Wayne/Pike
President
Bonnie Latourette
570-729-8499
Vice-President
Bob Rutledge
Secretary
Joyce Carson
Treasurer
Amy Theobald
Organization Director
Katelyn Cole
Monthly Meetings:
2nd Tuesday of each month at 7:30 PM. Located at the Wayne County Chamber Building on Commercial St. in Honesdale.
Reap the Benefits of Farm Bureau Services
There are many statewide benefits to being a Pennsylvania Farm Bureau member. Take advantage of automotive rebates, health insurance packages, just to name a few. In addition, members of the Wayne-Pike County Farm Bureau will be able to use their membership card to take advantage of an extensive list of local county discounts (under W) as well.
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Top Commodities: Dairy/Milk, Fruits, Hay, Horticulture, Vegetables
2022
County News
Scranton Ronald McDonald House Receives Help from Farmers Care
Representatives of the counties in District 1 PA Farm Bureau came together to donate $2050 worth of cash, paper products and non-perishable foods to the Scranton Ronald McDonald House on March 20, 2025.
The Farmers Care program recognizes the commitment of farmers to producing healthy and affordable food for our communities. It also exhibits a farmer’s willingness to help neighbors in need.
Spring Scholarship Dinner
Saturday, April 5, 2025, 6:00 PM
Park Street Complex 648 W. Park St. Honesdale, PA
Cost: $25 per person Catering by Eastern Beast BBQ
Keynote Speaker: PA Congressman Rob Bresnahan
Reservations: Joyce Carson (570) 226 – 3864
RSVP by: Friday, March 28, 2025
Scholarships will be awarded at this meeting!
FARM-tastic Books Donated
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau recently donated this year’s FARM-tastic book, “My Grandpa, My Tree and Me” to all public libraries and elementary schools in Wayne and Pike Counties.
Written by Roxanne Troup with beautiful illustrations by Kendra Birney, the book tells the story of a loving grandfather who planted a pecan tree on the day his granddaughter was born. Of all the trees in Grandpa’s orchard, this tree is special.
The story follows the pair as they carefully tend the tree, feeding its roots, pruning its branches and picking its fruit, all by hand and always together.
Recommended for ages 4 – 8, “My Grandpa, My Tree and Me” is a useful tool to teach children about the fruit and nut trees found in a commercial orchard.
Safety Contest Winners
Emma Preble received a $25 check for her poster entry in the “Grain Bin Safety” contest offered by Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau.
Honesdale FFA Receives Jackets
After a snowstorm kept them from attending the FFA Convention at the Farm Show in Harrisburg, twenty-one students of the Honesdale FFA received their official blue corduroy jackets in a special ceremony on January 29 at the Honesdale High School.
Family members, friends and jacket sponsors watched as the students simultaneously put on their jackets for the very first time. May this ceremony signal the beginning of much growth and achievement in their FFA careers.
Caption: Jacket recipients pictured with a few of their sponsors. To the left: Bill & Joyce Carson. On the right: Bonnie LaTourette & Amy Theobald from Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau and Jane Bollinger from Wayne County Grown/PASA.
Farmer Appreciation Day
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau attended the Waymart Historical Society’s “Farmer Appreciation Day” on September 21. President Bonnie LaTourette and Board Director Courtney Swendsen spent the day educating attendees on the importance of agriculture and how it impacts everyone’s daily life.
Farm Bureau Sponsors Train Excursion
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau sponsored a Stourbridge Lion Train Excursion on September 14.
The train traveled from the Honesdale station to Hawley for the Fall Arts & Crafts Fair.
President Bonnie LaTourette gave an informative talk about agriculture and each person on the train received a Farm Bureau tote bag.
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau Enjoys Farm Tour
On September 4, the Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau held its Annual Legislative Farm Tour.
The first stop on the tour was the Allan & Michelle Eccles Farm near Lakewood. The Eccles rotationally graze approximately 130 cows on 200 acres of land. Cows are moved to new pastures daily to maximize nutrient intake from the forage and promote soil health while keeping inputs to a minimum. The Eccles’ grass fed only beef is available to be enjoyed by the community.
