The Farming Families of Hutchinson County (SD)-September 2019 by The Farming Families Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2019

Meet the

KEPPLINGER Family

Left to right: Kreg, Kathy, Kerry, and Kyle with his wife, Kelsey

FAITH

FAMILY

FRIENDS

FARMING

At FIRST CLASS DENTAL CARE we provide ﬁrst class service and ﬁrst class smiles. We’re here to help you achieve your dream smile, whether that means a routine cleaning or beyond. We offer it all, including dental implants and ClearCorrect clear aligners to straighten teeth invisibly.

ClearCorrect clear aligners straighten teeth invisibly, without metal braces.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH DR. BEECROFT TODAY! 6703 S Louise Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57108 605.271.9330 | FirstClassDentalCare.com 2

plan is only honored The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub *This | September 2019 at First Class Dental Care. This membership is NOT a dental insurance plan.

OUR PHILOSOPHY There was a farmer who grew excellent quality corn. Every year, he won the award for the best grown corn. One year a newspaper reporter interviewed him and learned something interesting about how he grew it. The reporter discovered that the farmer shared his seed corn with his neighbors. “How can you afford to share your best seed corn with your neighbors when they are entering corn in competition with yours each year?” the reporter asked. “Why sir,” said the farmer, “Didn’t you know? The wind picks up pollen from the ripening corn and swirls it from field to field. If my neighbors grow inferior corn, crosspollination will steadily degrade the quality of my corn. If I am to grow good corn, I must help my neighbors grow good corn.” So is with our lives... Those who want to live meaningfully and well must help enrich the lives of others, for the value of a life is measured by the lives it touches. And those who choose to be happy must help others find happiness, for the welfare of each is bound up with the welfare of all. ~ Author Unknown ~

Call it power of collectivity. Call it a principle of success. Call it a law of life. The fact is, none of us truly wins, until we all win!

One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered. ~ Proverbs 11:24-25 ~

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

of Sioux County PUBLISHERS Garrett and Mindy Gross, AGE Media SOUTH DAKOTA MANAGER Garrett Gross, AGE Media DIRECT ADVERTISING INQUIRIES TO:

(515) 231-9367 garrett@agemedia.pub We have been in the auction business for over 60 years and sold thousands of acres of land, millions of dollars of equipment and much more. There is no job too big or too small, so give us a call and we would be happy to work with you.

DIRECT STORY SUBMISSIONS, SUBSCRIPTION REQUESTS AND OTHER CORRESPONDENCE TO: (605) 690-4071 mindy@agemedia.pub ÂŠ The Farming Families, Age Media & Promotion The Farming Families is distributed free exclusively to the farmers, ranchers and producers in rural Hutchinson and Turner Counties in SD. All rights reserved. Content in this magazine should not be copied in any way without the written permission of the publisher. The Farming Families assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Content in articles, editorial and advertisements are not necessarily endorsed by The Farming Families and Age Media & Promotion.

ADVERTISERS

Check out our upcoming auctions at:

www.WiemanAuction.com 44628 SD Highway 44 | Marion, SD 57043

1-800-251-3111 4

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

Advantage Ag Supply, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 AGE Media & Promotion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Avera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Baker Audiology & Hearing Aids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Benco Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Cortrust Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Culligan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Dakota Plains Ag Center, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Dakota Radon Mitigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 De Smet Farm Mutual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 DeKam Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Dimock Dairy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 First Class Dental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Flyger Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Gillespie Outdoor Power Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Grosz Sand & Gravel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Heritage Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Hofmeister-Jones Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Hutch Co H2Og Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Merchants State Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Murth Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 One American Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Open Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Parker Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Parsons' Insurance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Piper Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Rivers Edge Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Tea Chiropractic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Tieszen Memorial Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Visiting Angels Living Assistance Services . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Waddell & Reed Advisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Wieman Land & Auction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

CORRECTION: On page 8 of last month's issue we stated that adult tickets for the Oktoberfest in Menno are $20, they are actually $25. We apologize for any inconvenience.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE September 2019 With a busy summer filled with fairs and community events, Mindy and I have been able to meet literally hundreds of readers. It is always great to visit directly with our readers! It amazes me how sometimes the smallest detail from a story is what people remember most and find of interest. Those details can initiate the most wonderful conversations that lead into our readers/ friends telling us their own story! People often ask how we get so many great stories in the magazines. Our answer is simple: readers like you are always submitting recommendations. If you have an idea, please do not hesitate to contact us. If we don't get right back to you, please know it is not because we are not interested; we will get back to you as soon as we can. AGE Media publishes six different magazines every month, including our recently launched publications for Sioux and Lyon Counties in Northwest Iowa. We plan to launch two new magazines for Plymouth and Woodbury Counties in Iowa in Q4 of '19. We receive many requests from people who would like to be added to our mailing list. Those currently not receiving the magazine can do so in a couple of different ways: • We offer an annual subscription option of $50/year for 12 issues.

• Secondly, starting with this issue, we create a free digital version of the publications each month. If you have a smart phone, you can text your county name to 72727. (For example: For Turner County, text TURNER to 72727.) You will be added to a list to receive a text each month with a link to the online version of the publication and be among the first to read each issue. We will continue to provide our complementary hard copy magazines to the active farmers, but the text option will get the publication to more people at no cost. Keep the story ideas and suggestions coming and feel free to share the Text Messaging deliver option!

