WorkLive. . Grow.Volume9Issue2 ATLANTA · CLINTON · FARMER CITY · MASON CITY
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1 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com On the Cover A Note from Michael Schmidt Central Illinois Ag: Celebrating 125 Years Degelman: The Pro-Till Advantage 11 Your Pre-Harvest Maintenance Checklist 16 Boost Productivity with MacDon 21 David Brown: Telling the Story of Agriculture 26 5 Things You Need to Know about AFS Connect 31 Rick Bell Construction Inc: The Night and Day Difference of Takeuchi 35 Garlisch Farms: Rolling Through Hay Season with Case IH 39 Employee Spotlight: Mark Boston 41 Photo Gallery in this issue Volume 9 Issue 2 3521 Wade Farms planting in McLean county with their Norwood Yieldtrac 48/15 planter. 125yearscelebrating18982023 paul a schmidt & son • schmidt IMPLEMENT • TIONALINTERNAMARCOTTE•-MARCOTTEschmidt•IMPLEMENTANSEV • DUNNH.GEORGE • Central Illinois Ag
In 1881, Richard Schmidt emigrated from Germany to Atlanta, IL and began to work in a local blacksmith shop. In 1898 he purchased the shop and began to cultivate a legacy that would stretch far into the future of agriculture. Now, 125 years and 5 generations later, the company is still family-owned. In 1926, under the 2nd-generation leadership of Paul A. Schmidt, the business signed its first contract with J.I. Case, transforming the business from a simple blacksmith shop into a full-blown farm machinery dealership, with blacksmithing becoming a minor part of the operation. In 1952, Richard E. Schmidt returned home from the Korean War and joined the family business. Just over 40 years later, in 1970, Schmidt Implement Company was formed from Paul A. SchmidtSchmidt.Implement Company, led by 4th-generation Steve Schmidt, joined forces with long-time International Harvester veteran Bill Marcotte, who brought over 20 years of experience to the business. In 1992, the company further strengthened its Central Illinois foothold by merging with Evans Implement, and Dave Evans became a 3rd partner. Another game-changing merger was soon to follow. George H. Dunn was a family owned Case IH dealership that opened its doors in downtown Farmer City in 1947. In 1973, the company incorporated and son-in-law Tim Reeser assumed part-ownership acquiring another location in Clinton, IL in 1977. On January 1st, 2001, Schmidt-Marcotte Inc. and George H. Dunn Inc. merged to create Central Illinois Ag, Inc. The company currently has locations in Atlanta, Clinton, Farmer City and a parts & sales location in Mason City, IL. Family-owned to this day, active owners are Steve Schmidt, Michael Schmidt, Tim Evans, and Brian Reeser.
Leadership Team:
dirwin@centralilag.com
It is hard to believe that this is already the seventh magazine that I have had a hand in creating over my past three years here at CIA. It has been a great way for me to put faces to names and meet so many of our wonderful customers.
Thank you to all who allowed me to visit your fields this spring during planting season! Hard to believe that harvest is right around the corner. I’m looking forward to seeing some of you back out in the field. If you’d like photos/videos while you’re in the field this season reach out to me – it’s always fun to capture your equipment and operation working in the fields!
Live.Work.Grow. Volume 9 Issue 2 is here! It has been another busy summer here at CIA as I have taken on more responsibilities in the accounting office alongside my marketing projects, and got engaged this June to someone several of you may recognize!
Although it has been another challenging year with price increases and getting equipment in on time, we thank you for your patience and your business, and we hope for another sucessful harvest!
Abby Coers - Marketing Director Jim George - Farmer City Store Manager
My son, Aric James, turned one on August 11! For his first birthday he got his first piece of equipment to begin his carpet farming operation: a 1/16 scale Case IH 8240. It’s been a fun first year as he has grown so quickly! Hope to see you all around!
Dawn Irwin, Assistant Marketing Director
Steve Schmidt - Chief Executive Officer
amiller@centralilag.com
www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 2 2
Michael Schmidt - President Brian Reeser - Vice President Tim Evans - Chief Financial Officer
Abby Coers, Marketing Director
3 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com 200AtlantaSharon St. Atlanta, IL 61723 (217) 648-2307 Clinton 1000 State Route 10 E. Clinton, IL 61727 (217) 935-8373 Farmer City 792 U.S. Hwy 150 E. Farmer City, IL 61842 (309) 928-2154 Mason City 130 Tonica St. Mason City, IL 62664 (217) 482-9760 Steve Michael(217)Atlanta,SchmidtIL737-7445SchmidtLincoln,IL(217)737-8669BrianReeserClinton,IL(217)519-4341JohnCoersNewHolland,IL(217)737-5674 Austin Coers New Holland, IL (217) 454-1358 Joe Farmer(217)Petersburg,FisherIL303-1754DougFranzenCity,IL(309)275-8556MichaelWheetHeyworth,IL(309)613-0556 Tyler Williams San Jose, IL (309) Champaign,(217)(309)Adam620-3665DavisMcLean,IL261-1351ToddIrwinClinton,IL871-9800JonYaklichIL(815)993-3849 SalesLocationsTeam
michael
As we approach harvest season, I want to remind everyone the importance of safety. Get your equipment inspected if you have not already. Whether you have our service team inspect and repair, or you do the inspection and repairs yourself – it is important to look everything over. Harvest can get very busy and in those moments it is easy to overlook a small issue that could escalate into a bigger problem, and we don’t want anyone to have downtime during those perfect field days in the fall. Stay safe during harvest, and know that we are only a phone call Weaway.have got an exciting year ahead of us; In 2023 we will be celebrating 125 years in business! I am very proud of the business my great-great-grandpa, Paul A. Schmidt, began in 1898. He started the business as a blacksmith shop in Atlanta, IL and look how far we have come in just five Asgenerations.mylategrandpa, Richard E. Schmidt, quotes in a 2019 video interview “I appreciate all the employees I’ve had over the years. Employees are the business, not me. If you don’t have good employees, you have nothing, that’s for sure.” I’m very proud of all our employees and customers for growing the business into who we are today. When I look back what comes to mind are the successful times we as a dealership have accomplished. The seasons where the weather seemed to be in line and the seasons where the weather could have been better, but we still made it. The customers who are our Central Illinois Ag family. Your operations that have opened your doors for our team to help you succeed. The customers who have trusted us with our services. Thank you! Thank you for allowing us to be your Case IH family dealership, for allowing us to be part of your operation, and for helping the family business continue to grow! Have a safe harvest!
