South Dakota Union Farmer - February 2013 by South Dakota Farmers Union

Volume XCVI, NO. 2

Huron, SD

February 2013

South Dakota

Union Farmer A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION PUC’s Chris Nelson Details Grain Buyer Bill

PAGE 6

SDFU Young Producers Group Meets in Black Hills

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Rep. Noem Talks Farm Bill at Black Hills Stock Show

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‘BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE’ FREE Convention

98th annual State Convention Coming to Aberdeen Feb. 15-16

Former Congresswoman Stephanie Herseth Joining Herseth Sandlin on the convention Sandlin headlines an incredible list of speakers agenda is South Dakota Secretary of Agriculture and presenters at the 98th annual South Dakota Walt Bones who will give the opening address on Farmers Union state convention Feb. 15-16, Friday of the convention at 10:15 a.m. 2013, at the Ramkota Hotel & Convention Center National Farmers Union President Roger in Aberdeen. The theme of this year’s convenJohnson will be in Aberdeen Saturday, Feb. 16, to tion is “Building for the Future.” It comes in a speak to convention attendees at 8:15 a.m. Johnyear when Farmers Union is in the process of son will give an update on the farm bill and other constructing a new state office building in Huron, issues from Washington, D.C. but SDFU President Doug Sombke says Farmers Farm marketing expert DuWayne Bosse of Union is always buidling for the future. Britton will speak Saturday afternoon about “Whether it’s our educational programs that marketing your farm for profitability. It will be build tomorrow’s leaders, or our a very informative session that rural development initiatives that will give you ideas that you can You can find the work to build our communities bring home and implement in and its leaders, Farmers Union your business immediately. for nearly a century now has Joy Smolnisky from the been ‘building for the future,’” South Dakota Budget and Policy on page 4 Sombke said. Project will give a presentation Herseth Sandlin, who served about the legislative budget proin the U.S. House of Representatives from 2004cess and how citizens can become involved. 2011, will speak Friday, Feb. 15, at approximateSouth Dakota’s State Veterinarian Dr. Dustin ly 8 p.m. See CONVENTION Page 4

CONVENTION AGENDA

Experience ‘A Night on the Prairie’ Feb. 16 How does a trip to Alaska sound? Or visiting Cancun or the Napa Valley wine country in style? Maybe a couple of pheasant hunts are more your style. Or something as simple as handmade scarves. That’s just a small sample of the trips and items you could walk away with from the 8th annual ‘A Night on the Prairie’ fundraiser extravaganza. It’s a

fundraiser to benefit the South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation and the many educational programs it supports. This year’s event is scheduled for the evening of Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, at the Ramkota Hotel & Convention Center in Aberdeen at the conclusion of the South Dakota Farmers Union’s 98th annual convention.

Registration & Meals Offered

Each individual who brings at least THREE non-perishable food items to the South Dakota Farmers Union state convention will receive FREE convention registration and FREE convention meals (excludes A Night on the Prairie fundraiser). All you have to do is bring three items and you’ll get in for free and eat for free throughout the convention. All of the donated food will go to the Aberdeen Food Pantry. Some suggested items include: - Canned & Boxed Dinners (Tuna Helper, Rice A Roni etc.) - Canned Meat (Tuna, Chicken, Beef Stew etc.) - Corn, Peas, Green Beans, Pork & Beans - Crackers - Jello & Pudding - Juice & Drink Mixes - Macaroni & Cheese - Milk (canned or powdered) - Pasta - Soup - Rice or Pasta Mixes - Cereal - Peanut Butter - Tomato Products (spaghetti sauce, canned tomoatoes) For a full list of suggested items visit our website: www.sdfu.org and click on the convention link on the homepage.

“We are looking forward to yet another fantastic evening to help raise the funds necessary to continue our mission of building our future leaders in South Dakota,” said SDFU Foundation

See FUNDRAISER Page 11

Union Farmer From the President...

United States Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack had some really harsh words for rural America not long ago. Vilsack said he’s concerned because rural America is “becoming less and less relevant.” It was tough love for those of us who live off the land and love our small towns. But, he’s right. When it comes to politcal clout and public perception, we’re losing our edge. Congress, for the first time in years, Doug Sombke failed to pass a longSDFU President term farm bill. What has long been a non-partisan issue, with farmstate lawmakers reaching across party lines to do what’s right for rural America, and urban lawmakers realizing the importance a safe and secure food supply for this country, was stalled because of politics and the fact that our representation has dwindled along with our population. People are leaving our small towns for urban areas where they think there is more “opportunity” and what they might think is a better and more prosperous life. It’s evident in South Dakota, as our cities grow, and our small towns begin to wither. Our children leave our communities in search of jobs. What can we do to reverse the trend? Can we regain what’s been lost and become “relevant” again? We have to do something. It seems like a big task, but one worth accomplishing. First of all, we need to let young people know the benefits of rural living, and help them to realize that there are great opportunities in living, working and raising a family in our small communities. We as farmers need to let our young people see the business side of farming and the great opportunity it presents. We need to help our children realize that if they don’t want to be farmers, there are countless other ways to be involved in agriculture in rural South Dakota. If they don’t know the opportunity exists, they’ll look for it elsewhere. I think technology can play a big role in rebuilding rural America. Rural broadband can help connect young people to a world of opportunity and ways to make a good living without having to live in the city. We must commit to provide even more op-

portunity in rural communities for young people to come back to. It’s inevitable that many young people will leave to get their education. Whether it’s a college, university or a tech school, they have to leave to attend a school in a bigger town. But what are we doing to help them return? Craig Schroeder, an expert on rural youth engagement who spoke at the MarketPlace business conference hosted by Farmers Union last year, said his research showed nearly half of all rural young people would like to come back to their hometown if their was an opportunity to get a good job after graduating. But when asked whether people in their community sought out their opinions on what they would like to see in their community, most said no one had engaged them. No one asked the question, “What kind of community would appeal to you and give you a reason to come home?” I think we need to engage our young people, and solicit their ideas. Another way those of us in rural South Dakota can recapture our relevancy is detailed in a measure being debated in the state Legislature. House Joint Resolution 1001 (read more details on the resolution on page 5) would create single-member House legislative districts. Right now, in most legislative districts, four candidates run in an open election for two seats in the Legislature. More often than not, if there is a large community in the district, the candidates who live in the big town get elected. What HJR 1001 would do is seek to keep municipalities whole whenever possible, basically creating a city district and a rural district. It’s estimated that at least seven more rural-resident lawmakers would’ve been elected in 2012 had this system been in place. It’s a change that rural South Dakota needs. Each of these examples show specific ways we can start “Building for the Future” in rural America. That’s the theme of this year’s Farmers Union state convention, and it is exactly what this organization was designed to do nearly a century ago. I hope you’ll join me at this year’s convention and bring your ideas on how we can ‘build for the future,’ and through your grassroots involvement in setting our policy, I’m confident that we will find ways to make rural America ‘relevant’ once again. God Bless all you do, and we’ll see you in Aberdeen!

