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Midwest Farm&Ag VOLUME 1 NUMBER 7
Published by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC
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2 • Thursday, January 28, 2016 / Midwest Farm and Ag - Rock Valley Publishing
Beyond Your Back Yard By Emily Hanlin Ag Communications and Administrative Assistant Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau
We make room for everyone at the table during the holiday season; Aunts and Uncles, Grandmas and Grandpas, the young, the old, the rich, the poor, but what about the fat? Not the relatives, but the white or yellowish greasy substance kind, of course! The kind that is insoluble in water or cold alcohol but soluble in ether, chloroform, or benzene and used in the making of soap, paints, and other protective coatings and in cooking (USDA). Fats may be more complicated than we realize. For years, many of us have thought that eating fat is what makes us fat. However, that might no longer be the case. You see there are options when talking about what kind of fats you should consume in your diet. When it comes down to it, there are pros and cons to all options. Are corn, soy, and other veg-
etable oils really better than butter and lard? Well, maybe not! It might be time to forget the idea that low fat is the best option. It could be time to stop avoiding foods rich in cholesterol and saturated fats. According to the USDA, omega 3 and omega 6 are “types of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Linolenic acid, the shortest chain omega 3 fatty acid, and linoleic acid, the shortest chain omega 6 fatty acid, are essential fatty acids. This means they cannot be synthesized by the body from other fatty acids and must be obtained from food.” Since these are such essential fatty acids that are found in products such as butter and lard, food experts may be changing their mind about how much of these foods you should consume. However, that is not to say that we should throw out those corn, soy and vegetable oil. Like I said earlier, there is room for all fats at the table! According to Samantha Olsonrich at MedicalDaily. com, “Vegetable oils are rich in
linoleic acid, an essential nutrient that can help lower the risk of heart disease.” She claimed that the heart healthy benefits of vegetable oils were confirmed and that researchers suggest up to four tablespoons of vegetable oil a day. Olive oil seems to be a fat that stands alone. According to Mayo Clinic, olive oils are full of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). MUFAs are actually considered a healthy dietary fat. If your diet replaces saturated and trans fats with unsaturated fats such as MUFAs and polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), you may gain certain health benefits. MUFAs and PUFAs may help lower your risk of heart disease by improving related risk factors. There are different benefits accompanied with different kinds of fat. However, none seem to outshine the other, they are just that: different. Therefore, all those fatty acids will Courtesy photo have a spot at my table this Christmas . . . in moderation of A large percentage of vegetable oil is made up of soybean product. course!
Spotlight on farmer’s market business By Emily Hanlin Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau
Stan Johnson, of Poplar Grove, is no stranger to working in the field. Johnson grew up helping his father in the garden and to this day, he still grows and sells the vegetables he raises on his two-acre farm at farmers’ markets in Belvidere and Edgebrook. “Farmers’ markets are my social life,” Johnson said. “All I live for is to see those people every week.” Johnson takes pride in raising vegetables that he and his family, and other families across northern Illinois, can enjoy. Johnson’s family is involved in the vegetable business as well, with daughter, Julie, and son-in-law, Al, working on the farm and Johnson’s grandchildren helping during planting and harvesting. “My grandchildren are really good at the farmers’ markets,” Johnson said. “They have been helping me for five years. They love the people, they always smile, and the people love them, too. Some of them come up just to see their curly hair,” Johnson said. Besides the common vegetables like tomatoes and pep-
pers, Johnson grows strawberries, basil, garlic, dry onions, asparagus, zucchini, autumn raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, winter squash, carrots, sweet corn, and designer pumpkins and gourds. He also added fruit trees, including apples and pears, to his growing farm. “When I moved here we tore out an old orchard and now we have a brand new one,” Johnson said. Johnson also has added high tunnels to his farm to help extend the growing season and allow him to offer vegetables to his customers in the offseason. Additionally, the high tunnels offer better quality produce coupled with higher yields, and protects crops from wind and temperature swings. Johnson and his family are dedicated to producing premiere quality vegetables that all families can enjoy. Stan’s Gourmet Vegetables can be preordered over the phone at (815) 765-3140 or can be picked up at the Edgebrook Farmers Market or the Belvidere Farmers Market in The Johnson grandchildren helping out at a Farmer’s Market. the summer months.
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Midwest Farm and Ag - Rock Valley Publishing / Thursday, January 28, 2016 • 3
Tree farming: owner explains processes of unique crop bills. We have been in the tree business ever since” Christmas tree production has been the focus for decades. The farm ships trees to local areas as well as locations in the suburbs of Chicago. However, as customers began to want more of an experience while picking out their tree, Williams Tree Farm led the industry in becoming a choose and cut farm. Now more than ever, making memories is what they are all about. Even though many consumers see the tree farm as a fun family experience, it is just that: a farm. “The difference between row crop farming and Christmas tree farming is Christmas trees are all manual labor,” said Williams, “It is not very mechanized at all. The most mechanization we have is a skid-steer.” Tree farming differs from traditional farming in other ways as well. For instance, you can plant and harvest the same crop of corn in one year. As for trees, “The quickest you can get them to produce is seven to eight years for a standard size Christmas tree,” said Williams, “A lot can happen in those years out in the field.” Williams Tree farm offers both precut as well as cut your own trees from varieties such as Fraser Fir, Canaan Fir, Bal-
sam Fir, Colorado Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, Scotch Pine, and White Pine. They have a large selection of wreaths from 18 inches in diameter thru 8 foot and have many specialty greens, square wreaths, candy canes, crosses and other shapes as well as garland, and cemetery items. “Christmas tree farming is pretty glamorous during December,” said Williams. “However, the rest of the year is pretty much filled with work also.” As soon as the weather permits, the Williams’ will prepare the field for planting and removing the stumps. Then, they begin the planting process and when the trees are large enough, the Williams’ will shape and prune the trees. All year long, the Williams’ are taking action to prevent against diseases and other factors that can harm their trees. There are many enemies to a seedling as well as young tree, including drought. “I was pretty excited this year when I saw the mild temperatures,” said Williams. The mid-fifties doesn’t seem like the kind of weather we think about when it comes to Christmas trees, but according to Williams, this is perfect weather for your tree to thrive in. “One big enemy to a cut
Christmas tree is the dry heat from furnaces,” said Williams. So, in reality, this moisture and high humidity we have been seeing this winter can help your cut Christmas tree stay fresher, longer. Therefore, keeping your tree away from heat sources and allowing your tree to rehydrate will keep it lasting longer. According to Williams, “When your cut tree does dry out, it is safer to not use lights, the Christmas lights are what cause the fires.” Williams claims that firefighters have told him that the majority of Christmas tree fires actually happen after Christmas because consumers tend to not think about it as much, it is still really important to keep your tree hydrated and be cautious of the light you are using. Down on the farm, the Christmas tree farm that is, there are many, many activities to partake in. Hop on a horse drawn wagon, take time for a walk and enjoy the evergreen trees, warm yourself by their new outside fire pits, visit the animals, get lost in the maze, or take a pony or kiddie train ride, and that’s just outside! Inside, you can shop around the gift shop, view the precut trees displayed indoors, grab a bite to eat at the Cabin Café, get your hands on some delicious homemade fudge at the Candy Corner, pick up some wreaths, roping, and more at the Greens Department, take a walk through the Blizzard if you dare, and of course double check that you made the nicelist when you visit Santa on the weekends.