President, Central Illinois Ag
Michael
www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 2 4
President,mschmidt@centralilag.comSchmidtCentralIllinoisAg@MPSchmidtAg
A Note from Schmidt
In 1926, under the 2nd-generation leadership of Paul A. Schmidt, the business signed its first contract with J.I. Case, transforming the business from a simple blacksmith shop into a full-blown farm machinery dealership, with blacksmithing becoming a minor part of the operation. In 1952, Richard E. Schmidt returned home from the Korean War and joined the family business. Just over 40 years later, in 1970, Schmidt Implement Company was formed from Paul A. SchmidtSchmidt.Implement Company, led by 4th-generation Steve Schmidt, joined forces with long-time International Harvester veteran Bill Marcotte, who brought over 20 years of experience to the business. In 1992, the company further strengthened its Central Illinois foothold by merging with Evans Implement, and Dave Evans became a 3rd partner. Another game-changing merger was soon to follow.
Central Illinois Ag
George H. Dunn was a family owned Case IH dealership that opened its doors in downtown Farmer City in 1947. In 1973, the company incorporated and son-in-law Tim Reeser assumed part-ownership acquiring another location in Clinton, IL in 1977.
In 1881, Richard Schmidt emigrated from Germany to Atlanta, IL and began to work in a local blacksmith shop. In 1898 he purchased the shop and began to cultivate a legacy that would stretch far into the future of agriculture. Now, 125 years and 5 generations later, the company is still family-owned.
125yearscelebrating18982023 paul a schmidt & son • schmidt IMPLEMENT • TIONALINTERNAMARCOTTE•-MARCOTTEschmidt•IMPLEMENTANSEV • DUNNH.GEORGE •
On January 1st, 2001, Schmidt-Marcotte Inc. and George H. Dunn Inc. merged to create Central Illinois Ag, Inc. The company currently has locations in Atlanta, Clinton, Farmer City and a parts & sales location in Mason City, IL. Family-owned to this day, active owners are Steve Schmidt, Michael Schmidt, Tim Evans, and Brian Reeser.
ll
A memorable moment is the 100th Anniversary of Central IL Ag as he remembers the individuals who were in attendance and the families who have helped make Central IL Ag a successful business. Bill retired from the dealership in 2012.
Tim is currently the Chief Financial Officer for Central Illinois Ag.
Farm stops and customer visits were a favorite for Bill. His dedication to ensure the customer was taken care of is seen through his successful career.
Steve grew up visiting his great-grandfather’s shop, Paul A. Schmidt & Son, and began working in the business part-time from 1960-1976, and full-time in 1976. He continues to be actively involved managing and within the sales department in the family business as 4th Generation of Paul A. Schmidt.
Tim BetsyEvansand
Betsy’s husband and Tim Reeser’s father-in-law, George H. Dunn, began the family dealership in 1947 in Farmer City and then opened a store in Clinton in 1977.
Betsy recalls going into the dealership as a young girl and takes pride in the family Timbusiness.would bring his two sons into the parts department on Sundays to help do odd jobs. Beginning the conversation to merge dealerships with George and Mike McCartney is one of Tims fondest memories. Tim continues to enjoy working with customers and employess, and helping in any area of the business when needed.
Steve Schmidt Bill Marcotte
Bill worked for International Harvester for eight years before becoming owner of Marcotte International in Lincoln, IL from 1974-1988. Merging with the Schmidt family, the dealership then became Schmidt-Marcotte, Inc.
One of Steve’s favorite memories is working with his dad, Richard E. Schmidt and grandpa, Paul A. Schmidt. From sweeping the floors, selling, and managing, Steve has done it all. Steve has seen the name change from Paul A. Schmidt to Central Illinois Ag, and takes a lot of pride in the family business!
Tim and his father, Dave Evans, partnered their family business, Evans Implement, with Schmidt-Marcotte in 1992. Tim began in the parts department before becoming the office manager.
Tim Reeser
Tim credits his career success to three co-workers who have taught him a lot about working and life, Wayne Zurkammer, Dave Deverman, and Vicki Martin.
Tim enjoys seeing the business grow and working with and getting to know some great people over the years.
Richard Schmidt in front of the Blacksmith Shop, early 1900’s.
As Parts Manager for 23 years at Central Illinois Ag and 43 years total, Wayne enjoyed helping customers and valued their operations. He enjoyed getting to know the customers and took care of them. Wayne continues to value Cooper Family Farms from Mt. Pulaski for being so loyal to him at Central Illinois Ag after Weston Eimplement closed.
“I had three good leaders: Steve, Bill, and Dave,” said Marty.
Working as a salesman for 20 years, Marty enjoyed meeting with farmers, equipment demonstrations, and the training schools. Throughout his career, the dealership merged from Schmidt-Marcotte, Inc. to include Dave Evans, which allowed a greater variety of equipement to be sold.
Vicki MartyMartinClementz
Wayne Zurkammer
Marty’s advice to the younger generation is to be honest to the business and to your “Icustomers.hopethe future generations enjoy working at the dealership as much as I did,” said Vicki.
There are many memories of the dealership from converting to nearly all paperwork to be done through computers to merging ownership. One of Vicki’s favorite memories was moving into the new office building in Atlanta after the rebuild in “Central2014.
