May 2014 Cooperator

Vol. 88 No. 5 Countryside, IL 60525 www.cookcfb.org May 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 MonthWhat are male chickens called?

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.

April’s winner is Leonard Stein.

Last Month’s Question: When do we celebrate Earth Day?

Answer: April 22nd

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

& events

A large team of Master Gardeners have volunteered to staff the office Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am to 1pm through November 14th. They are located inside the CCFB office suite located at 6438 Joliet Rd in Countryside. You can reach a master gardener by calling (708)354-3276 or by email at mastergardener@

cookcfb.org 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. The program is a collaborative effort between CCFB and the Cook County University of Illinois Extension Service.

FARMLAND Documentary

Premieres More than a year in-the-making, the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance (USFRA) privately premiered a new documentary in April in Washington, D.C. to offer the first, unrestricted viewing of a documentary it funded that follows the fortunes and

misfortunes of six farmers and ranchers. Illinois Farm Bureau, along with beef, corn, dairy, pork and soybean organizations that make up the Illinois Farm Families program, has been working with U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance (USFRA) to organize the Illinois premiere of “Farmland.” USFRA, a national organization that includes Illinois Farm Bureau, the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) and some 80-plus other state Farm Bureaus and other commodity and ag-related organizations, funded “Farmland” in an effort to step up dialogue with consumers about today’s agriculture. James Moll, a filmmaker who has won Oscar and Emmy awards for previous documentaries, followed 20-something farmers and ranchers for a year, documenting weather challenges, decision-making, family strife and why they do what they do.The documentary features farmers from California, Colorado, Georgia, Minnesota, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Texas. While Moll didn’t include any farmers from Illinois, Lee County farmer Katie Pratt, who serves as one of four USFRA Faces of Farming & Ranching, believes the “Unvarnished look at what life is on a farm” will generate healthy discussion between farmers and consumers.“When I saw the film, I felt validated in a way,” Said Pratt, who farms with her family near Dixon. “I felt like, ‘Yes. That is it.’ They captured, on camera, what it is to be a farmer. I felt it validated what we do, our livelihood, the profession we have chosen.” Highlights of the movie and additional information can be found online at FarmlandFilm.com.

14th Annual Food Checkout DayCook County Farm Bureau® and Ronald McDonald House Charities®

Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana Celebrate Food Checkout Day

Since 2001 the Cook County farmers and the Cook County Farm Bureau® have been celebrating Food Checkout Day. Food Checkout Day highlights the safe and nutritious food that local farmers grow while also drawing attention to those families who struggle to find solutions to feeding their families healthy

food on a tight budget. Through Farm Bureau’s partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana Farm Bureau members are able to assist families during the most difficult time of their lives, when their child is ill. Cook County Farm Bureau® members celebrate Food

Checkout Day by collecting food items, hosting a scavenger hunt and shopping spree to benefit local Ronald McDonald Houses and by encouraging farmers, Country Financial Agencies, 4-H members, and students to participate in a food drive.

Continued on Page 4.

Master Gardener Resource Center is now Open!

Farm Bureau volunteers, shopping spree participants and Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences FFA members load the trailer after this year’s Food Checkout Day shopping spree in Oak Lawn.

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 May 2014 2 Cook County Farm Bureau

On-Farm Antibiotics Use Antibiotics are primarily used for two purposes in livestock, one, to treat illness and two, to assist with animal growth. Common livestock illnesses include: mastitis, which is an infection of the mammary system in female cattle; respiratory illnesses or infections of the respiratory system; pneumonia; and conjunctivitis or pink eye. When using an antibiotic to treat an illness, farmers will follow strict guidelines regarding how long an animal has to be antibiotic-free before slaughter or before the milk can be shipped for human consumption. The “dry off” time will vary by antibiotic and by the guidelines established by the Food and Drug Administration. It is important to note that all meat products are antibiotic free because of strict guidelines, oversight, and testing. (Antibiotics in food will be discussed later this year.) Antibiotics are also used sub-therapeutically as a feed additive

to assist animals to put on more muscle or to prevent illnesses, including coccidiosis. One of the most common antibiotics used for animal growth is Rumensin®. Rumensin® can be used by farmers to improve feed efficiency or the rate that an animals’ digestive system changes food into muscle and to prevent and control certain illnesses, including coccidiosis. Coccidiosis is a disease of the digestive system. Farmers can also use Rumensin® in dairy cattle to increase milk efficiency. It is important to note that any antibiotics used as feed additives are approved by the Food and Drug Administration before reaching the market. The use of antibiotics as a growth promoter is under a great deal of scrutiny because of concerns about antibiotic resistant illnesses in humans. The concerns coupled with

difficulties tracking farmers’ use of antibiotics in livestock has led the FDA to consider phasing out the use of antibiotics for growth promotion. To date, the agency has received positive written commitments from 25 of 26 animal drug companies in response to their request. Over the course of the next three years, the proposed change would end the use of antibiotics as a growth promoter and require a prescription from a veterinarian to use an antibiotic to treat or prevent disease in their animals. The debate surrounding some farmers’ use of antibiotics is likely to continue until either conclusive evidence regarding the origin of antibiotic-resistant illnesses or guidance regarding antibiotic use in livestock is received. Antibiotics in meat will be discussed in July.

Sources:New York TimesFood and Drug AdministrationAnimal Health Institute

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 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 Kelli McSherry 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.

Farmer Values

The 2014 Cookfresh® Recipe Collection

Is Here!

The Commodities/Marketing Team’s 2014 Cookfresh Recipe Collection are 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 once available.

Two Cook County Farm Bureau leaders; James Bloomstrand (Board Member) and Karen Biernacki (Public Relations Team) successfully completed the 35th Agricultural Leaders of Tomorrow 2014 program. The program provided 80 hours

of comprehensive classroom instruction covering the areas of communication skills, political process, agricultural economics and global issues. The two leaders joined other members from area County Farm Bureaus to attend sessions in

Central Illinois. The skills and knowledge learned will be used in local organizational efforts as Cook County farm Bureau serves members and the Agricultural Organization. CCFB has had a total of 16 leaders graduate from the program since 1992.

Agricultural Leaders of Tomorrow

Karen Biernacki James Bloomstrand

As a farmer, I value the opportunity to be a stewart of the land and caring for my family, crops and livestock that lives upon it.

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

CCFB Board Member

How Do I Access My Member Codes on‐Line? 24 hour access is available to our members. For online coupons, discount codes and 800 numbers for reservations, please log in using the information found on the back of your member cards!

Back of member card: Front of member card:


Do you hear the shouting?

Don’t eat that!That food is poison!Ban it!Label now!

The food police are out in force again ready to share, whether you want to hear it or not, what you should and shouldn’t consume. These same food cops are shouting at legislators to ban and label and tax and restrict and require and the list goes on. Food has become a four letter word in some circles today. When did food become so complicated… So political… So decisive? Take GMO’s as an example. Sherman, let me take you back in the wayback machine… The ice age: humans ate random plants, animals when they could catch them, and bugs. These humans were quite pleased to do so. 10,000 BC: humans became farmers in an effort to enhance their ability to feed themselves…the world’s first industry began. Soon after 10,000 BC: farmers began selecting the most productive plants and seeds from their crops for improved production. And thus began Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO’s) Soon after 10,000 BC: humans were provided the opportunity to take up other professions and barter/buy food from the successful farmers… Enter a world of civilization! 1860s: Austrian monk Gregor Mendel introduced genes as a part of heredity as he tested garden peas. 1868: Friedrich Meischer discovered a substance called DNA (Deoxyribose Nucleic Acid) 1944 Oswald Avery identified

DNA as the carrier of molecular information. 1953 James Watson and Francis Crick described the double helix as the molecular shape of DNA. 1960s and 70s Norman Borlaug is credited with saving a billion people in Pakistan and India from starvation with his genetically enhanced wheat innovations. He won the Nobel Peace Prize, Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Congressional Medal of Honor and the Padma Vibhushan (India’s highest civilian honor). 1972: scientists developed techniques to cut and display strands of DNA at specific places in the sequence using an enzyme… Ultimately developing processes to help humanity through the production of insulin and human growth hormone. Since that time, US Agriculture has been able to produce more food on fewer acres in the United States to help feed a growing population domestically and throughout the world. So “Where’s the Beef”? Dr. Oz, Oprah, the news media, talk shows, food activist groups, and others are certainly helping keep the GMO in front of various audiences… As a result, It seems like I am constantly running into conversations, headlines, debates, and concerns over the topic of GMOs. People know that I am “that farm guy” and that I usually have an opinion. So, here is my opinion on the topic of GMOs. I like them. I like their taste, texture, nutritional value, shelf life, f lavor, economical value, and ability to enhance mankind. For those that preach Frankenfood, I have questions… Are you a doctor? Are you a scientist? Have you read the various studies that have been peer reviewed? Do you not trust the FDA, the United Nations World Health Organization, National Academy of Science, the Japan Food Safety Commission, Health Canada, and a host of other

organizations dedicated to the safety of food in the United States and to the world? I am not a doctor… Not a scientist… Not read every study on GMOs… However… I do have to trust my doctor regarding my health, my eye doctor regarding my vision, my dentist regarding oral care, and other specialists as necessary in life. There is a mass of information,

reams of pro-and con GMO, and opinions on every corner. It’s very easy to get confused and stressed by the amounts of messages on this topic. Therefore, I attempt to boil it down into simple concepts. Here’s my view…• All foods, crops and animals

are genetically modified and have been for thousands of years.