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WWW.SDFU.ORG FOR AN ELECTRONIC VERSION

February 2013

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

Contact SDFU 888.734.8136

605.352.6761

1410 Dakota Avenue South, PO Box 1388, Huron, SD 57350 www.sdfu.org

sdfu@sdfu.org

SDFU State Office Staff

Karla Hofhenke.......ext. 114 Secretary Treasurer Huron

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

Chris Studer.............ext. 122 Communications/Marketing Huron

Garret Bischoff.......ext. 118 Membership Director Huron

Mitch Fargen...........ext. 116 Rural Development Director Sioux Falls

Angela Tarasoff......ext. 111 Membership Specialist Huron

Mike Traxinger........ext. 112 Legislative Director Claremont

Leslie Rupiper........ext. 115 Foundation Exec. Director Sioux Falls

SDFU Board of Directors Doug Sombke.........President Groton

Wayne Soren..........Vice Pres. Lake Preston Terry Sestak...........District I Tabor Jim Wahle..............District II Salem Franklin Olson.....District III Pierpont

Contact NFU

Joel Keierleber.......District IV Colome Dallis Basel..............District V Union Center Lynn Frey...............District VI Lemmon Chad Johnson.......District VII Groton

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

Roger Johnson, President ~ Claudia Svarstad, Vice President Doug Peterson, Secretary ~ Don Teske, Treasurer 202.554.1600 www.nfu.org

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Education News By Bonnie Geyer Education Director Time is flying by, but spring is not too far off and all the summer activities will be upon us soon. I’m looking forward to all the youth activities and look forward to you joining the fun! We just returned from the Two-Year Award Trip to Pierre and the annual Farmers Union Legislative Day activities. Participants attended committee hearings, observed floor action in both the House and Senate and met with lobbyists, pages and interns. The group also visited the National Guard Museum, the World War II, Vietnam and Fighting Stallions Memorials, the Pierre Aquatic Center and the Discovery Center. We had several youth participate this year, and it was such a fun and educational trip! You can learn more about it in the story to the right. Next on the agenda is your state convention. The convention is a good time for Farmers Union friends to come together, share ideas and enjoy a couple of days of fellowship. We will honor those that assist with the youth program as well as the 2012 Torchbearers. We will also award the Minnie Lovinger Esteemed Educator Award, so please plan to attend the convention and join us in celebrating and honoring these individuals. On Saturday evening, Feb. 16, will be the SDFU Foundation fundraiser “A Night on the Prairie.” This event raises money to help sponsor your education programs and we appreciate everyone’s support! We always have such a good time so come join in the fun! Feb. 14-17 is the College Conference on Cooperatives in Minneapolis. It’s funded by the CHS Foundation and gives individuals the opportunity to come together with students from other states to experience firsthand the many different types of cooperatives. With the support of the CHS Foundation, we will host a group of South Dakota young people to attend this event. We appreciate the support of the CHS Foundation with all of our cooperative education programs and look forward to future participation in projects like this. I hope you consider attending the NFU Convention in Springfield, Mass., March 2-5. Our 2012 Torchbearers will represent South Dakota at the convention as well as delegates that you elect at state convention to be your voice during policy debate. Education leaders, please think about your camp date. Camp dates are set to make time, travel and economic sense but if you have a preference we will do our best to honor those on a first come, first serve basis. Give us a call now!

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A group of Farmers Union youth traveled to Pierre for the Two-Year Award trip. Front row (left to right): Chelsie Beyl of Rosholt, Kaden Kummer of Parkston, Gabrielle Twedt of Woonsocket. Second row: Shannon Meyer of Wilmot, Dasia Tolsma of Stickney, Jeana Nuss of Tripp. Back row: Windsor Barry of Carter, Dylan Hyronimus of Worthing, and Jonathan Linke of Woonsocket.

Farmers Union Youth Travel to Pierre for Two-Year Award Trip They’ve experienced some of what the Farmers Union youth education program is all about, but a group of young people who have completed two years of Achievement Program work were treated to a trip to the Capital City the end of January. The group traveled to Pierre Jan. 29, and took part in South Dakota Farmers Union’s annual Legislative Day activities. They participated in the Legislative Day luncheon with the legislators. Over 70 people attended the luncheon, including dozens of legislators. PUC Commissioner Chris Nelson was the featured speaker. You can read more about his discussion on page 10. They also had the chance to visit caucus meet-

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ings and the general session of the Legislature. They sat in the House and Senate galleries and watched lawmakers in action. “It’s so important that our young people get to know the legislative process and understand how laws are crafted,” said SDFU Education Director Bonnie Geyer. “They have put in a lot of work and this trip is a great way to reward them while at the same time teach them about the legislative session.” Throughout the three-day trip, they also visited the National Guard Museum, the World War II, Vietnam and Fighting Stallions Memorials, the Pierre Aquatic Center and the Discovery Center.

February 2013

Union Farmer

2013 STATE CONVENTION Continued from page 1 Oedekoven will speak Saturday morning about the latest in animal care and the state’s effort to keep its livestock healthy. Convention attendees will hear an update on the Northern Beef Packers plant in Aberdeen and find out the latest on the progress that’s being made. SDFU President Doug Sombke will also give his annual address Friday morning at 11 a.m. Friday night entertainment will be provided by farm comedian Jerry Carroll, a performance you won’t want to miss.

Saturday night you have the chance to impact future generations by attending the annual “A Night on the Prairie” fundraiser benefitting the South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation. Some great items are being gathered for the live and silent auctions and you’ll have the chance to walk away with several amazing prizes for participating in the games. You can learn more about this year’s fundraiser on page 11. Tickets to the event are still available. They’re $50 per guest. Call 605-352-6761 ext. 111 to reserve your tickets today.

98th Annual State Convention Agenda Agenda is just a draft. Subject to change.

FRIDAY, FEB. 15

SATURDAY, FEB. 16

10:00am - Call to Order

7:00am - Farmers Union Industries Breakfast

10:15am - Address: Sec. Walt Bones S.D. Secretary of Ag

8:00am - Call to Order

11:00am - Address: Wayne Soren SDFU Vice President Address: Doug Sombke SDFU President

8:15am - Address: Roger Johnson NFU President 9:00am - Address: Dr. Dustin Oedekoven State Veterinarian

11:30am - Address: “SDFU in Motion”

9:45am - Beverage Break

Noon - Education Honors Luncheon

10:00am - Panel Discussion “Building Education for the Future”

1:15pm - Call to Order 1:30pm - Address: Northern Beef Packers Update 2:45pm - Beverage Break 3:00pm - 1:30pm - Address: Joy Smolnisky S.D. Budget & Policy Project 4:15pm - Credentials Committee Report Policy Program Discussion 5:30pm - Adjourn Dinner on Your Own

11:45am - Convention Banquet 1:15pm - Call to Order Introductions - SDFU Board National Convention Delegates 2:00pm - Election 2:30pm - Beverage Break 2:45pm - Address: DuWayne Bosse Marketing Your Farm for Profitability 3:45pm - Address: Climate Change

7:30pm - Call to Order

4:30pm - Convention Adjourned

7:45pm - Awards Presentation

5:00 pm - A Night on the Prairie SDFU Foundation Fundraiser

8:00pm - Address: Stephanie Herseth Sandlin 9:00pm - Entertainment Farm Comedian Jerry Carroll

February 2013

Union Farmer

Membership News By Garret Bischoff Membership Director

It’s a cold January afternoon in my office as I write this. My space heater is blowing on my feet trying to warm me up as I reflect on the past wonderful weekend with young farmers and ranchers from across the state. January 25-27, I was privileged to have hosted the first of what is hopefully going to be an annual gathering of the South Dakota Farmers Union Young Producers Group. We traveled to the Black Hills to a beautiful lodge in the Spearfish canyon for two days of educational seminars and speakers as well as networking and fun. The setting at the lodge was perfect for a relaxing weekend in the snow covered hills. We had the chance to hear about many great subjects including leadership and community involvement, grain and livestock marketing on your farm, transition planning for your family, precision agriculture and profitability, livestock development in South Dakota, and an update on the legislative session going on right now in Pierre and Farmers Union policy. We were even honored to have Secretary Walt Bones travel out west to speak to us and give us an update on the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and what is going on in Pierre in the current session. I enjoyed meeting and getting to know every single young couple that attended and hope to have more attendees at next year’s conference. I need your help finding young farmers and ranchers that may be interested in becoming part of this energetic group. Please send me any “leads” you might have of young farmers and ranchers in your area and I will hopefully get them to our conference next year to be part of this great group. If you want to know about how to become involved in this group or have any questions about membership in your district or county, please feel free to call me at 605-352-6761 extension 118 or email me at gbischoff@sdfu. org. Don’t forget that the Farmers Union state convention is coming up Feb. 15-16 in Aberdeen. Invite a friend to experience Farmers Union and make sure you come with your policy ideas. See you in Aberdeen!