Garrett Gross Principal AGE Media (515) 231-9367 Garrett@agemedia.pub

FOLLOW OUR GROUP & LIKE OUR PAGE

Mindy Gross Publisher/Content Coordinator AGE Media (605) 690-4071 Mindy@agemedia.pub

Facebook.com/groups/farmingfamilies facebook.com/farmingfamiliesmagazine

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

TURNER COUNTY FAMILY

THE WALTNERS

Gary Jerke and Donna Zeeb, volunteers and coordinators of Menno Oktoberfest

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

There are certain unique landmarks that catch your eye as one drives the backroads of South Dakota. Whether it’s a well-kept old barn or unique silo or another interesting piece of folk art on the side of the road, these are the landmarks that make the county oil roads more enjoyable to travel. On the “Marion Oil” near Hurley, there is a field that is lined with old elevators on the north and south fence lines that is tough to miss. With 100+ elevators positioned in a parade like formation it begs the question, how did they all get there? The answer is very simple, Kevin Waltner put them there. The reason Kevin put them there is just as simple; he likes old elevators, nothing more to explain than that.

“I don’t really have a favorite elevator. I’m always looking for odd ones. They are getting harder to find. I’ll quit collecting when I can no longer go to auctions.” Brands in the collection include: Stan

Kevin and his wife Amy live 1/2 mile west of the Marion Oil on a farm that has been in the Walther family for 130 years. Kevin grew up in the house they now live in and perhaps this strong connection to the past or his love for the agriculture community is why the elevators have lined up like they have. Or, its just because Kevin enjoys the hunt to acquire more and the people he meets along the way. This interest in old iron led him to start attending auctions. “I went to an auction and didn’t want to see an elevator go for scrap so I bought it,” explains Kevin. “One day, I moved 17 elevators to the pasture with the goal of seeing how many it would take to make a mile. It took 125.” September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

enjoys harvesting south of Highway 18, because the ground is higher and you can look out the combine and enjoy the colors of the trees.” Kevin manages the day-to-day operation and Amy helps with field work. She says that she will never plant, however, she is the main combine operator.

Hoist, Kewanee, John Deere, Kelly Ryan, Valley, Crop King, and more. For the most part the collection takes care of itself and requires minimal maintenance and upkeep.

“Over the years, only two have been blown down by the wind,” chuckles Kevin.

Kevin and his wife, Amy, who is originally from North Dakota by way of Freeman Junior College’s Nursing Program, raised their daughter, Libby, on their farm. She is now married to Dalton Miller. The family enjoys hosting “Waltner Christmas” wh e n eve r yo n e g ath e r s at th e farm. Amy explains, “We’re so glad our nephew, niece and their families still want to visit though L to R: Chuck, John and Jeff Murtha their mom and grandparents aren’t REPAIR and SERVICE here anymore.”

Quality repair where the prices are fair since 1963

605-928-3361 1005 S 1st St, Parkston, SD 57366 murtharepair.com Family owned and operated since 1963 8

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

Other than Christmas, one of the more exciting times of the year is harvest and their family traditions that come along with that time of year. Kevin explains, “Amy especially

Kevin followed in his father’s footsteps when he retired from farming and just like his father and grandfather, he enjoys using and tinkering with old equipment. Holding onto the family’s farm equipment is important to Kevin as he jokes, “When a piece of equipment comes on the farm, we keep it… for a long, long time.” In 1928, Kevin’s Grandpa Ben (Waltner) purchased a new International 1020 tractor with a two-bottom plow for $895. He traded that in for a Farmall F20 in 1939. Kevin says the 1020 was always in the community, owned by a local collector. Then in 2005, Kevin bought it back for $900. The plow was not traded and has always been on the farm. The 1020 was the only tractor that was ever traded but is now back on the family farm as well. His antique equipment does have a degree of value, but to Kevin, the collection is priceless. So the next time you travel on the Marion Oil near Hurley you’ll know who is behind the collection of elevators lined up from end to end of the fence line, and you’ll know a little history of why they are there as well.

TEXT BENCO to

72727 for text updates! Proud dealer of

SPRAYER CONTROLS • SPRAY TIPS • PLASTIC FITTINGS • AND MORE

Your Ag parts dealer is here for you.

Benco Products Inc Daniel Severson 27093 Katie RD, Tea, SD 57064 1-888-649-4862 | dan@bencoparts.com

Specializing in

farm drain tile and general contract work

in South Dakota

DRAIN TILE DESIGN, PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND INSTALLATION RURAL WATER & DIRT WORK

TREE REMOVAL FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1973

605-376-2290

dekamconstruction.com

john@dekamconstruction.com

Moisture Management Solutions

to Increase Your Yields

Proudly using PRINSCO drainage pipes

GROSZ SAND & GRAVEL

Mike Redd-Owner

3 Miles West, 22 Corn Rows South

Mike Redd, Owner PO Box 101 • Delmont, SD 57330 mredds@midstatesd.net

605-779-6221 or 605-770-8975

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

KEEPING LOCAL HISTORY ALIVE

4-H:

A FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE History Recap Source: iGrow.org

SOUTH DAKOTA 4-H HISTORY The 4-H program grew out of the need to help young people and their families receive better agricultural education. The Morrill Act of 1862 established the land grant college system, which lead to South Dakota State College in 1881. Land grant universities looked for ways to share research with the public and found youth to be an ideal audience. Through Tomato Clubs and Corn Clubs, youth were able to participate in hands-on activities as a way to learn about agriculture. These clubs, referred to as 4-H clubs by 1912, led to agriculture and home management clubs for youth across America. In South Dakota, Minnehaha County resident William Mair organized the earliest South Dakota Boys Club, with the first meeting happening in 1906 or 1907. The Smith-Lever Act in 1914 created the Cooperative Extension System, tasking the land-grant universities in each state to get the university to the people. By 1924, the name “4-H” and the clover were officially adopted. Over time, 4-H has evolved to include both urban and rural youth and has expanded beyond agriculture. Today, 4-H in South Dakota teaches life skills and leadership to youth in the four program priorities of Agriculture, Science, Health and Wellness and Leadership. CAPTURING THE 4-H CULTURE The Elsie Carper Collection on Extension Service, Home Economics, and 10

