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Current and/or Recent Activities Listed Below

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Farm ATV Access on Roads
Change in Law
Two years ago, farmers were granted a new authority to operate ATVs on county and township roadways for purposes of farming.  However, last year, legislation was passed that took away that authority as of January 1, 2010.  That was the same date that Gator-type vehicles were to have joined ATVs on roadways, but that authority never came into being.  The problem centers on a multitude of drafting errors in legislation designed to address golf cart use on roadways.  Unfortunately, ATVs were entangled in the mess.  Not only did ATVs lose the ability to be used on local roads, but their ability to even cross a public road was destroyed, too.
 
Besides legislation authorizing use of Gators, there were two other public acts passed in 2009 that affect the operation of “non-highway” vehicles on public roads:  PA 096-0653 and PA 096-0279.  They were both very poorly written.  On top of that, they contradict one another.
 
Golf Carts
For purposes of this discussion, it might be best to simply dismiss PA 096-0653 because it generally does not address ATVs.  It’s primary focus is 4-wheeled vehicles with a maximum speed greater than 20 mph but not more than 25 mph and that meet certain federal standards; in other words, golf carts.  However, any ATV that fits those parameters (highly unlikely) could be subject to its provisions, one of which is registration.   PA 096-0653 requires golf carts to be titled and registered. Generally, any vehicle required to be registered is also subject to mandatory insurance.
 
Non-highway Vehicles
PA 096-0279 is the one that has done most to damage the farm use of ATVs.  It limits the use of “non-highway” vehicles (including ATVs) to only those highways where the highway jurisdiction has authorized their use and posted the road accordingly, and only if those highways have a speed limit of 35 mph or less.  A non-highway vehicle can’t even cross a State highway except at a stop light or stop sign and only if the speed limit there is 35 mph or less.  That virtually rules out all farm use of ATVs on public roads.
 
Generally, ATVs purchased on or after January 1, 1998 are required to be titled; there is no known requirement for registration.
 
Mandatory Insurance
Both of those Publics Acts would require mandatory vehicle insurance for operation on roadways.  But the fact of the matter is, their restrictions are such that there is no practical means of operating an ATV on a public road. That makes any discussion of mandatory insurance or registration for farm ATVs a mute point.
 
Corrective Action
SB 2566 (Sen. Sullivan) has been introduced and Illinois Farm Bureau is working to get a House version introduced to correct the farm ATV problem in 2010 and restore the authority for both ATVs and Gator-type vehicles to be used on local roads for purposes of farming.  Please be aware that even once we are successful in gaining the passage of the proposed legislation it still has to be approved by the Governor.  The whole process could take until late summer or early fall for this to be corrected in its entirety.
 
IFB Transportation Expert Kevin Rund will be at Kreiger’s on Tuesday, February 9th, from 11:30-to-1:30 p.m. discussing this and the numerous changes to be aware of in 2010.

CCFB FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES 2010 SCHOLARSHIP INCREASE
Yesterday, the Christian County Farm Bureau Foundation voted to offer 5, $1000 scholarships for the 2010 program. This is an increase from 2009, when four awards were offered to Christian County agricultural students. The objective of the CCFB Foundation’s 2010 Scholarship program is to provide scholarships to college students who major in agriculture, agribusiness or an ag-related course of study. These scholarships are awarded on the basis of exceptional scholastic ability and/or financial need. Applicants may have been the recipient of a previous CCFB Foundation Scholarship. Applications can be accessed by visiting the following link, http://www.farmbureaunews.com/foundation.htm. Applications must be postmarked by Friday, February 26, 2010.
 
During this meeting the CCFB Foundation Trustees also approved to increase their annual donation to the Christian County Ag Literacy from $800 to $1000. The foundation is extremely grateful for the donations that members have made to help the foundation grow each year.
 
State Estate Tax
The current debate on the Federal Estate Tax has raised several questions regarding the Illinois Estate & Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax Act (the Death Tax).  Illinois law was decoupled from the federal law for January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2009.  As of January 1, 2010, the State death tax automatically was recoupled to the federal level.  This was part of Public Act 93-0030 (SB 1725) which became law on June 20, 2003.
 
This means that since Congress took no action, the estate tax on both the federal and state level is currently 0% for 2010.  If Congress or the State makes no changes to the current laws before January 1, 2011 the tax rate will return to 2001 levels.    As of January 1, 2011, the exemption level returns to $1 million dollars on the federal level.  Since the state estate tax will be coupled to the federal tax, the state tax will also return to the 2001 level of an exemption of $1 million.
 
