A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

South DakotaUnion Farmer

Volume XCVII, NO. 6 Huron, SD July/August 2014

South DakotaUnion FarmerSouth DakotaSouth DakotaVolume XCVII, NO. 6 Huron, SD July/August 2014

South DakotaSouth Dakota

see State Camp on page 9

Getting to Know Dallis Basel

PAGE 14

39 Years of Service

PAGE 5

National YouthLeadership

Council

PAGE 13

This summer Farmers Union staff have been busy meeting with members across South Dakota. This youngster attended the Rootbeer Social hosted by Farmers Union during the Summer Spotlight, South Dakota State Fairgrounds, Huron.

To join with the United Nations in celebrating the International Year of Family Farming, South Dakota Farmers Union will be highlighting a South Dakota farm or ranch family each month.

This month South Dakota Farmers Union features the Nagel family of Gettysburg, S.D. The farm family operates a cow/calf and backgrounding operation as well as raises corn, wheat, soybeans, sunfl owers, alfalfa and other forage crops. Today, two generations – seven families in all - work together and continue to farm the land their great-grandfather plowed up in 1907.

Who the family and their farm are today was shaped by the early death of John Adam Nagel in 1956. By this time, the farm had grown to encompass more than 1,000 acres of land in Potter County. At the time of his death, John Adam’s oldest son, Herman was 18. Many didn’t think he, his fi ve teen brothers and one sister were capable enough to manage such a large farming operation.

The brothers knew better. With staunch determination and a passion for the land, they worked together day and night to keep their family’s farm.

More than 60 years later, their now grown children join them in raising crops and livestock. With a strong foundation of hard work, determination and selfl essness, the Nagel farm remains in the family. It is four generations old and growing strong.

South Dakota Farmers Union Celebrates South Dakota Farm & Ranch Families

Rural youth from 27 counties across South Dakota attended the South Dakota Farmers Union 2014 State Leadership Camp held at Storm Mountain Center just outside Rapid City.

During the week-long camp, youth who have completed the seventh grade through high school developed leadership and communication skills as they organize and operate fi ve cooperative businesses.

They also learned about the Farmers Union, other cooperative businesses, participated in leadership workshops, listened to guest speakers and participated in talent night. A tour of the Black Hills, hiking, volleyball, basketball and fun cooperative games completed the camp experience and left campers with lasting memories and many new friends, explained Jackie Dethlefsen, a 2014 graduate of Stickney Public High School.

see Nagel Family on page 10

Farmers Union Leadership Camp a Success!

Union Farmer

2 July/August 2014 www.sdfu.orgUnion Farmer

Clip and Save Calendar

Visit the Events section at www.sdfu.org for more details on upcoming events.

August5 Dr. Temple Grandin, Watertown

5 GFP Annual Meeting, Pierre

16 District I Meeting, Delmont

20 District IV Meeting, Presho

29 Governor & Senator Debate, SD State Fair

30 Farmers Union Day, SD State Fair

30 Quiz Bowl, SD State Fair

September1 State Offi ce Closed

7-10 NFU Fall Fly-In

16-17 State Board Meeting, Huron

17 County Councilors, Huron

19-20 SDBIC Annual Meeting, Beef Bowl, Brookings

20 District II Meeting, Humboldt

23 District III Meeting, Watertown

23-26 NFU Education Dir. Meeting, Huron

24 Jr. REAL, Britton/Hecla

October1 Jr. Real, Volga

7 Jr. Real, Groton

13 State Offi ce Closed

November5-6 REAL Session 1, Mitchell

20-21 SDFU State Convention

27-28 State Offi ce Closed

Around the State with South Dakota Farmers Union

Chocolate Chip BarsSubmitted by: Luanne Thompson, Administrative AssistantSubmitted by: Luanne Thompson, Administrative AssistantSubmitted by: Luanne Thompson, Administrative Assistant

Ingredients: 1 pkg yellow cake mix │ ¼ cup water │ ¼ cup brown sugar 2 eggs │¼ cup soft butter or oleo │ ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)│ 1 - 2 cups

chocolate chips or butterscotch chips

Directions:

1. Combine the cake mix, wate, eggs, butter and brown sugar. │ 2. Thoroughly

blend with a fork.│ 3. Add chocolate chips and nuts. │ 4. Pour and spread in a

9x13 cake pan. │ 5. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 mins.

Chocolate Chip BarsSubmitted by: Luanne Thompson, Administrative AssistantSubmitted by: Luanne Thompson, Administrative Assistant

1 pkg yellow cake mix │ ¼ cup water │ ¼ cup brown sugar

To celebrate Farmers Union Centennial, we will be releasing a cookbook and we’re calling on Farmers Union members to contribute.

Please send your favorite recipes to khofhenke@sdfu.org or submit through our website www.sdfu.org. Each month we’ll select one recipe to feature in the Union Farmer’s Cook’s Corner.

Cook’s Corner

Thank You South Dakota Farmers Union!South Dakota Farmers Union would like to congratulate and wish the best

to these recently married couples Thank you for having Dr. Temple Grandin in Rapid City!! And thank you for the iPad mini that I won! It is already being used already.

Stacy MarchantSundance, Wyoming

Thanks for inviting me to join you folks last week. Great young people and it was a true privilege to meet Billy Sutton. I was very impressed with his presentation and who he is personally. Thanks and keep up the good work.

Jim WosterSioux Falls

Wow! The Young Prodcers Group is such a great event. Informative speakers, terrifi c hospitality by the staff and the boys absolutely loved attending the Farmers Union Camp while we were at the event. Thanks for all you guys do to keep our coalition of farmers and ranchers informaed and organized.!

Rachel and Jeff KippleyAberdeen

Anne Wudel and Daniel HallJune 21, 2014

in Parkston, SD

Melind Simpson and Brad RusherJuly 5, 2014

in Mitchell, SD

Congratulation to Neal Kline, of Huron

on winning a $500 Visa Gift Card

for renewing his Farmers Union membership!

Check out page 8 to fi nd outhow you could be our next winner!

Union Farmer

www.sdfu.org Union Farmer July/August 2014 3

Sumption Family

Taylor & Cassie Sumption Selected as 2014 Farm Couple to Participate in Farmers Union Enterprise Couple’s Leadership Program

When Taylor Sumption signed up for engineering classes his first year at South Dakota State University, he did not plan on returning to his family’s Frederick farm.

“I planned on becoming an engineer and living in town,” Taylor explains. “I grew up on the farm in the 1980s. Things were tough. I loved working on the farm, but our parents didn’t encourage any of us to return to the farm after high school.”

It wasn’t until he actually experienced town life that he realized it wasn’t all it was cut out to be. “I realized how much I actually liked farming,” said Taylor, who didn’t listen to his parents’ non-farming career ambitions any more than his four brothers who he now farms with; Chris 42, Eric 41, Mark 40, and Warren, 34.

The three men spent about 15 years custom farming other’s land as well as farming their own fulltime to build up enough capital to buy the equipment and land necessary to support the three families. Today, Taylor, 38, and his brothers raise corn, soybeans, wheat and sunflowers on the farm where he lives with his wife, Cassie, 37, and their five children.

Taylor and Cassie were recently selected by S.D. Farmers Union to represent South Dakota in the Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program.

Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program

Developed to substantiate and empower future

leaders for rural America and Farmers Union, the Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership

Program provides training and hands-on experiences that enable couples to become knowledgeable leaders.

“I’m eager to participate because I’ve always wanted to become more involved in Farmers Union and I believe I’ll gain valuable skills that will help me advocate for the industry of agriculture,” Taylors said. “It seems like it has been under assault from many different avenues and

those of us who farm and ranch need to get our story out there.”

Taylor and Cassie first became involved in Farmers Union through Taylor’s dad who has been actively involved and served as Dist. 7 Director for many years. All five of their children participate in youth education programming, which Cassie sees as a great benefit.

“Farmers Union camps give them a great opportunity to interact with other farm kids. It’s good for them to have the chance to relate to other farm kids and learn how other farms are run,” explains Cassie, who looks forward to a similar experience through the Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program.

“I look forward to meeting the couples from other states and learning how they run their farms and ranches and learn how other

farm wives are involved,” says Cassie, who serves in a supportive capacity on their farm – helping Taylor whenever he needs her help and taking care of their young children: Miranda, 15, Trevor 13; Marissa, 11, Tristan 8; Preston 5.

Along with South Dakota, farm couples from the states of North Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin and Minnesota are also involved in the program.

Throughout the year, the couples involved meet five times. The sessions begin with a summer family session where the 2014 participants and their families get to meet with the 2013 class.

The second gathering will be held at one of the participating state’s State Conventions. The third gathering is held during National Farmers Union Convention. The fourth gathering is again the Family Session; with the final gathering held in conjunction with the Washington, D.C. Fly-In.

“We have been so impressed with the quality of the individuals who have completed the program and I think Farmers Union and each of their respective communities and states will benefit

from these young couples,” said Harley Danielson, Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program Coordinator.

Following each Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program event, Taylor and Cassie will share what they learned with Union Farmer readers.

To learn more and find out how you can participate in the 2015 Farmers Union

Enterprise Couples Leadership Program, contact Karla Hofhenke, SDFU Executive Director at karla@sdfu.org or 605-352-6761 ext: 114. ■

Cassie and Taylor Sumption

4 July/August 2014

Union Farmer

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2014-2015 Junior Advisory Council Members Selected to Serve

During the 2014 State Camp, a six-member Junior Advisory Council was selected by campers and education council to serve as leaders, role models and representatives in planning and conducting the 2015 State Camp.