The next stop on the tour was the Fair Hill Therapeutic Riding Academy in Waymart. Owners Richard Martzen & Bonnie Hayter offer equine-assisted therapy to children and adults with special needs. Studies have shown that horses provide non-judgmental feedback to the humans working with them. This can lead to a significant decrease in anxiety and stress levels while promoting feelings of trust and patience in participants.
Legislators in attendance were State Representatives Jonathan Fritz & Jeff Olsommer, Doug Miller from Senator Rosemary Brown’s office and County Commissioners Jocelyn Cramer & Brian Smith.
This very informative and educational tour was enjoyed by all!
Farm Bureau Awards Scholarships
The Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau is pleased to announce the recipients of the “Agriculture, The Heart of a Growing Wayne/Pike County” Scholarship. The winners were chosen on the basis of academic achievement, agriculture experience, career goals, extracurricular activities and community service. Students were also asked to write an essay on one of three pertinent issues facing agriculture today. Each recipient received a check for $1500 to assist them with tuition, room, board, books and school supplies as they pursue further education.
Gillian Goldstein plans to enter Cornell University’s Pre-Med program with the intention of becoming an OB-GYN. Caring for and assisting animals through the birthing process has inspired her career choice.
Gillian is a member of the Tri-Gal 4H Club and the Honesdale FFA where she has participated in many community service activities. She is a member of the National Honor Society and has played Varsity soccer and basketball for the past four years.
Outside of school, Gillian does chores on her family’s farm and prepares her animals for showing at the Wayne County Fair. She has also worked at an alpaca farm, a children’s day camp and does babysitting for a neighbor.
Miranda Grossman plans to attend West Chester University majoring in marketing with the goal of taking over her family’s beef business.
She has been active in 4H for ten years, serving as club president for three of them. At home, she cares for the family’s livestock and assists customers with their beef purchases.
In Honesdale High School, Mandy is a member of the National Honor Society and has participated in basketball, cheer and has Lettered on the Varsity tennis team.
Elektra Kehagias will attend American University to pursue a degree in History and International Studies. She is planning a career in Law and Public Policy.
While at Honesdale High School, Elektra has participated in Varsity soccer, Science Olympiad, the Mock Trial Team, and has won awards in the PA Junior Academy of Science Competitions. She has been serving as National Honor Society president for two years.
Outside of school, Elektra has been a 4H member for 12 years and served as Teen Council president. She has won numerous awards for Horsemanship and raised champion dairy goats. She currently manages a herd of 25 LaMancha goats and works part time for the Ellis Law firm in Honesdale.
Elektra served as Wayne County Dairy Princess in 2022 – 2023 and received recognition from Senator Lisa Baker for advocating for dairy farmers.
Carter Kennedy will attend Penn State University majoring in Agriculture and Extension Education.
He has participated in 4H for ten years with a variety of projects including beef, swine, rabbits, chickens and flowers. As a leader in Honesdale FFA, Carter has served as Chapter president and treasurer. He has attended two Next-Gen Conferences and been awarded a Keystone Degree.
Carter has competed on the Varsity wrestling team for four years, the Robotics team for two years and is a member of the National Honor Society.
Along with helping his family with daily chores on their Registered Angus beef farm, Carter works for Kretschmer Excavating and John Wetmore Auctions. He is currently an auctioneer apprentice working toward his auctioneer license.
Bruce Kohut has already begun taking courses at Johnson College for Auto and Diesel Mechanics.
As a student at Western Wayne High School, Bruce has participated on the Varsity basketball team and in the Ultimate Frisbee Club.
His favorite community service project is “Toys for Tots” where he donated over twenty toys for Christmas. He also mows lawns for a local Charter school and his church’s cemetery.
Bruce works at Keen Lake Campground and at his friend’s beef farm feeding cows and harvesting hay.
Karleigh Weist has been accepted into Kings College 5-year Accelerated Physician Assistant program.
A long-time member of the Explorers 4H Club, Karleigh currently serves as club president. She has shown dairy, beef and swine at the Wayne County Fair and dairy and swine at the GDS Fair.
At Wallenpaupack High School, she plays on the Varsity softball and golf teams. She is a member of the National Honor Society and has earned a Golden Scholar and Golden Torch Award.