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

4-H spans almost nine decades from 1908 through 1994. Elsie Carper compiled and preserved the history of home demonstration and 4-H during her four decades as an administrative assistant for the national 4-H program and nearly two decades as an historian during her retirement. Carper saved various items given to her by Extension specialists and program leaders and donated the materials to the National Agricultural Library. The collection includes materials pertaining to the work of three important people in the history of the Extension Service, specifically Seaman Knapp, Oscar Herman Benson, and Gertrude Warren. The collection spans 8.75 linear feet and occupies 14 archival boxes. Materials are in good condition. There are no restrictions on use of the collection. In 2003, Jan Scholl, 4-H Curriculum Specialist, The Pennsylvania State University, and Kate Hayes, Technical Information Specialist, National Agricultural Library, initiated processing of the collection. Barbara Stommel, Special Collections Librarian, National Agricultural Library, completed the processing in 2005. Additional materials contributed by Jan Scholl, including a history of the National Association of Extension Home Economists through 1975 and 4-H Club song records, were added to the collection in June 2006.

“Improving Family and Community Living Feb. 28-March 7 (1959).” Special Collections, USDA National Agricultural Library. Accessed August 11, 2019, http://www.nal.usda.gov/exhibits/speccoll/items/show/191

“learn, live, serve through 4-H March 2-9 (1963).” Special Collections, USDA National Agricultural Library. Accessed August 11, 2019, http://www.nal.usda.gov/exhibits/speccoll/items/show/195

SERVING SOUTH DAKOTA FROM SOUTH DAKOTA SINCE 1916

“Expanding Horizons (1979-80).” Special Collections, USDA National Agricultural Library. Accessed August 11, 2019, http://www.nal.usda.gov/exhibits/speccoll/items/show/211

FARM & RANCH “Pathways to the Future (1981-82).” Special Collections, USDA National Agricultural Library. Accessed August 11, 2019, http://www.nal.usda.gov/exhibits/speccoll/items/show/212.

HOME

AUTO

(605) 854-3337 | DeSmetFarmMutual.com September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

THE FUTURE OF 4-H: GROWING TRUE LEADERS The primary program areas of 4-H are STEM and Agriculture, Healthy Living, and Civic Engagement. Our Ag educators are making a difference by spearheading these programs. As students join the organization, it is critical that adults continue to encourage involvement in activities that provide hands-on experiences that help them build confidence and grow skills.

Sarah VanDerVliet, Ag Educator and FFA Advisor at TriValley School, at the Sioux Empire Fair (August 1999) with her cow, Manilow, who was rewarded the Reserve Champion Dairy Cow trophy

LOCALLY CARRYING ON THE TRADITION 4-H is not only an organization—it is a tradition: a culture that families have embraced for many years. Activities bring families together to teach youth about caring for animals, leading healthy lifestyles, and to be actively involved in the community, and much more. Former 4-H member Sarah VanDerVliet, Ag Educator and FFA advisor at her alma mater high school, Tri-Valley, carries on her passion for the organization to students and her children.

This is also where tradition comes in; it plays a key role in why families lead their children to get involved in 4-H. Former 4-H students—those from urban areas as well as rural areas— can testify to the benefits of 4-H and how it helped prepare them for their careers. 4-H gave them opportunities to grow, to travel, be involved in the community, to speak in public—activities that helped prepare them for the future. They learned by doing—learning, living and serving through 4-H. For more information about the 4-H chapter in your area, visit iGrow.org or visit facebook.com/SDState4H.

hog confinement cleaning & disinfection

After a week-long commitment to 4-H activities at the Sioux Empire Fair—from not only a leadership role as an educator but also from the perspective of a proud parent—she was reminded of what makes 4-H so great. “My favorite part of 4-H has always been family time. It is one organization that can get the whole family working together to achieve one goal.” Sarah’s parents, Kris and Mark Anderson, continued the tradition of doing projects with the kids this year. They tie dyed shoes, shirts, a car holder, drop cord, sewed a bag, sewed a mermaid, and painted a jewelry box. Sarah’s mother-in-law, Lois VanDerVliet, continued her tradition of baking cookies and breads. “A big part of 4-H is tradition,” adds Sarah.

LOCAL, DEPENDABLE & EFFICIENT hog confinement maintenance

(605) 251-6374 hutchcohogwash.com facebook.com/hutchcohogwash

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

LIFE LESSONS “Kids also learn the basics of running a business meeting/ parliamentary procedure in 4-H.” -Heidi Selken Zwinger, Tri-Valley High School graduate (Herd Manager at Boadwine Farms and Colton Hustlers 4-H leader) Heidi Zwinger and son, Brody Alquist

“I loved the motivation of making projects every summer for the county fair. I learned a lot of new skills from the different categories you could enter.” -Amanda Smith Miller, Tri-Valley High School graduate (Associate Professor of Biblical Studies at Belmont University) Amanda (Smith) Miller with her husband, Alec, and their children

“Time management skills, commitment, and public speaking.” -Danita Tegethoff, Kimball, SD (Marketing Coordinator, Avera Health) Danita Tegethoff with Star, her purple ribbon breeding heifer (1990s)

“Travel! I attended trips to Washington, D.C. and Kansas City; I saw many places in the U.S. because of 4-H. I learned a lot from public speaking and judging. I also showed sheep and much more.” – Emily Robinson, Centerville, SD (Registered Nurse, Sanford Health; Emily was involved with the Centerville Superstars 4-H Club as well as the 4-H Queen her senior year.) Emily Robinson with her husband, Derrick, and their children, Ruthie, Winnie, and Graham September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