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Rural Development News By Mitch Fargen Rural Development Director

One of the missions of South Dakota Farmers Union is to build our state’s future leaders. Our youth education programs do a fantastic job getting our young people prepared for a life of service and cooperation. When it comes to young adults, the South Dakota Farmers Union’s Rural Economic and Leadership (REAL) Development Program gets people who have already started their careers the training they need to take the next step and become a leader in their community. During the month of January, the second session of the REAL class met in our state capital. The Pierre session focuses on the South Dakota Legislature as well as the legislative budget, media, communications and self-improvement. We have an outstanding class of 20 members that live all across South Dakota and who have different backgrounds. This group asks a lot of great questions to the speakers and each other and they really want to get involved in their hometowns. I have also been working on the fourth annual ‘Team up to Safety’ quiz bowl event which will be held at the annual state FFA convention at Brookings. We are in the process of sending out information to high school advisors across South Dakota to get their students involved in this program and learn about farm safety. It’s an exciting Jeopardy!-style event that includes teams of four students who compete against another team of four to answer questions related to health and safety on the farm or ranch. Please encourage your local FFA members to get involved with this program in April at the FFA Convention. Last year we had 16 teams all across South Dakota who participated. The top four scoring teams will move on to compete in the quiz bowl finals held at Dakotafest in Mitchell in August. If you want to know more about any of these exciting South Dakota Farmers Union programs please contact me at mfargen@sdfu.org or at 605-695-0705.

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House Committee Hears Legislative Redistricting Measure Testimony on a proposal to create a bipartisan legislative redistricting commission and singlemember House of Representatives districts was briefly heard Wednesday, Jan. 30, by the House State Affairs Committee. House Joint Resolution 1001 would change the South Dakota Constitution, and if passed would go to a public vote in 2014. The committee delayed further action and testimony until a committee meeting Monday, Feb. 4 because of time. Currently, the state constitution allows the Legislature to draw the lines of legislative districts based on population, making each district contain roughly the same number of people. The resolution would seek to end the practice of allowing current legislators to draw their own districts and set up a commission in which individuals would be appointed by members of both political parties, equally. “South Dakota Farmers Union supports this resolution because redistricting shouldn’t be a political game,” said South Dakota Farmers Union President Doug Sombke. “Legislators shouldn’t be able to pick their voters, citizens should get a fair shot at electing their representatives.” HJR 1001 would also divide each legislative district into two parts for House races. Right now, in most legislative districts in South Dakota, four candidates run for two seats. The resolution also says “Counties and cities shall be made whole in a district whenever possible.” “This isn’t a political issue, it’s a rural issue,” said South Dakota Farmers Union President Doug Sombke. “Rural South Dakota deserves representation in the Legislature. With the continued growth in our urban areas our rural representation continues to shrink. By making municipalities whole for one House race, it will give rural residents a better chance at getting elected in the other. Plus, it will give rural South Dakotans more true representation.” South Dakota Farmers Union director Joel Keierleber, who is a farmer and rancher from the Colome area, testified on his own behalf briefly during the committee meeting.

“I would really urge the committee to support this measure and get discussion going on this subject,” Keierleber said. He talked about being able to be more closely related to his representatives when it comes to the areas they represent. Often what happens is lawmakers are elected from several counties away, and have little experience in the economic and agricultural activity happening in other parts of the district. Keierleber said if House districts were split into two, citizens would have a better chance of knowing their lawmakers. “You’re going to be able to sit down and visit with them discuss the issues and be able to relate a lot better than with someone Joel Keierleber who’s totally unrelated with your area,” he said. “Every time we sit there and wait as a Legislature for the public to do it, we kind of lose our effectiveness as a Legislature. It’s better to be proactive than always reactive.” If approved by the Legislature and South Dakota voters, the bipartisan redistricting commission would have seven members. The House majority leader, the House minority leader, the Senate majority leader, and the Senate minority leader would each appoint one person to the commission. Those appointees would jointly select three other state citizens, none of which would be able to be a current state legislator. More testimony will be heard by the House State Affairs Committee Monday, Feb. 4. The committee meets at 7:45 a.m.

NEW MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS!

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Visit www.NFU.org for more information Even more new benefits will be added soon. Check the website often for updates.

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February 2013

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PUC’s Nelson Details Grain Buyers Legislation Proposed measure is in response to the closure of Anderson Seed Company in Redfield Farmers who sell to grain buyers and grain warehouses will be better protected under a measure being debated in the Legislature this year. That’s according to Public Utilities Commission Vice Chairman Chris Nelson who spoke about House Bill 1017 Tuesday, Jan. 29, during the South Dakota Farmers Union’s annual Legislative Day in Pierre. The bill is in response to the financial failure of Anderson Seed Company’s plant in Redfield that never paid for millions of dollars in grain it stored at its warehouse. Commissioner Nelson spoke to a crowd of about 70 people which included South Dakota Farmers Union members and a large group of legislators. “The one thing that I really want to stress every time I talk about this is the fact that we don’t have a broken grain buyer system in South Dakota,” Nelson said. “In 2012, 99.96135 percent of the $7.5 billion worth of grain that was sold in this state was paid for, with one exception, and that was Anderson Seed in Redfield, and unfortunately that ended up taking some folks for a whole lot more money than should’ve ever happened.” Anderson Seed Company owes an estimated $2.6 million to producers after they delivered grain to the Redfield plant but never got paid. The plant is now closed. “In the wake of that we took a look at, what can we change in our state law to give the PUC the tools that we think we need to find those kind of problems much sooner than we were able to with Anderson Seed.”

In a free market system, companies are going to go broke, Nelson said. But the key is finding the problems quickly so they don’t escalate to the Anderson Seed level and cost producers millions of dollars. “One of the biggest issues we had with Anderson was that our current state law requires at the time of licensing of a grain buyer, that they give us their last audited financial statement from their last fiscal year end,” Nelson said. “In the case of Anderson, that South Dakota Public Utilities Commission Vice Chairman Chris Nelson speaks to Farmers statement was nine months Union members and legislators during the SDFU Legislative Day in Pierre. old. This legislation will require not only that audited statement, but also not nearly enough to cover the $2.6 million that current financial information when they come was lost. Nelson says the PUC hasn’t increased in for re-licensing so that we know exactly what the bond requirement substantially, but he says the situation is with that particular grain buyer or “we’ve right-sized it, we think, for the amount of warehouse.” business grain buyers are doing.” The legislation would also make sure the comIt would set bonding requirements on a scale. pany is telling the truth and not hiding anything in The more grain the company buys, the more their financial statements and would be subject to they have to be bonded for. If they buy over $85 perjury charges if they’re not telling the truth. million in grain, the bond would be as high as “If they’re going to lie to you and me and the $500,000. public there’s going to be some consequences to The legislation also creates what Nelson called that,” Nelson said. a “Self-reporting mechanism.” If a grain buyer The PUC legislation also deals with the level or warehouse hits financial troubles, they have to of bond requirement for grain buyers. AnderSee PUC GRAIN BILL Page 13 son Seed Company was bonded for $100,000,

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February 2013

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Wind Energy Incentives Bill Introduced in Senate

Measure would give tax rebates for wind development in S.D. A bill which would provide state incentives for wind energy expansion has been introduced in the South Dakota Senate. Senate Bill 195 would provide a 100 percent refund of the Contractor’s Excise Tax (2 percent tax on construction projects) and it would also give a 25 percent refund of the state sales tax to companies which build wind farms in South Dakota. According to the South Dakota Wind Energy Association (which SDFU is a founding member of) this bill would accomplish two goals: 1. It reduces the tax burden on wind projects. 2. It shifts much of the remaining tax burden from an up front cost (which must be financed) to a production tax which can be paid from operating

revenues because, they say, roughly 40 percent of the refun would be recaptured during wind project operation through an increase in the wind energy production tax. The language of the original bill would refund the taxes “only on project costs incurred and paid after January 1, 2013, up to and including thirty-six months from the construction date.” The SDWEA says it will help South Dakota become more competitive with other states.