So what is going to happen.  We have no idea for sure what Congress is going to do and neither does anyone in the General Assembly.  What we do know is that the State estimated that there would be $280 million collected from the State estate tax in 2010.  This of course will not be collected since the current tax is coupled at 0%.  With the loss of state revenue of close to $280 million there has been a lot of speculation and rumor that an attempt will be made to decouple the State Estate Tax from Federal Estate Tax.  Nothing officially has been introduced, but there is a lot of talk.  We will keep a close eye on the situation and keep you updated as this issue develops.

Cemetery Oversight Legislation Approved - HB 1188
On Wednesday, January 13 the House passed HB 1188 which the Senate had passed the day before.  HB 1188 created the Cemetery Oversight Act.  This bill was created due to the issues that occurred at the Burr Oak’s Cemetery in Chicago where burial sites were being sold twice, caskets were buried two deep on one plot, and some plots were being dug up and the casket being placed towards the back of the cemetery property.  This bill sets up regulations that all cemeteries have to follow in the state that will require better reporting and record keeping of burial plots within a cemetery.  It sets up the Cemetery Oversight Licensing and Disciplinary Fund.  It will require that cemetery employees be licensed and sets up disciplinary penalties if employees don’t follow the rules and regulations set forth for them.  It will also require background checks on cemetery manager and employees.  The bill also sets up the Cemetery Relief Fund which will make money available to cemeteries for emergency purposes, like what happened at the Burr Oak Cemetery.  The legislation authorizes that fees will be established by rule for the different licenses and registrations.  HB 1188 passed the Senate by a vote of 30-24-1 and it passed the House 85-30-2.  The bill will now be sent the Governor for his review and action.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF

• Have I ever written a letter to the editor promoting ag and/or explaining farm facts?
• Have I contacted a legislator when CCFB sent a legislative action request to me?
• Have I attended the CCFB Legislative Reception?

If your answers are NO to any or all of these, we can help you improve your legislative involvement and become more progressive in the communication you have with consumers and legislators. 2010 will be a crucial year for the ag industry and working to ensure the consumer and legislator are properly informed will be EXTREMELY IMPORTANT!
 
We can help provide you farm facts for letters to the editor, teach you how to send a detailed email to lawmakers in less than five minutes through our legislative action center and provide you with opportunities such as our January 28th Legislative Reception at Market Street Inn, to discuss your goals with legislators and local candidates.
 
Call or email us today.

CHRISTIAN COUNTY FARM BUREAU
400 W. MARKET ST.
TAYLORVILLE, IL 62568

Web address: http://www.farmbureaunews.com/>  
 mailto: ccfb@ctitech.com>  

 

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GrassRoots Issue Teams
play vital role in guiding Farm Bureau

Illinois Farm Bureau’s GrassRoots Issue Teams (GRITs) have completed their work for 2009. During the past several months, the teams identified short-term and long-term challenges, and addressed issues facing their fellow members with recommendations for consideration by the IAA Board and the 2009 IAA Resolutions Committee.
 
The seven teams of volunteer Farm Bureau leaders from across the state studied current issues and policy, and represent a vital part in Farm Bureau’s grassroots process.  The 2009 teams began their process with a January meeting in Bloomington and put together a report that was approved in January by the IAA Board.  Their second, and final, meeting was recently held.  The report from those meetings was approved in April by the IAA Board.
 
RD Elder, Fred Vangeison and Dennis Adams of Christian County are among the 88 leaders that served on GRITs this year which include Crop Production, Trade and Marketing; Equine; Livestock and Dairy; Natural Resources; Rural Life; Specialty Crops and Labor; and Technology and Risk Management teams.  Each team identified and discussed several issues.
 
In an effort to clarify and prioritize Illinois Farm Bureau's goals in the transportation area, the Crop Production, Trade and Marketing team reviewed existing organizational policy.  Numerous policies were consolidated, based on mode.  The policy rewrite will be presented to the 2009 Resolutions Committee for their consideration.
 
The team members of the Livestock and Dairy team completed the Ag Challenges Spokesperson training.  This prepares livestock producers to present brief, informal talks to community groups, with a focus on animal production and care issues.  It is a tremendous opportunity to help inform the public on how modern animal production systems operate, the high priority livestock producers place on animal welfare, and the producer's dedication to providing a safe and affordable food product.
 
Some of the other issues discussed by the individual teams included carbon credit trading, outdoor recreational opportunities for youth, card check legislation, horse abandonment, rural broadband access, telecommunications, and market convergence.
 
The application process for the 2010 teams will be held this summer.  To view the 2009 GRITS Summary, click here
 

 

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2009 WINTER CCFB EVENTS

 

Name of Event:            CCFB FARM MANAGEMENT SEMINAR, “Entities & Record Keeping”

Hosted by:                    Christian Co. Farm Bureau and Lincoln FBFM

General Details:           Wednesday, February 11^th, 11:00 a.m.-to-1:00 p.m. at One East Market in Taylorville

Price/Etc:                     $5.00 per person includes full lunch buffet & valuable information.