SPONSOR

Left to right: Susie Kessler, Loan Clerk and Kari Surprenant, Bank Teller

MERCHANTS STATE BANK For 120 years, Merchants State Bank has been serving customers in Turner and Hutchinson counties. The bank has locations in Freeman, Viborg, Hurley and Irene. Their original and main office is located in Freeman. On September 24-25, Merchants State Bank will be hosting an Open House at their new bank location in Viborg. Merchants has been operating in a small space in the Jones Food Center in Viborg for 20 years, but now with the new building, they’ll be able to offer a wider range of services including the addition of a drive-thru, ATM, and safe deposit boxes. 14

“This is a great move for our customers. Previously folks would have to go to other communities for something as simple as to access an ATM. Now with the new drive-thru and other services we can offer, this is a much easier banking experience for them,” explains Troy Lee, AVP and Branch Manager. “We also now offer safe deposit boxes for our customers who may need that service.” When customers come to see the new location at 201 N Main St, they will recognize many familiar faces as the staff will be the same. The biggest difference will be space and more room inside the bank. There is more room around the teller

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

counters and reception area along with larger offices for loan officers. Within the new location, there is also board room which can be used by the public for community meetings and small gatherings. Customers can contact banking staff to inquire about utilizing the space. With this location, Merchants State Bank will continue to provide a full-service banking experience in a small-town setting. Emily Hofer, CFO, shares a similar perspective to Troy Lee as she explains, “Opening this new location in Viborg is long-overdue. We’ve had steady growth in all our locations, and Viborg is no excep-

BIG BANK PRODUCTS. HOMETOWN SERVICE. Left to right: Troy Lee, AVP &amp; Branch Manager; Emily Hofer, CFO of Merchants StateBank; name to come

Commercial, Consumer & ü Farm, Residential Lending Checking, Online Banking, ü Free Bill Pay & Mobile Deposit and Environmentally ü Free Friendly E-Statement Option ü No-fee IRA Accounts ü VISA Debit & Credit Cards

Invested IN THE FUTURE OF THE COMMUNITIES WE

tion. The town has been a welcoming community to us over the last 20 years. The folks in Viborg are great, and we’re excited to offer more services to these customers. We are committed to supporting the continued growth and development of all the communities we serve with an approach that offers big bank products delivered with community bank service.” The staff at the bank welcome all customers and residents of the area to stop by and see the new location. The Open House will take place during business hours on September 24-25. Guests are welcome to stop by for light refreshments and to sign up for some great door prizes. Merchants State Bank Open House 201 N Main St, Viborg Tues, Sept. 24 – Wed, Sept 25 during business hours

FREEMAN 605-925-4222 305 S Main

serve.

HURLEY 605-238-5255 606 Center Ave

VIBORG 605-766-4255 201 103NNMain MainSt

IRENE 605-263-0170 209 Main St

Just a click away at msb-sd.com

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

Promise FOR THE FUTURE

Why have an advisor? YO U R PA R TN E R I N PA R K S TO N Having a dedicated partner in every phase of your retirement planning process can help you and your family feel confident in your financial decisions and future. We’re proud to be part of the local community and are looking forward to helping you and your family pursue your financial goals and aspirations. Call me today to get started. Tyson Bialas Financial Advisor 114 E. Main St. Parkston, SD 57366 Office: 605-928-3933 Cell: 605-770-1897 tbialas@wradvisors.com

Securities and Investment Advisory Services are offered through Waddell & Reed, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC and Federally Registered Investment Advisor. NOT FDIC/NCUA INSURED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NO BANK GUARANTEE NOT A DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY Waddell & Reed, Inc.

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

42551 (03/19)

Photos by Adam Prunty

A few weeks ago, the Humboldt Threshing Association hosted the 29th Annual Old-Fashioned Threshing Show. It was held August 8-14, 2019. Thursday evening kicked-off the events with a 25-mile scenic tractor drive and pit stop at Ron and Jackie Heemstra's barn near Wall Lake. Friday night was the Tractor Pull, which was unfortunately cut short due to rain. Then, the main show was held on Saturday and Sunday and featured Oliver tractors.

Main events included daily parades, demonstrations, wagon rides, flea market, plowing and great food under the big tent. There was also a Pork Chop supper and live music by Surfin' Safari on Saturday night. Next year, will be the 30th Anniversary of the Threshing Show so be sure to save the date.Â August 6th-9th, 2020 Humboldt, SD (3 miles South on Hwy 19) Featuring Minneapolis-Moline

Follow us on Facebook atÂ facebook.com/HumboldtThreshingShow September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

HUTCHINSON COUNTY FAMILY

THE KEPPLINGERS

Left to right: Kreg, Kerry, and Kyle Kepplinger 20

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

The Kepplinger farm on Highway 18 west of Olivet has raised sheep in Hutchinson County for many years. Kerry Kepplinger’s father and grandfather were in the sheep business as long as he can remember. Now, Kerry’s sons, Kyle and Kreg, mark the 4th generation of Kepplingers in the family business. They now do much more than raise sheep—they produce a well-known product: Kepp’s Sheep Chislic. “Our family has been raising sheep when not many others were doing it. We know this business very well and the quality of our product shows it,” explains Kerry. In the immediate areas of Turner and Hutchinson County, almost everyone is familiar with chislic and most know the difference between lamb and mutton chislic. However, this is not the case all over the state; it wasn’t until 2018 when chislic was named the “Official Nosh” of the state of South Dakota. During that legislative session, the popular region snack became better known statewide and beyond. This important milestone happened due to more than just luck. Kerry Kepplinger and others active in the chislic industry lobbied for legislators to pass this in Pierre, because they saw an opportunity to increase exposure for the product and more importantly, to open new markets for the unique South Dakota dish. “This was great for the chislic industry, and we feel other states will follow suit and name a nosh for their states as well,” says Kerry. The timing on the announcement was great because it coincided with plans that Kerry and his family had for expanding their operation to produce more product and distribute to a larger footprint. Since 2008, Kepp’s Sheep Chislic has been in area grocery stores and the product has been served in area bars and restaurants. Now that Kerry’s sons are older and able to assume a bigger role in the family business, the Kepplingers have been constructing a multi-purpose building on their