7 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com
In her 30 years of service Vicki was the bookkeeper for Central Illinois Ag.
Illinois Ag became my livelihood. It’s what I enjoyed doing,” said Wayne.
EVERY FIELD IS YOUR FIELD.
“Since we only have a short window to get our crops planted, everything needs to be as perfect as it can be,” says Scot Carter. “From monitors being set correctly, to getting just enough down force to close the seed trench, everything needs to run smoothly.”
“When we took the Degelman to the field and made the first round, we knew it was the piece we were looking for,” says Scot. It brought up a lot of dirt, ripped through the residue, and left the field level. They were amazed that only two rows of discs and a rolling basket could create such an excellent, finished result.
9 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com
Several years ago, their farm was two-thirds corn and one-third soybeans, so several acres were corn on corn. They chiseled corn ground going back into corn to help aid in breaking down residue and to alleviate any other issues the field may have. Now they are half corn and half soybeans and are not chiseling nearly the acres they used to, but recently began having issues dealing with more residue from improved genetics and higher yields.
The Pro-Till Advantage
The Carter family is continuing into their third generation of growing corn and soybeans in Athens, IL. They are mainly a conventionally-tilled farm with some no-till and strip till acres and understand the importance of an efficient tillage system to maximize the productivity of their operation.
Around that time, vertical tillage was becoming more popular and seemed like the right move to make. They decided to run a couple of vertical tillage tools before eventually hearing that Degelman was coming to the US market with their high-speed disc. They were skeptical at first, given that it was a newly designed tool that they had never seen before, but hoped the Degelman would be the answer to their residue issue. They decided to talk to Steve and Michael Schmidt at Central Illinois Ag before making their decision. After seeing the machine in person, they were instantly impressed with its weight and strength. “Usually, every machine has a weak point somewhere, but the Pro-Till didn’t have a weak point anywhere that we could see,” says Scot. “I don’t think you could damage the machine by how well it is built.”
“It is so versatile that it can either bury a lot of residue or lightly disc to keep residue at the surface,” says Scot. “It all goes back to getting set up for a smooth spring, if mother nature allows that.”
“The Degelman is such a simple tool to run, you set your depth with cylinder stops, lower it down and go. There aren’t any sensors or software that need to be used; it just couldn’t be any easier,” says Scot. “I would highly recommend it to anyone who does any kind of tillage.”
Scot Carter
Another feature they like on the Pro-Till is the rubber suspension on each disc arm. If a disc encounters a rock or an object, the rubber will allow the disc arm flex rearward then return back.
Scot says they have found that doing more tillage in the fall helps them to start with a dryer spring. In the
past, they noticed the soybean stubble would keep the ground cool and damp. However, last fall they ran the Degelman over all of their acres to bring up dirt and help dry the soil for next spring.
In corn stalks they like to run it two to three inches deep to pull up dirt and help make it flow easier through the field cultivator that next spring, and in soybean stubble they run an inch deep to move residue. On their more rolling ground, they set the Degelman to mix residue but not disturb much soil.
11 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com
Check out these productivity-enhancing tips to add to your master list, and make sure your combine is ready to hit the fields this harvest season: Do an efficiency check for grain-enhancing results.
When harvest is going smoothly, everything seems right — but are you really achieving your highest yields if your equipment is not properly calibrated for peak performance? Here are three things you can do right now to ensure you get the most grain possible in the tank:
• Clean your feeder house connections: Cleaning and inspecting your feeder house and feeder house connections and adjusting the feeder chain to its optimal tension will help you improve efficiency out in the field. Keep the feeder running in high position for corn or soybeans and low for wheat.
Your Pre-Harvest maintenance Checklist
• Check your feeder latch: Before you harvest, check your feeder latch and make sure it has some preload in one of the notches when the head is attached. This helps strengthen the clamp between the head and feeder so there are no crop loss gaps.
• Invest in paddle tines: With their unique “five-finger” design, anti-debris buildup and easy-to-install snap- on features, paddle tines can help gather short or sparse crops more accurately. That means greater returns and improved feeding of crops such as soybeans, wheat, canola, chickpeas, lupins and flax.
Do you have a pre-harvest combine maintenance checklist? If not, now is the time to start one. A great checklist should cover anything that has been overlooked or uninspected since last harvest: technology, fluids, filters, post-harvest maintenance routines and more.
Replace fluids and filters: They might not be flashy, but fluids and filters are one of the most important factors when it comes to maintenance prevention and equipment protection. Make sure to invest in genuine fluids and filters from Case IH — other generic filters simply do not hold up in comparison tests. Complete a harvest tech tune-up.
•
Check back with your Case IH dealer
The only thing worse than sub-optimal equipment performance is an equipment breakdown. You may have done everything in your power to harvest at the right time and in the right field conditions, but if your equipment falters, all of your preparation and planning can quickly go to waste. Take these equipmentprotecting tips into consideration before you head out this harvest season:
You know your equipment best, but your Case IH dealer can help you check blind spots to avoid otherwise unseen problems. If you want to make sure you’re completely ready for harvest season this year, get your list doublechecked by your local Case IH dealer, and visit www. mychnistore.com.
Inspect and protect to maximize uptime.
Technology is critical to achieving peak productivity during harvest — but it’s important to make sure your systems are ready to go with the latest software updates. Plus, you might consider investing in the latest harvesting technology for greater efficiency. Fine tuning automated settings during harvest can help maximize the amount of high-quality grain you harvest.
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• Inspect machine concaves: Inspecting machine concaves can safeguard against poor threshing. Not sure where to start? Consult your Case IH dealer for a thorough equipment examination.
• Know when to replace rasp bars: Replacing rasp bars at the right time is one of the most effective ways to prevent grain damage. Signs such as twists, breaks, chips, cracks or other damage can mean a replacement is due. Here’s the best way to tell: if you can’t read the number on the bolt head anymore, it’s time to switch out your rasp bar for a new one.
