A Supplement to the Star Shopper
Friday, March 17, 2017 • Edition 3
ountry C cres A
Brave moo world Double-H Charolais has been at forefront of cattle embryo transfer since 1990 By MICHAEL STRASBURG Staff Writer
PAYNESVILLE — This coming summer, Harlin and Sue Hecht, of Double-H Charolais in Paynesville, will be making their 50th consecutive appearance at the Minnesota State Fair. Over Àve decades, the Hechts have grown their Charolais cattle herd and developed a national reputation by making key investments in technology and livestock. The story of Double-H Charolais started in the late1950s, when Harlin read an article in The Farmer, publicizing the arrival of a new cattle breed in the U.S. That breed was the Charolais – a French beef cow that is easily crossed with other breeds, including Angus. A few years later, Harlin’s father purchased three Charolais cows. “I saw how fast their calves grew compared to the Angus cows he had and I thought to myself, ‘this is the breed of the future,’” Harlin said. Little did Harlin know, it would become the breed of his future, too. Harlin left the farm for college, where he met his wife, Sue. In 1967, Harlin was employed as an agriculture instructor and Sue was working as an extension home economist for Douglas County. That year, Harlin saw an ad in the newspaper for a Charolais dispersal sale and the couple purchased what they thought to be the best cow available along with a bull calf. The couple showed their cattle at the Minnesota State Fair lat-
er that year, spawning a Àve-decade tradition and a prestigious business. Like any emerging business, the Hechts faced hardship early on, but they didn’t let that deter them from establishing an impressive herd. “I got four cows right away and one died, so I like to say I lost a quarter of the herd,” Harlin said. In 1970, the Hechts moved the farm to their current property in Paynesville. Over the next couple decades, Harlin and Sue began following the emergence and development of cattle embryo transfer — a new technology that had the possibility of revolutionizing their business. Soon enough, they decided to take the plunge and invest some money in the new technology. “We really got going with it in about 1990,” Harlin said. “We went out and bought some of the very best cows in the nation. That’s the only way you can sell embryos; you’ve got to have stuff that other people really want.” The process of embryo transfer breeding is simple enough to understand in general, but it requires great preparation and caution. Therefore, a specialist carries out the bulk of the transfer process. First, a cow is administered “synchronization shots” for four days. These shots contain a follicle-stimulating hormone that allows the cow to produce more than one egg at a time. On the sixth day, the cow is artiÀcially inseminated.
FFocusing on Today’s Rural Environment
PHOTO BY MICHAEL STRASBURG
Sawmill on the hill Swartzentruber specializes in high grade lumber By DIANE LEUKAM Staff Writer LONG PRAIRIE – Moses Swartzentruber has worked with various woods his entire life, and at age 32, runs his own business, Hilltop Sawmill, LLC. Located on a gravel road in the rolling hills southwest of Long Prairie, the young man specializes in high grade lumber. For that, he can thank a local university. “What got me started in high grade was St. John’s University. They
came to us. They wanted someone to grade, saw and sticker their lumber. They checked out several sawmills and chose us,” Swartzentruber said. He explained that the university was offering a short course on grading lumber, and they offered to pay his tuition if he would take the course. He was in his late teens at the time. It paid off for Swartzentruber, but it also beneÀtted St. John’s. Every winter, the university harvests certain trees from their property of several thousand acres, which are turned into lumber at Hilltop Sawmill and used to make into high-end furniture for the campus.
SWARTZENTRUBER continued on page 6
PHOTO BY DIANE LEUKAM
DOUBLE-H continued on page 4
Moses Swartzentruber (right) operates Hilltop Sawmill, LLC with the help of his employees (from left) Dan, Isaac and Jerry Swartzentruber.
Page 2 • Country Acres - Friday, March 17, 2017
country... country
Country This month in the cres A Published by Star Publications Copyright 2014 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave. Sauk Centre, MN 56378 Phone: 320-352-6577 Fax: 320-352-5647 NEWS STAFF
Diane Leukam, Editor diane@saukherald.com Mark Klaphake, Assistant Editor mark.k@dairystar.com Jennifer Coyne, Writer/Page Layout jenn@dairystar.com Andrea Borgerding, Proofreader/Page Layout andrea.b@dairystar.com Herman Lensing, Writer herman@melrosebeacon.com Liz Vos, Writer liz@albanyenterprise.com Laura Hintzen, Writer laura.h@saukherald.com Elizabeth Bethke, Writer elizabeth@saukherald.com Michael Strasburg, Writer michael.s@star-pub.com
Story ideas send to: diane@saukherald.com or mark.k@dairystar.com
8 The happy hobbyist
SALES STAFF Jeff Weyer, 320-260-8505 jeff.w@dairystar.com Kayla Hunstiger, 320-247-2728 kayla@saukherald.com Missy Traeger, 320-291-9899 misy@saukherald.com Tim Vos, 320-845-2700 tim@albanyenterprise.com Mike Schafer, 320-894-7825 mike.s@dairystar.com Lynnette Ostendorf, 320-352-6577 lynnette@saukherlad.com AJ Hasslen, 320-352-6577 allison@saukherald.com Brian Trattles, 320-352-6577 brian.t@saukherald.com
PRODUCTION STAFF Pat Turner Tara Pitschka Amanda Thooft Nancy Powell Brian Dingmann Kaitlin Montebello Hannah Kroll
11 Dairy Princesses
More inside
16 A collectors man
Deadlines: Country Acres will be published the third Friday of every month and inserted to rural customers with the STAR Shopper. Deadline for news and advertising is the Thursday before publication. Extra Copies available at the Albany Enterprise, Melrose Beacon and Sauk Centre Herald offices.
