Rural Route wisconsin Farm bureau federation’s
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october | november 2014 • vol. 20 no. 5 | wfbf.com
Founded by Farmers, for Farmers
We Salute
Rural Mutual Insurance Company for 80 Years of Service to Members
From Dairy to Berries Page 23
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Strategic Plan Goals: 2015-2020 Leopold Award Finalists Named VFA Endorses Candidates for Nov. 4 Election
Peak performance at harvest is a necessity. It’s our expertise.
Producers who look to have a successful harvest turn to FS. Our grain systems experts reduce downtime by offering the latest products, innovations and knowledge to your grain operation. Whether you need a part in a hurry or advice on your equipment, we’ll keep you running. At FS we are always looking for ways to optimize your grain system and ensure during harvest your operation is ready for what’s next.
www.fssystem.com
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©2013 GROWMARK, Inc. A14143
contents
vol. 20 no. 5
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16
features
articles
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Rural turns 80
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Political action committee makes more endorsements for November 4 election.
Anniversary provides Rural Mutual Insurance Company opportunity for reflection.
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food prices rise
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Survey says meats send food prices rising.
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shop pockets
from dairy to berries After 40 years of dairy farming, St. Croix County farmer switches to berries.
COVER: In 1954, the construction began for a new home office at 801 West Badger Road in Madison.
strategic plan Priorities that will guide our organization in the future.
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Sauk County Farm Bureau member wants to change the tool belt as we know it.
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vfa endorsements
leopold conservation finalists
23 departments 5
news
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Members
26
member benefits
28
Opinion
34
leadership
39
ag in the classroom
42
foundation
45
Rural mutual
Three farms recognized as conservation leaders.
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grandpa’s handwritten obituary Cheri Klussendorf blogs about her family tree and shares her grandfather’s obituary.
Dairy Margin Protection Program Sign-up Underway october | november 2014
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Editor’s Note
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hat do you do? It seems like a simple enough question, but often the answer is sometimes a mouthful. Almost seven years on the job for Farm Bureau and I’m still not sure my friends and family understand what I do for a living. Those that follow my Facebook page might have seen that I: • Served grilled cheese sandwiches and chocolate shakes with collegiate Farm Bureau members at World Dairy Expo. • Talked about the farm economy on the local news with my family’s farm as a backdrop. • Spoke at a cow milking demonstration at the state fair. Just saying I’m a “public relations director” doesn’t conjure up the dual-roles of editor, writer, photographer, promoter and spokesman. So my standard answer is that I’m blessed with a job that meshes my zest for agriculture, journalism and politics…and most friends and family seem fine to leave it at that.
{from Casey Langan} If you live on a farm, this might sound familiar. Yes, you can tell people you’re a farmer, but on any given day a combination of these labels might be more accurate: mechanic, agronomist, gardener, conservationist, nutritionist, veterinarian, trucker, manager, bookkeeper, accountant, marketer, investor, spokesperson and the list goes on. Any one of us might be asked what Farm Bureau does. Once again, there’s no short answer. Farm Bureau advocates for agriculture and influences public policy and elections. Countless educational, promotional and fundraising efforts are conducted locally by 61 county Farm Bureaus. Ag in the Classroom, the Institute leadership program, and the Women’s and Young Farmer and Agriculturist committees, each are worthy programs sponsored by active supporters of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Foundation. As our cover shows, for the last 80 years we’ve also been proud to be affiliated with an insurance company that was created by farmers, for farmers. With the help of this magazine, we’ve been telling you what Farm Bureau does for the last four years. Just like the 24 issues that preceded it, the one in your hands gives you a look at the great things Farm Bureau is doing. As Farm Bureau members you are part of an organization that values what you do for agriculture and rural Wisconsin. No matter how you define it, we know that explaining what you do cannot be done with a word-one answer. Casey Langan Rural Route Editor Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation
Editor Casey Langan 608.828.5711
Assistant Editor/Designer Sheri Sutton 262.949.2418
Contributor Amy Manske 608.828.5706
Address of Publication Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation PO Box 5550 1241 John Q. Hammons Dr. Madison, WI 53705-0550 Postmaster: Send address changes to Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation PO Box 5550 Madison, WI 53705-0550
Contact Information 608.836.5575 800.261.FARM (3276) www.wfbf.com info.demingway@wfbf.com “Like” us on Facebook facebook.com/WIFarmBureau Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/WIFarmBureau
WFBF Board of Directors Jim Holte, Elk Mound, (President) Richard Gorder, Mineral Point, (Vice President) Dave Daniels, Union Grove Jerry Bradley, Sun Prairie Joe Bragger, Independence Kevin Krentz, Berlin Rosie Lisowe, Chilton Wayne Staidl, Peshtigo Don Radtke, Merrill Nicole Adrian, Platteville (Women’s Committee Chair) Tim Clark, Beaver Dam (YFA Committee Chair) Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Rural Route (ISSN 39940) (USPS 1082-1368), the official publication of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, is published six times per year in February/March, April/May, June/July, August/ September, October/November and December/ January. Subscription of $5 is included in Farm Bureau dues. Periodical postage is paid at Madison, Wisconsin. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without written consent. For advertising rates and information: Wisconsin accounts contact Slack Attack at 608.222.7630 or barbara@slackattack.com. National accounts contact Hurst & Associates at 800.397.8908 or hurstp19@comcast.net. For general inquiries, contact Casey Langan at 608.828.5711 or clangan@wfbf.com.
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news
‘Friend of Farm Bureau’ for Five Wisconsin Lawmakers
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ive of Wisconsin’s 10 federal lawmakers have been recognized with the ‘Friend of Farm Bureau’ award. Every two years, lawmakers who have advocated for agriculture during the previous congressional session are recognized with the award. The voting records of U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin and U.S. Representatives Paul Ryan, Tom Petri, Reid Ribble and Sean Duffy met the requirements for the award. Each was approved by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors. “These recipients supported policies that Wisconsin farm families achieve profitability with less regulatory interference, wise infrastructural improvements and increase demand for
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin
U.S. farm products through new uses and enhanced trade opportunities,” said Jim Holte, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation President. “Wisconsin farm families appreciate the work of these lawmakers who understand the importance of our state’s $88 billion agricultural economy,” Holte said. “These lawmakers cast critical votes to pass the 2014 U.S. Farm Bill and the long-sought improvements to our nation’s ports, locks and dams in the Water Resources Reform Development Act. We also appreciated their efforts in response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s misguided attempt to expand its authority with the Clean Water Act.”