The 2014-2015 Junior Advisory Council (JAC), include: Kiana Brockel, Shadehill; Jason Hanson, Britton; Alyson Hauck, De Smet; Dowain Kerner, Gregory; Tyler Novak, Yankton and Ashton Reedy, Philip.

In addition to coordinating, implementing and directing State Camp, these individuals participate in a number of leadership development opportunities throughout the year. They are involved in activities such as serving as a State Convention page, helping with Farmers Union events across South Dakota and assisting the State Education Director with promotion of education programs.

“Their insight and Farmers Union experience is valuable to the continued evolution and development of Farmers Union Youth Programming,” says Bonnie Geyer, SDFU Education Director.

Read on to learn more about these youth leaders:

Kiana Brockel Background: Kiana, 18, is a senior at Bison High

School. She lives on her family’s farm/ranch near Bison. They raise cattle. “I enjoy being raised on the farm and helping out,” says Kiana, who helps out where ever she is needed. “It has given me a good work ethic which will be helpful wherever I go in life.”

Why do you enjoy participating in Farmers Union Youth Programs? Farmers Union has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember because both my parents are involved. The youth programs have helped me develop courage and overcome my fear and shyness. Actually, it was the JACs who helped me break out of my shell. It was my

first year at State Camp and I was scared to death. When I arrived, a JAC came up to me and encouraged me to join in with activities.

The confidence I’ve gained through Farmers Union Youth Programs has helped me become more involved in school activities. I write plays for our school and this year I played the lead role. I am also the president of Bison High School FCCLA chapter.

As a member of the 2014-2015 Junior

Advisory Council how do you hope to serve? I want to help other kids who,

like me, are shy and need someone to help them break out of their comfort zone. For me, Farmers Union Camp is the best week of my summer. I want to help make it the best week for others!

Jason HansonBackground: Jason, 16, is a senior at Britton

Hecla High School. He grew up helping on his Aunt’s farm near Herreid. When he was old enough, his dad, Lorrie Hanson, started taking him to Farmers Union Day and District Camps because when Lorrie was a teen he served on both the Junior and Senior Advisory Councils. “Being the second generation in our family to serve as a JAC is really cool.”

Why do you enjoy participating in Farmers Union Youth Programs? When I was old enough to decide whether or not I wanted to continue attending Farmers Union camps there was no question - I was going! Through activities and speakers I have developed teamwork skills and learned how to work together toward a common goal. I have really learned how to be more social and friendly. My camp experience has taught me how to be a true friend and bring out the best in others.

As a member of the 2014-2015 Junior Advisory Council how do you hope to serve?

I have always looked up to the JACs and now I want to be the guy who helps campers learn, have fun and be a role model they can look up to.

Alyson HauckBackground: Alyson, has been involved with

Farmers Union from the time she was 3 (her aunt, Education Director, Bonnie Geyer may have had a little something to do with the early introduction!) Even though she just completed a term serving on the Senior Advisory Council, Alyson could not image her involvement in Farmers Union Youth Programs ending, so she decided to run for a JAC position.

She will be a freshman at South Dakota State University this fall.

Why do you enjoy participating in Farmers Union Youth Programs? I have gained so many wonderful opportunities through my involvement with Farmers Union Youth Programs. They have introduced me to governmental policy, helped me understand the importance of cooperatives, built my leadership and communication skills and introduced me to some of my best friends.

As a member of the 2014-2015 Junior Advisory Council how do you hope to serve? I like to tell friends that camp is the place you go

when you want to just get away and be accepted for the person you really are. It’s a place where you are not judged for what you think. As a JAC, I want to help provide a similar experience for campers.

Dowain KernerBackground: Dowain Kerner, 17,

enjoys working on his family’s Gregory farm. They raise corn, alfalfa, soybeans and a commercial cow/calf herd. “I am an on-call farm hand and I couldn’t ask for anything more. I love sitting in the tractor raking hay, stacking bales or feeding cattle.” He is a

senior at Gregory High School. During State Camp, Dowain received the Bob

Janish Memorial Friendship Award. Each year this award is given to a camper who exemplifies the most friendship toward other campers throughout the week.

Why do you enjoy participating in Farmers Union Youth Programs? When I was in the fourth grade my dad received an invitation to Day Camp and suggested I check it out. I really liked it. I stayed involved in Farmers Union Youth Programs because I like meeting new people and making new friends. I’ve met some of my best friends at camp.

As a member of the 2014-2015 Junior Advisory Council how do you hope to serve? I look forward to helping organize camp. As a JAC, I will make sure that if any campers need a friend or someone to talk to I will be there for them.

Tyler NovakBackground: Tyler Novak, 17, is a senior at

(L to R) Ashton Reedy, Kiana Brockel, Dowain Kerner, Jason Hanson, Tyler Novak and Alyson Hauck

The 2013/2014 JACs welcoming the new 2014/2015 leadership at the spiral ceremony.

July/August 2014 5

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After 39 years of dedicated service, Lorrie Nelson retired this spring from Farmers Union Insurance. Here are what her co-workers and friends have to say about what they appreciate most about Lorrie.

What we value about Lorrie: Lorrie’s dedication, loyalty and commitment have always been second to none. As our bookkeeper, her focus on finite details and accuracy was very important and a top priority for her. She was always proud to have everything balance to the penny, regardless of how long she had to search for that missing penny.

Lorrie seldom took vacation of any extent because of her dedication to the monthly flow of productivity in processing commissions, bills payable, payroll, etc. Lorrie was a strong team player and contributed to our team by always pitching in when something outside of her "job description" needed to be done.

How Lorrie Contributed to Farmers Union: Lorrie is honest, has integrity and a desire to get things done correctly. Lorrie provided a

great example to all around her in that she was intensely loyal to Farmers Union Insurance Agency, it's people, and it's relationships.

She helped to instill a family atmosphere within our operation that is very important to happy and productive employees. Lorrie is an extremely loving and caring individual and we have been blessed for nearly four decades with having her behind her desk on a daily basis.

We wish you the best! Lorrie’s official title was "bookkeeper" which seems rather simplistic in today’s age of fancy titles and corporate words. She had the same title for her entire tenure. She was proud of her duties, and committed to perform her duties in a diligent fashion.

During her 40-year tenure, our General Agency has grown immensely, and her duties have obviously multiplied with our development, yet she was excited about our growth even though it ultimately meant more work for her.

Lorrie's well-earned retirement after all these years marks the end of an era for our agency. She has been a mainstay in our operation for so long that she totally understood each and every relationship, the value those relationships brought to the table, and the importance of her functions in the positive image of our organization.

We certainly wish Lorrie the best for many years to come, and hope she can now enjoy many of the things she sacrificed to be behind her desk every day. ■

Lorrie Nelson Retires After 39 Years of ServiceYankton High School. He is the fourth-generation to help on his family’s farm. They raise corn, soybeans, wheat, and operate a feedlot.“I feel like working on the farm builds character because it has taught me hard work, cooperation and the fact that sometimes a job isn’t fun, but it does need to be done.”

Tyler became involved in Farmers Union through family ties. His grandpa is a founding member of Yankton County Farmers Union and his dad is the current county president.

Why do you enjoy participating in Farmers Union Youth Programs? Farmers Union Youth Programs are like a second family to me. Also, I strongly believe in everything they teach us – about cooperation and working together. I also enjoy learning about how business works.

Over the years I have gained some great leadership skills and confidence. I used to be quiet, and now because of the experience I have gained through Farmers Union, I am not afraid to speak in front of groups. My involvement in Farmers Union has also encouraged me to become more involved in 4-H.

As a member of the 2014-2015 Junior Advisory Council how do you hope to serve? I remember how shy I was attending my first State Camp. The JACs were so nice and helpful. They encouraged me to get to know other campers and would invite me to join them for group activities. I recognize how nice it was, as the shy kid in the corner, to have a person do that for me, and as a JAC I want to do that for others.

Ashton ReedyBackground: Ashton, 17, is a senior at Philip High

School. She lives with her family on their commercial cow/calf ranch. She became involved with Farmers Union Youth programs when a childhood friend invited her to attend the District and State camps with her. Before she knew it, Ashton was hooked. “I just love how in a few short days you get to know everyone there.”

Why do you enjoy participating in Farmers Union Youth Programs? Farmers Union is like a family and I think it’s a great family to be in! Through Farmers Union Youth Programs I learned how to be more outgoing and communicate better with people I don’t know.

I have also learned how to work with people – even if I don’t know very well. I know that overall, because of what I’ve learned through Farmers Union, I am a much better leader in other areas of my life. For example, I work as a lifeguard at the local city pool, and I use the leadership skills I’ve developed to help maintain order even when things get chaotic.

As a member of the 2014-2015 Junior Advisory Council how do you hope to serve? Being a JAC is a big responsibility. I’m eager to help organize and lead the 2015 camps and for the opportunity to help other young people develop their leadership skills. ■

South Dakota Farmers Union served nearly 500 meals to the families and contestants at the 2014 State High School Rodeo Finals held in Belle Fourche, S.D. All contestants received a Farmers Union water sports bottle and their names were entered into a drawing for an iPad Mini. The winner of the drawing was Jessica Ryan, Belle Fourche.

South Dakota Farmers Union Feeds 500 During State High School Rodeo Finals

6 July/August 2014

Union Farmer

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South Dakota Farmers Union 2014 Young Producers Group Summer EventYoung farmers, ranchers and their families came together for two days

of inspiration, information, networking and family fun for South Dakota Farmers Union Young Producers Summer Event July 23-24 in Huron.

“Young Producer events are one way of providing support and valuable information to the new generation of South Dakota’s agriculture producers,” said Kristen Fink, SDFU Rural Development Director.

