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 those working in agriculture and to offer prayers for a safe and successful growing season. Agriculture is described as Pennsylvania’s leading industry, making this recognition significant for many communities across the state.
“Our farmers are among the hardest working people in Pennsylvania, and we want to support them as they begin another growing season,” Cook said. “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 Blessing of the Balers began after Joseph Krampy experienced trouble with his farming equipment until a Catholic priest prayed over it, which led to its repair. Cook said, “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 serves as Republican secretary to the Agriculture Committee; chairs the Republican Subcommittee on Marketing within Tourism; serves on committees related to Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Environmental Resources and Energy, Tourism and Economic Development; leads an initiative called ‘Come Home, Go Big and Have a Ball’ aimed at drawing residents back to southwest Pennsylvania; holds office as State Representative for District 50; operates as a self-employed business owner with over three decades’ experience in job creation—all according to his official biography.
This year’s celebration begins at 11:30 a.m., just behind the Capitol building on Commonwealth Avenue. The event will feature remarks from Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding; Tom Logan from Pennsylvania Cattlemen’s Association; Rev. Donald Wilson who will deliver this year’s blessing; displays of tractors and balers; participation from members of local agricultural associations; plus milkshakes provided by PennAg.
