September 2016

South Dakota HURON, SD

SEPTEMBER 2016

UNION FARMER A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

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2016 Leadership Couple

Camp Wrapup

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Change Brings Members Out to Discuss Policy South Dakota Farmers Union Celebrates the During 2016 County Counselor Meeting record number of members Vedvei Farm Family turned out for the 2016 South

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Dakota Farmers Union County Counselor meeting held in Pierre Aug. 4.

Policy discussed during the County Counselors meeting will be brought before the membership and voted on during the State Convention in December.

Policy set during convention provides direction for S.D. Farmers Union lobbying efforts during Legislative Session 2017.

To increase state-wide representation, a recent change was made by the SDFU Board of Directors to how the County Jerry Petik and AJ Novak Counselor Committee is put together.

Many members in attendance Aug. 4 voiced their thoughts on this change.

“Change is difficult, but our policy is grassroots-driven and this change provides equal representation across our state,” explains Doug Sombke, SDFU President.

The change Sombke references was made to the make-up of the County Counselor Committee. Instead of the committee being made up of three members elected by the membership, this year the Board of Directors appointed seven members - one member from each district - to serve on the committee.

“South Dakota is a very diverse state when it comes to agriculture. What works policy-wise for members in Faulkton may not work for members in Isabel. Diversity on the County Counselor

Counselor Meeting Continued on Page 5

Farmers Union Day at the 2016 S.D. State Fair is Saturday, Sept. 3.

Free State Fair Tickets for S.D. Farmers Union Members!

For ticket details & full agenda turn to page 11

South Dakota Farmers Union has served South Dakota farm and ranch families for more than a century. Throughout the year, we share their stories in order to highlight the families who make up our state’s number one industry and help feed the world.

This month, we’re highlighting the Vedvei family who raises purebred Charolais cattle and crops near Lake Preston.

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merging from the show ring with a big smile, first time 4-Her, Hadlee Holt, 9, was greeted by her parents, Corrie “Vedvei” and DJ Holt, with a big hug and sighs of relief.

“It was nerve-racking to watch, but seeing that smile was priceless,” explains Corrie of watching her daughter show for the first time.

A third-generation 4-H alumnus, Corrie says it’s exciting to see her daughter continue the family legacy of 4-H involvement and showing registered Charolais cattle. “When I look back and think about all the life lessons

Vedvei Family Continued on Page 2

UNION FARMER Vedvei Family Continued from Page 1

The Vedvei Farm Family (taken Christmas 2015): Back row (L to R): Jerod and Melanie Olson; Stacie and Mitch Olson; Corrie and DJ Holt. Middle row (L to R): Bentlee Holt, Kinzlee Olson, Al Vedvei, Hadlee Holt and Deb Vedvei. Front row (L to R): Paisley Olson, Camden Olson, Cambree Holt and Khloe Olson.

I learned growing up on the farm, showing cattle and working alongside my sisters to help my mom and dad – DJ and I want those same experiences for our girls,” Corrie says of daughters Hadlee, 9, Bentlee, 5, and Cambree, 1.

At 35, Corrie has not missed a single South Dakota State Fair. Her parents, Al and Deb “Wienk” Vedvei, recall bringing their firstborn to the state fair as a young baby – the family camping in a tent.

Today, they camp in air conditioned campers, which made Corrie’s decision to pack up her firstborn, Hadlee, and bring her to the State Fair four days after she was born, an easy one.

“We all grew up showing,” says Deb, 57.

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“The State Fair is our chance to reconnect with friends we only get to see once a year.”

“It’s like a big family reunion,” Al, 58, adds.

Today, the family is working cattle together on their farm near Lake Preston.

Hadlee and Bentlee watch a safe distance from the chute.

“Helping on the farm is my happy place working calves with my family is one of my favorite days of the year,” explains Corrie, who splits her time between the farm, a fulltime career with Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) as a Soil Technician and recently launching Ag Buddy, a publication all about agriculture for kids.

DJ works for Al full-time – a career he

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began a few months after meeting Corrie at a National Charolais Show in Texas. Corrie

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Deb & Al Vedvei

and DJ met in 2000 and married in January 2002.

“I’m grateful to Al for this opportunity to work with cattle full-time. Without him, I wouldn’t be able to do this,” explains DJ, who grew up in Ozark, Arkansas. Like Corrie, he spent his teen years showing registered Charolais cattle. “I moved here in January, so a lot of their friends gave me a hard time, asking why I’d move to South Dakota.”

“I remember the first week DJ was here; it was negative 20 outside and he was sitting across from dad at the kitchen table and asked, ‘Do we go out on days like today?’”

Corrie remembers, laughing.

Al says employing DJ just made sense.

“This is how I’ve secured my legacy,” explains Al, a third generation Kingsbury County farmer and cattle producer. “It’s our opportunity to pass this operation down to the next generation. My legacy won’t be left by what I do or have done, but by what the next generation does on this farm – whether it’s with crops or cattle.”

Al added that he was given a similar opportunity by his father-in-law, Arnold Wienk, when he and Deb got married.

“When we started dating Arnold offered me a summer job to work for him custom baling.

I got paid $1 a bale. It was the summer of ’77 and I earned $5,000.”

Al and Deb married in 1978 and moved into the farmhouse her great-grandparents, Art and Myrte Marquardt, built in 1919. At that time, the couple had 45 ewes from a flock Al had built up as 4-H and FFA projects and seven cows.

Having grown up together in the Lake Preston farming community, Al and Deb shared a similar affection for 4-H and showing cattle, but not for farm life.

“I’m almost embarrassed to tell this story because I know it will be in print, but I always told my friends, ‘I’m not marrying a farmer,’” Deb says.

She explains that growing up, the oldest of five girls on the farm in the 1970s – life wasn’t easy. “Our family went through some really tough times. I always thought, ‘There has got to be an easier way. In farming the hours are long and so much is out of your control – you rely on the prices and the weather.’”

Al understood her concerns, but because he felt called to farm, he asked Deb to give him five years. “He said, ‘If we are still in debt five years from now, we’ll do something else.’

Famous last words! 38 years later, we still have debt, but this has turned into an awesome place to raise my kids and now, our grandkids. I wouldn’t change a thing,” says Deb, who spends most weekdays watching at least two of her seven grandchildren.

Except for the first few years of their marriage, Deb has worked right alongside Al. “After our second daughter was born, we decided instead of paying for childcare, with my knowledge and experience, I was more valuable helping here,” she explains.

Corrie’s sisters include: Stacie Olson, who together with her husband, Mitch, has two children, Paisley and Camden; and Melanie Olson, who together with her husband, Jerod, also has two children, Khloe and Kinzlee.

Although Stacie lives in Gerogia, she stays involved with the farm by helping Deb with the record keeping.

As Al became more involved with Wienk Charolais, he received heifers as payment. By the time Al’s dad, Alec, was ready to retire

and hand over the Vedvei farm to Al and his brother, Charlie, Al and Deb had grown their herd of registered Charolais to 45.

Some of the land Al and his brother, Charlie, farm has been in his family since his grandfather, Sam Vedvei, farmed.

He emigrated from Norway to Kingsbury County.

Together with his wife, Andrina, also an immigrant from Norway, Sam farmed two quarters of land and operated what was then a typical South Dakota farm with milk cows, beef cattle, chickens, hogs and sheep.

In the 1930s Sam earned enough to keep his land by working for the WPA building roads with the help from his team of horses.

Until Al was 5, his dad was a fuel delivery man for Farmers Union Oil Company in Lake Preston - the cooperative that is today Prairie Ag Partners. Alec saved up enough to purchase some farm ground in 1962 northeast of Lake Preston.

DJ and Corrie Holt

“When my parents moved onto that farm there was electricity, but no running water and no indoor plumbing,” recalls Al, explaining that his parents and their four young children would live without these modern conveniences until Alec and Helen built a new home in 1970.