Fink explained that as the average age of agriculture producers continues to increase, South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) sees networking with their peers and industry experts as a valuable way for young producers to work through challenges and develop profitable operations that will carry them and their families into the next generation.

A number of families throughout the state attended this free event.

During the Young Producers Event, Sen. Billie H. Sutton shared how his grandpa, who is also his namesake, was responsible for his initial interest in politics. “My grandpa was a state legislator. He

ended up running for Lt. Governor in 1978, but didn’t win the race. He was a big proponent of education.”

A 2007 rodeo accident spurred Sutton, who had been a professional rodeo athlete at the time, to take his political interests seriously. “Making it to the National Finals Rodeo had been my focus. But the accident changed my life drastically. When I came home I decided I wanted to do something more for my community,” says Sutton, who also works as an investment consultant for

Rural South Dakota Needs You. Get Involved!

Child care was provided throughout the event and families received a free pass to Splash Central Waterpark the evening of July 24. “Farming and ranching is a family business, whether one spouse works somewhere else or not. So, we encouraged families to attend,” Fink said.

The member-only event featured the following speakers: Farm Service Agency State Executive Director, Craig Schaunaman; Jim Woster, motivational speaker; Billie Sutton, Legislator, producer and financial consultant; DuWayne Bosse, marketing specialist; Gloria Schaefer, motivational speaker; and Dave Franssens, USDA Rural Development Area Specialist.

To learn about future Young Producer events, contact Kristen Fink at 605-352-6761 ext. 118 or kfink@sdfu.org.

First Fidelity Bank, Burke. He recalled all the valuable opportunities and

excellent education he received growing up on a ranch near the small community of Burke, S.D.

“I played football, wrestled, ran track and of course rodeo. Even when I was rodeoing professionally I knew that one day I wanted to return home so I could provide my children with the same opportunities I had,” Sutton says.

As a District 21 Senator, Sutton works to ensure a quality education for all South Dakota youth. “It’s my belief that education in South Dakota is underfunded. We have pushed education off to local property tax payers in the form of opt outs,” says Sutton, explaining that nearly 50 percent of all South Dakota schools are currently in opt outs. “This is a problem. Not only does it force local tax payers to raise taxes on themselves, but it hurts agriculture and young producers because it taxes agriculture.”

He urged young producers to become more

To donate online go to: www.sdfu.orgor mail to: SD Farmers Union, PO Box 1388, Huron SD 57350

The 2014-2015 South Dakota State FFA Officers were elected during the State FFA Convention held on the campus of SDSU in April: (L to R) President, Taylin Albrecht, De Smet; Vice President, Kaden Eisenbraun, Wall; Secretary, Ellie Minihan, Brandon Valley; Treasurer, Nicole Hamilton, Hitchcock-Tulare; Reporter, Jennifer Emery, Wall; Sentinel, Andrea Collins, Sturgis.

Congratulations Young Ag Leaders!

involved in local and state government. “You are directly affected by the decisions community leaders and state representatives make. If you’re not involved or don’t understand the issues, then you won’t be able to make a positive impact for your community and its future.”

Along with education, Medicaid expansion is another issue Sutton believes needs to be addressed for the well being of South Dakota’s rural communities. “There are a lot of folks who would be impacted positively by Medicaid expansion,” he says, explaining that many South Dakotans, ages 55-65, don’t make enough money to pay for private insurance, yet they don’t qualify for Medicaid because South Dakota has not expanded Medicaid coverage through the Affordable Care Act.

Sutton added that Medicaid expansion could have a positive economic impact on South Dakota’s rural communities. “Medicaid creates economic opportunities.” ■

July/August 2014 7

Union Farmer

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The 2014 Farm Bill holds many valuable programs for South Dakota farmers and ranchers. During the Young Producers Event, young farmers learned more about recently rolled out commodity protection titles from Craig Schaunaman, State Director for the Farm Service Agency division of the USDA.

“I think these commodity protection titles give producers some good options, but they will have to make a choice,” explained Schaunaman.

The choice producers will have to make is between PLC (Price Loss Coverage) or ARC (Agricultural Risk Coverage) programs.

Q: Can you explain the difference between PLC and ARC? Basically Price Loss Coverage (PLC) offers price protection and Ag Risk Coverage-County (ARC-CO) offers shallow loss revenue protection at a COUNTY level. Remember, these are not disaster programs, these are price protection and revenue programs.

Q: How does this impact base acres? Growers can retain current base acres or reallocate base acres (cannot increase total). Base election options for 2014 base acres on a farm include: Barley, Canola, Chickpeas (large and small), Corn, Cranbe, Flaxseed, Grain Sorghum, Lentils, Mustard Seed, Oats, Peanuts, Dry Peas, Rapeseed, Rice, Saffl ower, Sesame, Soybeans, Sunfl ower Seed and Wheat. Bases in effect 9/30/13 will be in effect for ARC/PLC; Bases may be reallocated with history, 2009-2012, BUT NOT INCREASED. NOTE: The decision to reallocate is made by the OWNER of the farm.

Reallocation of bases will result in the farm’s base acres being recalculated in the same proportion to the 4-year average of acres that were Planted & Considered Planted to covered commodity bases during the 2009 – 2012 crop years. Base acres may be adjusted for new CRP or expiring CRP.

Commodity Protection Programs in the 2014 Farm Bill Q: What about subsequent crops? In cases

where an initial covered commodity crop is followed by a subsequent covered commodity crop and the crops do not meet the double cropping defi nition, the owner of the farm may select either crop to be used for base reallocation calculations.

Q: Let’s talk a little bit about updating yields. When it comes to yield options, growers can retain current CC yields or update yields. Note: This option is available PER Crop AND available to ALL farms regardless of program election – PLC/ARC-CO/ARC-IC.

Payment Yield Update Option: This is determined on a crop-by-crop basis. The owner of a farm has the following options:

1.Retain the farm’s/crop’s Counter-Cyclical (CC) yield from the 2008 Farm Bill (NOT Direct yield);2.Update the farm’s/crop’s yield based on 90% of the farms 2008-2012 “average yield” per “planted” acre, excluding years of zero plantings/prevent plant. NOTE: 75% of County Average Yield will be “replaced” for low year yield and/or no production/yield available for planted acres.Let’s talk a little bit about ARC/PLC

program implementation, how does it work?Final Notice of Base & Yield: Once the owner

elects to update or retain current base and yields, a “Final” base and yield notice will be issued.

Elect PLC, ARC-CO or ARC-IC on each FSA Farm Number:

a. Owners & Operators will make the one-time election per farm. b. Failure to make an election will result in PLC election starting in 2015 through 2018 and NO payments will be made for 2014.Annual Enrollment Contract to Participate

on a farm: An enrollment period will be held for: 2014 & 2015 completed simultaneously. Completed for each year 2014 – 2018.

Producers can “participate OR not participate” year by year.

Q: Where should growers go to learn more, and or, sign up? Visit with your local Farm Service Agency offi ce. Also, to view the power point presentation I gave during the Young Producers Event, visit www.sdfu.org and click on the Resourses and Forms tab under the About Us navigation button.

Q: Anything else young producers should consider visiting with their local FSA offi ce about? YES! I encourage all young producers to learn more about the farm loans FSA has available. Agriculture is a capital intensive business. FSA is just one of many tools available to young producers seeking capital.

Today’s FSA has developed partnerships with fi nancial institutions to overcome challenges created by lending limits. These partnerships are a win-win. They provide more security for fi nancial institutions and allow young producers access to more capital.

Young producers are our future! You are vital to rural communities and our state’s economy. ■

8/6/20148/7/20148/8/2014

8/12/20148/12/20148/13/20148/21/20148/21/20148/25/20148/26/20148/26/2014

9/3/2014

IpswichHuronBurkeWorthing SissetonChamberlainWebsterRedfieldFlandreauAberdeenWatertownDeSmet

10:00 AM2:00 PM2:00 PM2:00 PM10:00 AM2:00 PM10:00 AM2:00 PM1:00 PM10:00 AM10:00 AM7:00 PM

North Central Farmers ElevatorHuron Event CenterCommunity Civic CenterSioux Falls Regional LivestockSisseton 4-H BuildingCedar Shore ResortTBDSpink County FairgroundsRoyal River CasinoRamkota HotelRamkota HotelDeSmet Super Deluxe Inn

Check out sdfu.org for more locations and dates to be announced

Union Farmer

8 July/August 2014 www.sdfu.orgUnion Farmer

Recently, we checked in with two Farmers Union Cooperatives – James Valley Telecommunications and Farmers Union Oil Company of Ferney, because we wanted to learn about their history, employee team and how they serve their community.

Cooperative Update

Farmers Union Oil Company of Ferney

Farmers Union Oil Company of Ferney was founded by a group of Brown County farmers shortly after World War II. These farmers were looking for local access to fuel, explains David Pigors.

“Farmers from the Ferney and Stratsburg area didn’t have access to fuel because all the major oil companies were located in Groton,” says David, a Brown County farmer who has served on the Board of Directors of Farmers Union Oil Company of Ferney for 12 years. He recently completed a one-year term as Board President.

What started out as a fuel station that also provided some minor mechanical services has grown to meet community demands for other products. Today, along with fuel, the cooperative provides community members with access to propane for home heating and on-farm needs as well as dry fertilizer, anhydrous and custom application services as well as Hubbard Feed and North Star Seed.

The cooperative serves farmers and community members throughout Brown, portions of Spink and western Day Counties. It has six fulltime employees.

David says the conservative nature of the co-op’s leadership has helped it maintain a fi nancially solid foundation and return dividends to members each year. This last year it retired nearly $45,000 worth of stock to members 75 years of age.