For instance, AFS Harvest Command™ makes harvest simple by reducing the number of functions producers need to monitor from 12 to just three. AFS Connect™ and AFS AccuTurn™ can help you take your precision farming practices one step further.
• Use stalk stompers: Stalk stompers are designed to protect tires from costly stubble damage, helping you to avoid downtime and improve your overall harvest performance and residue management.
13 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com Ease of Use for Operator Eliminates Twisting & Turning The biggest benefit of a right-side auger is that it makes unloading easier and more comfortable. Tractors are designed with controls and monitors on the right side of the cab. Compared to a traditional left-side auger grain cart, putting the auger on the right side makes it much easier to watch the grain cart unload, use the tractor controls and track monitors at the same time. This reduces the risk for mistakes especially during stressful moments and greatly diminishes the amount of twisting and turning while operating the grain cart. Ultimate Visibility Superior Forward Reach Provides Clearer View of Unload Auger J&M’s X-Tended Reach augers provide the best combination of upward, outward and forward reach. Combine that with the added convenience of an auger on the right side, and the result is a grain cart that is easier to unload than any in the history of farming. Tractor Seat Swivel Tractors Seats Swivel More to the Right Tractor seats swivel more to the right than the left. Some tractors swivel up to 32° more to the right making it easier to turn your seat instead of your body to see the auger. THE RIGHT VIEW Single Auger 1012 • 1112 • 1312 • 1412 Double Auger 1432 J&M Manufacturing Co, Inc • 284 Railroad Street • Fort Recovery, Ohio 45846 • (419) 375-2376 • www.jm-inc.com • sales@jm-inc.com 11-19-2021 FarmerClintonAtlanta City Mason City
www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 2 14 T R A N S F O R M Y O U R P R O P E R T Y I N T O A L A N D O F O P P O R T U N I T Y BUSHHOG.COM CUTTERSROTARY - SINGLE-SPINDLE - FLEX WINGS - MULTI-SPINDLE PERFECT FOR MAINTAINING A ROLLING PASTURE OR ORCHARD, OR CLEARING HEAVY CROPS
To Jim, the investment has been worth it when it comes to increased productivity during harvest. “The payback is definitely justified; in dryer beans we save 1-2 bushels per acre through less shatter,” says Jim. “I would say we have had a three-year payback on this head with increased bushels and efficiency.”
In Beason, Illinois, Jim Brown and his son Jared grow corn and soybeans on the farm that has been in their family for many years. In the 1930s, Jim’s grandparents, Tom and Venice Edwards moved to Beason from Kentucky and purchased land to begin farming. Later on, Jim’s father, Jack Brown, rented some acres of his own and began building up their Eventuallyoperation.
Jim and Jared Brown
Jim had the opportunity to purchase and continue the farm that his grandparents and his father started. Now, Jared is beginning the fourth generation of the farm.
Jared likes how well the head follows the contour of the ground, and how easy it is to make adjustments to field conditions if needed. Overall, they believe that the MacDon creates less strain on not only crop, but also the operator.
Although Tom swore he would always farm with horses, the Brown’s operation has always kept up with the advancements in equipment and technology. Jim and Jared have always relied on Central Illinois Ag for the best tools to make their operation as efficient as possible, which is where their MacDon draper head comes in. During one harvest over 10 years ago, Jim had noticed that his neighbor running a MacDon head was able to start cutting beans earlier in the morning and keep going an hour later at night after Jim would have to quit due to the beans getting tough. With being able to start earlier and quit later, increasing productivity in a day’s time was something Jim was interested in. He decided to ride with his neighbor one day and was instantly impressed. That next spring, they purchased their first MacDon and have had one ever since. Today they run a FD135, which is the third on the farm, and are continually pleased with its Accordingperformance.to Jim and Jared, the main benefit to having the MacDon is the even feeding of the beans as they fall onto the belt. “With our previous head, beans would frequently bunch up so we would have to run the reels faster to feed in the crop, which was hard on the machine and caused the beans to pop around and shatter,” says Jim. “The MacDon, however, is much gentler and tips them in with no Additionally,force.”
BOOST PRODUCTIVITY with
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Jim will be harvesting his 43rd crop this fall and is happy to rely on MacDon once again to get the job done.
17 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com Central Illinois Ag 200 Sharon St. Atlanta, IL 61723 (217) 648-2307
www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 2 18 Outfitted with split row units, the 3605 is uniquely suited as a dedicated 15" soybean planter, along with the versatility to plant crops in 30" rows. Equipped with dry or liquid fertilizer, bulk fill or row unit hoppers, True Rate vacuum or mechanical meters, hydraulic or ground contact drive, and other options, the 3605 can be built as unique as the way you farm. TRUE. BLUE. Advantage. VISIT YOUR LOCAL KINZE DEALER TO EXPERIENCE THE TRULY PRACTICAL 3605 Pivot Fold Planter | 16 ROW 30" | 12 ROW 36" | 12 ROW 38" | 12 ROW 30" Maintain consistent seed depth control with the durable True Depth active hydraulic down force system 80 Bushels bulk fill seed capacity; up to 600 gallons liquid or 4,400 pounds dry fertilizer Plant 15" rows with exclusive push row units that provide superior trash flow and seed placement Improved durability, longer wear life, and lower cost of ownership from 05 Series row unit upgrades Kinze.com Dealership Name Street Address City, State 55555 (555) 555-5555 www.dealershipwebsite.com Outfitted with split row units, the 3605 is uniquely suited as a dedicated 15" soybean planter, along with the versatility to plant crops in 30" rows. Equipped with dry or liquid fertilizer, bulk fill or row unit hoppers, True Rate vacuum or mechanical meters, hydraulic or ground contact drive, and other options, the 3605 can be built as unique as the way you farm. TRUE. BLUE. Advantage. VISIT YOUR LOCAL KINZE DEALER TO EXPERIENCE THE TRULY PRACTICAL 3605 Pivot Fold Planter | 16 ROW 30" | 12 ROW 36" | 12 ROW 38" | 12 ROW 30" Maintain consistent seed depth control with the durable True Depth active hydraulic down force system 80 Bushels bulk fill seed capacity; up to 600 gallons liquid or 4,400 pounds dry fertilizer Plant 15" rows with exclusive push row units that provide superior trash flow and seed placement Improved durability, longer wear life, and lower cost of ownership from 05 Series row unit upgrades Kinze.com©2021 by Kinze Manufacturing, Inc. All rights reserved. Dealership Name Street Address City, State 55555 (555) 555-5555 www.dealershipwebsite.com Central Illinois Ag 200 Sharon St. Atlanta, IL 61723 (217) centralilag.com648-2307
Measure and Adjust DeltaForce makes it easy to get downforce right, by measuring the amount of downforce needed and then automatically adjusting the force on each row so that each row and each seed is planted at the depth you set and in soil free from compaction. Even when the weight of the row unit itself is too much, DeltaForce will lift weight off of the row unit to lighten it up so your downforce is right where it should be. DeltaForce simply ensures that each seed is at depth, and that each plant has a robust root system to maximize the yield it can produce. Take the guesswork out of setting downforce right and see improved emergence and yield, by adding DeltaForce to your planter.
