Central Illinois Ag Live.Work.Grow. Volume 4, Issue 1

Live.Work.Grow.

Volume 4 Issue 1

In This Issue:

▶ Family Farming, Women in Ag, Innovative Technology ▶ Ag Making History at the Presidential Inauguration Parade ▶ Field Reports on Planters, Headers, Tires, Guidance & more... www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

1

Live.Work.Grow.

3 Michael Schmidt, President 5 Chad Colby, General Manager

Volume 4, Issue 1

7 Less Compaction // Better Traction 10 Highly Convenient Financing 11 Consistent Flow of Soybeans 15 High Quality Headers 18 Like Mother Like Daughter 19 Field Technician

20 CVT Brings the Ultimate Efficiency to your Farm 21 The Ride of a Lifetime 23 A Farmer Never Quits 27 Case IH 2150 // A Game-Changer 28 Hands-Free Turning Good for You and Your Fields 29 SmartFirmer: Secure Your Yield 31 New and Improved: Landoll 8550 Finisholl

37 Wagenbach Builders: Takeuchi Loyal 40 Employee Spotlight 41 Photo Gallery

Steve Schmidt Michael Schmidt Brian Reeser Tim Evans Chad Colby Abby Coers

Chief Executive Officer President Vice President Chief Financial Officer General Manager Marketing Coordinator

A note from abby. marketing coordinator, central Illinois ag As our seventh issue of Live.Work.Grow. is released I am reminded of the ever-changing technology in agriculture. This summer Katie Zelechowski joined the marketing team to assist me in digging deeper into what products and technology is currently being used and tested in and around Central Illinois for this magazine!

Abby Coers

Have an article suggestion or would like to advertise? Contact Abby at (217) 648-2307 or acoers@centralilag.com

A note from Katie. Marketing Intern, central Illinois ag

Junior at the University of Illinois majoring in Agricultural Leadership Education This internship has been really interesting and a great learning experience. As someone who did not grow up on a farm, I have relied on the patience and expertise of the growers that I spoke with to learn about agricultural equipment. To those individuals who welcomed me onto their operations, THANK YOU!

Katie Zelechowski

m 1 ¡ Central Illinois Ag ¡ www.centralilag.com

central illinois ag

Sales Team

Steve Schmidt Atlanta, IL (217) 737-7445

*Numbers listed are cell phone numbers

Joe Fisher Petersburg, IL (217) 303-1754

Michael Schmidt Lincoln, IL (217) 737-8669

Dallas Kaufman Danvers, IL (309) 613-0556

Brian Reeser Clinton, IL (217) 519-4341

Clay Witham Stanford, IL (217) 519-4346

Chad Colby Goodfield, IL (309) 361-5564

Mike Barringer Decatur, IL (217) 519-2918

John Coers New Holland, IL (217) 737-5674

Mike O’Neil Arrowsmith, IL (309) 275-8158

Austin Coers New Holland, IL (217) 454-1358

Doug Franzen Farmer City, IL (309) 275-8556

Ryan Curry Lincoln, IL (217) 671-5296

Larry Maupin LeRoy, IL (217) 620-8939

Corbin Richardson Champaign, IL (217) 552-5997

Locations Atlanta 200 Sharon St. Atlanta, IL 61723 (800) 762-2325 Clinton 1000 State Route 10 East Clinton, IL 61727 (800) 362-3866 Farmer City 792 U.S. Hwy 150 East Farmer City, IL 61842 (800) 334-8942 Mason City 130 Tonica St. Mason City, IL 62664 (217) 482-9760

www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

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Photo (above): Max Armstrong, Michael Schmidt, Chad Colby on the set of This Week in Agribusiness.

Photo (below): Marketing Intern Katie Zelechowski and Michael Schmidt talk about the dealership.

michael schmidt President of Central Illinois Ag talks with Marketing Intern Katie Zelechowski Katie: How did it feel to grow up at the end, it was generations of my family Central Illinois Ag? helping generations of their family.

Michael: As a kid I was always in the K: What is it like to be the President shop helping the guys do stuff like put of CIA? on wheels, service rippers, and inspect M: I am not the type of person who likes combines. I learned a lot about farming to sit behind a desk all day. I enjoy being and equipment from watching and hands-on with both my customers and helping the technicians. my employees. Being responsible for K: When did you transition into sales? 70+ families can be taxing at times, but M: I started in sales the year after I it is also very rewarding to know that graduated college in 1998. It took a few we employ a lot of people in central years to get into the groove of pricing Illinois and that their families benefit equipment but, over time I created my from it. own customer base.

K: What does CIA do for the farming K: Tell me about your first sale... community?

M: It was a great feeling because it M: On a basic level, we provide parts, meant that I had done something right. service, and sales of farm equipment My first sale was a used combine that to people that are growing food for the a family from northern Illinois had world. But, more than that, the biggest come down to see. The guy brought his thing that we do is become a partner in dad and grandparents with him to help their operations. We try to anticipate make the decision. Because it was my the farmers’ future needs so that we first sale, I brought my dad in to help can be ready when they are prepared to me make the deal. It was neat because in take the next step and make a purchase.

For these farmers, tomorrow is already over and they are looking several months into the future to make management decisions.

K: How does it feel to be a fifth-generation owner?

M: I don’t take that responsibility lightly. This business is one that my family

m 3 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

takes great pride in. We have always said that we will keep pushing forward so that we can continue to take care of our customers. I look at my four boys and hope that when the chance for them to take over the company arises, they will be excited to become part of this business.

K: What has been the biggest area of growth for the company?

M: Our ability to adapt quickly with the new technologies offered by the agricultural industry has been remarkable. We are a very hands-on dealership with our sales team out in the field, continuing to show our customers what the newest innovations can offer their businesses. By being flexible and trying new ideas, we continue to provide our customers with the best services possible. If something doesn’t pan out like we hoped, it doesn’t mean that we have failed it just means that we have some work to do.

K: What would you like to say to your customers?

M: I would love to see our customers be more proactive when it comes to maintaining their equipment. We have always been in the business of fixing things but with the current economy it is important for our customers to stay on top of managing their equipment so that their efficiency does not decrease.

@MPSchmidtAg

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It’s always flattering when others try to imitate your success. But with nearly 20 years of track leadership under our belts, we’ve picked up a few things the copies SEE US TODAY. missed. Like our exclusive five-axle design. It gives our Steiger ® Quadtrac,® Steiger Rowtrac™ and Magnum™ Rowtrac tractors a smoother ride and more power to the ground with less berming and compaction. Which is one of theCENTRAL advantages ILLINOIS of paying AG, your dues, instead of paying homage. Learn more at caseih.com/tracks.