Along with working on her family’s dairy farm milking cows and feeding calves, Karleigh has worked at KC Pepper’s and Gresham’s Chop House.
She has been involved in the school’s HOSA program (Health Occupations Students of America) and has received clinical experience at Wayne Memorial Hospital.
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau wishes these outstanding students the best in their future endeavors. The Farm Bureau would also like to thank all of the individuals and local businesses who support this very successful program.
A list of scholarship sponsors for 2024 is available by clicking here.
State Legislative Conference
Members of the Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau recently attended the FARMER dinner and the State Legislative Conference in Harrisburg. While there they met with our elected officials to advocate for farmers and our rural way of life. They discussed issues such as wildlife crop damage, dairy production costs and solar farming.
Farmer’s Care Part 2
The Salem Community Church Food Pantry was the recipient of the second half of the “Farmers Care” Food Drive. The Western Wayne National Honor Society, in partnership with the Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau, collected approximately $1000 worth of food products for this pantry. The other half of the donation was delivered to the Honesdale Emergency Pantry on February 19.
The Salem Community Church Pantry began ten years ago and is administered by Jerry Peet and Valerie Pappas. Families struggling with food insecurity call for an appointment and are able to choose the foods they need. The church purchases beef and chicken which is provided to each family with the canned goods. At this time, the pantry is assisting 35 families, but they see the need growing in the community.
The “Farmers Care” program recognizes the commitment of farmers to producing healthy and affordable food for our communities.
Farm Bureau Participates in Farmer’s Care
A cooperative effort between the Western Wayne National Honor Society and the Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau yielded a substantial donation to the Honesdale Emergency Pantry.
This pantry works with local agencies such as VIP and Area Agency on Aging, to provide emergency supplies to families in urgent need. They operate with donations only, kindly given by churches, organizations and caring individuals.
National Honor Society students collected a large amount of non-perishable food items for Farm Bureau’s Farmers Care program. The collection was divided in two parts in order to support two local pantries.
Approximately one half ($750 worth) was delivered to the Emergency Pantry. To those items, Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau added a check for $200 to assist volunteers in purchasing supplies that typically run low.
The “Farmers Care” program recognizes the commitment of farmers to producing healthy and affordable food for our communities.
Farm Bureau Donates Books
The Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau recently donated the FARM-tastic book, “Polly and the Birth Day” to all public libraries and elementary schools in Wayne and Pike Counties.
Written by D.H. Anderson with beautiful illustrations by Steven Lester, the book features Polly, a retired racehorse who is very round and moves very slowly. It is learned that Polly is about to become a new mom. When the time arrives, Polly gives birth to a tiny filly who is given the name, Lady Thistle.
Based on a true story, this book is the first in a series about the adventures of a baby horse.
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau is committed to putting ag-accurate books in the hands of local children in order to teach them about what really happens on a farm.
Outstanding Woman in Ag
Wayne County’s own Bonnie LaTourette was selected Pennsylvania Farm Bureau’s “2023 Outstanding Woman in Ag” at the Bureau’s 73rd Annual Meeting in Hershey.
Bonnie has been a Farm Bureau member for 43 years. She and her husband Mark own Cabin Brook Farm in Torrey, where they are presently raising beef cattle.
The LaTourettes not only raised four children of their own, 2 girls and 2 boys, but opened their home to 63 foster children from 2004 – 2019.
Throughout her 43 years of Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau membership, Bonnie has worn many hats. She served as co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Committee, organizing events to promote agriculture such as recognizing the National Ag Day baby, FARM-tastic book donations to schools and libraries and Rural Roads Safety Week programs and displays.
Bonnie was elected 2nd Vice-President in 2015 and has attended numerous state annual meetings, advocating for policy changes for her local farmers. She is the chair of the Scholarship Committee and participates in Ag Literacy Week by reading ag-accurate books in grade school classrooms, to help children understand where their food and fiber comes from.
She served on the State Women’s Leadership Committee for 10 years, 8 of those years as the committee chair, where she helped to implement important programs such as goody bags for Collegiate Farm Bureau students and the Outstanding Woman in Ag award program.
There is no end to the list of activities that Bonnie participates in! Along with all of her Farm Bureau responsibilities, she is also active in her church and on the local Dairy Promotion Committee. With all of this, she is never too busy to lend a hand to someone in need.
