Maryland Barn Among Top Ten Finalists In Renovation Contest

Cast your vote each day at: http://www.helpgrowyoursoup.com/barn_waitsee.aspx

The Just Wait and See Farm in Union Bridge, Maryland, is among the top ten finalists of a national barn preservation program sponsored by Campbell’s Soup.

Jay, Jodi and Dalton Mackenzie live on the farm they purchased in 2006. The bank barn in need of renovation was built in 1856 and has stored hay and grain on the upper level and cows and horses on the lower level. They operate a 125-head beef cattle farm and raise corn, soybeans and hay.

“Restoring this barn that is located in a very traditional farming community would help bring an already strong community together for a common cause,” said Colby Ferguson, agriculture specialist with the Frederick County Office of Economic Development. “A well-kept farm and attractive neighborhoods are important. Supporting and helping to sustain agriculture, especially farming and open space, is a priority of the local government and Office of Economic Development. Restoring this barn would help preserve it for the next generation.”

The Campbell’s Help Grow Your Soup program is not only reviving American barns, it is also providing educational opportunities to future leaders in agriculture by donating $1 for each vote cast (up to $250,000) to the National FFA Organization. Dalton Mackenzie is a member of the Linganore FFA Chapter.

Voting began on October 1st and runs through January 5, 2010. The top five barns receiving the most votes will be renovated by the Campbell’s Soup Company.

To cast your ballot, go to www.helpgrowyoursoup.com or go directly to Mackenzie’s Barn at www.helpgrowyoursoup.com/barn_waitsee.aspx and click on “vote.”

You may vote once a day for the duration of the contest and you can watch the progress for Just Wait and See Farm.