• Modern agricultural technology enhances this

modification process providing improved nutrition, greater food abundance, and wonderful affordability to a point that has never been seen before on this planet.

• GMOs are allowing in preventing worldwide starvation, malnutrition, and a host of preventable health pandemics, epidemics, and issues.

• Farmer’s ability to produce more food using existing land for production has protected and prevented the deforestation of millions of acres of rain forests and sensitive ecological areas around the world.

• I want affordable, plentiful, tasty food with plenty of selection and choice.

Therefore, I love GMOs. There, I said it…arrest me.

Downwindby Bob Rohrer, Manager

Food Police

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

Your Orland Park Agency! 9731 W 165th St Ste 36Orland Park, IL 60467

708-226-1111

AUTO | HOME | L IFE | HEATH | D ISABIL ITY INCOME UNIVERSAL L IFE | COMPLETE INSURANCE SERVICE

Cary Tate708-226-1111 Agency ManagerOrland Park, IL

Mike Skrabis708-226-1666 9731 W 165th St

Orland Park, IL

Dan Stumpf 708-614-1688

17605 S Oak Tinley Park, IL

Mike Thauer 708-425-1559 2835 W 95th St

Evergreen Park, IL

Mark Wright708-403-2416 8760 W 159th St

Orland Park, IL

George Parthemore 708-226-1896 9432 W 143rd St

Orland Park, IL

Terry LaMastus708-754-5900

3308 Chicago RdSteger, IL

Bill Thompson 708-361-1304

12130 S Harlem AvePalos Heights, IL

Tony Palumbo708-403-5708 8760 W 159th St

Orland Park, IL

Erica Storrs-Gray 708-671-1465

12130 S Harlem AvePalos Heights, IL

Dean Reszel708-478-3136

11056 W 179th StOrland Park, IL

John Piazza630-257-6100 106 Stephen St

Lemont, IL

Mike Spadoni708-425-1825 2835 W 95th St

Evergreen Park, IL

Joe Voves 708-425-1527 2835 W 95th St

Evergreen Park, IL

Nick Burke708-425-1816 2835 W 95th St

Evergreen Park, IL

Bob Johnson 708-429-9422

17605 S Oak ParkOrland Park, IL

Thomas Geraghty708-425-9700 5003 W 95th St

Oak Lawn, IL

Jim Andresen708-633-6490

17605 S Oak Park AveTInley Park, IL

Piero Setta708-226-0431 8760 W 159th St

Orland Park, IL

0414-516HO

Jonathan Caldwell708-478-7337

Associate ManagerOrland Park, IL

Nora Beverly 708-226-1111 9731 W. 165th St

Orland Park, IL

Chicago South Country Financial Agents once again claimed the “Tipping the Scales” trophy as part of Cook CFB’s 14th Annual Food Checkout Day celebration to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. The event raised over 9,000 pounds of food, of which the Chicago South Country Financial Agency brought in 25 percent of that amount! Food and cash donations combined will feed over 2,500 people. Pictured left to right are: Jim Gutzmer, Cook CFB President and Marc Rogala, Chicago South Agency Manager.


History of Food

Asparagus: A Spring Time Favorite Once considered a member of the lily family, like the Alliums, asparagus is now classified as a vegetable, all on its own. Asparagus is a late spring flowering perennial that is native to most of Europe, northern Africa, and Western Asia. Asparagus dates back to 3000 BC where it’s pictured as on offering on an Egyptian frieze. In ancient times, Greeks and Romans consumed it fresh or dried it for use in winter. Modern asparagus is consumed in many different ways, including stir-fried in Asian-style cooking or fried with chicken, shrimp or beef in Cantonese-style restaurants. Asparagus can also be grilled or added to stews and soups.

Oven Roasted Asparagus (recipe from allrecipes.com)Ingredients:1 bunch thin asparagus spears, trimmed 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 ½ tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)1 clove garlic, minced (optional)1 teaspoon sea salt½ teaspoon ground black pepper1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

DirectionsPreheat an oven to 425º F (220 degrees C). Place the asparagus into a mixing bowl, and drizzle with the olive oil. Toss to coat the spears, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Arrange the asparagus onto a baking sheet in a single layer.Bake in the preheated oven until just tender, 12 to 15 minutes depending on thickness.Sprinkle with lemon juice just before serving.

FootnotesTo remove woody ends, grab stalk of asparagus at either end and bend until it snaps. It will naturally snap where it starts to get tough.

Ask a “Bee Guy or Gal”... Member, Bob, from Lemont, IL submitted the following bee/honey question that he wanted answered:Question: How will the severe winter affect the area honey bee population?

Answer: I would assume it would be relatively stable when compared to recent years. The reason is most beekeepers repopulate their winter dead-outs with bees from California and Georgia. They can also split surviving hives later in the spring to replace dead hives. The numbers of hives may be about the same due to repopulation by the beekeeper - there could be the possibility that the beekeeper could not get enough bees to replace those that did not survive, due to demand. If that was the case I suppose it could affect the number of crops that need pollination, in turn affecting our food supply. I don’t know the actual numbers, but I would guess the number of hives in the area by midsummer 2014 will be similar to midsummer 2013. As for how harsh this winter may have been for the bees, I believe this winter was very difficult for them in the Chicagoland area. The prolonged cold kept them cooped up in the hive and didn’t allow for many cleansing flights all winter long. The prolonged colder temperatures also meant faster consumption of the bee’s honey stores in the hive, which unfortunately leads to starvation in the hive. There are groups that tally winter mortality rates across the country. Those results are not typically available until later in the year but I have been hearing about big losses in local apiaries.

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!

Continued from Page 1. As part of Food Checkout Day, Farm Bureau sponsors a shopping spree at JEWEL-OSCO® on South Pulaski in Oak Lawn. Representatives from the local fire and police departments will race against each other to collect the most non-perishable food items. Additionally, members of the Cook County Farm Bureau®, Cook County 4-H programs, County Financial Agencies, and schools donated food, pop tabs, and money to RMHC® CNI, recognizing the need everyone has to find solutions to feeding families healthful foods on a tight budget. “We really like to get the community involved with

Food Checkout Day,” said Janet McCabe, Public Relations Team Chairwoman. “This year we’re fortunate to have dignitaries, local celebrities, fire and police departments, FFA members from the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences and various sponsors involved in this year’s Food Checkout Day celebration.” Food Checkout Day is in cooperation with the Illinois Corn Marketing Board®/Illinois Corn Growers Association®. In 2012, Cook County Farm Bureau®’s annual Food Checkout Day program was named a Summit Award winner by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). The Summit Award

recognizes the positive impact that associations have on their community. Cook County Farm Bureau® is a member driven organization that seeks to serve all members with meaningful and beneficial programs that reflect the area’s agricultural heritage. Ronald McDonald House® provides a “home-away-from-home” for families of seriously ill children receiving medical treatment in the Chicagoland area. The food will be used to help feed families staying at the house. For over a decade, the Cook County Farm Bureau® has held a benefit for the Ronald McDonald Houses® Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana to celebrate Food Checkout Day. This year’s Food Checkout Day event was held on March 20th, 2014.

Food Checkout Day

Oak Lawn Fire and Police helped to fill Ronald McDonald House pantries at this year’s shopping spree in Oak Lawn. All items purchased benefited the charity.Cook CFB President James Gutzmer (pictured center) presents Doug Porter (pictured right),

Chief Executive Officer for Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, and Ronald McDonald (pictured left) with an $18,211 donation for this year’s Food Checkout Day celebration. The final donation amount, including checks received after the event was over $19,600 from members, leaders, sponsors and supporters. A huge thank you goes out to everyone who donated their time, talent, cash or food to this year’s event.

Beekeeper Marge Trocki prepares to transfer new bees into their “bee box” to live and make honey during a demonstration on April 15 at the Farm Bureau.

left: A number of beginning beekeepers (Tony Munno pictured here) received shipment on April 15th as a part of their group order through the Beginning Beekeeping course held at the Cook County Farm Bureau.

2014 TotalsCash donations: $19,711Food donations: 9,091 pounds848 people fed!

Total Donations since 2001$67,77349,715 lbs of food

Sponsors and partners:Jewel-OscoDominick’s Potash CorpAmerican Agricultural Insurance Company Illinois Corn Growers Association® Jim and Esther GoebertPrairie Farms Dairy Joe and Janet McCabe Kopping Farms Andrew and Beverly Smithberger IAA Credit Union Robert and Jayne Rohrer Bob Smith with the South Holland Country Financial Agency Ted’s Greenhouse Jack Smith with the Schaumburg Country Financial Agency James and Karen Gutzmer Jose Martinez from the Chicago South Country Financial Agency Paul and Gertrude Lill

School food drive participants:Southwest ElementaryMost Holy RedeemerJohn Dore ElementarySt. Germaine ElementarySt. Rita High SchoolProviso West High School Key ClubFairview ElementaryHaugan ElementaryEast Leyden High SchoolGlenbrook ElementaryJohn Hersey High School

The food drive raised 4,844 pounds of food.