Bonnie LaTourette is an example of someone who continuously strives to make a positive impact on the world around her. There is no one more deserving of the title “Outstanding Woman in Ag!”
Bonnie LaTourette Awarded
Bonnie LaTourette was honored with the local “Outstanding Woman in Ag” award at the Wayne/Pike Annual Fall Dinner on October 14.
President Tim Jaggars spoke about her long list of achievements and her unfailing dedication to both the Wayne/Pike and the Pennsylvania Farm Bureaus.
We wish her well in the state competition which will be held at the Hershey Annual Meeting on November 13.
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau Sponsors Farm Tour
Thirty five Farm Bureau members and friends gathered at Kim & Andrew’s Farm Market in Lake Ariel for a Legislative Farm Tour on August 16.
Owner Andrew Gadomski led the group through the vegetable fields and high tunnels of Grapevine Hill Farms, where produce of all kinds is grown for sale at the stand.
Legislators joining the tour were State Representative Joe Adams, Doug Miller, aide to Senator Rosemary Brown, and County Commissioners Brian Smith, Jocelyn Cramer and James Shook.
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau Sponsors Farm Tour
Andrew Gadomski of Kim & Andrew’s Farm Market will host a farm tour on August 16 from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Andrew will share the history of Grapevine Hill Farm and highlight the continuing progress which makes the farm successful today. The farm produces fruits and vegetables of all kinds along with honey and maple syrup.
A bagged lunch will be provided at no charge by Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau. To reserve lunch call Joyce Carson at 570-226-3864 by August 14.
Set your GPS for 884 Hamlin Hwy Lake Ariel, PA 18436 and join us for this interesting and informative tour.
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau Awards Scholarships
Three students were recently awarded the “Agriculture, the Heart of a Growing Wayne/Pike County” Scholarship by the Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau. The recipients were chosen on the basis of academic achievement, agriculture experience, career goals, extra-curricular activities and community service. Each of these students was given a check for $1500 to assist them with college expenses such as tuition, books and supplies.
Alyson Buchinski plans to study Environmental Science at Wilkes University. Her love of the outdoors has inspired her to become a water tester or soil scientist. As a student at Western Wayne High School, Alyson has participated in many extra-curricular activities such as the Tennis team, National Honor Society, Color Guard, Spanish Club, SADD and the CATS Club where she volunteered to help serve the homeless at the Keystone Mission. An active member of St. Mary’s Church in Waymart, she has been an altar server for three years and helps out with Vacation Bible School. She also volunteers with the Freedom Lodge #88 Odd Fellows assisting with events and participating in roadside cleanups.
Riley Mulberger will attend Bloomsburg University to pursue a career as a Nurse Anesthetist. Her extra-curriculars at Wallenpaupack High School include HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) where she competed at a state event placing second, which allowed her to move on to the HOSA National Finals in Nashville. Riley is a member of the National Honor Society, FBLA, SADD and the Local History Club. She has also participated on the Girls Swim team, the Varsity Softball team and served as manager of the Boys Varsity Soccer team. Growing up on a trout hatchery, Riley has spent many hours working with her father raising trout and stocking local lakes and streams. She volunteers at Youth Fishing Derbies and spends her summers working at Blooming Grove Hunting & Fishing Club as a camp counselor.
Mackenzie Weist will be attending Johnson College to pursue a degree in Veterinary Nursing (commonly called Vet Tech). A long time member of 4H, Mackenzie has raised and shown sheep, hogs, cattle and rabbits at the Wayne County Fair. She has helped with her club’s roadside cleanups and collected food for local animal shelters and community pantries. She also volunteered at a Dairy Day Camp where she taught young students how to monitor the health of a calf. She showed them how to prep the calf for the fair and taught them showmanship. At Western Wayne High School, Mackenzie is a member of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Club. When she’s not helping out on the family farm, Mackenzie works helping neighbors with chores such as house cleaning, lawn mowing, babysitting and pet sitting.
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau wishes these young women all the best in their future endeavors.
We would also like to thank the following sponsors, who through their generosity make this program possible.