Must be a CCFB Member.

 

RSVP:                          RSVP by calling 217-824-2940 or emailing ccfb@ctitech.com.

 

Program Summary:     Attorney David Oldfield of Vandalia and Lincoln Farm Business Farm Management’s Randy Harmon will be our expert panelists for this event. David Oldfield will cover entities and the items you should consider in the business structure for your farm. Randy Harmon will discuss labor & accounting issues, record keeping approaches, and provide helpful tips in properly measuring the financial progress of your farm.

                                    Oldfield brings thirty years of law experience and he works primarily in the areas of corporate law, tax planning, business planning, municipal law, real estate and driver’s license appeals. Oldfield works with many Central Illinois Farmers and has lectured on Estate Planning and farm corporations at numerous FBFM seminars.

                                    Harmon has been involved as a farm manager with the University of Illinois Extension and Farm Business Farm Management for twenty-three years. Randy is a Christian County native and in his eighth year with Lincoln FBFM.

 

Event Name:                  NEW FARM BILL SEMINAR…covering the NEW CHANGES

Date:                            THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26^TH

Time:                            11:00 a.m.-to-1:00 p.m.

Location:                       Taylorville Memorial Hospital

Fee:                              No charge to CCFB Members. Lunch is included

RSVP:                          217-824-2940 or ccfb@ctitech.com Call today, seats are filling quickly

 

Event summary:             The new Farm Bill is much more than a continuation of the status quo. There are significant changes in payment limits and eligibility…and that means you may need to change how you manage risks and your entire operation.

Illinois Farm Bureau Senior Director of Marketing and Risk Management, Doug Yoder will cover:

§         The brand new revenue based safety net [ACRE]

§         The new permanent disaster program

§         Changes to Crop Insurance

§         Eligibility Changes

§         Payment Limits

§         Income thresholds 

§         Many valuable handouts.

Lincoln Farm Business Farm Management’s [FBFM] Randy Harmon will also be in attendance to address additional questions that members may have on the new Farm Bill changes.

 

Event Name:                  Crop Insurance Decisions in 2009

Date:                            Wednesday, March 4^th

Time:                            11:00 a.m.-to-1:00 p.m.

Location:                       Krieger’s Sports Grill in Taylorville

Hosted by:                    Christian Co. Farm Bureau, People’s Bank & Trust &

Lincoln Farm Business Farm Management

 

RSVP:                          Call 217-824-2940 or Email ccfb@ctitech.com.

Space is limited to 50, so reserve your spot soon.

 

Event Summary:            University of Illinois Professor in Farm Management, Gary Schnitkey will cover:

§         How crop insurance decisions in 2009 should be influenced by the

occurrences in the economic environment

 

§         Changes in the Federal Crop Insurance Program

 

§         Decisions relative to ACRES and traditional commodity programs

 

Event Name:                  CCFB Family Fun Bowling Night

Date:                            Friday, February 27^th

Time:                            7:00 p.m.-to-9:00 p.m.

Location:                       Shortstop Lanes in Taylorville

RSVP:                          Call 217-824-2940 or email us at ccfb@ctitech.com

 

Event Summary:

§         Two hours of Bowling

§         Free food & snacks

§         Shoe Rental Included

§         All for only $5.00 ea.

§         Must be a Farm Bureau Member

 
 

Event Name:                  CONFIDENTIAL & CLOSED Landowner Group Meeting,

Prairie Fork Wind Farm Project

 

Date:                            Tuesday, February 17^th

Time:                            5:30 p.m.

Location:                       Morrisonville Elementary School All Purpose Room

RSVP:                          No RSVP Needed.

 

Event Summary:            This meeting will be a CLOSED meeting to members of the Prairie Fork Wind Farm Landowner group to gain project and negotiation updates from Attorney Robert Potts and Assistant Kevin Williams of Whitney & Potts Ltd.

 

Note: If your land lies in the area of the Prairie Fork Wind Project and you have interest in being in this landowner group and have not attended previous landowner group meetings or provided the landowner committee with your contact information, please contact Christian CFB at 217-824-2940 to discuss. Ask for Eric Johnson.

 

Weather Date: If the initial meeting is postponed due to inclement weather, the meeting will be rescheduled for Tuesday, February 24^th, with the same time and location.

 

 

IFB GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
 

FEB 24-25, SPRINGFIELD CROWNE PLAZA
CLICK HERE FOR SESSION DESCRIPTIONS
CLICK HERE FOR REGISTRATION FORM AND COST BREAKDOWN

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2009 ILLINOIS FARM BUREAU POLICIES
The 2009 Illinois Farm Bureau Policies were set December 6-9 at the Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Chicago. The Illinois Farm Bureau grassroots policy development process provides every voting member the opportunity to make known their concerns about issues important to them. When properly supported through the grassroots policy development process, these concerns are considered and may be adopted by the voting delegates at the organization’s annual meeting each December.
 