Additional food drive participants: Forestview 4-H Club

The 4-H food drive raised 405 pounds of food.

Country Financial involvement:Countryside Rolling MeadowsSchaumburgSouth HollandNorthshoreChicago SouthChicago NorthOrland Park.

Clients and agents contributed 2,195 pounds of food and $2,461 in cash donations.

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


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.


The Board of Directors of the Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation has selected 10 individuals as recipients of the 2014-2015 Scholarship Program. Steven Zary of Elk Grove Village was awarded the Howard Paarlberg Excellence in Agriculture Scholarship for $2,500; Alyssa Volland of Tinley Park was awarded $2,000; Noelle Thompson of Tinley Park received $2,000; Robert Schabes of Orland Park was awarded $1,750; Kayla Smits of Chicago Heights received $1,750; Devan Groves of Cary received $1,000; Jessica Biernacki of Tinley Park received $1,000; Kelsey Macke of Arlington Heights received $1,000; Katherine Manika of North Riverside received $1,000.Thomas Poole of Chicago was selected to receive the CONSERV FS FFA Scholarship for $1,500. This special award, funded through a grant to the Foundation by the CCFB affiliated FS Company, is offered to Cook County high school seniors participating in an approved FFA program. The scholarships are applied to fees and tuition of the recipients’ college or university in the pursuit of agriculturally related careers. Howard Paarlberg Excellence in Agriculture Scholarship

Steven ZaryThe recipient of the award designed to honor Mr. Paarlberg, the first President of

the Foundation and President of the Farm Bureau for 16 years, was designed as the top rated applicant carrying the prestige of being the best candidate and a greater financial reward for the individual.Steven Zary attends University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine where he is a Veterinary Medicine major. Zary is focused on a career as a veterinarian, providing support in the areas of agriculture and agribusiness. His career choice is enhanced by his work at Hoffman Estates Animal Hospital and at the Illinois Equine Field Service. His active participation on campus and within the community coupled with outstanding grades and honors contributed to his high marks for the award. Steven is the son of Michael and Joanna Zary of Elk Grove Village.

General Ag Career Focused Scholarship Recipients

Jessica BiernackiJessica attends the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana where she is an

Agricultural Leadership Education major. Jessica has grown up in her family’s greenhouse business and has taken on many responsibilities at the greenhouse. Jessica recently volunteered her time for the Annual Ronald McDonald Food Checkout Day, the Ronald McDonald rooftop garden and as a CCFB Ag in the class volunteer. Her goal is to work in the area of Agricultural Education, Training and Literacy. Jessica is the daughter of Dan and Karen Biernacki of Tinley Park.

Devan GrovesGroves is a senior at Cary-Grove High School. She will be attending Oklahoma

State University with a major in Pre-Veterinary with an Animal Science focus. Since a young age, Devan aspired to become an equine vet and it’s been her passion for horses that has pushed her to follow through with her dream. Devan wishes to specialize in sports medicine not only because of her background with sport horses, but also because it entails job variation as well as new technological advances and room to consistently learn more. Devan is the daughter of Robert and Anna Lester of Cary.

Kelsey MackeMacke is a senior at John Hersey High School. Macke is attending Illinois

State University with a major in Pre-Veterinary Medicine. It has been a lifelong dream for Kelsey to be a small animal veterinarian by making a difference in the animal community. Kelsey has a strong interest in horses and has been riding for nine years. She plans to continue riding and caring for them the rest of her life and plans to continue her love of partaking in horse shows. Kelsey is the daughter of Ed and Kathleen Macke of Arlington Heights.

Katherine ManikaManika is a senior at Queen of Peace High School. Manika is currently undecided on

what college she will be attending but plans to study Pre-Veterinary/Biology. Katherine is currently enrolled in the Veterinary Mentoring Program in partnership with the Anti-cruelty Society in Chicago. Being in that program has taught her about ag sciences, equine studies and different type of surgeries. The program has also reassured her love for animals and wanting to become a vet to help not only animals but people as well. Katherine is the daughter of Colleen Manika of North Riverside.

Robert SchabesRobert attends Illinois State University majoring in Agriculture Business. He earned

an associate’s degree from Joliet Junior College. This degree will help accomplish his goal of owning his own farm. He will be seeking a agricultural production consulting career in the short term as he moves towards his farming goal. His first experience working with a combine came with his internship at Schwanke Harvesting Company in Kansas. Robert is the son of Bob and Christine Schabes of Orland Park.

Kayla SmitsKayla attends Calvin College where she will have a Business Marketing major. When

Kayla was eleven she started working at her family farm, where she started as a helper in their greenhouse and farm stand. Currently she works in the greenhouse selling flowers

and training younger employees. Kayla plans on using her business marketing knowledge to continue to help Smits Farm grow into a more advanced and more profitable business. Kayla is the daughter of Carl and Debra Smits of Chicago Heights.

Noelle ThompsonNoelle attends the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana where she is an Animal

Sciences major. Her goal is to work in specially agricultural animal husbandry in a well-respected zoo or out in the wild doing research. Her love of animals and their well-being is the driving force behind her decision of providing a quality life for sheltered animals. Noelle volunteers for Animals for Awareness and throughout high school was active in Soccer, Science Club and president of the Ecology Club. Noelle is the daughter of Thomas and Kimberly Thompson of Tinley Park.

Alyssa VollandVolland attends University of Illinois with a major in Pre-Veterinary/Animal Science and minor in Chemistry. Ever since Alyssa was assigned a career project in High School she knew that she wanted to be a veterinarian. The project made her aware of how demanding and competitive the career is and that attracted her even more to be a vet. Alyssa is the daughter of Randal and Lisa Volland of Tinley Park.CONSERV FS FFA ScholarshipThe CONSERV FS FFA Scholarship is offered to high school seniors participating in an approved FFA Program. The objective of this scholarship is to increase and broaden student and parent awareness of Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation programming, and provide incentive to high school students to seek a career in agriculture. The $1,500 scholarship recipient is Thomas Poole of Chicago.

Thomas PoolePoole is a senior at the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences. He has been a member of the FFA Program and an active

member of the CHSAS Horticulture Greenhouse Team. Poole is attending University of Illinois with a major in Crop Sciences. He seeks to help integrate the world of agriculture and the environment is urban areas as a career. Poole is the son of Thomas and Susan Poole of Chicago.The Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation was established by the Cook County Farm Bureau to carry out charitable, literary and educational work in Agriculture. The Foundation Board established the Agricultural Scholarship Program to provide financial assistance to students pursuing education for agricultural careers and to encourage the best and brightest young minds to return to Agriculture as their chosen career.James Gutzmer, President of the Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation, says, “We commend each of the scholarship winners for the quality applications submitted. We congratulate these young agricultural leaders of tomorrow and we wish them the best in their academic studies and in their pursuit of ag-related careers.”

CCFB Foundation Scholar Winners Announced

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AITC

Agricultural Literacy& Public Relations

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

This last month Ag in the Classroom has been filled with special moments with the children of Cook County.

Let me provide a few “Ag Lit Bits” direct from the mouths of the youth who participated in our spring programming.

Ag Day 2014 student feedback (3rd grade): What did you learn? Worms have no eyes or ears, 5 hearts and 2 stomachs. It takes 21 days for a chick to hatch. Worm poop is good for soil. Goats eat anything…even nametags! Shampoo, paint brushes, candles, buttons and crayons are made from pigs. In the winter pigs have the temperature turned up high and in the summer they have fans and water. The stages of development for chicks. That agriculture is food, clothes, shelter. How eggs are graded. Only female cows give milk. Illinois grows a lot of soybeans. I learned popcorn is the state snack. That soy beans are in most of the products we have. Corn has 800 kernels on one cob. That field corn/dent corn is the most popular kind. Lemons come from lemon trees. That pig hairs are in a brush. We thought that was disgusting! What could we have done better? Let us ride the horses. I think it’s all great and you did good. Add more time. I don’t think you have to change anything. Nothing, it was the best field trip ever. You could make the worm bins bigger. In the pork station, they could have had all pink pigs. What are you going to tell your family about agriculture? That it is like a blanket or a home.

Agriculture means giving food to the poor. I am going to tell them that raising animals can be hard at times. I am going to tell them that Illinois grew the most soy beans this year. Spearmint leaves smell like gum. I got to hold a chick. How good lemon leaves smell. That pigs are used for a lot. Embryology is the study of eggs. I will tell them about everything.

4th Grade “In-School Field Trip:• I learned what you can make

out of corn, agriculture and agribusiness and that red and purple tortilla chips are made out of red and purple corn. I would have never thought of that!

• What really fascinated me was that soybeans, wheat and all the other seeds can turn into a lot of daily products.

