2020 Farm Forum Speaker – Embrace the Journey
Life is a challenge. The fact is, the current farming economy is tough; perhaps tougher financially than ever. Financial stress is devastating; there should be no shame with mental uncertainty tied to being a producer. Our 2020 Farm Forum keynote speaker, Mark Potter and his wife Nanette have dealt with severe depression and mental challenges. Mark brings motivation, transformation, and new attitudes that get you thinking; helping with the daily grind of “business as usual.” Learn to love what you do with practical ideas about mindset changes.
Farmers and ranchers are unique business owners with unique types of challenges and stresses. In an article by Maureen Hanson in the June, 2019 Dairy Herd Management, Hanson wrote, “Farmers are, by nature, independent, optimistic, proud, resilient and strong. But the perfect storm of historically terrible weather, prolonged market weakness, global trade wars and more, is driving some farmers to the breaking point. In a recent national poll sponsored by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), 91% of farmers surveyed said financial issues were affecting their mental health, followed closely by farm or business problems (88%) and fear of losing the farm (87%). Other factors included stress, weather, the economy, isolation and social stigma.”
Let’s all embrace a healthier attitude about seeking help and show our farmers and ranchers the strength of community. The McPherson Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Committee will host the Farm Forum on Monday, February 24th at 6:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church. Tickets are $15 per person, for the presentation and evening meal catered by Knackies Meats & Sweets. Tickets are required to attend and must be purchased by February 20th at the Chamber office, at 306 N. Main.
We hope you will join us for this powerful presentation. We will also be recognizing Gary & Eileen Patrick as the 2019 Farm Family, and the McPherson County Fire Departments will be the 2019 Friend of Agriculture honorees.