PAGE 2- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014
63 first responders attend FFA chapter’s safety training VERSAILLES – On Sept. 27, the Versailles FFA conducted its seventh biannual safety training session for local firefighters and EMS at the Versailles Fire and EMS station. There were 63 firefighters and EMS providers in attendance. The participants came from North Star, Liberty Township, Osgood, Versailles, Bradford, Ansonia, Rossburg, Fort Loramie, St. Henry, Covington, and Russia. Versailles FFA would like to thank Versailles Fire and EMS Station for hosting the event and setting up the bus mock disaster. The purpose of the program was to educate Firefighters and EMS from Darke County and other nearby counties on agriculture related injuries and a new focus this year was on bus extrication. The day started with registration and a welcome from Versailles FFA President Brice Berger. Everyone was split up into six groups that rotated between different events. The 6 rotations included a bus mass casualty incident, rollover tractor scenario, anhydrous ammonia tank situation, PTO/Auger mock accident and bus extrication situation. These stations allowed for the Firefighters and EMS to get hands on experience while they learned
about how to react in different farm accidents. The rotations were facilitated by Ken Livingston, Chris Hensley, Scott Garrison, Jim Sweigant, Dave Torsell, Scott Rupp, and Steve Shupert. Versailles FFA would like to thank these facilitators for their amazing knowledge shared. In the mock bus disaster, there was a rolled over bus and FFA students got on the bus, and acted as if they had a certain affliction. Firefighters and EMS then worked together to safely get all the students off of the bus. This provided the participants with a real life situation to work. Each of the participants received eight CEU credits for their participation and a special thanks to Ken Livingston for arranging the credits. Many individuals, companies and organizations contributed to the success of this program, Versailles FFA would like to thank the following for supplying equipment that was used as
FIRST RESPONDERS continued on page 3
The tractor roll-over station gave EMS and Fire Fighters an opportunity to practice this scenario.
SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-PAGE 3
FIRST RESPONDERS continued from page 2
part of the program those include Osgood Fire Department, Versailles Fire and Rescue Department, Myers Towing, Gus’s Towing, Howell Rescue, Hill T Farms, Schoenlein-Salvage, Harvest Land Co-op Versailles, Wuebker Farms, Greenville Rescue, Mary and Mary Ann Stucke and Hoelscher Farms. Versailles FFA would like to thank Marilyn Wyler for cooking the meal and thank the program planning committee that consisted of Robert Frey, Jean Buxton and Ken Livingston. Thanks is extended to Marv of Hill T Farms for bringing the tractor and auger that was used as part of the training and spending all day at the training and assisting with equipment related to the mock bus disaster. Many Versailles FFA members participated in this activity to make it possible, Versailles FFA members that assisted were Brice Berger, Rachel Osterloh, Katerri Schmitmeyer, First responders were able to participate in a mock bus extrication situation and get real life experience in a disaster, Versailles FFA member Kari Kriner is shown as a victim.
Mikaela Buschur, Courtney Rose, Makalya Berger, Logan Schultz, Lily George, JJ Petitjean, Dane Bulcher, Cameron Keiser, Jasmine Francis, Danielle Hesson, Hannah Niekamp, Erika Grogean, Will Eversole, Jacob Wuebker, Toby George, Gavin Lawrence, Kylie Lyons, Tessa Tyo, Taylor Tyo, Lexi Fleihman, Olivia Bruening, Bri Buzard, Jake Henry, Jacob Dirksen, Cassie Parsons, Aaron Knapke, Kylie Lyons, Kari Kriner and Ben Davis. The Versailles FFA would like to thank the following organization and businesses that assisted financially to program by helping fund the free lunch that was provided to all participants as well as cost in arranging the equipment needed for the day. Versailles FFA would like to Darke County Foundation, Phelan Insurance, Tom Magoto Insurance, Nationwide Insurance: Jim Jordan and Buckeye insurance Group for their contributions to the program. Most importantly the Versailles FFA would like to thank all the EMS and firefighters that attended and for the role they play in each of their communities on a daily basis.