The experience at William’s Tree Farm is not complete without a visit from the Tree Farm Goldens. For over 20 years the family has had golden retrievers at the farm. At first it was one, and then it was two, now it is seven. “Each has his or her own personality and they take their public relations job very seriously. They will ride the wagon with you or walk the farm with you,” said Don Williams, owner of Williams Tree Farm. The Farm now has a different colored dog running around, a Bernese Mountain dog puppy. The William’s breed their dogs and so sometimes, puppies are available for cuddling. Don Williams, who currently owns and operates the farm in partnership with his wife and four sons, brother, and sister, truly enjoys interacting with his customers, “We enjoy the selling season,” Williams said. “Other tree farms are really good at growing and don’t necessarily like the selling part, we at Williams Tree Farm enjoy helping people make their Christmas tree shopping an enjoyable experience. Being a tree farmer is not as easy as it looks, but we are growing these trees for our customers. If they didn’t enjoy it, we wouldn’t do it.” Williams Tree Farm is now closed for the season. On behalf of the entire Williams family, “Thank you to all who support our local business. We truly appreciate our customers.” To find out more information about Williams Tree Farm visit www.williamstreefarm.com
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Family owned and operated for over 60 years, Williams Tree Farm is a must for locals this time of the year. Carlton and Amelia Williams and their son Wayne, purchased the farm in 1940. They initially ran the farm as a dairy and hog setup, lumber was harvested from the farm and was used at what once was The Wagon Wheel, a momentous resort in Rockton. To make up for the trees that were harvested, new seedlings were planted in their place. One year, a winter storm led to a short supply of Christmas trees. The saplings that were planted were harvested to meet that demand, and just like that, a new business was born! “The story goes that grandfather (Carlton Williams) was gone and there was a big snow storm up north,” said Williams, “everyone in the area knew that there were trees here and they wanted to purchase them for Christmas. So one tree led to two and then another and so on. “Eventually, Dad (Wayne Williams) had a problem; how was he going to tell his father that he cut down all of these trees? So he took the dollar bills and put them in a grocery sack and dumped them on grandfather’s desk. It’s said that he never even looked up; he just started counting dollar
We listen to you. We counsel for you. We fight for you. Courtesy photo
Don Williams prunes a live tree on the farm.
Williams Tree Farm also has a gift shop and café.
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4 • Thursday, January 28, 2016 / Midwest Farm and Ag - Rock Valley Publishing
Ethanol production, corn consumption prospects for 2016 URBANA, Ill. — Estimates from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicate that U.S. production of fuel ethanol totaled 14.313 billion gallons during the 2014 calendar year. That quantity is 1.02 billion gallons more than produced in 2013 and about 384 million gallons more than the previous record production in 2011. University of Illinois agricultural economist Darrel Good provided the analysis of ethanol production and corn consumption prospects for 2016 that follows. For the first nine months of 2015, EIA monthly estimates indicate that domestic ethanol production was 3.6 percent larger than during the same period in 2014. Weekly EIA estimates indicate that ethanol production in October and November this year exceeded that of a year ago by 3.1 percent. Production in December is expected to be slightly smaller than the record monthly production of 1.295 billion gallons in December 2014. For the year, ethanol production will likely be at least 3 percent larger than in 2014, reaching about 14.745 billion gallons. Production at that level will require about 5.25 billion bushels of feedstock, mostly corn, for conventional ethanol production in 2015. Estimates of domestic ethanol consumption are based on EIA estimates of the volume of fuel ethanol production, imports, exports, and changes in domestic stock levels. Consumption was a record 13.444 billion gallons in 2014. Of that total, about 13.353 billion gallons was conventional ethanol made almost entirely from corn. Consumption during the first nine months of 2015 was 4 percent larger than dur-
ing the same period last year. Consumption for the year is on pace to reach 13.982 billion gallons, with about 13.897 billion gallons being conventional ethanol. Domestic ethanol consumption during the year ahead will be influenced by two related factors. The first follows from the biofuels volume requirements in the EPA final rulemaking for 2014-2016 RFS standards released on Nov. 30. Those standards require 18.11 billion gallons of biofuels consumption in 2016, 1.18 billion more than required in 2015 and 710 million gallons more than in the preliminary rulemaking released in May. The requirement for advanced biofuels was set at 3.61 billion gallons, 730 million more than the 2015 requirement and 380 million more than was required in the preliminary rulemaking. The difference between the total and the advanced requirement is the implied requirement for conventional biofuel (ethanol). The conventional requirement is referred to as an implied requirement because it can also be satisfied with discretionary blending of advanced biofuels. That implied requirement is at 14.5 billion gallons for 2016, up from 14.05 billion gallons in 2015 and 14.0 billion gallons in the preliminary rulemaking for 2016. The second and related factor that will influence domestic ethanol consumption is the expected level of domestic gasoline consumption because the blending requirements are actually enforced as a fraction of gasoline consumption. Based on EIA projections, consumption is expected to increase from 139.38 billion gallons in 2015 to 139.96 billion gallons in 2016. That expected
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In addition to E-10, however, some ethanol will be consumed in higher blends, mostly E-85. The EPA has projected E-85 consumption in 2016 at 400 million gallons. That would be equivalent to 296 million gallons of ethanol, assuming an average blend of 74 percent ethanol. Total consumption of conventional ethanol would be projected at 13.903 billion gallons, essentially the same as consumed in 2015. The difference between the RFS requirement of 14.5 billion gallons and the projected consumption of 13.903 billion gallons (597 million gallons) would have to be met with some combination of retirement of RINs stocks, additional quantities of E-85, or blending of additional quantities of advanced biofuels. If ethanol exports in 2016 are near the level of 2015 and there is no change in the level of ethanol stocks in 2016, the projected level of domestic consumption of conventional ethanol in 2016 points to about the same requirement for conventional ethanol feedstock (mostly corn) in 2016 as in 2015. This outcome is very different from the initial reaction that an increase in the implied conventional ethanol requirement from the preliminary to final rulemaking for 2016 of 500
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million gallons would result in a measurable increase in feedstock consumption. The projected level of domestic conventional ethanol consumption in 2016 developed here could be conservative for two reasons. First, the projection of domestic gasoline consumption appears conservative. A more plausible scenario with continued low gasoline prices might be for gasoline consumption to be about two billion gallons larger than the current EIA projection. Second, the projection of ethanol imports may be too aggressive, depending on how California fuel policy unfolds. On the other hand, the EPA projection of E-85 consumption in 2016 may be a bit too high. Domestic conventional ethanol consumption in 2016 could be about 200 million gallons larger than projected, requiring an additional 70 million bushels of feedstock. Still, feedstock consumption would be only slightly larger than in 2015. A larger increase in feedstock consumption will require some combination of a larger increase in domestic gasoline consumption, larger consumption of higher ethanol blends, and an increase in ethanol exports.