Along with David, the other board members include: President, Troy Zoellner, Groton; Vice President, Preston Miles, Doland; Secretary Brad Morehouse, Andover and Neil Wagner, Andover. The General Manager is Mike Schwingler. ■

James Valley Telecommunications

After a winter ice storm left James Valley resi-dents with broken phone lines and the local phone company without the funds to make repairs, a group of community members formed the James Valley Telecommunica-tions cooperative 60 years ago.

With head-quarters in Gro-ton, the coopera-tive has grown to provide residents of Brown, Spink and parts of Day Counties with much more than phone service. Today, James Valley Telecommunications offers high speed internet, cell phone, cable TV and web hosting services, explains CEO, James Groft.

“Our cooperative has remained successful be-cause we’ve been willing to adapt and change as the telecommunications industry has evolved over the years,” Groft says. “We have always been ready to step up, take risks and make changes whenever we see an opportunity to serve our members.”

The cooperative employs 50 employees through-out their three retail locations in Aberdeen, Groton and Redfi eld. ■

While attending the Association of Cooperative Educators Conference in Texas, Education Director, Bonnie Geyer visited the worker cooperative brewery, Rock Star Co-op. A sign that hangs there says “We pay a living wage so their workers do not have to depend on tips.” She also toured Cooperation Texas, an organization that helps people start cooperatives. Two of their clients visited with the group - a cleaning service cooperative and a bakery, Red Rabbit Bakery.

Education Director, Bonnie Geyer, recently attended the Association of Cooperative Educators Conference in Texas. She is pictured here with other educators including: (L to R) Maria Miller, Washington, D.C., Bonnie Geyer, South Dakota, Bruce Miller, Minnesota, Cathy Statz, Wisconsin and Dane Braun, North Dakota

NFU Fly-In Coming Up: September 8 - 10

This year’s NFU Fall Legislative Fly-In will be held in Washington, D.C., from Sept. 8 through Sept. 10. This will be a fantastic opportunity for Farmers Union members to visit their members of Congress, learn more about the policy making process, meet other family farmers and ranchers from around the country and see the sights of Washington, D.C.

Recent fl y-ins have included more than 300 participants and have featured a “Farm Bill Now!” rally in 2012 and an appearance by singer Neil Young in 2013. Plans are still in the works for 2014, but notable speakers have been invited, including Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy.

The fl y-in will focus on topics including Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL), restoration of the Renewable Fuels Standard, negotiating the Trans-Pacifi c Partnership (TPP) trade agreement and implementation of the 2014 Farm Bill. Farmers Union members will carry these messages to Congress and will also receive thorough briefi ngs on these subjects.

In order to take part in the fl y-in, contact your state Farmers Union division to sign up by Aug. 4, and learn more about how you can attend this year’s event or in the future, contact Karla Hofhenke at karla@sdfu.org or 605-352-6761 ext. 114. ■

Bonnie Geyer Attends Association of Cooperative Educators Conference in Austin, Texas

“We have always been ready to step up, take risks and

make changes whenever we see an opportunity to serve our

members.”

- James Groft, General Manager James Valley

Telecommunications

themselves, gain confi dence, make friends and glean a clear understanding of the cooperative system, agriculture and farm safety,” Geyer said.

Along with the Junior Advisory Council members, a team of four summer interns also helped Geyer with State Leadership Camp.

Helping keep things running smoothly to ensure a positive experience for the 88 campers who attended camp was a role that Summer Intern, Liz Reddy took seriously.

“I had such great experiences attending Farmers Union camps when I was younger, so this is my way of giving back,” said Reddy, a sophomore attending Northern State University.

During camp the 2014/2015 Junior Advisory Council was elected. These students are responsible to plan the 2015 State Leadership Camp, they include: Ashton Reedy, Philip; Kiana Brockel, Shadehill; Dowain Kerner, Gregory; Jason Hanson, Britton; Tyler Novak, Yankton; and Alyson Hauck, DeSmet. ■

Bob Janish Memorial Friendship AwardDowain Kerner of Gregory was

awarded the Bob Janish Memorial Friendship Award during State Leadership Camp. Each year this award is given to a camper who exemplifi es the most friendship toward other campers throughout the week.

It is given in memory of a former state camper and Junior Advisory Council member, Bob Janish, who was killed in a tragic accident in 1980. ■

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Youth Develop Leadership Skills during SD Farmers Union 2014 State Leadership Camp(Continued from page 1)

Superhero Night! (L to R) Jackie Dethlefsen, Stickney; Brooke Enright, Union Center; Tucker Greene, Plankinton; Aiden Beck, Huron; Chris Nemec, Holabird.

“Camp takes you away from what is familiar and gives you the opportunity to really be yourself and develop leadership skills,” said Dethlefsen who has been attending Farmers Union youth programs since elementary school. “I used to be the shy kid in the corner, but the Farmers Union program broke me out of that shell. I now can walk up to just about anyone and have a conversation with them.”

Dethlefsen was one of six students to plan the camp agenda and activities as a member of Farmers Union 2013/2014 Junior Advisory Council. “In this leadership role I learned a lot about organizational skills - you can’t procrastinate when others are counting on you,” said Dethlefsen who will be attending the University of Sioux Falls this fall.

Dethlefsen’s camp experience is not unique, explained Bonnie Geyer, S.D. Farmers Union Education Director.

“We make sure camp is fun, but also informational. It’s our hope that through camp, youth learn more about

Joseph Nugteren, Canistota, voting for JACs Top: JACs Spiral CeremonyBottom: 2014 State Camp Banquet

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(Continued from page 1)By Lura Roti, for South Dakota Farmers UnionLarry Nagel was only 14 when his dad, John

Adam passed away. However, by this time his dad had already instilled a strong work ethic and passion for agriculture in the Gettysburg farm boy and his brothers, Herman, Arnie, Leonard, Eugene, Jim and their sister, Irma.

Larry recalls that from an early age they spent hours plowing, planting and caring for livestock.

“Dad started us farming at a very young age and we all enjoyed it. Even to this day, there is just something about planting a crop and watching it grow from one stage to the next until harvest,” says Larry, whose son, Brandon is among the fourth-generation of Nagels to farm fulltime.

Larry says it was his oldest two brothers, Herman and Arnie, and their determination to keep the farm in the family, that kept things going in the early years. “We had to stick together and we had to work hard. It was sort of a day and night operation because we had small equipment, so in order to get stuff done we had to work day and night,” Larry says.

When they headed off to South Dakota State University to pursue degrees after high school, the brothers would come home on the weekends to work.

As they married and began to raise families of their own, the brothers continued to expand buying and leasing farm ground when it came available and increasing the livestock operation, which along with

Brothers’ Determination Sustains Family Farm for the Futurecommercial cow/calf herd, until 2006 also included a farrow-to-fi nish hog operation.

They also began to implement management and conservation practices that made the most sense for land and resources.

“We’ve always believed that farmers should have the right to farm and operate without policy dictating how they should farm or operate. However, at the same point we recognize that the choices we make need to make sense for the land,” says Dawn Nagel, who farms part-time with her dad, Eugene and uncles and works as the County Executive Director for Sully County Farm Service Agency.

Dawn explains that the family has run a no-till operation for close to 25 years. They use marginal acres as pastureland for their cattle. Over the years they have planted hundreds of trees in shelter belts and grasses riparian areas along waterways to protect them from erosion. In the late 1970s the family was recognized for their conservation efforts by the Natural Resources Conservation Service with the award.

Their stewardship efforts did not go unnoticed by wildlife.

“We see all kinds of deer, pheasants and other wildlife in our pastureland and along the fence lines,” says Dawn, sharing that she frequently spies ducks nesting in the pastureland during spring calving checks.

Their conservation efforts have also cut down on labor and equipment needs, Larry explains. “Before, we no-tilled, it took more equipment and more people running the equipment. Today, we are farming more acres with one tractor, one corn planter and one air seeder.”

Family BondsLike all farm families, over the decades, the Nagels

faced challenges brought on by uncooperative weather and market variability. Each time a challenge came their way, they buckled down and made tough

decisions as a group to sustain the farm. “The Nagel Family has always asked ourselves, ‘What do we really need to live on?’” says Dawn, adding that

all signifi cant fi nancial decisions – whether to buy new equipment, build a new facility or commodity and livestock marketing - are made as a group.

“We call a meeting, It might be a 5-minute meeting in the shop or a year-end planning meeting,” she says. “We are always focused on our bottom-line income and expenses and looking ahead to see where we need to be fi ve to 10 years down the road so we can save for the future.”

The same conversation occurs when it comes to new technology. Larry says his generation encourages the next to bring home ideas and technology that will enhance the farm today and into the future.

“The only thing is, they understand when they bring it to the farm, if they want us older guys to run it, they need to train us,” he says.

Larry says communication and thinking about everyone’s well being has always been a focus. Not getting along has never been an option. “We had to work together to keep the farm because when our dad died everyone wanted us to sell out.”

The strong bond between brothers translates into a strong family link between cousins. “My best friends are my sister and my cousins,” Dawn says. “Some people ask me why I choose to work with family. My thought is, if you can’t work with family, why would anyone want to work with you?”

To ensure the stability of their farm into the future, the Nagel family incorporated as Nagel Bros Inc. Shareholders include John Adam’s surviving children, Dawn, her sister, Gerri Eide and their cousins, Brandon Nagel and Adam Nagel.