That delegate action dictates the direction the organization follows in carrying out its programs each year. It is from this grassroots input and direction that Farm Bureau realizes its strength as an organization serving the needs of our members. These policies become the position for the organization for the upcoming year.
 
To view the latest IFB Policies, click here.  
 
2009 ILLINOIS FARM BUREAU PROPOSED LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
To view the Illinois Farm Bureau Proposed State Legislative Priorities for the 2009 General Assembly legislative session click here.
 

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Illinois Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Certification Available to Interested Producers January 22

The Illinois Beef Association, in conjunction with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, has developed a Beef Quality Assurance program for the Illinois beef industry. The certification program informs beef producers of proper processing and handling treatment of their livestock, feed and medication documentation, as well as environmental requirements within the state.

“Illinois beef producers do their part to ensure product safety every day through their management and cattle handling practices,” says Curt Rincker, Illinois Beef Quality Assurance coordinator. “This program will put credentials in their hands to verify their safe handling practices.”

“More and more consumers are demanding products that came from operations that are certified in management practices and animal well-being. In addition, as the number of branded products grow and producers participate in these supply streams, BQA certification will be an integral foundation for such brands,” says Rincker.

IBA believes that offering BQA certification to Illinois producers puts them in a position to take advantage of marketing opportunities to put more dollars back in their pockets. Rincker reminds producers that there is continuing discussion requiring certification for U.S. origin cattle. “We would anticipate that BQA will eventually be a necessary certification as well,” he adds.

 

Classes to be offered January 22

IBA is offering BQA certification at various sites throughout Illinois this winter. The first certification class will be offered at Lake Land Community College January 22. The curriculum for the BQA course includes: Feedstuffs; Feed Additives and Medications; Processing/Treatment and Records; Injectable Animal Health Products; Care and Animal Husbandry Practices and IL Environmental Requirements.

Upon completion of the quiz which you must score 85 percent or higher, you will receive a three year certification card and a plasticized farm sign which says Beef Quality Assurance Certified Producer. IBA will maintain the database of certified producers and send out a reminder when renewal certification is due.

The cost for the course is $10 for IBA members or $60 for non-members. Youth certification is $10 per individual (with a $65 IBA family membership) or $35 for non-IBA youth.

The class will begin with a meal at 6 PM in the college’s cafeteria, known as Laker Point, and training beginning at 6:30 PM in the West Building, Room 102. Reservations may be made through the IBA office, 217-787-4280, or by emailing Linda@illinoisbeef.com by January 19.

Other sites this winter are Illinois State University at Bloomington February 4 and Black Hawk East College at Kewanee February 11. Both of these sessions will begin with dinner at 6:00 and training at 6:30 PM.

In addition to the on-site trainings, you may also study the curriculum and take the quiz on-line. IBA is working in partnership with Purdue University. You may link to the BQA certification curriculum by going to www.illinoisbeef.com and clicking on BQA.

The BQA nationally standardized project was led by advisory board member Dr. Dee Griffin, DVM, University of Nebraska, who says, “This collection of BQA best management practices combines the expertise of our state beef council staff, veterinarians, nutritionists, feedlot owners and so many more throughout the industry. Checkoff dollars have allowed us to put the manual together for many different uses and it gives BQA coordinators one voice while out in the field with producers – something that’s now imperative to our industry.”

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CCFB MEMBER UPDATE-NOVEMBER 20TH

WINTER MARKETING MEETINGS SET
We are working to set a great slate of winter marketing based programs. Below are two new ones we’ve set and we will be coordinating others as well. As we schedule them, we’ll update you.

THURSDAY, JANURARY 15TH
6:30-to-8:30 p.m.
Location TBA-[likely Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium]
Market Outlook-dinner meeting
 
The Stewart Peterson Group will first be following up with analysis following the release of the 2008 crop yield in the January 12th monthly supply and demand report. This will be a more of an interactive workshop to uncover what you’re doing well and where you can improve by applying concepts relevant to your own situation.
 
Stewart Peterson customers and clients are producers and consumers of commodities. Their clients range from grass-roots farmer producers growing what on the Western Plains of Kansas or corn growers in Central Illinois, to the processors and end users of those commodities. Stewart-Peterson reps have served on our Market Outlook panels in the past and we look forward to this event.
 
Information on Stewart-Peterson can be found at www.stewart-peterson.com <http://www.stewart-peterson.com/> .
 
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26TH
11:00 a.m.-to-1:00 p.m.
Location TBA-lunch meeting [Likely Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium]
 
2008 Farm Bill…What it Means to Illinois Farmers
Speaker: Doug Yoder, Illinois Farm Bureau
CCFB realizes how important it is to breakdown the new information and share it with Christian County farmers... especially face-to-face. With the new administration taking office in late January, the timing of this program will be good to provide you with the latest information on the finalizations made to the new farm bill/program.
Make plans to attend!
 