U.S. Representative Paul Ryan
U.S. Representative Reid Ribble
U.S. Representative Tom Petri
U.S. Representative Sean Duffy
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80 Years
for Rural Mutual Insurance Company Anniversary provides Rural Mutual opportunity for reflection
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any companies form during prosperity. Some even form during a recession. Few can say they were born during the Great Depression, except for Rural Mutual Insurance Company. Eighty years have passed since those humble beginnings, and as the company eagerly celebrates amidst awards and recognition, it also takes some time to reflect and reminisce on 80 years of service.
A Not-So-Welcoming Party The early 1930s, considered to be the worst economic period in U.S. history, did not take pity on farmers. After suffering through low prices through the 1920s, things worsened once the stock market crashed in 1929. To keep up with mounting debts, farmers expanded their productions, only to find that prices dropped more. Overproduction and low demand devastated the market. Add in the Dust Bowl, and you have a recipe for complete agricultural disaster. “Unless something is done for the American farmer we will have revolution in the countryside within less than 12 months,” American Farm Bureau President Edward A. O’Neill famously said in 1933.
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The Early Years Because of their high-risk status to insurance companies, farmers were often unable to find affordable insurance. In order to provide automobile coverage to members, Wisconsin Farm Bureau leaders incorporated the Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Wisconsin on January 29, 1934. In June 1935, the company opened its doors for the first time at 744 Williamson Street in Madison. Almost 400 policies were issued immediately. Two years later, that number had grown to 2,200. Through 1949, the company focused on expanding its product lines. Most notably, they were the first in the state to offer the Farm Protector Policy, which included general farm liability, medical expense, employer’s liability custom farming and coverage for livestock killed on highways. Twenty years after its incorporation, Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Wisconsin had accumulated a $1 million surplus and had evolved into the Rural Mutual Casualty Company, the Rural Mutual Fire Insurance Company and the Rural Security Life Company.
The Times Are a-Changin’ Establishing their place in their market, the companies merged into Rural Mutual Insurance Company in 1957. The following decades were defined by change, including adding a
Wisconsin farm bureau federation
number of new policy offerings and marketing agreements. After moving to a new building on Mineral Point Road in 1970, the company continued to add new, innovative technologies to help service customers and stay ahead of the curve.
Onward and Upward Today, Rural Mutual is well positioned according to Peter Pelizza, the company’s Chief Executive Officer. “Holding the position as a leading farm insurance provider in the state of Wisconsin has been our mainstay. However, expanding our footprint in the state to include a significant market share of personal as well as commercial protection is something we are proud of and will continue to cultivate,” Pelizza said. This year Rural Mutual received the recognition as a “Ward’s 50® Top Performer” for the sixth consecutive year, awarded to the top 50 property and casualty companies in the United States. “I am very proud to be associated with such a fine group of employees and agents, who are the compelling reason for this ongoing success,” Pelizza said. “Of course, Rural Mutual would never have survived without all of its policyholders,” he added. “Awards and accolades are a great honor, but they pale in comparison to all of the wonderful relationships the company has forged over the years.”
news
Volunteers for Agriculture Make More Endorsements for November 4 Election
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he Volunteers for Agriculture, the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s political action committee, has made several additional endorsements for the November 4 general election. “Farm Bureau members from these legislative districts personally interviewed the candidates in each of these open legislative races,” said Paul Zimmerman, Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Executive Director of Governmental Relations. “Their commitment to seek out and endorse candidates that support and understand agricultural issues is to be commended. I’m confident the candidates that our members endorsed can win and will represent farmers with a strong voice in the state legislature.” Recently announced endorsements for open Senate seats include: Devin LeMahieu (R) 9th District, Steve Nass (R) 11th District, Howard Marklein (R) 17th District and Van Wanggaard (R) 21st District. Incumbents Sen. Frank Lasee (R) 1st District and Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D) 27th District also received endorsements. The VFA endorsed eight candidates seeking open Assembly seats: Joel Kitchens (R) 1st District, Terry Katsma (R) 26th District, Tyler Vorpagel (R) 27th District, Adam Jarchow (R) 28th District, Cody Horlacher (R) 33rd District, Dick Cates (D) 51st District, Jesse Kremer (R) 59th District and James Edming (R) 87th District. Incumbents Rep. Joel Kleefisch (R) 38th District, Rep. David Murphy (R) 56th District and Rep. John Spiros (R) 86th District also received recent endorsements.
Governor Scott Walker 8
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Brad Schimel
Glenn Grothman Wisconsin farm bureau federation
Senate and Assembly Endorsements
“Farm Bureau members from these legislative districts personally interviewed the candidates in each of these open legislative races. Their commitment to seek out and endorse candidates that support and understand agricultural issues is to be commended. I’m confident the candidates that our members endorsed can win and will represent farmers with a strong voice in the state legislature.” - Paul Zimmerman With regard to statewide races, in addition to its endorsement of Scott Walker for Governor, the VFA endorsed Waukesha County District Attorney Brad Schimel to be Wisconsin’s next Attorney General. The Volunteers for Agriculture Committee is comprised of 18 farmers from across the state. It was formed to give farmers a more direct role in electing leaders who best represent agriculture’s interests. In other election news, the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Board of Directors endorsed State Senator Glenn Grothman in the race to represent Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional seat being vacated by Congressman Tom Petri who is not seeking another term.