• Farming can be a lot of work. I almost feel bad for the people in the 1900’s. That must have been a lot of work with no machines. We are lucky.

• I learned that gasoline can be made from corn. Who knew?!

• An interesting thing I learned is that crops like pumpkins or pineapples are called specialty crops.

• This was a great experience for me, now I can go home and tell my parents all about agriculture.

• I loved how you even had games for us to play. You actually made my day!

• I thought your presentation was going to be boring, but you proved me wrong.

• I want to thank you for coming to our class. I am sure you had better things to do. I appreciate all the work you put into it.

Why is Ag in the Classroom important? Need I say more?

Career Corner Ag careers include jobs in technology and this month we will meet Doug Yunker who enters the field of Technical Systems Management when he joins a John Deere dealership in Manteno as Integrated Solutions Specialist.

What would someone want to know about this career choice before deciding upon it?I would like to tell them that the agricultural industry has endless job opportunities. There is literally any job for someone with any type of interests. You don’t have to want to be a farmer or come from a farm to study agriculture. Choosing Technical Systems Management opens up a lot of doors in the agricultural industry. This major allows the student to choose a variety of agricultural mechanization, crops sciences, agricultural business, and farm management classes to match his or her career aspirations.

How did you get your job? Any tips for job searches?I was able to lock in my job by networking with as many people as I could that were involved in agriculture. Even if you are unsure of exactly what path you want to go down, having a good network of people in the

agricultural industry will help obtaining a job or internship. Campus career fairs are a great way to meet recruiters from top companies in agriculture and develop relationships. Also, try to visit with as many companies as possible throughout your college career. This again helps build relationships with representatives in the company.

What classes or experiences in high school led you to this major?In high school, I had the opportunity to be involved with agricultural groups such as Future Farmers of America (FFA). Through this experience, I was able to learn more about many aspects of agriculture from parts of a small engine to how to survey agricultural land; furthermore, I gained experience leading a group and was able to make lifelong friends. I also was my involved in Skills USA, a vocational skills competition. I competed at the state and national level in the power equipment technology

division, which required students to solve a variety of problems associated with small engines. Skills USA definitely helped me to expand my problem solving skills, which has proven to be very useful throughout my college career as well as for my future in the agricultural industry. I also took automotive maintenance and repair classes in high school. All of these experiences thoroughly prepared me for a successful journey through the University of Illinois.

Why would you recommend ag as a career in 2014 and beyond?The future for the agricultural industry is very bright. Many people are required to supply the food, fiber, and fuel for the United States and the world. As you may know, the population of the world is project to increase to around 9 billion people by 2050. This increase in population will require even more food, fiber, and fuel to supply. To achieve this, higher yields and better practices will necessitate many people to be involved in careers in agriculture. I am very excited to enter my career in agriculture and am excited for what the future holds!

In honor of National Ag Day, we hosted two Ag Day events in March and April. Ag Day gives students the opportunity to experience agriculture firsthand at one of two venues: Chicago High School for Ag Sciences and Volkening Heritage Farm. Children learned about Illinois’ top commodities such as corn and soybeans and learned the importance of farmers in providing safe, abundant and affordable products. Students rotated through eight learning stations in two hours and left with information to take back to their schools and homes. An army of volunteers enabled us to host 800

children at our Ag Day events in Cook County. Thanks to Chris and Mike Garvey and Charlotte Sellers, who spent many hours preparing materials for students and teachers. Additionally, we would like to thank our board and committee members, American Ag Insurance in Schaumburg, University of IL-Extension staff and volunteers, the staff and students of Chicago High School for Ag Sciences , the staff and volunteers of Volkening Heritage Farms in Schaumburg, the IL Pork Producers, Fair Oaks Dairy, IL Soybean Association, Nutrients for Life, and the Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation for funding our Ag Days.

Students hold a baby chick at the embryology station

Man that Ag day is exhausting! Students enjoyed petting the horses at the high school

Kits, Chicks and more!Spring is finally here and we are beginning to witness the wonders of the season. Who doesn’t enjoy watching the bulbs begin to pop out of the ground and spread a blanket of color across our dreary gardens? The trees are also popping with buds and birds are filling the branches again. The other sign of spring we are experiencing is the constant flow of Embryology Learning Kits and Incubators flying out of our Ag Literacy area. The calls began in January, when teachers from grades Pre-K through high school started reserving our Embryology Kits to use in the spring with their students. Although we equate chicks with spring, we have these available all year long. Wouldn’t it be great to start your school year off with this topic to fully engage your classroom right in September? Think about stopping by this summer to check out all of the kits available such as our mAGic kits including Plant Science, Soil Science and Dairy Science. If you are gearing up for Next Generation Science and need STEM ideas, these kits are ideal. Our Illinois Kit is our most popular, so we have added a second one to our inventory. Teachers who focus on younger students may enjoy our Adventures Around the Farm or Seasons on the Farm Kits. Visit www.cookcfb.org and go to Teacher Resources to learn more.

Ag Days 2014“Agriculture Celebrated by Cook County Schools”

Local Schools Combine Efforts Generosity (also called largess or largesse) is the habit of giving without expecting anything in return. It can involve offering time, assets or talents to aid someone in need. Often equated with charity as a virtue, generosity is widely accepted in society as a desirable trait. (Wikepedia) What do you get when you combine the efforts of 11 schools and thousands of community members to donate food and pop tabs for our 4th annual school food drive? 4,976 pounds of food (and tabs) to stock the shelves at our local Ronald McDonald Houses! A huge thank you goes out to the following schools for their generosity once again this year. We loved how schools got creative aligning their drives to themes such as “Have a Heart” or “Dress Down Day”, where students at St. Rita who donated at least three items were able to participate in a dress down Friday (no uniforms). Their result was a donation of over 1,300 pounds of food in one day! Our 2014 schools were:Most Holy Redeemer, Evergreen Park Southwest School, Evergreen ParkJohn C Dore, Chicago St. Germaine, Oak LawnSt. Rita of Cascia High School, Chicago Fairview Elementary, Mt. ProspectHaugan School, Chicago Glenbrook Elementary, StreamwoodProviso West High School, Hillside East Leyden High School, Franklin ParkJohn Hersey High School, Arlington Heights


National Egg Month 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

Breeds Carton Chicken Cholesterol Deviled Dozen Fertilized Fried Grade Hen

X J E D G N B D H V D C Y Y C

Z O W M E R E R X E Z W N K H

L Q W Z E V V R Z X G E G C I

O C O E I Y N I E T O R P T C

R D D L I T L C T T H P P K K

E S E U Z I A K A A S E L Q E

T D U D T L Y Y M R M O N U N

S Y N R B A I H A Q T I O Y B

E O E S S U N B Y T B O N R E

L F S B H Q G L L E H S N S D

O I O W H J P L P M N C L R A

H W R K F I F G K Q X O O K R

C F Z H J G K Z W I E S Q L G

S C R A M B L E D C B H W Z G

R B Q N D B Q U U D Z V Q F U

L W I Z L K L D R H E Y O L K

K I U C Y Z O G T Z W I S D O

H K P D A R Z S M F C K R K N

X C H M P Y E L L O W V H F C

D S H M B B G N F U M Z T V V

Laying Produce Protein Quality Rooster Scrambled Shell Vitamins Yellow Yolk

Last month’s winner of four movie tickets was : Jim Perez

Could you be next?!

The simplicity of this small but giant food source has made its mark with food holiday history. The entire month of May is dedicated to the many virtues of nature’s own miracle food, the egg. Eggs provide high-quality protein, containing all the essential amino acids our bodies need in a near-perfect pattern. In fact, the quality of egg protein is so high that scientists frequently use eggs as the standard for measuring the protein quality of other foods.

Eggs are a popular and versatile staple in many homes. People have been enjoying eggs since 1400 BC. When Christopher Columbus sailed the oceans blue he transported chickens to America from Asia. These chickens sole purpose was the production of eggs. Americans eat an average of 250 eggs yearly. The United States produces ten percent of the eggs in the world which total over 75 billion eggs!

Chickens raised for their meat are called broilers or fryers. Male chickens are called roosters. They have larger combs and wattles than hens and their feathers are more colorful. Chickens swallow their food without chewing it and then it is ground up in their gizzard. Chickens need grit in their diet to produce eggs. Some examples of breeds of chickens are White Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, Plymouth Rock, Polish, Sussex and Cochin.

The Hen: “Eggs”pert Producer

Most of the eggs we eat come from chick-ens. Hens are female chickens. Hens lay eggs. It’s an all day event for a chicken to make an egg and lay it.

1. The hen is hatched with many tiny yolks in her body. One at a time, these will grow to full size. 2. When a yolk comes to full size, it is released into a long tube called an oviduct. This release takes about 14 minutes. 3. As the yolk moves, a thick white layer of albu-men also known as the egg white, is placed around it. This takes about 3 hours. 4. The next stage takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Water is added to the albumen to form a thin layer of white. 5. The formation of the egg shell is the last and longest step. This step can take as long as 20 hours. Pigment is added to the shell at the very end of this step making the egg shell white,

Materials: One hard cooked egg, white vinegar, and a plastic container with a lid. 1. Without breaking the shell, examine the

hard-cooked egg carefully. Record visual observations.