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www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

CENTRAL ILLINOIS AG, INC.

4

Chad Colby

General Manager, Central Illinois Ag

I

t’s been a little over a year since joining the team at Central Illinois Ag and we have made lots of small adjustments in an effort to provide more attention to details. We’re very proud of the new commitments our employees have made to both Central Illinois Ag and to our customers. We strive to provide you with the latest in technologies, products and services to help you be successful as possible.

am always looking to research and push technology. Not only did we see success using the Goodyear LSW tires (see cover and page ). We also have several customers using an LSW solution on both auger carts and combines.

In many places of the country land rollers are very popular. Farming practices are always changing and recently we’ve seen land rollers in the area particularly used in One of our biggest objectives for soybeans. We tested a 62’ Rite-Way 2017 and beyond was to create land roller and we were fortunate to the benchmark for service in the test on several fields. ag industry. You will continue to see our team develop new ways to You can see this 62’ land roller at our support you with parts and service. Atlanta dealership and at the 2017 We are excited to launch a new way Farm Progress Show in Decatur, IL. of communicating with you thanks to our partner AgriSync. If you 2017 marks the 175th year of haven’t heard about it, ask, it’s going Case IH. Make sure to check out to change how parts and service upcoming releases of technology from Case IH including the CVX communicate with you.

Steiger, which will be on display at We were very fortunate in the the 2017 Farm Progress Show. spring to test some exciting new technologies here on many farms I personally had a chance to operate in Central IL. As most of you know a prototype CVX this spring and am I’m the biggest geek out there and happy to tell you it’s a game changer!

m 5 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

@TheChadColby Also, please, as we approach the busy harvest season be sure to keep safety on your mind everyday with your friends, family, and employees.

Chad Colby

Contact Chad at ccolby@centralilag.com

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www.centralilag.com ¡ Volume 4 Issue 1

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Photo: Todd Runge stands by his Magnum 380 with LSW tires.

LESS COMPACTION // BETTER TRACTION

T

odd Runge grew up on his family farm and started farming with his family in 1993. Each year, Todd looks to the agricultural industry to develop new products and technology that can help him produce more on his land. After doing research and weighing his options, he decided to purchase Goodyear Low Sidewall tires for his Case IH Magnum 380.

“LSW tires seem to be the most affordable option that also shows results in the field,” says Todd.

In the field, Todd was impressed with his LSW tires ability to distribute weight. The flotation in wet spots was better with these tires than he has ever experienced in the past. In addition, Todd says that using LSW tires instead of dual tires alleviates pinched rows.

“This is the first year that I have actually planted in tire tracks and there have been no emergence issues,” says Todd.

As his crop grows, Todd will keep an eye on his fields. If When Todd was looking to buy new tires, he wanted he continues to have good experiences with LSW tires, a design that would wear well on the roads and offer he says that he plans to use them on his other machines. an increased yield. After planting with his Case IH If, and when he decides to make a future purchase of 380 Magnum this season, he says he has already seen LSW tires, he says he will be sure to go through Central positive results.

Illinois Ag. Low Sidewall (LSW) technology allows for a smoother ride on the road and in the field. Each tire is designed to bear the same weight as a conventional tire but distributes weight more evenly over the ground. This engineering leads to less soil compaction and improved traction. LSW tires also reduce road lope which allows LSW equipped machines to road 30% faster than machines fitted with conventional tires. Todd says that these features are important for his operation because he does a lot of roading with his equipment.

“I always turn to Central Illinois Ag with any questions, they have continuously been a reliable source of support for my family over the years.”

-Todd Runge

m 7 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

REDUCED SOIL COMPACTION

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www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

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© 2016 Titan International, Inc. TWI, Quincy, IL. All Rights Reserved. Goodyear is a registered trademark of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.

When you compare the price of iron, be sure to compare your cost of money.

It pays to ask for AgDirect® financing.

That’s when you’ll learn that along with attractive rates, AgDirect® offers money-saving options to purchase, lease or refinance, with ag-friendly terms up to seven years and delayed payments up to one year.* Simple application and quick credit decisions, too.

Learn more about the brand of equipment financing that works for you: AgDirect financing. Available at your ag equipment dealer. Visit agdirect.com or call 888-525-9805.

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Buy, lease or refinance Variable or fixed rates New or used equipment Financing terms from 2-7 years* › Delayed payments up to one year* › Easy application › Quick credit decisions

m 9 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

*Subject to approval. AgDirect is an equipment financing program offered by participating Farm Credit System associations of AgDirect, LLP.

HIGHLY CONVENIENT FINANCING A FARMER’S PERSPECTIVE

L

ow commodity prices have lead to tough times for farmers across the country. With the present economic climate, it is crucial for farmers to conserve their money wherever it is possible. The highly competitive interest rates offered by Ag Direct have lead Rick Boyer, farmer in New Holland, Illinois, and Crop Specialist for Ag-Land FS to choose Ag Direct as his loaning institution.

has been able to use his preexisting line of credit which made signing-up simple. “Farmers like me don’t like to spend time doing paperwork,” says Rick. He says that his salesman, John, is always quick to update Rick on the lowest interest rates offered by Ag Direct.

“John Coers (CIA Salesman) is always readily available to help me with paperwork and update me on any changes.”

-Rick Boyer

Rick began farming in 1988 with his father Earl and brother Mike. Rick says that when his Central Illinois Ag salesman, John Coers, approached him six years ago John says he suggests Ag Direct to his customers and recommended the family switch to Ag Direct, it because the application process is so straightforward. was an easy decision.

The application itself requires few signatures and can be approved and returned the day that it is submitted.

Rick believes in taking advantage of financing options and saving money on lower interest rates when possible. Once the application is approved, the customer has He says that when purchasing high-dollar items like 30 days to sign it and turn it back in—a feature that combines, working with Ag Direct has allowed him to John says helps with time management. The low rates save money through the promotions that they offer. and dealer communication make using this financing By using Ag Direct through his local dealership, Rick option highly convenient.

Photo: Rick Boyer

“I would recommend Ag Direct to other farmers because of how competitive their interest rates are and because it has been so easy to use.”

-Rick boyer www.centralilag.com · Volume 4, 4 Issue 1 10

CONSISTENT FLOW OF SOYBEANS G

ilbert (Gil) Turner planted his first crop in 1972.

Tending to the same ground as his father and grandfather, Gil continues to farm corn, soybeans, pasture land, CREP ground, and raises cattle. Before he began using the MacDon Flexdraper70 nearly six years ago, he says that he dreaded harvesting soybeans.

consistency of grain flow into his combine.

He says that when he moved from an auger to a belt system he noticed his combine running smoother.