20 21 22
Flocking into spring Cats get asthma Country Cooking
“Committed to being the eyes and ears of our communities.”
Trailers, Skidsteer Attachments, Parts & Service
404 County Road 50 • Avon, Minnesota 56310 • South Side of I-94
320.356.2412 • www.midsotamfg.com
“Remember, if you’re going to be HAULIN you need to be CALLIN, Midsota Manufacturing in Avon!”
CA_March_1B-TV
Get your trailer and skidsteer attachments in for service, so they are ready for spring!
Friday, March 17, 2017 - Country Acres • Page 3
For every farm a grove given his last ride on a trailer, pulled by his old two-cylinder John Deere, to his resting place east of Sauk Centre. Most old farmers of Ferdie’s age are gone now, the way they lived just a memory. Many of the old groves are gone, too, bulldozed onto a pile and removed, buried or burned so the land can be farmed straight through. I can certainly see the logic in that. Land is
expensive and abandoned farm sites can get in the way of today’s much larger equipment. Time changes things, and many things change for the good. Dumpsters and recycling companies are good changes. Sometimes in the summer, though, I’ll drive by farms, look at the grove and wonder…what’s in there?
We Install & Stand Behind Our Service Satellites, Appliances, Flat Screen TV’s, Motors & Much Much More!
Appliance Repair and Electric Motor Repair
ELECTRIC MOTOR & GENERATOR REPAIR
GOT BACKUP? Standby Generator SALES AND SERVICE CE E
AMPS, INC.
CA-March17-1B-TV
Some might wonder what came time, I seemed to have been most disÀrst – the chicken or the egg. Occa- tracted by the candy they were selling sionally, I’ve wondered what in one of the old sheds. It came Àrst – the farm or the was muddy out, and I think grove. Of course you can tell Mom was less than thrilled when all the trees sheltering we were traipsing around in a farm are planted in rows, it. As I recall, she put a stop that the farm came Àrst. But I to that fairly quickly. wonder if most early pioneers At the end of the day, got their 160 acres and gravDad had bought the farm itated to the wooded areas to and we (my younger sibby Diane start building their farm site. lings and I) had new terriLeukam Either way, those groves tory to explore. The grove of trees play a very important was a quiet, mysterious role on the farm. Besides offering a place. Different from ours with its windbreak, where else would farmers neat rows, there were fallen logs covput their junk? I’m not a lover of junk ered in moss, interesting plants, piles laying around on a farm, but years of junk. Things that needed to be disago there were no dumpsters or recy- covered. It was a playground without cling companies. There were woods. slippery slides and teeter totters. I’ve heard stories of the farm There were many buildings on where I grew up. Let’s just say my the farm, including a home that my parents had their work cut out for aunt and uncle, Evelyn and Ferdie them when they bought the place, with Stepan, and their family moved into some support from my grandparents. for a while. They needed a place to I think they had about $27 dollars and live while they were transitioning into a wheelbarrow to their name. By the buying the farm where my dad grew time I was old enough to remember it, up. most of the original trees had been reFerdie passed away two weeks placed with a grove lovingly planted ago at the age of 97. Still a farmer at by Dad. That’s been a while, and the heart and sharp as a tack, he apprepoplars he planted to give that quick ciated simplicity, and loved all things windbreak are long gone, the other old. He was a regular at Pioneer Days species reaching maturity later. in Albany every year, demonstrating The fall I turned 8 years old, the his old wood splitter there. Though farm across the road from us came up he farmed for decades, he may have for auction, and Dad was set to buy enjoyed his retirement more than anyit. Such excitement. There were cars thing. and trucks everywhere, but at the After his funeral Mass, he was
105 County Road 10, Albany, MN 320-845-4690 • www.ampsrs.com
Building Relationships Since 1958
Professional design. Reasonable rates.
effective drainage. Brad Herickhoff, Owner Office: 320-351-4872 Cell: 320-293-0882 brad@agtechdrainage.com
Bill Pasche, Sales & Design Cell: 320-293-6951 bill@agtechdrainage.com
Gene Mensen, Sales Cell: 320-429-1036
gene@agtechdrainage.com
Sam Lange, Sales & Site Manager Cell: 320-232-3102
BARGAINS theof MONTH
®
SAVE 35% or more
499
YOUR CHOICE
20-Lb. Wild Bird Food
HOT DEAL!
L 501 272 1 While supplies last.
sam @agtechdrainage.com
10-Lb. Black Oil Sunflower Bird Seed L 106 118 1 While supplies last.
7 99
YOUR CHOICE
NaturalAire Microparticle Furnace Filters
Choose 16x20x1, 16x25x1, 20x20x1 or 20x25x1. F 214 021, 023, 026, 028 F6
SAVE 25% or more
49
99
re
6-Cu.-Ft. Steel Wheelbarrow
Now offering site prep for buildings, bins and lagoons
23 99 -200
sale pric mail-in
21 9
Seamless metal tray. Pneumatic wheel with 2-ply tire. T 588 683 1 While supplies last.
