The Prairie Central Upper Elementary gymnasium was filled with exhibitors and visitors Saturday during the annual PC FFA Farm and Home Show in Forrest.
Various businesses in the area showcased products and services while plenty of creativity was on display.
Mark Hartman, an owner of Bapo’s Treats and All American Wash, said his family did something a little different this year.
“In the past, we did a small replica of our car wash and this year, we built a replica of our Bapo’s building and they have a chance to order their own ice cream,” explained Hartman.
This is a busy time for All American Wash, which has two locations in Fairbury, as motorists look to wash the salt off of their vehicles. Bapo’s plans to open in early April at their Fairbury location along Route 24 for the upcoming spring and summer ice cream season.
Nate Addis of Addis Auto Parts/NAPA Fairbury and NAPA Gilman was thinking ahead to mowing season with a display of mowers at the Farm and Home Show. He brought out a Ferris 6200 and 2200. Addis sells Ferris and Stihl mowers and products along with Aluma, Delta and Haulmark trailers. Addis is heading into the third year operating the Gilman location in addition to Fairbury.
“It’s been a great experience with the expansion and getting into different lines,” said Addis. “All my guys are doing great with everything.”
Addis has plenty of lawn mowing solutions for everyone from the small homeowner to the bigger industrial customers.
Leman Builders had a display on the north end of the gym Saturday. The general contractor does mostly residential work but does commercial work as well.
“We did the interior office of the Sealtite building and we are currently in the process of finishing the office space for Steidinger Brothers plumbing that is next door,” Leman Builders President Jason Leman said. “We are also working on the interior finishing for the new Kilgus Dairy store out on the south side of town.”
Leman Builders specializes in new homes, additions and remodels mainly in the Prairie Central area. Much of their design work is done in-house.
They displayed beams from the Kilgus project at the Farm and Home Show and also displayed past projects they have done. Leman said he enjoyed visiting with past and future clients.
Lifewise Academy had an exhibit complete with animals and characters. Jesus the shepherd was watching over the sheep.
“Kids can come out and play with the lamb then Jesus is the shepherd for us as we follow,” noted Lifewise teacher Denver Rassi.
Rassi says this was great for kids at the show.
Lifewise provides Bible education during school hours for kids of various ages. The effort started in Ohio and is now nationwide. More information can be found at www.lifewise.org.
