Checking out the visibility from the tractor seat proved to be an eye-opening experience for local high school students at Rural Route Safety Days held at Tri-Valley High School Sept. 23 and Olympia High School Sept. 27. Students had the chance to climb in the tractor cab to see what farmers can see and what they cannot see from the driver’s seat. Farmer volunteers shared safety tips and personal experiences with close calls or collisions.

Congratulations to McLean County Farm Bureau member, Rachel Hawk, on being selected as the winner of the 2019 District 7 Discussion meet! The discussion meet offers Farm Bureau members ages 18-35 the opportunity to hone public speaking skills and participate in group discussion of current issues. At the district event, participants discussed two topics cell-based meat and agricultural market development. Hawk will participate in the statewide competition during the 2019 Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting

Four dedicated supporters of 4-H and the McLean County Fair received recognition as 2019 Golden and Emerald Clover Award winners. Ruth Poppe was honored as a Golden Clover for serving as a leader of the Space Age Pioneers 4-H Club for 24 years, project superintendent and volunteer judge for 4-H activities. She was also on the McLean County Extension Council and Foundation Board. John Olson was recognized for his service on the McLean County Fair

About 160 runners and walkers participated in the HogWild 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk held July 28 at the McLean County Fairgrounds. Participants had the chance to preview the fair and enjoyed a post-race meal featuring porkburgers prepared by McLean County Pork Producers. Drew Toohill finished first in the men’s division and Olivia Hartke earned top honors in the women’s division. The top three finishers in each age division received a pig trophy. Race