Sale ends 3/31/2017
CA_Mar-1B-MT
While supplies last.
Page 6 • Country Acres - Friday, March 17, 2017 SWARTZENTRUBER continued from front “There are massive red oak logs,” said Swartzentruber. Currently there are up to 10 semi loads of logs waiting there, ready to be hauled to the sawmill. Once at the mill, the logs are stacked in long rows to wait their turn at the band saw. “Band technology is way better than the traditional way,” Swartzentruber said. “There is way less waste – less than half what it used to be.” Logs are hauled into the clean, new building on the property, where on a blustery day it was warm and comfortable, with Áoor heat fueled with, what else but a wood stove. There, three young employees man-
age the equipment and the process that transforms logs into lumber. All Swartzentrubers, Jerry and Isaac run the mill and feed the edger and Dan is the stacker. The logs, once placed on the mill, move back and forth, with each pass creating boards of random widths, typically 1 1/8 inches thick. As each board is cut, it then moves on to the edger to remove the bark, and is placed into stacks. To separate the boards and prevent molding, “stickers,” or 3/4 x 3/4 inch pieces of wood, are placed between them to allow for air circulation. The best lumber is taken from the outsides of the hardwood logs, while the center is used to create railroad ties.
Whatever revs your engine, we can finance it.
Those ties are sold to a broker who then sells them to railroad companies. Other by products include the bark, or hardwood slab wood which is sold as Àrewood, and the softwood goes for wood shavings for bedding. “We also run into specialty needs, such as blocking for wind turbines, which are 6x8x32 inches and used as skids for the equipment while the wind farms are being constructed. This also goes through brokers,” said Swartzentruber. Much of Hilltop Sawmill’s lumber goes out “green,” or not dried, to a company where it is graded, stickered, kiln dried and made into components for cabinets. Swartzentruber takes great satisfaction in the fact that 90 percent of his business is done within the United States. “I like to do work with companies that are in the U.S. They make products here and they stay in the U.S.,” he said. Types and grading of wood Swartzentruber buys logs from all over northern Minnesota. He meets with foresters, timber growers, loggers and often private landowners. “That’s one of my favorite things to do,” he said. Soil types play a major role in the quality of wood. “Red oak is highly affected by soil type,” he said. “Clay soil makes a better tree for what we do. Heavy clays make
better color, nice grain, fewer knots and yields better on high-end wood. Red oak grown on sand produces less yield, and it’s very obvious.” Eighty-Àve percent of the red oak lumber sawn at Hilltop Sawmill goes for interiors, to be used in cabinets, molding and Áooring. Ash trees grow in swampy and low areas, and some years there is much less ash available. “In order to get into the woods during the winter, they need to have a good freeze. This year there was too much snow early up north, and a solid freeze was never achieved,” Swartzentruber said. Though ash makes up a very small percentage of what they process, what they do process ends up in Vietnam or China, where it is used to make guitar parts. Basswood is used to make window shutters for Artesian blinds. The wood is sold green and shipped to a buyer in an eastern state, where it is cut, put on drying sticks and kiln dried. Then it is shipped to a company that Ànishes it. The wood at the inside of the log that is discolored is used for painted blinds. “They don’t waste much,” Swartzentruber said. Hard maple is used for cabinets and the aspen for drawers and furniture frames. Though Hilltop Sawmill works with
Finance the perfect new or used recreational vehicle with rates as low as 2.76%APR. Call us:
Online at:
888.330.8482
mycmcu.org/apply
Visit one of 17 convenient branch locations throughout Minnesota
Centered on you. CA-Mar-MT-1B
Subject to credit approval. Membership qualification required. Rates based on past credit history. The rate reduction offered is based on a .25% discount for having a checking account and debit card and will be used to calculate the final Annual Percentage Rate (APR) to be assigned to a new loan. Does not apply to loans already financed with CMCU. Limited time offer. Other restrictions apply. Ask for details. Equal Opportunity Lender. Federally Insured by NCUA.
1510 N Nokomis Street NE, Alexandria, MN 56308
PHOTO BY DIANE LEUKAM
Moses Swartzentruber stands with a red oak log at his sawmill near Long Prairie.
3405 Dakota Street 8 Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 762-5167 • (320) 219-7846
Financing Available!
VARIETY OF TRAILERS
CHAINSAWS
8x17 RV Edition PLUS…Complete line of Fish House Accessories!
ZERO TURN RIDING G MOWERS MOWER RS
Trailers to fit your needs!
CA-Mar17-1B-BT
Friday, March 17, 2017 - Country Acres • Page 7 PHOTOS BY DIANE LEUKAM
red oak, basswood, ash, hard maple and aspen, along with occasionally some white oak, one type of wood stands out above all. “I just love red oak. That’s my number one any day of the week. I love the way the lumber looks. I have a weakness for oak,” Swartzentruber said, those words matched by a glow in his eyes. Hilltop sawmill is currently stocked with approximately 700 cords of high grade logs. Though small by today’s standards, Swartzentruber thoroughly enjoys the many aspects of running his own sawmill, saying, “This is not a big operation but it’s pretty neat.”