• Frank Lasee (R-De Pere) 1st Senate District • Devin LeMahieu (R-Oostburg) 9th Senate District • Steve Nass (R-Whitewater) 11th Senate District • Scott Fitzgerald (R-Juneau) 13th Senate District • Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) 17th Senate District • Van Wanggaard (R-Racine) 21st Senate District • Terry Moulton (R-Chippewa Falls) 23rd Senate District • Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton) 27th Senate District • Jerry Petrowski (R-Marathon) 29th Senate District • Kathleen Vinehout (D-Alma) 31st Senate District • Joel Kitchens (R-Sturgeon Bay) 1st Assembly District • Andre Jacque (R-Sister Bay) 2nd Assembly District • Al Ott (R-Forest Junction) 3rd Assembly District • Gary Tauchen (R-Bonduel) 6th Assembly District • Dale Kooyenga (R-Brookfield) 14th Assembly District • Evan Goyke (D-Milwaukee) 18th Assembly District • Paul Tittl (R-Manitowoc) 25th Assembly District • Terry Katsma (R-Oostburg) 26th Assembly District • Tyler Vorpagel (R-Plymouth) 27th Assembly District • Adam Jarchow (R-Balsam Lake) 28th Assembly District • John Murtha (R-Baldwin) 29th Assembly District • Dean Knudson (R-Hudson) 30th Assembly District • Amy Loudenbeck (R-Clinton) 31st Assembly District • Tyler August (R-Lake Geneva) 32nd Assembly District • Cody Horlacher (R-Mukwonago) 33rd Assembly District • Jeff Mursau (R-Crivitz) 36th Assembly District • Joel Kleefisch (R-Oconomowoc) 38th Assembly District • Kevin Petersen (R-Waupaca) 40th Assembly District • Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan) 41st Assembly District • Keith Ripp (R-Lodi) 42nd Assembly District • Andy Jorgensen (D-Milton) 43rd Assembly District • Debra Kolste (D-Janesville) 44th Assembly District • Travis Tranel (R-Cuba City) 49th Assembly District • Ed Brooks (R-Reedsburg) 50th Assembly District • Dick Cates (D-Spring Green) 51st Assembly District • Michael Schraa (R-Oshkosh) 53rd Assembly District • David Murphy (R-Greenville) 56th Assembly District • Jesse Kremer (R-Kewaskum) 59th Assembly District • Samantha Kerkman (R-Genoa City) 61st Assembly District • Robin Vos (R-Burlington) 63rd Assembly District • Peter Barca (D-Kenosha) 64th Assembly District • Tom Larson ((R-Colfax) 67th Assembly District • Kathy Bernier (R-Chippewa Falls) 68th Assembly District • Bob Kulp (R-Stratford) 69th Assembly District • Amy Sue Vruwink (D-Milladore) 70th Assembly District • Scott Krug (R-Rome) 72nd Assembly District • Stephen Smith (D-Shell Lake) 75th Assembly District • Mandy Wright (D-Wausau) 85th Assembly District • John Spiros (R-Marshfield) 86th Assembly District • James Edming (R-Glen Flora) 87th Assembly District • John Nygren (R-Marinette) 89th Assembly District • Chris Danou (D-Trempealeau) 92nd Assembly District • Warren Petryk (R-Eleva) 93rd Assembly District • Steve Doyle (D-Onalaska) 94th Assembly District • Lee Nerison (R-Westby) 96th Assembly District
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Wisconsin Farm Bureau
Strategic Plan 2015-2020
Strategic Plan Early in 2014 the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Board and staff began work on a strategic plan. Ten listening sessions were held with members, staff and major affiliates producing three key themes: • Strengthen communication at all levels • Increase the use of technology • Collaborate/coordinate more with key partners/across generations The board of directors took these recommendations and established the following strategic priorities: • Build bridges with other agricultural and consumer groups • Grow leadership capacity in Farm Bureau members • Encourage more dialogue with all members • Evaluative and rebrand all programs and benefits The planning team took these strategic priorities and developed 26 goals under the four priorities to make up the strategic plan. The Board adopted the strategic plan in August. Major components include:
Evaluate and rebrand all programs and benefits. • Develop new materials highlighting the YFA, Women’s and Ag in the Classroom. • Identify new member benefits with universal appeal. • Improve member engagement with district training and listening sessions.
Build bridges with agricultural and consumer groups.
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• Hold a summit with other ag groups to promote collaboration on shared priorities. • Produce an electronic newsletter for our state lawmakers • More outreach from the WFBF Board of Directors.
Grow leadership capacity in Farm Bureau members. • Create work group to determine the direction of the Women’s Committee, and make recommendation to the WFBF Board. • Create task force charged with presenting a plan to enhance the WFBF Foundation to assure its financial security to provide for Farm Bureau programs like YFA, Women’s, Institute and Ag in the Classroom activities. • Generate more sponsorship revenue. • Encourage and prepare more farmers to run for public office. • Train volunteers to dialogue with the general public on agricultural issues. • Find ways to strengthen under-achieving county Farm Bureaus.
Encourage more dialogue with all members. • More outreach to associate members, including mailing a copy of Rural Route magazine annually to associate members. • Gain efficiencies by collecting more member emails and deliver all county newsletters digitally. • Conduct bi-annual survey of member needs, experiences and opinions. • Explore real-time dialog technologies for members and staff to communicate.
Mission Statement Lead the farm and rural community through legislative representation, education, public relations, leadership development and providing services and benefits to members.
Sand County Foundation and Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation are proud to announce the finalists for the prestigious Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award, which honors Wisconsin landowner achievement in voluntary stewardship and management of natural resources.
Finalists Named in Leopold Conservation Award Program
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iven in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award recognizes extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation. It inspires other landowners through these examples and provides a visible forum where farmers, ranchers and other private landowners are recognized as conservation leaders. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage, which he called “an evolutionary possibility and an ecological necessity.� The 2014 Leopold Conservation Award recipient will be announced at the Wisconsin Board of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection meeting in Madison on November 19. The award recipient will be presented with $10,000 and a crystal depicting Aldo Leopold at the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Annual Meeting on December 7 in Wisconsin Dells. The Leopold Conservation Award in Wisconsin is made possible through the generous support of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Badgerland Financial, Alliant Energy Foundation, American Transmission Company, DuPont Pioneer, Farm Credit, The Mosaic Company and The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation.
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David and Leslie Meuer
own and operate Meuer Farm, LLC, a crop and beef cattle farm in Chilton.
Jack and Pat Herricks
along with their three children and their families, operate a dairy farm in Cashton.
Milk Source, LLC
of Freedom, which operates four dairy farms in Wisconsin and one in Michigan.
Wisconsin farm bureau federation
news
Dairy Margin Protection Program Sign-up What is it? The 2014 U.S. Farm Bill includes a new, voluntary, risk management tool for dairy farmers called the Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy). It replaces the Market Income Loss Contract (MILC) program. Participants receive protection when the price difference between the all-milk price and the average feed cost (margin) falls below the $4 minimum coverage level, for two consecutive months. • Farmers can annually decide what level of margin insurance to purchase for additional risk coverage. • Base level is $4 with additional buy-up options at 50 cent increments up to $8. • Farmers annually select between 25-90 percent coverage for their production history. • Insurance premiums for the first 4 million pounds of milk are sold at a reduced rate. Additionally, these premiums will be sold at a discounted rate for the first two years of the program. • Participants cannot be enrolled in both the Livestock Gross Margin for Dairy Program (LGM-Dairy) and MPP-Dairy.