• Christian County Livestock Development

• CCFB MEMBER UPDATE

  OCTOBER 23, 2008

  ITEMS OF DISCUSSION: CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION, MUTTS COMIC STRIP, WIND

CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION QUESTION

The Illinois Constitutional Convention referendum question on the Illinois Ballot is picking up more media attention. The Illinois and Christian County Farm Bureau’s reviewed this issue and took action to oppose the passage of a call to convene a Constitutional Convention.  The reason the organization feels that voters should not support the question of creating a Con Con is very simple.  There is more at risk to agriculture and rural communities with opening the constitution than there is with keeping it closed. This week and next, look for letters to the editor from CCFB Leadership explaining the process. Later today, we will be posting a full link on this on our Voter’s Handbook Section of the Website.

WHY SHOULD WE VOTE AGAINST A CONSITUTIONAL CONVENTION?

• A Con Con opens the door for Voter Initiative Ballot questions to change Constitution or Statute.  This could allow one well funded issue based group or elected official to drive a constitutional or statutory issue.   Examples in other states of voter initiatives are the banning of gestation crates, tax increases, minimum wage increases, legalize marijuana, allowing gambling, raising legislators pay, authorizes state government to trade lands, and etc.

• The current political & demographic make up of the General Assembly will create the statutes and procedures to oversee the Con Con.  The outcome of this process would most likely see a Con Con that would be stacked in favor of urban, densely populated areas.

• The issue of increasing the Executive Branches power and authority could be sought disrupting the checks and balances designed in the constitution.  This would diminish the basic fundamental belief in a republic of separation of powers.

• Issues detrimental to agriculture would be allowed an open forum.  Some of these could be: Changes in the property tax code to remove alternative property tax assessment procedures (i.e. Cook County Classification, Woodland Assessments, Farmland Assessment Law, etc.); Allow the issue of a graduated income tax to be visited; and term limits could be put in place further increasing the urban presence in the General Assembly.

If you are looking for more information on the Constitutional Convention Question, we encourage you to visit http://www.protectillinoisconstitution.org. There are additional resources at this website that support our organization’s position on this issue.

MUTTS COMIC STRIP STUMPING for PROPOSITION 2

Some of you have noticed that the comic strip “Mutts” is pushing hard for the passage of Proposition 2 on the November 4^th ballot in California. If it passes, Prop 2 would drive egg, veal and pork production out of the state and give the animal rights  movement a huge victory. The creator of “Mutts” is Patrick McDonnell who serves on the board of the Humane Society of the United States, which is the major driver of Prop 2. On his blog, the HSUS president and the CEO Wayne Pacelle applauds McDonnell for his efforts.

This has been quite a battle in CA. Illinois Farm Bureau has contributed to the campaign opposing Prop 2. This vote has the opportunity to set precedence for future instances. Here is the link to the campaign “against” Prop 2. http://www.safecaliforniafood.org.

TRADE WIND ENERGY MEETING

Those of you in the area of the proposed Trade Wind Energy Wind Farm have received or will be receiving a notice for their November 20^th meeting at Oak Terrace. This meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. I had a very thorough meeting with Trade Wind Reps Tuesday afternoon. We’re impressed with their approach on this project. They seem very thorough in the research they are conducting and are offering a fair contract that is above industry standards in many forms.

• Most importantly, we encourage you to have your family/farm attorney review this contract prior to the November 20^th meeting, if you haven’t already. As a landowner, you are the most important factor in this equation.
• If you are finished with harvest and field work by then, please try to attend. Trade Wind is bringing a full slate of company employees to help answer questions that you have.
• If there are major uncertainties following the Trade Wind meeting, we’ll help you as much as we can or look to host a confidential landowner meeting, if needed to conduct more open discussion of the project and help define your options more clearly.
• Bring at least two questions with you to the November 20^th meeting. Open discussion will be important for a successful project.  

Email me or call with questions or updates on projects in your township. We appreciate your support!

• CCFB August 2008 Newsletter

Saturday, August 23rd
Central Illinois Wine Growers & Tasting Tour
Hosted with Glen Earl Wine Cellars
***Click Here for Flier***
 

 

 

LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONFERENCE-JULY 16^TH

5:30 P.M. at the MOWEAQUA LIONS CLUB

 

Consider attending Illinois Farm Bureau’s Local Government Conference on July 16^th in Moweaqua. During the 3-hour program, attendees will be provided an overview of statewide issues plus a focus on three major topics affecting local government.  You will receive timely information, dinner and the opportunity to collaborate and become better acquainted with local officials from Central Illinois, all at NO COST TO YOU!