Dan Swartzentruber (left) removes a board from an edging machine which has cut the bark off the sides. The bark, a by-product, is sold as Àrewood. (Bottom left) Moses Swartzentruber is pictured with some of the 700 cords of logs currently in stock at Hilltop Sawmill. (Bottom right) A freshly-cut board moves along a belt as the band saw begins another cut. To the left, sawdust is moved to an attached shed and sold as a by-product.
DRIVE INTO SAVINGS! Quality Construction...
Built to Handle Our Midwest Weather!
M
Custom Built to Any Size CA-Mar-1B-LO
Fast & Economical!
24x24x10 ........$7,500 30x40x10 ......$11,000 36x48x10 ......$14,000 40x64x12 ......$18,000
Subject to local building codes, snow-load requirements, delivery & crew travel in some areas. Prices subject to change without notice.
Ask Abou Concretet Prices!
resser Motor & Sport CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF GOLF CAR SALES & SERVICE
Remaining Pricing CLEARANCE on all 2016 EZGo Golf Cars, Shuttles and Haulers in-stock!
Book Now for Low Winter Rates! Fully Insured #BC574944
320.492.6364
Special Sheffield Financing Available to Qualified Buyers.
j.austinconstruction@yahoo.com
Protect what is important to you. For all of your insurance needs!
CA-Mar-1B-MT
Darcy Jennissen Pfeffer
Claire Rieland
320.351.2436
512 Main Street S, Ste 2 • Sauk Centre, MN 56378 Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm • Appointments available at anytime
•New & Used •Gas & Electric •Sales & Service
•Parts & Accessories •Rental AUTHORIZED DEALER
CA_MAR-1B-LO
WE OFFER: • Farm/Home • Business • Auto • Life • Health • Rec Vehicle...and more!
770 Hwy 23 • Cold Spring, MN 56320 320-685-3656 | 800-856-1877 | www.GresserGolfCart.com
Page 8 • Country Acres - Friday, March 17, 2017
The happy hobbyist
Jon Schmitt holds up in his garden shed a tray of honey from a beehive. He has started feeding his bees sugar water to bring activity to the hives.
Virgfest
2017 SAT.
Feature Band Stone Road 9 pm - 1 am
AS PRIL 1 T @ 9PM
Schmitt uses trial and error to explore a range of hobbies By LIZ VOS Staff writer HOLDINGFORD – There is a hobby for every season and Jon Schmitt is happy to explore the many options. Making maple syrup, gardening, hunting, Àshing, trapping, making wine, brewing beer and spinning honey keep the happy hobbyist smiling year-round. This time of year is centered on prepping for syrup, but it’s also the
time of year when the bees start buzzing. On a recent March afternoon, Schmitt made his way out to his garden shed near Holdingford where he has been experimenting with storage of honeybees over the winter months. Looking through the hives, he could tell that some of the bees had not made it through the harsh Minnesota winter, but many were starting to bustle from their winter stance. That stance, an effort of survival from the chill, includes creating a living ball made of shivering bees – at the center, keeping an average temperature of around 70 degrees, is
Playing Live
Band | Keg | Set-ups Food | Games | Fun Welcome to bring friends, campers, tents and sleeping bags! 21 and older (ID’s will be checked at the Door!) Sober cabs available for rides home.
Downtown Stop Lights (US 71), Sauk Centre, head east on 17, at “T” take right (cty. 185), follow until you hit a curve veering right, 1st left after curve.
320.352.6978 • 37984 Cty. Rd. 185, Sauk Centre, MN
PHOTOS BY LIZ VOS
(Above) A bucket of sugar water drips into a beehive and gets the bees active. Soon, they will start laying eggs and building the population. (Right) Bees cluster tightly to each other, but this batch, Schmitt says, will not survive much longer. He is hopeful his other hives did better.
Serving our communities for more than 50 years!
• • •
Little Falls Albany St. Cloud 320.845.2940 320.632.6311 320.251.0286 Monticello Maple Lake 320.963.5414 763.295.5070 An Independently Owned Member, RSM US Alliance
www.swcocpas.com
Regional Independent CPA Firm Accounting, Tax, Payroll, Quickbooks And Business Consulting Agriculture, Construction, Transportation, Telecommunications, Retailers, Wholesalers, Printing, Government Agencies, Dealerships, Not-For-Profit Organizations And Manufacturing
CA_MAR 17-1B-TV
CA_March17-1B-rb
Donation for Food d & Band at the door
Page 10 • Country Acres - Friday, March 17, 2017
ORDER NOW! I have a good feeling about this!!
Is this my year?
HOBBIES continued from page 9
We have everything your chicks need! How do I look?
I can’t handle rejection!