October is Truck Month
Save up to $10,000 on the hardest working,
0 5 1 F d r o F g n i l #1 Sel 547-3000 1-800-717-3673 www.daveknappford.com
500 Wagner Ave., Greenville Where the people are friendly and so are the prices
PAGE 4- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014
FM teams compete in soil judging PITSBURG – The Darke County FFA Soils Contest was recently held in Monroe Township on a farm owned by Kenton Arnett. The soil contest consists of a written test, Soil Survey test, and three pits to evaluate. The team, consisting of up to eight students, grades the soil pit based upon the guidelines provided on the scoring card. The team was given approximately 15 minutes at each of the three pits to determine various soil characteristics. Then based on what characteristics were found, management practice recommendations are made. The Rural Soil Judging team looked at the slope, soil texture, air and water movement, depth of topsoil and subsoil in each of the pits. Then the team members chose conservation practices to recom-
mend in order to utilize that type of ground in a farming situation correctly. Two Franklin Monroe FFA teams competed in the Darke County Soils contest where the rural teams took fourth and 10th places. There were six schools and 13 teams attending the contest. High scorers for the Franklin Monroe FFA in the Rural Soils Contest were Nolan Archer, Logan Ressler, and Erica Haxton. Those judging on the Rural Soils Team included team #1 Wyatt King, Logan Ressler, Cade McGlinch, Nolan Archer, and Chloe Casto-Clemons, and team #2 Lance Hundley, Craig Shoenleben, Erica Haxton, Sawyer Miller, and Heather Morris.
SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-PAGE 5
Versailles FFA begins fruit sale VERSAILLES – The Versailles FFA fruit sales will begin Oct. 17 and will continue through Nov. 10. The Versailles FFA will be purchasing its fruit and nuts from Florida Farm, meat and cheese from Pearl Valley Cheese and Ohio Heritage Beef, and barbeque sauce from B.D. Yummers. The chapter will be selling Ohio Red Delicious Apples, Ohio Gold Delicious Apples, Ohio Fuji Apples, Ohio Apple Mix (Red and Gold Delicious and Fuji), Navel Oranges, Tangelos, Pink Grapefruit, Mixed Fruit (Navels, Tangelos, Pink Grapefruit, and Ohio Red Delicious Apples), D’Anjou Pears, Pineapples, Chocolate Covered Pecans, Butter Toffee Peanuts, Shelled Pecan Halves, Southern Fried Skinless Peanuts, Peanut Brittle Bites, Honey Krunch Peanuts, Peanut Gift Pack, Whole
Cashews, Mixed Nuts, Chocolate Nut Gift Pack, Sweet and Smokey and Mildly Spicy Barbeque sauce all products from BD Yummers Barbeque. Another gift feature includes: 2 cans of Sweet and Smokey and 2 cans of Mildly Spicy Barbeque sauce in a gift box with Christmas wrapping. Also available is Ohio Signature Beef Summer Sausage, Country Style Beef Hickory Jerky, Ohio Signature Beef Sticks Original and Spicy, Amish Genuine Trail Bologna, Amish Colby Cheese, Amish Mild Swiss Cheese, Amish Marble Cheese, Amish Bacon Cheese, Amish Mozzarella Cheese, Amish Pepper Jack Cheese, Amish Lacey Baby Cheese, Amish Horseradish Cheese, Amish Pepperoni Cheese, Amish Jumpin Jack (marble with peppers) and a Cheese Gift Box (Bologna, and Colby, Swiss, and Marble Cheese). Red or green
decorative fruit baskets are also available and include: a can of honey roasted peanuts, grapefruit, navels oranges, tangelos, red apples and gold apples. All the fruit items are sold in full boxes, half boxes and fourth boxes. They require all orders to be pre-paid.
If you have any questions or would like to purchase any product, contact any Versailles FFA member, call the Ag Department, 526-4427, ext. 3113 and ask for Mrs. Wuebker or email dena_ wuebker@darke.k12.oh.us beginning Oct. 17 through Nov. 10.
FOR WORK OR PLAY Shoes & Boots
548-3201
C&F SHOES 130 E. Third, Greenville
TANDEM DUALS
HYDRAULIC DUMP TRAILERS
COME SEE US FOR GOOSE NECK GRAIN TRAILER YOUR TRAILER NEEDS SKID LOADER TRAILERS
8903 St. Rt. 571 • Arcanum • OH 45304
937-548-4699
PAGE 6- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014
TRANE WIN-WIN “SCRATCH-OFF” FALL PROMOTION 9/15 to 11/15/2014
Buy a complete Trane system, play our “scratch-off” game and save up to $3,000* or ask about special financing offers available.**
When you buy a Trane heating and cooling system, you get quality that’s unstoppable. 937-548-3645 Buy one this fall and select BARGA Heating, A/C & Refrig., Inc. from two winning offers.
*See your independent Trane dealer for complete program eligibility, dates, details and restrictions. Special financing offers OR trade-in allowances from $100 up to $3000 valid on qualifying systems only. All sales must be to homeowners in the United States. Void where prohibited. **Subject to credit approval. See dealer for details. Offer expires 11/15/2014.