Over the years Al and Deb have purchased and leased crop and pastureland while at the

Vedvei Family Continued on Page 15

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UNION FARMER 2016 Insuring a Brighter Tomorrow Scholarship Winners Announced T he South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation, in cooperation with Farmers Union Insurance Agency, have announced the recipients of the annual Insuring a Brighter Tomorrow scholarships.

Twenty-five high school seniors from across South Dakota will share $25,000 in scholarships to be used to further their education at a South Dakota post-secondary school. Over the past 10 years, the Foundation has awarded more than $250,000 in scholarships to students attending South Dakota post-secondary schools.

Each of the 25 scholarship recipients will receive $1,000 to put toward their postsecondary education at a South Dakota college, university or technical school. The recipients were chosen from among a large pool of applicants.

They were scored based on a combination of academic record, activities and awards, financial need, and an essay relating to how they will "Insure a Brighter Tomorrow" in South Dakota.

Farmers Union Insurance agents throughout the state fund this scholarship program administered by the Farmers Union Foundation.

"Our insurance agents are committed to building a brighter future in South Dakota," said Jason Wells, Regional Manager of Farmers Union Insurance Agency. "This is a remarkable group and they make me excited about the future of our great state. We're choosing to invest in these outstanding Madigan Moore individuals to help them Daughter of Steve & Mitzi Moore pursue their goals and Watertown High School aspirations.

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Kierra Determan

Caleb Whitmyre

Alyssa Stevens

Garrett Snook

Daughter of Gordon & Kay Determan Hanson High School

Son of Robert & Tonia Whitmyre Webster Area High School

Daughter of TJ & Kathy Stevens Wolsey-Wessington High School

Son of Gary & Deborah Snook Philip High School

Paul Schwasinger

Emily Schmitz

Rex Schlicht

Reid Sawatzke

Son of Tim & Patty Schwasinger Vermillion High School

Daughter of Jerry & Sally Schmitz Vermillion High School

Son of Shelley Schlicht Woonsocket High School

Son of Jim & Connie Sawatzke Yankton High School

Bailey Moody

Libbey Miles

Nichole Metter

Molly Koisti

Daughter of Perry & Tracy Moody Sanborn Central High School

Daughter of Jeff & Jodie Miles Doland High School

Daughter of Mike & Peggy Metter Huron High School

Daughter of Tim & Alyssa Koisti Hamlin High School

Jaclynn Knutson

Kennedy Kirsch

Hannah Kilker

Jessica Houser

Marlee Jones

Molly Heyn

Daughter of Jason & Alicia Knutson Viborg-Hurley High School

Daughter of Karl & Shannon Kirsch St. Thomas More High School

Daughter of Darian & Andrea Kilker Britton-Hecla High School

Daughter of Robert & Darla Houser Hill City High School

Daughter of Jim & Mendy Jones Groton Area High School

Daughter of Steven & Jodi Heyn Chester Area High School

Miranda Henglefelt

Kaitlyn Hague

Logan Ellingson

Tasha Determan

Kayla Bailly

Lily Cutler

Daughter of Donald & Jody Henglefelt Hanson High School

Daughter of Randy & Kelly Hague Highmore-Harrold High School

Daughter of John & Nicole Ellingson Warner High School

Daughter of Gordon & Kay Determan Hanson High School

Daughter of Kenn Bailly; Patrick & Suzanne Moen Warner High School

Daughter of James & Lisa Cutler Groton Area High School

SEPTEMBER 2016

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WWW.SDFU.ORG

UNION FARMER Counselor Meeting Continued from Page 1 Committee reflects these differences,” Sombke says. “Watching the committee discuss issues the morning prior to the meeting was energizing!”

As a board member who voted for the change, District 3 President, Franklin Olson, says he was impressed by what he experienced during the County Counselor meeting.

Paul Symens and John Sumption

“I think it worked excellent. More people involved equals greater involvement of the entire state,” Olson says. “Without change, organizations tend to wither away. We cannot remain stagnant for long. We are either going to climb or decline.”

Olson said that along with increasing local representation, the Board hopes the change will get more members acquainted with the Farmers Union policy process.

“Policy leads our grassroots organization.

It’s how we get our point across to the Legislature and Governor. We need more

members to be actively involved,” Olson said.

Gregory farmer, Sherman Vomacka, is a good example. Representing District 4 on the County Counselor Committee, this is the first time he has served on this committee. “I enjoyed learning about the process and being more actively involved in what is going on,” Vomacka says. “I farm and I’ve helped lobby in the past, so I figure I should give my input from the start of the process. I thought the committee and membership worked together well to come up with new insights and new ideas and did a good job presenting those ideas.”

Orrie Swayze, a farmer from Wilmot, was impressed by membership involvement during policy discussion. Swayze says he feels good about the change. “Members are our biggest resource, so the more we can get them involved, the better,” Swayze says.

Jerry Petik, a Corson County rancher, said that although he understands why some members are slow to embrace the change, he believes increased involvement in policy development is a positive move. He encourages all members to turn out for future Counselor meetings and participate in policy development during State Convention.

“Farmers Union is the most representative organization of family farmers and ranchers.

That’s why I’m involved,” says Petik, a former board member and 40-plus-year member. “By attending County Counselors, members have the opportunity to better understand and debate policy prior to convention. They say

The 2016 County Councilors (State Policy Committee), Left to Right: Oren Lesmeister, District 6; Frank Zweber, District 7; Gary Hanson, District 3; Sherman Vomacka, District 4; David Cap, District 1; Dick Klousek, District 2.

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we need to hear things more than once to grasp them and understand their meaning.”

Policy Under Development Below is an outline of policy discussed during the 2016 County Counselor held Aug. 4 compiled by SDFU Legislative Specialist, Matt Sibley. Members will have an opportunity to add their input and introduce new policy during the December State Convention.

CHS Bylaw Proposal The new CHS bylaw proposal was once again a topic of discussion at County Counselors. During this discussion members expressed their support of the CapperVolstead Act. The Capper-Volstead Act currently provides many cooperatives with protections from anti-trust laws. Members approved a Special Order of Business that reinforced the support of Capper-Volstead and urged CHS to reject any changes that would be detrimental to the federated cooperative model.

Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Lab Members expressed their support for a new Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Lab. They discussed the deficiencies of the current lab and the need for a new lab at SDSU in Brookings. A Special Order of Business was passed urging support of the new ADRDL lab. The Special Order of Business also noted that funding should come from sources like the current paraciticide tax and other funding that adequately represents all beneficiaries of the lab.

Buffer Strip Bill Senate Bill 131 from the 2016 Legislative Session was another topic of discussion at this year’s County Counselors. Members expressed frustration over the Governor’s veto of a voluntary buffer strip program that was passed by the legislature in 2016. In another Special Order of Business, members stated

Counselor Meeting Continued on Page 18 SEPTEMBER 2016

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UNION FARMER 2016 National Farmers Union D.C. Fly-In

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embers from South Dakota Farmers Union will join with more than 200 Farmers Union members from across the country in Washington, D.C., this September 11-14, 2016.

These members will meet with U.S. Department of Agriculture leaders, key White House staff and nearly every Congressional and Senatorial official on Capitol Hill.

“This is an amazing opportunity for South Dakota Farmers Union members to share their stories, not only with South Dakota Congressional representatives, but with representatives from across the nation – boots on the ground lobbying for agriculture,” explains Doug Sombke, SDFU President.

Sombke became actively involved in Farmers Union after participating in the 1995 D.C. Fly-In. “Being in D.C. and seeing first-hand how this organization works for family farmers and ranchers really impressed me. It motivated me to become more involved in the grassroots efforts going on in South Dakota,” he says.

For decades, Farmers Union members have made an annual migration to Washington to make their case for smarter, fairer farm policies. The only major change to this event in the last 50 years is the preferred mode of transportation to get to the nation’s capital.