“I remember when my son Chip suggested that I switch heads and I said no way—I wasn’t losing enough bushels The MacDon header’s ability to run the reel slowly per acre to justify the purchase,” says Gil. allows for a steady, consistent flow of soybeans into the combine. Gil says that with previous drum heads his To prove his point, Gil and Chip set up an experiment windshield was always getting dinged and pinged with with the old auger head and walked the fields to see beans that the header would throw up. With the FD70, what beans remained after they had harvested. this is no longer a problem.

Gil says he was surprised to find that he had been leaving pods on many of the stems. Seeing the proof that his current head was inefficient, Gil decided to take the plunge and purchased a MacDon head.

“There is a tremendous difference in how the combine operates because now the beans feed nice and even into the machine,” says Gil. The unique three-section flex frame and Active Float System of the MacDon FD70 allows the header to harvest with consistency. Using on-the-go control of ground pressure, cutting height and fore-aft header tilt maximizes combine efficiency even as conditions change throughout the field. Gil says he appreciates that he can tilt the head and adjust the reel when conditions are tough from the comfort of his cab.

The biggest difference Gil has seen with the MacDon header as opposed to other heads has “I used to hate cutting beans, but now with my MacDon been the header I enjoy it!” says Gil. Gil bought his MacDon FD70 from Central Illinois Ag nearly 6 years ago.

“I started using CIA because I have the highest respect for (service manager) Kenny Cook. He is true to his word and does everything he can to fulfill his promises.”

-Gil Turner

m 11 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

www.centralilag.com ¡ Volume 4 Issue 1

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PERSUADING POLICYMAKERS:

TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE LETTER WRITING

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complete home addr ess.

13 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

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www.centralilag.com ¡ Volume 4 Issue 1

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High quality headers for high quality crops

“F

ollow your passion, do what you love. It makes life so easy,” says Jeremy Wolf of Wolf Ag Solutions in Homer, Illinois. This sentiment is one that Jeremy continues to preach to his two sons because he feels that he is living out his dream by farming. Jeremy began farming corn and soybeans in 1999.

1230F the perfect fit for Jeremy’s operation is the adjustable reel. From the comfort of his cab, Jeremy is able to move the reel forward, backward, up, and down, disrupting the fodder before it builds up to the level where he would have had to stop when using other headers.

“I have always had it in me to farm ever since I was a little kid,” says Jeremy, “I was the classic carpet farmer, taking my bar of soap and little toy tractors to farm on the carpet floor.” Today, Jeremy uses larger versions of the equipment he used to play with to manage his fields.

In addition to the adjustable reel, the Geringhoff Rota Disc 1230F also offers a shred superior to other headers.

By slicing stalk remnants vertically down to 4 inches, the Rota Disc not only harvests the crop, but also accelerates the breakdown of residual plant material.

Jeremy says the header pulverizes like nothing he has Jeremy grows both white and yellow food-grade corn ever seen before and that this feature has given him in his fields. As a supplier for companies like Frito more flexibility in making post-harvest decisions.

Lay, Jeremy understands the importance of producing quality crops in high populations. During harvest, While equipment has helped Jeremy fulfill his passion Jeremy relies on his Geringhoff Rota Disc 1230F to get for farming, the relationship he has built with Central him through the season.

Illinois Ag has also provided support. He says that in the last three years that he has worked with the dealership, When Jeremy originally looked into purchasing a new he has learned more from salesman and fifth generation header three years ago, his goal was to manage residue owner Michael Schmidt than he has from any other at the header. Using previous corn heads had proven dealership. problematic for Jeremy because the dry fodder would build up in front of the feeder house. When this would happen, he would have to stop in the field to remove “Michael Schmidt (fifth-generation owner the balled-up residue from the equipment, hindering of Central Illinois Ag) knows every piece of production. For a farmer who must wait until his corn equipment he sells inside and out which makes is dried down to 20% before being delivered to the him an unbelievable resource.” customer, this type of blockage is common but time -Jeremy Wolf consuming. Jeremy says that with his Geringhoff header, he easily overcomes residue build-up during harvest.

The key feature that makes the Geringhoff Rota Disc

m 15 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

www.centralilag.com ¡ Volume 4 Issue 1

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m 17 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com in Selma Alabama

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Photo (top): Kevin & Kathy Wilham proudly display a farm sign with their name.

Photo (side): Kathy Wilham in front of their Case IH Magnum 340 during Summer 2017.

WOMeN IN AG:

LIKE MOTHER LIKE DAUGHTER

“I

was a nervous wreck,” says Kathy Wilham of taking both the written and driving tests for her Class C license nearly 15 years ago.

It was at this time that Kathy started working alongside her husband Kevin on the family farm in Mount Pulaski, Illinois. In the beginning, learning to drive the truck was only one of the many skills that Kathy would need to develop in order to help out on the farm.

Kathy grew up on her family farm in Mount Pulaski. As kids, she and her brother and sister walked beans in the summers, managed 4-H projects, and helped in the garden. Kathy’s parents worked together on their farm managing crops and livestock.

Seeing her mother’s involvement on the family operation has continued to inspire Kathy’s efforts on the farm today.

At age 18, Kathy began working as a bookkeeper in a bank where she worked for fifteen years before meeting her husband Kevin. At the time that she and Kevin got married, he was farming corn and soybeans with his father. When their first child Kelsey was born, Kathy decided to become a stay-at-home mom.

Then, after their second daughter Kourtney was born, the need arose for someone to help Kevin in the

fields. Kathy stepped up to the plate.

“There was so much that I didn’t know how to do, and I was learning it all while raising our three and four year old daughters,” says Kathy.

that she has expertise in. Kathy’s ability to keep records balances well with Kevin’s lifelong knowledge of farm equipment, creating a strong partnership between the two.

During her first harvest, Kathy drove a grain truck while her husband and father-in-law worked the fields.

She says she remembers having her daughters with her in the truck cab, their little arms and legs swinging around while she shifted the gears.

Kathy says, “like any other business, it is all about throwing ideas back and forth with each other to figure out what is going to work.”

Over the following years Kathy continued to take on more responsibility as her father-in-law gradually retired. Today, she works the ground in the spring for Kevin to plant, and in the fall drives the auger cart. She says that harvest is her favorite season because she feels a sense of accomplishment knowing that that year’s crop has come to fruition. Throughout the year, she and Kevin also maintain over 40 head of cattle.

As Kathy has gained knowledge through being hands-on, Kevin says he has seen her confidence grow. “It just clicks for her now,” says Kevin.