·         Local Government Budgeting:  Much of Farm Bureau’s effort regarding local government finance has focused on the revenue generation side of the equation . . . taxes.  But the demand for those tax dollars is driven by expenditures.  This session will study the budgeting and spending process used by local governments.  We’ll discuss opportunities for our county Farm Bureau to influence the demand for tax dollars and the efficiency with which they’re spent.  

·         Trends in Local Governance:  Looking at local government as it exists today is like viewing a snapshot; it lets you see what exists at that moment, but does little to help your understanding of how it got there or where it might be going.  This segment will track the evolution of local government in Illinois and across the nation.  We’ll discuss the events that helped to shape that change, and what these trends might portend for the future of Illinois’ local government.

·         Leader Perspective:  Local government officials discuss today’s financial priorities, how they’ve changed over time and an outlook for the future.  Farm Bureau leaders discuss the opportunities for involvement with local government and relate their experiences.

 

Speakers will include Illinois Farm Bureau specialists and local government officials that deal with these topics day-to-day.  This is an opportunity for you to learn the latest, share your thoughts and ask questions. We are teaming up with Macon and Shelby Counties on this program. Both of our County Chairman, John Curtin and Supervisor of Assessments, Ron Finley will be serving on the local government panel at this conference.

 

If you would like to attend, please RSVP our office at ccfb@ctitech.com or by calling us at 824-2940.

 

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CCFB ANNOUNCES 2008 ½ YEAR DUES MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN

July 1^st marks the start of our ½ Year Dues membership campaign. New farmer members, who sign up between July 1 and August 31^st, pay the pro-rated $30 and receive their choice of a $35 box of beef from Indian Knoll Cattle or a $35 certificate from CCFB to Fishers Meat Market. This makes your first six months of membership, virtually free!

We also have our SIGN and SAVE campaign. If you are a farmer member and recommend a new farmer member to CCFB, we’ll credit $10 towards your next year’s membership. Meaning, if you recommend or sign six farmer memberships, your 2009 membership is FREE!

Also, volunteers that recruit 3 or more farmer members will be entered into a $500 drawing for a gift certificate to a store of his or her choice. If you have questions, please call us at 824-2940 or email us at ccfb@ctitech.com.

AG APPRECIATION LUNCHEON-JULY 10^TH

The Ag Appreciation Luncheon will be hosted at the Christian County Fairgrounds on Thursday, July 10, at 11:30 a.m. We have approximately 75 tickets here at our office. The tickets are free. There are additional tickets available at the CC Soil and Water Office and the U of I Extension Office. If for any reason you cannot pick up a ticket, please call our office and we can mail them to you.

GRASS-ROOTS ISSUES TEAMS [GRITS] APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

CLICK HERE FOR THE APPLICATION. CCFB LOOKING TO HAVE AT LEAST 5 APPLICANTS FOR THE 2009 TEAMS

Designed to enhance IFB’s existing policy development process, GrassRoots Issue Teams (or GRITs) are comprised of IFB members who have demonstrated leadership or interest in promoting their commodities or issues and who will work on behalf IFB members across the state. GrassRoots Issue Teams work with local county leaders to identify issues that should be discussed the local level as part of IFB’s traditional policy development process.  As leaders IFB’s policy development process, GRIT members are provided opportunities to participate in Leaders to Washington programs, foreign trade missions, and leadership opportunities.

Members of each GRIT will hear from top trend setters in agriculture. They will learn what innovations, ideas, and technology will be impacting Illinois agriculture. They will help identify the key roles a general farm organization such as Illinois Farm Bureau must take in order to better serve members and help improve the member’s bottom line as agriculture grows into the 21st century.

Each person is appointed to a team for one year and may be reappointed.  Each team will meet two to three times a year as appropriate. Meetings may be supplemented by periodic mailings and conference calls.

Illinois Beef Association Summer Tour and Conference Set for June 26-28

The 2008 IBA Summer Tour and Conference will feature wide variety of events and activities for beef producers who wish to relax and enjoy a short get-away from their daily schedule!

Randy Faber, IBA President, would like to invite all who are interested in beef production to attend this event, which will offer farm tours as well as educational sessions. “Each year the Summer Tour and Conference is held in a different part of the state, offering everyone the chance to be part of this feature event of the Illinois Beef Association,” says Faber.

“There are beautiful farms and interesting sights to see in central Illinois and the IBA staff has worked to put together a tour that will showcase producers that have interesting projects going on, as well as including some of the areas attractions, such as the Abraham Lincoln Museum and Library,” he adds.

The Crowne Plaze in Springfield will serve as headquarters for the event. Thursday, June 26, will feature farm tours in the Shelbyville-Pana area, and will end with an old-fashioned picnic featuring IAMP Beef Innovation Award-Winning Imboden Meats’ Black & Blue Burgers- complete with homemade ice cream.

