Member News

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New Heartland Ag Complex Opens Doors for Educational Opportunities

McLean County Farm Bureau joined in the celebration of the new agriculture facility at Heartland Community College with a ribbon cutting Jan. 31.The building opened to host ag classes for the Spring 2024 semester. The complex includes classrooms, greenhouses and lab space including the McLean County Farm Bureau Agriculture Lab, made possible in part by a $2 million gift from McLean County Farm Bureau. Heartland Community College offers a growing number of agriculture degree and

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Chay Fisher, Ridgeview High School sophomore (left) had the
chance to test drive a Case IH Quadtrac tractor with McLean
County Farm Bureau board member, Arin Rader, at Acquaintance
Day Jan. 25. Birkey’s Farm Store provided equipment for the event.

Students Explore Careers, Team Building at Acquaintance Day

Local FFA members explored agricultural careers, gained team working experience and learned about McLean County Farm Bureau and affiliated companies at Acquaintance Day Jan. 25. A record number of 180 sophomores ag students from nine local high schools participated in the annual event. University of Illinois Extension staff from 4-H Memorial Camp and the local Extension unit office facilitated team building activities. Ag professionals showcased the range of career opportunities in agriculture including staff from

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2023 Year End Highlights

Reflecting on 2023 as we look ahead to 2024 – together we’ll keep keep advocating for agriculture, serving our members & giving back to our communities!

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Bane, Stanko Earn IL Ag in the Classroom Honors

A McLean County teacher and a McLean County farmer earned statewide recognition for their Ag in the Classroom efforts. Pat Bane, a McLean County hog farmer from Arrowsmith, was named an Illinois Ag in the Classroom Volunteer of the Year for decades of work helping others learn about agriculture. Bane helped establish the McLean County Fair Food & Farm Fun Zone educational exhibit and continues to serve on the committee to help plan and facilitate

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McLean County Farm Bureau Community Engagement Chair,
Karen Corrigan (center), delivered food items to the Heartland
Community College Food Pantry in honor of Giving Tuesday.

Giving Back for Giving Tuesday

McLean County Farm Bureau Community Engagement committee contributed to several local nonprofit organizations in honor of “Giving Tuesday.” Baby Fold – diapers & wipes Brightpoint Crisis Nursery – diapers & wipes Bloomington-Normal Boys & Girls Club Heartland Community College Food Pantry – food items Home Sweet Home – meat gift certificate Midwest Food Bank – Hope Packs school food backpacks Project Oz – healthy snacks Salvation Army Safe Harbor – meat gift certificate School Street

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