[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 176 (Tuesday, October 13, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E953]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF THE WHITE COUNTY FARM BUREAU

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                           HON. JOHN SHIMKUS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 13, 2020

  Mr. SHIMKUS. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Centennial 
Celebration of the White County Farm Bureau.
  The White County Farm Bureau had its origin in 1920 when farmers 
organized an association to accomplish together what one farmer could 
not do alone. Following a mass meeting of area farmers at the White 
County Courthouse, and after many stirring speeches, the White County 
Farm Bureau was organized. The most important issue of the time was 
soil composition, and poultry was the most important industry in the 
county followed by dairy and livestock.
  As is the case today, the strength of the early Farm Bureau laid with 
its members. For example, in 1925, a tornado crossed the county causing 
widespread destruction and death. The Farm Bureau worked closely with 
relief organizations to help neighbors get their farming work done and 
back on their feet.
  The purchase of alfalfa seeds was a growing interest to the Bureau in 
the 1930s. And as the financial condition of White County farmers 
improved, so too did the value of the organization. Membership 
increased, especially with women, and in 1940 the White County Home 
Bureau was organized.
  The Farm Bureau moved into its new building in 1947, paying the final 
loan installment in 1957. Through the 1960s and 1970s, the organization 
was involved in legislative, marketing, and membership policy 
development programs. Steady membership growth ensued, and member 
participation reached an all-time high.
  In the 1970s, the Illinois and county Farm Bureau's successfully 
lobbied for legislation to reduce fees for farm truck and trailer 
license plates. In addition, the Bureau was busy studying taxation 
policy, concluding early on that property taxes needed reform.
  Madam Speaker, the spirit of cooperation and hard work lives on in 
today's White County Farm Bureau, continuing a proud legacy filled with 
accomplishments and overcoming challenges. To celebrate this legacy, 
the Bureau plans to share historical photos and documents on social 
media, interview past leaders, compile a video presentation, produce a 
Centennial Booklet for members, and hold the 100th Annual Meeting in 
January 2021.
  It is an honor to stand today to acknowledge the centennial 
anniversary of the White County Farm Bureau, and I wish the Bureau many 
more years of success.

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