Rep. Bud Cook hosted the fourth annual Blessing of the Balers and ‘May is Beef Month’ celebration at the Pennsylvania Capitol on May 5. The event brought together farmers, agricultural leaders, supporters, legislators, and students to mark the start of a new growing season.
The gathering aimed to highlight agriculture as Pennsylvania’s leading industry and to offer prayers for safety and success in farming activities. “Given how much farmers depend on timing, weather and equipment, it’s only fitting that we pause to pray for them as they begin a new growing season,” Cook said.
Cook explained that his inspiration for the Blessing of the Balers came from a story in Greene County where a prayer over malfunctioning farm equipment led to its successful operation. “We value the hard work our farmers put in every day,” Cook said. “Our farmers work long hours in the field to put food on our tables, clothes on our back, and countless essentials in our homes. We’re proud to support them as they carry out this important work.”
Bill Devore, president of the Pennsylvania Cattlemen’s Association, addressed attendees about supporting beef producers: “With 8,000 farms supporting upwards of 37,000 different jobs, that fuels the economy,” Devore said. “Moving forward it’s the young people that are going to carry the torch forward and we support that whole heartedly.” Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding presented an official proclamation for May is Beef Month: “There are many folks who make this industry what it is,” Redding said. “It’s part of our identity as a state. We’re lucky to live in a state that sees agriculture as a critical part of our past, but importantly an amazing part of our future.” Rev. Donald Wilson returned again this year to lead prayers: “I grew up on a farm, and it’s important to remind everyone that we are dependent on God; we need to seek his blessing,” Wilson said.
To further recognize agriculture’s importance and tradition celebrated through Blessing of the Balers Day on May 5 was officially recognized by resolution unanimously approved by House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee.
Cook represents Greene and Washington counties; he holds several committee roles including Republican secretary for Agriculture Committee; chairs Republican Subcommittee on Marketing under Tourism Committee; serves also with Environmental Resources & Energy plus Tourism & Economic Development committees; leads initiatives such as ‘Come Home Go Big Have A Ball’ promoting southwest region residency; operates his own business with over three decades experience creating jobs—all according to the official website.
