One of the finer annual traditions in Prairie Central Land is the FFA Farm and Home Show.
The show has something for everyone, from exhibits and restored tractors to safety demonstrations and a meal. This year’s 40th annual show will be held Saturday, February 29 in the Prairie Central Upper Elementary gymnasium in Forrest.
The Prairie Central FFA Alumni Association and the Prairie Central FFA student chapter work together to organize and run the large event. It features more than 50 local businesses of all types, including home improvement, agriculture supplies, landscaping, and construction.
A special safety presentation by Live Line Demo, Inc. will run throughout the day, helping attendees better recognize potential dangers associated with our electric grid and how to deal with emergencies involving downed power lines.
The FFA mechanics class has been busy again this year with a tractor restoration, and they have a Farmall B ready for raffle. You can recognize the Model B by its unique side-seat position that allows the driver to look straight down the row as he or she crosses 40” square-planted corn.
This cute tractor is small enough to even fit in the garage of in-town residents. It’s a good investment, considering it is worth much more today than when it was sold new from 1939 to 1947 for about $770. The drawing will be held on Thursday, March 19 at the annual FFA Hog Roast and Auction.
Lastly, come one and come all to the Pork Chop Lunch in the school cafeteria. Bring your family or get it to-go. The dinner includes pork burgers, cheesy potatoes, green beans, Texas cake, and ice cream.
Bobbi McKean, coordinator for the Specialty Shops of Fairbury notes, “Those of us at the Specialty Shops understand the value and importance of shopping locally in our own communities. The FFA Farm and Home Show is a great way for us to discover businesses right in our backyard that we might not have even known about. The wide array of skills and services that are available surprises even those of us who have lived and done business here for many years.”
We love to hear all of your stories, ideas, and suggestions. Please share your thoughts with us by calling (815) 692-4500 or by emailing fairbury@fairburyILattractions.com. You can also speak to a Specialty Shops representative by visiting Bobbi McKeon at Heart’s Desire on Route 24 in Fairbury.