Farmers receiving USDA ag resource survey USDA uses information obtained from the survey to estimate net farm income, agricultural productivity and the cost of production of 15 commodities including corn, soybeans, cattle and hogs. About 1,800 Illinois farmers can expect to find USDA’s annual Agricultural Resource Management Survey (ARMS) in their mailboxes this month. USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) conducts the survey to understand the financial condition, production practices and resource use of America’s farm businesses and the economic
well-being of America’s farm households. As is the case with all NASS surveys, information provided by respondents remains confidential by law. NASS safeguards the privacy of all responses and publishes only state and national level data, ensuring that no individual producer or operation can be identified. USDA uses information obtained from the survey to estimate net farm income, agricultural productivity and the cost of production of 15 commodities including corn, soybeans, cattle and hogs.
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increase of 580 million gallons follows an expected increase of 2.9 billion gallons in 2015. The conventional ethanol mandate of 14.5 billion gallons reflects an expected small increase in the E-10 blend wall and a “push” to include larger quantities of higher ethanol blends (E-15 and E-85) in the domestic fuel supply. If the 2016 gasoline consumption forecast is correct, the E-10 blend wall will be 13.996 billion gallons. Because some gasoline is consumed without ethanol and some with higher ethanol blends, the effective E-10 blend wall is thought to be 13.856 billion gallons (9.9 percent of gasoline consumption). A portion of the 13.856 billion gallons will be provided in the form of advanced ethanol, including cellulosic, but mostly imported Brazilian ethanol. The EPA projects consumption of advanced ethanol in 2015 at only 85 million gallons. We estimate that about 70 million gallons of that total will be Brazilian ethanol. That consumption is projected to increase to 249 million gallons in 2016 based on much larger imports of Brazilian ethanol in response to changing fuel standards in California. That would leave the conventional ethanol E-10 blend wall at 13.607 billion gallons.
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“Without good data, you can’t make good policy nor can you measure with any reliability whether farm policy is actually working,” said Mike Doherty, Illinois Farm Bureau senior economist and policy analyst. “Commodity prices are projected to remain low. That means it’s even more important that farm programs accomplish what they’re intended to do. Illinois Farm Bureau’s ability to defend those programs rests on having credible farm-level financial statistics at hand.” NASS will publish results from the ARMS survey on Aug. 4 in the Production Expenditures report. Reports like ARMS help ensure federal, state, local and industry decision makers have accurate and objective information, and all decisions affecting farmers and their families across the United States are based on facts. View NASS reports online at www.nass.usda.gov. For more information, call the NASS Illinois Field Office at 800-5511014.