After starting from scratch 15 years ago, Kathy has become a farmer in her own right. She says working on a family farm is a special experience because it allows the members that are involved to share both the experience and the stress of this important job. Like her parents worked their ground together, Kathy and Kevin continue to do the same. Kathy says seeing her mother actively cultivate the fields on the One of the most important tasks that family farm showed her at a young Kathy takes care of for their family age that women have an important operation is keeping the financials place on the farm. Growing up, she in order. would never have anticipated that she would follow so closely in her “I am a numbers person,” says Kathy. mother’s footsteps.

She says that she enjoys contributing to the operation through financial KATHY WILHAM, MT. PULASKI, IL management because it is an area CENTRAL ILLINOIS AG // WOMEN IN AG

www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

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“F

Brian Wilson

or the same reason that farmers farm. It’s just doing my part to help feed the world,” says Brian Wilson, Setup Technician for Central Illinois Ag. As a kid, Brian developed a love for farming equipment through his collection of toy tractors.

For a while, young Brian hoped to be a farmer. But over time, he says that he realized working with machines was his passion.

While in high school, Brian worked for two years as a car detailer. During this time, he transitioned to working on diesel machines where he says he felt more at home. Brian followed this passion to Parkland College where he completed the Diesel Program.

FIELD Technician

The Diesel Program led Brian to an internship with Central Illinois Ag. “Since the first day I started working here, it was clear that as long as I was willing to take it, the chance to do something productive and meaningful was always there,” says Brian.

On occasion, Brian has the opportunity to be one of the first technicians to work on newlyreleased implements. During this process, Brian is challenged to put together an implement from Case IH with the help of the instruction manual and his expertise. After this procedure, Brian reports back to Case IH about his experience assembling the machine and offers his own recommendations to improving the process.

The other aspects that Brian says he most enjoys about being a setup technician is helping his customers. “I’m most proud when I am dealing with a customer directly and I make them happy before I leave the job,” says Brian.

He says his job is never finished until the customer is satisfied with his work.

Dan Warren, service manager, says, “Brian has always worked well with our customers. He knows the equipment he sets up is in good shape when it leaves this facility.”

He says that his service manager, Dan Warren, has always pushed him to “be a better tech” by learning and trying new things.

Brian is a skilled technician that works to setup new tillage equipment and repair machinery. He likens the process of building an implement to putting together an adult-sized model car.

One of the best parts of the job, according to Brian, is “getting done with a new machine and realizing that I took it from being a pile of pieces to a full functioning, usable machine.”

m 19 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

cvt brings the ultimate efficiency to your farm

I

n farming — regardless of market conditions — it’s always wise to strive for maximum efficiency in time and resources. The Case IH Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is one of the rare technologies that can deliver both. And it’s available in models across the Case IH tractor lineup.

Consider these highlights that help No matter the job around your farm, make CVT the industry’s leading you’ll find the CVT powertrain in the powertrain technology: right tractor for the task. Whether managing day-to-day chores with ▶Available on Case IH tractors the Compact Farmall series; putting ranging from the 46-horsepower up hay with a Maxxum® series Compact Farmall® 45C CVT to tractor; or fertilizing, tilling or the industry’s largest row crop planting with the Puma®, Optum™ mechanical front drive tractor, the or high-horsepower Magnum 380-horsepower Magnum™ 380. series tractors, the CVT powertrain The CVT features infinite gear ratios ▶Engine and transmission provides the ease of use you need that allow the tractor’s operating automatically work together to to stay productive, along with the controller logic to find the perfect achieve desired speed without ever fuel efficiency you need to help hold balance of power and efficiency down expenses. breaking traction to the ground. for the work you need to get done. ▶ActiveStop lets you more easily These limitless possibilities let As you evaluate your tractor needs start and stop on inclines or the CVT find the best gear ratio for 2017, talk to your Case IH dealer smoothly accelerate from a stop through varying conditions, giving about how a model with CVT under any load without a clutch and you improved fuel economy and technology also can help you meet brake. more efficient performance. your needs for more efficient use of ▶CVT split-throttle design provides time and resources. easy control of operating parameters to achieve operation speeds and maximize fuel efficiency. ▶Pairs perfectly with our ISOBUS Class 3-enabled Feedrate Control system, available on select Case IH LB4 series large square balers. *Written by Case IH, blog.caseih.com, December 29, 2016

www.centralilag.com www.centralilag.com ·· Volume Volume 4, 4 Issue 1

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INAUGURATION PARADE JANUARY 2017

WASHINGTON, D.C. — When you think about the inaugural parade, held after a president of the United States takes the oath of office, your mind probably pictures limousines, Secret Service, military bands, soldiers and more.

But what about tractors?

the RIDE OF A LIFETIME That’s where former Tiskilwa resident Chad Colby, 46, now of Goodfield, had the opportunity to take the ride of his lifetime.

Colby is the general manager for Central Illinois Ag, a full-line Case IH dealer located in the heart of Illinois in four different locations.

The Tiskilwa native has also been

That’s right. Tractors.

While you expect to see these massive machines rumbling down the rural roads of Bureau County and any other farming area across the country, the sight of a long line of all makes and models of tractors in the Jan. 20 Presidential Inaugural Parade was, no doubt, a high point for farmers across the nation.

The Rural Tractor Brigade was organized by RFD-TV in its ongoing effort to “reconnect city with country.” The parade entry was titled, “We The People: Our American Journey.” RFD-TV invited every tractor manufacturer to participate, and those companies that confirmed their participation were Case IH, Challenger, John Deere, Kubota, Mahindra, MasseyFerguson and New Holland.

m 21 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

an avid speaker around the world on ag technology, and he has frequently appeared on “This Week in Agribusiness,” hosted by the wellknown Max Armstrong, an icon in agricultural broadcasting. Colby said Armstrong asked him to drive the tractor in which Armstrong would be riding in the parade.

Colby and Armstrong rode in a And for him personally? new Case IH Magnum 250 for the “(It) shows promise and Presidential Inaugural Parade. excitement for our new “(It’s) hard to describe; driving administration that agriculture Photo (above): Zippy Duvall, American the parade was amazing,” Colby was important enough to be Farm Bureau President, Max said. “As we passed by the first included in this event,” Colby family, both Max and I were very said. “I have had the opportunity Armstrong, Chad Colby Photo (below): View from the cab of the moved by it. The fact that both to do some amazing things in my our President and Vice President life, but this will certainly be one I tractor driven by Chad Colby looked right at us and waved was will always remember. (The) best very humbling. part was sharing it with so many people around the world.”

“Max and I in the cab — two adult men, and we were speechless,” Colby said. “It was an amazing experience.”

Since that memorable day, Colby said his phone hasn’t quit ringing with people asking him about the experience, not to mention the hundreds of messages he has received from colleagues in the agriculture industry.