When? The registration period began in September and runs through November 28 for the 2014 and 2015 coverage years. Dairy farmers will have an annual opportunity to opt in to the program. • Once enrolled, farmers are in the program for the duration of the farm bill.
Where and How? To sign up, visit your local FSA office where you must provide: • An established production history via form CCC-781 • Payment of the $100 annual administrative fee and possible payment of any premium (if elected).
Take Note: • Dairies must comply with highly erodible land and wetland conservation requirements. • The MPP-Dairy program does not apply to the farm bill’s Adjusted Gross Income provisions. • Dairies enrolled in LGM-Dairy may sign up for MPP-Dairy but the MPP-Dairy will not go into effect until the LGMDairy has been cancelled or until after the target month of marketings.
For More Information: Dairy farmers can obtain more information on MPP-Dairy at FSA county offices or online at www.fsa.usda.gov; click on Price Support. october | november 2014
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news
Meats Send Food Prices Rising S
maller herds, tight supplies and high international demand for meat and dairy have sent retail food prices rising at Wisconsin supermarkets according to the latest Wisconsin Farm Bureau Marketbasket Survey. “Historically high beef and pork prices are the reason that our survey found a nearly four percent increase in grocery prices since spring,” said Amy Manske, Communications Coordinator for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau.
SURVEY RESULTS Farm Bureau’s informal survey shows the total cost of 16 food items that can be used to prepare one or more meals was $51.97. It marked a 3.9 percent increase since March when the survey items averaged $50.04. Over the last year, the survey’s price increased about 3.6 percent. Of the 16 items surveyed, 11 increased in price while five decreased in price compared to Farm Bureau’s spring survey. The biggest price swing in the survey was for sirloin tip roast. It increased more than 11 percent since spring of 2014. Its average price was $4.85 a pound. Now its average is $5.39 a pound. “Meat is really the story of 2014 when you talk food prices,” Manske explained. “Our survey also saw increases for ground chuck, bacon and chicken breast.” “Prolonged periods of drought in western and southern states took a toll on our nation’s cattle herd,” Manske said. “The number of cattle in the United States has
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shrunk to a size we have not seen in 60 years. Coupled with international strong demand and the tightest meat supplies in a decade, it’s no surprise that meat prices are up.” Strong international demand has sent dairy prices to historic highs. The price for a pound of shredded mild cheddar cheese increased more than 10 percent since March, to a statewide average of $4.85. Items with the greatest percentage decrease in price were Russet potatoes (a five-pound bag decreased 14.1 percent from $2.34 to $2.01), eggs (one dozen large Grade A fell 8.1 percent from $1.86 to $1.71) and all-purpose flour (a five-pound bag decreased 6.9 percent from $2.47 to $2.30).
STATE PRICE LESS THAN NATIONAL Wisconsin’s $51.97 Marketbasket is less than the American Farm Bureau Federation’s national survey of the same 16 food items. AFBF’s survey rang in at $54.26. Despite the lower overall price, five of the 16 items recently surveyed in Wisconsin were higher than the national average.
FARMER’S SHARE IS JUST $8.32 Over the last three decades retail grocery prices have gradually increased while the share of the average dollar spent on food that farm families receive has dropped. In the mid-1970s, farmers received about one-third of consumer retail food expenditures in grocery stores and restaurants. Since then that figure has decreased steadily and is now about 16 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Using that percentage across the board, the farmer’s share of this quarter’s $51.97 grocery bill would be $8.32. Despite higher prices, the USDA says Americans will still spend approximately 10 percent of their disposable annual income on food, the lowest average in the world. The Marketbasket survey is a quarterly look at the trends in food pricing in Wisconsin in relation to changing farm prices, weather and wholesale and retail food marketing. Members of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau collected price samples of 16 basic food items in 24 communities across Wisconsin in September.
Wisconsin farm bureau federation
Give Back. Give Dairy. GiveDairy.com When you “adopt” a dairy cow at GiveDairy.com you will be providing a rarely donated, nutrient-rich product to your neighbors who struggle with hunger. Giving is easy, just visit GiveDairy.com and donate a day’s ($36), week’s ($252) or month’s ($1,080) worth of milk production. And, to make it official, you’ll even receive an adoption certificate—a fun and perfect way to let everyone know about your new bovine addition!
Give the Gift of Dairy Today! GiveDairy.com Partners
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M
n a M
on a
Mission By Casey Langan
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ichael Frank wants to replace the tool belt as we know it. Instead of the weight of tools riding on the hips and pulling on the lower back, this Sauk County Farm Bureau member has designed a vest that comfortably does the work of a tool belt. Frank, owner of Advance Climate Control in Sauk County, has worked in the heating and cooling business for 30 years. He recalls “getting up from a chair like an 80-year-old man,” when he was 33. “My back was all torn up from tool belts.”
Necessity is the mother of invention. While watching ‘Star Trek’ he got an idea for a vest that could hold tools and gadgets, instead of a tightfitting tool belt. After some research, he bought a small Florida-based company called Shop Pockets that made vests. The general premise was there: the vest used more of the body for support, and eliminated all of the sagging and adjusting of a tool belt. However it needed work. They were cut too long, soaked up sweat, and weren’t designed to attach to tool pouches. So over the years, Frank perfected his product. Advanced Work Products is now open for business in the Village of Plain. The custom-cut vests are still called Shop Pockets. The $99 product includes an extender that allows a winter coat to be worn underneath. The vests feature a unique, patented accessory adapter that attaches to most commercial tool pouches. It works with all safety harnesses on the market. Cell phones fit inside the Velcro pockets attached to the front. There’s also a new padded pocket accessory that holds an ipad or tablet securely. The vests come in colors of bright yellow, neon green, orange and gray. They don’t absorb dirt and sweat and only needs to be washed a few times a year. Wisconsin farm bureau federation
Three-legged stool To be successful, Frank knows he needs a good product, a way to manufacture it and marketing. He knew he had the product in place when he was a recipient of the INPEX award at a high-profile invention show in Pittsburgh in 2005.