Midwest Farm and Ag - Rock Valley Publishing / Thursday, January 28, 2016 • 5
Country Chronicle: Farm Bureau activities this winter Meat raffle tickets available You could be a winner of a quarter of beef or half a hog, but only if you have your raffle tickets! The Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau Young Leaders are selling raffle tickets to raise funds to help out the Rock River Valley Food Pantry. The Young Leaders will raffle off two quarter sides of beef and two half hogs at
the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau’s 96th Annual Meeting on March 15, 2016. (You need not be present to win.) Tickets are available now at the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau office located at 1925 S Meridian Road, Rockford, IL. (Tickets are limited and all proceeds will benefit the Rock River Valley Food Pantry.) Stop in today and pick up your tickets. Scholarships available The Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau® Founda-
tion is offering scholarships for students of Farm Bureau members wanting to pursue a degree in a field of agriculture. The applications are available at the Farm Bureau office located at 1925 S Meridian Road, Rockford. To qualify, the Farm Bureau membership must have been active for a year. The student must be pursuing an agricultural related degree. The student may receive the scholarship up to a maximum of four years. For more information on
Florida’s citrus industry diminishing due to ‘citrus greening’
Every winter, the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau provides a citrus program for its members. They offer a variety of fruits including navel oranges, grapefruits, and tangelos. The fruit can be ordered in full or half box sizes and makes the long trip up to northern Illinois from the citrus-bearing groves of Florida. While the Winnebago-Bone Farm Bureau Citrus Program is over for the 2015 year, there is fear that Florida’s orange industry is in its worst plummet in over 100 years. According to Bloomberg Business, “Florida’s signature fruit harvest could fall from 149.8 million boxes in 2005 to 27 million boxes by 2026.” A report by the Florida Department of Citrus on Oct. 21 stated that this 82 percent drop is due to the bacterium that causes Huanglongbing, better known as citrus greening, which was found in southern Florida in 2005. This disease is spread by the Asian citrus psyllid and there’s currently no known cure. The Asian citrus psyllid has earned the nickname, “the little monster” by Les Dunson, a 53-year-old farmer in Winter Haven, Fla. Dunson claims that the tiny winged insect has been more deadly than hurricanes. Dunson is the president of Dunson Harvesting Inc., which has been in business since the 1950s, and currently farms about 2,000 acres of citrus trees. According to Bloomberg Business’s telephone interview with Dunson, “His output has fallen to about 600,000 boxes from 1 million
a decade ago, even though he’s increased his annual pesticide use and feeds his groves with more nutrients to help productivity.” While the disease is killing crops in other areas, such as Brazil, the world’s top orange growing country, it has done the most harm in Florida. Florida’s citrus groves have already decreased, “because of urban sprawl and hurricane damage, to 501,396 acres, the lowest in 50 years” according to Bloomberg Business. The University of Florida estimates that “greening is the reason for the industry-wide losses of $7.8 billion and more than 7,500 jobs between 2006 to 2014.” The aggressive psyllid first appeared in Florida in June 1998 and is now recognized throughout the state’s entire citrus-growing region. It nourishes on the sap of tree leaves and can transport the bacterium that causes greening over a mile without stopping. What does this mean for the fruit that is produced? The bacterium blocks the route nutrients take from tree’s vascular system. The leaves that the trees produce then have yellowing veins, yellowgreen mottling and sometimes no green coloring at all. The
yellowing spreads throughout the tree. This causes fruit to drop prematurely and can contain terminated seeds or have a salty, unpleasant taste. When it comes to agriculture, there are many aspects that are out of a farmer’s control. Florida farmers are doing their best to take care of this situation. Extreme measures are being put in place to stop “the little monster” in its tracks. Finding a permanent solution is difficult, however, there’s hope for Florida’s signature fruits, as scientists pursue all possible options. Short-term fixes that are currently in place according to Robert G. Shatters Jr., a research molecular biologist for the USDA Horticultural Research Laboratory in Fort Pierce, Fla. include “killing the bacterium with heat. This will provide a window of opportunity for the growers to remain productive while more mid-term and long-term solutions come down the road.” American farmers do their best to continue supplying their consumers with the safest, most efficient, and most reasonably priced food supply in the world. However, every once in a while, Mother Nature has a different idea.
eligibility and application deadlines, contact the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau, located at 1925 S Meridian Road., Rockford, IL, by phone at (815) 962-0653 or by email wbfbmabager@live. com with any questions or to request applications. Applications are also available online at http://winnebagoboonefarmbureau.org under Scholarship & Internships. Visit the website for more scholarship opportunities.
Chicago Auto Show Wednesday, Feb. 17 Join us at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show on Wednesday, Feb. 17. The bus will be departing from the Farm Bureau rear parking lot (located at 1925 South Meridian Road, Rockford) at 8 a.m. and the CherryVale Mall overflow parking at 8:20 a.m. The cost will include your transportation and a ticket to the show. Lunch will be on your own. Seats are on a first come, first serve basis and go quickly.
2016 N IL Farm Bureau Bowling TournamentSaturday, Jan. 30 The 2016 N IL Farm Bureau Bowling Tournament will begin with registration at 1 p.m. and the tournament will begin at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 30 at the Forest Hills Lanes in Rockford, IL. The tournament will consist of the following men and women divisions: under 12 with bumpers; under 12 without bumpers; Young Adult 12-18; Young Adult 19-35; Adult 36-54; Senior 55-64; and Senior 65+. Awards will be presented for high score individual in each division as well as high score in the Child (under 12) and Adult (12+) divisions. Reservations are due to the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau Office by Wednesday, Jan. 27. The cost per bowler will be $14 (children under twelve will be $12) with free shoe rental. (The registration fee will be collected at the bowling alley.) Registration forms are available at the office or at www.winnebagoboonefarmbureau.org
Circa 21 presents “The Phantom” Wednesday, Feb. 24 Join us as we travel to Circa 21 for a delicious lunch and a stunning production of The Phantom. “The mesmerizing PHANTOM is a sensation that enraptures with beautiful songs and characters more richly developed than in any other version, including the original novel. The story traces the obsession of the disfigured composer who falls in love with his protégé only to be undone by his passion. (A theatrical rendition of Gaston Leroux’s classic novel.) The bus will leave from the Farm Bureau building located at 1925 S. Meridian Road, Rockford at 9 a.m., and pick up at the Cherryvale Mall overflow parking lot at 9:15 a.m. The cost includes the cost of motor coach transportation, lunch with dessert, and the show. Our estimated return time is 6:30 p.m. at the Cherryvale Mall and 7 p.m. at the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau. Registrations are due by Friday, Jan. 22.
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6 • Thursday, January 28, 2016 / Midwest Farm and Ag - Rock Valley Publishing
4-H project ends up becoming a family wool, fiber business By Emily Hanlin Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau
BELVIDERE — The Illinois Wool and Fiber Mill in Belvidere, Ill. is owned by Jane Zeien and her husband Paul. The family business started out as a small 4-H project for their children, Nathan and Nicole, and that is when the Zeien family’s interest for the fiber process really began, with just two Hampshire Ewes. Since that time, they have expanded and have raised Hampshire, Cheviots, Shet-
lands and now Leicester Longwool and Cotswold sheep. “As we have seen our flock grow we wanted to utilize the wool that we were collecting,” said Jane Zeien, “As time went on we decided that we love the sheep business and want to offer a service that promotes the industry.” Wool and fiber are shipped in from across the country and the process of skirting, washing, drying, picking, carding, pin drafting, dying, blending, and eventually spinning begins.