Focus topics While in Washington, Fly-In participants

Doug Sombke sits down with Sen. John Thune-R during the 2015 NFU D.C. Fly-In to discuss issues and policy important to South Dakota family farmers and ranchers.

will conduct hundreds of targeted meetings with members of Congress focusing on: urging Congress to reject the flawed TransPacific Partnership trade deal; opposing any legislative changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS); calling for adequate support for farmers experiencing the worst farm economy in well over a decade; and insisting that members of Congress hold hearings to examine the extreme consolidation in the agricultural inputs sector.

Fly-In participants will also present the

organization’s highest honor, the Golden Triangle Award, to a bipartisan group of senators and representatives who have demonstrated leadership on issues relevant to America’s family farmers, ranchers and rural communities. Members will accept the awards at a reception at the Stewart Mott House in Washington, D.C. To learn more about how you can attend the future fly-ins, contact Karla Hofhenke, Karla@sdfu.org or 605-352-6761, ext. 114.

SDFU Foundation $500 Scholarship Applications Due Dec 5, 2016 South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation will be awarding three $500 scholarships to young people who commit to attending a South Dakota college, university or technical school and are children of parents who are current dues-paying members of South Dakota Farmers Union.

Scholarships are available to high school seniors or freshmen currently enrolled in a post-secondary institution in South Dakota.

"South Dakota Farmers Union is all about building South Dakota's rural communities," said Doug Sombke, S.D. Farmers Union President. "We invest in rural youth from the time they are in early elementary school and old enough to attend County Day Camps."

Rachel Haigh-Blume, S.D. Farmers Union Education Director, adds, "These scholarships ensure that the young individuals

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focusing on rural endeavors are supported along the way.

Keeping students in South Dakota is important for the legacy and sustainability of rural communities.”

Deadline is Dec. 5, 2016. No late or incomplete scholarships will be accepted.

Applications can be found on the S.D. Farmers Union website, www.sdfu.org, at a local Farmers Union cooperative, or through a local Farmers Union Insurance agent.

If you do not apply through the online application form, all documents should be mailed to: South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation Scholarship Committee, PO Box 1388, Huron, SD 57350-1388; and must be postmarked Dec. 5 or before.

If you have any questions, contact Haigh-Blume at Rachel@sdfu.org or 605-352-6761, ext.125.

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UNION FARMER 300 Gallons Plus of Premium E30 Sold During Farmers Union 30-For-30 Event in Pierre Kyle Fulk fuels up during the Pierre 30-For-30 event hosted by South Dakota Farmers Union.

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nthusiasm for Premium E30 ran high at Cowboy Country Store during S.D. Farmers Union 30-For-30 event held in Pierre Aug. 3, 2016, as drivers received 30 cents

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back for every gallon of Premium E30 purchased.

“Our customers were having fun,” says Jody Claramveau, the store’s manager.

While patrons fueled up, S.D. Farmers

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Union state staff shared with drivers the numerous benefits of fueling up with Premium E30 including the fact that the product saves folks money at the pump, gives their engines more power, is locally grown and better for health and the environment.

“I had a lot of customers come in and say that until this event they didn’t know they could use Premium E30 in their cars,” Claramveau explains. “With our economy the way that it is, I thought it would be a good idea to promote a product which supports our state’s farmers and agriculture economy.”

More than 300 gallons of Premium E30 were sold during the two-hour event.

“We were happy with how everything went,” says Kecia Beranek, SDFU Communications Specialist. “Educating the public on the benefits of Premium E30 is a priority of our membership and something our entire team takes seriously. This event was a fun and effective way to get the word out.”

Since the beginning, S.D. Farmers Union has supported the ethanol industry. “Fueling up with a 30 percent blend of ethanol not only saves folks money, but it supports South Dakota’s family farmers who market their corn to the state’s many ethanol plants,” explains Doug Sombke, SDFU President.

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UNION FARMER Support for U.S. Dairy Farmers

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Creates a balanced 9-member committee

Requires committee members not hold public office 3 years before or after being selected

FU sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack in August, requesting much needed relief for U.S. dairy farmers. The letter suggests the USDA use existing authority to aid dairy farmers during the difficult economic downturn that is distressing the industry.

Last month, NFU established an emergency dairy planning committee to address shortcomings in the current federal dairy program and build support for a stronger safety net and emergency assistance for U.S. dairy producers.

Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy), the federal dairy price program established in the 2014 Farm Bill, has provided very little benefit for dairy producers despite farmers heavily investing in the program. In 2015, U.S. dairy producers paid $73 million into MPP-Dairy and only received $700,000 back from the program.

Specifically, NFU is urging USDA to use its authority under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and Section 32 of the Agriculture Adjustment Act of 1935 to provide direct financial support that will protect all of our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dairy farmers from further crisis.

The U.S. has lost more than 18,000 dairy farms in the past decade, and the trend is continuing with the current milk price declines. The dairy industry has a great need for immediate action that offers market stabilization and support without further stimulating milk overproduction.

NFU will continue to work with the dairy industry, Congress and USDA to propose meaningful reforms that will support dairy farms, an important segment of our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy.

Bans the use of political party identification and incumbency to manipulate voter maps

Establishes constitutional guidelines requiring counties and neighborhoods be kept in the same district whenever possible

Gives South Dakotans a 30-day public comment period to express their comments and concerns on potential voter maps

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UNION FARMER Wessington Springs Farm Couple will Represent South Dakota as Members of the 2016 Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program

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cott and Amber Kolousek will represent South Dakota Farmers Union as members of the 2016 Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program.

Developed to substantiate and empower future leaders for rural America and Farmers Union, the Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program provides training and hands-on experiences which enable couples to become knowledgeable leaders.

Each year, one farm or ranch couple from South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin and Minnesota are selected to participate in the year-long leadership program.

“It’s nice to be a part of an organization where we get to network with other farm couples who have the same core beliefs that we do and Farmers Union does – to support family farms and stand up to organizations who don’t support us,” explains Scott, who together with his wife, Amber, and parents, Dick and Janet, operate a 600-head Angus/Hereford cow/calf herd backgrounding operation.

The family utilizes intensive grazing to manage 4,700 acres of rangeland. They raise oats, winter wheat, alfalfa and grass hay on an additional 1,300 acres of farmland; they also do some custom farming and hay moving to supplement their machinery budget.

Scott and Amber are busy parents with school-age children: Isaac, Abby and Ella.

Their son, Jacob, was killed in a tragic accident last summer.

Growing up in Wessington Springs, the couple is actively involved in the community.

Amber is currently serving as vice chairperson of the Wessington Springs School Board. “I’m involved because it’s a way to give back and do what needs to be done,” Amber says.

“We are both involved in our community because we believe that if we want it to remain a viable community for our children

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Scott and Amber Kolousek, Wessington Springs, will represent South Dakota Farmers Union as members of the 2016 Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program. They are pictured here during the 2014 NFU D.C. Fly-In.

and young families, then we need to do our part,” Scott explains. “A little under 900 people make up this community and it is quickly becoming an elderly community – so it’s up to those of us who can to be involved.”

Farmers Union members for several years, Scott and Amber became more involved after participating in the 2014 D.C. Fly-In. More about Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program Throughout the year, the farm and ranch couples involved meet five times. The sessions begin with a summer family session where the 2016 participants and their families get to meet with the 2015 class.

The second gathering will be held at one of the participating state’s State Conventions. The third gathering is held during National Farmers Union Convention.

The fourth gathering is again, the family session, with the final gathering held in conjunction with the Washington, D.C., FlyIn.

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“We have been so impressed with the quality of the individuals who have completed the program and I think Farmers Union and each of their respective communities and states will benefit from these young couples,” said Harley Danielson, Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program Coordinator.

Following each Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program event, Scott and Amber will share what they learned with Union Farmer readers.

To learn more about Scott and Amber, visit www.sdfu.org and click on the Celebrate Farm and Ranch Families icon. The Kolousek family and their farm and cattle operation were highlighted in June 2015.

To learn more and find out how you can participate in the 2017 Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program, contact Karla Hofhenke at khofhenke@sdfu.org or 605-352-6761, ext.

114.