Left to right: Kreg, Kyle and Kerry Kepplinger

HEAR WHAT

DI S C OV E R

hearing wellnes s

EVERY PERSON DESERVES TO HEAR WELL.

YOU’VE

BEEN

• Free one-on-one screening

with our specialist • Free demonstration of the LIM ITED TIM E ONLY latest in smart hearing technology • For those with devices — free cleanings & evaluations • Up to $800 off a set of Advanced Digital Hearing Aids FREE ONE-ON-ONE SCREENING

MISSING

Limited time offer

UP TO $800 OFF PAIR OF ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY HEARING AIDS* FREE CLEANING & EVALUATION OF HEARING AIDS

429 W 69th St. • Sioux Falls, SD 57108

(605) 610-2886

(dial complete number to ensure connection)

siouxfallshearing.com

Melissa Baker M.A. Baker, CCC-A, M.A. FAAA CCC-A, FAAA Melissa Owner/ Clinical Audiologist Owner and Clinical Audiologist

Appointments are limited - Call (605) 610-2886 today! * Limited Time Offer September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

511244

nice to keep consistency in the family brand. The Kepplingers produce chislic for large events and festivals in the region. They also serve product themselves at the South Dakota State Fair and provide product for the Turner County Fair. “It doesn’t matter to us how our product is used. We can serve it or supply it for others,” explains Kerry. “With our expansion, this ability will only be better for the customer.” family farm site where they’ll be able to do everything from A-Z as it pertains to the business. They’ll be able to finish raising sheep on the property then slaughter and process the product, and finally, package the product. They will continue to distribute their chislic to retail sites. They are also opening a retail store in the building, where they will sell their product. Both Kerry’s sons attended Morningside University and played football. While there, they also majored in Biology, and Kreg also studied Food Science. Kreg is entering his senior year at Morningside and recently completed an internship with Wells out of Le Mars which enabled him to see first-hand how large a family

YOUR FRIEND in the Field

owned, food production business can become. The Kepplingers have a long way to go to attain that level, but the principles of family and business are similar. The growth the company has experienced since inception has been a true family effort. Everyone has played a key role, and they all chip in to help. Kerry and his boys have done as much works as possible on their own to build out their new facility while running the current business at the same time. Kerry’s wife, Kathy, and Kyle’s wife, Kelsey, help when needed and their support is important to the longterm vision of the company. The boys joke that it is not mandated that they marry a wife whose name starts with the letter “K”, but it is

The Kepplingers anticipate their new facility to be completed and up and running in mid-2020. Until then, they will continue to work together to finish the facility and to build new connections and relationships to promote their product and open new distribution channels. Once this new facility is completed, the Kepplinger family history of being leaders in their industry will continue for many years to come.

For All Your Chemical and Seed Needs Seed

Healthy Farms

Crop Protection

Climate Corporation

877-200-0349 | 605-928-3924 • Parkston, SD AdvantageAgSupply.com 22

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

Culligan 1510 W 51st Street Sioux Falls, SD 57105 605-336-2165 www.siouxfallsculligan.com

YOU TALK, WE’LL LISTEN. ONE AMERICAN BANK has been a proud supporter of agriculture and agri-business for generations. Our bankers are experienced with all types of agricultural lending programs. Whether you’re looking to acquire additional land, farm equipment, or operating credit – please give us a call or stop by. We can provide a variety of financing options and offer both fixed and variable interest rate programs.

Your Trusted AG Partner in Eastern South Dakota 549 BROADWAY ST, CENTERVILLE, SD 57014 • 605-563-2207 www.ONEAMERICANBANK.com September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

COUNTRY NEIGHBOR

THE ANDERSONS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ROOTED IN FAITH Photos by AllScapes Photography

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

Matt and Kristi Anderson live two miles west of Hartford on land Matt’s Grandpa Elwayne Berens farmed years ago. Kristi explains, “On our first date, Matt shared with me that his Grandpa Elwayne and mom have worked hard to teach him how to be a great steward of the land, and that is important to him. He works so hard to take great care of the land we farm, and that overflows into the wonderful ways he leads our family.” The Andersons are a family of strong faith and trust God’s guidance and timing. “We try to depend on God and lean on our faith in all seasons,” shares Kristi. “That is what carries us through the good and tough seasons, and it is something we are teaching our daughters, Kendall (5) and Lucy (3).” When Matt, originally from Hartford, S.D., was in middle school, he moved to Chancellor with his mother, Peggy, when she remarried. He grew up on his stepfather, Craig Hoogestraat’s, large hog farm and attended Lennox Middle and High Schools. After graduating, he earned his Automotive Technology Degree from Southeast Technical Institute then moved back to the Anderson family farm near Hartford in 2003. In addition to working full time, he independently began his journey of getting his small operation up and running. After Matt and Kristi, a Colton, S.D. native, married in December 2009, the couple continued to grow their farm, as they slowly began to farm more of the Anderson family’s acres. During the couple’s first year of marriage, they lived in the old farmhouse on the Anderson property. The house was three different parts pieced together that sat on an old boulder rock foundation. “Our home was full of many unwanted guests,” says Kristi. “I remember waking up one morning to a mouse in a chip bag on the counter. I was horrified as I nudged Matt awake. He snuck out to the kitchen and smashed it right in the bag!” “A few months later,” she continues, “I walked in the house after work, and the house smelled like death. I called my best friend and begged her to come and find the dead animal along with promising to pay her

Kendall (5) and Lucy (3)

IN YOUR TIME OF LOSS,

you can depend on us caring for your loved ones.