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This process makes it possible for the Illinois Wool and Fiber Mill (ILWFM) to offer yarn and batts from the wool and fiber from various animals to their customers. Four years ago, the ILWFM purchased The Complete Sheep Shoppe and relocated it from Sycamore, Ill. to the farm. “The Sheep Shoppe specializes in wool and sheep skin products from major companies such as UGG, Woolrich, and Minnetonka,” said Zeien. They offer products from slippers and skirts to mittens and socks, all made from sheep wool and fiber. The Zeiens flock is now up to about 35 head of sheep from several different breeds. The varities in the sheep offer variances in fiber. Some fiber dyes easier and some makes better yarn, having a diversity of breeds allows the Zeiens to offer their customers a larger variety of products. “A lot of people come out and look at the sheep,” said Zeien, “so we like to have a variety not only for the different products, but so people can
See WOOL, Page 8
Courtesy photo
Jane and Paul Zeien, of Belvidere, have developed a Wool and Fiber Mill in Belvidere.
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Midwest Farm and Ag - Rock Valley Publishing / Thursday, January 28, 2016 • 7
Courtesy photo
Blosom the cow lives on in children’s book
Blosom welcomed the Leaf River Soaring Eagles 4-H club to her farm on Wednesday, June 16, 2014. Children will again be able to enjoy Blosom by reading the new book Everyone Loves Blosom. Read about it on page 9.
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8 • Thursday, January 28, 2016 / Midwest Farm and Ag - Rock Valley Publishing
Learn small farming skills from the comfort of your desk Did you know that, even in the dead of winter, you can learn to raise Shiitake mushrooms, blackberries, and honeybees? Your fields and gardens may be snowed over, but it is the perfect time to develop your skills in small farming and local food production. University of Illinois Extension will once again be hosting the Small Farms Winter Webinar Series – featuring practical lunch-hour presentations on small farm enterprises and strategies you can use. Tune in right from your desk every Thursday at noon through March 31st. “Since farm life is seldom convenient during the colder months, it’s nice to have these down-to-earth learning opportunities available right at your fingertips – no gloves or long johns required,” said Andy Larson, Extension Educator in Local Food Systems and Small Farms, who will be providing a lesson on pastured poultry production. “Winter is great for planning your next growing season, so let’s talk about ways you can improve or diversify your small farm in 2016.” In addition to the topics mentioned already, the Small Farms Winter Webinar Series will include presentations on cover crops, grazing, farm ponds, soil fertility, improving efficiency, food grain production,
and new food safety rules. Each webinar will be presented by a University of Illinois Extension Educator, timed to fit within your lunch hour, and recorded for future viewing in case you have to miss the live session. It’s easy (and FREE!) to register for the Small Farms Winter Webinars. Sign up for as many as you want at go.illinois.edu/WinterWebinar2016. We’ll send you a webinar reminder, log-on instructions, and how to access the archived recording. If you do not have broadband internet capable of streaming video, call your local Extension office to see if they offer live viewing. “Come in out of the cold and spend an hour thinking and learning about what you want to do on your farm when things warm up,” adds Larson. “There’s nothing like a few great ideas to get the blood flowing again.” If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact your local Extension office. Date/Topic Jan. 14 Lean Farming: Cutting Waste and Maximizing Efficiency on Small Farms
Jan. 21 Soils and Soil Fertility for Small Farms Jan. 28 Farm Pond Ecology: Managing for Desirable Plants and Fish Feb. 4 Producing Shiitake Mushrooms Feb. 11 Managing Horse Pastures on Small Farms and Acreages Feb. 18 The Emerging Local Grain Economy in Illinois Feb. 25 Food Safety Modernization Act: A Changes for Small Scale Producers March 3 Getting Your Beehives Ready for Spring March 10 Raising Meat Birds on Pasture March 17 Using Cover Crops on Small Farms March 24 Growing Great Blackberries March 31 Setting Up a Grazing System on a Small Farm
Alice in Dairyland applications now available MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is accepting applications for the 69th Alice in Dairyland, Wisconsin’s official agriculture ambassador. Application materials are due Monday, Feb. 8. “This position has provided me with unique professional development opportunities unlike any job I’ve had before” said 68th Alice in Dairyland, Teyanna Loether. “Each day presents new learning and networking opportunities with fellow professionals involved in agricul-
ture. I have been able to build upon my passion for teaching others about agriculture with tangible skills that will carry far into my future.” In this highly visible and fast-paced position, the 69th Alice in Dairyland will cultivate relationships with television, radio and print media outlets;, write and deliver speeches; and utilize social media to tell the stories of Wisconsin agriculture. Additional duties include developing and executing marketing plans, delivering classroom presentations, and networking with industry pro-
fessionals. Alice must also learn and retain information about the diversity of Wisconsin agriculture and be able to tailor that information to educate both urban and rural audiences. Alice in Dairyland applicants should have considerable interest in Wisconsin agriculture; at least three years experience, education or training in communications, marketing, education or public relations; and public speaking experience. Applicants must be female, Wisconsin residents and at least 21 years old. This one-year, full-time con-
tractual position starts June 6. The position holder will be headquartered in Madison and travel extensively throughout the state. The annual salary for Alice in Dairyland is $40,000 and includes holiday, vacation and sick leave, as well as use of a vehicle for official business. Reimbursement is provided for an individual health insurance premium up to $450 a month, as well as professional travel expenses. To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to DATCP by 4:30 p.m. Monday, Feb.
8, 2016. Application materials are available at http://datcp. wi.gov/Business/Alice_in_ Dairyland/Recruitment. Qualified applicants will be invited to a preliminary interview in February. Top candidates will be announced in March and the three-day final interview process during which the new Alice will be selected will take place May 5-7 in Dodge County. Direct questions to Alice in Dairyland Program Manager, Becky Paris at (608) 224-5115 or Rebecca.paris@wisconsin. gov.