About the Cover
Agriculture is a big part of life in Darke County and the families depicted know that from personal experience. Shown are: (Top left) Madelyn and Seth Fearon (Top right) Harley, Cole and Caden Hanes (Bottom left) Alison, Jessica, Emily, Nathan and Andy Byram (Bottom right) Back row - Angie, Skylee and Ben Miller; front row Brennan and Sadie Miller and Lily Cruze
5419 St. Rt. 49 S. Greenville, OH 45331
www.trane.com www.bargahtgac.com
4-H CLUB NEWS Versailles Busy Beavers
The September meeting of the Versailles Busy Beavers took place on Sept. 14. The meeting was called to order and the pledge of allegiance and 4-H pledge were recited. Roll call was taken with the members standing up and introducing their family members who were attending as part of the annual Parent Appreciation Dinner. Next the Secretary’s report was read and approved. The treasurer’s report was also read and approved. After dinner, Krista Fourman, guest speaker for the night, told
the club about the Trash Bash organization. She also told the club about the time it takes for various items to decompose in landfills. The birthdays for September were recognized and door prizes were given out. The health and safety tips were given. Next the club’s performance at the Great Darke County Fair was discussed. The booth received an A. The club decided they would like to possibly sponsor a trophy at the 2015 Darke County Fair. Membership pins and certificates were handed out next. National 4-H week is Oct. 5-11 this year. The Versailles Busy Bea-
vers has a display in Tom Magoto’s Insurance window. As a reminder for people who will join or rejoin the Versailles Busy Beavers in January, the club’s bylaws state that the member must attend at least eight meetings between September and September in order to be eligible to compete at the fair. At the next meeting in November the club will nominate people for officers for the upcoming year. Offices include President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Health and Safety, Recreation, and Reporter.
SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-PAGE 7
415 S. Ohio St., Greenville
937-548-1816
4-H CLUB NEWS Darke Co. Holstein
The Darke County Holstein 4-H Club met July 22 at the home of Karen Stanley. Members were reminded of the Dairy Skillathon makeup date, July 29, at the fairgrounds. Fair tickets need to be turned in by Aug. 8 to Trudy Snyder. Members need to update their ID cards for fair. Advisor Karen Stanley went over some rules of the Dairy Show. Remember, you must wear all white clothes for breeding shows and the Dairy Steers show. You can wear dark blue jeans and a white shirt. Also, you must show your own project in showmanship. Two more Market Showmanship classes were added. They will follow
the same age group as the breeding showmanship. On Aug. 13, 1:30 p.m., at the Darke County Fairgrounds, we will be putting sawdust down and putting the booth together. We need skid loaders for that day. John Bohman will bring the trailer for the float. Jerry Miller talked about the new barn and he is making bars to be able to hang fans up on the center wall. After the meeting, members worked on the float theme. The theme this year is Join 4-H, But First Take a Selfie. Members worked on cutting out letters, etc. and the Cloverbuds worked on putting a picture collage together in a picture frame.
Alexis Barhorst made a cake for members to enjoy. She decorated it with the 4-H Clover. She won at the county level with her Cake Decorating. Good luck at State Fair with your projects and also to our Dairy Exhibitors. After their hard work we enjoyed cake and fresh fruit. The meeting was adjourned. Kylie Miller, reporter --------------------------------------
Grade A Kids
On Aug. 10, 7 p.m., the Grade A Kids 4-H Club held their August meeting at the Darke County Fairgrounds in the Cattle Show Arena. Ben Clark led the Pledge of Allegiance and Em-
ily Langenkamp led the 4-H pledge. Pre-fair preparations were discussed, forms were handed out and club shirts were picked up. Cloverbuds were dismissed to take a walk around the fair grounds. Non-livestock projects were turned in to be displayed in the booth. Everyone was reminded to sign up for booth patrol which would be taking place on the Wednesday of the fair from 3-6. Everyone was encouraged to have an enjoyable fair experience. There will not be a September meeting due to Labor Day. The next meeting will be Oct. 6, 7 p.m. at the Frenchtown Church Hall. Cassie Parsons, reporter
NU-WAY BUILDERS • Feed • Propane • Grain Handling & Merchandising • Agronomy • Power Fuels
We offer the following: • Farm and Commercial Buildings • GSI and MFS Grain Bins • Shivvers Drying Systems • Fabrication Service
5294 Sebring Warner Rd. Greenville, Ohio 45331 • 937-548-4345
20 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOUR NEEDS Visit our website at
www.mercerlandmark.com Come experience the Mercer Landmark Advantage
New Weston Branch • 937-338-5741
PAGE 8- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014
BATTERIES FOR EVERYTHING! 200 S. Main St., Piqua, Ohio
937-773-3657