“It makes me and my brothers feel pretty proud that we have set an example that the next generation wants to follow. We all want this farm to remain in the Nagel name,” Larry says. ■

(L to R) Dawn Nagel, Eugene Nagel, Mary Nagel, Larry Nagel, Brandon Nagel, Adam Nagel, Roseanne Nagel, Beth Nagel, Jim Nagel

USDA Risk Management Agency Educational grant to cover the costs associated with hosting Grandin. Doug Sombke, S.D. Farmers Union President says education is a strong focus for the family farming/ranching organization.

“Family farmers and ranchers are stewards of South Dakota’s agriculture industry. We take every opportunity we can to provide them with practical, research-based information,” Sombke said.

“It was amazing that someone with Temple Grandin’s knowledge and understanding was brought to Rapid City and we were able to attend her presentation at no cost! This event was

something I’d gladly pay for and drive hours to see. It was wonderful that it was brought to us,” said attendee Bryan Hall.

Teaming up with SDSU Extension to host the event gave livestock producers the opportunity to visit with South Dakota-based livestock specialists. “This allowed everyone to best utilize their resources to provide

livestock producers with the most up-to-date information,” Carroll said. ■

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July/August 2014 11www.sdfu.org Union Farmer

Heather Maude grew up around livestock on her family’s ranch in Wyoming. Today, she ranches with her husband, Charles, on his family’s ranch near Scenic. The couple manages a commercial cow/calf herd, develop replacement heifers, raise hogs as well as a diversity of small grains. Even though she has worked with livestock most of her life, Maude says she is not an expert and is always eager to learn better handling techniques.

So, when Maude learned Dr. Temple Grandin, a leading expert in the fi eld, would be leading a husbandry and handling workshop in Rapid City, she made time to attend. “She knows her stuff. It was an honor to be able to attend and learn from her capacity to tune into what is considered the most humane way to handle livestock today,” says Maude, who also works as a freelance journalist.

Maude was among a group of about 250 South Dakota livestock producers who attended one of two free livestock husbandry and handling workshops

taught by Dr. Temple Grandin and co-hosted by Farmers Union and SDSU Extension in Rapid City and Watertown in July and August. During the workshops cattle producers and handlers learned science-based handling procedures designed to manage livestock in a humane manner that is effective and reduces stress.

“Stress has many negative effects on livestock

when it comes to their performance and overall health,” says Heidi Carroll, SDSU Extension Livestock Stewardship Associate. “Anything you

can do to increase animal well being will increase performance and production. Also, minimizing livestock stress helps producers minimize the risk of injury to themselves or others working the cattle.”

Renowned for her animal handling research and livestock facility design, Temple Grandin has long been considered the leader in the fi eld, authoring many books and presentations on the subject. All reasons, Paul

Marrs brought his wife, sons and nephew along to attend the Rapid City presentation.

“I admire her for the work she has done and the struggles she has overcome,” said the Whitewood commercial cow/calf producer and feedlot operator. “I saw her 10 years ago, and when I implemented her ideas into my facility design I found it really does work! The cattle respond and are calm. I wanted my family to hear what she had to say since we all work together.”

Farmers Union applied for and received an

South Dakota Farmers Union Brings Temple Grandin to South Dakota

Paul Marrs is a fourth-generation cattle rancher who operates a cow/calf and feedlot operation near Whitewood.

Heather Maude and her sister, Holly Hamilton both grew up around livestock and said they were impressed with the handling techniques they learned from Temple Grandin. Maude and her husband, Charles ranch near Scenic and are planning to implement some of Grandin’s facility design in a new facility they are building.

SDFU President Doug Sombke, visiting with Larry Kehn, former District 4 board member.

Union Farmer

12 July/August 2014 www.sdfu.orgUnion Farmer

Sean PinkertBig Stone City

Milbank High School

Emily MasseyOlivet

Menno High School

Danika PollreiszEthan

Ethan High School

Chesney GarnosPresho

Lyman High School

Samantha SwensonMadison

Madison High School

Graham ProtexterPierre

T.F. Riggs HS

Kara HansonMitchell

Mitchell High School

Sarah SchoonSalem

McCook Central HS

Alexandera SnyderDell Rapids

Dell Rapids HS

Hannah CoveyWinner

Winner High School

Shelby Van DrielLesterville

Scotland High School

Heather BarrieHitchcock

Hitchcock-Tulare HS

Emma SchmidtMitchell

Mitchell High School

Abigail CeremugaRapid City

Rapid City Stevens HS

Miranda RistauWarner

Warner High School

Logan StrasburgVolga

Sioux Valley HS

Carly GoodhartBrowns Valley, MN

Sisseton High School

Lisa SmithKimball

Kimball High School

Chesney NagelSpringfi eld

Avon High School

Brittney CaseyLeola

Leola High School

Anna WollesDell Rapids

Dell Rapids St. Mary’s HS

Sara HusherWinner

Winner High School

Alexis LogueVolin

Irene-Wakonda HS

Lane BlasiusWall

Wall High School

The South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation, in cooperation with Farmers Union Insurance Agency, have announced the recipients of the seventh annual “Insuring a Brighter Tomorrow” scholarships. Twenty-fi ve high school seniors from across South Dakota will share $25,000 in scholarships to be used to further their education at a South Dakota post-secondary school. Over the past seven years, the Foundation has awarded over $175,000 in scholarships to students attending South Dakota post-secondary schools.

Zachary AnderaAberdeen

Aberdeen Roncalli HS

Each of the 25 scholarship recipients will receive $1,000 to put toward their post-secondary education at a South Dakota college, university or technical school. The recipients were chosen from among a large pool of applicants. They were scored based on a combination of academic record, activities and awards, fi nancial need, and an essay relating to how they will, “Insure a Brighter Tomorrow,” in South Dakota.

Farmers Union Insurance agents throughout the state fund this scholarship program administered by

‘Insuring a Brighter Tomorrow’ Scholarship Recipients Announcedthe Farmers Union Foundation.

“Our insurance agents are committed to building a brighter future in South Dakota,” said Wayne Bartscher, Regional Manager of Farmers Union Insurance Agency. “We’re committed to giving back to our communities, and this is a way we can help shape the lives of future leaders and build our state for tomorrow.” ■

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Two South Dakota Youth Named to Farmers Union National Youth Advisory CouncilTwo South Dakota teens, Chris Nemec, Holabird and Dayton Trujillo, De

Smet were elected by their peers to serve on the National Farmers Union Youth Advisory Council during the National Farmers Union’s (NFU) All-States Leadership Camp, held in Bailey, Colo.

“We couldn’t be more proud of Chris and Dayton. They have both been actively involved in South Dakota Farmers Union youth educational programs since before they were first graders. We have watched them grow into young leaders who have a heart for their community and the industry of agriculture,” said Doug Sombke, South Dakota Farmers Union President.

Nemec and Trujillo are two of six campers elected to the 2014/2015 National Youth Advisory Council (NYAC). NYAC duties include representing thousands of Farmers Union youth across the country, including working at the annual NFU Convention. These young Farmers Union leaders also help plan the next year’s NFU All-States Leadership Camp. Other members of the NYAC include: Nicollette Bitz, Napoleon, N.D.; RaeLyn Leier, Fargo, N.D.; Tyson Peppler, Colo.; and Lexie Weber, New Rockford, N.D.

“These youth have exhibited leadership and given back to their communities and the industry of agriculture through participation in Farmers Union leadership training, camps and volunteering their time for community

development,” Geyer said. “I couldn’t be more proud of the fact that they will now be serving Farmers Union on the national level.”

More about Nemec & Trujillo

Growing up on his family’s crop farm, Chris Nemec’s cousins introduced him to Farmers Union Youth programs by inviting him to District Camp when he was 6. He remained involved in the organization, attending camp every year since, because of the friendships he developed with other campers.

“It’s amazing how I got to meet people and although I only knew them for a week I ended up becoming better friends with them than with the kids I go to school with back home. I’ve met some of my best friends at

Farmers Union camp,” Nemec says. “The fact that all of us campers have rural or agriculture backgrounds may be part of the reason we connect so fast.”

A recent graduate of Highmore High School, the 18-year-old says that along with friendship, he developed many leadership skills through Farmers Union Youth programs and while serving on the Junior Advisory Council. Nemec will attend University of South Dakota this fall and will major in Business Management. His ultimate career goal is become a chef and open a restaurant one day.

Dayton Trujillo became involved in Farmers Union youth programs at the prodding of his aunt. However, after attending the Farmers Union day camp as an elementary student, he says he didn’t need encouragement to stay involved.

“I’ve learned a lot about myself and developed self confidence and communication skills through Farmers Union youth programs. The last few years I’ve been able to give back as a camp counselor working with young kids,” Trujillo says.

He adds that along with learning, he has made life-long friends through the programs.

“The friends I have made in Farmers Union are like an extended family,” Trujillo says.

Trujillo is a 2014 graduate of De Smet High School and will be attending South Dakota State University in the fall.

A 78-Year TraditionAll-States Leadership Camp is held each summer at the NFU Education

Center. During the week-long camp youth take part in cooperative activities have the opportunity to hear several inspirational speakers including: Andrew Jacobs of Co-Bank; Rulon Gardner, Olympic gold and bronze medalist in Greco-Roman Wrestling; and NFU leaders, including immediate past Vice President, Claudia Svarstad.

This year’s camp focused on “Farming Means a World of Good,” reflecting the fact that 2014 is the United Nations International Year of Family Farming. Campers learned to appreciate the cultural and economic value of family farm agriculture in America and worldwide.

To participate in All-States Leadership Camp, Farmers Union members, ages 17-20, must meet specific criteria throughout the year. For more information, visit www.nfu.org/education/events/all-states-leadership-camp.