...Delivery of chicks
April 13th & 27th, May 11th & 25th and June 8th CAMarch-1B-MT
Order must be received 1 week before delivery 3/4 Miles West of the Downtown Stoplights on Sinclair Lewis Ave. in Sauk Centre, MN
320-351-2227
Centra Sota - Little Falls, MN | 320-632-3631 • Centra Sota - St. Martin, MN | 320-548-3245 Centra Sota - Upsala, MN | 320-573-2186 • Centra Sota Feed & Grain - Albany, MN | 320-845-4086
Established in 1975
Drainage LLC. Dave Bailey, Manager 320-352-6961 Howard Marthaler 320-250-2984
PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER
During his syrup-making season last year, Schmitt Àlled up a turkey cooker with water, which was used to boil sap into syrup.
eries to see what they have to offer. There are so many around and we have a good time checking them out,” he said. While Libby is not handson with many of Schmitt’s hobbies, she is happy to be with him as he enjoys his. “She likes having the garden, and she comes along when I go Àshing or hangs out when I am working on other projects,” Schmitt said of his wife. “She knows that it all makes me happy and she’s really supportive of that.” A favorite part of Schmitt’s hobbies is having the chance to talk to others about what he has learned. To anyone who is considering taking on a new hobby, he recommends talking with and even watching someone who has been involved. “These hobbies can cost a lot of money and it’s a good idea to really look into it before investing a lot into them unless you are sure it’s something you want to do,” he said. “But I, and so many others who have these types of hobbies, really love sharing what we’ve learned. I am always happy to talk.”
Jason Marthaler 320-249-6062 Karl Larson 320-808-8012
Ditching • Tiling Excavating Ag Waste Systems ave a combined and Dave h n o s a J E ard, nce of OVER 110 Y ARS! w o , H experie l r K a w o rk
“FARM DRAINAG E SPECIALISTS”
Jason Marthaler is a Trained Technical Service Provider
CA_Mar-1B-MT
CA-Mar-1B-KH
“We are in the land improvement business. We do farm drainage, ag waste systems, site work for farm buildings and silage pads, plus miscellaneous work. We also do county, township, and watershed work, as well as soil conservation work.” - Dave Bailey, Manager of MBC Drainage, Sauk Centre
PHOTOS BY LIZ VOS
Jon Schmitt checks a beehive to see if any from the batch survived the harsh winter.
43965 450th Street • Sauk Centre
Friday, March 17, 2017 - Country Acres • Page 15 DAIRY PRINCESSES continued from pages 11-14 Benesh continued
LAND ROLLERS
Herkenhoff continued
Who had the biggest influence on you and your love for dairy, and how did that relationship develop? My Dad has had the greatest influence on me for my passion for the dairy community. Growing up and watching my dad strive for the greatest care in our cows and his stewardship for our land has been incredibly influential. Every day he makes sure that his cows are happy and healthy so they can provide us with delicious dairy foods. I could As an advocate for the dairy industry, how do you not be more grateful to grow up and learn from my dad plan to promote dairy consumption and address con- who has sprouted my passion for the dairy community. sumer concerns? One way I plan to promote dairy consumption is by using social media to spread the message As an advocate for dairy industry, how do you plan to that dairy foods have nine essential nutrients in them promote dairy consumption and address consumer and are a great way to get your daily calcium. To address concerns? I believe that growing up in the 21st century consumer concerns, I would make sure I stay up to date we can now utilize social media to connect with consumwith all the new developments in the dairy community ers and spread awareness among others. I also believe so I can share my knowledge with those who are willing that getting out and talking with farmers and consumers to learn. is incredibly important to promote dairy good choices and answer any concerns with the best of our knowlWhat events do you look forward to participating in edge. this upcoming year and why? The event I am looking forward to most is serving malts at the Stearns County What events do you look forward to participating Fair. I love going to the fair every year and meeting new in this upcoming year and why? This upcoming year I people, so I can’t wait to promote the dairy industry at look forward to the breakfast on the farm and classroom the same time. visits. Breakfast on the farm is always an exciting event where we get to see everyone in our community come out and experience what happens on a farm and all the wonderful dairy foods that our cows provide for them. Donnay continued Classroom visits are also very fun because as a dairy prinWho had the biggest influence on you and your love cess, we are able to speak with children and encourage for dairy, and how did that relationship develop? My them to include three servings of dairy into their diet evfamily is my biggest influence. We live on a small farm ery day because they are at such a crucial age to start inwhich we all work together to do the best we can. I am corporating dairy into their diet to grow up to be strong able to lean on them for support and through tough and healthy. times along with celebrating. We all know how important dairy is for the world so now I can proudly represent Holdvogt continued them. between consumers and farmers. This helps build conAs an advocate for the dairy industry, how do you sumer confidence and ensures that farmers can continue plan to promote dairy consumption and address con- doing the job they love. sumer concerns? As a runner, most people don’t understand the importance to get all the essential nutrients Who had the biggest influence on you and your love to feed the body. People drink so much pop and sugary for dairy, and how did that relationship develop? My drinks, so I plan to keep mentioning the fact of milk – fla- father and older brother, Thomas, both had a large influvored or not – consists of the same nutrients. ence on my passion for the dairy industry. As this passion developed, they were always willing to answer my quesWhat events do you look forward to participating in tions and encourage me. Each day, both of these men this upcoming year and why? I really am excited about radiate happiness from their jobs as farmers. They have breakfast on the farm and the fair. At both events, there shown me how satisfying it is to work with both the land are a lot of people to talk to and I want to be proud of and animals to create a wholesome, nutritious product who I am. I’m just excited for the whole year. for consumers.
BY HARMS
Who had the biggest influence on you and your love for dairy, and how did that relationship develop? I think my dad was the one who influenced me the most, because he is a strong believer in hard work and doing what you love, so when I told him I wanted to work on a dairy farm because of my love for animals, he supported me however he could.