Serving Turner County since 1906

Hofmeister-Jones Funeral Home -Chapels in Parker, Hurley, Marion and Viborg-

297-4402 | 326-5415 hofmeisterjones.com September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

$20 on arrival. She laughingly declined the offer, and I was on my own!” Kristi recounts another incident—this time involving a snake slithering up the south side of the house. “I tried to kick it down, but it went in a hole. That night, I was washing dishes, and Matt was sitting at his desk when he very calmly said, ‘Kristi, get me a stick.’ Yep! That snake was now in my living room! Our lawn was home to many, many snakes. I made it my goal to thin out the snake population. I ran over 32 snakes with the lawn mower that summer!” The challenge of dealing with many pests in their home tested their patience, for sure. However, soon after, they began planning their new house and moved in the next year. 2017 was a big year for the Andersons. They were able to purchase 80 acres from Matt’s dad which was a great addition to the operation. However, they knew it would require more time. The family felt the need to make a major change. After

teaching elementary school for ten years in the Garretson School District, Kristi, who graduated from the University of Sioux Falls with a Degree in Elementary Education, did not renew her contract. “There were many variables that played into us making that decision,” says Kristi. “It was so hard, but Matt and I knew it was the right decision for our family.” Kristi spent the next year taking care of the girls and substitute teaching when she could in the school districts around Hartford. “I also started taking on more responsibilities regarding paperwork for the farm to help Matt.” Kristi was grateful to be able to stay at home with the girls, but she also felt a tug on her heart to teach. “I spent time specifically praying to God to lead me into the place He wanted me to go,” shares Kristi. “About nine months of diligently praying, I felt God answered that prayer by telling me to start a preschool in Colton.” In a matter of days, she had worked out all the details and students had already enrolled. “I love it, and this is the second year for Little

You have nothing to lose...but your pain.

(605) 498-5100

725 Figzel Ct, Suite 104, Tea, SD teachiropractic.com

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

Dr. Christopher Lane

Blossom’s Preschool in Colton. We meet twice a week in the mornings, and it keeps me in the world of education, which is what I’m passionate about!” In the future, she would like to start a preschool in Hartford. Matt performs most of the jobs on the farm, and Kristi says she’s the “runner”. “I’m in charge of helping get equipment to each field for the task at hand, bringing him meals and being the primary caretaker of the girls during each season. Last year, the harvest season was dragging on and on. I decided the only way to help more was to learn how to drive our combine, so he could keep the grain moving to the elevators. I woke up the day of my birthday and said, ‘It can’t be that hard!’ After a brief lesson and a few rounds, I had it down and actually enjoyed it!” Kendall and Lucy love riding along in the tractors and combine with their dad. “They are great at singing along to the radio and eating all the snacks we have packed!” shares Matt. “It’s so great for them to experience the process

of farming—from preparing the dirt, to planting the seeds. We often drive around the area to look at how the crops are growing, so they see that progress too.” The girls also enjoy seeing the wild animals that live among the fields. Kristi says harvest is especially fun for them, because they can see in bulk what the family has accomplished over the years. However, when the seasons get long, they may not see their dad as much and it can be difficult for them to understand. “I remind them that is part of living on a farm. Sometimes their dad has to put in long days to get as much done as he can,” shares Kristi. Matt says time management can be of the biggest challenges in running a farm. “I work full time in Sioux Falls for Herc-U-Lift. It is very hard to balance a full-time job, farming and still have time to give my family. Since I started farming all on my own, it can be challenging because there isn’t always someone around to help me when we need it. Besides Kristi and her dad, Rick Van Heerde, I really have to use

my time wisely in order to get everything done.” Kristi says Matt is in his element when he’s farming. “He has endless energy (as long as I bring him food) and works so hard to meet his goals for each piece of land we farm,” she adds. “Every season, he comments on how being out in the field is where he feels the presence of God closest in his life. For him, it’s about seeing and reflecting on God’s beauty and knowing the importance of what our family has been given.”

Kristi and Matt will celebrate their 11th Anniversary this December.

Your family loves the outdoors. but is the air in your home safe?

Radon is a serious health issue, but it can be minimized.

Test your home today. Correct elevated home radon levels with radon mitigation installation. Free estimates.

605-201-4704

dakotaradonmitigation.com

The US Government has designated Eastern South Dakota as an area with the highest risk zone for radioactive radon gas.

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

COUNTRY NEIGHBOR

Left to right: Jared and his father, Richard

THE HILLS Photos provided by Jared Hill

There are not many South Dakota family farms that can trace their history back to the 1860s, but the Hills family just northeast of Canton is one of them. 28

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

Richard Hill and his son Jared farm together on land that dates back to Richardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatgreat uncle and Norwegian immigrant, Simen Schiager. In 1868, Simen rode into Lincoln County with 80 others in a caravan of settlers that doubled the population of those already living in the county at the time. He acquired his first 160 acres of land for $14 and built a sod house on the north end of the property shortly thereafter. Simen lived in the Canton area until he passed away in 1932 at the age of 97.