“Farmers wear them for fencing, veterinary work and maintenance,” said Frank, who admits to having youthful dreams of being a dairy farmer while working on a neighbor’s farm as a teenager. Instead, the River Valley High School graduate attended Western Technical College in La Crosse and conducted an apprenticeship with the Steamfitters in Madison. Today he lives
Frustrations ensued after working with a series of manufacturers. Despite being told to have the product in Spring Green and in his free time plays guitar in a band called made offshore, he sought a local solution. He met Kim Ewers The Shady Clientele. who owned Sew What Embroidery in Spring Green. Along Frank carries his personal and business insurance with the with employee, Sue Nabbefeld, the trio fills orders from their Rural Mutual Insurance Company. manufacturing space inside the Plain Green TTEC facility. The For more information on his Wisconsin-made product, visit state-of-the-art business incubator is owned by the Village of shoppockets.com, call 855.588.2441 or like Shop Pockets on Plain and includes Madison Area Technical College classrooms. Facebook. With the product and manufacturing in place, the final piece to this three-legged stool was letting others know about Shop Pockets. A cousin has worked with him to meet with distributors such as Connie Safety in Verona and the Union House in the Twin Cities. “It’s a unique opportunity,” Frank said. “There’s nothing like it out there.” “A lot of people have told me they’ve saved their career by wearing this,” he said, “and employers say it reduces workman’s compensation claims.” Beyond electricians, carpenters, plumbers and window washers, Frank Suburban . Commercial . Agricultural . Horse Barns & Arenas Quality Buildings says Shop Pockets are handy for Since 1958 Toll Free 800. 558. 7800 . waltersbuildings.com fishing, hunting and farm work.
When It’s Time to Build . . .
Build With A Quality Builder.
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Members
Farm Bureau From the kitchens of Steve Freese’s Family
Christmas Cookies Eleanor Kraus (Steve’s cousin) 3 teaspoons baking powder ¾ teaspoon soda Pinch of salt 8 cups of flour
1 cup shortening 2 cups of sugar 2 eggs 1 cup of milk 1 teaspoon vanilla
Mix ingreditents. Chill dough one hour before rolling out and cutting with cookie cutters. Bake 8-10 minutes at 350.
Cookie Icing Paint Steve Freese 1 tablespoon Meringue Powder 2 cups Confectioners Sugar 6 tablespoons Water Beat the meringue powder, confectioners sugar and water until the icing forms stiff peaks 10-12 minutes at high speed with a mixer. Use food color to decorate and paint with brush or squeeze bottle.
Ginger Snaps Barb Price and Dawn Freese (Steve’s mother-in-law and wife) 1 cup brown sugar ¾ cup lard or shortening ¼ cup dark molasses (Brer Rabbit Mild) 1 egg ¼ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda 2 cups of flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ginger
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream sugar and shortening, add egg and stir. Stir in molasses. Mix flour with soda and spices in a separate bowl. Add dry mix to creamed mix gradually, stirring as you go. Roll into walnut size balls. Roll in white sugar and bake on greased cookie sheet for 8-10 minutes.
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WFBF’s Chief Administrative Officer, Steve Freese, recently completed a cookbook to commemorate his family farm’s 140th year. For more recipes from him and his family, visit wfbf. com/newspublications/farm-bureau-flavor. Wisconsin farm bureau federation
Photo submitted by Sam Zimmermann, Wausau Taken in Plain by Casey Langan
Photo submitted by Kate Griswold, Black Earth
Photo submitted by Charles Jackson, Pickerel
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Wisconsin Farm Bureau members live and work on some of the most beautiful pieces of land. On this page we highlight those sights and special moments. Please email your best photos (high resolution jpgs, 4x6 inches at 300 dpi) to ssutton@wfbf.com. Due to the high volume of photos we receive, we are unable to publish every photo.
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Visit wfbf.com to read more blogs! Grandpa’s Handwritten Obituary
By Cheri Klussendorf, Farming with my Three Sons
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ale had an awesome assignment for the last “project” of the year. He had to make a family tree three generations back from him. Now this tree only needed to be 8x10 inches in finalized form. However, Kale takes after me and it either needed to go big or go home. So together we made a large tree on tag board and found some great red apple post-it notes to hang from the tree. On each post-it note was the name of the individual with birth and death dates along with where they were born. The goal at the end of the project was to compare all the kids’ family trees to see if anyone was related in the class. Now since we just moved to Medford eight years ago I convinced Kale that he wasn’t going to be related to anyone. It was great to get all the information together with Kale. We went back five generations just because we could. I even learned a few things about my family that I never knew before. For instance, my paternal great grandmother Meta died very young and my great grandfather Irvin was remarried to Grandma Clara. My maternal great grandmother was bohemian. Who would have thought? We found out that my paternal great grandfather Irvin was born on March 17, 1900; this was the first St. Patrick’s day baby of the family. The second was Kale who was born on March 17, 2004. It was a lot of fun putting this all together with Kale. He of course got an A on the project and came home to say his was the biggest tree. I recently had to update the family tree project just about two weeks after it was due. It was not a birth date since I am done having children, but a death date. It is one of the hardest things for people to understand when someone
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is taken away. On June 8, 2014, my 32nd birthday, I got a present that no one expected when my grandfather David Timm joined the crowd in heaven, after a long battle with cancer. My grandfather was all about holidays, birthdays and anniversaries. He sent cards for every special occasion. He would never tell you how “young” he was; he would just say well it is the 44th anniversary of my 39th birthday. Grandpa taught me more than anyone on how to not yell at my children but to be one step ahead of them, keeping them busy so they couldn’t get into trouble. Like when he would pay my siblings and I a penny for each pine cone we could pick up under the trees at his house. We would easily pick three or four brown paper grocery bags full of pinecones. We would each get a dollar. Now this happened every time we went over to visit our grandparents. It wasn’t until years later when I was in college that he let it slip that he would dump the pinecones back under the tree when we left so they would be ready to be picked again. I wonder if this would work with rocks except I wouldn’t have to put them back they seem to just show up everywhere. It seems only fitting that my grandpa, a true American farmer and a marine, was laid to rest on Flag Day. The family all rode on antique tractors in the funeral procession. All the men in the family sprinkled ground from each of their farms over the vault; his three great grandsons (my boys) added corn, wheat and hay to the ground where he lay. This was followed by the bugle playing taps and a marine reciting revelry. What a fitting tribute to a great man. Some people ask, especially my mom, where I learned to write like I do. I never knew until I read the obituary that my grandfather wrote himself just a few days before he died. Luckily, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