All-States is sponsored by the FUI Foundation, Farm Credit, CoBank and CHS Foundation. ■

Two South Dakota teens, Chris Nemec, Holabird and Dayton Trujillo, De Smet were elected by their peers to serve on the National Farmers Union Youth Advisory Council during the National Farmers Union’s (NFU) All-States Leadership Camp, held in Bailey, Colo. They attended All States Leadership Camp with two other teens; Denise Mushitz, Geddes and Tyler Novak, Yankton. (L to R) Denise Mushitz, Tyler Novak, Chris Nemec, and Dayton Trujillo

2014/2015 National Farmers Union Youth Advisory Council (L to R) Front: Nicollette Bitz, Napoleon, N.D.; Lexie Weber, New Rockford, N.D.; RaeLyn Leier, Fargo, N.D.; Back: Dayton Trujillo, De Smet, S.D.; Tyson Peppler, Colo.; and Chris Nemec, Holabird, S.D.

14 July/August 2014

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Q: Tell us about your ranch?

A: I own the ranch where I grew up, near Union Center. Our son, Ryan Lamont and his wife, Shilo also run our cattle on that ranch today. They run their cattle on ajoining land. My wife, Tammy and I also run livestock on her family’s land, which we own about 15 miles away.

We raise sheep and cattle. Today our cattle herd is mostly a commercial cow/calf herd, but we have some registered Red Angus. We also raise hay, oats, sorghum and millet – mostly forage crops that we can bale.

I’m at least a fourth-generation livestock producer, but probably much more than that because my mom can trace her family back almost to the Mayfl ower – they just kept moving West.

Q: What challenges have you faced on your operation and how have you made it through?

A: About the time our son came home, we entered a drought cycle. We had to cut back herd numbers to get through.

Pasture management and balancing our cattle and sheep numbers has been key to maximizing our pastureland. To get more production out of each acre we use intensive grazing management.

The fact that the current farm bill included livestock indemnity programs helped us since we did lose some cattle to Storm Atlas.

Currently we are working to develop a transition plan for our son. As part of that, we are all taking a ranch management course together.

I took a similar course about 30 years ago and it was very helpful.

Q: How did you become involved in Farmers Union?

A: My dad, Ellis, was involved in Farmers Union most of his life. Tammy I didn’t get very involved

until our son came back to the ranch about 10 years ago. Now that he is here to help if we are away, we have more time to get involved.

We appreciate the way that Farmers Union is geared to small operations like ours and that the organization advocates for issues that impact us.

Q: What issues are you concerned about?

A: I think a lot about the next generation of farmers and ranchers. It’s not easy getting started. This is why I feel Farmers Union educational programming is so important. It’s a great way for young producers to network with other producers.

I didn’t go to college, so I missed out on networking with other producers throughout the state when I was getting started. I’ve found that Farmers Union programming provides many great networking opportunities.

Networking with other producers is so important because it opens your eyes to what’s out there. I think it is easy to get into a rut where you put up hay, feed hay, calve and fi x fence – pretty soon that’s all you do or think about and you forget to seek out other opportunities.

COOL is another issue that I think is very important. I feel we should be able to label the product we produce. ■

As a grassroots farm/ranch organization, Farmers Union relies heavily on our board members for guidance and insight. So you can get to know this team of leaders, each issue of Union Farmer we will be featuring one of our board members.

Getting to know Board Member: Dallis Basel

Dallis Basel, District 5

SDFUSend Us Your

Email Address

sdfu@sdfu.org

NEWS, EVENTS AND MORE ONLINE NOW!

www.SDFU.org

Bailey Lulf Receives $300 Scholarship from

Lyman County Farmers UnionLyman County

Farmers Union awards a $300 scholarship to Bailey Lulf.

Lulf is the daughter of Dale and Sherry Lulf and the granddaughter of the late Ronald

“Red” and RuthAnn McMannus of Reliance. She is a graduate of Lyman County High School and will attend South Dakota State University this fall where she will pursue a degree in Counseling.

Throughout high school Lulf was actively involved, participating in volleyball, competition cheerleading, football cheerleading, band, choir, drama and track. She was recognized with the South Dakota National Sports Academics Allstate honor; is a Teen Advisor for the Local Chapter of the Modern Woodmen of American.

When she has time, Lulf enjoys helping on her grandpa’s farm. “I have learned the farming business from working cows to pulling weeds in the tree belt. This has taught me a good work ethic,” Lulf says.

To learn more about how South Dakota Farmers Union invests in South Dakota youth, visit www.sdfu.org. ■

A new interactive map gives South Dakota agriculture producers an opportunity to closely follow research and development occurring at SDSU Field Stations and on-farm studies explained Dave Clay, Professor of Soil Science at South Dakota State University.

“Truly a new way to communicate with you our partners in the fi eld - the interactive map allows anyone to post comments about a particular project and share these projects via Facebook, Twitter or email,” said Clay of the interactive map co-sponsored by SDSU Extension, South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council and local producers.

Each project lists a contact for the project leader allowing for direct questions or comments.

The interactive map is now up and running at iGrow.org (www.igrow.crowdmap.com).

Other features include mobile apps for Android and iOS (Phone/iPad) operating systems, allowing users to post observations as they see them. Comments, conversations, and questions from the public are welcome.

Currently, the site highlights on-farm projects associated with producing 100 bushels of soybeans per acre, managing saline and sodic problems, precision soybean planting, increasing energy effi ciency, and increasing grazing effi ciency.

He encourages growers to leave a comment, ask a question or download the mobile app to comment in the fi eld. To learn more, visit iGrow.org. ■

Interactive Map for SDSU Research Projects

July/August 2014 15

Union Farmer

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SDSU Agriculture Economics Graduate Student is Recipient of the $2,500 Farmers Union Foundation Scholarship

College isn’t cheap. Expenses could have stopped Melinda Sommer from going on to pursue a master’s degree in Agriculture Economics, but thanks to the $2,500 Farmers Union Foundation Scholarship and a graduate assistantship, the Fairfax, Minn., farm girl can focus on furthering her education and not worry about sinking deeper into debt.

“This scholarship really helps me because I already have four years of college loans to pay back. It allows me to be more focused on my studies and not stress out about part-time jobs,” said Sommer, who is on an accelerated track, and will earn her masters in Agriculture Economics within a year.

The Farmers Union Foundation Scholarship is designed to help retain talent in South Dakota to support South Dakota’s agriculture industry. It is open to students pursuing a graduate degree in research, animal science, agriculture business or agriculture education at an accredited South Dakota school.

“Education is our future. This scholarship is one way Farmers Union works to help retain highly

skilled individuals in South Dakota,” said Karla Hofhenke, Executive Director of South Dakota Farmers Union.

Although she doesn’t know exactly what her future career holds; Sommer is determined to remain involved in the agriculture industry. “I enjoy working on

my family’s farm and am looking for opportunities within the agriculture industry,” says Sommer, who grew up working on her family’s crop and livestock farm. “Farm work gave me a strong work ethic and an appreciation for the work that goes into food production.”

Sommer received a bachelor’s of science degree in Agriculture Business/Economics and a minor in Agronomy from South Dakota State University in 2013. To learn more about how Farmers Union supports the future of South Dakota’s agriculture industry, visit www.sdfu.org. ■

Melinda Sommer

Immigration ImpasseA great example of the lack of productivity in

Congress came in mid-July, with the announcement from House Republican leadership that immigration reform would not be considered before the November election. Although not unexpected given the lack of progress by the House in the last several months, the open admission of defeat from high-ranking members of the caucus offi cially dashed any hopes of progress.

Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., stated at a July press conference that his immigration bill, which would have likely served as the main vehicle for a larger immigration reform package in the House, would not be voted upon this year. He added, “it is highly irresponsible not to deal with the issue. By blocking reform … we are in effect abdicating our duty.”

The Agriculture Workforce Coalition (AWC), of which NFU is a part, agreed wholeheartedly and issued a press release that stated, “We echo the disappointment he expressed today that [Rep. Diaz-Balart’s] immigration bill will not be taken up in 2014. The AWC agrees that it is imperative that the House pass an immigration bill that addresses agriculture’s current work- force, creates a viable agricultural guest worker program and bolsters border and domestic security as soon as possible.”

Only a year earlier, the Senate passed a comprehensive immigration reform bill with 68 votes that would have satisfi ed many of the needs outlined by AWC and was also endorsed by farm labor organizations. Instead of taking a tough vote on an issue that sorely needs to be addressed, the House will walk away from immigration reform.

Meanwhile, President Obama pledged to take executive action on immigration issues. These are welcome steps that can temporarily solve labor shortages and other legal challenges to immigrants. His power is limited, however, and will almost certainly not be able to address all the problems faced by agriculture. Bold legislative leadership could, however, and NFU remains optimistic that pressure can help push comprehensive reform along… next year.

Also in July, the AWC unveiled an up- dated and strengthened website to help amplify agriculture’s call for immigration reform. The revitalized site can be found at www.agworkforcecoalition.org. ■

Farmers Union Foundation Open Golf Tournament Raises $15,000

Farmers Union Foundation Open Golf Tournament was held June 18 at Spring Creek Golf Course in Harrisburg. $15,000 was raised to fund Farmers Union leadership education.

Top three teams were; First place, Foster Farm team, with a 58. Team members included Mitchell Foster, Jameson Clarke, Todd Foster and James Benning. Second place team, Poet Pioneers with a 60. Team members included; Kirk Overaas, Ben Morgan, Chris Morey and Bob Berens. Third place, Hofer Insurance with a 63. Team members included; Steve Anderson, Rich Hofer, Brian Hofer and Nathan Hofer.