Left to right: Tim Jaggars, Wayne/Pike President; Alyson Buchinski, Riley Mulberger, Mackenzie Weist and Bonnie LaTourette, Scholarship Committee Chair.
2023 Scholarship Sponsors
- Turano Insurance & Financial
- Marshall Machinery, Inc.
- St. Clair Graphics Inc.
- Residents of Lackawaxen Township, Pike County
- Smokin’ Joe’s Ice Cream Shoppe
- Jen Rutledge Materials
- Hawley Garage
- Wallenpaupack Veterinary Clinic
- Brian T. Kelly, CPA & Associates, LLC.
- Dirlam Bros. Lumber Co., Inc.
- Market 13 Deli
- Pioneer Construction Co., Inc.
- Knecht’s General Contracting Inc.
- Wallenpaupack Self Storage
- Murray Physical Therapy
- Arthur Ave. Italian Deli
- Jerry Birmelin, Former State Representative
- Wayne County Ready Mix Concrete
- Brian D. Chapman, Nationwide Insurance
- M & J Tire
- Mike Peifer, Former State Representative
- Honesdale National Bank
- Wayne County Lyme Disease Task Force
- Olsommer-Clarke Insurance Group, Inc.
- Jonathan Fritz, State Representative
- Roto-Rooter Plumbers
- Kizer’s Autobody
- Comprehensive Physical Therapy
- Platform Industries Custom Screen Printing
- The Dime Bank
- Lukan’s Farm Resort
- Baer Sport Center
- A. G. Howell, Wayne County District Attorney
- Cherry Ridge Veterinary Clinic
- Honesdale F & G
- Grossman Farms
- The Red Schoolhouse Restaurant
- Lake Region IGA
- Wayne Bank
- Dr. Robert E. Lesniak, Endodontic Specialists
- Creamworks
- Martin Caufield Memorial Works
- Teeters’ Furniture
- George W. Kinsman, Inc.
- Church Street Chiropractic
- Town & Country Energy Corp.
- Paul’s Custom Butchering, LLC
- Fun ‘N Game Farm
- Krupa Wealth Management
- Forest Care LLC.
- Edward Howell, Wayne County Coroner
- Lori’s Corner Kitchen
- Senator Lisa Baker
- Poltrock Painting
- BGM Fastener Co., Inc.
- Firmstone Fuels, Tire & Auto Service
- Wayne Memorial Hospital
- Vannie B. Williams, CPA, P. C.
- Honesdale Greenhouse & Flower Shop
- Bill Case Polaris
- North of the Border Fireworks
- Waymart Milling Co.
- Wayne County Ford
- Art’s For Him & Her Too
- Gries Runway Farm
- Carson Excavating
- Robinson Family Farm
- Bold Gold Media Group
- B & B Dodge
- Highhouse Energy
- Howell’s Towing & Recovery
- Honesdale Spreading
- A & B Homes, Inc.
- The Grodack Family
- Kmetz Nursery & Landscaping
- Robert J. Tugend, EA Tax & Accounting Service
- Sweet Sensation Cakes
- Robert & Dorothy Kieff
- The Alpine Wurst & Meat House
- Law Offices of Bugaj/Fischer
- Gloria’s Beauty Shop
- Central House Family Resort
- Honesdale Garage Door, LLC
- Case Tire Service Inc.
- Lindsey Equipment
- Locklin’s Bottled Gas, Inc.
- Clark’s Sunrise Market
- John Bonham Road Equipment & Supply
- United Metal Products Corp.
- Stephen’s Pharmacy/Northeast Med-Equip
- Nature’s Grace Health Foods & Deli
- David Bell Logging
- Why-Not Riding Stable
- Don Frick’s Lock Box
- Swing Valley Farm
- Sterling Upholstery Co., Inc.
- Cattle Creek Taxidermy
- Wallflower Fashions
- Scarfalloto’s Towne House Diner
- Dave Williams, Farm Country Radio
Wayne/Pike County Farm Bureau
Urges Safe Driving on Rural Roads
Rural Roads Safety Week was celebrated April 16 – 22 across Pennsylvania. The purpose of the week is to remind motorists to be aware that farmers are returning to their fields for spring planting. Large, slow-moving vehicles and equipment will be moving along the road to work fields at a distance from the farm.