Colby said he believes having an agricultural element in the parade was indicative of how important agriculture is to everyone in the United States, not to mention the world. *Article written by Terri Simon, Bureau County Republican

Princeton, IL , January 30, 2017, www.bcrnews.com

www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

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Photo: Jake Bloome, Joe Bloome Sr, Joe Bloome III

bloome farms

A Farmer Never Quits

m 23 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

“I

remember my dad putting weights in the seat of the combine to set the buzzer off so I could drive when I was little,” says Joe Bloome III, President of HITech Farms, in Christian County, Illinois. Joe III is a third generation farmer that works alongside his father Joe Jr., grandfather Joe Sr., Uncle Clayton, and Cousin Jake on Bloome Farms.

“I don’t want to have the technology that is out right now, I want to be the guinea pig for what they have coming out in five years,” says Joe III.

After graduating from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor’s Degree in Crop Sciences with a concentration in Agribusiness, Joe III returned to the family’s operation. He handles application and technology management for Bloome Farms. Joe III says that a major part of the farm’s success stems from each member of the family filling a niche within the operation based on his strength. “I’d credit a lot of our growth over the years to the ability of several generations of farmers to collaborate by integrating our talents,” says Joe III.

In addition to the improvements in the field, Joe III says there are differences outside of the field. The resources and service offered to Bloome Farms by Central Illinois Ag have been tremendous.

“Technology in ag is the most important thing because it allows your operation to expand.”

He says that data management is essential to his Joe III started farming independently when he was a operation because the farm is always trying new products freshman in high school. At this time, Joe III’s father and services. “It is so much more than collecting the gave him 20 acres to manage. Running his own ground information. You have to make meaning out of it all and allowed Joe III to make mistakes and learn from them figure out what is and is not working on your land so on small acreage before taking on more responsibility. that you can make future business decisions,” says Joe III. Throughout high school and college Joe III continued to grow his business every year by adding land to his “Case IH is forward-thinking and this makes for a great partnership with our company,” says Joe III. operation.

In December 2016, Bloome Farms decided to switch their fleet to Case IH equipment. Joe III says that at first, the family made the decision to go with Case IH over other companies because of the competitive prices. However, once Joe made the transition, he could see immediate results in the field that were even more important.

The different track options available through Case IH has allowed for less compaction and earlier planting in Joe III’s fields. He says that after planting this year, his crop has never looked better. The willingness of Case IH to take a risk and use new technology is the biggest difference he sees in this manufacturer opposed to others.

“Sometimes in business, some things just click and make sense. Switching to Case IH and working with Central Illinois Ag is one of those times. Brian Reeser, Owner of Central Illinois Ag, goes the extra mile to help our family operation.”

-Joe Bloome Jr.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

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JOE BLOOME SR. “A farmer never quits,” says Joe Bloome Sr of his career in farming for the last 60 years. Although his sons and their sons have taken over farming for Bloome Farms, Joe Sr continues to stay involved in the operation.

As a young boy, Joe Sr grew up with a father who drove cattle around the country in the 1890s. When he reached adulthood, Joe Sr bought and managed livestock of his own. Then, when the opportunity to farm ground arose, he jumped at the chance. “I bought land whenever I could because land was cheap back then,” says Joe Sr.

farming, it took five acres of corn to produce a bushel and smaller farmers harvested corn by hand. He says he remembers when the first combines came out to replace the “corn-pickers”. “People thought that the machines were the funniest things, they just couldn’t imagine that the technology would work,” says Joe. Today, Bloome Farms is known as a family farm with a knack for keeping up with the latest in modern technology. Joe Sr says that the farm stays current because of the leadership of younger Bloome generations.

Throughout the course of Joe Sr’s career, he has seen many changes in the agricultural industry. One of the most notable areas of innovation has been the planting equipment. The first planter that Joe used was only two rows and could move as fast as a person could walk.

From there, his planters grew in size from two rows, to four, to six. There was even a span of time when Joe Sr hooked two six row planters together to make a 12 row implement before the manufacturing company produced this size. He says, “When 24-row planters came out, it was a big deal because you could do so much more in the field.”

Another area of equipment where Joe saw significant changes is in harvesting equipment. When Joe Sr started

“I am lucky to have family to follow in my footsteps,” -Joe Bloome Sr.

m 25 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

1969 Photo: Joe Bloome Sr standing by his current combine in 2017

www.centralilag.com www.centralilag.com¡ ¡Volume Volume43,Issue Issue1 1 2626

Case ih 2150 // a game-changer

A

llen Sasse owner of 4 Illini Farms in Atlanta, IL brought in the 2017 planting season with the help of a Case IH 2150 Early Riser planter. As a third generation farmer in Logan County, Allen is no stranger to equipment and says that the 2150 is a game-changer.

The row unit and frame on this model are more durable than previous units, but the biggest advantage is the technological advances of the 2150. The planter is equipped with Precision Planting tools which make the 2150 remarkably efficient.

“The accuracy and placing of this planter is better than After the 2017 planting season concluded, Allen says any other planter I have ever used before,” says Allen. that he noticed the “durability of the row units, spacing of meters, and precision seeders” which made his investment worth it. As the growing season progresses, he expects to see more even ear size as a result of even spacing and emergence.

Allen says that when he first transitioned from the Case IH 1245 planter to the 2150, there was a bit of a The 2150 Early Riser planter was first introduced to learning curve. He credits the team at Central Illinois Allen through a demo hosted by Central Illinois Ag. Ag for making the process of learning how to use the He says the accuracy of depth and spacing impressed new planter easier. “Now, I would say that the 2150 is him most. The experience pushed Allen to add a 2150 very user-friendly and simple to use,” says Allen. planter to his fleet of equipment.

It is the excellent service and care that keep Allen and The 2150 is part of the next generation of planting his family with Central Illinois Ag. technology. Michael Schmidt, President of Central Illinois Ag, says that he would recommend this CASE IH 2150 FEATURES & BENEFITS ▶ Faster, more uniform emergence delivers higher yield implement to any of his customers looking to increase ▶ CleanSweep Air Cylinders productivity without increasing planter width. ▶ VSet 2 & VDrive Electric Drive Systems “Planting with the 2150 allows the farmer to plant 33% ▶ Two-stage closing discs more acres per day than a standard planter,” says Michael. ▶ In-Cab adjustments He adds that this model could save his customers from purchasing an additional tractor for spring work.

“Michael Schmidt (salesman) always takes good care of us. I am very happy with the sales and support we have gotten from Central Illinois Ag over the years.”

-Allen Sasse

m 27 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

hands free turning good for you and your fields

D

uring spring planting, it can feel like every time you turn around you’ve got more and more to do. New Advanced Farming Systems (AFS) AccuTurn automated headland-turning technology from Case IH can help ease that burden and improve your productivity.