Friday morning begins with an update from the IL Dept. of Ag followed by Dale Durchholz, from Agri-Visor with an economic forecast. Attendants are free in the afternoon to visit the Abraham Lincoln Museum and the historic downtown Springfield area. Prairie Hill Winery in Oakford will entertain the group Friday evening with a Murder Mystery Dinner, “No Schick Sherlock.”

Saturday morning begins with the IBA Annual Meeting, followed by a thought-provoking session on “Wrestling with Input Costs.” Paul Walker, ISU will present some alternative feed ideas. Alan Miller, Gridley, will lead a hands-on exercise to help producers determine what their cow costs are.

The IBA Awards luncheon will honor the Environmental, Commercial and Purebred Seedstock Award winners. The Illinois Beef Farm Family of the Year will be announced also.

Tickets for the event are on sale at the IBA office, 217-787-4280, or email Linda@illlinoisbeef.com. Reservations should be made by June 15. Hotel reservations should be made directly to the Crowne Plaza at 217-529-7777 by June 8 to receive special rate.

CCFB FOUNDATION AWARDS $3000 IN ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Justin Adcock of Moweaqua, Shauna Fahl of Palmer and Eddie Kahle of Taylorville were selected as the recipients of the 2008 Christian County Farm Bureau Foundation Scholarship program. The CCFB Foundation increased their financial investment to three, $1000 scholarships for the ’08 program.

Justin Adcock, of Moweaqua majors in Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois. Justin currently is the President of the Illinois Junior Angus Association and Treasurer of the Illinois Junior Simmental Association. In college, he has been involved with the Hoof-n-Horn Club and a member of the University of Illinois Livestock Judging Team. Growing up, Justin was a 4-H and FFA member and has been involved with his family’s cattle and grain operation. Following graduation, Justin plans to attend graduate school in animal sciences with a concentration in cow/calf nutrition and reproduction. His goal is to eventually earn his Ph. D. and be employed in the cattle industry in a university or research related career.

Shauna Fahl, of Palmer also attends the University of Illinois and majors in Agri-Accounting. Throughout high school, Shauna was involved with student council, athletics, FFA and was a class officer. Additionally, she was an Illinois State Scholar, a State Journal Register Scholar Athlete and Valedictorian of her graduating class. Now in college, she is a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society, Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority and a member of the 2007 Dean’s List. Shauna plans to apply her accounting skills in the production, processing and retaining sectors of agriculture and become a CPA in the future.

Edward Kahle, of Taylorville will be attending the University of Illinois in the fall, 2008 semester. Academically, Kahle is an Illinois State Scholar and James Newton Matthews Scholar. At Taylorville High School, Edward was involved with student council, the envirothon team, jazz band, as well as football, track and tennis. He is additionally active with the Christian County YMCA, St. Mary’s Catholic Church and is an active volunteer and donor for the Central Illinois Blood Bank. Kahle’s family has been active grain farmers in Tazewell County and both of his parents were additionally agriculture majors at the University of Illinois. At college, Edward plans to major in Agricultural Engineering and Biological Sciences. Kahle believes his ag engineering major will allow him to help many farmers worldwide, whether it be working as an engineer for a farm equipment company or as a professor someday.

The 2009 Scholarship Applications will be available in February 2009. Please visit the CCFB Foundation link, located at www.farmbureaunews.com. The objective of the CCFB Foundation’s 2008 Scholarship program is to provide scholarships to students who major in agriculture, agribusiness or an ag-related course of study. These scholarships are awarded on the basis of exceptional scholastic ability and/or financial need.

For more information on the CCFB Foundation, please contact Manager, Eric Johnson at 217-824-2940 or via email at ccfb@ctitech.com.  

PREMISE REGISTRATION NUMBER VOLUNTARY

The Springfield State-Journal Register reports that the Illinois Department of Agriculture has decided to make voluntary for the 2008 calendar year a rule that would have required anyone wanting to show livestock or horses at state, county, 4-H or FFA fairs to provide a “premises identification number” specifying where the animal is usually kept.

Department of Agriculture spokeswoman Paris Ervin said Friday the agency has decided the new rule will be voluntary for the rest of 2008. Department officials also working with industry groups about premises registration “to come up with a plan that everyone is happy with,” she said.

ROCKIES EXPRESS & IDOA REACH AGREEMENT

Last week, Rockies Express and the IL Dept. of Ag signed an agricultural construction mitigation agreement. The agreement sets forth certain minimum construction standards for the entire Illinois section of the project. Nearly all the provisions we requested were accepted including a minimum of 5 feet of top cover in most cropland areas, which has been the most contentious issue being negotiated over the last eighteen months. IDOA will be mailing copies of this agreement to all affected landowners. CCFB received our copy today [3/25]. We will be providing more details in the future. For more information visit our county pipeline link, http://www.farmbureaunews.com/project.htm. We have not posted the new agreement. Once we have an electric copy, we will post this to the link.

