|
 He held that position from 1981-1985 under President Ronald
Reagan, where he played a key role in the development of the
1985 Farm Bill.
Growing up on a farm in Knox County, Illinois, Block
participated in 4-H and FFA and showed Duroc hogs at the county
and Illinois State Fair. His passion for agriculture runs deep
in his roots.
In 2012 legislation was passed to rename the Illinois Department
of Agriculture (IDOA) administration building the John R. Block
building. Former Representatives Raymond Poe and Don Moffitt and
Representative Tim Butler were instrumental in helping to get
signage on the front of the IDOA building designating it as the
“John R. Block” building.
With today’s unveiling, a plaque with his likeness is now
located inside the IDOA building where employees and visitors
can see it as they enter for meetings in the auditorium.
“John Block played a significant role in
agriculture—first in Illinois, then in Washington, DC and
ultimately across the entire country,” said John Sullivan,
Director, Illinois Department of Agriculture.
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“Secretary Block set the bar high as a leader,
educator, and fighter for agriculture, and I’m honored to a part of
the dedication as we present this plaque to him.”
“It’s a privilege to be part of this occasion to
recognize Secretary Block for his accomplishments,” said Moffitt,
former Representative and former Assistant Director of IDOA. “Mr.
Block is from my area of the state and it has been amazing to see
his passion for agriculture and the path it has taken him on.”
“I am humbled and appreciative of the effort of all those involved
for this recognition,” said Block. “All of my accomplishments have
been a labor of love for agriculture, beginning with my roots in the
wonderful black soil of Illinois.”
[Morgan Booth] |