Order Your Own Copy of the Farmers Union Centennial Cookbook Cookbooks are $15 plus tax and shipping. Contact Pam Evenson, 605-352-6761, ext: 116, to place your order today!

SEPTEMBER 2016

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UNION FARMER S.D. Farmers Union Celebrates our State’s Family Farmers & Ranchers, Rural Youth & Community Heroes During the 2016 S.D. State Fair

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armers Union Day at the 2016 South Dakota State Fair is a great opportunity to showcase South Dakota family farmers and ranchers and all they do for the state’s economy, rural communities and the world.

“In the tradition of the State Fair, Farmers Union Day honors the cream of the crop,” explains Doug Sombke, South Dakota Farmers Union President. “Whether it’s honoring those who give back to rural communities with the Rural Dakota Pride Award, recognizing the work that our family farmers and ranchers put into raising food and fuel through the Farmers Share Luncheon or youth who will compete in the Team Up For Safety Farm Safety Championship.”

Rural Dakota Pride Awards The 2016 Rural Dakota Pride Award goes to four individuals to recognize their selfless contributions to rural communities across the state.

The honorees include: Bryan Breitling, Miller; Doug Edwards, South Hand County; Sharon Wilson, Black Hawk; and Tim Pravecek, Winner. Turn to page 14 to read more.

As an organization which supports South Dakota farmers and ranchers, Farmers Union understands the integral connection between those who work in South Dakota’s number one industry and their rural communities.

“One cannot survive without the other,” says Karla Hofhenke, Executive Director of S.D. Farmers Union. “Without thriving communities, it’s difficult to encourage young people to return to their family’s farm or ranch. Rural communities are key to the future of South Dakota’s agriculture industry, which is why we like to recognize those individuals who help them thrive.”

The organization will also announce the 25 South Dakota students who received $1,000 scholarships for post-secondary education as part of the Farmers Union Foundation and Farmers Union Insurance Agency 2016 Insuring a Brighter Tomorrow Scholarship program. Turn to page 4 to read more.

“Education is one of the three pillars upon which Farmers Union is built. Year-round, Farmers Union invests in providing leadership, cooperative and farm safety educational programming to school-age rural youth across South Dakota,” Sombke explains.

Team Up To Safety Quiz Bowl Sombke and Hofhenke invite everyone to watch rural youth in action by attending the 2016 S.D. Farmers Union Team Up To Safety Quiz Bowl

July 2016 Price Barometer & Parity Product (unit)

Retail

Farmer Share

*Retail prices are based on store brand except where noted from Safeway, Washington, D.C., July 30, 2016. Change is in relation to the farmer’s share from the previous month.

July 2016 Price Barometer & Parity Prices Share prices reflect June 2016 prices July 2016 Price Barometer &~ Farmer’s Parity Prices

Product (unit) Product (unit)

Retail

Multi-purpose Flour (5 pounds) Bread (Country Whole Wheat, 1 pound loaf) Wheaties cereal (General Mills, 15 oz box) Beer (can, 6-pack Budweiser) Soda (2 liter bottle) Milk (1 gallon, fat free) Potatoes (Russet, 5 lbs) Potato Chips (Lays Classic 8 oz) Boneless Ham (1 pound) Bacon (1 pound) Top Sirloin Steak (1 pound) Eggs (1 dozen AA-L) Carrots (fresh. 4 pounds) Lettuce (head, 2 pounds) Corn Cereal Tomatoes (1 pound) Bagel (wheat)

$6.09 $2.79 $5.29 $6.99 $0.79 $4.39 $3.29 $2.50 $4.39 $4.66 $9.89 $2.79 $3.69 $2.89 $4.69 $1.99 $0.96

Commodity Price* Farmer Farmer Price* Crops Change Share RetailChange Share

Barley (bushel) Corn (bushel) Cotton, Upland (pound) Flaxseed (bushel) Oats (bushel) Peanuts, in-shell (pound) Rice, All (cwt) Sorghum Grain (cwt) Soybeans (bushel) Wheat, All (bushel)

$0.35 $0.10 $0.07 $0.05 $0.06 $1.29 $0.59 $0.18 $0.82 $0.82 $2.01 $0.55 $1.59 $0.52 $0.06 $0.32 $0.01

Cattle, All Beef (cwt) Hogs, All (cwt)

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Commodity Crops

Current Commodity CropsPrice

ParityCurrent % of Parity Price Price ParityPrice

% of Parity

$5.39 $3.82 $0.590 $8.44 $1.98 $.195 $11.50 $6.32 $10.20 $4.20

$14.10 $13.10 $1.95 $33.50 $8.61 $0.669 $39.90 $22.60 $31.40 $18.20

38 29 30 25 23 29 29 28 32 23

$125.00 $60.60

$323.00 $166.00

39 37

$0.55 $15.00

$3.00 $52.40

18 29

Dairy/Poultry

*Retail prices are based on store brand except where noted from Safeway, Washington, D.C., *Retail prices are based on store brand except where noted from Safeway, Washington, D.C., July 30, 2016. Change is in relation to the farmer’s share from the previous month.

July 30, 2016. Change is in relation to the farmer’s share from the previous month. ~ Farmer’s Share prices reflect June 2016 prices ~ Farmer’s Share prices reflect June 2016 prices

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Parity Price

Livestock

SDFU Vice President, Wayne Soren, a farmer from Lake Preston, during the 2015 South Dakota State Fair Farmers Union Farmers Share Luncheon.

SEPTEMBER 2016

Current Price

% of Parity

Eggs, All (dozen) Milk, All (cwt)

WWW.SDFU.ORG

P C

UNION FARMER championship held at 1:15 p.m. on the Freedom Stage across from the Farmers Union Tent.

"The quiz bowl is a fun way for high school students to learn about safety on the farm or ranch," says Hofhenke, of the competition that asks FFA members questions on farm and ranch safety.

Teams qualified for the championship during the S.D. State FFA Convention held this April. The teams include members from the following chapters: Viborg/Hurley FFA Chapter; McCook Central FFA Chapter; Sunshine Bible FFA Chapter; and Lyman FFA Chapter.

"We hope the information they learn during the quiz bowl will prepare them if they are ever faced with an emergency situation or if they're working with livestock or doing any other potentially dangerous job on the farm," Hofhenke said.

Farmers Share Luncheon, Only 30 cents for All During Farmers Union Day The Farmers Share Luncheon, hosted

by SDFU, gives fairgoers an opportunity to learn just how much of the grocery store price tag South Dakota's farmers and ranchers take home after harvesting the crops or livestock they raise.

“Anyone who shops for groceries knows how much they pay to eat; however, they have no way of knowing how much of what they pay in the grocery store actually goes into the pockets of farmers and ranchers who raise the food – that’s why I like the Farmers Share Luncheon,” explains Terry Sestak, District 1 Farmers Union President and a fourth generation farmer from Tabor.

The lunch, which feeds more than 1,000 fair-goers each year, clearly illustrates this by selling a lunch that would typically cost $8 if it were purchased at a café for only 30 cents – the amount South Dakota farmers and ranchers would actually receive for the ingredients. The lunch is a pulled pork sandwich, baked beans, potato chips and milk.

"Everyone is concerned about high prices in the grocery store - I understand that; it wasn't too many years ago that I was shopping for a family of five," said Hofhenke. “However, what our state's farmers and ranchers actually take home as income is a far cry from the prices we all see on our grocery receipt after a trip to the super market."

“This is a good promotion for South Dakota family farmers and ranchers as it increases consumer awareness,” Sestak says. “What better place to promote agriculture and the people who raise our food than at the South Dakota State Fair.”

WWW.SDFU.ORG

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Farmers Union Celebrates the tradition of Camp Season

M

ore than 1,200 youth, ages 6 to 18, learned abo developed leadership skills and celebrated agriculture industry together by attending a County, District or State camp this summer.

