Wake Up Tri-Counties Katie Talks Henry County Farm Bureau Events and Ag In The Classroom

The Henry County Farm Bureau is wrapping up a busy summer while preparing for several educational programs and activities as the fall season approaches. Katie Laleman of the Henry County Farm Bureau recently joined Ken Peele on Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss upcoming events, including the rescheduled Foundation Golf Funday, the return of the Ag in the Classroom program, and an annual driver education event focused on farm and railroad safety. Foundation Golf Funday Rescheduled The Henry County Farm Bureau Foundation’s biggest fundraiser, the Foundation Golf Funday, was recently postponed because of weather. The event was rescheduled to Friday, August 28, at Baker Park. The fundraiser supports the Farm Bureau Foundation, including its Ag in the Classroom program and scholarship efforts. Ag in the Classroom Returns With the start of the school year, the Henry County Farm Bureau is also preparing to bring its Ag in the Classroom program back into local elementary schools. Madison Castile has taken over as the Farm Bureau's education coordinator following Paula Jansen's retirement after 24 years in the position. The program reaches elementary students throughout Henry County and typically reaches more than 11,000 students each year. Lessons are generally conducted for about 30 minutes and vary according to the students' ages. The fall lessons will include topics such as apples and pumpkins. Students may learn where apples are grown, how they are produced, and how different varieties compare. Apple tasting is also part of the lesson. As the school year continues, students will learn about a variety of agricultural topics, including Christmas trees, livestock, and other aspects of farming. The goal, Laleman explained, is to help young people understand where their food comes from and become informed consumers. The program also introduces students to agriculture-related careers. Driver Education Program Focuses on Farm and Railroad Safety Another major program will take place in September when the Henry County Farm Bureau invites high school students from across the county to the Henry County Fairgrounds for an agricultural driver safety program. Students will rotate through approximately five stations addressing topics including sharing the road with farm equipment and railroad safety. Local farmers bring agricultural equipment to demonstrate what motorists can see—and cannot see—from the driver's seat. Students learn about safe following distances, passing farm equipment, and the importance of watching for flashing lights. The timing of the program is particularly important as the area heads into the fall harvest season, when more tractors, combines, and grain carts are traveling local roads. The program also includes Operation Lifesaver, which teaches students about railroad safety and what to look for when approaching railroad crossings. FS brings a driving simulator that allows students to experience what it is like to operate large agricultural equipment. Students can also climb into larger pieces of equipment to better understand the driver's perspective and blind spots. Laleman said the program is designed to prepare young drivers for the situations they will encounter on rural roads, where tall crops, blind intersections, farm equipment, and other hazards can create additional challenges. “If we can save one person, if we can save an accident from happening, we've done our job,” Laleman said. Staying Connected With the Farm Bureau Residents who want to learn more about Henry County Farm Bureau programs and activities can follow the organization on Facebook, visit its website, or check the Farm Bureau's monthly publication sent to members. Information is also available by contacting the Henry County Farm Bureau office. With Ag in the Classroom returning and harvest season approaching, the Farm Bureau is preparing for another busy fall focused on agriculture, education, and community safety.