precisionplanting.com/deltaforce
SettingsDownforceGetRight
Running a single downforce setting across an entire field causes yield loss because the setting is rarely correct. DeltaForce is an automated row-byrow downforce control system that measures and adjusts downforce every time there is variability in your field, so your crops will thrive for optimal Gettingyields.
downforce right is a balancing act - too little and your seeds emerge late and lose yield due to being planted shallow; too much and your plant’s roots are restricted and you lose yield due to the plant struggling to grow. And your fields are variable, so even if you get the setting right in one spot, it’s wrong in another. There is no way that you can make enough adjustments to your planter to get this setting right.
Call 217.648.2307 for more information about units in stock today.
Join the Thunder Creek Family Call 217.648.2307 for more information about units in stock today.
Thunder Creek trailers save you time and money when it matters most.
Thunder Creek trailers save you time and money when it matters most.
www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 2 20
Join the Thunder Creek Family
As a Premier Thunder Creek Dealer, Central Illinois Ag is ready with inventory in stock to help you cut downtime during planting and harvest.
As a Premier Thunder Creek Dealer, Central Illinois Ag is ready with inventory in stock to help you cut downtime during planting and harvest.
Telling the Story of Agriculture
“It is extremely important for us all to know where our food comes from, and equally as important that we in agriculture do our part to educate others,” says David Brown. With agriculture in his blood, paired with a love for broadcasting, David Brown combined his passions to create a successful career to have an impact on others, all while telling the story of Davidagriculture.grew up with his brother Joe, sister Sharon, and parents, Nathan and Bona Gene in Decatur, Illinois on his family’s farm that dates back over 150 years. In 1867, his ancestors left their farmstead in New Hampshire to move to Central Illinois for better farming opportunities. They had heard of the valuable soil here in the Midwest, and sought expansion, growth, and a brighter future for their family and their Theyfarm.
He doesn’t remember a time when he was not involved in the operation, but as he got older, his chores and responsibilities gradually changed. What began as gathering eggs and riding in the wagon behind the two-row corn picker, quickly became walking beans and baling hay with a 1953 Farmall M tractor, which is still on the farm today.
21 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com
Growing up, farming was all David ever knew. His mother and father were both actively involved in the operation, so every day he was right next to them.
found 40 acres of land in Macon County and began what would become a centennial family farm in the heart of Illinois. Today, David and his brother Joe are the fifth generation to carry on the family farm and would not want it any other way.
David Brown
“From a young age, I learned about agronomy, the importance of rainfall, taking care of a sick cow, and what a good field looked like; I never stopped learning,” says David.
At the start of sophomore year, he was given the chance to broadcast for Millikin football and basketball games on the school’s campus radio station WJMUFM which he accepted and continued for the next 3 years. Additionally, he became the sports editor for the campus newspaper. With these wonderful experiences, he developed a love for reporting, which stuck with him for years to come. As planned, David returned to the farm after graduation and in 1975 began farming with his brother, raising Hereford cattle as well as corn, soybeans, and wheat in Macon and Logan counties. “Sure there were easier careers I could have chosen, but I have always been proud to be a farmer,” says David. “It is humbling and motivating to have something to do each day that gives my life a purpose.”
David harvesting soybeans in Macon County. Behind the scenes of the WANDTV team on air. David meeting a viewer at the Farm Progress Show.
Since that day, David has spent 30 years reporting for WAND with his very own segment, Agribusiness Today, which reaches 32 counties in Illinois. Throughout the years, he has had the freedom to choose ag topics that he felt were important and create his own stories on them. “TV should have local content and there is nothing more local than agriculture here in Central Illinois,” he Throughsays. writing, directing, and producing his work, David soon became the face that so many recognized and looked up to as the agricultural expert in Decatur and surrounding areas. “I look at myself as an ag educator,” says David. “My goal was to appeal to a diverse audience, because we all eat.” He soon found out that those who were not as familiar with agriculture were often the ones who would approach him in public and thank him for teaching them something new, which he says was one of the highlights of his time on TV.
Along with farming, however, he continued to work at several radio stations reporting on news and sports and as a radio DJ. Then in 1991 WANDTV out of Decatur was looking for a broadcaster for The Farm Progress Show who had a background in agriculture, and they ended up reaching out to David. He accepted the job thinking it would be a one-time commitment, but afterwards, WANDTV offered him an opportunity to continue reporting on agriculture. David was honored to not only take on this new endeavor, but to have the chance to educate the public through TV about the agriculture industry surrounding them. “There is a lot of misinformation out there, so when I was given this opportunity, I felt that I had a responsibility to tell the right story,” says David.