Wisconsin farm bureau federation
David Richard Timm, A Marine Who Fought To The End, passed away on June 8, 2014. He had celebrated the 44th anniversary of his 39th birthday. “Never forget your birthday, you need to know it if you get sick,” mine’s January 28, 1931. I was the son of Irvin and Meta Timm (stepmother Clara). I have gone home to heaven to join my first wife, Frances Marie Griesbach. We were married on June 20, 1956. She preceded me in death on February 2, 1995. As Frances took her last breaths, I whispered, “see you in heaven .” Some years later, while pursuing my hobby of collecting antiques, on January 24, I met an antique I really like, Virginia Becher. We were married on May 28, 2001. As hard as it is to leave Ginger behind, I know her children will watch over her for me. I was born on a cold winter day in the midst of the Great Depression . I grew up in the Town of Freedom with my brother Bob (or did we grow up? We still enjoyed toy trains), exploring the shores of Duck Creek. I attended Maple Grove School and the Moravian Church. Then high school and next the Marine Corps. Frances and I raised our four children on the family farm in the Town of Osborn . After losing Frances, I found a second love, Ginger. I have been blessed with so many. Including my four children , Allen ( Jean), Sally (special friend Art), Ken ( Joanne), and Kathy. My 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren , Becky (Eric) Stephani and their daughters, Bella and Audri; Cheri (Ryan) Klussendorf and their sons, Kale, Owen and Max; Eric (Erica) Timm; Amanda, Mark and Kelly Timm . My one and only sibling (and fellow Packer fan) Robert (Carol) Timm and their children , Patty, Jeff, Kevin and Amy, and their families. Virginia’s eight children : Sharon , Conrad, Jesse, Randall (deceased), Bonnie, Julie, Dorothy, Lance, and their families. And many very special in-laws from both marriages. When you stopped in for a visit during my antique years, you likely saw me wearing a tattered flannel shirt and patched blue jeans. I’d be on my computer looking for tractors or trains, but more than happy to sit on the porch and talk about the good ol’days. Being a gentle man who lived a quiet life, it is my wish not to have a funeral . If you find yourself reflecting about me, take a walk in the country. Feel the breeze, the sun , and the gentle rains. Soak in the smells and enjoy the sounds. On a hot humid day you really can hear the corn grow. Walk in the field, you’ll hear it crackle. At night if you look to the sky, you’ll see the lights of heaven shining through the stars. Enjoy what God has given us. We have angels among us. The family, friends, and neighbors, who show up when it snows or the grass gets too long, or your just not up to getting the mail or paper. Somehow they notice. They do your pills and bills, so all that stays straight. They even take the garbage out. The dished get caught up and the house a little cleaner. You’ll find them in the healthcare workers that when you are sick, a daughter who is at your side, just because you asked her to be. They do all this without ‘stepping on a man’s toes’. I want to thank all of my angels. Every farmer puts his land to rest for the winter. On springs horizon it is brought back to life. God has put this farmer to rest, and with a spring in his step, Iris in hand, he walks the horizon to a new life. On the way home from treatments, Dad would say “Let me known when we are on the final stretch to home-sweet-home.” You’re on that final stretch Dad.
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County Kernels Adams County
Shawano County
Adams County Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom program helped students make lip-balm for a Mother’s Day gift and taught them about soybeans and beeswax. Sammy Soil is always a favorite lesson for the volunteers to do because it teaches about soils and how things grow. The Girl Scouts and Brownies learned how to plant seeds and grow a garden. Heritage Days was a big event for all of the fourth grade students in the district where they learned about historical events. The students made “God’s Eye” with popsicle sticks and yarn and learned how to grind corn and make corn meal out of it so they could make Johnny Cakes.
Shawano County YFA volunteers organized a 5K Dairy Dash & Stroll in conjunction with Brunch on the Farm at Kurowski Dairy in Bonduel. Seventy-three participants registered for the event. The event raised $281, and Monsanto matched the funds through the Harvest to End Hunger WI program. Nearly $600 was donated to Shawano County food pantries. Each runner was offered chocolate milk and water at the end of their run. The winners received a cow bell, Farm Bureau computer bag and cheese curds.
Trempealeau County
Clark County
YFA members throughout District 8 participated in a tour of Clark County and its rich agriculture diversity. Members toured Grassland Dairy, Munson Bridge Winery and Holland Family Cheese.
Samples of an arm roast was served to more than 50 people as a beef promotion activity by the Trempealeau County Farm Bureau at Clippers IGA in Whitehall. The recipe they used is from the handout “Confident Cooking with Beef.” Crystal Johnson and Amber Radatz are shown manning the beef station.
Waupaca County The Waupaca High School agri-science greenhouse was in full bloom May 10 for the fourth annual Spring Fling Planting Day. A more perfect day couldn’t have been ordered. In spite of the nice weather (when many of the ladies attending would have rather been outside working in their gardens) 25 people attended. This year’s program taught how to garden using straw bales. Attendees also learned how to cut glass bottles to make pretty lanterns for their gardens and everyone got to make and take one home. Ms. Jenifer Erb, the agri-science teacher and FFA advisor at the Waupaca High School, gave a tour of the greenhouse and planting room.
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Wisconsin farm bureau federation
From Dairy to
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Story by Heidi Clausen Pictures by Wendy Kannel
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reg Zwald will be the first to admit he didn’t know the first thing about growing berries when he started White Pine Berry Farm in 2012. “I knew zero about berries,” he said. “I liked to eat them.” Until a few years ago, Zwald had spent all his working life in a dairy farm partnership with his brother, Bob. The learning curve going from dairy to berries has been steep, but Zwald and his wife, Irma, have no regrets. At an age when most people are making retirement plans, Greg, 61, is ramping up a new venture. In fact, the St. Croix County Farm Bureau members drew from their retirement savings to launch their berry farm. Patience has been a must as they still wait to reap the rewards of this investment. “Boy, it doesn’t cash-flow the first couple years,” Greg said. “We didn’t break even last year. We’re hoping to show a good profit this year.” In this respect, berry farming isn’t that much different from dairy farming. “It’s like deciding to become a dairy farmer,” he said. “You own nothing. You have to buy calves, raise them for two years, then start milking, and there’s still a delay before you see much money coming in.” Now in their third year, with fields well-established, a bumper crop coming ripe and eager pickers waiting at the farm gate, Greg is hopeful that they’ve turned a corner. “It should be pretty good yields this year,” he said.