Herdering continued
to spend lots of time with them. They helped me grow, learn, and love the farming life. When I was little I got to feed calves with my grandma and I still ride in the tractor with grandpa.
As an advocate for the dairy industry, how do you plan to promote dairy consumption and address consumer concerns? To promote dairy consumption, I will share the vast nutritional benefits of dairy foods. Each delicious serving of dairy rewards consumers with nine essential nutrients that are needed for a lifetime of health. When addressing consumer concerns, I will share key facts about the industry and tell stories about my family’s farm. Social media is an excellent way for me to accomplish both of these tasks and efficiently advocate to a large group of consumers at one time.
CA-Mar-1B-BT
As an advocate for the dairy industry, how do you plan to promote dairy consumption and address consumer concerns? I think the best way to advocate is to be seen out in the community. I want to be available for What events do you look forward to participating in consumers to ask any questions so they don’t have to this upcoming year and why? There are many events that I am looking forward find the information on their own. to participating in during What events do you look forward to participating in the next year. As a future this upcoming year and why? There are many events teacher, I am most looking that I look forward to participating in as a dairy princess. forward to classroom visThe events I am excited about the most are the breakfast its. Working with children on the farm, classroom visits, social events in the com- is one my favorite activimunity and the county fair because these events involve ties. It will be very exciting many consumers that I can educate about the dairy to inform these energetic and curious students foods. about the dairy industry. I am also looking forward to “Breakfast on the Farm.” Past dairy princesses speak very highly of this event and I believe it is a great place for consumers to establish a connection with local dairy farmers.
15-62’ Sizes
Priced thousands lower than the competition!
Over 1,000 land rollers sold and operating in the Midwest • Transports Easily • Simple to Fold and Roll • Keep moisture in the soil • Firmly pack the soil to prevent weed growth • Enable better germination • Can be used for alfalfa, hay, soybeans and more.
Video online at www.harmsmfg.com
Tandem Bale Racks 20 Ton Wagons!
• Heavy Duty • All Steel Construction • Guaranteed To Trail • 10’x30’ bed
Big Bale Dump Racks
Heavy Duty!
• Big Square And Big Round Bales • Heavy Duty • Double acting hydraulic lift • 10’x24’ Bed • 8 Bolt Hubs
Wagons Variety of sizes!
• Professional welding • Proven reliability • Extended reach availble for easy connection
Dump Trailers • Single or double axle • Double acting hydraulic dump • Priced competitively
HARMS MFG., INC. 14451 430TH ST. • BERTHA, MN 56437
Just 20 minutes from Little Falls or St. Cloud on Cty. Rd. 17
www.jimssnowmobileandmarine.com
218-924-4522
2017 RANGER XP® 900
HOLDINGFORD 320-746-2165 Restrictions: Offers vary by model. Valid on select 2013-2017 new and unregistered models purchased between 3/1/17- 4/30/17. See your dealer for details. Rates as low as 2.99% APR for 36 months. Examples of monthly payments required over a 36-month term at a 2.99% rate:$29.08 per $1,000 financed; and at an 5.99% rate: $30.42 per $1,000 financed. An example of a monthly payment with $0 down, no rebate, an APR of 2.99% for 36 months at a MSRP of $9,999.00 is $290.74; total cost of borrowing of $467.60 with a total obligation of $10,466.60. Down payment may be required. Other financing offers are available. See your local dealer for details. Minimum Amount Financed $1,500. Other qualifications and restrictions may apply. Financing promotions void where prohibited. Offer subject to change without notice. Warning: Polaris® off-road vehicles can be hazardous to operate and are not intended for on-road use. Driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate. Passengers, if permitted, must be at least 12 years old. All riders should always wear helmets, eye protection, and protective clothing. Always use seat belts and cab nets or doors (as equipped). Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. All riders should take a safety training course. Call 800-342-3764 for additional information. Check local laws before riding on trails. ©2017 Polaris Industries Inc.
Friday, March 17, 2017 - Country Acres • Page 17
PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH BETHKE
(Left) Farm collectibles and wrenches hang on display in Gilles’ shed. Among the various iron tools are John Deere, Syracuse, Dane and other well-known companies. (Bottom left) Various cut-out wrenches including IHC, Cassady, Buffalo Pits, Iron Age, Zenith, Planet Jr., and more, hang on Gilles’ shed wall for display. (Right) Gilles has been collecting antique farm equipment since his youth. He has collected implement toolboxes with lids found on cultivators, plows, mowers and binders, which are mounted on an axle display.
GILLES continued on page 18
Let us help you customize your farm Call Randy, Derek, or Cody Today!
Paul’s Welding & Repair
Free Estimates ates • Free Delivery Locally Owned and Operated
• Residential • Agricultural • Light Commercial • Drafting
16+ Years of Quality Service!
St. Martin, MN • www.lifestylelumber.com • 320-548-3459 • 800-699-9774
• Sell & Repair Silo Unloaders • Light Manufacturing • Sell & Repair Lagoon Vertical Pumps
On-Site Welding & Repairs
CA-Mar17-1B-TV
Call Paul for all your
PORTABLE WELDING NEEDS! S
www.mnnationalagency.com info@mnnationalagency.com
Aluminum, Stainless Steel & Cast Iron
Call us to sway Rent Jamesway Spreader Tanks! anks!