mals. The ILWFM offers tours of their facilities to groups. They have a strong passion for promoting the wool and fiber industry. As far as the harvesting of the wool and fiber goes, Jane explains it as a painless, harm-
less process. The Zeien family but it also breathes with your shears their sheep once a year. body, just like it does on the “We like to shear before sheep,” said Zeien. There are the lambs are born,” Zeien many benefits to wool and fiber products. explained. “If for some reason, we did The family hires professional shearer to come in and harvest not get the sheep sheared, they would end up being just fine, the wool from their sheep. “He can do our whole flock in even in the summer,” explained one morning,” said Zeien. “It is Zeien. Wool adjusts to your just like giving them a haircut; body temperature and it wicks it doesn’t hurt the sheep at all,” moisture away. “Most people think that wool said Zeien. The wool is sheared off all is only to be worn in the winthe way; similar to a “buzz ter, but really, you can wear cut” for men and it grows back wool products all year long,” extremely quickly. “The sheep said Zeien. Wool is durable, enjoy this process, getting rid strong, renewable, and is flame FARM INC. of a year’s worth- CITY of woolELEVATOR, is resistant. “There are a lot of new propretty refreshing,” said Zeien. “Wool is of course warm, cessing techniques in the wool
industry,” said Zeien, “and wool products are not as scratchy as people tend to think, it is a great fiber to work with.” When the family started this adventure, they were the only wool and fiber mill in Illinois. Even though that has changed, they still take pride in providing the best quality product for their customers who come from near and far to enjoy the numerous products and services of the wool and fiber industry. You can find out more about the Illinois Wool and Fiber Mill and The Complete Sheep Shoppe at www.ilwoolfibermill.com and www.completesheepshoppe.com
• WOOL
Continued from page 6 see different sheep and lambs as well.” The Zeiens have lambs every year in the first part of May. “They sell some of their animals to local 4-Hers to use as projects but harvest the wool of the majority of their ani225083
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Midwest Farm and Ag - Rock Valley Publishing / Thursday, January 28, 2016 • 9
$30,000 in additional scholarships at SMILES
DARIEN, Wis. — The SMILES organization has successfully completed a matching grant challenge campaign to raise $15,000 toward the Sherry Monty Scholarship Fund. Scholarships from this fund are granted to clients, with special needs, who also demonstrate financial need, and who desire to benefit from the programs at SMILES. The successful completion of this fundraising campaign also means that a matching grant challenge has been met. The Stauber Family Foundation, recognizing the need and issuing the challenge, has matched this amount with a donation of an additional $15,000. There is now a total of $30,000 in additional scholarships available through this fund. It is hoped that these scholarship dollars will sup-
port the special needs clients of SMILES who desire to improve their lives and living skills through Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies, regardless of ability to pay full program fees. A strengthened scholarship fund makes it possible to grant additional scholarships; and to provide more clients with the life changing benefits of SMILES programming. “SMILES is grateful to everyone who participated in this effort,” said Gay Stran, Director of SMILES. “Through the collaboration of individuals, volunteers, local service groups, and several area workplace campaigns, we have achieved our campaign goal. As a result of the generosity of the Stauber Family Foundation, that amount has been doubled!” SMILES transcends traditional therapeutic methods by offering individuals with special needs the
joy of participating in an equine assisted program which provides social, emotional, physical and personal rewards. Lives, and living skills, are improved through the classes and programs of SMILES. SMILES is accredited through PATH International as a Premier Center, assuring clients of the highest standards in the industry. SMILES is a non-profit organization holding 501c3 status, and relies upon the generosity and support of the community to continue in its mission. For more information on the SMILES program visit their website at www.smilestherapeuticriding.org, With questions related to the availability of scholarship funds call (262) 882-3470. SMILES is a Program Partner of United Way
Winnebago County Soil, Water Conservation District to award scholarship WINNEBAGO COUNTY — The Directors of the Winnebago County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) are taking applications for a scholarship of up to $1,000 ($500 minimum). This will be awarded to a Winnebago County youth who is or has graduated from a Winnebago County school, or someone currently enrolled in an accredited college or university, to further his or her education in an agricultural field. This includes fields such as Agribusiness, Ag-Economics, Agronomy, Natural Resources, Soil and Crop Science, Forestry, Aquaculture, Wildlife Management, Ag-Science, etc.
A check for half of the amount will be issued for each of the two semesters to the student. This will be done as soon as evidence of registration is furnished to the SWCD. Second semester payment is dependent upon a cumulative grade point average of 3.0. The funds are to be used for the purpose of book, fees and/ or tuition. A committee selected by the Winnebago County SWCD Board and Executive Director will screen all applications. The selection will be based equally upon the following criteria: academic achievement, community service related to conservation activities; and educa-
tional and career goals. To obtain an application, go to our website at www. winnebagoswcd.org or contact the office at (815) 965-2392, ext. 3. Please type or print legibly in black or blue ink. All completed forms must be received by March 18, at the district office: Winnebago County SWCD, 4833 Owen Center Road, Rockford, Ill. 61101. Any applications submitted after this date will be disqualified. The scholarship selection will be made prior to graduation and, if possible, be presented to the recipient at High School graduation or awards night.
Big yields likely according to USDA reports; Farm Futures survey sees more soybeans, less corn CHICAGO — Farmers produced big corn and soybean yields in 2015 that could keep supplies burdensome in the coming year, according to Farm Futures final survey of production. USDA updates its production estimate Jan. 12, when Dec. 1 Grain Stocks and
Winter Wheat Seedings reports are also released. For corn, the magazine estimates the crop at 13.57 billion bushels, less than achieved the past two years but still the third biggest crop ever. USDA previously said the corn crop would come in at 13.654 bil-
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lion bushels. Farm Futures survey of more than 1,550 farmers put yields at 169.1 bushels per acre (bpa), down slightly from USDA’s last estimate, with harvested acreage of 80.27 million nearly 400,000 less. Soybean numbers headed in the other direction, though not dramatically so. The magazine put production at 3.986 billion bushels, a record if achieved, but only 5 million more than USDA’s current estimate. Farm Futures found harvested acreage rising by 280,000 to 82.709 million, though yields of 48.2 bpa were down slightly from USDA’s last guess. “These numbers wouldn’t do much to change the bearish mood of the markets,” says Farm Futures Senior Grain Market Analyst, Bryce Knorr. “The corn production esti-
mate is a little supportive, but probably not enough to turn the market around on its own. For that to happen, demand must improve.” Feed and industrial usage could be a little better than expected when grain stocks data is updated Jan. 12. But those gains could be partly offset by weaker exports. Overall Knorr sees 2015 ending stocks at 1.642 billion, down 143 million from USDA’s December report. In addition to slightly larger supplies, soybean stocks could be swelled by demand that isn’t quite as good as first expected. Modestly weaker crush and exports could result in 2015 ending stocks rising to 492 million, 27 million more than USDA’s December number. “A huge crop is coming on in South America, and flooding
on the U.S. river system could slow late season exports,” Knorr said. “Chinese demand also may not return after the Lunar New Year holidays in February.” Farm Futures second survey of winter wheat seedings found little overall change, though there were regional shifts. Growers said they planted 39.46 million acres of winter wheat, little changed from levels sown for harvest in 2015. But hard red winter wheat acreage fell to 27.6 million, a 5% drop from 2015. Soft red winter wheat ground rose 20% to 8.54 million, while white wheat slipped around 2% to 3.343 million. Farm Futures surveyed growers Dec. 11, 2015 to Jan. 4, 2016, respondents received an email link to an online survey.