Equipment traveling at 25 mph or less will display a Slow Moving Vehicle emblem (an orange triangle with a red border) on the back. Drivers are urged to be cautious around farm equipment and only pass when it is safe to do so.
Although Rural Roads Safety is promoted in the spring, motorists should be alert and watch for farm equipment through the summer and fall harvest seasons as well.
Patience and understanding will ensure that both farmers and motorists remain safe on Pennsylvania’s rural roadways.
Caption: Wayne/Pike Rural Roads Safety display in the Honesdale National Bank on Main St. Honesdale.
Farmers Care
The board of directors of the Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau presented the Honesdale Emergency Pantry with a check for $300 along with $50 worth of non-perishable foods and paper products.
This pantry relies solely on donations made by the community. They work with other county agencies to provide emergency supplies to families in urgent need. Farm Bureau supports the pantry’s quest to care for those in need of food.
Left to right: Farm Bureau Representative Joyce Carson, Pantry Volunteer Linda Granquist and Pantry Treasurer, Mary Murray. Missing from the photo is Carole Grodack, Farmers Care Chairperson.
National Ag Day
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau marked National Ag Day by recognizing the first baby born in Wayne Memorial Hospital on that day. Annabelle Thumann was born to proud parents, Natalie Gawron and Ryan Thumann on March 21, 2023.
The Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee presented the happy family with a basket containing local products: Rutledge eggs, Bialecki lettuce, Nebzydoski maple syrup, Tuttle honey and Calkin’s Creamery cheese. Also added to the basket was a package of pancake mix and the FARM-tastic children’s book, “Barn at Night.”
National Ag Day is celebrated each year in recognition of the essential role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products for our use. Everything we eat, use or wear each day is provided to us through some form of agriculture.
Left to right: Ryan Thumann holding little Annabelle, Natalie Gawron and Bonnie LaTourette, Farm Bureau Women’s Committee Chair.
Golden Owl Award Presented
On February 22, the PA State FFA officers made a surprise visit to Honesdale High School to award Ag Teacher, Mrs. Kayla Pohle with the Northern Region Golden Owl Award.
Sponsored by PA Farm Bureau, FFA and Nationwide Insurance, the Golden Owl recognizes exceptional educators from around the state who have made a lasting contribution to the agricultural community in their area.
With her dynamic teaching style, Mrs. Pohle inspires her students to excel in whatever facet of agriculture piques their interest. Whether it’s forestry, livestock, horticulture, hydroponics or diesel mechanics, Mrs. Pohle’s students learn real solutions to real–life problems. When they leave her classroom and their high school days behind, they are well equipped to be the leaders of tomorrow.
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau is grateful to Mrs. Kayla Pohle for restoring hope to the ag community through her students. Her positive impact in Wayne County’s only FFA Chapter will be felt through many generations of agriculture enthusiasts.
Left to right: Farm Bureau Representatives Tim Jaggars, Joyce Carson and Bob Perhacs, State FFA Officers surrounding Mrs. Pohle and Nationwide Representative, Paul Meagher, Jr.
Farm Bureau Donates Children’s Books
The Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau recently donated the children’s book, “From Seed to Plant” to all public libraries in Wayne and Pike Counties.
Written by Gail Gibbons, the book features colorful illustrations which explain the parts of plants, the variety of seeds and how the seeds grow.
In simple language, the processes of pollination, seed formation and germination are clearly explained for young minds from Kindergarten to 3rd grade.
At it’s conclusion, the book presents a plant growing experiment for students to try at home.
This educational book can also be found in all elementary school libraries in Wayne and Pike counties through continuing donation by the Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau.
Library representatives gathered at the Wayne County Public Library to accept their books.
Left to right: Jenny Snyder, Pleasant Mount Library; Lynn Scramuzza, Hamlin Community Library; Betty Lawson, Children’s Librarian for the Wayne County Public Library; Sue George, Hawley Public Library; Bonnie LaTourette, Farm Bureau Womens’ Leadership Chair and Pat Nelson, Bethany Public Library.
Commissioners Recognize Williams
The Wayne County Commissioners honored Dave Williams of Farm Country Radio with a Certificate of Appreciation for his 25 years of supporting agriculture with his radio program.