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House Committee Denies Increase to Per-Student Allocation for Schools The House State Affairs Committee has denied a bill that would have increased the per-student allocation to the state’s public school districts to get them back to the level they should’ve been at according to state law. The funding formula calls for increases in state aid to schools at three percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is less. But budget cuts made in the past two years have put per-student allocation at a level below what they were in 2009. Rep. Julie Bartling, D-Gregory, was the prime sponsor of House Bill 1201. Bartling argued that state aid to school districts has crippled budgets across the state, leading to teacher and staff layoffs and larger class sizes.

Several proponents who testified on the bill pointed to some of the same issues, that class sizes are increasing and staff had been laid off after the Legislature cut over eight percent from schools two years ago. But a representative from the South Dakota Bureau of Finance and Management said that the state’s economy still hasn’t fully recovered from the recession, and tax revenues remain unsteady and unpredictable going forward. The bureau said this bill would cost approximately $22 million. The measure was defeated on a party-line vote. All four Democrats on the committee supported the bill, and all nine Republicans voted to kill the measure.

Senate Passes Bill to Build 4-H Exhibit Hall at State Fair The South Dakota state Senate has passed a bill which would appropriate $4 million to build a 4-H exhibit hall on or near the State Fairgrounds in Huron. Senate Bill 18 was introduced on behalf of the South Dakota Department of Agriculture, the agency that oversees the South Dakota State Fair. The Senate Appropriations Committee passed the bill unanimously Jan. 24 on a 9-0 vote. The full Senate then gave its approval on a vote of

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32-1 on Jan. 28. The bill would allow the Department of Agriculture to build the building “on the State Fairgrounds or in the immediate vicinty.” The bill also includes language that would require the Bureau of Administration to supervise the design, renovation and construction of the facilities. The bill was referred to the House Appropriations Committee for more testimony. No hearing date has been scheduled.

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February 2013

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Rep. Kristi Noem Talks Farm Bill at Stock Show

Farm bill update event hosted by South Dakota Farmers Union, South Dakota Stockgrowers Assoc. Livestock disaster and other vital programs Dakota producers because of severe drought. last summer. Shortly after, the House Agriculture for South Dakota agricultural producers are “Throughout 2012 when our dams were runCommittee, which Noem is a member of, passed in jeopardy because of the lack of a long-term ning dry and our cattle were dying off with toxic its version of the bill. Both included the livestock farm bill. That’s according to South Dakota Rep. water and feed costs were going through the roof, disaster protections. “The problem was that that Kristi Noem who spoke to a crowd of about 100 we didn’t have any livestock disaster programs,” bill never became law,” Noem said. The legislapeople Saturday, Jan. 26, at tion was stalled in the House, the Rapid City Civic Center and was never allowed to come during the annual Black Hills up for a vote. Stock Show and Rodeo. The Noem said the livestock event was hosted by South disaster programs were included Dakota Farmers Union and in the farm bill extension, which the South Dakota Stockgrowshe said shows that lawmakers Association. The space ers “recognized that we needed was donated by the Sutton disaster programs for livestock.” Rodeo Company. But, Noem said, the programs Rather than the standard included in the extension don’t five-year farm bill, Congress include any mandatory funding. passed an extension of the “When the (fiscal cliff) bill 2008 farm-support legislation came out of the Senate they as part of the “fiscal cliff” authorized (livestock disaster deal early in 2013. programs), but they didn’t put “It’s a short-term extenany money into it,” Noem said. sion and it didn’t have any “You know as well as I do that of the reforms in it that we doesn’t do us any good. One of needed and that we worked the challenges is even though so hard on in committee,” we’ve got an extension in place Rep. Kristi Noem, R-S.D., discusses the farm bill during the Black Hills Stock Show Jan. 26 in Rapid City. Noem said. “It was the curand we know what we’re dorent farm bill extended for ing on the commodity side, and one more year while we hopefully come up with a Noem said. “I talked a lot in Congress and we know that we’ve got crop insurance, for our new farm bill that works better for South Dakoworked very hard to get those programs put into ranchers out there, they still need the funding to tans.” the new five-year bill that we were working on, make sure that those disaster programs are really Livestock disaster programs expired a year and trying to reauthorize, but also retroactively going to bring the relief that we need.” before the 2008 farm bill’s expiration last Sepcover 2012.” tember, which was particularly stressful for South The Senate passed its version of the farm bill See NOEM FARM BILL Page 12

Cronin, Sutton Receive SDFU Legislative Award Sen. Billie Sutton and Rep. Justin Cronin are the 2012 recipients of the Outstanding Legislative Leader awards from the South Dakota Farmers Union. The two legislators were presented the awards Tuesday, Jan. 29, in Pierre during the family farm organization’s annual Legislative Day. Rep. Cronin, a business owner from Gettysburg, represents District 23 which is made up of Campbell, Edmunds, Faulk, Hand, McPherson, Potter, Spink and Rep. Justin Cronin Walworth counties. The second-term Republican is the assistant majority leader in the House for the 2013 session. He is a member of the House Commerce and Energy,

February 2013

Government Operations and Audit and State Affairs committees. “It’s been a pleasure to work with Rep. Cronin on issues that affect the agriculture industry in South Dakota,” S.D. Farmers Union President Doug Sombke said. “He’s an approachable lawmaker that is willing to listen to ideas about how to enhance the lives of his rural constituents.” Sen. Sutton is a Democrat from Burke. He’s in his second term Sen. Billie Sutton in the South Dakota Senate serving District 21, which includes Bon Homme, Charles Mix, Gregory and Tripp counties. He currently serves as the assistant minority leader in

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the Senate and sits on the Senate Appropriations Committee. Outside of the legislative session he works as a financial consultant and rancher. “Sen. Sutton is a great advocate for agricultural producers across the state,” Sombke said. “He’s a working rancher and brings a wealth of ag-production knowledge to the Legislature. We look forward to working with him throughout the session on issues important to family farmers and ranchers in South Dakota.” Each year, South Dakota Farmers Union honors two legislators who have shown exemplary work in the previous legislative session on behalf of the state’s family farmers and ranchers. The 2011 recipients were Sen. Shantel Krebs, R-Renner, and former Rep. Mitch Fargen, DFlandreau.

www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer Members Attend Legislative Day at Pierre