After 40 years milking cows, St. Croix County farmer finds agricultural career shift challenging, satisfying.
Plans change If someone had told him a few years ago that he would be growing berries instead of milking cows, Greg says, he would’ve said “no way.” But after 40 years as a dairy farmer, his game plan changed after Bob and his wife, Kay, welcomed their son and daughter back to the family’s 600-cow dairy near Hammond. The farm’s succession plan changed, prompting Greg and Irma to consider their next move. “I always enjoyed the dairy farm,” he said, but “it was a good time for me to leave. Once we decided to leave the farm, I had to figure out what to do.” Not wanting to work for someone else and with acreage available, crop farming would’ve been an “easy decision,” he said. “I always thought selling directly to the customer was a great idea; I promoted that on the milk board,” he said. On an old farmstead that the dairy had rented before the Zwalds bought it in August 2012, the couple set out to build a mainly U-pick berry operation from scratch. “For 10 years, nothing was raised here, just grass and weeds,” he said.
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Wanting to boost his horticultural know-how, Greg took two courses with UW-River Falls professor Brian Smith and visited successful berry farms near Bayfield. “A big change was the network of people as dairy farmers and how open dairy farmers are,” he said. Berry growers tend not to be as willing to divulge their trade secrets, he said. “It’s more like other businesses.” White Pine Berries opened for the season in mid-June, a month after sighting the season’s first blossom. They’re typically open until about Thanksgiving. They grow more than four acres of strawberries, including several varieties such as Anapolis, Honeoye Cavendish and Jewel -- a perennial favorite. They’re also trying some Seascape everbearing and Cabot berries. Right: Jessica “We try to spread out the harvest,” Miller, a UW-River Falls collegiate he said. Farm Bureau As new growers, Greg said, last member, interned year’s late spring presented a challenge: with the Zwalds Some varieties ripened simultaneously, this year. Miller is and the farm wasn’t drawing enough a native of Spring pickers to keep up. Green and a senior “It was my first year. People didn’t at UW-River Falls. know about us,” he said. “There were 10 cars of people a day, and we needed 30.” Social media, particularly Facebook, has been the farm’s best advertising tactic, Greg said. Another good selling tactic has been letting people taste-test the different berries so they can pick the ones they like best, he said. Along with strawberries, White Pine Berries features 2-1/2 acres of raspberries in gold, black and summer and fall reds; red and black currants; and an acre of blueberries.
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Their small orchard has about 100 apple trees, 25 cherry trees, 15 plum trees and a couple experimental species such as shipova, which Greg describes as “a cross between mountain ash and pear.”
Seeing ‘what sticks’ The Zwalds also grow lettuce, broccoli, watermelon, sweet corn, muskmelon, squash, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions, kohlrabi, Brussels sprouts, carrots, rhubarb and asparagus. “We’re trying a lot of things to see what sticks,” Greg said. As a dairy cooperative member, the Zwalds had a ready buyer for whatever their farm produced, he said, but “here, we need to develop a market for our products.” Produce is marketed through local farmer’s markets and hospitals. They hope to get into a couple schools this fall and are collaborating with Circle K Orchard of Beldenville.
A major selling point has been the farm’s refusal to use any herbicides, fungicides or insecticides. Straw is laid between rows to control weeds, and fields are hand-weeded. Greg said they’re considering organic certification, but they’re actually “beyond organic” because they’ve even avoided using
Wisconsin farm bureau federation
sprays approved for organic production. “So many customers love it that we haven’t used sprays, and we’re new and trying to build a bigger clientele,” he said. “We’ll see if it’s worth the time to keep customers happy, and we’ll see if we need to raise our price more.” While Greg oversees the farm, Irma, a native of El Salvador who works as a medical assistant and Spanish interpreter, handles bookkeeping. White Pine Berry Farm is located between Baldwin and Assisting with River Falls at 1482 Oak Dr., River Falls. The farm is open weeding and from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and transplanting this summer is intern from 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays. For more information, visit Jessica Miller. Her www.whitepineberryfarm.com or call 715.222.2946. first day on the job, she helped put more than 5,000 strawberry other events and even sell pies and jams on the farm, they can’t plants in the ground. because of zoning restrictions. Miller grew up on a Spring Valley dairy farm and will be a “It definitely has limited me terrifically,” he said. “As long as senior this fall at UW-River Falls with a major in agricultural we don’t charge anything, the county is OK with it.” business and minor in horticulture. In rough shape when they bought the place, the barn was The farm has become a family affair, with the Zwalds’ three grown children pitching in where they can. Their son, Andrew, a generously repaired by the previous owner, who also had a loft installed. seed salesman in Muscatine, Iowa, and his fiancée’, Kim, crafted From a window in the loft, the Zwalds can peer out across their barn quilt. the farm fields and, through a gap in the trees left by a tornado “He always is brainstorming about new possibilities,” Greg several years ago, see the family dairy farm -- and the lifestyle said. -- they left behind, just four miles away. Daughter Tanya helps with the corn maze, and another daughter, Stephanie Wipf, keeps their website and Facebook page up-to-date. The couple’s son-in-law, Jason, built two benches where visitors can relax.
Article reprinted with permission of The Country Today.
‘Park-like atmosphere’ Greg said they strive to create a “park-like atmosphere” on the farm. Visitors, including school tours, are always welcome. Along with wagon rides through the berry fields, the Zwalds offer a corn maze and pumpkin patch in the fall, a couple sheep for petting and a small, picturesque barn where they host the occasional barn dance or reception. Although they’d like to open the barn for more weddings and october | november 2014
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on the web
Member Benefits
Savings for your Family or Business
View additional WFBF member benefits and more details on our website at www.wfbf.com/benefits-membership.
Wisconsin Farm Bureau offers benefits and services to its members, covering a range of options that respond to the needs of farmers, families and businesses in Wisconsin.
Supplies & Products Case IH - Eligible Farm Bureau members will receive an incentive discount ($300 to $500) when purchasing qualifying Case IH equipment from participating dealers. The discount can be used with other discounts, promotions, rebates or offers that may be provided by Case IH or a Case IH dealership. Go to www.fbverify. com/case to see the eligible models and print your certificate. FS-Growmark Patronage - Members who are patrons of their local FS cooperative are eligible to receive patronage dividends when patronage is paid. Grainger Industrial Supply - Grainger Industrial Supply is the nation’s leading maintenance, repair and operational supplies distributor. Receive at least a 10% discount on all Grainger catalog items. For a free catalog call 608.221.3861. When ordering use the Farm Bureau account #855922019.