Cordless Telephone • Cell Phone • Camcorder • AA - AAA - C - D - 9 Volt • 2 Way Radio Coin Cell • Cars • Trucks • Farm Equipment • Golf Cart • Motorcycle Marine Deep Cycle & Starting • ATV • Wheel Chair • Emergency Power • Lawn & Garden Snow Mobile • Jet Ski • Toy Cars • Battery Chargers • Cables • Jump Start Units
Ag and Natural Resources Tax Webinar and Workshop GREENVILLE – Farmers, producers, tax preparers and anyone who wants to learn more about the potential changes in tax laws, including those that relate to Expense Deductions and Bonus Depreciation (Section 179), can participate in a day-long tax webinar and workshop Dec. 15 hosted by Ohio State University’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. The six-hour program will focus on special issues specific to farm tax returns related to agriculture and natural resources and is open to tax preparers as well as individuals who file their own farm taxes, said Larry Gearhardt, director of the Ohio State University Income Tax School Program of Ohio State University Extension. OSU Extension is the statewide out-
reach arm of the college. The program, which is an intermediate level course, will also look at what potential changes are made to the rules on expense deductions and bonus depreciation, Gearhardt said. “We’re waiting to see what Congress does with section 179 expense deductions and bonus depreciation (should this be capitalized?), which likely won’t see any movement until after the November election,” he said. “When the previous rules expired in 2013, the expense deduction went from $500,000 in 2013 to $25,000 in 2014. “We are counting on it being raised back up to a higher level this year. Likewise, in 2013, we had a bonus depreciation rule which allowed farmers to deduct 50 percent of the cost of a piece of
equipment in the year of purchase, but that also expired in 2013.” The cost for the one-day school is $125 and organizers have applied for continuing education credits for the course, Gearhardt said. More information on the workshop, including how to register, can be found at http://go.osu.edu/taxschools. Participants can contact Gearhardt at 614-292-2433 or gearhardt.5@ osu.edu for more information. Registration includes the Agricultural Tax Issues Book. The deadline to register is Dec. 1 in order to ensure participants can get the manual via mail in time for the workshop, Gearhardt said. The live webinar, which will also feature a real-time Q&A, can be viewed at several host locations statewide including the OSU Extension, Darke County
office at 603 Wagner Avenue, Greenville, Ohio and will include lunch. Participants also have the option to view the webinar from home if they aren’t able to attend a host location, he said. For those who choose not to attend the host location, a web address of the webinar will be sent to those who have registered a week in advance of the Dec. 15 presentation. Registrations made after Dec. 5 may not receive the tax manual in time for the workshop for those who plan to view it in an off-site location. For more information about OSU Extension, Darke County, visit the Darke County OSU Extension website at www. darke.osu.edu, the OSU Extension Darke County Facebook page or contact Sam Custer, at 548-5215.
SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-PAGE 9
GREENVILLE 548-2131
BRADFORD 448-2590
9-5 Daily Thurs. & Sat. 9-12
9-5 M-T-W-F & 9-Noon Thurs.
515 East Main St.
110 E. Main St.
www.littmanthomas.com
Since “1860”
• Auto • Home • Farms
4-H CLUB NEWS Versailles Busy Beavers
On Sunday, Aug. 10, 6 p.m., Club President Megan Ward called the Versailles Busy Beavers’ meeting to order. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited as well as the 4-H Pledge. Roll call was taken by Secretary Faith Wilker with 20 members, six guests, and two advisors present. Next, the minutes from July’s meeting were read by Faith Wilker and approved by the club. Treasurer Abbey Didier’s report was also read and approved. The Health and Safety tips given by Carley Timmerman were to remember to wear tennis shoes while riding a bike to avoid injuries to the
toes and to eat vitamins every day to avoid getting sick as easily. For the recreation activity at August’s meeting, the club divided into groups and wrapped one member in toilet paper. Then, the toiletpaper-wrapped ‘mummies’ raced each other. Many of the Versailles Busy Beavers participated in County Judging and several also participated at State Judging also. Macy Dirksen won an Outstanding of the Day award at State Judging for her project on veterinary science. The Versailles Busy Beavers’ booth in the Junior Fair building at the Great Darke County Fair
was decorated on Aug. 13. Members’ projects are displayed in the fair booth--including Cloverbuds-as well as any ribbons they earned. The Versailles Busy Beavers is also going to participate in the Fair Revue Reading on Wednesday, August 20th at 2 p.m. Additionally, many of the club’s members will participate in the various dates for the Fair Revue. The Fair Parade takes place on Thursday, August 21st at 10 a.m. Presentations for trophies earned by club members takes place at 9 a.m. on the same day. The demonstration at the August meeting was done by Alex Brewer.