"Camps ensure the tradition of educating our importance of cooperatives, leadership at the local safety,” says Rachel Haigh-Blume, S.D. Farmers Union Ed Each year, Haigh-Blume, along with a team of intern of the Junior and Senior Advisory Council, develop cam which achieves the aforementioned goals through fun, activities.

This summer Farmers Union held more than 57 coun district camps (seven districts participating), one local c Leadership Camp.

"Camp season is a great example of how Farm grassroots organization, led by its membership, can impact on rural communities," said Doug Sombke, S.D President.

The counties who hosted camps in 2016 include: Bon Mix, Clay, Douglas, Hutchinson, Lincoln, Turner, Union, Y Brule, Davison, Hanson, Jerauld, Lake, McCook, Min Moody, Sanborn, Brookings-Kingsbury, Clark, Codingt Kingsbury, Marshall, Roberts, Gregory-Fairfax, GregoryTripp, Butte/Lawrence, Haakon/Jackson, Jones, Mea Corson, Dewey/Ziebach, Harding, Perkins, Be Campbell/Walworth, Edmunds/McPherson, F Hughes/Sully/Stanley, Hyde, Potter, Spink and one local Local, Parkston.

In 2016 bees took center stage. Alan Schroeder, a Mt. Vernon, loaned the interns bee keeping equ throughout the summer so the youth could try on outfi bee hive frame (new and used) to learn firsthand what a hive.

“Bees are a great example of a cooperative and eac doing their job to further the group. Youth learned abou in pollination and agriculture as well as South Dakota’s h explains Haigh-Blume.

What's next?

For South Dakota Farmers Union, education is more the focus will turn to school-year youth programming wh school and college age youth about policy and cooperat them to the broader picture of American agriculture t Washington D.C., Midwestern cooperatives and the Sta Farmers Union Conventions.

Farmers Union also brings leadership programming school districts throughout South Dakota through its Rural Economic and Leadership).

“Jr. REAL shows SDFU commitment to bringing training to the local level at no cost to the school. opportunity to build on the skills the youth learned become resourceful leaders in their rural community," sa To learn how you can contribute to S.D. Farme programming, visit www.sdfu.org, contact Karla khofhenke@sdfu.org or call 605-352-6761, ext. 114.

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SEPTEMBER 2016

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WWW.SDFU.ORG

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SEPTEMBER 2016

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2016 Rural Dakota Pride Honorees Each year, SDFU recognizes individuals who give back to their communities with the Rural Dakota Pride Award. To meet the 2016 honorees, attend the Rural Dakota Pride Ceremony held 10:30 a.m., Sept. 3, 2016, during Farmers Union Day at the South Dakota State Fair on the Freedom Stage.

Complete profiles can also be found on our website following the State Fair.

Tim Pravacek, Winner Nearly 100 Tripp County youth compete in 4-H Shooting Sports, and Tim Pravecek knows them all.

The Winner native has been coaching area youth since 1993.

“Shooting sports competition teaches them that winning isn’t everything and it gives them the confidence to handle themselves well under pressure,” explains the 4-H Shooting Sports Coordinator for Tripp County who has had several individuals he coached compete nationally.

Tim has helped organize State and National 4-H Shooting Sports competitions for more than a decade now and received his Junior Olympic Archery Development Instructor Level 2 certification in 2015.

Sharon Wilson, Black Hawk

“Shooting sports competition teaches them that winning isn’t everything and it gives them the confidence to handle themselves well under pressure.” ~ Tim Pravacek

South Dakota winters can be brutal.

Foot Hills Kiwanis Club ensures that children in need of warm winter coats have them before the cold winds blow.

“Kids shouldn’t suffer in the winter.

We make sure kids in need have a new winter coat. You know they love them because the day they come in to pick them out, it is typically too warm to wear a coat, and yet they don’t want to take their new coat off,” explains Sharon Wilson, a charter member of the organization.

Each year Sharon and the other members of the organization raise funds through a pancake breakfast and kids clothes consignment sale to buy new coats for underprivileged Piedmont Valley and Black Hawk Elementary students.

“Kids shouldn’t suffer in the winter. We make sure kids in need have a new winter coat. You know they love them because the day they come in to pick them out, it is typically too warm to wear a coat, and yet they don’t want to take their new coat off.” ~ Sharon Wilson

Bryan Breitling, Miller

Doug Edwards, South Hand County

In 2008, the Hand County Health, Wellness & Community Foundation was formed.

Since its launch, the community of Miller has raised enough money to help contribute major funding for a new hospital addition and renovation project, a community center and a new sprinkler system at the golf course.

Serving in the volunteer position as Foundation Chairperson for the last “Everyone needs to be eight years is Bryan Breitling. invested in their “Everyone needs to be invested in community.” their community. When you live in a ~ Bryan Breitling community, there will be things you don’t like; it’s our responsibility to invest in those things to make the community better,” explains the 47-year-old hospital administrator.

Growing up on a farm near the small community of Roscoe, Bryan learned from an early age what service to others looks like.

His mom is a nurse. He has spent his entire career as a health care administrator in rural communities – and the last 15-plus years in Miller as administrator of Avera Hand County Hospital.

Connecting kids with the outdoors and the sport of hunting is a passion of Hand County farmer, Doug Edwards.

“If you don’t get kids started hunting and fishing as youth, they’ll never start. But, if you get them started and they like it, it will be a sport they enjoy the rest of their lives.”

A third-generation farmer, Doug grew up farming and hunting the land “If you don’t get kids which borders Wall Lake. To preserve started hunting and the land as a wildlife and hunting fishing as youth, they’ll haven, in the late 1950s, Doug’s dad, never start. But, if you David, joined with other community get them started and members to put the land into a refuge they like it, it will be a and form the Wall Lake Hunting Club. sport they enjoy the rest Like his dad, Doug is an active of their lives.” member. More than a social club, the ~ Doug Edwards Wall Lake Hunting Club raises funds each year to sponsor hunter safety courses, as well as youth hunting and fishing tournaments.

All youth who complete the annual hunter safety course, which is sponsored at no cost through the Wall Lake Hunting Club, are invited to the Annual Wall Lake Youth Hunt.

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WWW.SDFU.ORG

UNION FARMER Vedvei Family Continued from Page 3 same time building up their herd of registered Charolais.

Although the herd bloodlines were initially Wienk Charolais genetics, over the years Vedvei Charolais genetics have evolved and established their own base of loyal customers.

“We have chosen to sell our bulls by private treaty. We feel we get to know our customers and their needs better this way.

However, we have sold females by video auction,” Al said.

Along with focusing on economically relevant traits, the Vedveis only keep docile cows. “Anything with a little bit of attitude we get rid of,” says Al. “I’m too old to get hurt and too young to die.”

“And now with the girls helping out,” explains Corrie, “We have no tolerance.”

Vedvei genetics and cattle can be found coast-to-coast, in Canada and Mexico. Semen is sold all over the world. “We have customers from Australia, Mexico, and other countries,” Al says. “Charolais cattle are excellent crossed with English breeds and are mostly used as a terminal cross.”

Over the years, the Vedveis have also implemented conservation practices throughout their land. They’ve planted shelter belts, plant wildlife food plots annually and implemented rotational grazing in their

Corrie Holt takes a break from working cattle to check in with daughters, Hadlee, 9, and Bentlee, 5.

pastures.

“Most pastures are about 20 acres in size; we leave the cattle in there for a week and off for three weeks. The biggest thing we focus on is keeping new vegetative growth going

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4-H member, Hadlee Holt, with her show heifer.

at all times so we don’t stunt or hurt the grass,” Al explains.

Family, 4-H, FFA & Lake Preston Watching the family work cattle on a remarkably cool August day, it’s clear that this family enjoys spending time together. And that goes for extended family as well. Deb’s

parents, Arnold and Carol Wienk, live only 1 mile from their farm and two of Deb’s sisters live close by.

Every Sunday, from Memorial Day until the start of State Fair, everyone who can gathers on Lake Poinsett at a lake cabin Deb’s great-grandparents bought in the 1950s.