10 • Thursday, January 28, 2016 / Midwest Farm and Ag - Rock Valley Publishing
Pocket Knives and Christmas I got another pocket knife this Christmas. She’s a beauty. It’s a buck knife, made in America and ready for action.
I now have about 10 or 12 very nice pocket knives to my name. It’s great to whip them out when family members need
help opening a Christmas present or cutting a piece of string off a sweater. They’re great for opening an envelope or peeling an orange. When I was a kid we always kept one on our person to cut through the twine to open a bale of hay. I remember climbMADISON, Wis. — With the largest membership in 31 years ing up into the hay mow and – nearly 19,500 members – the Wisconsin Association of FFA dropping down a dozen or continues to thrive in numbers and impact the future of agriculture. more bales of hay and then The financial support of the Wisconsin FFA Foundation has also dragging them around the barn seen steady growth, because of its generous donors that rally each in front of the cows. and every year to ensure the lifelong stability of the organization. Then after the cows finished “We are immensely grateful for the many donors that give dur- eating their grain, the twine ing the holiday season, and all year round,” says Sara Schoenborn, on the hay bales would be cut Executive Director of the Wisconsin FFA Foundation. open and the hay kicked in “They are truly the ones sustaining Wisconsin FFA and provid- front of the cows for eating. ing essential opportunities to all members preparing for agricultural It was much faster to cut the careers.” twines than to work the bales The Wisconsin FFA Foundation Annual Fund welcomes any size open by hand. donation from individuals and/or companies wishing to support the A knife has a thousand uses FFA’s overall goals and values. for a farm boy. Heck, I remem“I love the FFA Vision, which states: Students whose lives are ber sometimes just whittling impacted by FFA and agricultural education will achieve academic away on a branch to make a and personal growth, strengthen American agriculture and provide sharp stick. leadership to build healthy local communities, a strong nation and Every boy can use a sharp a sustainable world,” adds Schoenborn. “It is why we do what we do, and why our donors continue to give.” Contributions can be mailed to the Wisconsin FFA Foundation: 1241 John Q. Hammons Dr, Ste. 200, Madison, WI 53717. Gifts can also be made by debit card or credit card securely online (www. wisconsinffafoundation.org/donate) or by calling the Wisconsin FFA Foundation office (608) 831-5058 x1. By Doug Schroder All donations are fully tax-deductible to the amount allowed by For Midwest Farm & Ag law and the deadline for 2015 tax-deductible donations is Dec. 31. There are additional giving methods that offer donors a chance ORANGEVILLE — to support a specific program and/or receive added recognition. Winnebago graduate Patty The Wisconsin FFA Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) organization, unites Meads-Hanson is keeping the individuals, organizations and companies who share a common memory of her Holstein cow interest in the advancement of agriculture and community leader- Blosom, listed in the Guinness ship through FFA. Book of World Records as the You can support today’s FFA members by supporting the pro- World’s Tallest, alive as a chilgrams that have been core tenets of the FFA: proficiency awards, dren’s book has recently been career development events, state FFA degrees, sectional leadership released about the tall bovine. workshops, scholarships, chapter awards, agri-science fair, state “Everyone Loves Blosom” is FFA convention and state officer support. hitting online outlets Amazon Learn more about the Wisconsin FFA Foundation and sponsor- and Barnes and Noble. Patty ship opportunities by visiting www.wisconsinffafoundation.org. Meads-Hanson wrote the paperback children’s book along with Ingram Publishing and she hopes that eventually the book will also be available on bookshelves. Blosom entered the Guinness World Record Book back in 2014 as the World’s Tallest Cow, standing at 6’4” at the withers. on-site processing & cutting assures top Guinness selected the Blosom quality meats for your family entry as the fourth best of the year. Unfortunately, Blosom passed away in May 2015 at the age February 1-15 ONLY 0f 14. WHOLE OR HALF - CALL FOR DEALS! all cut, wrapped and freezer ready...subject to cutting loss Blosom was the Hanson famHalves & quarters of beef, Halves of pork and lamb ily pet for nearly all her life. “We got her when she was only eight OPEN Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, Saturday 8am-4pm weeks old,” said Patty. “We later learned she was unable to have N4290 US HWY 14 calves, but we just didn’t want to Darien, WI part with her. She’s always been just a friendly animal.” 53114 Patty’s father, Gene Meads, now deceased, gave in and the Wisconsin Quest Illinois Link cow enjoyed her days at the Sorg’s Gift Cards Memory Lane Crafting Retreat
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stick to poke around the dirt with. Of course we would never think of poking an unsuspecting brother or sister as they did their chores. Many times I would pull out my knife and slice an apple or a pear for eating. It came in real handy to get rid of any bad parts of the fruit without having to use one’s teeth. We would also use our knife to cut the tops off of carrots from the garden and scrape off the dirt. Garden carrots always made for a wonderful snack while milking the cows. Of course since the knife was used for
so many things it needed to be wiped off real good on a person’s pants before it was used for food. I really like a good pocket knife. Some of my knives came from places we have visited around the country others were presents that have my name printed on them. Once when I was traveling out of the country I forgot that my favorite pocket knife called “old timer” was in my pocket. We were about to enter the security check so I quickly opened my luggage and tossed it inside my suitcase so I wouldn’t have to throw it away when they found it. Once, my brother was apprehended at an airport when he forgot about his pocketknife in his pants. He was hauled off to a little room and questioned for an hour. What’s a farm boy to do?