His dedication to farmers is exhibited in his interviews with government officials like the PA Secretary of Agriculture, Congressmen and State Representatives mingled with local farmers of every kind discussing their issues with weather, markets and prices. His focus is, and has always been, improving the lives of the farmers who continue to work the land, raise the livestock and grow the crops that we all depend on for survival.
Dave’s radio shows are broadcast every day on Wayne/Pike News Radio (104.3 FM, 101.9 PM and 1590 AM). Tune in and you might hear your farmer neighbors describing their farming operations along with their struggles and triumphs as they care for their crops and animals each and every day.
Pictures left to right: Commissioner Jocelyn Cramer, Dave Williams, Commissioner Brian Smith and Commissioner Jim Shook.
Congressman Cartwright Receives Award
The Wayne-Pike Farm Bureau presented the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Friend of Farm Bureau award to Congressman M
att Cartwright on November 4, 2022 at the farm of John Trapper and Annie Martzen.
The award is given each congressional session to representatives and senators who have supported Farm Bureau policy, as shown by their voting records; nominated by the respective state Farm Bureau and approved by the American Farm Bureau Board of Directors.
Shown left to right are longtime Farm Bureau member Don Salak, Congressman Cartwright and Tim Jaggars, Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau President.
Bialecki Farms to Host Farm Tour
The Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau will hold a farm tour from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on August 18 at Bialecki Farms in northern Wayne County.
Stan and Amy Bialecki have combined traditional growing methods with modern, hydroponic growing to provide fresh, local vegetables for the community. Their lettuce varieties in particular, are clean and free from insects as a result of their hydroponic growing methods.
The Bialecki’s maintain a farm stand on their property as well as attend multiple farmers’ markets each week.
The public is invited to attend. A bagged lunch will be provided at no charge. Reservations are requested and can be made by calling Joyce Carson at (570) 226 – 3864 by August 13.
Set your GPS for 3299 Wrighter Lake Rd. Thompson, PA 18465 and join us for this fun and informative tour.
Honesdale FFA Presentation
The Honesdale FFA presented the topic of “Fracking” to the directors as practice for the National Ag Issues Forum Competition in October. Each student represented a different member of the community, both for and against drilling for natural gas. They fielded questions from the board which added to their knowledge of the issue.
Farm Bureau Awards Scholarships
The Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau is proud to announce the recipients of the “Agriculture, The Heart of a Growing Wayne-Pike County” Scholarship.
The winners were chosen on the basis of academic achievement, agriculture experience, career goals, extra-curricular activities and community service. An essay question asked the students to describe how the agricultural industry enhances the quality of life for the residents of Wayne and Pike Counties.
Each of these students was awarded a check for $1000 to assist them with college expenses such as tuition, books and supplies.
The Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau congratulates all of these students and wishes them the best in their future endeavors.
The board of directors wishes to thank Turano Insurance and all the other sponsors of this program who make this scholarship possible.
To read more about each scholar and a list of our generous sponsors click here.
Ag Day at the Fairgrounds
Photo left: The Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau focused on “Safety” for their display at Ag Day. This simulator exhibited the dangers of working near a running PTO shaft. Jim Barbour demonstrates how quickly a person can be injured by leaving a machine running while off the tractor.
Photo right: Stan Bialecki was available to answer questions at the Farm Bureau booth.
National Ag Day
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau marked National Ag Day by recognizing the first baby born on that day. In the wee hours of March 22, 2022, Justin Lancaster, Jr. was born to proud parents, Nicole and Justin Lancaster, Sr.
The Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee presented the happy family with a basket containing a baby blanket and diapers, as well as some locally produced farm products such as maple syrup, honey and various cheeses.
National Ag Day is celebrated each year in recognition of the essential role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products for our use. Everything we eat, use or wear each day is provided to us through some form of agriculture.
Caption: Mr. & Mrs. Lancaster with son, Justin.
Farm Bureau Promotes Ag Literacy
Ag Literacy Week, a program sponsored by PA Farm Bureau, was celebrated throughout the state from March 14 – 18. In Wayne and Pike Counties, approximately 90 classrooms of K – 2nd grade students took part.
