News

U of I Extension announces restructuring plan

The University of Illinois Extension will maintain its local roots in a restructuring plan announced Friday to help the service survive state budget cuts.

Interim Extension director Bob Hoeft released a plan revealing Extension will close all regional education centers, reduce staff, and develop multi-county partnerships -- but keep an office in every county.

Got Barns, MCAC has Cats

McHenry County Animal Control (MCAC) is seeking help in finding barn homes for feral cats. This is where farmers/rural residents and their barns could come into the picture. MCAC is receiving assistance for spaying/neutering, Micro-chipping and giving the cats all their shots.

Grain bins can be dangerous and deadly; take caution

It's National Farm Safety and Health Week and McHenry County Farm Bureau asks farmers to focus on grain bin safety this harvest. Last year, 51 men and boys were engulfed in grain bins throughout the United States. Twenty-six died. Illinois led the nation with 10 accidents and five deaths.

Most farmers know that grain bins can be extremely dangerous, but sometimes it's easy to forget basics of grain bin safety. Also, there is an increased risk if someone who is inexperienced is using them or playing in them, especially children.

Top Membership Recruiters

The 2009 Top 3 Membership Recruiters were recently recognized: In 1st place was Jason Shreeves, 102 new members (pictured along with Bruce Meier, MCFB President) 2nd place went to Bill Wilson, 95 new members and 3rd place went to Ryan Conway, 88 new members.  Total new members to our organization 1,170 (includes COUNTRY Financial, FS, and Farm Bureau efforts). Great job volunteers and affiliates!

Ag Day with media held

Our Ag Day with media event was held for purpose of raising awareness of agricultural issues and concerns. The Business Journal, Woodstock Ind., Harvard Main Line and Star 105 all participated in the event. The program is sponsored by the Hughes Family and McHenry County Farm Bureau. Our first Ag Day program was held in 1975 and has been held every year since. A special thank you goes out to Don Peasley, who has organized the event each and every year since its start.