MARK THE DATE

EXCELLENCE IN AGRICULTURE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

DEER RUN MINE PUBLIC HEARING FOR IDNR PERMIT

2008 CC-FS & CCFB Ethanol Promotion

Thursday, April 17^th, Fuel 24 Station, Taylorville

10:00 a.m. -to-1:00 p.m.

HUGE DISCOUNTS!

South Fork-Sangamon River/Lake Taylorville Watershed Report
This has been approved by the US EPA. Questions can be directed to Trevor Sample at 217/782-3362.
Click here: http://www.epa.state.il.us/water/tmdl/report/sangamon-taylorville/final-report.pdf
This is a big file…you may need to be on DSL or wireless to download this file.
 
LEGISLATIVE ACTION REQUEST
Request your state legislators to support the passage of SB 1921 and HB 4228 regarding the supplemental appropriation for 4-H youth educators. Click here for more information: http://capwiz.com/ilfb/state/main/?state=IL <http://capwiz.com/ilfb/state/main/?state=IL> . Then click on TAKE ACTION.
 
Voter Handbook
Complete state and federal Voting Records at this Link: http://www.ilfb.org/viewdriveline.asp?dlid=40

Illinois Department of Mines & Minerals New Links
Pending Application Section: http://dnr.state.il.us/mines/lrd/applications.htm
Coal Maps: http://dnr.state.il.us/mines/lrd/minx1.htm
Mines & Minerals Dept. Decisions: http://dnr.state.il.us/mines/lrd/lrdecision.htm


US DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NUMBERS
https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov/LIVIEW/PKG_REGISTRATION.prc_option

QUESTIONS ABOUT US-D.O.T NUMBERS
Click here: http://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/faq.aspx

UNITED CARRIER REGISTRATION
How it IMPACTS Christian County Farmers
Click for <http://www.farmbureaunews.com/PDF/United%20Carrier%20Registration%20FAQs.pdf>  United Carrier Registration F.A.Q. <http://www.farmbureaunews.com/PDF/United%20Carrier%20Registration%20FAQs.pdf>
 
FARM BILL-1031 EXCHANGES [Word File Attached]

New Enacted Four Wheeler Law in Illinois [Word File Attached]
 

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LINCOLNLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE TO OFFER WINTER AGRI COMP COURSES - - Click here

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CCFB FOUNDATION SILENT AUCTION RAISES $1700

The Christian County Farm Bureau Foundation raised $1700 on November 2^nd during their 2^nd Annual Silent Auction. This event was held in conjunction with the 89^th CCFB Annual Meeting at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

The funds raised from this auction will be used for the 2008 CCFB Scholarship Program. The CCFB FOUNDATION program awards scholarships to Christian County students pursuing a career in agriculture. In addition, the CCFB foundation donates to the Christian County Ag Literacy Program, which reaches thousands of elementary and middle school students in Christian County.

Other upcoming fundraisers will include the 2008 CCFB Foundation Golf Classic will be Saturday, May 3^rd at Lincolntrail Golf Course in Taylorville. If you would like to donate to the CCFB Foundation or discover more information, please email us at ccfb@ctitech.com.

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2007 CCFB ANNUAL MEETING

50 year Members Honored

Currently, Christian County has more than 215, 50 plus year members. Pictured here are more than sixty 50 plus year members in Christian County Farm Bureau. These individuals were recognized at the 89^th CCFB Annual Meeting. Look for more information on the 50 year recognition in the upcoming newsletter.

Volunteer Recruiter of the Year

Penny Bliler was recognized as the volunteer recruiter of the year. In 2007, Penny signed 5 new farmer members into CCFB. Penny was awarded a $100 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce gift certificate. Pictured is Penny speaking and introducing the 2008 Gene Long “I will” Volunteer Award

Gene Long “I Will” Award

Fred Vangeison, was awarded the I WILL award, which is presented to the director who shows the best volunteerism at FB programs during the year. This award was developed in the early 90’s in honor of former CCFB Director, Gene Long.

FB Agent of the Year

Doug McKinnie is pictured here receiving his gift certificate for the 2007 FB Agent of the Year. This prize is awarded for recruiting the most members amongst county agents into FB. Congratulations and thank you Doug for a tremendous year!

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US DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NUMBERS

https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov/LIVIEW/PKG_REGISTRATION.prc_option

QUESTIONS ABOUT US DOT NUMBERS

http://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/faq.aspx

UNITED CARRIER REGISTRATION

How it IMPACTS Christian County Farmers

Click for United Carrier Registration F.A.Q.

Contact us for more info