From the President

Greetings Farmers and Friends of Farmers,

I am Cathy Cosgrove, Calvert County Farm Bureau’s current President.  I own and operate Horsmon Farm with my husband, JR Cosgrove, and kids Kaitlyn and Wesley. Our family run farm operations include direct sales of several products including beef, pork, seasonal produce, mums, pumpkins, hay, and straw.  During the summer, we offer a subscription program of our meats and local produce.  In the spring and fall we run agritourism based activities for the community to come learn about and enjoy our farm.  I have been involved with the Calvert County Farm Bureau (CCFB) for as long as I can remember.  I was the 1994 Calvert County Farm Queen, a member of the Young Farmers and served as CCFB secretary for several years.  I have participated in agricultural education programs such as LEAD Maryland and Annie’s Project.

The CCFB has been working hard this year to get several tasks accomplished.  In January, we hosted a Coffee and Conversation with our local and state government officials held at Waters Memorial United Methodist Church.  The informal event proved a huge success and allowed for engaging discussions on topics affecting farmers and our community.  The event was attended by many Commissioners, some state Delegates and many who were running for office.

In March, the CCFB board of directors elected a new Secretary, Monica Jost.  She has been a huge asset to our team. She is very experienced, a great communicator and always up for a challenge.

In June, Board member Suzi Gibson hosted the CCFB annual picnic at her place, Bowensville Farm and Nursery.  This covered dish event was a great day to relax and enjoy the company of our fellow farmers.  The food was amazing!  Pulled pork was the highlight cooked by board member, Donnie Bowen.  Activities included disk golf, swimming, corn hole and ladder ball.  Everyone who attended was able to leave with a beautiful potted plant from our gracious host.

Our fundraising committee held a Farm to Table Dinner in July to raise money for scholarships and agriculture leadership.  Sassafras Farm was the most beautiful setting for the event.  Many aspects of local agriculture were featured from a signature cocktail featuring local bourbon to local vegetables, beef, seafood and even locally sourced centerpieces.  Our local chefs, Trish Weaver and Gwyn Novak made masterpieces from the ingredients they procured.  The event was well attended with approximately 130 attendees and raised over $5000 for our cause.

This year the CCFB awarded a $1500 scholarship each to Hutch Valentin and Jane Hance.  Both recipients offered a well written essay and outstanding support of agriculture.

I am excited and honored to be leading this great organization and I look forward to continuing to serve my agriculture community.

Warmest Regards,

Cathy Cosgrove