FULLY LICENSED, FULLY INSURED FULL SERVICE RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL WELDING AND METAL FABRICATION COMPANY
He showed the camp a robot made out of Legos that he made and programmed himself. The robot had various sensors, one of which could sense distance so that the robot would not crash into anything. Cloverbuds presented their projects too. They tye-dyed handkerchiefs. Several of these will be displayed at the club’s fair booth. The next meeting of the Versailles Busy Beavers will take place at the Vet’s Club on September 14th. This will also be the club’s Parent Appreciation Dinner. All members and their families are invited for a meal and the meeting.
Metal Repair, New Fabrication or Prototypes Specialization in Aluminum & All Steel Products TIG Welding, MIG Welding & Stick Welding Portable Torch, Plasma Cutting & Other Welding Services
One of the most reputable welding fabrication shops in Darke County. Call our office at 937-467-9673 or email at brian@emerickwelding.com
Superior Quality Craftsmanship & Reasonable Rates
PAGE 10- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014
Bill Barga honored with Advisory Council Award ROSSBURG – Bill Barga, Associate for Ag Spectrum Company, was recently recognized for his exemplary achievements this past year as he received the 2014 Advisory Council Award. Advisory Council is an annual recognition event that honors individuals for their successful sales efforts and encourages further success. In order to qualify for Advisory Council, Ag Spectrum Associates must not only achieve sales growth goals, but must also demonstrate integrity in their businesses. “The business of farming is challenging and so is the business of serving those who farm,” says Eric Sherwood, Ag Spectrum’s National Sales Manager. “We are proud to have such a strong associate network that is focused on improving soil health and helping growers achieve sustainable economic returns.” “The associates who qualify for Advisory Council do so because
they are committed to doing what is right for the customer,” says Sherwood. “Bill is very deserving of this award, especially considering his long-term commitment to his customers.” The Ag Spectrum Advisory Council is held each year in September and honors outstanding Associates with a trip for two. This year, recipients traveled to Vail, Colorado, September 18-21, where they enjoyed a view of the Rocky Mountains while relaxing at The Arrabelle of Vail Square Resort and Spa. “Being recognized by Ag Spectrum and attending Advisory Council in beautiful Colorado was an amazing experience. I look forward to what the upcoming year holds for my customers,” said Barga. Bill has been with Ag Spectrum Company for 15 years serving farms in west central Ohio and eastern Indiana. Being involved in agricultural sales and service for
Your Reliable, Local Source for:
• STEEL SALES • CUSTOM FABRICATION • MILLWRIGHT SERVICES • GRAIN & FEED EQUIPMENT Proud to be locally owned & operated since 1965!
4362 US RTE 36 GREENVILLE, OH 45331
937-548-2246
nearly 35 years, Bill is no stranger to serving farmers. His customers raise a variety of crops on the Maximum Farming System, including corn, soybeans, wheat, alfalfa, green beans, tomatoes, cabbage and sweet corn. Bill also serves his customers with his vast knowledge of cover crops and choosing the right seed for their soil types. For 30 years, Ag Spectrum Company has been studying the science of crop and soil interactions in order to develop and continually deliver an integrated systems approach to farming: the Maximum Farming System. Along with this systems approach, Ag Spectrum believes in providing leadership and empowering growers to inspire progress in American agriculture. Ag Spectrum has grown to include approximately 125 representatives in 21 states and remains singularly dedicated to developing better fields, better yields, and especially, better farmers.
Bill Barga
SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-PAGE 11
Tractor Supply holding Fall 4-H Paper Clover campaign GREENVILLE – After a record-breaking 4-H Paper Clover campaign in the spring, Tractor Supply Company, in partnership with National 4-H Council, is hosting another Paper Clover campaign in October. Through Oct. 18, Tractor Supply Company and Del’s Feed and Farm Supply customers have the opportunity to purchase paper clovers for $1 or more during checkout. At the end of the campaign, 70 percent of the funds raised will benefit state and local 4-H youth development program activities, such as local camps and after-school programs, and grant scholarships for 4-H youth in the communities where Tractor Supply and Del’s stores are located. The remaining thirty percent of the total funds are donated to National 4-H Council to help connect more young people across America to high-quality 4-H youth development programs. “The Paper Clover fundraiser is a significant part of Tractor Supply Company’s support of 4-H programs throughout the 1,300 communities we serve,” said Christi Korzekwa, vice president, Marketing, Tractor Supply Company. “We are proud to be able to provide essential funding to more than 1,000 county 4-H programs. These programs make a positive impact on young people that last a lifetime. The continued success of the Tractor Supply Paper Clover fundraisers demonstrates the impor-
tance of our 4-H partnership with our customers, team members and communities.” “For many years, the fundraising event has allowed us to provide thousands of 4-H youth across the country greater access to 4-H programs,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4-H Council. “We are thrilled about our continued partnership with Tractor Supply Company as it drives the excitement of local community participation and support for 4-H programs, and therefore the success of the 4-H Paper Clover campaign.” Tractor Supply Company, the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States, raised $787,769 during the 12-day spring Paper Clover campaign. The amount broke the record for most monetary donations during the four-year collaboration, and customer donations increased 25 percent from the 2013 fall campaign. Tractor Supply has raised nearly $4 million for 4-H programs across the country through Paper Clover campaigns in just four years. For more information on Tractor Supply, access the website at www.TractorSupply.com. 4-H is a community of seven million young people around the world learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills. Learn more about 4-H at www.4-H.org.