With snow and ice in the morning, it was difficult to predict just how many Farmers Union members would be able to make it to Pierre for the annual Legislative Day at the state Capitol Tuesday, Jan. 29. Although the road conditions left some members at home, Farmers Union had a nice contingent of youth and adult members attend the event. The day started with committee meetings, as members took in the testimony from the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, the House Transportation Committee and others. The annual luncheon with the legislators was held at noon at the South Dakota Education Association building near the Capitol. The SDEA was kind enough to allow Farmers Union to hold its luncheon in their auditorium, and well over 70 people, including dozens of legislators, attended the luncheon. PUC Vice Chairman Chris Nelson was the featured speaker and discussed legislation the commission has introduced dealing with grain buyers in the wake of the Anderson Seed Company’s insolvency last year. You can read more about Nelson’s discussion on Page 6. Legislative awards were also given out. Read about that on page 8. After lunch, it was back to the Capitol for caucus meetings and then the general session of the Legislature. “We had a fantastic day, and I’m grateful for everyone who made the trip to Pierre,” said SDFU Legislative Director Mike Traxinger. “It shows the commitment they have to our legislative activities in Pierre, and it was beneficial for lawmakers to interact with our members and have the opportunity to get to know them. It was also a good chance for our members to talk about the issues that are important to them and their operations with their elected officials.” State Education Director Bonnie Geyer and

Pictured are, front row, SDFU Legislative Director Mike Traxinger, Angela Kroska of Foley, Minn., Bridgette Nemec of Holabird, SDFU Membership Director Garret Bischoff, board members Franklin Olson of Pierpont and Lynn Frey of Lemmon, Greg Pesall of Webster. Second Row: Heather Kuecker of Ramona, Mason Farber of Britton, Chana Gottsleben of Philip, Zack Vos of Clark, Dasia Tolsma of Stickney, Jeana Nuss of Tripp, board member Joel Keierleber of Colome, and SDFU Education Director Bonnie Geyer. Back row: Kaden Kummer of Parkston, Windsor Barry of Carter, Jonathan Linke of Woonsocket, Garielle Twedt of Woonsocket, Dylan Hyronimus of Worthing, Chelsie Beyl of Rosholt and Shannon Meyer of Wilmot.

District III Education Director Heather Kuecker led a group of young people who were on their Two-Year Award trip to the Capitol. You can read more about their trip to the Capital City on page 3 of this issue. Members of the South Dakota State University Farmers Union collegiate chapter (pictured below) made the trip to Pierre to take in a portion of the session.

Rep. Peggy Gibson of Huron (center) poses with SDFU board member Dallis Basel and his wife Tammy during the legislative luncheon. Gibson is also a S.D. Farmers Union member.

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5-20% Off Merchandise! 10% Off Gift Cards! Farmers Union member Greg Pesall (right) of Webster talks with Rep. Dennis Feickert of Aberdeen during South Dakota Farmers Union Day. Rep. Feickert, an Aberdeen-area farmer, is a member of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. He’s also a South Dakota Farmers Union member.

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Members of South Dakota Farmers Union’s collegiate chapter at South Dakota State University attended Legislative Day. From left are Mason Farber of Britton, Chana Gottsleben of Philip, Bridgette Nemec of Holabird, Zack Vos of Clark, and Angela Kroska of Foley, Minn.

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Call Angela at 605-352-6761 ext. 111 for your customer number and order over the phone for great discounts!

February 2013

Union Farmer Legislative News By Mike Traxinger Legislative Director

The 88th legislative session is well under way and SDFU has been working hard on your behalf. SDFU has worked with legislators to introduce one bill, one joint resolution, and one concurrent resolution this year along with tracking dozens of bills and resolutions important to you, our members. Rep. Dennis Feickert, D-Aberdeen, and Sen. Larry Lucas, D-Mission, are the prime sponsors of House Bill 1228. It was introduced in response to the insolvency of Anderson Seed Company’s Redfield location in February of 2012. Since that time, over $2 million dollars in claims have been made on the $100,000 bond, with interest. A $100,000 bond is required for grain buyers under current state law. Since Anderson Seed went involvent, 29 claimants have sought money from the bond. Of those claimants, 22 were producers, one was a colony, one was a dairy, and the remaining five were nonproducers. These five non-producers requested 40 percent of the money in the bond. HB 1228 is a bill that would put the producer first in line to receive bond payment funds from a grain buyer or a grain warehouse and the non-producers next in line. Rep. Peggy Gibson, D-Huron, and Sen. Chuck Welke, D-Warner, have introduced a House Joint Resolution, HJR 1001, which would establish a bipartisan redistricting commission and single-member House districts. HJR 1001 would have to pass both chambers of the Legislature, be signed by the governor, and then be supported by the voters in 2014. For SDFU, this is a rural issue. Without singlemember house districts, South Dakota continues to lose rural representation in the Legislature. It is estimated that at least seven new rural legislators would be elected if HJR 1001 were adopted. You can read more about this issue on page 5. Sen. Lucas and Rep. Charles Hoffman, R-Eureka, will soon introduce a Senate Concurrent Resolution that would encourage the United States Congress to pass a multi-year farm bill. This issue is at the forefront of our members and of high concern. If you haven’t been receiving The Rural Lobbyist, a weekly email update sent each Friday during the session, please email me at mtraxinger@sdfu.org to be added to the list. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have questions, comments, or wish to testify during the legislative session. I can be reached at 605-377-4110.

February 2013

By NFU President Roger Johnson

Greetings from Washington! The National Farmers Union office is once again bustling with activity in preparation for our upcoming convention. If you haven’t already done so, please make your arrangements to travel to Springfield, Mass., for the convention to be held March 2-5. The Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place has been designated as the 2013 NFU Convention hotel, and reservations need to be made by Feb. 7 in order to guarantee that you will get the Farmers Union discounted rate. For information on hotel reservations, convention registration and the tentative convention schedule, please visit www.nfu. org/convention. Farm Bill Update On Jan. 1, Congress hastily passed H.R. 8, the Tax Relief Extension Act, commonly referred to as the fiscal cliff bill, which included a ninemonth farm bill extension. Unfortunately, the extension only extends certain portions of the 2008 Farm Bill until Sept. 30, 2013. The legislation that passed fails to provide essential disaster aid for farmers yet continues unjustifiable direct payments. The bill also does not provide mandatory funding for the energy title, specialty crops and organic provisions, or new important programs for beginning farmers and ranchers. Once again, Congress has left rural America out in the cold. An extension represents a shortsighted, temporary fix that ultimately provides inadequate solutions that will leave our farmers and ranchers crippled by uncertainty. The extension that was finally included in the fiscal cliff bill was not the version drafted by the chairs of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees, but one that was developed by Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., without input from agriculture leaders. Farmers, ranchers, rural communities and all Americans deserve better and would have been better served with a new five-year farm bill. It is truly a shame that the bipartisan work of both the Senate and House Agriculture Committees has been summarily and entirely discarded. Not only was that work far better than what has passed, it also provided meaningful deficit reduction. For an analysis of the provisions included in the act prepared by the NFU Government Relations department, please visit www.NFU.org/ blog/?p=620.

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Policy Committee Meets The NFU Policy Committee met in Washington, D.C., Jan. 14-17 to begin revising our policy manual. This year’s committee is comprised of Jeff Eschmeyer of Ohio (chairman), George Davis of California, Tom Wingfield of Colorado (representing Rocky Mountain Farmers Union), Daniel Truelove of Illinois, Mary Howell of Kansas, Tim Velde of Minnesota, Ronda Throener of North Dakota, and Kent McAninch of Oklahoma. The committee members are all outstanding leaders in their state/regional Farmers Union divisions and were nominated by their state’s president to serve on the committee. The Policy Committee members play a vital role in carrying on the tradition of grassroots policy formation in our organization. The committee is tasked with reviewing our current policies and offering changes and additions for the delegates to vote on at our upcoming convention. Farmers Union Benefits Did you know that as an NFU member, you have access to a score of benefits, including discounts on hotels, office supplies, prescriptions and even pet insurance? Good News! Farmers Union members can save between 20 and 25 percent off of their next car rental from Avis and Budget Car Rental. For a complete list of benefits visit NFU.org/ membership/member-benefits. NFU Staff Changes NFU is pleased to announce the addition of David Thews to its staff in the role of executive assistant. David’s previous experience includes working at a local Washington, D.C., community health center for the past four years. A native Minnesotan, David earned his B.A. in Social Work from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn., in 2006. Interns Join NFU Team The NFU office welcomed two interns to its ranks in January. Amy Lesperance comes to NFU after earning a B.A. in Political Science from Asbury University in Wilmore, Ky. and a M.A. in Diplomacy and International Commerce with an emphasis in Agriculture Economics from the University of Kentucky’s Patterson School in Lexington, Ky. Winter Park, Fla. Anya Gandy returns to NFU for her second internship with the organization. She is a student at Antioch College in rural Ohio with a double major in International Agriculture and Rural Development and Agricultural Science. She’s from Talent, Ore.