“We will have anywhere from 20 to 40 family members show up, so it’s bring something to grill and a dish to pass,” explains Deb. “I grew up with my cousins – we had built in friends before we even started school,” Corrie explains. “I loved it - I still do.”

UNION FARMER

Hadlee, 9, & Bentlee, 5, Holt

The family also gets together with Al’s side of the family when possible. We spent many summer days on the river in Pierre water skiing and tubing with those cousins as well.

Giving back to the Lake Preston community, as well as the greater community found within the Charolais breed association and South Dakota’s agriculture industry, is as much a part of daily life for the Vedvei and Holt family as chores.

“When I was growing up, so many people and local businesses supported me,” says Al, who served as the 1976-1977 State FFA

Cambree Holt, 1, watches her big sister, Hadlee, show during the local 4-H Achievement Days.

President and has served as President of the American International Charolais Association.

Al was appointed by Governors Rounds

Vedvei Family Continued on Page 17 SEPTEMBER 2016

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UNION FARMER S.D. Farmers Union is Disappointed in Lack of Support for Hurting Dairy Farmers

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outh Dakota Farmers Union President, Doug Sombke, is disappointed in the 2016 Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy) and its inability to provide a safety net for dairy producers in a current commodity crisis.

“Congress needs to act quickly to fix what is wrong with the Margin Protection Program for Dairy – similar to how they reacted to the cotton industry crisis earlier this spring,” said Doug Sombke, a fourthgeneration Conde farmer. “After talking with South Dakota dairy farmers, many will not even receive $200 from this disaster payment.”

As of June 2016, average dairy margins across the nation are below $6 per hundred gallons of milk. “Basically this means for every 100 pounds of milk a dairy producer sells, he’s pocketing less than $6. This is sickening,” Sombke explained.

Although dairy producers can sign up for federally funded price protection insurance through the USDA, the current insurance as provided through the 2014 farm bill isn’t working.

Sombke explains that in order for an insurance program to truly protect family dairy farmers, it needs to be designed somewhere near a 50 percent loss ratio.

However, the current 2016 Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy) is closer to a 20 percent loss ratio.

“Something is off kilter with this insurance coverage and South Dakota Farmers Union has joined with the National Farmers Union to pinpoint the problem,” he said.

In fact, National Farmers Union staff, its state leaders, like Sombke, and family dairy farmers, have been visiting with USDA leadership, as well as Congressional representatives, to work on a fix. Currently two South Dakota family dairy farmers and Farmers Union members, Mike Frey and Mike Tornberg, are part of the National Farmers Union committee developed to research the issue.

“The $11.2 million is not going to help family dairy farmers who need a more permanent fix,” Sombke said, adding that in addition to low commodity prices, the current drought has South Dakota dairy producers dealing with additional expenses

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– which will lead to further decreased margins.

“Forage costs are beginning to climb due to this drought and dairies, like all livestock operations, rely heavily on quality forages,” Sombke said.

Sombke’s comments are in response to an August 4, 2016, article released by the USDA. Below is a copy of the August 4 release titled, “USDA Announces Safety Net Assistance for Milk Producers Due to Tightening Dairy Margins.”

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced approximately $11.2 million in financial assistance to American dairy producers. The payment rate for May/June 2016 will be the largest since the program began in 2014. The narrowing margin between milk prices and the cost of feed triggered the payments, as provided for by the 2014 Farm Bill.

"We understand the nation's dairy producers are experiencing challenges due to market conditions," said Vilsack. "MPPDairy payments are part of a robust, comprehensive farm safety net that help to provide dairy producing families with greater peace of mind during tough times.

Dairy operations enrolled in the 2016 MPPDairy program will receive approximately $11.2 million this month. I want to urge dairy producers to use this opportunity to evaluate their enrollment options for 2017, as the enrollment period is currently scheduled to end Sept. 30, 2016. By supporting a strong farm safety net, expanding credit options and growing domestic and foreign markets, USDA is committed to helping America's dairy operations remain successful."

Dairy producers who enrolled at the $6 through $8 margin trigger coverage level will receive payments. MPP-Dairy payments are triggered when the national average margin (the difference between the price of milk and the cost of feed) falls below a level of coverage selected by the dairy producer, ranging from $4 to $8, for a specified consecutive two-month period. All final USDA prices for milk and feed components required to determine the national average margin for May/June 2016 were released on July 29, 2016.

UNION FARMER

The national average margin for the May/June 2016 two-month consecutive period is $5.76277 per hundred weight (cwt.), resulting in the following MPP payment rates: Margin Trigger Coverage Levels Payment Rate/cwt. $6.00 $0.23723 $6.50 $0.73723 $7.00 $1.23723 $7.50 $1.73723 $8.00 $2.23723 State specific payment amounts can be found at www.fsa.usda.gov/dairy.

Since 2009, USDA has worked to strengthen and support American agriculture, an industry that supports one in 11 American jobs, provides American consumers with more than 80 percent of the food we consume, ensures that Americans spend less of their paychecks at the grocery store than most people in other countries, and supports markets for homegrown renewable energy and materials. USDA has also provided $5.6 billion in disaster relief to farmers and ranchers, expanded risk management tools with products like Whole Farm Revenue Protection, and helped farm businesses grow with $36 billion in farm credit. The Department has engaged its resources to support a strong next generation of farmers and ranchers by improving access to land and capital, building new markets and market opportunities, and extending new conservation opportunities. USDA has developed new markets for rural-made products, including more than 2,500 biobased products through USDA's BioPreferred program, and invested $64 billion in infrastructure and community facilities to help improve the quality of life in rural America. For more information, visit www.usda.gov/results.

To learn more about the Margin Protection Program for Dairy, visit the Farm Service Agency (FSA) online at www.fsa.usda.gov/dairy or stop by a local FSA office.

Producers may visit www.fsa.usda.gov/mpptool to calculate the best levels of coverage for their dairy operation. To find an FSA office near you, visit http://offices.usda.gov.

WWW.SDFU.ORG

UNION FARMER Vedvei Family Continued from Page 15 and Daugaard to serve on the South Dakota Conservation Commission. He is currently a Director for East River Electric, has served on the Kingsbury Electric board for 16 years and is finishing out his third year as a board member for Prairie Ag Cooperative. Al has served on the Kingsbury County Conservation District, and he is a founding member of the Lake Preston Higher Education Foundation.

Launched in 1999, the Lake Preston Higher Education Foundation provides scholarships to all Lake Preston graduates. The scholarship dollars are given when the students start their second year of post-high school education.

“We started with nothing but an idea. Our first scholarships were $50 book grants.

This year, every student who graduates from Lake Preston High School will receive a $1,000 scholarship – it doesn’t matter what their GPA is or what they were involved in – and we don’t make them write an essay,” Al explains. “We’ve found that this is a good investment, as many of those youth have returned to the community or have been eager to give back to the Foundation.”

As a teen, Deb was a member of the American International Junior Charolais Association, the same organization that Corrie and DJ served served as officers for. Today, Deb serves as Treasurer of the South Dakota Charolais Breeders Association – an office she has held for 33 years.

Together, Al, DJ and Corrie referee area junior high basketball games.

“We all enjoy working with the kids and love the game. While being the referee, we can still help teach these kids sportsmanship, teamwork and help build their confidence,” Corrie says.

“Being involved is just something we’ve always done. When we were young we learned a lot of life lessons from 4-H and sports involvement and it taught our kids responsibility,” Deb says. “It really broadened Al and my horizons and it did the same for our girls.”

To view more photos of the Vedvei farm family, visit www.sdfu .org.

WWW.SDFU.ORG

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UNION FARMER Counselor Meeting Continued from Page 5 that a bill similar to SB 131 should be brought back in the 2017 session and should receive support from both the legislature and the Governor. Also in the Special Order of Business was mention of SDFU’s long history of support of conservation practices and efforts to protect SD’s resources.

Premium E30 The passionate fire in support of Premium E30 was reignited at County Counselors with another Special Order of Business promoting

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the use of Premium E30. In the Special Order of Business, members outlined the numerous reasons to use the homegrown premium fuel.