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Eventually he went off to study Communications at Millikin University but knew that the farm was always where he wanted to end up. Being a smaller private school, David was provided with many leadershipbuilding opportunities throughout his four years, one of which being broadcasting.
From being in the field planting, to baling hay, to working with cattle, David always found a way to take what he was doing on the farm to create an educational story out of it. Viewers on the other hand, got to see the ins and outs of agriculture from a farmer himself who was a local, credible source for them to learn from for 30 years. At the end of 2021, David decided it was time to retire from TV, and pass down the Agribusiness Today segment to Sarah Michaels. He continues to farm today with his brother, Joe, and his son, Chase, who is now the sixth generation operator of the farm. He is hopeful that their farm will remain within the family for generations to come because of what his ancestors risked for it so many years ago. “This all started because two brothers were brave enough to leave the comfort of their home and convince their family to move across the United States for the opportunity to start a new life,” says David. Because of the farm’s history, it is more than just an occupation to David. He takes pride in his responsibility to take care of the land that they have worked hard to keep generation after generation. “This farm has a life of its own,” says David. “Although we have an emotional tie to the land, we are only the caretakers for so long until the next person gets the opportunity to carry on the legacy.”
David Brown and Sarah Michaels.
While he loved reaching such a broad audience, producing five TV segments per week while simultaneously farming full-time was sometimes challenging, but he always made it work. Most days, David would be in the studio by 5:00 A.M. and be back out to the farm by 7:00 A.M. during planting and harvest. On busier days, he would have to get creative and utilize his time in the field to record segments. “I had the best of both worlds: I got to do what I love, and I got to talk about it on TV,” he says.
*Engine RPM @ 2100 Case IH and CNH Industrial Capital are trademarks registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. For nearly 65 years, Steiger® series tractors have helped producers like you get more from the job in demanding conditions. With features like record setting 692 peak-horsepower*, best-in-class fuel efficiency, industry-leading comfort, and on-board AFS technology, more comes standard with the AFS Connect™ Steiger. See how much more the AFS Connect Steiger can do for your operation. GET MORE WITH STEIGER For more information visit caseih.com or contact your local Case IH dealer. 200 Sharon St. Atlanta, IL 61723 (217) 684-2307
25 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com See the difference this harvest season with the Brent V-Series corner-auger grain cart. Designed to be clearly visible from the side window of your tractor, the V-Series auger is further forward than any other cart on the market and features a completely vertical downspout for increased control when unloading. Invest in the best. Take the next step in your harvest journey with Brent V-Series grain carts. For more information, see your nearest Brent dealer or visit brentequip.com. Brent V-Series corner-auger grain carts are most advanced on the market. SEE the Difference UNVERFERTH MANUFACTURING CO., INC. P.O. Box 357 • Kalida, OH 45853 • unverferth.com • 750 to 1,500-bushel capacities • Unload up to 650 bushels per minute • Four-way downspout for precise grain placement • Steep tank slopes and recessed auger sump for complete cleanout • Patented soft-start auger connection and computerbalanced flighting for smooth operation • Available with 42” wide Equalizer or 36” wide tracks or highflotation single tires depending on model
3. AFS Connect looks at your data differently— and that’s why boundaries are required to visualize your on-farm data!
Share your files and data from AFS Connect with your selected and designated providers to get the most out of this year’s crop and prepare for the next. Send prescriptions from your agronomist directly to your connected vehicles and share as-applied maps wirelessly to a home office or agronomist or share information remotely with your dealer to help troubleshoot and keep your equipment running at peak-efficiency. AFS Connect makes it easier to work together to make smarter, more informed decisions.
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With AFS Connect, you can upload and visualize historical and current data from both your Case IH fleet and other makes of equipment. Get the most out of your agronomic data and gain valuable insight to drive efficiencies into the overall bottom line. Have data from other sources on your farm? AFS Connect can import agronomic data from both Case IH displays and many other companies. Learn how to upload data from you Case IH machines as well as from third-party sources.
1. You Already Have Access.
If you have a My.CaseIH account you’ve also got access to your AFS Connect dashboard. Just visit the My.CaseIH website and login. With product support and step-by-step guides, your My.CaseIH account has all the tutorials and tools you need to maximize your productivity with AFS Connect. Learn how to monitor, track and plan maintenance for all the equipment in your fleet, visualize your farm’s data and make more informed decisions about your operation. Get started today with our video guide.
The Top 5 Things You Need to Know About AFS Connect
Advanced Farming Systems (AFS) Connect™ maximizes your performance, productivity, and flexibility. Get more done each day and boost your efficiency with Case IH farming technology. Here is what you need to know to work smarter with AFS Connect:
4. AFS Connect imports data from Case IH displays as well as dozens of other companies.
5. Securely share your data with agronomists, your equipment dealer, and other trusted partners.
AFS Connect sorts each data point on your farm into the associated boundary, ensuring your data is as pure and accurate as possible. With spatial data sorting, all the activity that happens within your individual field boundary automatically stays tied to that specific field based on collected data coordinates. You can easily create field map layers as well, covering everything from seeding/planting, application, variety maps and more. From there, overlay your yield data over field maps to see all of the conditions that may be affecting your yields.
2. AFS Connect helps you keep track of what’s going on across your farm. Take total control of your equipment and agronomic data with remote fleet and farm data management. You can access important information anytime from your desktop, or, when you download the AFS Connect Farm app, to any Android or Apple iOS device. With geofenced boundaries and curfew rules you control when and where your equipment operates. Plus, your vehicle history logs allow you to visualize the paths taken by AFS Connect equipped vehicles over any 24-hour period in the last 90 days so you can make sure your equipment is optimized for maximum productivity.
