Hello and well wishes from Polk County Farm Bureau.
We recently submitted our County Recognition Program Application to Florida Farm Bureau. For those who may not be familiar with this program, this is our opportunity to share our county members’ many great agriculture advocacy efforts in the areas of Public Relations, Leadership Development, Organizational Management, Legislative/Policy, and Agriculture Education. We are always amazed at our members’ accomplishments and passion for the agriculture community as we put this record together each year. I want to thank all of our member volunteers who make it possible for Polk County Farm Bureau to rise above, year after year.
Students are encouraged to register for our Polk County Farm Bureau Youth Speech Contest to be held on Tuesday, August 26, beginning at 4 p.m. in the Brenneman Room at the Polk County Extension Office. Florida Farm Bureau has announced this year’s Youth Speech Contest topic, “What obstacles threaten Florida agriculture’s economic viability, and how do we address them?” The contest is open to students ages 14 – 18 and is sponsored by the Florida Farm Bureau Federation Women’s Leadership Program. The purpose of this contest is to promote a stronger interest and clearer understanding of the many aspects of agriculture; to provide opportunities for our youth to gain knowledge, appreciation, and understanding of agriculture; and help to promote agriculture’s many values and virtues. Students compete at the county level first, winners proceed to the district level, and district winners to the state competition. To register or for more information, contact Sarah Waldman at saraht@pcfb.org or 863-533-0561, ext. 112.
SAVE THE DATE!
We are excited to announce a new format this year for our Annual Membership Meeting! Please save the date to join us for an evening of fun and fellowship as we celebrate our members and friends of Polk County agriculture. The event will be held on October 9, 2025, beginning at 6 p.m. at The Barn at Lazy P Ranch in Bartow. Mark your calendar to enjoy a steak dinner, fellowship, and great entertainment from comedian “Tim the Dairy Farmer.” Invitations with rsvp information will be sent to members and friends as we get closer to the event.
Active PCFB members will receive invitations by mail. Sponsorships are available for this event. If you are interested in sponsoring this event or need additional information, please contact Carole McKenzie at carolem@pcfb.org or 863-533-0561, ext. 111.
Wishing you a great summer full of fun and warm lasting memories.
Sincerely,
Michael Matteson
President