In 1908, a barn was built on the farm, and the following year, a larger home was constructed as well. This home is where Richard’s father, Manfred, was born and is also where Richard and his wife, Linda, currently live and where they raised their three children: Nathan, Jared and Becky. The Hills have been pillars in the Canton community for years, and Manfred was well-known and loved by many prior to his passing on July 4th, 2018. “Grandpa had a way about him. He loved the Canton community, and he loved the farm he built,” explains Jared. Manfred was married to his wife, Leona, for 72 years until her passing in October of 2017. The Hill farming operation today is run by Jared and Richard, but Manfred’s impact is well entrenched in how things are done. Manfred never had any formal training as a mechanic or welder, but he was always tinkering and building things to make them work based upon the needs of the farm. “Grandpa was a dreamer, and he’d come up with ideas to build things with

Hills Family Farm today (2019)

you’re seekin Whether g a skilled, a living comm ssist unity for yo able things urself or for is a sense of a we’re numb love warmth and er one. comfort. Le tT Hills Family Farm, (1910)

Caring for the Body and Soul Whether you’re seeking a skilled, assisted, or senior living community for yourself or for a loved one, one of the most desirable things is a sense of warmth and comfort. Let Tieszen Memorial Home show you why we’re number one. SKILLED NURSING CARE

WELLNESS CENTER

MEMORY CARE

OUTPATIENT THERAPY

ASSISTED LIVING

INDEPENDENT LIVING

PRIVATE PAY • MEDICARE • MEDICAID • VA CONTRACT

605-648-3611 | Tieszenhome.com 312 E State St Marion, SD 57043 September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

Left: Sioux Falls Spectator Magazine cover that featured Richard when he was a young boy; Middle: South Dakota artist John Green’s painting The Little Fisherman; Right: Leona and Manfred Hill

old equipment or items we’d have around. He and I spent countless hours fixing things and building things in the shop together,” recalls Jared. “Grandpa was well-known for making the quote, ‘Work hard and the rest will come easy’, however, I often wonder when

the ‘easy’ part is going to start happening.” Richard and Jared mark the 5th and 6th generations to farm the ground Simen Schiager started with many years ago. Maintaining the history and family legacy is important to

the Hill family. Richard and Linda have updated their 100+ year-old home, but it still has the feel of a family farmhouse. Both Richard and Linda enjoy antiquing and collecting items to add to their home. One item of interest is a 100+ year old dining room table and chairs

JOIN US ON THE JOURNEY

YOUR PARTNER ON THE JOURNEY

BRIDGEWATER CANOVA HAWARDEN, IA HOWARD

605-729-2582 605-523-2221 712-551-1005 605-772-4561

RIVERSEDGE.BANK 30

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

MARION 605-648-3683 PARKER 605-297-3683 MEMBER FDIC

which had belonged to the family many years ago. One of the more interesting family anecdotes is that of how Richard was featured on the cover of a Sioux Falls area magazine titled The Sioux Falls Spectator in the early 1950s. Then, in the late 1970s, South Dakota artist, John Green, released a painting, The Little Fisherman, which became a quite popular print. The magazine cover featured a fun photographic image of Richard, and the way Green brought the picture to life in paint is quite impressive. Green went on to paint another portrait called The Little Fishergirl as well. Because the ground just northeast of Canton hasfarming stayed and ranching operation on the proper legal path? Farm succession planning Is your in is the same difficult,family but we make the process easier. Visit SwierLaw.com to find out how you can grow for over 150 years— and Richard and and protect your operation now and for future generations. J a re d have n o plans to Whatever slow downyour concerns are, we can help shed some light on the right plan for you. anytime soon, the Hill family will remain a valuable asset to Richard and Linda’s 100+ year-old dining room table that the community. belonged to the family years ago

• GROCERIES (605) 286-3218 • BAKERY • GROCERIES • HOUSEHOLD SUPPLIES • DELI • BAKERY • LAWN & GARDEN • GROCERIES • PRODUCE • HARDWARE • DELI • BAKERY • HEATH &• BEAUTY • PRODUCE • PAINT DELI • HOUSEHOLD • HEALTH & BEAUTY • ELECTRICAL • PRODUCE SUPPLIES• HEATH • PLUMBING & BEAUTY • LAWN &•GARDEN HOUSEHOLD • PRESCRIPTIONS SUPPLIES • HARDWARE • LAWN & GARDEN HERITAGE PHARMA • PAINT • HARDWARE • ELECTRICAL • PAINT C: 49 M:7 Y:10 B:0 • PLUMBING • ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING • PRESCRIPTIONS

YOUR

1 STOP 1 STOP SHOPPING YOUR

YOUR

1 STOP

SHOPPING CENTER SHOPPING CENTER CENTER

FREE DELIVERY FSC & ACE 605-925-4781

PHARMACY 605-925-4510

BRANDING GUID

• PRESCRIPTIONS COLOR LOGO ON WHITE BACKGROUND FREE DELIVERY FREE DELIVERY

COLOR L

FSC & ACE FSC & ACE

605-925-4781 605-925-4781 PHARMACY PHARMACY 605-925-4510 605-925-4510

freemanshoppingcenter.com • acehardware.com FreemanShoppingCenter.com • AceHardware.com • HeritagePharmacyFreeman.com freemanshoppingcenter.com • acehardware.com BLACK/WHITE LOGO ON WHITE BACKGROUND

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

BLACK/WHIT 31

A pharmacy for you.

Convenient and close to home.

Transfer your prescription today. CALL 605-297-3235 VISIT OUR PHARMACY

We’re here with the personal, professional service you want from a pharmacy. And we happen to be in your neighborhood. If you need to transfer your prescription, just call or stop in, and we can take care of the rest.