196 West St. S St. Martin, MN 56376 • 320-548-3300
CA_Mar-1B-MT
There when you need us, so you can get back to work!
Sauk Centre
Long Prairie
320.527.0050
320.732.6612
LLet us hhelpl you with your insurance needs!
Heidi H idi B Beissel i l CSR
M kT Mark T. M Maloney l Agency Manager
Caroll Rieland C Ri l d CISR
Page 18 • Country Acres - Friday, March 17, 2017 GILLES continued from page 17
“It is hard to Ànd something he doesn’t already have,” Melanie said. “If he does stumble upon something he doesn’t have, it is usually very expensive.” Melanie encourages her husband to collect because she knows how passionate Mark is when it comes to antique farm equipment. “He lights up when he gets a new piece,” Melanie said. “Sometimes he acts like a little kid in a candy store.” The avid collector searches for items that still have the original patina on the surfaces, gas engines that have since ceased to run with the intent to restore them, and items that he can organize and arrange in his large workshop. “I enjoy collecting antique farm equipment,” Mark said. “It has always been a hobby to me, but I have to start narrowing my view.” Nearly three years ago, he was crushed in a work-related accident, which caused certain limitations. The accident has pushed Mark to cut back on his collecting. “He still stays busy with his projects, but he can’t do a lot of the handy work like lifting and climbing on ladders like he used to,” Melanie said. Regardless of his limitations, Mark still enjoys Ànding those special items. However, Ànding a rare piece is only half of the thrill for Mark. “It is all about the hunt, seeing people and talking with different people who have similar interests,” said the enthusiast.
PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH BETHKE
Mark Gilles and his wife, Melanie, stand in front of Fuller & Johnson Gas Engines and Syracuse Walking Plows that Gilles has avidly collected and rebuilt over the years.
Years ago, Mark traveled to different states like Maryland, Maine, Texas, Pennsylvania, Florida and further west. Mark plans on going to an upcoming auction on March 18 in Greensboro, Md., where his heart is set on four different wrenches that will add to his collection. “It is fun to go out of state and look for stuff,” Mark said. “Everyone does and collects things a little differently, and you never know what you are going to stumble across.”
“This is my thing, collecting antique and unique farm equipment. Everyone has their own hobby and this just happens to be mine.” - Mark Gilles
PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH BETHKE
Mark Gilles holds a rare TR590 John Deere cut out wrench, one of seven recorded in the U.S. The item is one of his most favorite collectable antique farm tools.
Opportunity is knocking—save on Kubota’s versatile Standard L compact tractors today! Offer ends 5/31/17.
111 50th Avenue West, Alexandria, MN 56308 www.alexpowerequipment.com
Let St. Rosa Lumber Draft and Construct the Perfect Home for You Designs ü Customized ü Showroom of Products Customer ü Superior Service
320.763.4994
*20% down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 84 months on purchases of new Kubota L (excluding L39/L45/L47) Series equipment is available to qualified purchasers from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory through 5/31/2017. Example: An 84-month monthly installment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 84 payments of $11.90 per $1,000 financed. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentation preparation fee is charged. Dealer charge for document preparation fee shall be in accordance with state laws. Inclusion of ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. 0% A.P.R. and low-rate financing may not be available with customer instant rebate offers. Financing is available through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A., 1000 Kubota Drive, Grapevine, TX 76051; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 5/31/2017. See us for details on these and other low-rate options or go to www.kubota.com for more information. Optional equipment may be shown.
kubota.com
© Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2017
CA_Mar17-1b-BT
Build with the Best! 29033 County Road 17, Freeport, MN 56331 320-836-2284 • 888-276-1751
www.strosalumber.com
Friday, March 17, 2017 - Country Acres • Page 19 DAIRY PRINCESSES continued from pages 13-14 MAUS continued
SCHMITZ continued
dad. He has been there for me all the time. He has shared some of his stories from growing up that have influenced me. He encourages me to try new things, most of which are dairy related and is willing to help me practice for dairy related contests. He has helped my passion grow since I was little because we used to race out to the barn in the morning.
Who had the biggest influence on you and your love for dairy, and how did that relationship develop? My dad has been my biggest influence. At a young age, I was always in the barn with my dad being his shadow. He’s taught me so much about the dairy industry and I can’t thank him enough.
lakecountryvetservice.com
As an advocate for the dairy industry, how do you plan to promote dairy consumption and address consumer concerns? The best way to reach consumers is through social media sites. There is a lot of misinformation on these sites and consumers are starting to believe some of the ideas given. I want to combat that by explaining what dairy farmers actually do and why we’re proud of it. In addition, I would tell consumers that dairy foods are nutritious and good tasting.
EXTENDED THRU MARCH!!
What events do you look forward to participating in this upcoming year and why? I am looking forward to the Stearns County Breakfast on the Farm because I will get to work with a variety of people of many ages. It is a wonderful experience to see so many people that are anxious to learn about the dairy industry.
What events do you look forward to participating in this upcoming year and why? I’m looking forward to Stearns County Breakfast on the Farm. I’ve volunteered at this event for the past three years through my FFA chapter and it’s great to see thousands of people touring the host farm and learning what dairy farming consists of. I’m also looking forward to parades. I’ve been perfecting the wave since I was little.
