Rep. Bud Cook announced on Apr. 14 that the fourth annual Blessing of the Balers and ‘May is Beef Month’ celebration will take place Tuesday, May 5, at the State Capitol in Harrisburg.
The event aims to honor Pennsylvania’s agricultural workers and mark the start of a new growing season with prayers for safety and success. Cook said, “Our farmers are among the hardest working people in Pennsylvania, and we want to support them as they begin another growing season. The agriculture industry is the number one industry in Pennsylvania. Without farmers, there is no food on our tables, no clothing in our closets, and no foundation for so many of the industries that depend on their labor and expertise.”
The tradition began when Joseph Krampy experienced trouble with his farming equipment until a priest offered a prayer over it, after which it started working again. Cook added, “Farmers spend a lot of time praying. Half of the time they’re praying for rain and half of the time they’re praying for it not to rain. They also have to consider other variables such as timing and equipment that can make or break a season. So, it’s fitting that we take a moment to pray for them and the work they do.”
Cook represents Greene and Washington counties according to his official website. He holds several committee roles including Republican secretary to the Agriculture Committee; chair of the Republican Subcommittee on Marketing within Tourism; member of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; Environmental Resources and Energy; as well as Tourism committees according to his official website. Cook also leads initiatives like ‘Come Home, Go Big and Have a Ball’ aimed at drawing residents to southwest Pennsylvania according to his official website.
The event will feature remarks from Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding; Tom Logan from Pennsylvania Cattlemen’s Association; Rev. Donald Wilson offering blessings; tractors and balers displays; participation from members of local cattle associations; along with refreshments provided by PennAg.
Cook serves as state representative for Pennsylvania’s 50th Legislative District according to his official website, bringing more than three decades’ experience as a self-employed business owner focused on job creation according to his official website.