29 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com Landoll Company, LLC • Marysville, Kansas 66508 • 785-738-6613 www.landoll.com AG PRODUCTS From The COMPANY Who Knows You BEST! ® 7500 Series VT Plus 7800 Series HSL 875/877 Series Tilloll Brillion Till ‘N Seed® Landoll Company, LLC • Marysville, Kansas 66508 • 785-738-6613 www.landoll.com AG PRODUCTS From The COMPANY Who Knows You BEST! ® 7500 Series VT Plus 7800 Series HSL 875/877 Series Tilloll Brillion Till ‘N Seed®
centralilag.com Check out our full line of corn heads at Central Illinois Ag DESIGNED TO GET THE MOST FROM • Low maintenance • Dependable • High harvest speeds heads
RICK BELL CONSTRUCTION inc. THE NIGHT AND DAY DIFFERENCE OF TAKEUCHI
Brandon says salesman Adam Davis and the service department at Central Illinois Ag have also been reliable and great to work with over the years.
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Rick Bell Construction Inc. out of Heyworth, IL began in 1987 by Rick and Kim Bell who built their family-owned business from the ground up. They started out doing small remodels and custom home projects as they worked to build their company into a successful small Sincebusiness.he was about 15 years old, Brandon Bell has been involved in his parents’ business. He could be found working on jobsites and running equipment throughout his teenage years, which led him to choose a career in construction as well. Today, Brandon and his wife, Julie, are the sole owners of RBCI, and they have several family members who work with them. Brandon’s mother, Kim, passed away in 2013 from breast cancer, and Brandon purchased the company from his father, Rick, in 2018. The Bell family continues to do remodels and build custom homes, in addition to grade work, general contracting, and project design for Severalcustomers.years ago, Brandon operated a friend’s Takeuchi TL130 skid steer. He was so impressed with the power and functionality of the machine that he reached out to Central Illinois Ag to demo one for himself. Seeing its performance firsthand made it an easy decision for the Bells to purchase their first Takeuchi. Today, they run a TL12R2 track loader and a TB257 compact excavator and could not be happier with the machines. “Switching to Takeuchi was not a price decision; it is just 100% a better machine,” says Brandon. Its capabilities make it physically easier on the operator, while the speed of loading and unloading make their operation more efficient. Due to the difficulty of finding labor recently, it is necessary to find solutions that can maintain their productivity with a smaller crew, and Takeuchi has done just that. “These Takeuchis are essential for a small family-owned business and crew,” says Brandon. “They easily make a two-man job into a one-man job.”
Brandon is excited for the future of the business and is grateful to have his own son who loves to help out on jobsites, just as he did growing up. “We are one of the last few small construction businesses around where the owners are hands on in everything we do, from designing to framing to construction, which is unique to find today.”
Brandon also points out that the hydraulic distribution is better than that of previous machines he has operated. There is less loss of power when using two functions at once, and greater power means greater Whileperformance.many of the features make Brandon prefer a Takeuchi, the one that stands out is the cab. “Considering the cab alone, this machine is night and day better than what we used to run,” says Brandon. It is high quality, spacious, and built for all-day comfort. With the large windows, rearview camera, and sloped rear deck, it provides exceptional visibility to the operator.
Additionally, Brandon says the rollup cab door of the TL12 makes all the difference, and he will not buy another machine without one. The cab door rolls up to open and allows the machine to operate with the door open or closed. Brandon says this has had a huge impact on communication while on the jobsite, being able to operate and speak with each other through the open door. He also points out the safety aspect of it; other manufacturers have a door that swings out, but Brandon likes the comfort of knowing that in the event of an accident if his machine were to roll over, he would be able to roll up the door and not be trapped inside.
Takeuchi has provided the Bell family with equipment they can depend on, helping to ensure the longevity of their operation.
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Full power. Full comfort. Full features. Case IH Farmall® Utility C series tractors are hard-working, heavy-duty workhorses with flexible options to handle any application. Designed with their weight distributed in six different locations, these versatile tractors push, pull and lift more without the addition of inefficient wheel weights. The powerful 4-cylinder, 3.4-liter engine is electronically controlled, turbocharged and after-cooled for quick throttle response. Plus, the emissions system does not require a diesel particulate filter – reducing time loss and fuel waste on regeneration. And with improved cab comfort, these deluxe tractors are more than ready to do their part to make long days a lot more productive. To learn more about Case IH Farmall utility C series tractors, visit us today!
and
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Full power. Full comfort. Full features. Case IH Farmall® Utility C series tractors are hard-working, heavy-duty workhorses with flexible options to handle any application. Designed with their weight distributed in six different locations, these versatile tractors push, pull and lift more without the addition of inefficient wheel weights. The powerful 4-cylinder, 3.4-liter engine is electronically controlled, turbocharged and after-cooled for quick throttle response. Plus, the emissions system does not require a diesel particulate filter – reducing time loss and fuel waste on regeneration. And with improved cab comfort, these deluxe tractors are more than ready to do their part to make long days a lot more productive.
To learn more about Case IH Farmall utility C series tractors, visit us today!
THEY’D BE RIGHT.
SOME SAY WE’RE FULL OF IT.
All
SOME SAY WE’RE FULL OF IT.
Dealer Name 1
or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. www.caseih.com SEE US TODAY! Dealer Name 1 Dealer Name 2 www.dealer_url.com000.000.0000 Dealer Address 1 Dealer Address 2 City, State Zip
THEY’D BE RIGHT. rights Case IH is a trademark States many other by
The Garlisch family of Mason county comes from a long line of hay and livestock producers in central Illinois. Today, Richard Garlisch and his son, Scott Garlisch, have continued that family tradition with their Case IH equipment.
Garlisch Farms
Linda, Richard, Scott, Brandy, Cooper, and Barrett Garlisch
35 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com
Rolling through hay season with Case IH
Richard’s grandparents, Otto and Augusta Garlisch, started the farm around 1925. They left a farm to each of their five children, including Louis Garlisch, Richard’s father. From there, Louis worked to expand their farm ground and build up their cattle operation.
