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.