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FUNDRAISER: Jon Crane to be Event’s Featured Artist Continued from Page 1

commissioned original painting will be unveiled the night of the event. Gene Hammond of Brandon will return as this year’s master of ceremonies for A Night on the Prairie. Ben Meyer of Huron will again be the auctioneer. “With all of the fun and excitement, the games and prizes, we always remember that the evening is about the impact Farmers Union education programs have on the next generation of leaders,” Rupiper Morrow said. “Farmers Union’s triangle is based upon educating our young people, and our mission remains the same nearly a century after the organization was founded. We never lose sight of that and are incredibly excited to experi-

Executive Director Leslie Rupiper Morrow. The doors will open at 5 p.m. sharp on Saturday evening and guests will have the chance to play some really exciting games when they walk through the door. “We’ve gathered some great items that our guests will have a shot at winning this year,” Rupiper Morrow said. “We have things for the ‘techies’ like an iPad, a Kindle Fire, a flat-screen television, and a blu-ray player. But we also have three custom engraved shotguns for our hunters, some unique trips and a host of prizes from a cordless drill to a flatware set. We think we’ve got one of the best list of game prizes we’ve ever had and we’re really excited for our guests to have a chance to win them.” Once again the fundraiser will feature a chance at a dream vacation. This year the options are an Alaskan cruise, a trip to Cancun, or a vacation to the San Francisco Bay area to stay and tour the Napa Valley wine country. There will be 13 people who end up having a shot at this year’s vacation. The evening will feature the games, a banquet dinner and live and silent auctions. Everyone who attends will have the chance to go home with something amazing. Gene Hammond returns this year to again host A Night on the Prairie. The live auction will feature pheasant hunts, a wine expedition to Washingence another ‘Night on the Prairie’ for such a ton state, a smart TV, a Tony Oliva autographed picture, a diamond pendant and much more. We’ll worthy cause.” Tickets are still available for ‘A Night on the even have a cattle mineral feeder up for auction. Prairie.’ Call Angela at 605-352-6761 ext. 111 or The featured artist for 2013 is Black Hills painter Jon Crane who resides in Mystic. His wa- email her at atarasoff@sdfu.org to reserve your tickets. They will also be available throughout the ter-color painting will be auctioned off as one of the main items during the event. The Foundation- Farmers Union convention.

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Foundation News By Leslie Rupiper Morrow SDFU Foundation Executive Director

Greetings from the South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation! If you ask people what’s their favorite month of the year, you might hear June, because it means warm, summer weather, or maybe December, because of Christmas. For most folks, January and February do not rank as the best months of the year. After all, here in South Dakota they usually mean cold temperatures, snow, ice or a combination of all three. But there’s something about the first two months of the year that’s often over-looked. At no other time do you get the feeling of a fresh start like you do in January and February. For some reason, every drawer, cupboard and closet in my house seems like it needs a revamp. I guess it’s the beginning of a new year that makes me feel like it’s time to reassess, clean out and reorganize. It’s also an exciting time for the Farmers Union Foundation. I believe this year will bring with it an opportunity for new businesses and organizations to learn about Farmers Union education programs and partner with us as we help these programs grow. State Education Director Bonnie Geyer is putting the finishing touches on a new curriculum for this year’s camping program. It’s always neat to see how this program comes together in a way that will inspire children and help them grow into South Dakota’s next generation of leaders. Of course, we will kick-start the 2013 education programs with the “A Night on the Prairie” fundraiser that will be held on Feb. 16 at the Ramkota Hotel & Convention Center in Aberdeen. A big thank you goes out to those who have already secured sponsorships and donation items for this year’s event. There’s still time to donate. If you’d like to be a part of our signature fundraiser call me at (605) 940-9070 or email me at lrupiper@sdfu.org. We have some very special items hitting the auction block this year, including a great stay at a luxurious golf resort, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take home some of Sen. George McGovern’s prized possessions from the campaign trail. We certainly hope you’ll join us for “A Night on the Prairie.” Until then, I hope your February is filled with many fresh starts and new opportunities. After all, the snow and cold can’t last forever. When the last of the ice melts, you could already be feeling the warmth that comes with making positive change that can last the whole year.

February 2013

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South Dakota State Fair Recognized for Excellence The South Dakota State Fair was a 2012 recipient of two International Association of Fairs and Expos (IAFE) awards. In the category for “Advertising Specialties/ Merchandise/Souvenirs,” the State Fair tied for second place with the Red River Valley Fair of North Dakota. The South Dakota State Fair also earned second place for the “Best Individual Social Media Idea or Effort,” a creative social campaign featuring a T-shirt giveaway that required participation both online and offline. “We have a lot of fun coming up with new promotions for Facebook and Twitter, so it’s really an honor to know that some of them stand out,” said Candi Hettinger, State Fair marketing coordinator. “A huge thank you goes out to our followers in social media land. They really helped us earn this award.” The IAFE Annual Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas, Nev., draws attendees from state and provincial fairs, shows, exhibitions and expositions across the U.S. and Canada. It serves

as a prime occasion for recognizing the successes of IAFE members. The recognition received by the State Fair in Huron was based on the fair’s ability to stand out from similar fairs and expos in the same division. In IAFE’s Division 2, the South Dakota State Fair was joined by event leaders with similar attendance statistics, such as the Antelope Valley Fair in California, the Walworth County Fair in Wisconsin and the Eastern Idaho State Fair. The 2013 South Dakota State Fair is scheduled for Aug. 29th through Sept. 2. For the sixth year in a row, the State Fair has

NOEM FARM BILL: Estate Tax Exemption to $5 million

increased visitor numbers to 192,790 people, up one percent from 2011. For more information, call the State Fair at (800) 529-0900, visit their website at http://www.sdstatefair.com/ or follow them on Facebook or Twitter.

Construction Update

Continued from Page 8

Noem says her priority is to let other lawmaktive Director Mike Traxinger. “We’re focused on ers in Washington know that disaster programs getting a five-year farm bill passed as soon as we are vital to South Dakota farmers and ranchers can and we look forward to continuing to work because of the state’s with the congressextreme weather conwoman on the issues ditions. that are so important to “We have South Dakota agriculdroughts, sometimes tural producers.” we get a lot of snow Noem also disand a lot of cold cussed estate tax weather that can wipe changes that were out a calf crop pretty made permanent by the quick and those disasfiscal cliff deal. The ter programs protect estate tax was set to us through those hard include only a $1 milyears and that’s why lion exemption and tax it’s so important that any estate above that we not only get them at 55 percent. The bill authorized but we get raised the exemption to them funded,” she $5 million at a tax rate said. of 40 percent and made Rep. Krisit Noem talks with a South Dakota rancher Jan. 26 after “We’re grateful it permanent. Rep. her discussion about the farm bill and other federal issues during the for Rep. Noem’s Noem also touched on Black Hills Stock Show and Rodeo in Rapid City. work on the House federal spending, the Agriculture Comstrides the government mittee in trying to get livestock disaster programs has made with international trade agreements and and other supports included in a long-term farm other issues during the hour-long meeting. bill,” said South Dakota Farmers Union Legisla-

February 2013

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Taking advantage of little snow and a few days with above-normal temperatures, construction crews working on the new South Dakota Farmers Union state office building in Huron are making great progress. All of the exterior walls are up and much of the concrete work is finished. At the end of January crews began putting up the building’s rafters and began installing plywood to build the roof. The 8,400 square foot building is expected to be completed sometime in the spring.