Unveiled during this week’s National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, AFS AccuTurn takes the guesswork out of turning on headlands. And that can help you do a better job of tilling, fertilizing or planting while keeping you fresher through those long days in the field. Using software logic from the Case IH Autonomous Concept Vehicle (ACV), this nextgeneration AFS autoguidance technology provides hands-free, automatic and repeatable turns for increased productivity.

Whether navigating square or irregular fields, AFS AccuTurn automatically controls the entire headland-turning process with industry-leading path-planning logic. And that pays off throughout the growing season. Consider how during planting or seeding this technology sets the field up with agronomically correct layouts.

Then, during side dressing, spraying and harvest, your equipment precisely follows those layouts for improved efficiencies and higher yield potential.

Other productivity-enhancing benefits of AFS AccuTurn include:

AFS AccuTurn isn’t just for rowcrop applications. Small-grain and cereal-crop fieldwork often includes pulling multiple implements, such as tow-behind air carts and seeders.

Automated-turning technology can help reduce strain so you stay more alert to perform other endof-row functions when dealing with these increasingly larger and longer implements.

▶Turn-path planning and turnspeed optimization lets you seamlessly navigate the tightest turns and position your tractor and implement squarely into the next pass. The industry-exclusive Auto Speed feature provides automatic turn-path planning that adapts to each operation’s speed, including maximum-turn-speed alerts.

During this initial launch, AFS AccuTurn is available for any new ▶Precise product application helps and existing Case IH Steiger®, you manage and control inputs. You Magnum™, Optum®, Puma® or can intercept headlands or resume Maxxum® series tractors equipped field passes with optimal implement with AFS AccuGuide™ autoguidance position to reduce inconsistencies and an AFS 262/372 receiver, NAV often seen with manual steering II/NAV III controller and AFS Pro and mounted or trailing planters, 700 display. seeders or fertilizer applicators at the end of the field. ▶Multiple modes of operation, including two intuitive settings — Automatic and Turn Now — so you can customize the level of automation to the application at hand, from tillage and side dressing to planting and seeding. ▶Flexibility for skip pass or passto-pass capabilities lets you easily adapt to broadacre or row-crop applications, resulting in increased efficiencies and productivity.

AccuTurn automated headlandturning technology from Case IH incorporates smart, intuitive software logic to make turn-path planning easy, regardless of your skill level.

*Written by Case IH, blog.caseih.com, February 17, 2017

www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

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driving the need for growers to be increasingly efficient with their inputs. By understanding the soil factors that make up zones within each field, a baseline for preexisting soil health is provided to the farmer. From there, they can use this data to make management decisions and get the greatest return on their investments.

SmartFirmer™ Secure Your Yield

E

very farmer knows that when there is a problem in the field, the solution is to look underground.

Understanding the health of a plant below the soil makes all the difference when ensuring the health of the crop as a whole. One common problem that many farmers face occurs during planting season. When a seed is deposited into the v-trench created by the planter, it does not fall to the bottom of the V. This placement creates an uneven distribution of resources to the seed which causes some plants to grow faster than their neighbors.

In 2008 Precision Planting found the solution to this problem through the Keeton Seed Firmer. The firmer is specially designed to set the seed down into the bottom of the V, ensuring perfect contact with the seed and surrounding soil. By allowing each seed to pull moisture in as uniformly as possible, the firmer improves germination and emergence timing, thus increasing yield.

This year, Precision Planting took this idea further and added intelligence to the simple design of the Keeton Seed Firmer through SmartFirmer™ technology which is now in beta stages.

The real-time data provided to the grower through SmartFirmer™ technology allows him/her to respond in the seat of the cab, instantly reacting to field conditions.

This management allows for increasing emergence and yield potential in the field. SmartFirmer™ is a multispectral camera that uses light frequencies to measure field characteristics which are then translated into usable data for the farmer. The soil’s organic matter and water holding capacity are two of the primary measurements recorded by the device.

In today’s economy, input prices are highly volatile,

Ensuring Uniform Emergence Four of the main factors that affect uniform emergence are measured by SmartFirmer™ are moisture, heat, clean furrow, and organic matter. The first two factors work hand-in-hand to promote seed germination.

For a crop to reach its full yield potential, it requires uniform and consistent heat and moisture. Managing these conditions can be difficult with the varying soil types and elevations found in farmland. According to Eric Huber, Regional Manager at Precision Planting, plants that come up 36 hours behind their neighbors lose roughly 50% of their ear potential and plants that emerge 2 leaf stages behind neighboring plants will lose 80-100%. Because yield loss can increase by every hour, it is critical that uniform emergence occurs in the field.

To combat this issue, SmartFirmer™ technology measures moisture content in the soil. The “Seed Germ Moisture” feature measures the amount of water, given the soil type being measured, and projects whether or not there is sufficient moisture for germination in 3 days.

SmartFirmer™ also collects data on “Uniform Moisture” which measures the consistency of the water line within seed trenches. This data allows farmers to regulate their planter depth with increased accuracy in the field as soil type changes. This management ensures that each plant in the field has access to optimal moisture and heat.

The instantaneous sharing of information between the SmartFirmer™ and farmer allows the grower to make changes from the comfort of the cab. The information can also be used to create seeding prescriptions easily.

The user simply defines what populations that they would like to set based off of the organic matter ranges and the planter can then adjust accordingly.

Clean furrow measurements also help farmers use SmartFirmer™ to gain insight into their soil. The technology calculates the amount of residue mixed in the trench where each seed is planted and records this data. Once this feedback reaches the cab, the farmer can change row cleaner settings accordingly to be more or less aggressive.

m 29 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

Yieldsense™

As the farmer plants in-stride with his/her seeds, he/she picks up organic matter. The amount of organic matter that is preexisting in a field It Just Makes Sense correlates to what nutrients that will become available to the seedlings as they grow. SmartFirmer™ maps the organic matter ratios in the field, giving the farmer insights into variable rate opportunities may lie with seeding, fertilizer, insecticide YieldSense: It Just Makes Sense and more into the future.

Zone management is only as good as the definition of the correct zone.

Why SmartFirmer™ Technology?

