Rapides Farm Bureau Takes Top Parish Honor

By Allie Doise, Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation

NEW ORLEANS — Rapides Parish Farm Bureau took home this year’s President’s Award, the top honor awarded by the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, during its 95th annual convention late June.

Rapides Farm Bureau Parish President Bill Cheek accepted the award on behalf of the parish membership from Louisiana Farm Bureau President Ronnie Anderson. 

The award is the highest honor bestowed during the farm group’s annual convention and topped a list of award winners that included the state’s Young Farmer and Rancher Achievement Award, the Outstanding Young Farm Woman award, the Excellence in Agriculture award and the Young Farmer and Rancher Discussion Meet winner.

Cheek said being selected against all the parishes eligible is something of which they are very proud.

“Just to be able to represent our parish was an honor,” Cheek said. “We’re so versatile as far as our agriculture goes. We have about everything, so we’re proud of that also.”

While Cheek is happy to have won, he said it didn’t come easy.

“We’ve always tried to do our best, but it just wasn’t enough in the past,” he said. “So we went to work and got it done the time.”

The parish is very active in covering its events and advocating for farmers and ranchers throughout the year.

Cheek said he has no intention to stop striving to be on top.

“We’re not going to slow down,” he said. “This is what we’re supposed to do.”

Rapides Farm Bureau delegates celebrate winning the 2017 Louisiana Farm Bureau President's Trophy.

The President’s Award recognizes outstanding contributions to Louisiana agriculture by the volunteer leadership and its members. Rapides parish was among 61 parish Farm Bureaus recognized for their efforts this year.