Each year more than 3,000 youth participate in Farmers Union Youth Programming. The foundation funds these leadership-focused activities designed specifi cally to provide rural youth, ages 6 through 18, with leadership and life skills as well as insight into South Dakota’s number one industry of agriculture. ■

1st Place - Foster Farms 2nd Place - Poet Pioneers 3rd Place - Hofer Insurance Agency

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Troy Hunhoff Selected to Participate in the NFU

Beginning Farmer InstituteSouth Dakota Farmers Union member, Troy

Hunhoff of Yankton, is among the 15 members selected from across the nation to participate in the fourth class of the National Farmers Union Beginning Farmer Institute.

Those selected for the next class are Nicole Vojtech of Ohio; Tracey Zink of Nebraska; Courtney Krueger of North Dakota; Chris Holman and Kriss Marion of Wisconsin; Harrison Topp of Colorado; Glen Hughes and Thomas Clark of Indiana; Erin Bailey of Washington; Rick Duvall of Illinois; Chelsea Kruse of New Hampshire; Troy Hunhoff of South Dakota; Nicholas Levendofsky, Matt and Leah Ubel of Kansas.

“The Beginning Farmer Institute underscores our commitment to growing a new generation of family agriculture,” said NFU President Roger Johnson. “The program helps answer questions new farmers have. It also allows us to share our expertise to answer questions that people might not think of asking when they begin farming.”

Institute participants will meet several times over the next year to learn about fi nancial planning, farm management and farmer-owned cooperatives. In addition, they will help determine the agenda based on what they have identifi ed as important to their operation. Topics include marketing, understanding U.S. Department of Agriculture programs, renewable energy, recording keeping, farm transitioning and understanding the local food system.

“Farming is both a profession and a way of life, and it demands a lot from people,” said Johnson. “Farmers are entrepreneurs, conservationists, mechanics and managers, and they have to do all of these things well in order to operate a farm around the clock, month after month, year after year. They grow our nation’s food, feed, fuel and fi ber from the ground up.”

The selected individuals from across the nation range from cattle ranchers and grain farmers to those growing for farmers markets to urban farmers. The program is sponsored in part by Farm Credit, CHS Foundation, FUI Foundation and the NFU Foundation. ■

Current commodity prices make this the ideal time to promote the performance enhancing benefi ts of E-30 (used in standard autos), says Doug Sombke, South Dakota Farmers Union President.

“No one wanted to discuss ethanol when corn prices were $8 a bushel. Now that prices are down, South Dakotans are ready to pay attention to ethanol for its performance boosting qualities as well as the economic benefi ts,” says Sombke, of the motivation behind Farmers Union’s decision to launch a statewide campaign to promote the benefi ts of E-30.

The campaign will include newspaper ads and posters promoting the benefi ts of E-30 at fuel stations which sell E-30.

Premium E-30 is Your Standard Auto’s Best Friend

According to a study published in 2007 by the University of North Dakota’s Energy & Environment Research Center, gas mileage and road performance of some vehicles fueled by E-30 is equal to or better than vehicles fueled with premium gasoline.

This is good news for automakers explains Brian Jennings, executive director for the American Coalition for Ethanol.

“Tomorrow’s engines are not today’s engines,” Jennings says. “Automakers are going to need to dramatically change the internal combustion engine in the future to comply with new fuel economy regulations that will also limit the emissions of greenhouse gases from cars.”

Ethanol, Jennings adds is the key to both environmental compliance and performance. “Automakers have made it no secret that in order to make those engines work properly and comply with regulations, they will require a new fuel that is not on the market today. The most important ingredient is octane. That is where ethanol comes into play. Ethanol is the cleanest and most affordable source of octane on the planet. Without question, nothing

Farmers Union Launches Statewide E-30 Campaignelse competes. That is why there is so much promise behind a higher blend like E-30.”

This doesn’t surprise Orrie Swayze. A long time Farmers Union member and a past president of the SD Corn Growers Assn. the Wilmot farmer has been an advocate of the corn-based fuel since the early 1980s.

“The biggest promise of E-30 acceptance by standard auto owners is that it will allow our free enterprise system to transition our nation to a standard auto owner’s best value, lower cost, high octane premium E-30 gasoline pool. Auto makers agree they cannot create jobs, meet café standards, and be competitive internationally unless a higher minimum octane premium fuel, like their preferred E-30, enables them to market more effi cient high compression engines here in the US.

The root of Swayze’s advocacy for the development of the ethanol industry in South Dakota was his military experiences. “There is a lot to be said for energy independence. I served in the Vietnam War as a pilot and could easily see that the strategic value of oil would be the cause of the next irrational confl ict,” Swayze said.

Of course, economics also infl uenced his dedication. “Ethanol is an economic development powerhouse here in South Dakota. Each year ethanol has about a $3.8 billion economic impact statewide,” says Swayze, quoting a 2012 survey conducted by the South Dakota Ethanol Producers Association.

More Reason to Fuel Standard Autos with E30

About 1,900 South Dakotans are employed by the ethanol industry earning average annual salaries of about $60,000. South Dakota consumers save nearly 30 cents per gallon on E-10 versus petroleum’s unleaded or nearly $120 million annually. If standard auto owners move to E-30 they could save nearly 50 cents/gallon or nearly $200 million annually.

To learn more, visit ethanol.org. ■

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$100 OFFTHE PURCHASE OF A USED VEHICLE

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Farmers Union members get

Call 605-352-6761 ext. 116 for more details

July/August 2014 17www.sdfu.org Union Farmer

Union FarmerEach year more than 3,000

rural youth participate in Farmers Union education programming. To help fund that programming, South Dakota Farmers Union recently launched the 365 Club. A fundraising campaign for the Farmers Union Foundation endowment, by donating only $1-a-day, anyone can invest in

tomorrow’s leaders says Doug Sombke, President of S.D. Farmers Union.“Youth are our future. Farmers Union invests in our state’s rural youth by

providing them with leadership camps throughout the summer months and leadership and agricultural programming throughout the school year,” said Sombke. “Building an endowment is like planting a tree – we wish it had been done 20 years ago.”

To build momentum, the Board of Directors will match the fi rst 100 contributors who pledge $365 to the endowment. Overall, the foundation hopes to raise $10 million.

Hosted throughout the state, S.D. Farmers Union (SDFU) funds several leadership-focused activities designed specifi cally to provide rural youth, ages 6 through 18, with leadership and life skills as well as insight into South Dakota’s number one industry of agriculture. SDFU also provides programming to agriculture producers and agri-business leaders throughout the state.

“Investing in rural youth is investing in the future of South Dakota’s number one industry,” said Jim Wahle, who farms near Salem and serves as District 2 Farmers Union President.

Wahle and his wife, Kathy, were among the fi rst to join the $365 Club. He adds that along with leadership development, Farmers Union education programs also teach rural youth about the cooperatives which play an integral role in many rural communities.

“Those of us who live in rural South Dakota depend heavily upon cooperatives and its important our youth understand how they work,” he said. “I bank at a cooperative, I get my phone and internet service from a cooperative, I purchase most of my farm inputs from a cooperative, I buy my fuel from a cooperative and I sell most of my grain to a cooperative.”

To join the 365 Club, and to learn more about Farmers Union youth leadership programs, visit www.sdfu.org. ■

Donate $1-A-Day for Rural Youth

South Dakota Farmers Union will host Farm Bill Meetings across South Dakota in partnership with U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency.

The meetings will focus on the two commodity programs, Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC); which are included in the 2014 Farm Bill.

“The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) continues to press on with fi nalizing the procedures for new commodity programs under the 2014 Farm Bill and we want to ensure South Dakota’s farmers and ranchers have the information they need,” said Kristen Fink, SDFU Rural Development Director.

In late June, the Risk Management Agency (RMA) published initial rules related to crop insurance provisions. Most notable among the rule provisions are requirements for premium subsidy eligibility based on farmers’ compliance with conservation practices. Other parts of the risk management rule include reductions in assistance for farmers who convert native sod to commodity production through the Sodsaver provision, al- lowing irrigated and non-irrigated acres to be covered at different levels, and providing additional assistance for beginning farmers to purchase crop insurance. This rule is open for comment through the end of August, so please contact NFU staff if you have any specifi c concerns.

July 10, the House Agriculture Sub- committee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management held a hearing on commodity program implementation. Deputy Secretary Michael Scuse provided an update on the progress and timeline for when farmers will be required to make decisions regarding enrollment in the new programs, Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC). A few other examples of the initial fi ndings on commodity program implementation include:• When the one-time election for a fi eld to be enrolled in ARC or PLC is

made, that program will stick with that specifi c fi eld no matter if a different producer or owner farms that land at a later time. This applies through the next fi ve years and could be changed if a new farm bill is adopted in 2018 or thereafter.

• All farmers will have an opportunity to update their base yields and acreage, if they so choose.

• The ARC program is commodity specifi c if a farmer elects to use individual coverage, but if the ARC county option is used, the farmer must use ARC for the whole farm.

These sorts of important program specifi cs are still being fi nalized, so stay tuned for further updates from USDA and NFU in the coming weeks and months.

Be sure to check the SDFU website and your local newspaper for updated dates, times, and locations. ■

South Dakota Farmers Union Hosts Farm Bill Meetings Across South Dakota

18 July/August 2014

Union Farmer

www.sdfu.orgUnion Farmer

Waters of the U.S. Proposed Rule: Back in March the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued a joint proposed rule defi ning which waters would be under jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act. Since then, the issue has become the hot button issue in the countryside. Much has been said about the proposal. However, there are legitimate concerns that need to be addressed. Unfortunately, some of the proposed rule is vague, so further analysis needs to be done, and EPA needs to conduct more outreach to farmers and ranchers. NFU continues to provide constructive feedback to EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers.