Members also made an addition to the policy program to urge legislation at all levels of government to require government fleets to run Premium E30 in standard vehicles, E85 in flex fuel vehicles and soy diesel in diesel vehicles.

Payday loans SDFU members voted to suggest a change

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to the policy program adding in a section supporting state legislation that addressed excessive interest rates on payday loans.

Genetically Modified Organisms Currently a hot button issue, genetically modified organisms were addressed in the SDFU policy programs. Members supported an addition that stated that the rights of all producers should be respected in regards to the discussion on GMOS. Specifically, members stated that no producer should be discriminated against based on their farming practices.

Agricultural Data Agricultural data has been a topic of growing concern for the SDFU membership and was addressed in the policy discussion.

Members suggested to the body an addition to policy outlining the need for protection of a producer’s right to their personal ag data.

The addition to policy urged SDFU to work with cooperatives in order to preserve and protect the data that is generated and gathered through work done by SD’s farmers and ranchers.

WWW.SDFU.ORG

UNION FARMER

Get to Know ...

Get to Know ...

I

rowing up, Brian Hansen's dad, Darrell, sold all lines of insurance. In 2001, when Brian moved back from Nebraska and Brendon graduated from college, Darrell and the two boys got the idea that dad would come out of semi-retirement to show the brothers the ropes in the insurance industry.

The three men ran a Farmers Union Agency in Irene together for almost 10 years.

Brian Hanson "I love working in this industry because you get to help people," says Brian, referencing the 2012 drought. "Years ago, there was not the kind of crop insurance like we have today; if a drought like that happened, many farmers may have gone bankrupt, but thanks to crop insurance, my customers were still farming the next year.

When Darrell decided it was time to retire for good, the brothers made the decision to specialize on their own lines of insurance. Brian sells crop insurance, health, life, LTC and annuities while Brendon focuses on farm, home, auto and life.

"This way we aren't competing with one another for clients and we can refer our clients to someone we trust for anything we don't carry," Brian explains.

Brian is a Farmers Union agent because of the family feel. "Attend any of our meetings and it feels like one big, close knit family. If we as agents ever have a question, we can always call another Farmers Union agent for help." He adds that although you work long hours, he appreciates the ability he has to focus on his family through his work as a Farmers Union agent.

"My three grown children live within 10 minutes of me, so some afternoons I will take a break and go play with my grandkids and then go back out to visit with customers after supper," he explains.

You can contact Brian by phone at 605-661-6488 or email Bh1217@hotmail.com.

Get to Know Farmers Union Insurance Agent Ce Faulkner n a blink of an eye, life as you know it can change. That’s what happened to Ce Faulkner.

“In 1989 I was in a car accident. I really learned the value of insurance and making sure you and your family are protected – in an instant you can lose everything,” explains the Farmers Union Insurance Agent who services customers throughout the Northern Black Hills.

It was a head-on collision 4 days before Ce Faulkner Christmas. Ce’s three sons were 12 and younger. Her husband was a farmer. She was in the hospital for 10 days and didn’t return to work until the following April.

“Luckily for me and my family, I had the right medical coverage to take care of me – all in all I paid $21,” says Ce of the experience which continues to motivate her 27 years later as a Farmers Union Insurance Agent to make sure her customers have the coverage they need to weather all of life’s unknown risks.

Every time she meets with her clients she brings their portfolio of current products and introduces them to any products they may need to better manage risk. One reason she enjoys working with Farmers Union is the fact that she is able to develop customized coverage plans for her clients. “As independent agents we are not held captive to any one line of products. I have the ability to work with the carrier that makes the best sense for my client.”

Working in the insurance industry for 35 years now, Ce says she continues to enjoy the work she does because it helps people she cares about. “I enjoy working with my clients and making sure they have the proper coverage for whatever stage of life they are in.”

You can contact Ce by phone at 605-737-0463 or email ce.farmersunion@gmail.com.

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Get to Know Farmers Union Insurance Agent Brian Hanson

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WAYS TO CONNECT WITH US

Like us for updates, photos news, and so much more. https://www.facebook.com/ South-Dakota-Farmers-Union-277721538812/

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Follow us for photos taken around the state and #FlashbackFriday. https://twitter.com/farmersunion

View videos at the South Dakota Farmers Union Channel.

https://www.youtube.com/user/sdfarmersunion mail to: sdfu@sdfu.org

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SEPTEMBER 2016

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UNION FARMER Roger Johnson

National Farmers Union President

A

merican family farmers and ranchers are experiencing the worst farm economy in more than a decade. As the trend is forecasted to continue for low commodity prices and high cost of production, NFU is calling on Congress for immediate action to ensure family producers can stay on the land and provide for the country. NFU is also ramping up efforts to provide dairy farmers with immediate assistance through the USDA, as well as convening emergency dairy committee meetings to address issues with the current dairy safety net. NFU and Food and Water Watch are calling on the U.S. committee reviewing the ChemChina acquisition of Syngenta to block the proposed merger.

Farmers, Ranchers Need Immediate Assistance to Deal with economy woes The heartland is hurting! American farmers are the best in the world - but their livelihoods are at the mercy of market fluctuations and Mother Nature. As it stands now, the economic reality in rural America is a ticking time bomb. Congress cannot stand by and watch an entire generation of farmers be wiped out as a result of rock bottom commodity prices, rising inputs and an inability to access affordable credit.

Farmers across the country are faced with the third consecutive year of lower net farm income. Meanwhile, input costs remain high. No other sector of the American economy faces such continuous instability and farmers who grow the nation’s food are at risk.

Net farm income for 2016 is forecast to be $54.8 billion. That’s more than 50% lower than 2013 and $4.2 billion lower than it was in 1996!

Input costs remain high despite a drastic decline in commodity prices. In fact, total farm production expenditures were 4% higher last year than in 2011, 2012 and 2013, while many commodity prices have fallen 40% or more since that same time period.

The economic crisis has limited access to

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affordable credit to many producers across the country. USDA’s farm loan program, commercial and community banks, and the Farm Credit System are all witnessing increased stress in their loan portfolios. Total farm debt at commercial banks has continued to rise, credit conditions have deteriorated as repayment rates declined, and delinquency rates have increased alongside reduced farm income.

NFU is calling on Congress to: ~ Immediately begin working on the next farm bill to provide a stronger safety net to protect family farmers and ranchers from very low prices. ~ Provide emergency assistance to producers in need. ~ Provide USDA the necessary resources in order to get Title I payments to producers immediately instead of waiting until the end of the commodity marketing year. ~ Increase funding for FSA guaranteed and direct lending programs.

A strong and effective farm safety net is essential to the food security of our nation.

Failing to act now is not an option for America’s family farmers and ranchers.

NFU Opposing the ChemChina-Syngenta Merger ChemChina, a Chinese governmentowned chemical company, proposed to buy Swiss seed and pesticide maker Syngenta earlier this year, drawing scrutiny from NFU over national security and competition issues for American producers. This is just the latest effort in an alarming trend of Chinese government-owned entities acquiring other agriculture companies.

NFU and consumer group Food & Water Watch (FWW) are now urging the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to block the proposed purchase of Syngenta AG by China National Chemical Corporation (ChemChina). In a letter sent to the committee, the two organizations emphasized the need to regard food security as a component of national security, highlighting the dangers

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of a Chinese state-owned enterprise acquiring one of the world’s largest agrichemical and biotechnology seed manufacturers.

The proposed merger of ChemChina and Syngenta would also create a conflict in both approving and manufacturing seeds and agrichemicals, giving the post-merged ChemChina-Syngenta a significant commercial edge in accessing the Chinese market. In 2015, after Shuanghui International Holdings purchased Smithfield Foods, Smithfield controlled nearly all U.S. pork exports to China.