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Children’s book about World’s Tallest Cow released several miles east of McConnell ever since. “She was our ambassador to the guests who come and craft with us,” said Patty. “Everyone loves Blosom.” Nearly a year ago, several of Patty’s friends, including a veterinarian, commented on Blosom’s height and suggested Patty check on a possible world record. “It’s a lot of work to get the record approved,” said Patty, “but I know Blosom is at least two inches taller at the withers than any other cow on record.” Even though Patty will get no more than a certificate if the record is recognized, she hasn’t minded filling out the 17 pages of documentation or making a measuring stick to specifications dictated by Guinness, or getting the proper witnesses in place at measuring time. She needed two witnesses familiar with cattle as well as a veterinarian to verify the measurement, which had to be done with a meter-stick and a level at the top to guarantee accuracy. She also needed a video to send with the documentation. Patty said it will take about 12 weeks for all the paper work to go through the proper channels and to receive the certificate. The measurement took place over Memorial Day weekend Blosom continues to welcome visitors to the crafting retreat, but she is far friendlier to women
than to men. “Her association with men sometimes has to do with her fear of vaccinations,” said Patty. “She is very smart and shies away from men because of that.” At nearly 13, Blosom is slowing down. Patty keeps her away from concrete floors because of the wear on her hips. But when she is called upon to greet visitors, some bearing gifts of scarves or hats, she perks up and poses for pictures with them. Blosom didn’t set a milking record, and Patty has no idea what the record for bovine longevity may be. But in a few months, Blosom might have her name permanently etched in a record book. That would be a pretty good present for a 13-yearold’s birthday.
Larry Nelson photo
Patty Hanson shows how she measured her Holstein cow Blosom when she was submitting the Holstein to Guinness as the “The World’s Tallest Cow”.
Midwest Farm and Ag - Rock Valley Publishing / Thursday, January 28, 2016 • 11
First National hires Scott Zimmerman as vice president commercial, agricultural banking officer BELOIT — First National Bank and Trust Company (FNBT) is pleased to announce that Scott Zimmerman has joined the company as vice president, commercial and agricultural banking officer covering the bank’s Clinton and Darien, Wisconsin branches. With over 35 years’ experience in the banking industry, Zimmerman is well known in Rock and Walworth counties and will provide Sound Advice to the bank’s clients. He is skilled in tailoring financial products to meet borrower’s needs and specializes in working with agricultural and commercial customers as
they expand their production or consider transferring their business to the next generation. A native of Darlington, Wisconsin, SCOTT Zimmerman ZIMMERMAN grew up on his parent’s dairy farm and later attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he earned a bachelor’s of science degree in agriculture. He is also graduate of the Wisconsin Leadership program. His vast experience
spans three decades, primarily in the agricultural lending arena with other area financial institutions. With an affinity to education, Zimmerman volunteers his time as treasurer of the Clinton Education Foundation and recently completed a ten-year term on the Delavan-Darien Education Foundation Board. He is a member of the Rock County Agriculture Council, the Clinton Kiwanis Club, and currently serves as a trustee at Central Christian Church in Beloit. Personally, he is a business partner and investor in five assisted living facilities
‘AgVocate of the Year’ award nominations due Jan. 7 PRAIRIE DU SAC, Wis. — Do you know a Wisconsin woman who is a true advocate for agriculture? Someone who actively and positively promotes agriculture in her community? Nominate her for the Wisconsin Ag Women’s Summit AgVocate of the Year award, sponsored by The Fabulous Farm Babe, Pam Jahnke. Applications are due Jan. 7, 2016. Nominated individuals must reside in Wisconsin and must be part of an agriculture enterprise, agribusiness, farm and/or commodity organization that operates in Wisconsin. The 2016 AgVocate of the Year will receive $500 cash and $500 donated to the agriculture charity of her choice. Past award winners include: Nodji Van Wychen (2015), Laura Daniels (2014), Karyn Schauf (2014) and Daphne Holterman (2013). To download an award application and for more details, visit wiagwomenssummit.com. The winning recipient will be honored at the 6th Annual Wisconsin Ag Women’s Summit, hosted by Badgerland Financial, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation and University of Wisconsin Extension, on March 4-5, 2016, at the Madison Marriott West. A full agenda and registration details are also available on the webpage. Questions may be directed to either Rochelle Ripp Schnadt at (608) 370Courtesy photo 6908 or Deb Raemisch at (608) Nodji Van Wychen was named the 2015 AgVocate of the Year Winner at the Wisconsin Ag Women’s Summit. 828-5712.
in Delavan, Elkhorn, Milton, Waterford and a new facility, which is currently under construction in Beloit. Zimmerman resides in Delavan, and he will be based at FNBT’s Darien office located at 218 N. Walworth St. First National Bank and Trust Company is a family-owned,
community bank headquartered in Beloit, Wis. Chartered in 1882, First National Bank and Trust Company now serves more than 27,000 households in nine communities and 12 locations in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois with assets of approximately $820 million.
Rock County Agricultural Fund accepting grant applications ROCK COUNTY — The Rock County Agricultural Fund, a component of the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, Inc. is seeking grant requests that support youth and adult agricultural-related projects and programs that promote, educate and make people aware of the business of agriculture in Rock County. Rock County schools and 501(c)(3) charitable organizations in Rock County may apply. Individuals are not eli-
gible. All requests must be received no later than Feb. 15, 2016. The Rock County Agricultural Fund was established in 2001 to support the education of the business of agriculture in Rock County. For applications go to cfsw. org. Click on the Grant tab and Grants Available. For more information please contact Jane Maldonis at 758-0883 or jane@ cfsw.org.
• CHRISTMAS
Continued from page 10 It was an honest mistake. Needless to say he lost that knife, but was allowed to keep his flight. To me a sword is like a big knife. Even though I’m pretty good with a knife, I wouldn’t know how to use a sword. One night the Apostle Peter grabbed his sword and cut the ear off of a Roman guard who was about to take Jesus away to be crucified. Jesus told Peter to put his sword away, and then he healed the guard’s ear. He just stuck it right back on the man’s face. Jesus knew that he had nothing to fear, death was not even a concern to him because he knew where his home was.
In Psalm chapter 91 we read; If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; Jesus knew his Father had his back and he want Peter lashing out to try and save him. God had it all in control. I saw a plaque on a wall the other day that read; don’t worry about tomorrow, I’m already there, signed God. What a great thought. Until next week, God bless!
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