COOL Hearing in Appellate Court: Legal proceedings regarding Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL) are ongoing. On May 19, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit heard arguments en banc in the case of the American Meat Institute (AMI), et al, versus the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). AMI and its cohort of multinational

Roger JohnsonNational Farmers Union President

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

WeatherAugust and Early Fall Climate Outlook

Cooler than average temperatures are expected to persist through August in northern South Dakota, according to the latest climate outlook from NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. The outlook, released July 17, 2014 indicates that most of northern South Dakota is leaning towards cooler than average temperatures for the month ahead, explained Laura Edwards, SDSU Extension Climate Field Specialist. Originally published on SDSU Extension/iGrow.org

For your reading enjoyment, we’ve pulled some highlights from South Dakota-based agriculture newspapers and websites. If the lead intrigues you, visit our website, www.sdfu.org for the rest of the story. If you read an article you’d like to share with fellow Farmers Union members, please send the headline, byline, publication and issue date to karla@sdfu.org and we’ll include it in next month’s In Case You Missed It section.

TechnologyDrone Safety on the Minds of Aerial Crop Sprayers in N.D.

Worried about safety, North Dakota aerial crop sprayers want better communication with unmanned aircraft operators. The state was recently awarded a Federal Aviation Administration Unmanned Aircraft Systems Test Site near Grand Forks, but as drones gain popularity, safety could become an issue for those fl ying aircraft outside the test site in agricultural areas. Originally published in the May 30 issue of Tri-State Neighbor, by Jessica Holdman, The Bismarck Tribune

LivestockHong Kong Market Reopens for U.S. Beef

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the United States and Hong Kong have agreed on new terms and conditions that pave the way for expanded exports of U.S. beef and beef products to Hong Kong. Under the new terms, Hong Kong will permit the import of the full range of U.S. beef and beef products, consistent with access prior to December 2003. The new terms become effective today, June17, 2014. Originally published from U.S. Dept. of Agriculture on June 17

CropsNew Ways Emerge to Combat Theft of Irrigation System Wires

Union County Sheriff Dan Limoges is still work-ing on leads after thefts of copper wire from irrigation systems last fall in the far southeastern corner of South Dakota. No arrests have been made so far, but he said “we got hit pretty bad last year.” He said about eight systems had the wire stripped out of them. It’s a problem that not only is diffi cult to prevent but also is costly for farmers and insurance companies. The thefts typically cause damage of about $10,000, while the thieves get only about $200 for the wire, Limoges said. However, there are ways to help prevent such thefts or even catch the thieves at the scene. Originally published in the June 27 issue of the Tri-State Neighbor, by Barry Amundson

National FFA Organization Names 49 Individuals as 2014 New Century Farmers

The National FFA Organization has selected 49 outstanding young people to participate in the 2014 New Century Farmer program. This exclusive, highly competitive program develops young men and women committed to pursuing a career in production agriculture. Andrew Rausch of Hoven is one of the 49 individuals representing 26 states who will take part in an intensive seminar July 13–19 in Johnstown, Iowa. They will learn from each other and industry experts during a series of workshops and sessions. Originally published from National FFA Organization on July 9

Sweet Clover Isn’t Always So SweetIt’s the smell that earned sweet clover the “sweet” part of its name. But the compound that produces the heady fragrance turns deadly if the plant isn’t cured properly. The compound, coumarin, turns into dicoumarin when sweet clover hay is poorly cured. Dicoumarol is the active ingredient in many rodent poisons, said Dr. Gerald Stokka, extension veterinarian and livestock stewardship specialist at North Dakota State University. Dicoumarol causes blood thinning, which may lead to abortion or death from minor internal or external bleeding. Originally published in the July 12 issue of the Tri-State Neighbor, by Maria Tussing, Assistant Editor

Pasture & Forages General

meat companies and foreign competitors claim that their First Amendment rights to free speech are compromised by having to inform consumers of the origins of their food.

A three-judge panel of the D.C. Court of Appeals ruled against AMI a few months ago but allowed for a rehearing of the case on its First Amendment aspects. Eleven appeals court judges heard the case on May 19 during the en banc hearing and asked many probing questions about the rationale behind the COOL regulations. NFU has intervened in the case on USDA’s side and has participated at both the district court and at the D.C. Circuit supporting the current COOL regulations. NFU remains hopeful that the judges will affi rm the court’s earlier decision in our favor.

As NFU continues to participate in the legal defense of COOL, expenses keep racking up. Additional fi nancial support will be needed in this fi ght. Contributions can be made by contacting either the NFU offi ce or your state division.

Fiscal Year 2015 Agriculture Appropriations: Spending bills for the next fi scal year are in the process of being written, debated, amended and maybe even adopted by the House and Senate. The agriculture appropriations bills have been among the fi rst on both sides of the hill to get moving, and the fl oor consideration of the House bill began on June 11. Dozens of amendments were offered, including provisions related to USDA’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA), the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), horse slaughter, blender pumps, food safety, payment limitations, catfi sh inspection and dismantling the sugar program.

NFU weighed in on many of these amendments, although the issues that have received the most national coverage are changes to the school lunch program. President Obama has threatened to veto the bill if certain poison pill provisions related to school lunch were not removed from the bill. As of press time, the House Agriculture Appropriations bill has yet to be voted up or down, and the Senate awaits consideration of its own bill. ■

The South Dakota Union Farmer is published 10 times per calendar year with issues in Janu-

ary, February, March, April, May/June, July/Aug., September, October, November, and December.

All information for publication must be submitted by the 15th of the month. You may submit items

by mail to the State Office, P.O. Box 1388, Huron, SD 57350 or email items to: sdfu@sdfu.org

Doug Sombke SDFU President

South DakotaUnion FarmerA PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

South Dakota Union Farmer, ISSN 0745-8797, publishes ten times per calendar year, with issues printed in January, Febru-ary, March, April, May/June, July/August, September, October, November, and December. Copies are available for $3.00 per year (included with membership dues), and non-members annual subscription is $7.50. Advertising rate is $6.00/column inch. Periodical postage paid at Madison, S.D. POSTMASTER: Address changes to: SDFU, PO Box 1388, Huron, S.D. 57350-1388

Contact SDFU 888.734.8136 605.352.67611410 Dakota Avenue South, PO Box 1388, Huron, SD 57350

www.sdfu.org sdfu@sdfu.org

SDFU State Office Staff

Matt Sibley..................ext. 122 Member Advocacy Specialist Huron

Bonnie Geyer..............ext. 125 Education Director Huron

Rebecca Long.............ext. 115 Graphic Designer Huron

Luanne Thompson.....ext. 111 Administrative Assistant Virgil

Kelsey Schnetzer........ext. 116 Membership Director Wolsey

Kristen Fink...............ext. 118 Rural Development Director Huron

SDFU Board of Directors

Wayne Soren..........Vice Pres.Lake PrestonTerry Sestak...........District ITaborJim Wahle..............District IISalemFranklin Olson.....District IIIPierpont

Doug Sombke.........PresidentGroton

Joel Keierleber.......District IVColomeDallis Basel..............District VUnion CenterLynn Frey...............District VILemmonChad Johnson.......District VIIGroton

Contact NFU National Farmers Union 20 F Street NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001

Roger Johnson, President ~ Don Teske, Vice President Doug Peterson, Secretary ~ John Hansen, Treasurer

202.554.1600 www.nfu.org

Karla Hofhenke.......ext. 114 Executive Director

Huron

July/August 2014 19

Union Farmer

www.sdfu.org Union Farmer

I have loved fairs ever since my Grandpa and Grandma Sombke took their camper to the Brown County Fair my second year in 4-H and we stayed on the fair grounds. Grandpa was among the first ones to take his camper to the fair and park it under what seemed to be the biggest cottonwood tree I had ever seen. Then, as long as I earned a purple ribbon for my sheep project, we would go to the Grandaddy of them all...The South Dakota State Fair.

Today, 44 years later I still get excited to attend the South Dakota State Fair, even though my 4-H career ended long ago. I hope to someday pass this family tradition to my grandchildren.

I remember how hard my brother and I would work on our projects to earn the ultimate prize, a purple ribbon. Each year striving to out-do the previous one with more sheep -equaling more work. For no other reason than to prove to ourselves we could do it.

When our father saw how motivated we were, he took us around the open class sheep barn to purchase a purebred ram and eight ewes in our name. After 10 more years we had a 100-head Purebred Suffolk ewe flock that we claimed as our very own.

My grandpa never said it directly, but we could tell he was very proud of the work we put into making the Sombke name proud. As rewarding as it was to us, I’m sure Grandpa and my dad were just as proud to see our success. After all, if not for their efforts guiding us, things may have developed differently. You might say, it was a “cooperative effort” of three generations

From the PresidentAugust is here and that means Fair Time!

of Sombke’s who succeeded together.

As I reflect on those days, the famous words of President JFK come to mind as he addressed Rice University in 1962:”We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.”

Even though these words were spoken more than 52 years ago, they inspire me and many others to never shy away from doing the hard thing.

I imagine, as I’m sure many of you do, that had you chosen the easy route you and your family would not be where you are today.

What I’m trying to say is; life is about doing the right thing, teaching morals, respect, honor and dignity to everyone. That’s what I learned from my grandparents and my parents and I try to pass on to my children and grandchildren.

May you have a successful harvest and I hope to see you at the South Dakota State Fair on August 30, 2014 for the South Dakota Farmers Union Day.

God Bless all you do!