STOP IN FOR A GREAT SELECTION The Area’s Largest Carhartt Dealer
Santa Fe Jacket
Blanket Lined Duck Coat
Check out our Stock of WOMEN’S & CHILDREN’S Carhartt!
Ron & Nita’s
132-134 S. Main St • Sidney
492-0198
www.DowntownSidney.com
Quilt Lined Coveralls Monday-Thursday 9:00-6:00 Friday 9:00-8:00 Saturday 9:00-5:00 www.ronandnita.com
PAGE 12- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014
4-H CLUB NEWS Darke Co. Beef
The Darke County Beef 4-H Club met on Sept. 21, 2014 at 5:00 pm, at the Gettysburg Park. This was the club’s annual banquet. There were many guest, 4-H members, families, and advisors in attendance. A very nice carry in dinner was served. Clover Buds, 4-H members, officers, and advisors were honored. Ralph and Ruth Scholl advisors were honored with a special plaque for there 27 years of service to the Beef club. We will miss them. Luke Brinksneader was given his Outstanding Exhibitor Feeder Calf
plaque. Carver Gostomsky made a motion to adopt a family again for Christmas through gateway and seconded by Grant Flory motion passed. Weigh in was announced for January 8, 2015 from 6-8 p.m. at Wilson’s. This is going to be the only date. The next meeting will be Nov. 4, at the Brethren’s Home Chapel at 7:30 p.m. We will be welcoming new members and the election of new officers. Theme will be Breast Cancer awareness pink. Trever Mann, reporter Providing the Very Best in Health Care for Large & Small Animals
937-526-4900 428 Greenlawn Ave. Versailles
ECO-THERM Exterminating
KILL BED BUGS WITH HEAT
SAFE-EFFECTIVE-DISCREET
+ One Day Treatment + Kills All Life Cycles + Cost Effective + Safe Computer Monitored Electric Heat + Discreet Unmarked Darke-Miami-Shelby Counties Trucks
CALL TODAY! 937-564-9216
MIAMI VALLEY ANIMAL CONTROL Nuisance Wildlife Solutions
+ Critter Capture & Removal + Exclusions + Dead Animal Removal + Damage Repair Guaranteed Work for Over 20 Years!
CALL US TOLL FREE: 800-993-5193 • miamivalleyanimalcontrol.com
Shelby Manning showed this year’s Champion Chianina Heifer in the Best of the Buckeye show at the Ohio State Fair.
Local youth has Best of the Buckeye UNION CITY – The Ohio Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) hosted the inaugural Best of the Buckeye show at the Ohio State Fair, July 23-Aug. 3. The Best of the Buckeye program, coordinated by OCA in conjunction with the Ohio Beef Expo and Ohio State Fair, had a strong show with more than 170 head of cattle nominated by youth and breeders to date. The program recognizes top Ohio bred, born and registered calves, along with the breeder and exhibitor, in each breed division at the two shows. Best of the Buckeye provides
Ohio seedstock breeders with an enhanced marketing opportunity for Ohio bred, born and registered steers and heifers, creates a source of more moderately priced show steers and heifers by providing a program with awards and prestige, and attracts new participants interested in showing at the Ohio Beef Expo and/or the Ohio State Fair. The local winner of the Ohio State Fair was: Champion Chianina Heifer – Shelby Manning, Union City; Breeder – Megan Hunt, New Madison; total premium – $300.