See the construction process

LIVE ON THE WEB! www.SDFU.org

On the right hand side of the home page you’ll see the livestream of the construction!

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The South Dakota Farmers Union hosted at Young Prodcuers Group retreat in the Black Hills Jan. 25-26. The attendees posed for a picture with S.D. Secretary of Agriculture Walt Bones. Pictured, from left, are SDFU Legislative Director Mike Traxinger of Claremont, Samantha and Nathan Miller of Houghton, Shilo and Ryan Lamont of Union Center, Mike Peskey of Iroquois, B.J. Richter of Britton, Jeremy and Lisa Kippley of Aberdeen, Lori Peskey of Iroquois, Secretary Bones, Brock Olson of Claremont, Jill Bischoff of Huron, Lacy Olson of Claremont, Michelle Johnson of Groton, Heather and Matt Harnisch of Parkston, SDFU board member Chad Johnson of Groton, and SDFU President Doug Sombke of Groton.

Farmers Union Young Producers Group Meets in Black Hills

“Inspriational and educational,” that’s how Jeremy Kippley described his time at the South Dakota Farmers Union Young Producers Group retreat Jan. 25-27 in the Black Hills. Over a dozen people attended the event, hosted at Spearfish Canyon Resort. The group, made up of young producers and Farmers Union members involved in businesses tied to agriculture met for a long weekend of networking, speakers and fun. “The average age of a farmer is nearing 60 years old, and with high land prices and the cost of production going up it’s difficult for younger producers to get started in the business,” said SDFU Membership Director Garret Bischoff. “Farmers Union is taking a proactive approach to connect younger producers in an effort to keep

them involved in the agriculture industry and give them some training to help them be more profitable and more successful farmers.” The Young Producers Group heard from Malcom Chapman, a professional speaker from Rapid City, who talked about community service and stepping up to make a difference in your hometown. “Malcom was fantastic, and all of the young producers really enjoyed his session,” Bischoff said. “He talked about how young people need to step up and make a difference and the importance of taking care of yourself.” SDFU President Doug Sombke traveled west to speak to the group. Sombke was himself involved in a young producers group years ago

with Farmers Union which helped him learn the benefits of being involved in the organization, eventually taking over as president in 2005. A farm transition session was also held, along with a legislative update from SDFU Legislative Director Mike Traxinger who detailed some of the bills introduced in the current legislative session. Dr. Gregg Carlson from South Dakota State University discussed precision agriculture and DuWayne Bosse of Britton talked to the group about the best agriculture marketing practices. Sarah Caslin and Ty Eschenbaum from the S.D. Department of Agriculture spoke about livestock development, and Secretary of Agriculture Walt Bones also addressed the group.

PUC GRAIN BILL: Measure Would Require More Transparency from Companies Buying Grain Continued from Page 6

notify the PUC immediately. “They can’t hide it,” Nelson said. The PUC will investigate and determine whether or not the grain buyer should be shut down immediately, or find out if they are simply going through a temporary rough spot, and have a plan to get out of financial trouble. If there’s not a big risk of farmers losing money, the PUC will work with the grain buyer to stay in business. “Obviously that’s our hope, to help keep those folks in business,” Nelson said. If someone loses money, this legislation would make it a felony. If the PUC thinks the business can recover, it won’t become public knowledge.

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“The reason for that is, if we made that public, would you do business with them? Probably not. It would have the opposite effect of what we want,” Nelson said. If the PUC determines there’s no hope for recovery, they can recommend to the commission that the grain buyer’s license be pulled, and that would come into the public record during a PUC meeting. The company would have a chance to defend itself. The bill also includes language which tries to remedy a problem that the PUC has when dealing with out-of-state companies like Anderson Seed, which is based in Minnesota. The bill says that if

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the PUC wants a document or financial statement, the company has to get it to them within five days or else face a penalty. It would also keep grain buyers or elevators from preventing PUC officials from inspecting their books. “You’ve got to let them see your records, and do their job, and if you interfere with their inspection to the point that they can’t do their job, then they can come to the commission and ask that their license be suspended.” House Bill 1017 has already passed the full House of Representatives easily by a vote of 662. It will now move to a Senate committee for a hearing. No date has been set.

February 2013

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Farmers Union Footnotes

NFU Seeking Summer Interns

2012 Census of Agriculture

Livestock Forums Planned by SDDA

When can a part-time job change your life? When it’s a Farmers Union paid internship on Capitol Hill! NFU is now accepting applications for its internship program. NFU’s internships typically last two months and may be tailored to the career goals of the individual. Internship areas of interest include communications, cooperative development, economics, education, membership marketing, policy research and political science.S Summer internships are two-to-three months in length with an application deadline of Feb. 12, 2013. Extended internships up to six months are available during the fall/winter/spring sessions. For more information and to download the application, please visit www.nfu.org/education/internships. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

The 2012 Census of Agriculture is being mailed to farmers and ranchers across the United States. Conducted every five years by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), the Census provides detailed data of many facets of U.S. agriculture. It looks at land use and ownership, production practices, expenditures and other factors that affect the way farmers do business. All farmers and ranchers should have received a Census form in the mail in early January. Completed forms are due by Feb. 4, 2013. Farmers can return their forms by mail or online by visiting a secure website, www.agcensus.usda.gov. Federal law requires all agricultural producers to participate in the Census and requires NASS to keep all individual information confidential.

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) and South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension will hold forums across the state to discuss South Dakota’s vision for livestock production this January through March. “South Dakota has progressive, forward-thinking entrepreneurs who understand the exciting potential of today’s agri-business marketplace,” said SD Secretary of Agriculture Walt Bones. “We’re starting the conversation about the challenges and advantages South Dakota has to increase the number of livestock in our state.” All forums are scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. local time but are subject to change. The scheduled forums:

THANK YOU

Thank you so much for inviting us to the Young Agricultural Producers Conference. It was truly an inspirational and educational weekend — not to mention FUN! The networking that took place was a testament to the fact that there are numerous like-minded individuals that care about South Dakota ag. Best wishes, — Jeremy & Lisa Kippley, Aberdeen

THANK YOU On behalf of the animals and the staff at the Beadle County Humane Society, we would like to thank you for your generous contribution. Thank you for the cat litter! — Kim Krueger Executive Director Beadle County Humane Society

Feb. 4-Hub City Livestock Feb. 6-Bales Continental Feb. 8-Glacial Lakes Livestock Feb. 25-Platte Livestock Feb. 26-Magness Livestock Feb. 27-Madison Livestock Feb. 28-Kimball Livestock March 5-Mitchell Livestock March 6-Yankton Livestock March 7-Sioux Falls Regional March 11-Belle Fourche Livestock March 12-St. Onge Livestock March 13-Faith Livestock March 14-Lemmon Livestock March 18-Miller Livestock March 19-Presho Livestock March 20-Winner Livestock March 21-Chamberlain Livestock For more information, contact Sarah Caslin, SDDA Livestock Development Specialist at 605773-3649 or visit http://sdda.sd.gov

