By Adam Studzinski
BLOOMINGTON – Illinois Farm Bureau is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and employees marked the occasion with a special gathering Tuesday afternoon at the organization’s headquarters in Bloomington.
President Richard Guebert called IFB one of the greatest organizations he’s belonged to. He talked about what’s carried the organization the past 100 years.
“I think it’s our members, our county presidents, county leaderships visiting with their legislators (and) impressing on them the legislation that’s before them, or that they’re voting on, what impact that has on them,” said Guebert. “And they value farmer’s opinions.”
Guebert offered thoughts on what founding members would say if they could see what IFB has grown into since 1916.
“I think they would have to step back and say, ‘Wow. I had no idea what I started would have that kind of an impact for 100 years,’” said Guebert. “And be very proud and honored to part of that conversation to get things started.”
Guebert believed the future of IFB is bright, especially after meeting with the group’s youth leaders last weekend.
Also on Tuesday, IFB unveiled a new exhibit at its headquarters called “A Voice for Agriculture: The Centennial History of Illinois Farm Bureau.” The exhibit showcases artifacts, photos and memorabilia highlighting the last 100 years.
Adam Studzinski can be reached at adam.studzinski@cumulus.com.