Although other yield monitors Overall, SmartFirmer™ technology calculate the flow-rate of grain in has the ability to make a positive the elevator to measure yield, their impact on a farmer’s operation. projections can be misleading. It Unlike other, more complex zone can be cumbersome to calibrate management systems, Precision yield monitors, making this process Planting’s SmartFirmer™ accurately daunting for many growers. The defines spatial zones in a way that YieldSense system is the simplest is simple for farmers to use. The method to gain the most spatially key to the technology’s success is accurate yield data. that it gives real-time information to the farmer so that the grower Accurately Predicting Yield can respond in the seat of the cab This combine monitor is equipped to increase emergence potential and with a uniquely designed and therefore yield potential. positioned flow sensor, as well as a

speeds, the consistent paddle shape directs grain flow across the sensor and the flow sensor measures accurate flow rates for zone-byzone yield data. This yield data is then translated to the cab where the farmer receives the information in real-time. Integrating the physical with technical capabilities of this system allows the YieldSense system to outperform other yield monitors.

Why YieldSense: To calibrate the YieldSense system, the grower must harvest a minimum of 25,000 lbs or more and have a truck transport the load to the grain elevator. The weight recorded at the elevator can then be relayed back to the farmer who can update the YieldSense system with this information. This capability allows the farmer to continue harvesting while his crop is transported, wasting no time for recalibrations.

The Yield Sense system also uses a cloud-based platform which makes grain property adjusting kit its data easy to access on any device. that adjusts YieldSense on the fly, The mobile capabilities mean that making recalibrations a thing of the farmers can receive this information past. While traveling at different on-the-go.

For farmers, harvest is the result of their toils throughout the year. It also provides a time for the grower to reflect back on their input decisions. Using SmartFirmer™ technology and YieldSense allows the farmer to instantaneously see what happens from the input perspective and what the result is during harvest. Taking full advantage of this instant feedback allows the grower to optimize efficiency of his/her future inputs based on previous decisions.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

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new and improved B

Landoll 8550 Finisholl

rad Wade began farming with his father in 1989.

After working in the retail fertilizer business for a number of years, the pair decided to buy land from a grower who no longer wanted to farm and together they started their business. These days, Wade Farms, Inc. is run by Brad, his wife Kristy and their son Jacob.

Another feature that makes the Landoll 8550 Finisholl an ideal tool to use for fields with varying conditions is the self-leveling hitch which stays level between passes by directing weight onto the tractor drawbar. Jacob says that he noticed a big difference in this Landoll finisher compared to other models he has used in the past because he experienced no ridging with the 8550. The 8550’s hitch remains consistent regardless of which of the finishing attachments are selected. This hitch design allows the implement to be customized, ensuring that individual growers can individualize his/ her implement based on the desired seedbed.

The overall look and feel of the Landoll 8550 is also new and improved. The finisher folds easily and tightly using hydraulics, making it narrow for transport. Its outof-ground clearance further increases the safety of transporting this implement.

Brad says that the undercarriage on Landoll’s new model is well-made and heavier than previous models. He says, “it is built to last.”

For the past 20 years, Wade Farms, Inc. has relied on Landoll implements to till seedbeds for planting corn and soybeans. Brad says he has stayed loyal to the Landoll brand because the equipment is reliable and he loves the finish job that their tools do to prepare the seedbed. This year, Brad and Jacob tried out the Landoll 8550 Finisholl for the first time—and were impressed by the new design.

The service that his family has received over the past 20 years has kept Brad coming back to Central Illinois Ag time and time again. Whenever Wade Farms, Inc. runs into trouble with a piece of equipment, Central Illinois Ag salesman and 5th generation owner Michael Schmidt is quick to respond.

The Landoll 8550 Finisholl hydraulic system makes the front gangs easy to adjust. The single point depth control is simple to adjust from a central location which allows the farmer to fine-tune the tool to achieve ultimate finish operations. “Being able to adjust the discs is my favorite feature because it meant that I could change them as conditions changed throughout the field,” says Jacob.

“It’s not often that the owner of a business is out there working on the issue at hand but Michael Schmidt always handles major breakdowns immediately.”

-Brad Wade

m 31 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

...The Company Who Knows You Best Time is more important in farming today than it’s ever been, and it plays a major role in how good the crop yield will be. The 8500 Finisholl will help producers meet their time line during the crucial spring and fall planting seasons. Available in ten working widths from 19’ to 48’, the 8500 will increase your return on investment by creating the perfect seedbed and eliminating costly downtime.

Manage residue and compaction in a single pass with the Weatherproofer 1 from Landoll. Available in 6 through 13 shank models, the WP1 features disc gangs on 10 1/2” spacing that quickly resize and mix the toughest residue. Auto-reset shanks on 24” centers provide much better soil fracture than traditional 30” spacing. This allows you to run at shallower depths at higher speeds, saving on both fuel and labor while leaving an impressively level field. The WP1 is a true “set it and forget it” type of tool as the entire machine is set with a single adjustment.

8500 Finisholl 2400 Weatherproofer 1

1632RS Grader/Box Scraper Agricultural Seeders Because of Brillion’s precision placement of seeds, seeding rates can often be cut to nearly half of the rates previously used. In many cases the savings in seed alone will pay for a Sure Stand Seeder in just a short time. Don’t risk your crop to another system.

Don’t settle for less. Use the one seeding method that you can depend on to produce a top stand time after time…a Brillion Sure Stand Seeder.

The 1632RS Grader/Box Scraper is the perfect machine for the family farm or feedlot. With its standard equipment fold-down box ends, one machine can be used for every job on the farm – including building ponds, cleaning ditches, rebuilding terraces, grading roads, moving snow, digging irrigation ditches, leveling fields, scraping feedlots or clearing brush.

®

www.landoll.com

Marysville, KS 66508 www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1 32 785.738.6613

growing for generations

m

Please consider a gift of grain.

Your generosity, through the ALMH Foundation, will help ensure quality, local healthcare for generations.

To learn more about charitable gifts for healthcare, please call 217–605–5006.

33 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

182-0529

05/31/17

You’re I nvited!

PRODUCER-ONLY INDOOR MARKET

NOW through SEPT. 30 Saturdays 8 a.m. – Noon Expo Building | Logan County Fairgrounds | Lincoln, IL The ALMH Market features fresh produce, fitness classes, health screenings, cooking demonstrations and more.

TheALMHMarket.org

www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

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182-0530

05/31/17

BULK-FILL PLANTING?

WATCH YOUR WEIGHT.

KINZE 3600 PIVOT FOLD WITH HYDRAULIC WEIGHT TRANSFER Reduced fill time. Reduced soil compaction. Consistent depth control. That’s what you get with the 3600’s bulk fill and hydraulic weight transfer. Exclusive air seed delivery system minimizes the chance of bridging or plugging. Balanced split-row design. Optional hydraulic variable drive increases precision and versatility of seed population. Narrow in-line transport for easier maneuverability.

Contact your authorized Kinze dealer or visit Kinze.com/3600.