2. Place the egg in a plastic container. Cover completely with white vinegar and seal with lid. Predict what will happen in one hours, one day, and one week. Record predictions.

3. Observe the egg at the indicated times and record observations. The egg shell should have dissolved and the egg white and yolk should have become rubbery. After rinsing and drying the egg, record what happens when it is dropped. It should bounce.

Note: do not eat the eggs. Wash your hands after each observation.

Egg Trivia About 278 million laying hens produce approximately 6.1 billion dozen eggs per year in the United States. Illinois is ranked 25th for egg production among the United States. During the spring equinox (usually around March 21) an egg will stand on its small end. How “eggs”traordinary! The largest single chicken egg ever laid weighed one pound with a double yolk and double shell. A hen requires 24 to 26 hours to produce an egg. Eggs age more in one day at room temperature than in one week in the refrigerator. Egg yolks are one of the few foods that naturally contain Vitamin D. Eggs contain the highest quality food protein known. They also contain 13 essential vitamins and minerals.

It’s in the Yolk…

The yolk is the major source of vitamins, minerals and fat from the egg. It also contains about half of the protein. Some egg yolks are more yellow than others because...you are what you eat. Hens that eat feed containing yellow corn and alfalfa meal lay eggs with medium yellow yolks, while those hens eating wheat or barley lay eggs with lighter colored yolks.

When you eat a large egg, you get:

75 calories & some of these Vitamins... Vitamins A, D, E, B12, Biotin, Choline,

Folate, Niacin, B3, B6, B2 & B1 and Minerals….

Calcium, Copper, Iron, Zinc, Sodium, Magnesium, Phosphorus,

Potassium & Sulfur

*Information provided by Illinois Ag Mags: Poultry and the Colorado Reader.


Different life on a common road

We drove our farm pickup truck to within 30 minutes of downtown Chicago. It was the necessary vehicle to haul a gas-powered pressure washer, step ladder, tool chest and chainsaw into the heart of the suburbs of the nation’s third-largest city. Our road-trip helped relatives revitalize the porch and landscaping of their new home. Upon arrival, we owned the only four-wheel drive vehicle in the neighborhood with traces of mud on the tires. “(Grumble, grumble) … Chicago,” my husband snarled, gripping the wheel to navigate the truck through city traffic.To clarify, “Chicago” in this context represents anything north of Joliet. The definition proves inaccurate in most every circumstance, including on maps and via the area’s residents themselves. They probably like that catch-all definition as much as we enjoy the term “downstate” over here in West-Central Illinois. He snarled again, something about more toll booths closed than open. He made some references to Walmart checkout lanes. I laughed and reminded him: “We are in a minority. More than 80 percent of Americans live in cities.” But I admit that he and I share similar viewpoints. I also become uncomfortable when I cannot see the horizon and must navigate congested traffic and aggressive drivers. We like to stretch our arms, monitor the life

cycle of field corn, fish in solitude and see only distant taillights. I can’t speak for the opposite end of the spectrum but figure even the most urban of residents share a similar connection and passion about their places of dwelling. Country and city people live differently, yet I’ve learned we are a lot alike. We fill life with goals and aspirations. We enjoy food and its comforting rituals. We speak the same language, except for the time of day “dinner” starts. (Did you mean supper?) And we share intentions to provide our kids with a childhood chockfull of love, happy memories and healthy life experiences. In the end, our household is fortunate to experience the extremes and earn a greater awareness of our place and purpose. With the suburban home improvement projects complete, my husband, the kids and I headed southward. He sighed and welcomed familiar sights of home. “Yes! Brush instead of buildings,” he joked as we reached the stretch of Interstate 80 west of Joliet. The traffic became less congested. Yet, it still exceeded the probably 10 vehicles that pass our house in a weekday. And that counts the school bus – both morning and afternoon.

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.

You’ve spent many years planning for retirement and since that time is finally near, you may wonder where to invest your money and whether or not your savings will last through retirement. Many

newly-retired investors think switching to a conservative investment approach is best. However, the growth of your savings after retirement is just as important as when you first started saving. According to the most recent information from the U.S. Census Bureau, the average retirement age is 62. 1 The National Center for Health Statistics indicates that men have an average life expectancy of age 76 and women have an average life expectancy of 81.2 Since both men and women can expect to live many years after retirement, it’s important to keep retirement savings growing so they will last throughout retirement. Making the wrong investment choices could endanger your long-term financial security. That’s why it’s important to seek advice from a qualified professional. A professional can help you determine the best way to manage your portfolio during retirement, including re-evaluating your investment strategy and selecting an appropriate amount of income to withdraw each year.

What investment strategy should I consider? Many financial planners suggest new retirees stay with a diversified asset mix that includes a substantial percentage of stock investments. This is important because over time, inflation can have a crippling effect on retirement savings. For example, even at a relatively low 3 percent annual inflation rate, a $40,000 retirement spending goal today will become a $54,000 retirement spending goal in 10 years.

Although stocks and stock mutual funds are riskier than other investment types, these investments can increase your potential for portfolio growth and help counter the effects of inflation.

Develop a plan to spend investment assets New retirees should focus on developing a plan for spending investment assets. When determining the amount of money to withdraw from your retirement plan each year, consider your goals. For example, do you want to leave an inheritance or conserve assets for later in retirement? Choose a practical annual draw (the amount you decide to withdraw each year) and be prepared to change that amount as your investment returns fluctuate. For example, if you experience good investment results early in retirement, you may decide to spend more. But if the market declines, you may need to take less from your portfolio to conserve assets for later. Even during retirement your investment choices are as important as when you first began to save. Keeping a diversified portfolio that will grow faster than the rate of inflation and choosing an appropriate amount for an annual draw will help preserve your assets for many years. Talk to a COUNTRY Financial representative for help in determining an investment plan tailored to meet your retirement needs.3

(Endnotes)

1 U.S. Census Bureau, 2010.2 U.S. National Center for Health Statistics, 2010.3 Investment management, retirement, trust and planning services provided by COUNTRY Trust Bank,® a part of COUNTRY® Financial, Bloomington, Ill. Products of COUNTRY Trust Bank are not FDIC insured, not guaranteed and may lose value.

“From the Country”Retirement With Income Investments

Joe YoungmanAgency Manager

Chicago NE Agency

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Mary Jane AlaghebandEvanston

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PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE

Manifolds, Manolos, and Manure The March Primary brought with it not only semi-tolerable weather but the lowest Cook County voter turnout since 1998. Only 16

percent of both Cook County and Chicago voters braved the semi-chilly weather to cast votes for everything from Governor to Cook County Board and Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. To those who voted, thank you for the ten or so minutes it took you to cast your ballot and thank you for shaping the future of Illinois and Cook County. Of the Primary Election’s few surprises, perhaps the most notable was incumbent State Representative Maria “Toni” Berrios’ loss to 26 year-old, newcomer Will Guzzardi. According to her father and Cook County Democratic Party Chairman, Joe Berrios Guzzardi’s win was due to the changing

demographics of the District not his old school, wheeling and dealing political style or the fact that the Cook County Board of Ethics has filed a lawsuit against him. In 2012, J. Berrios was ordered to pay a $10,000 fine imposed by the Ethics Board after the Board determined that he violated the County’s anti-nepotism laws by hiring his sister and son shortly after assuming the Assessor’s office in 2010. It’s relevant to note that J. Berrios didn’t hire his sister; she was already employed by the Assessor’s Office when he assumed the post but he did immediately promote her and give her a $10,000-a-year raise. Since being ordered to pay the fine and to terminate his family members, J. Berrios has stated that the County’s Ethics Ordinance does not apply to him. It’s important to note that Representative Toni Berrios is a repeat Friend of Agriculture award recipient and is a member of the Farm Bureau’s Adopt-a-Legislator® program. In other election night news, although

Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle ran unopposed in the March Primary, three of her charges suffered defeats. In the race for Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, newcomer, urban planner Josina Morita who received $5,000 from the Preckwinkle for President campaign fund came in fourth in a ten man race to fill three seats. Leading the way was incumbent Commissioners Cynthia Santos and Frank Avila followed by Tim Bradford. Morita received 14 percent of the vote compared to Santos and Avila’s 18 percent of the vote. Morita was endorsed by the Cook County Farm Bureau® Political Action Committee as was Santos. Preckwinkle also contributed the maximum, $52,500 allowed under Cook County’s ordinance to incumbent Commissioner Edwin Reyes. Reyes was appointed after then-Commissioner Roberto Maldonado was appointed Chicago Alderman just prior to one of several votes to repeal the 2008 Stroger sales tax hike. Reyes worked tirelessly on public safety issues and

was named a Cook County Farm Bureau® Friend of the Farm Bureau in 2012. Reyes’ lost to Luis Arroyo Jr. Preckwinkle’s final upset was the loss of Blake Seryce in the open seat race for Cook County Board District 1. Both Preckwinkle and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel endorsed Seryce over four others in the five way race to replace Commissioner Earlean Collins who has been threatening to retire for ages. Seryce, who was endorsed by the Cook County Farm Bureau® Political Action Committee lost to Richard Boykin, Congressmen Danny Davis’ former legislative director. While Preckwinkle contributed to Morita, Reyes, and Sercye’s races, she did not run their races and; therefore, had no control of the outcome of the races. However, it’s a tedious position to be in for an individual supposedly considering a run to unseat Chicago Mayor Emanuel. More on that at a different time …

By Bona Heinsohn

Policy Question of the MonthName a tentative stop for this year’s Cook County

Staff Exchange Program.