We also offer...

Free local pharmacy delivery & mail-outs Dry cleaning • UPS services Kodak photo kiosk • Gift shop Yankee candles • Flowers • Gift cards

27516 SD HWY 19, Ste 2, PARKER, SD 57053

605-297-3235

27516 SD Hwy 19, Ste 2 Parker, SD 57053 Inside Jones’ Food Center

Our publications are based on families and their stories. Our goal is to build community and connections within the Ag circles of Turner & Hutchinson Counties and surrounding areas. If you have a fun story or would like to suggest a family to feature, reach out to us at Mindy@agemedia.pub.

When your loved one wants to stay with you on the farm,

you have options for help to care for them.

America's Choice for In-home Senior Health Care Allowing your loved one to stay where they are most comfortable... their own home. • Meal Preparation • Alzheimer's/Dementia Care • Light Housekeeping • Friendly Companionship • Errands • Up to 24 Hour Care • Bathing Assistance • Respite Care for Families • Assistance with Mobility • Medication Reminders

(605) 540-4444 visitingangels.com/siouxfalls 32

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

CONNECTING SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; PRODUCTION TO A DEMANDING GLOBAL MARKET

PER UNIT TRAIN, WE SHIP: 9,130 ACRES OF LOCAL SOYBEAN PRODUCTION

2,933 ACRES OF LOCAL CORN PRODUCTION 8,400 ACRES OF LOCAL WHEAT PRODUCTION

BEARDSLEY 605-935-6791 NAPA 605-665-6272

Creating Solutions for Customer Success LEARN MORE ABOUT US AT WWW.DAKOTAPLAINSAG.COM OR REACH OUT BY PHONE TO YOUR LOCAL GRAIN BUYER.

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

FROM THE KITCHEN APPLE BUTTER Provided by Cinda Wilson

INGREDIENTS: â&#x20AC;˘ 2 quarts apples (cooked) â&#x20AC;˘ 4 cups sugar (granulated) â&#x20AC;˘ 2 T. cinnamon â&#x20AC;˘ 1/4 tsp. cloves Press cooked apples through sieve. Measure out. Add sugar and spices. Cook 15 minutes on stove at medium heat. Put in roaster at 250 degrees until right consistency. Pour into boiled jars leaving 1/4â&#x20AC;? head space. Seal. Should be a browned color.

( ) Â Â? Â Â?Â? Â

Â? Â Â? Â Â? Â

Â&#x20AC; Â Â&#x201A; Â Â&#x192; Â&#x201E; Â&#x2026; Â&#x2020; Â&#x201A; Â&#x201A; Â&#x2021; Â? Â Â&#x201A;Â&#x201A; Â&#x2020; Â? Â&#x201E; Â&#x201A; Â Â? Â Â? Â&#x2C6; Â&#x201A; Â Â Â&#x2021; Â&#x201A; Â&#x201A; Â&#x201A; Â? Â Â?

Stop by our new location! 155 W 1st St, Dimock, SD (right off HWY 37)

(605) 928-3833 | Shop online at dimockdairy.com For text alerts & promotions, text DIMOCK to 72727 34

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

Everyone has a great story... Let us tell yours. AGE is a storytelling and strategy group of skilled professionals that creates media to capture your brand or business story or family farm history.

Governor Kristi Noem has farmed and ranched in South Dakota for many years. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pictured here touring flood-damaged areas.

OUR SERVICES: POSITIONING PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO VISION & VALUES BRAND STORYTELLING SMS MARKETING

Even those with toughened hands and hearts need someone to talk to. Extreme weather conditions, machinery breakdowns, a volatile ag environment, long hours that prevent time with family, and lowered income all cause frustration. Avera is a 60-year regional leader in behavioral health services. We offer the Farm & Rural Stress Hotline for symptoms of sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, overwhelming feelings, and more. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free, confidential and available 24/7.

Call today at 1-866-679-6425. For more information, contact Garrett Gross at (515) 231-9367 or Garrett@agemedia.pub 19-BHCS-17463

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2019

TO RECE A DIGIT IVE COPY O AL F MAGAZ THIS IN EVERY E MONTH HUTCHI , TEXT N TO 7272 SON 7.

ALL THE POWER YOU NEED. With industry leading equipment from Hustler Turf, Ferris, and Husqvarna, among others, we offer a full line of outdoor power equipment to satisfy both residential and commercial users with the highest quality technical support. 2ND ST

HARTFORD

WES TERN

AVE

MICKELSON RD OPAL ST

RUDD

TAMMEN AUTO AND TIRE COFFEE CUP FUEL STOP EXIT 387 90

SIOUX FALLS

1080 Ruud Trail, Suite 1, Hartford, SD | 57033 605.528.3345 | gillespieoutdoor.com

The Farming Families Magazine | www.agemedia.pub | September 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019

Meet the

WALTNER Family

Left to right: Amy and Kevin Waltner; Daughter Libby (far right) with her husband, Dalton Miller

FAITH

FAMILY

FRIENDS

FARMING

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2019

TO RECE A DIGIT IVE COPY O AL F MAGAZ THIS EVERY M INE ON TEXT TH, TURNER TO 7272 7.

HARTFORD

WES TERN

AVE

MICKELSON RD OPAL ST

RUDD

TAMMEN AUTO AND TIRE COFFEE CUP FUEL STOP EXIT 387 90

SIOUX FALLS

1080 Ruud Trail, Suite 1, Hartford, SD | 57033 605.528.3345 | gillespieoutdoor.com

September 2019 | www.agemedia.pub | The Farming Families Magazine