3 IFB Young Leaders Become National Finalists

It's supposed to be in the 80's in Honolulu today, but we think it's the Illinois Farm Bureau's (IFB) Young Leaders that are really heating things up at the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Annual Meeting. Kirk & Stephanie Liefer and Katie Pratt moved into the finals for AFBF's Young Farmers and Ranchers contests. Winners will be announced today.                                          

Kirk & Stephanie Liefer:
Achievement Award Final 10
Kirk and Stephanie Liefer of Randolph County were named one of the top 10 most outstanding young farmers in the nation, moving them into the finals of the Achievement Award.

The Liefers were evaluated on their farming and leadership skills. More specifically, the judges looked for the excellence in management, growth, and self-initiative that the Liefers displayed throughout their farm. Winners will be announced today. Good luck Kirk and Stephanie!

Katie Pratt: Discussion Meet Sweet 16

UPDATE: Katie has made it to the Final Four!

Katie Pratt of Lee County has "talked" her way into the Discussion Meet's Sweet 16. This contest simulates a committee meeting where participants tackle tough farming topics.

To move into the finals, Pratt impressed the judges with how she offered constructive criticism, cooperation, and communication while analyzing farming problems and developing solutions. Winners will be announced today. Good luck Katie!

Excellence in Ag Award
While Alan Chesnut of Vermilion County may have not made the finals, he still made a splash with his showing at the Excellence in Ag Award contest. This contest recognizes outstanding people, like Chesnut, whose primary interest is not in farming and celebrates their leadership and hard work that contribute to the success of their committees, communities, and farm community. Great job Alan!

Will You Be Next Year's Winner?
Don't just read about these contests. Illinois Farm Bureau is accepting applications for the 2012 Achievement Award and Excellence in Ag Award. Men and women age 18 to 35 are encouraged to give it a try. Better hurry, though. Applications are due next Tuesday, January 17, 2012. Who knows? Maybe you'll represent Illinois next year at AFBF's 2013 meeting in Nashville, TN.