PEORIA MAGAZINE March 2022

S E E D A N D S O I L

I introduce myself as a farmer. I do this knowing that not many realize what that actually means anymore. Some people view farmers as awhimsical “Ol’ McDonald” type of character, going out every morning to milk a cow and collect some eggs before he grabs a hoe to plant his corn. This image is then challenged as they pass gigantic farm equipment while driving down the interstate. Others view farmers as monsters who openly want to hurt animals or destroy the environment, as portrayed in biased documentaries or media accounts. This image is then challenged as they meet an actual farmer or take a drive in the country. Just like in any industry, there are good folks and there are bad folks. So, when I introduce myself as a farmer, I am always curious what people think. I likenfarmerstorestaurantowners.With the latter, you have a general knowledge of what they do. You can visit their place BY ROB SHARKEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRAND VALE CREATIVE THE FARM REPORT: TILLING A VISION FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS Whippersnappers may have something to teach us Ol’ McDonalds, after all

THE FAMILY FARM. Emily and Rob Sharkey at their Bradford farm

10 MARCH 2022 PEORIA MAGAZINE