Scott and Richard manage Garlisch Farms today where they grow corn, soybeans, wheat, popcorn, hay, and green beans. With such a diverse array of crops, their crop rotation is important year after year. A field may begin in field corn, then be planted in wheat directly after harvest. Once wheat is harvested in July, they plant 15” soybeans, then plant popcorn the following year. After wheat harvest, they also use their wheat stubble to bale straw to bed down their cattle. They run a cow-calf operation and raise Simental and Angus cattle as well as crosses between the two, which give them good mothers and feeder cattle. Additionally, they have a small show pig herd which Scott’s sons Cooper (5) and Barrett (3) like to take care of and show all around Illinois.
Itexperiences.isimportant for them to have equipment they can rely on to continuously bale hay throughout the summer, especially with the small windows of time that mother nature allows. The Garlischs have always had red equipment on the farm and have continued that tradition with their hay operation.
“We need the extra power and the enclosed cab when baling and moving round bales,” says Scott. “The Farmalls are strong enough to raise a bale, and small enough to fit in tight spaces in the shed.”
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The Garlisch family loves what they get to do each day and feel fortunate to have Cooper and Barrett to tag alongside them to become the fifth generation of the farm. “My favorite part of each day is waiting for the boys to get home from school so I can work with them outside,” says Scott. The family farm is near and dear to their hearts, and they would not trade this way of life.
“Austin will come out and spend hours showing us how to operate new equipment; the after-sale support is very important to us,” says Scott. “I can call Michael Schmidt up and ask him questions at any time too which we are grateful for,” says Scott.
They have been pleased with all the hay equipment from Case IH and are excited for the new pieces they have ordered for next year. Scott and Richard are happy to work with Central Illinois Ag, from getting parts from Randy in Mason City, working with their hands-on salesman Austin Coers, to having Case IH reps on the farm teaching them how to run their new equipment.
They take pride in their herd and work hard to develop good genetics and friendly cattle. Once they are born, they take the heifers and hand feed them so that they are all tame and halter broke. They have about 60 head in their herd which are at three different locations around their home. The Garlischs produce all of their own hay to feed their cattle. Both Richard and Scott grew up bucking bales and spending their summer in the hay field, and now Cooper and Barrett are growing up with those same
Richard loves buying and fixing up older tractors and then using those with an open cab to mow hay with their two Case IH DC93 mower conditioners. However, bigger, safer equipment is necessary after mowing, which is where their newer Case IH tractors come into Theyplay. use a Farmall 75C to rake and ted the hay and pick up bales from the field, bale with their Maxxum 145 and RB565 baler, and then use a Farmall 95U to unload the bales into the shed back at home. They love the comfort and safety of the cabs, the power and agility of the Farmalls, and the great hydraulics they have.
www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 2 37© 2021 Titan International, Inc. TWI, Quincy, IL. All Rights Reserved. Goodyear is a registered trademark of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. 1 (800) 872-2327 | www.titan-intl.com CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CENTRAL ILLINOIS AG DEALER FOR MORE INFORMATION Get in wet fields sooner with a minimal footprint.
www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 2 38 byGrowthAssociation Learn more and engage with ISA at ILSOY.ORG The Illinois Soybean Association is proud to represent farmers as we continually build each other up. Stay connected with us on social for year-round promotion, advocacy and education on your behalf, helping to expand possibilities for the good you produce.
Boston Employee Spotlight
the years, he has completed many courses to further his education including engine classes, planter classes, and skid steer classes. Mark enjoys the diversity of knowledge he has obtained through his years in the service department. Mark describes the service department in Clinton as family. “If you need something, you help each other,” he Sincesaid.day one on the job as a wash boy for George H. Dunn to his final day as a small engine technician for Central Illinois Ag, we are grateful for the 36 years of service that Mark has given to the customers, and Central Illinois Ag. During retirement, Mark plans to take more trips riding his Harley-Davidson. Mark and his wife, Paula, have visited every Harley-Davidson dealership in Illinois.
Primarily as a small engine technician for Central Illinois Ag, Mark was known as a problem solver within the community and service department. Amongst other equipment, he specialized in working on lawn mowers and was well-known for his knowledge.
People person, problem solver, and loyal to his career are all words to describe Mark Boston.
Beginning in 1985, Mark began his career washing and detailing equipment part-time at Central Illinois Ag. He wasn’t sure what he wanted to do for a living, but this part-time job led into being full-time for 36 years and to his passion of finding solutions, repairing equipment, delivering, and helping with setups within the service department.
“Mark was a great technician because he understood the customer’s needs, the value of their equipment, and he was also able to communicate well between the business and customer,” said Kip Hoke, Central Illinois Ag Service Manager. It was common for customers to request Mark to work on their equipment. Mark recalls many times, especially during season, that he would continue working until the job was complete, one time even using his headlights on the truck to finish a job. Seeing the clock at 5 P.M. meant very little when a customer was counting on him to fix their unit. A lot has changed since 1985 when it comes to equipment and engines, but one thing that remains the same is Mark’s work Throughoutethic.
Mark
Lincoln,
growing for generations
A gift of grain is a unique way to make a charitable gift to Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital. You can make a grain gift by simply designating ALMH— Foundation as the recipient of bushels of grain at any local elevator. Your gift will allow you to avoid the sale of the commodity as income, thus rendering tax savings. Please consider a gift of grain. Your generosity will help ensure quality local healthcare for generations. learn more about charitable gifts, please call 217–605–5006. Stahlhut Dr. IL ALMH.org/Foundation62656
To
06/22/21182–0457 Consider a gift of grain. 200
www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 2 Galleryphoto
www.centralilag.com 200 Sharon Street Atlanta, IL 61723