By law, CFIUS is required to review foreign investment transactions to determine if they could result in control of any critical infrastructure that could impair U.S. national security. The U.S. is fortunate in its ability to feed consumers domestically and overseas, but global food insecurity could impact U.S. national security. The proposed ChemChina-Syngenta merger strengthens China’s control of the global food supply and food manufacturing, as well as its capacity to curtail global access to seeds and crop protection technologies. This could potentially disrupt the food security of other countries, including the U.S., the groups explain.

The letter identifies several national security concerns, including the proximity of Syngenta facilities to military installations, concerns about potential safety security risks at Syngenta’s chemical plants and the transfer of critical research and technologies — partially financed by U.S. taxpayers — to a firm owned by the Chinese government.

The organizations requested that CFIUS recognize the unacceptable national security and food security risks, trade implications and competition loss that could result from this cross-border acquisition and reject the proposed ChemChina purchase of Syngenta. The Washington Corner can also be found at www.nfu.org/corner.

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UNION FARMER South Dakota

From the President....

Election Season is Upon Us!

I

t’s that time of year when State Fair is just a week away, school starts and political election season kicks into high gear leading up to Election Day on November 8, 2016.

As we see our seasons change and harvest approaches, as farmers we may begin to think about what did and didn’t work for us this past year.

I’m reminded and somewhat frustrated by our current farm bill and how it has played out for family farmers to date.

However, believe it or not, we are once again preparing to discuss our next farm bill.

This next one will be built under completely different circumstances--low commodity prices which lead to lower farm income.

Commodity prices failing to cover cost of production, plus a return on investment, leads to farm consolidation and will continue until our nation’s abundant, inexpensive food supply is at risk, both from supply and price.

Currently, U.S. citizens spend the lowest percentage of disposable income on food than any country in the world - just under 10 percent since 2001. Low food prices are something that is taken for granted because family farmers and ranchers are so good at what they do.

A farm bill, for all it does for farmers, providing insurance and price support ensuring adequate food production, energy and clothing – basically making it a consumer’s bill as well.

The next farm bill faces several challenges, one of which is being written from a budget perspective only, when it should be from the perspective of supporting food, energy and national security for our country as a whole. It is knowingly written to take advantage of our highly efficient family farmers to adapt to prices below the cost of production. Because of this, the farm bill makes life in rural communities and as a family farmer unsustainable while challenges

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Doug Sombke SDFU President

like global production, weather, huge price swings and currency manipulations are influencing our rural way of life and completely beyond our control.

We have seen more than 50 percent price swings since the last farm bill was written, making for stressful times as a family farmer.

The farm bill needs to be called what it is - a consumer bill. It needs to happen when the next one is written.

This shift in thinking will be in the best interest of the country as a whole, not just for family farmers. We also need to change our price support to reflect cost of production plus a reasonable return on investment while limiting the support levels to each farm. Farmers should not only be paid for what they produce but for their stewardship of the air, water and soil.

Americans are the envy of all other countries around the world for our food production system. We need to be willing to look at better ways to preserve and make it even better if we want to remain the greatest country in the world.

God has so richly blessed our country with abundant natural resources; as famers we have been granted stewardship to oversee. We must invite our consuming cousins to join us to ensure we never lose the most efficient form of feeding mankind, the family farmer!

Listen to Secretary Vilsack’s testimony of the greatness of family farmers in the world. https://youtu.be/KjYVTLOJCxo. God bless all you do!

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, SEPTEMBER, September, October, November and December. Periodical postage paid at Madison, S.D. POSTMASTER: Address changes to: SDFU, PO Box 1388, Huron, S.D. 57350-1388

Contact SDFU • 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 Executive Director Huron Matt Sibley .............ext. 122 Legislative Specialist Huron

Luanne Thompson.......ext. 111 Administrative Assistant Virgil

Pam Evenson ..........ext. 116 Membership Specialist Doland

Rachel Haigh-Blume ....ext. 125 Education Director Tulare

Kecia Beranek.........ext. 113 Communications Specialist Miller

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 ~ Donn Teske, Vice President Doug Peterson, Secretary ~ John Hansen, Treasurer 202.554.1600 www.nfu.org

The South Dakota Union Farmer is published 10 times per calendar year.

Doug Sombke SDFU President

UNION FARMER

Karla Hofhenke, Publisher Lura Roti, Editor ~ Jodie Fenske, Copy Editor Tri-State Graphics, Layout and Design

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: sdfu@sdfu.org

SEPTEMBER 2016

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UNION FARMER Around the State With Farmers Union Read on to learn how South Dakota Farmers Union members and staff are making a difference in rural communities across South Dakota.

Ag Appreciation Day Sioux Empire Fair

4-H Horse Show

Farmers Union helped serve and sponsored several hundreds of farm and ranch families during the Sioux Empire Fair's Ag Appreciation Day.

South Dakota Farmers Union served up 250 Root Beer Floats July 19 during the 4H Horse Show held at the South Dakota State Fair Grounds in Huron.

Pam Evenson, SDFU Membership Specialist, is pictured here.

Summer Spotlight

Amendment T

SDFU Legislative Specialist, Matt Sibley, has been hard at work this summer educating the public on Amendment T and encouraging them to vote YES. Amendment T puts voters back in charge of their elections. Under Amendment T a 9 member committee of voters, all non-legislators, will be in charge of drawing the voting maps. This gets voters involved in their democracy and puts them back in charge.

South Dakota Farmers Union served up 350 Root Beer Floats Friday, July 22 during the Summer Spotlight Show held at the South Dakota Fair Grounds in Huron. SDFU state staff pictured with helper, Kadence Konechne (Karla Hofhenke's granddaughter), include: Rachel Haigh-Blume, Kayla Foreman, Pam Evenson and Kecia Beranek.

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SEPTEMBER 2016

UNION FARMER

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UNION FARMER

Want to Help Pass Amendment T? We are looking for volunteers, donations or requests for barn signs. Contact Matt Sibley, SDFU Legislative Specialist at msibley@sdfu.org or call 605-352-6761 ext: 122 or Karla Hofhenke, SDFU Executive Director at Karla@sdfu.org or call 605-352-6761 ext: 114.

MEMBERSHIP NEWS: Are you celebrating a life event or honoring the life of a Farmers Union member? We’d like to share the news. Please send photos and membership updates, anniversaries, awards, birthdays, birth announcements, obituaries and other updates to SDFU Executive Director, Karla Hofhenke, at PO Box 1388, Huron, SD 57350 or karla@sdfu.org. The date we receive the information will determine in which Union Farmer the information will run.

COOK’S CORNER

Lasagna Stuffed Zucchini Boats Submitted by: Erin Wilcox, Alpena, SD

3 large zucchini 1 c. ricotta cheese ½ tsp. sea salt 1 T. fresh chopped basil or ½ tsp. dried ¼ c. grated Romano or Parmesan cheese

1 egg 1 c. homemade or storebought marinara sauce 1 c. shredded Italian blend cheese ½ lb. spicy Italian sausage, browned

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cut zucchini in half lengthwise, leaving stems intact. Hollow out the zucchini centers to create a hollow for your fillings. Mix the ricotta, sea salt, basil, cheese and egg. Layer the sauce, ricotta filling, Italian cheese and meat until the boat is full. Your number of layers will depend on how large your zucchini are. End your layers with a bit more sauce and top with Italian blend cheese.

Bake in a large casserole dish for 45 minutes or until zucchini is cooked through, but not mushy. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and grated cheese. Note: any cheese can be used in place of Italian blend.

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UNION FARMER

SDFU CLIP AND SAVE CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 1-5 SD State Fair, Huron 3 SDFU Day at SD State Fair, Huron 5 State Office Closed 12-14 Washington D.C. Fly-in, D.C. 17 District II Annual Meeting, Mitchell 27-30 NFU Education Conference, Minn., MN OCTOBER 6-7 Rural Women in Ag, Keystone 10 State Office Closed 12 National Farmers Day NOVEMBER 24-25 State Office Closed DECEMBER 8-9 State Convention, Pierre 26 State Office Closed

SEPTEMBER 2016

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