Spring Fever!
The warm temperatures over the weekend were surely a welcomed occurrence. The way the grass has grown, the leaves have popped and the rhubarb has seemed to explode with the warm weather, it finally feels like spring. And, I have to admit, I am anxiously awaiting the harvest of those tender stalks to make our first rhubarb dump cake of the season, or that first batch of fresh jam!
With the sunshine and warm temps, it is that time of year; spring fever has struck. It is great to see the longer days, the kids out and about on their bikes or out playing ball, residents out power walking on the sidewalks and country roadways, and families out working in their yards and gardens. The warmer temps have people out riding their motorcycles, and farmers are out working in the fields.
It is also the time of year to be extra-alert on the roadways! Time to be alert and watching for those walking, riding their bikes, the excited youngster who may chase a ball into the street, those hard-to-see motorcycles, and the slow-moving tractors and equipment as farmers move from field to field to plant and tend to their crops. There is never a time for distracted driving, especially now. Please, stay alert and keep everyone safe.
Also, remember to give that farm equipment plenty of space on the roads. Do not pass in unsafe areas when farm equipment and trucks may me turning into a driveway, roadway, field approach, or turning out to clear a mailbox. Remember, it is easier for you to see the equipment than for the driver to see you. Again, be alert, be cautious, be smart and be safe!
Spring brings us Earth Day, which is observed tomorrow, April 22. For farmers, everyday is earth day, as we strive to take care of crops, livestock and land, to feed a growing, hungry world population. Farmers are the original recyclers, and we rely on science, technology and good old common sense to constantly improve our products and methods to increase safety, abundance and to protect our limited and precious resources.
Spring also brings the Minnesota FFA Convention, to be held this Sunday through Tuesday, April 24-26. Congratulations to the 37 Tri-City United FFA members (more than half of the entire chapter membership!) who have worked and studied so diligently and have earned the right to compete at the state Career Development Event (CDE) contests. The TCU chapter had every CDE team that competed in the region contests qualify for state, with several bringing home first-place, championship honors. Job well done, students, and best wishes at State!
