Carbondale Reporter

The Illinois Farm Bureau recently endorsed state Rep. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, in her re-election bid recently during the Murphysboro Apple Fest.

The Farm Bureau also honored her as a Friend of Agriculture.

Jackson County Farm Bureau Manager Jessica Grammer presented the award to Bryant.

"Agriculture is Illinois' number one industry," Bryant said as she accepted her Friend of Agriculture award. "Southern Illinois' farmers grow the food that feeds the world.”

Bryant also expressed her gratitude for the Illinois Farm Bureau's support of her re-election bid.

“It is a tremendous honor for me to receive the Friend of Agriculture award and to be endorsed for re-election by the Farm Bureau,”Bryant said.

Bryant said certain crops power Illinois' status as a top producer globally. Bryant also said the climate in Southern Illinois makes for an ideal environment to cultivate grapes.

"The farmers in my district grow some of the best beans, corn and wheat in the world," Bryant said. "The climate for grape cultivation in Southern Illinois places us among the number one regions in the entire world for grape growing and wine production.”

Bryant said the region's wines have won international competitions. Apart from the excellent climate and lush soil, Bryant said the farmers are the true force behind the region's agricultural successes.

“Our wineries win international competitions for their wines," Bryant said. "Southern Illinois is blessed with fertile soil and hard-working family farmers. Having the support of the agricultural community means the world to me. I want to thank the Illinois Farm Bureau and all of its members for their continued support.”

Democrat Marsha Griffin and Dan Silver of the Green Party are challenging Bryant. The 115th district covers Washington, Jefferson, Perry, Jackson and Union counties.