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.

APRIL’S WINNER for the Public Policy Question of the Month was Colleen Manika. Congratulations!

April’s question: Who did Cook CFB meet with during the Statewide Legislative Reception in Springfield in February?Answers: Cook CFB met with State Representative Marcus Evans and Jaimie Andrade during the Statewide Legislative Reception in Springfield in February.

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.

Governor Quinn Announces his Budget PlansCook County Staff Exchange 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 government staff. The program will provide County staff with an enhanced understanding of Cook County farms-businesses and how they relate to Cook County government. Possible tour stops include: 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. All tour sites will be located in Cook County. There are no repeat sites from the 2013 program. The program is designed to provide County staff with valuable and applicable information about Cook County farmers and businesses. Anyone interested in attending the program should contact Bona Heinsohn at (708) 354-3276 or via email at [email protected].

Farm Bureau considers Policy Prohibiting Felons from Seeking Public Office

During the 2014 Primary Election, two convicted felons sought election to the Cook County Board. One of the candidates was removed from the ballot prior to the March Primary Election. Article 13, Section 1 of the Illinois Constitution states that “A person convicted of a felony, bribery, perjury or other infamous crime shall be ineligible to hold and office created by this Constitution. Eligibility may be restored as provided by law.” The Unified Code of Corrections (730 ILCS 5/3-3-8) provides that eligibility to hold public office is automatically restored upon completion of a prison sentence. Farm Bureau members are recommending that delegates amend policy 106, Elections, to prohibit any person convicted of a felony, bribery, perjury or other infamous crime from seeking any municipal, township, county, state, or federal office.

Senate Bill 1666 would require all foods containing any ingredients made from biotechnology to be labeled as “Genetically Engineered”. The label would be mandatory and could create a negative perception of biotechnology. Additionally, a label would be contradictory to FDA food labeling guidelines, which is opposed by Farm Bureau policy. Although Senator Koehler filed an amendment, the sponsor has indicated that he is not going

to call the bill during this spring legislative session. Farm Bureau has been, and will continue working with a coalition of agricultural commodity and business groups to oppose labeling legislation. A second issue, House Bill 5690/Senate Bill 3524 would impose a tax on distributors of bottled sugar-sweetened beverages, syrups, or powders at the rate of $0.01 per ounce of bottled sugar-sweetened beverages sold or offered for sale to a retailer for sale in the

state to a consumer. The distributor would be required to add the amount of the tax to the price of sugar-sweetened beverages sold to a retailer, and the retailer shall pass the amount of the tax through to the consumer. House Bill 5690 was assigned to the Sales and Other Taxes Subcommittee of the House Revenue Committee and Senate Bill 3524 was held in the Senate Public Health Committee. Farm Bureau is opposed to both pieces of legislation.

Food Issues being considered by the Illinois General Assembly

At the end of March, incumbent Governor Pat Quinn detailed his fiscal year 2014- 2015 budget. As a part of this plan, the Governor announced his support of maintaining current tax rates, which means making the temporary income tax increase permanent. Doing so, the Governor said, would allow Illinois to avoid “extreme and radical cuts to education and critical services”. He also stated it would allow for investments into education and provide property tax relief for homeowners. Included in the Governor’s budget plan is a guaranteed $500 refund every year for property taxes for homeowners. Maintaining the current tax rates would also allow for investments in education, according to Quinn. His plan would invest $1.5 billion in early childhood education. He also proposed to fund

elementary and high schools by providing $6 billion in classroom spending over the next five years. Additionally, Quinn proposed to double MAP scholarships for students who need help affording college tuition. Additional proposals from the Governor include a tax cut for businesses to train new workers, spending caps to ensure Illinois does not spend beyond its means, and a rainy day fund to assist the State with its finances during economic downturns or other crises. The Governor’s budget address starts the heavy lifting that will be done to craft a state budget. Appropriations committees in both the House and Senate will continue to meet to determine spending levels for various state agencies and programs.

Through the annual Viewpoint Survey, Cook County Farm Bureau® (Cook CFB) voting farmers shared their thoughts and opinions on various county and state issues with the their local Farm Bureau. Ninety-four percent of voting members believe that countywide elected officials, including the Cook County President, Assessor, Sheriff, Clerk, Clerk of the Court, and State Attorney should be included under the county’s ethics ordinance and the County Board of Ethics’ oversight. Voting members are also supportive of Farm Bureau offering insight, information and research to municipalities seeking to develop ordinances regarding beekeeping in urban areas. Eighty-five percent of Farm Bureau voting members support prohibiting elected officials from

registering as lobbyists during their term in office. Members acknowledge that defining “lobbyist” will be complicated given that elected officials are often asked to lobby on behalf of their unit of government, which is not only expected but important. Members also overwhelmingly support the Forest Preserve District issuing three-day horse/rider tags in order to prevent riders from having to purchase multiple one-day tags or a season tag. Eighty-two percent of members responding to the survey support limiting power and pipeline projects to existing power routes when feasible. Voting members are also supportive of the City of Chicago issuing additional food truck licenses for high density neighborhoods.

Eighty-one percent of Farm Bureau members oppose the Army Corp of Engineers partnering with municipalities in order to use eminent domain to assume ownership of property regardless of the circumstance. Cook County Farm Bureau® is a grassroots organization and all policies developed and positions taken are the result of member input. Our policies begin with Farm Bureau members. Using the results and the comments generated by the 2014 Viewpoint Survey, Cook CFB will draft numerous policies as part of the organization’s grassroots policy process. The Viewpoint Survey was funded in part by the Illinois Farm Bureau® Advanced Policy Development Grant.

Farm Bureau Members Express Thoughts on County, State, and Federal Issues


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”

Mike Basile Chicago North Agency, Vicki Nygren, Agency ManagerMike Basile has been named Chicago North Career Financial Representative of the month for March 2014. His office is located

at 4708 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago, IL. His phone number is (773) 728-2957. Mike has been a Financial Representative since June 2007.

Violetta Kaminska Chicago North Agency, Vicki Nygren, Agency ManagerVioletta Kaminska has been named Chicago North Employee Financial Representative of the month for March 2014. Her office

is located at 3703 N. Harlem Ave in Chicago, IL. Her phone number is (773)427-2851. Violetta has been a Financial Representative since April 2009.

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

David Jara Chicago South Agency, Marc Rogala, Agency ManagerDavid Jara has been named Chicago South Employee Financial Representative of the month for March 2014. His office is located

at 6239 S. Archer Ave in Chicago, IL. His phone number is (773) 284-9000. David has been a Financial Representative since May 2011.

Bill Asimakopoulos Countryside Agency, Mike Flynn, Agency ManagerBill Asimakopoulos has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month for March 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].

Sabina Modla Countryside Agency, Mike Flynn, Agency ManagerSabina Modla has been named Employee Financial Representative of the Month for March 2014. Sabina’s office is located at 6438

Joliet Rd. in Countryside, IL. Her phone number is (708) 352-5555. Sabina has been a Financial Representative since December 2013. Her email address is [email protected].

Jim Andresen Orland Park Agency, Cary Tate, Agency ManagerJim Andresen has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month for March 2014. His office is located at 17605 S. Oak

Park Ave in Tinley Park, IL. His phone number is (708)633-6490. Jim has been a Financial Rep since January 2003.

Kevin Koykar Orland Park Agency, Cary Tate, Agency ManagerKevin Koykar has been named Employee Financial Representative of the Month for March 2014. His office is located at 106 Stephen

St., Ste 102A in Lemont, IL. His phone number is (630)254-6100. Kevin has been a Financial Rep since July 2013.

Lionel Chavez South Holland Agency, Jeff Orman, Agency ManagerLionel Chavez has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month for March 2014. Lionel’s office is located at 30 S. Ash

in Frankfort, IL. His phone number is (815) 464-0219. Lionel has been a Financial Representative since August 2001.

Mike McKenny South Holland Agency, Jeff Orman, Agency ManagerMike McKenny has been named Employee Financial Representative of the Month for March 2014. Mike’s office is located at 4845 W.

167th St., Unit 101 in Oak Forest, IL. His phone number is (708) 560-7777. Mike has been a Financial Representative since February 2013.

ALLCCW’s 16, 12 and 8 hour courses meet the requirements established by the State of Illinois and the Illi-nois State Police for issuance of the required training certificate needed to apply for a license.

This class is taught by State Certified Instructors using a State Certified Curriculum. The classroom portion of the course consists of seminar style presentations and student par-ticipation exercises. At the range, the student will participate in live fire practice drills and satisfactorily complete the 30 round qualification course.