4-H CLUB NEWS Canine Capers
Canine Capers held their monthly meeting at the U-TURN building on Sept. 15. Pledge of Allegiance was
708 N. Main, Arcanum
692-5318
led by Gabbi F. 4-H pledge was led by Denay G. New business was that fair 2015 will be on Aug. 21-29. We also discussed that our officer nominations are due by the next meeting so that we could vote at that time. We also decided to collect food for the food pantry and we will be collecting through February to donate in February or March when the food bank has been depleted from the holidays. Advisor reports were that our Christmas party will be on Dec. 13 from 12-3 at the U-Turn building. Mercedes Geesaman, reporter
County FFA land judging contest PITSBURG – On Sept. 16, the Darke SWCD held its annual land judging contest for Darke County FFA Chapters as they prepare for the District Contest. This year’s contest was held at Kenton Arnett’s Farm off Red River West Grove Road near Pitsburg. This year 14 teams from six schools – Ansonia, Franklin Monroe, Greenville, Mississinawa Valley, Tri-Village and Versailles – participated in the event. The land judging contest consists of a rural and an urban test. Each test challenges the students to not only identify soil types, but also consider other soil characteristics when making recommendations for use of that area. The contest consisted of four stations, three soil pits and a written test. The students had 15 minutes to finish the test at each station. Upon completion of the contest, students were asked to hand in their answer keys before Darke SWCD staff would go over
SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-PAGE 13
the answers and reasoning for each station. This year, Versailles Team #1 finished with the highest team score on the rural test, followed by Tri-Village Team #1 and Versailles Team #2. The highest individual score was Dean Heitkamp from Versailles FFA. Tri-Village brought the only team to compete in the urban test this year, the team score was 1,073 out of a possible 1,398 points. The highest individual score was Ethan Deneski. “Darke SWCD would like to thank the Kenton for graciously hosting this year’s competition, George Skidmore for helping Tim Rank evaluate the soil pits, Jeff McMiller and Darke County Ditch Maintenance for digging the pits and all the schools for participating in the event. The participation and enthusiasm from the students and teachers is what makes this competition great,” said Jared Coppess, District Administrator for Darke SWCD.
4-H CLUB NEWS Grade A Kids
*All livestock entries were turned in. Non-livestock: members are to bring projects to the August meeting, review cards were picked up after the meeting. Skillathon will be July 19. Junior Fair Board Applications are due Aug. 1 to Beth Martin. County Rosettes and State Fair Delegates Presentation will be July 17 at the Moose Lodge in Greenville. The Junior Fair King and Queen Contest will be July 15, at Memorial Hall in Greenville. Demonstrations were given by Laura Wuebker, Cassie Parsons, Kyle Wuebker, Nathan Wagner, Jacob Dirksen, Alex Weiss and Katelynn Burrell-Troutwine. The next meeting will be Aug. 10, 7 p.m. in the Cattle Show Arena on the Darke County Fair Grounds. Cassie Parsons, reporter
DREW AG TRANSPORT, INC. Providing Trucking Services to the Agricultural Community for 16 Years 5378 Sebring Warner Rd., Greenville, OH
937-547-0500
FFA students analyze a soil pit during the 2014 land judging contest held in Monroe Township at Kenton Arnett’s farm.
Partners in
On July 13, The Grade A Kids 4-H Club held their summer family cookout at Ward Park. Hamburgers, hotdogs and side dishes were enjoyed by all. After the meal, the meeting was called to order by President Deanna Langenkamp. Pledges were lead by Emily Langenkamp and Evan Keller. There was no old business. Under new business the club voted to pay for members to go swimming at the pool. Committee reports were as follows: Poultry – went over rules for fair and raising money to pay for the concreting of the floor. Goats – weigh-in will take place Friday night instead of Saturday Morning. Rabbits – Rabbit tattooing July 26.
Berne Ready Mix Grand Lake Builders Supply Minster Supply Pennville Sand & Gravel Richmond Builders Supply Wayne Builders Supply Concrete & Building Materials
419-678-4841 www.sthenrytileco.com Ohio Owner/Realtor®
DOUG HARMAN
Indiana Broker/Owner
FIRST CHOICE REALTY The Right Choice
1400 Wagner Avenue, Greenville, OH 45331
Toll Free (866) 903-5464 Cell (937) 623-9959 Fax (937) 548-0103
dougharman@earthlink.net www.cbfirstchoice.com
PAGE 14- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014
Stucke, Stucke and Kremer are up for National FFA award VERSAILLES – On Aug. 8, the National FFA announced its proficiency finalist and Versailles FFA is proud to have three National FFA Proficiency finalists. Matt Stucke, 2014 graduate of Versailles High School, is a finalist for the Grain Production Award. Matt is the son of Mark and Mary Ann Stucke and has raised, managed and marketed over 148 acres of corn over the past three years. Alex Stucke, 2014 graduate of the Versailles High School, is a finalist for the Diversified Crop Production Placement Award. Alex is the son of Dave and Karen Stucke and plays a very important role with Stucke Grain Farms Inc., the family’s operation. Alex assists with all aspects of the farming operating from field preparation to planting to harvesting of corn and soybeans. Samantha Kremer, 2013 graduate of Versailles High School, was named a finalist for her work at Versailles Feedmill. Samantha assists with all aspects of the Versailles Feedmill with major emphasis with booking keeping, accounting and sales. Samantha is the daughter of Dan and Jackie Kremer. Alex, Matt and Samantha earned the opportunity to have their applications sent to the National FFA after placing first in Ohio. Versailles FFA also had several other applications that were recognized at the National
FFA Evaluation. Katie Heckman, Oil Crop Production Proficiency Award, was ranked as gold based on her efforts of raising Soybeans over the past year. Katerri Schmitmeyer received a gold rating for the Dairy Production Proficiency Award for her efforts in raising dairy bulls the past two years. Dylan Hesson received a National FFA silver ranking for the Goat Production Proficiency Award for raising breeding goats and their offspring over the past three years. Each state is allowed to submit 49 proficiency award applications for each proficiency area to the National FFA for ranking. A panel of judges at the National FFA judge the applications and name the Top 4 Proficiency finalist as well as Gold, Silver and Bronze finalist in each 49 award areas. The 15 page proficiency application they submit includes goals, plans of practices, resumes, pictures, letters of recommendations, financial records and hour documentation. Alex, Matt and Samantha will go through an interview at the National FFA Convention in late October with the final placing being announced at the 87th annual National FFA Convention. Each finalist will receive a $500 check from their sponsors along with the National FFA proficiency winner in each 49 areas will receive an additional $500.
