Giving back: Stor-Loc toolbox auction to benefit FFA at Half Century of Progress Show

RANTOUL, Ill. — Visitors at the Half Century of Progress will have a chance to bid on three Stor-Loc toolboxes and support the future of agriculture at the same time.

An auction to raise money for FFA is set for 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, in the Entertainment Tent.

“This started back in 2023 with Stor-Loc wanting to help the show and FFA,” said Larry Barry, I&I Antique Tractor Club member and Half Century of Progress planning committee member.

“They generously donated one toolbox. It was bought by Randall Brothers out of Ohio.”

This year, the company donated three toolboxes.

“The two smaller ones are John Deere and International colors,” Barry said. “We hope we’ll get a little bidding war between those two.

“The showcase is the large blue and yellow FFA toolbox, which we’ll sell last. All the proceeds go to FFA in Illinois and Indiana.”

Specifically, proceeds will be split:

• 40% — Illinois FFA.

• 40% — Indiana FFA.

• 10% — winning bidder’s local FFA.

• 10% — contending bidder’s local FFA.

Three state officers from Indiana and three state officers from Illinois will attend the event on Saturday, as well as several local officers, Barry said.

Stor-Loc toolboxes are made in Kankakee and are 100% American-made. The company has a long tradition of supporting local organizations, including FFA chapters and fire departments.

“We want to really thank the people of Stor-Loc for all they’ve done not only for the show, but for FFA,” Barry said.

“They’re a great company with a great product. They’ll have a booth at the event — come check them out.”

The Half Century of Progress Show runs Aug. 21-24 at the Rantoul National Aviation Center.