MEHR continued
WILLENBRING continued
bridge between our Stearns County dairy farmers and the people that enjoy our products. Through dairy events I am able to meet with individuals young and old to inform them about their food and answer any questions they may have.
Who had the biggest influence on you and your love for dairy, and how did that relationship develop? My parents are the ones who have really created an influence on me and my love for dairy. They have helped me to understand why the dairy industry is important and have shown a great deal of care, pride and passion towards it. Being able to help out on the farm and working with my parents and siblings has shown me the hard work that goes into producing the products that end up in the hands of consumers.
As an advocate for the dairy industry, how do you plan to promote dairy consumption and address consumer concerns? I plan to promote dairy consumption at my events as well as through social media. I’d like to start by informing consumers about where their food comes from, by describing the care farmers take of their animals and their land. I also plan to inform them about the many safety and health tests all dairy foods go through before heading to the grocery store. Reminding them that dairy foods are wholesome, nutritious and good tasting. What events do you look forward to participating in this upcoming year and why? The fair is definitely the event I’m looking forward to the most. It was a great social event last year as a 2016 dairy princess. Seeing all the family’s lining up waiting for a malt makes me feel like we as princesses are doing our jobs well. The malt stand has been my favorite at the county fair ever since I can remember, so being able to help with the malt booth last year and again this year will be a dream come true.
%
10
off
any routine dental cleaning & polishing
320-845-6930 1-800-495-6930
E
Who had the biggest influence on you and your love for dairy, and how did that relationship develop? My parents both had a large dairy influence on me. For example, feeding calves with mom, along with milking cows and delivering calves with dad. Both of them taught me the value of hard work and dedication which is what dairy farming is all about. The farm is a part of most of my childhood memories, and without the family-owned farm, my childhood would have been much different.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
As advocate for dairy industry, how do you plan to promote dairy consumption and address consumer concerns? In order to promote dairy consumption I feel that it’s important to connect with consumers and inform them of the benefits and importance of dairy products and the journey these products take from the farm to the consumer. To be able to address consumer concerns, I feel that it’s necessary to present to them the facts and truth of dairy farming. Many people have a misunderstanding of what actually goes on at the farm and the time, care and work put into the products that reach the consumer. Breakfast on the farm is a great way to present these facts and gives the consumer a visual understanding as well. What events do you look forward to participating in this upcoming year and why? I look forward to participating in breakfast on the farm as well as serving malts at the county fair. I feel that it’s a great opportunity to directly connect with consumers and reach out to a large quantity of people in order to share my passion towards the dairy community with them. I also see it as a great way to educate people of every age and answer questions they may have about the dairy industry.
551 Railroad Ave., Albany Located across from the Kraft plant
Let the PROPANE EXPERTS Help You! We have everything you need to complete your cabin. 50 years experience!
• Regulators • Hoses • Fittings • Lights • Propane Tanks
Two Great Options! p G Great Heaters Priced Right!
Full Line Distributor of Empire Fish House Heaters & Parts
Propane Cylinders SOLD BY THE GUYS KNOW Filled & Are For Sale THAT PROPANE” Come See Our Showroom “SAFE EQUIPMENT
America’s Propane Company 931 Lincoln Ave, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 320-251-0373 • www.amerigas.com
“WHERE EVERY POLICY COMES WITH AN AGENT.”
E
n
• COMPETITIVE RATES • EXCELLENT SERVICE • FLEXIBLE BILLING • STRONG COMPANIES Offices in:
NEW LOCATION! 1/4 mi mi. south of Albany Fleet Supply on County Road 10 Check Out Our New Location C
ccelebrating Earth Day both April 21st and 22nd. DALE OVERM OVERMAN
320-845-2747 or 320-248-5253
& Enjoy Specials & Door Prizes!
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-5, Sat. 8-Noon 34737 County Road 10 • Albany, MN 56307 07 7
Serving cookies and coffee e
ST. CLOUD 3801 North 3rd Street, Ste 100 St. Cloud, MN 56303
SAUK CENTRE
ALBANY
864 Main Street Sauk Centre, MN 56378
140 5th Street, Albany, MN 56307
HOLDINGFORD
LONG PRAIRIE
580 Main St., Holdingford, MN 56340
9 Central Ave Long Prairie, MN 56347
PIERZ
Stop by one of our 7 locations today!
205 Main St N Pierz, MN 56364
• Farm • Business • Auto • Home • Life • Health
CA_March_1B-TV
recycle@albanytel.com recycle@a albany anyt ytel com
ST. CLOUD
4191 2nd St. S, St. Cloud, MN 56301
We buy: • Aluminum • Stainless Steel • Brass • Copper pe • Electronics • Automotive Batteries • and More
Toll Free 1-800-224-6671
CA-Mar 17-1B-TV
As an advocate for the dairy industry, how do you plan to promote dairy consumption and address consumer concerns? I would like to say that milk has nine essential nutrients and milk can be processed into many different dairy foods. They are also easy to consume. Butter and cheese can easily be added to many foods. The dairy foods have also been adjusting to consumers busy schedules. Cheese sticks and Go-gurts are simple snacks that can be taken with on the go. I hope to answer all concerns with a positive outlook on the dairy industry.
PET DENTAL HEALTH MONTH