THANK YOU As we kick off our Fiscal Year 2013, we want to thank you for your support of value-added agriculture in South Dakota. South Dakota Farmers Union’s commitment and your participation as a board member has helped make the Value-Added Agriculture Development Center the place to go for agribusiness development for more than 150 clients. We look forward to partnering with you to grow our footprint in our rural communities. — Cheri Rath Executive Director SD Value-Added Ag Development Center

February 2012

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Passings

Farmers Union Footnotes

Elaine (Frey) Zirpel, 73, of Parkston, died January 8, 2013, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls. Funeral services were held Jan. 11 at Faith Lutheran Church in Parkston with the Rev. Kenneth Soyk officiating. Burial was in the Parkston Protestant Cemetery. Elaine E. Frey, was born at the Shaw Hospital in Tripp Feb. 25, 1939 to Otto and Hulda Frey. She grew up west of Tripp. She was baptized and confirmed at Friedens United Church of Christ, Tripp, and was confirmed into the Lutheran faith at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Dimock, under the Rev. Leonard Eberhardt. She attended elementary school at Pearly Mound Country School through the eighth grade and graduated from Tripp High School in 1957. She married Norbert Zirpel on June 30, 1957, at Tripp. They lived south and southwest of Parkston. In 1964, they moved to their present farm. She taught Sunday school and Vacation Bible School, and participated in the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League and Valentine luncheon projects at Faith Lutheran. In the community, she volunteered in Farmers Union, helping with St. John’s Local camp for 33 years, and Thrivent (Aid Association for Lutherans) projects for 30 years. She is survived by her husband, Norbert Zirpel; seven children, Charlotte (Gary) Adamson, Centerville; David (Pamala), Sioux City, Iowa; Mark (Lori), Parkston; Marjo (Roger) Soukup, Lake Andes; Bruce (Kara), Omaha, Neb.; Troy (Heather), Maricopa, Ariz.; and Kayla (Mark) Zirpel-Proctor, St. Paul, Minn.; 21 grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren; one sister, Darlene (Marvin) Holec, Tabor; one brother, Elmer (Marlene) Frey, West Bend, Wis.; in-laws, Lillian Zirpel, Mitchell; Elmer and Luella Zirpel, Appleton, Wis.; Clifford and Rose Roth, Huron; Harold and Mary Ellen Mettenbrink, Sioux City, Iowa; two aunts, Lorraine (Otto) Weisser and Esther (Albert) Weisser; and 36 nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Otto and Hulda Frey; brother, Ernest; sister, Violet Thum; in-laws, Ray Thum, Marlene Frey, William Wenzel, Leonard and Johnny Zirpel, Wilburt and Audery Zirpel, Erwin and Olinda Zirpel, Harold and Virigina Zirpel, and Richard Mehlhaff and seven nieces and nephews. Raymond Wollschlager, 81, of rural Revillo died Jan. 26, 2013, at the Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls. Mass of Christian Burial was held Thursday, Jan. 31, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Milbank. The Rev. Gary DeRouchey officiated. Father John McMullen, OSB, con-celebrated, and burial was be in the St. Lawrence Catholic Cemetery. Military honors were provided by the American Legion, Meyer Thompson Post #536, Nassau, Minn. Raymond Herman Wollschlager was born at home in Vernon Township, Grant County, on Nov. 18, 1931, to Bruno and Agnes (Roggenbuck) Wollschlager. He was one of 10 children. He at-

tended Vernon Country School. In May of 1954, he entered the Army. On Oct. 16, 1954, he married Velma Adelman at Rosen, Minn. After his military years, Ray returned home and started his farming career in rural Revillo and also was a seed salesman. His hobbies included gardening and growing sweet corn. Ray was well known for selling sweet corn with his grandchildren in the community. Ray was a member of the Nassau American Legion, Knights of Columbus, and Minnkota Sportmans Club. He enjoyed attending the grandchildren’s events, especially ball games. Ray is survived by his wife Velma of Revillo. Their children are: David Wollschlager (Karlene) of Revillo; Joan Wollschlager of Lake Preston; Debb Wendland (Rod) of Brookings; Cheryl Knudson of Clear Lake; Susan Lester of Milbank; Chuck Wollshlager (Tammy) of Revillo; and Sandy Berg of LaBolt. He has 18 grandchildren and 11 greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Bruno and Agnes Wollschlager, sister Lucy (Daniel) Karels and brother James (Roseann) Wollschlager. Willis Hofhenke, 86, of Huron, died Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2013, at SunQuest Healthcare Center in Huron. He is the father-in-law of South Dakota Farmers Union Secretary/Treasurer Karla Hofhenke. His funeral was held Saturday, January 26, 2013, at Riverview United Methodist Church in Huron. Burial was at Restlawn Memory Gardens Cemetery. Willis Lewis Hofhenke was born Nov. 14, 1926, in Milbank, to Henry and Mayme (Wenholz) Hofhenke. He was the oldest of six children. He attended country school in rural Milbank. After the eighth grade he went to work on the family farm near Milbank. He married Genevieve Brandt in Big Stone City on April 15, 1951. He worked for Flannery’s in Milbank until they closed in 1964, then the couple moved to Huron so he could continue working for Flannery’s. He then drove a milk truck for 5 Star Dairy in Lake Preston, which later became AMPI. He retired in November 1989. He enjoyed cooking, baking, reading, going on bus tours and camping. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Genevieve Hofhenke of Huron; six children, Francis (Geraldine) Hofhenke of Watertown, Diane (Dennis) Johnson of Enderlin, N.D., Becky Bryant of Ethan, Doug (Karla) Hofhenke of Huron, Kerry Hofhenke of Huron, Dede Hofhenke of Huron; 12 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; one brother, David (Glenda) Hofhenke of Bellingham, Minn.; two sisters-in-law, Joyce Hofhenke of Milbank, Jackie (Jim) Beiring of Champlin, Minn.; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Royal, Lyle, Earl; and one sister, Adeline Kruger.

Clip & Save Calendar February 2013 14-17 15-16 16 18 22 26

College Conf. on Co-ops, Mpls SDFU State Convention (Aberdeen) A Night on the Prairie (Aberdeen) State Office Closed (Pres. Day) Sale Barn Coffee-Magness (Huron) Sale Barn Coffee, Bales (Huron)

March 2013 2-5 8 16 23 25

NFU Convention, Mass. Main Legislative Session Ends District II Meeting, Humboldt Ag Day Wash. Pavilion, Sioux Falls Last Day of Session (Veto Day)

Quiz Bowl Semifinals (Brookings)

April 2013 May 2013 6-10 27 28-31

Summer Intern Training State Office Closed (Mem. Day) District I&II Camp (Swan Lake)

June 2013 2-7 19 23-28

State Camp (Storm Mountain) Foundation Golf Tourn. (Huron) All State’s Camp, Bailey, Colo.

July 2013

7-10 Dist. III & VII Camp (Lake Rich.) 29-31 3-Year Award Trip, Mpls 30- Aug 1 Dist. IV, V & VI Camp (Custer) Visit the Events section at www.sdfu.org for more details on upcoming events.

Anniversaries LaVern and Alice Aisenbrey celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary Jan. 4, 2013, with their family. Greetings may be sent to 607 S. 3rd St., Menno, SD 57045. LaVern was District I director on the SDFU Board of Directors from 1982-2000.

Birthdays Verla Lindblad celebrated her 85th birthday on January 26, 2013. Cards can be sent to 39470 205th St., Wolsey, SD 57384. Verla is a former staff member of SDFU.

South Dakota Union Farmer is published 10 times per calendar year with issues in January, February, March, April, May/June, July, Aug./ Sept., October, November, and December. All information for publication must be submitted by the 15th of the month. You may submit items by mail to the State Office, P.O. Box 1388, Huron, SD 57350 or email items to: cstuder@ sdfu.org