FENCE CONTRACTING SALES & SERVICE
• Post Driving • Split Rail • Vinyl • Board Fence • High Tensile • Electric • Chain Link • Max-FlexTM • Post Driver Rental
WESTERN OHIO FENCE & SUPPLY 5410 N. County Rd. 25-A, Piqua, OH (937) 773-0215
This Grain CART designed to teach hazard with grain will be demonstrated at the first ever hearing safety and grain rescue program sponsored by Versailles FFA on Oct. 21.
Versailles FFA plans educational event VERSAILLES – Make plans to participate in Hearing Safety & Grain Rescue Educational Program on Oct. 21. The Versailles FFA invites all farmers their families and friends to the first ever Hearing Safety and Grain Bin Safety Awareness Programs within Darke County and surrounding counties. This program is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. on Oct 21 in the Versailles Schools Cafetorium. The program will start with a welcome from Versailles FFA and Versailles FFA Alumni, followed by a free barbecue pork dinner. A presentation will be given by the Farm Safety Just 4 Kids program followed by a presentation from Versailles FFA on agriculture noises and the concerns with noise. The presentation will
focus on a recent hearing grant the Versailles FFA received from Ohio Farm Bureau and Nationwide Insurance. This program will feature free items as part of the hearing presentation. The hearing presentation will be followed by a grain safety awareness presentation taught by Dave Torsell of The Ohio State University Farm Rescue Program. Dave will use the CART to teach youth and all ages about the dangers associated with grain bins. As part of the program the CART will be demonstrated. The Versailles FFA Alumni will sponsor special Halloween activities for the young children. RSVP by Oct. 17 at dena_wuebker@darke.k12.oh.us or call Dena Wuebker at 423-2369 or contact any Versailles FFA member.
Grant will help Versailles FFA VERSAILLES – The Versailles FFA recently received two grants from the Darke County Foundation. To receive these grants, the FFA had to fill out an application before they were chosen. The first grant for $1000 was sponsored through Kremer Family Farms Fund and it will go towards helping the Versailles FFA build its outdoor learn-
ing lab. The second grant for $800 is helping the FFA chapter sponsor the EMT and Firefighter Safety Program. This program will provide EMTs and firefighters with the opportunity to practice in an emergency situation. They would like to thank the Darke County Foundation for its generous support.
SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-PAGE 15
3078 Washington Road Rossburg, OH 937.337.9576
Feed Mill 1039 Zumbrum Road Union City, OH 937.968.6085
“Call today for a Corn Quote�
EBSLF!PGCG PSH
PAGE 16- AGRICULTURE IN DARKE COUNTY-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-OCTOBER 12, 2014
Hometown Cable Wireless
NEW RURAL SERVICE AREAS! “Building the Identity”
1-866-794-8696
Hometown Cable Building Building the the Identity! Identity!
DON’T WAIT, CALL TODAY!
FIRST MONTH FREE
Expect Excellent Customer Service
FIRST MONTH FREE
Basic High Speed Rural UP TO 768 kb/DOWNLOAD 512 kb/UPLOAD “Building the Identity”
*$25 installation fee. Requires a 24 month agreement. New Customers only. One coupon per household. Expires 11-14-14 Mention EB code when ordering.
High Speed Rural UP TO 2.5 Mb/DOWNLOAD 1.5Mb/UPLOAD “Building the Identity”
*$25 installation fee. Requires a 24 month agreement. New Customers only. One coupon per household. Expires 11-14-14 Mention EB code when ordering.
$ $
29 39
* 95 Month Plus tax
* 95 Month Plus tax
HTCwireless.net
SPEEDS UP TO 20 TIMES FASTER THAN DIAL-UP!