For any questions,

call Tim at 815-545-3978

CCFB Illinois Concealed Carry Course

When: May 17th & 18th (Saturday & Sunday) Time: 9:00 am—5:00 pm (bring lunch)

Where: Cook County Farm Bureau Cost: 16 hour-$200; 12 hour-$150; 8 hour-$100

Note - Any spouse in the class is 50% off with the other spouses full

price paid registration; enter SPOUSE in the promo code block

* To Register: http://allccw.com/event-registration?ee=75

*COOK COUNTY FARM BUREAU MEMBERS ONLY

Cook County Farm Bureau 6438 Joliet Rd in

Countryside Tuesday, May 13th

9:00 am to 4:00 pm Appts. are necessary

Call Toll Free: 877-732-8258

Four Life Saving Screenings: Stroke Screening

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Peripheral Arterial Disease

Osteoporosis

Farm Bureau Members $100 Community $135

2014 Theme Park Tickets Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, IL 1-Day General tickets are $41.50 (ages 3 yrs & up) You save $25.44 Ages 2 and under are free. Tickets INCLUDE Hurricane Harbor. NOT VALID for Fright Fest. Six Flags St. Louis in St. Louis, MO 1-Day General tickets are $41.50 (ages 3 yrs & up) You save $15.49 Ages 2 and under are free. Tickets INCLUDE Water Park.

To view discount information, prices and ticket ordering information for Holiday World, Adventureland, Silver Dollar City, Raging Rivers and Raging Waves , visit cookcfb.org and login using your username and password located on the back of your membership card.


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

MiscellaneousTwo cemetery plots/Mt. Emblem Cemetery in Elmhurst, IL. Nice site, side by side. Valued at $3,800 each. Plus second rights. Asking $3,800 for the set. Please call 708-341-5304.

New, never used, Pella picture window, white clad lowe w/interior removable wood grills – 36 1/2” x 60” $250. New, never used, White Pella storm door and screen – 36” x 80” - $100. Call 630-257-1269.

Pair of vintage JBL L100 speakers. One owner, cabinets are very clean. Grills in excellent shape. Call for pictures. Asking $895. Call 708-672-9135.

Steel toe shoes: 1 Mens Timberline Pro (33034) size 10 Med – new in box $75. 1 Ladies Nautilus (1851) Size 10W – worn once $50. Call 708-349-4668.

Dayton 30” Industrial 2 speed ½ H.P. pedestal fan $150. Call evenings 708-349-0627.

Cargo carrier 35” x 48” x 20” beige $40.00 Glider with matching ottoman bleached oak w/blue cushions $65. File cabinet 52” x 15” x 22” $50. Call 630-293-0426.

Many Franklin Mint Mood dragons, Wizard of Oz collectors plates, Avon collectors plates. If interested in list and pricing, please email [email protected] or call 217-529-6107. Will ship or work out delivery.

McLane gas powered lawn edger, 3 HP B&S engine, single level blade clutch & depth control, curb wheel, includes two new spare (2” x 9”) cutting blades, 6 quarts of oil & instruction manuals, original owner, good condition $75, in Homer Glen. Call 815-485-4257.

One K-12 cut-off saw motor complete w/clutch $50. 2 Pro-lift Jack stands 3 ton 13” to 21” $35. 2 Craftsman Jack stands 2 ¼ ton 10 ½ - 17” $25. 1 Craftsman 1.5 HP, 2 gal wet & dry vac $25. 1 Wilmar 2 ¼ ton floor jack $40. 1 Craftsman 3 ton floor jack $60. 1 Torin big red creeper $25. 2 Blitz Rhino ramps 12,000 IB $60. All are like new. Call Gary at 815-485-5901.

Misc items for sale: Billiard table, 1 night stand, picnic table, and child tables. 3 hutch tops, 2 desks, 14 chairs, 6 cabinets, old bathtub, piano, freezer, Singer 347, dresser, dart board, van seat, Ouija boards, 3 paintings. Call 630-690-12443.

Memorabilia: Michael Jordan wrist watch & poster $120. Harley Davidson pictures, xmas tree ornaments, book $150. Call 847-809-5920.

Fantasy knife collection. Swords, daggers, pocket knives $275. About 30 pcs. Excellent for flee marketers. Call 847-803-5920.

Lincoln trap throw – ¾ self cocking double shelf mounted on a stainless steel pedestal. Retails for $650, selling for $250. Used and works well. Located in Tinley Park. Please call 708-204-4906.

Motorized Vehicles and Accessories

Brake buddy and blue ox tow bar for pulling car behind motor home (complete) $400 for both or $250 each. Call 708-474-6430.

2002 Chevy Silverado, 2500 HD, 4x4 flatbed 6.0, 59,000 miles, pewter with grey cloth interior. New stereo w/speakers P/LP/S, p/w, tilt cruise, remote start, backup camera, new aluminum bed. $11,500 OBO. Please call 219-617-0363.

1988 Fiesta buccaneer 20’ deck boat. 9 passenger, V8, 305hp Mercruiser inboard/outboard motor. Many newer engine parts. Interior in great shape. Trailer included. Located on Shafer Lake in Monticello, Indiana. $3,500 OBO. Call 708-860-9057.

12’ row boat, no trailer, oars, trolling motor, boat toter, anchor. Titled and registered. $250 firm. 847-428-0598.

2000 Ford Explorer XL, one owner, $950, great body, good motor, interior so-so, maintained, newer tires, great work car, no air, 260,000 miles. Chicago NW Suburbs. Call 312-968-0802.

Tractors/ Farm Equipment

Farmall M Tractor $1,800; Farmall A Tractor $2,300. Farm wagons $200 each. Call 847-909-5443 and ask for Jim.

Real Estate For Sale/Rent

For sale: 10 acres Newer country Beecher home. 3 bedrooms, 2 bath, garage, stove, fridge, washer & dryer, central air. Please call 708-772-3203.

Homewood, IL. Beautiful all brick 3-5 bedroom home in prime area. Near Ravisloe Country Club, 2 fire places, 3 baths, 3 season porch, related living a possibility. $265,000. Please call 708-799-3634.

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.

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.

Northern Wi river House, 10 miles south of

Tomahawk on scenic Hwy 107. 2 bedrms, 1

bath. Features pex piping, walk in shower, barn

board on 2 lvg room walls. Steel roof on home,

1 ½ c garage, 896 sq. ft home. 130 ft water

front. Asking $110,000 or best offer. Call Greg

at 715-223-5248 or Tina at 715-223-5247.

Vacation Rentals/Sales

Lovely 3 bedroom condo close to Disney World.

$650/wk. Color brochure available. Call 708-

704-6239.

For sale: 1 bdr luxury suite in Door County, WI.

Bridgeport Resort. Best ROI for owners in NE

WI, Condo Hotel. Call for details 847-870-1721.

Florida Keys furnished condo for rent. Located

in the Middle Keys with easy access to ocean or

gulf. Coral Lagoon, Unit #18, Marathon, FL. 3

bedroom, 2.5 bath, full kitchen, washer, dryer,

pool, decks, use of boat slip. Call 305-289-2212.

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 630-272-443. Ask for

Ron. Thanks!

Top dollar for unwanted, unfinished, muscle car

projects. Also full size & small pick-up trucks

any condition. Call 708-790-5684.

Wanted – 6’ light up plastic Santa Claus. Please

call 708-439-9770.

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.

Thanks a Million (That’s $200 Million!)

The IAA Credit Union has reached a significant milestone; our assets have grown to over $200 million! This places IAACU

in the $200 to $500 million peer group – that’s the top 15 percent of the country’s 7,000 credit unions by asset size. Also, over the past three months, IAACU’s membership has grown to the highest level in our 63 year history rapidly approaching a milestone of 15,000 memberships. We offer you, our members, a sincere thank-you for the trust and loyalty you have given us which directly led to the achievement of these milestones. Attainment of such milestones causes one to consider how and why IAACU has grown while others have shrunk, merged or ceased to exist. I believe it is directly related to our priorities; IAACU’s number one goal is to provide a significant value to ALL our members, rather than focusing on maximizing profit for a handful of stockholders. After all, we are owned by our members and run by a volunteer board, elected from that membership - you are our priority! Feedback IAACU received from a first quarter 2014 survey identified five priorities people desire from their banking institution: 1) Convenience,

2) Communication, 3) A Professional and Knowledgeable Staff, 4) Low Fees, 5) Competitive Rates. This feedback validated my suspicions as to why we have met these recent milestones – these priorities are our priorities. Each individual on our team embraces the idea of “I am the credit union” – taking ownership of the success of this institution and our ability to continue to serve our members and advance their financial well-being. We will do this by remaining well-capitalized and making conservative financial decisions while returning the maximum value possible to our members, employees and sponsoring companies. True to the International Credit Union mantra we embrace the “people helping people” philosophy. It continues to be my honor to oversee the staff and operations of IAACU to serve the people who trust us with their finances. We offer our sincere gratitude for your membership and continued support of IAACU!