3600 PIVOT FOLD w/split row option 12 Row 30" / 23 or 24 Row 15" • 12 Row 36" / 23 Row 18" 12 Row 38" / 23 Row 19" • 16 Row 30" / 31 or 32 Row 15" • 16 Twin Row 30"

m 35 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

www.kinze.com

HARD-CORE COMFORT Long days will feel shorter with the all-new, amazingly comfortable MyRIDE™ suspension system on select Toro® Z Master® mowers.

The fully suspended, adjustable operator platform isolates bumps and vibrations so you don’t feel the rough terrain. It’s the Toro toughness you expect with a ride you won’t believe.

FEEL THE MyRIDE DIFFERENCE. DEMO ONE TODAY! LEARN MORE AT TORO.COM/MYRIDE

© 2015 The Toro Company

www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

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“T

he success of our family business goes back to what our dad instilled in us: work hard, work together, and each person should pull his own weight,” says Dan Wagenbach of Wagenbach Builders. For a company that originally started in the residential construction industry, Wagenbach Builders has developed into an agricultural construction business whose management team is one-of-a-kind.

In 1982 Si Wagenbach founded Wagenbach Builders in Tremont, Illinois. As he and his wife LaVonne raised their five sons Si, Jeff, Kurt, Dan and Andy in the construction industry, it was clear that Wagenbach Builders was destined to be family owned and run.

Today, all aspects of the business are run by Si and LaVonne’s children and their son-in-law Todd Dawson.

Wagenbach Builders specializes in post-frame building, excavating, and foundation work. In partnering with Butler Manufacturing out of Kansas City, Missouri, the construction company also offers pre-engineered metal buildings to its customers. Some of the company’s most notable clients are Grain Flow, River Valley Dairy, and Tremont Co-operative Grain Company. With the wide range of services offered by the Wagenbach Builders, the family relies on its fleet of Takeuchi machines to get through each job.

Photo: Kurt and Si Wagenbach on a job site in June 2017.

Wagenbach Builders

Takeuchi Loyal

Photo: Dan Wagenbach The Wagenbach Builders’ fleet is comprised of a TL8, TL130, TL150 and two TL250s. Si Wagenbach Jr says that he considers the TL130 to be the most crucial machine to their operation. The compact but powerful machine offers versatility and high visibility. Si says that the many attachment heads that can be run on the TL130 make his jobs possible. “We can do so many things with them—everything from pouring footing to setting trestles,” says Si.

Dan Wagenbach agrees with his brother that the versatility of the Takeuchi brand makes it superior to other construction equipment. He says that he uses the TL250 to do “just about everything” on the worksite. He says that the Takeuchi machines have been an essential part of Wagenbach Builders for the past 15 years. Si Jr says he can remember one of their first machines, the “There is not a job that we don’t use Takeuchi,” says Dan. TL126, which was used so much that the buckets wore out and had to be replaced on multiple occasions.

m 37 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

Andy says that the company’s older Takeuchi machines have been beat up and are well-worn but, with a new set of tracks, “they keep on going.”

While other brands focus their designs on comfort for the operator, Takeuchi produces machines with comfortable interiors and powerful exteriors that can get the job done. Andy Wagenbach calls them “the working-man’s machine.” Over the years, the family has tried other brands of construction equipment but, they always return to Takeuchi.

Photo: Dan in his TL150 working at an indoor riding arena.

Takeuchi machines are powerful, fast, and efficient according to Dan. He says that another important feature of Takeuchi equipment is that it is easy to use— which is essential for a company with 20 to 25 workers.

“Our employees have used other machines but they agree that Takeuchi is the better brand. I guess you could say that once we tried Takeuchi machines, we fell in love with them,” says Dan. The reliability of the brand also carries weight in Dan’s opinion. He says that time is valuable in the construction business and not having to worry whether or not the machine will break down is essential.

W

agenbach Builders have used Central Illinois Ag for the past three years. The relationship that the Wagenbach family has developed with the dealership is maintained through their salesman Ryan Curry. When Ryan first started working with the family, Andy Wagenbach told Ryan that he wanted the best equipment for the best price—and Ryan has delivered.

“I could not be happier with our salesman -- I would consider Ryan Curry (CIA Salesman) my friend.”

-Andy Wagenbach

Photo: Kurt laying rock in the basement of a home.

www.centralilag.com www.centralilag.com ·· Volume Volume 4, 4 Issue 1 38

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www.centralilag.com · Volume 4 Issue 1

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Employee Spotlight Kenny cook Atlanta

Number of years at CIA: 29

Service Managers

One day when I was visiting my dad (who worked for Richard (Dick) Schmidt at Schmidt Implement (Central Illinois Ag), Dick came by and asked if I had anything planned for the summer. I said “no” and he said “I’ll put ya to work.”

What I like most about my job is talking to people.

The owners of Central Illinois Ag have a vision for the agricultural industry.

They are always looking for the newest innovations to continually improve their customers’ operations.

In my free time I go camping and fishing with my family. I also enjoy target shooting.

My wife and I love to travel internationally. On one trip we cruised from Barcelona, Spain and ended in Rome with the Sistine Chapel.

Length of time at CIA: Started working for company in May, 2017 Finding this position was perfect timing because I wanted a job that was close to home and in a field that I love and CIA was looking for someone with my skill set.

I thrive on the fast-paced, always changing atmosphere of the service department.

Central Illinois Ag is a good fit for me because working with customers keeps me motivated to do my best.

matt daly atlanta

I love to spend time with my four kids as much as I can because family is important to me.

When I worked as a firefighter paramedic for 24 years, I had the opportunity to help a lot of people. During that time, I delivered three babies in the field.

Kip hoke clinton

Number of years at CIA: 34 I started with Central Illinois Ag as a wash boy out of college The goal that I strive for everyday is satisfying customers. It is important to build relationships that are strong now and in the future.

I’ve worked with both the first and second generations of owners (George H. Dunn/Dunn Implement).

Hunting, fishing, and cooking are what I like to do most.

My claim to fame would be shooting a big deer with my bow. He was 198” and something like that only happens once in a lifetime.

Number of years at CIA: 31 I started at Central Illinois Ag as a service technician.

My favorite part of the job is pleasing the customers. It’s not always easy but every once in a while, you get a thank you.

dan warren farmer city

George H. Dunn was a great guy, well respected in the community. He is the reason I started working here.

Just about all I do is golf in my free time. I have also worked for the local fire department since 1986 and have been the fire chief for the last 6 years.

I can fix just about anything if you give me time.

www.centralilag.com www.centralilag.com ·· Volume Volume 4, 4 Issue 1 40

Photo Gallery

m 41 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

www.centralilag.com ¡ Volume 4 Issue 1

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200 Sharon Street Atlanta, IL 61723

@Liveworkgrowcia

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