Volunteers from several local agriculture organizations treated the children to a reading of My Family’s Soybean Farm. Written by Katie Olthoff with illustrations by Joe Hox, the book details the day to day activities on a soybean farm. The story highlights how plants grow, the nutrients they need to grow and the methods by which they are harvested.
Following the reading, students participated in a learning activity related to the story. The volunteer readers donated a book to each classroom so they may be enjoyed again and again.
Caption: Volunteer Maureen Mouton reads to a Kindergarten class at the Damascus Elementary School.
Spring Scholarship Dinner
Saturday, April 09, 2022 7:00 PM
Park Street Complex, Honesdale, PA
Lester Stinnard of Market 13 will cater a roast beef and fried chicken dinner.
Cost: $20 per person
Reservations: Joyce Carson 570-226-3864
RSVP by: Friday, April 1, 2022.
Scholarships will be awarded at this meeting.
Students Receive Jackets
Students from the Honesdale FFA received their official blue corduroy jackets from the Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau on February 8.
A total of eight jackets were sponsored by county Farm Bureaus; five from Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau and three from Susquehanna County Farm Bureau.
Left to right: FFA Advisor, Kayla Pohle; Channing Rutledge, Jeremy Howey, Paige Gries, Jeanine Busnel, Sydney Roberts and Tim Jaggars, Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau President. Absent from photo and receiving jackets from Susquehanna County Farm Bureau are: Alex Hiller, Kara Fries and Olyvea Burke.
Farmers Care
A cooperative effort between the Western Wayne National Honor Society and the Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau yielded a $1000 donation to the Honesdale Emergency Pantry.
This pantry works with local agencies such as VIP and Area Agency on Aging, to provide emergency supplies to families in urgent need. They operate with donations only, kindly given by churches, organizations and caring individuals.
National Honor Society students collected approximately $800 worth of non-perishable food items for Farm Bureau’s Farmers Care program.
To those items, the Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau added a check for $200 to assist volunteers in purchasing needed supplies that typically run low.
The Farmers Care program recognizes the commitment of farmers to producing healthy and affordable food for our communities.
Left to right: Zoey Goldman, Western Wayne Senior; Carole Grodack, Farmers Care Coordinator; Sharon Herzog, Pantry Director; Mary Murray, Pantry Volunteer and Joyce Carson, Farm Bureau Secretary.
Librarians Receive Farm-tastic Books
The Farm-tastic book of 2022 is Barn at Night written by Michelle Houts and beautifully illustrated by Jen Betton.
The book depicts a peaceful winter scene before dawn with a father and daughter arriving at the barn to care for their animals. A rhyming verse follows the pair as they work together feeding each different type of animal in the barn and finding a surprise new arrival in the hay.
In pursuit of their mission to provide ag accurate books to children, the Wayne-Pike Farm Bureau recently donated this book to all public libraries and elementary schools in Wayne and Pike Counties.
Standing – Jenny Snyder, Pleasant Mount Library; Betty Lawson, Children’s Librarian for the Wayne County Public Library and Allison Mowatt, Northern Wayne Library.
Seated – Joyce Carson, Farm Bureau Secretary; Tracy Schwarz, Wayne Library Alliance and Bonnie LaTourette, Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Chair. Missing from the photo: Kate Baxter, Bethany Public Library; Kristina Russo, Newfoundland Public Library; Amy Keane, Hawley Public Library and Lynn Scramuzza, Hamlin Community Library
PFB Honors Dave Williams
Wayne County’s own, Dave Williams, was presented with the Barn Raiser Award at the PA Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Hershey.
The Barn Raiser Award has only been given out 14 times in 71 years. It recognizes individuals who have devoted a lifetime of exemplary service advocating for PA agriculture. Through his local radio show, his programs on RFD-TV and his newest affiliation with the PCN television network, Dave has spent 20 years telling the story of agriculture and introducing us to the people who live it day in and day out.
The Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau applauds Dave’s achievement and is grateful for his dedicated leadership in the ag community.
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau Holds Farm Tour
Wayne/Pike Farm Bureau recently held a Legislative Farm Tour at the Paupack Blueberry Farm in Pike County. Owners Bobby and Carol Morgan walked participants through the blueberry fields while explaining the particulars of blueberry production on their U-pick operation.