Cook County Farm Bureau is pleased to partner with our Affiliated Company, the Illinois Agricultural Association Credit Union (IAACU) to bring a host of financial related member services and benefits to the members of Cook County Farm Bureau.

Sean Wells, CEO of the IAACU

PACIFIC COAST JOURNEY Featuring Oregon’s Coast & San Francisco

Departure Date: September 22, 2014

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

TENNESSEE RAILS AND SAILS Featuring 3 Scenic Rail Excursions and 2 River Cruises

Departure Date: October 13, 2014

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

FOR RESERVATIONS OR INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Debbie Voltz - (708)354-3276 via email: [email protected] OR Mayflower Tours - (800) 728-0724

Please mention Cook County Farm Bureau when you make your reservation.

Free home or local pickup and return 11 Meals (4 dinners, 1 lunch & 6 breakfasts Welcome Tennessee BBQ and Bluegrass Dinner Ride to the Observation Deck of Knoxville’s Sun-

sphere Buffet BBQ dinner cruise aboard the Star of Knoxville

with country music Tennessee Valley Steam Train ride along Missionary

Ridge Spend 1 night at the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo

Hotel Ride “America’s Most Amazing Mile” on the Incline

Railway Spend 2 nights at the famous Opryland Hotel $35 in Mayflower Money

Round trip airport transfers Columbia River Gorge including beautiful Multnomah Falls

and the mammoth Bonneville Lock and Dam Guided tour of Portand including the Old Town Historic

District and the International Rose Test Gardens Explore the magnificent Oregon Coast including Three

Capes Scenic Drive and Yaquina Head Lighthouse Enjoy a four-wheel-drive dune buggy ride through Oregon

Dunes National Recreation Area Visit Crater Lake National Park and take the Western Rim

Drive See the gigantic redwoods and sequoias of Redwood Na-

tional Park Follow the Oregon coast, with some of the most dramatic

scenery in the country San Francisco touring including the Golden Gate Bridge


Young Leaders Group


July 8-11, 2014

SAI 2 Educating the Next Generation: Food, Fuel & Fiber from K-12 Board our bus and head to Central Illinois where you will learn the origins of our fuel, food and fiber by visiting family run farming operations such as alpaca farmers, wind farm experts, ethanol plants and grain exporters. Gain an understanding of the role Illinois plays in the world agriculture market while learning innovative ideas to use back in your classroom Units of Study. The program will also focus on STEM concepts in the agriculture industry. Earn 2 graduate credits/24 CPDU’s. (Program includes 3 days/two nights in Central, IL. 4th day held at Cook County Farm Bureau, 6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, IL 60525)

The cost is $250 for non-farm bureau members and $225 for current members. Join the farm bureau and save $25 on your registration fee. (Refund of $100-$150 upon completion of course.) Graduate credits will be an additional cost, approximately $100 for each credit hour.

To register or for questions, please contact Diane Merrion, Ag Literacy Coordinator Cook County Farm Bureau 6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, IL 60525 (708-354-3276)

Find out more at http://www.cookcfb.org/ag-literacy/programs

Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation ® presents

SUMMER AGRICULTURE INSTITUTE Professional Development – Earn Grad Credits or CPDUs

2014 Bookmark ContestPick up an Ag book this summer and…

Travel into the world of agriculture!

Enter our bookmark contest and have people from all over Cook County use it during their summer reading. We’re already starting to receive entries for the bookmark contest. We love to see all your creativity, so keep them coming! Design a bookmark showing how agriculture is a part of your life, every day. Whether it’s milk from a cow, ethanol to fill your gas tank, cereal made with wheat, corn fresh from the field, or soy ink on your newspaper, we want to see how Ag is a part of your life! First and Second Place prizes will be awarded. First Place winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and the Second Place winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card. Winners will also receive an Ag themed book. The winning bookmarks will be duplicated for distribution this summer at local libraries and at the Cook County Farm Bureau. Please visit www.cookcfb.org/ag-literacy to obtain an entry form and template. Entries must be received by 5/16/14 via email or mail.

Members of the Young Leaders group playing a game of Whirlyball. The Young Leaders group gathers for a meeting at Whirlyball.

2014 Paint the Yard (garden) Contest Participation is easy!

1. Purchase $100 or more in annuals, perennials or nursery plants from a participating CCFB Garden Center (Greenhouse, Nursery, Farm Stand).

2. Submit entry form (reverse) and email a before photo of the Yard or Container Garden to: [email protected] ENTRY Form DEADLINE: June 16, 2014.

3. Send an after electronic photo of the Painted Yard or Container Garden to: [email protected] After PHOTO DEADLINE July 21, 2014 4. Entries for the Paint the Yard Contest will be posted on www.cookcfb.org and Facebook for voting by the general public. 5. Online voting begins July 22nd and is open through August 10th. Winners announced August 18th! Prizes - $1,500 in total prize money Popular Vote: ALL ENTRIES 1st Place: $300 Gift Certificate to participating Garden Center purchased from 2nd Place: $200 Gift Certificate to participating Garden Center purchased from Judges’ Vote: Yard & Container Garden categories 1st Place (2): $300 Gift Certificate to participating Garden Center purchased from 2nd Place(2): $200 Gift Certificate to participating Garden Center purchased from

Electronic entry form on line at www.cookcfb.org/buy-local/programs - May 1st!

Questions: Contact Debbie at CCFB Office at 708-354-3276. Electronic photo entries only. Sponsored by the Cook County Farm Bureau® Commodities/Marketing Team

2014 PAINT THE YARD CONTEST– Cook County Farm Bureau®

Name: _______________________________________________________________________Phone Number:_________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________________________City/Zip:______________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Yard Name/Theme that best describes your yard: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________ Participating CCFB Greenhouse/Garden Center: ___________________________________________________________________________

Date of Purchase: ________________________________________________ ENTRY DEADLINE: June 16, 2014

Attach copy of receipt(s) with entry form AFTER PHOTO DEADLINE: July 21, 2014 ON LINE VOTING BEGINS: July 22, 2014 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email, Fax, or Mail Entry Form to: [email protected] Fax: 708-579-6056 Cook County Farm Bureau 6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, Il 60525 Go to www.cookcfb.org/buy-local/programs, the Events calendar at cookcfb.org or call 708-354-3276 for additional information.

The newly formed Cook County Farm Bureau Young Leader Committee is having a great time “getting started”! In March, 11 members of the group gathered for dinner, a quick meeting, and then a rough and tumble 1 1/2 hours of Whirlyball

(bumper cars used for indoor field hockey). Members will be volunteering for various Ag Educational activities in upcoming months with the organization. The Young Leader group is made up of members age 18-35

interested in becoming more active in Farm Bureau and agriculture support. The group is planning a white water rafting trip in June. People interested in being a part of the Young Leaders group can contact the Farm Bureau at (708)354-3276.

The Cook County Farm Bureau has many interesting members with ties to agriculture. The following member profile is another example…

Cook County Farm Bureau Member profile:Ryan Zimmerman, Meteorologist

Owner/Founder-Weather by Request, a private weather consulting companyClients: landscape companies, snow removal companies, villages, farmers, the Cincinnati RedsPhone: 847-609-2395email: [email protected]: weatherbyrequest.weebly.com

Cooperator: What is the most interesting aspect of your consulting business?Zimmerman: The weather changes quickly, frequently and sometimes extremely in our area which is very exciting in my business. I am so fascinated by weather patterns. I have a very interesting client, the Cincinnati Reds, which I work very closely with in the spring, summer and fall. I’m in constant contact with the grounds crew to coordinate their actions when there are potentials of rain, lightning or other storm events that can affect the field and the potential of starting or completing a game. Monday (April 14th) is a great example because locally we had a couple inches of snow on the ground and I was working with clients here while at the same time, the Reds were attempting to determine if their game will be played based on the threat of storms. I was in constant contact with the Reds personnel and grounds crew. The game was eventually postponed due to the weather conditions. A few years ago, I was visiting the Reds stadium and they gave me the opportunity to turn on the lights of the stadium. I hit the button, lights went on, the crowd roared, and the pregame warm-ups began… It was a unique experience.

Cooperator: What do you offer to farmers as a part of your weather reports?Zimmerman: I have a farm format that I provide to my farm clients. I have a few farms in southeast Illinois and one in Indiana. I developed the format in which I provided detailed weather forecast short-term and long range. I send it out three days a week. I separate the forecast into sections to include highlights which include the significant weather events expected during the week, rain and temperature forecast (even pinpointing that down to the time by studying the various computer models), and departures from normal, severe weather outlook (squall line, chance of tornadoes, chance of hail, etc.), drought monitor and forecast, and seasonal forecasts.

Cooperator: What message would you like to tell the members of the Cook County Farm Bureau?Zimmerman: I think two things…1. It is very important to take weather warnings seriously and act on them accordingly. Pay attention to the weather conditions around you, and have a plan…be ready!2. I am interested in expanding my agricultural program… I am open to additional clientele in the agricultural community for anyone interested in that program.

To read the full Q & A article with Ryan, go to: cookcfb.org/news-and-publications/co-operator

Ryan examines a storm damaged tree.

Documents

May 2014 Cooperator