Auto General Motors - Eligible members may receive a $500 discount on qualifying Chevrolet, GMC or Buick vehicles they purchase or lease. Individuals must be members for at least 30 days to qualify.
Health ScriptSave® - ScriptSave is a prescription drug savings card available to you at NO COST as an added feature of your membership. Call 800.700.3957. Stroke Detection Plus - Stroke Detection Plus offers preventative medical screenings at a discounted price to Farm Bureau members. These ultrasound screenings help detect blockages that can lead to stroke, aortic aneurysms and other artery diseases. For more information, call 1.877.732.8258.
Polaris - Farm Bureau members will receive a manufacturer’s incentive discount of $200-$300 depending on the vehicle acquired. Members should negotiate their best deal with their preferred Polaris dealer and then add the manufacturer’s incentive discount to the bottom line. There is no limit to the number of incentive discounts that a Farm Bureau member may use so long as it’s no more than one per unit acquired and the acquisition(s) is/are made for their personal and/or business use. Individuals must be members for at least 30 days to qualify.
Financial
Protection Reward Protection Program - Farm Bureau pays a $500 reward to people providing information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals for arson, theft or criminal damage to a member’s property that is posted with a Farm Bureau reward sign or sticker.
AgriPlan Medical Reimbursement Program - The AgriPlanNOW! program is based on Section 105 of the IRS code and can allow farmers and other self-employed individuals to deduct 100 percent of their family’s medical expenses through their farm or business. To learn more about AgriPlan and/or sign up, go to www. tasconline.com or call 888.595.2261.
Accidental Death Policy - Members receive $1,500 in accidental death insurance for themselves and their spouse, and $500 for minors. The policy increases in value for consecutive years of membership up to $3,500.
Farm Bureau Bank - Take advantage of Farm Bureau Bank’s FDIC insured checking and savings accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, credit cards and vehicle and home loans. Go to www.farmbureaubank.com.
Insurance
Travel
Rural Mutual Insurance Company - Offering a full line of insurance and financial products for your personal, farm and business needs exclusively for Wisconsin Farm Bureau members. Our rural Wisconsin heritage assures that you’ll find in us the strong values you expect and deserve. Visit us on the web at www.ruralins.com to find your nearest Rural Mutual agent. Farm Bureau Financial Services is a dynamic multi-state insurance and investment organization serving individuals and families in not only rural areas, but also suburban and metropolitan. You can get more information about the financial services from your local Rural Insurance agent. Learn more about Farm Bureau Financial Services at www.fbfs.com.
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Office Depot - Save up to 80% on Office Depot Preferred Products along with reduced prices on ink, paper, office supplies, toner, stamps/daters, pens, pads, furniture and much more. Members get free next day delivery with free shipping on orders over $50 and terrific copy and print pricing. Visit wfbf.com/officedepot.
AAA - Members can save up to 20% on AAA membership and the enrollment fee to join AAA is waived. FB members who already belong to AAA can receive the discount by calling before their next renewal. To enroll or to add the benefit to your existing account, call 877.731.3315 and give them the group code “WI07.” AVIS Car Rental Discount Program - You can save 5%-25% on Avis’ daily and weekly rates. To receive these discounted rates, all you need to do is use your Avis Worldwide Discount number: A298849. To rent a car and enjoy benefits visit Avis. com or call Avis at 1.800.331.1212. Choice Hotels International, Inc. - Members save an average of 20% at participating Choice Brand Hotels. Call 800.258.2847 to make the required advance reservation or book online at choicehotels.com. Make sure to select “special rate/CORPID.” Request WFBF member rate using ID# 00209870.
AgriVisor - WFBF members can receive a 35% discount on daily grain, livestock and feed input marketing advice, as well as current market quotes and updates. Call 800.676.5799.
Wyndham Hotel Group - Members save 20% off the best available rate at more than 5,000 participating locations throughout North America. Mention Farm Bureau ID# 8000004288 when making your reservations. Call 877.670.7088.
The Country Today - With every new subscription or renewal, The Country Today will give a discounted rate and donate $5 to the Ag in the Classroom program. Write “Farm Bureau member” on your renewal or mention it when calling 1.800.236.4004.
*WFBF member benefits may be changed or discontinued at anytime without notice.*
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8/22/14 5:46 PM
opinion
IOH: It’s Time for Talking
A Message from WFBF President Jim Holte If ever there was a time your voice could have influence over a regulation or law: It’s now.
Here’s where your voice matters It only takes a handful of phone calls on a topic for a town or county official’s ears to perk up. So call them. Invite them to a Farm Bureau meeting, or organize Farm Bureau members to attend a town
You’re not too busy So despite it being harvest season, this discussion should be a priority. Your county Farm Bureau structure is the ideal vehicle to guide these conversations. If there was ever a time to hold a special meeting with local officials, it’s now. Working through local issues is what county Farm Bureaus are for. Now is your county Farm Bureau’s time to shine.
“If ever there was a time your voice could have influence over a regulation or law: It’s now.”
I
know the harvest season is on your mind, but it’s critical that you talk with local officials now about how Wisconsin’s implements of husbandry law will be adopted on the local level. Don’t be lulled into thinking this issue is over because the law was enacted last spring. Local ordinances and resolutions concerning weight limits need to be in place by January 15 in order for them to be in effect for next year’s growing season. Right now your town and county officials are making decisions about how this law impacts your farm in 2015. • Do your research to find out what your machinery and vehicle combinations weigh. • Don’t assume you’ll fly under the radar. • Don’t set this aside until November or December.
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or county meeting (and let them know you’re coming). It’s imperative that you have a dialogue about the options available to them and how your farm uses roadways to move farm machinery. Most importantly, be sure to emphasize that they have six options with how they address the IOH law. Let me be clear, there is no preferred option. Every option impacts every farm differently. Don’t miss your chance to have a say in this process. One of the primary responsibilities of town officials is to maintain and protect roads. Agriculture is an $88 billion industry that is dependent on these roadways. We believe these six options offer the flexibility for farmers and local governments to strike the right balance. That’s only going to happen if farmers have a reasonable conversation.
Bottom line: We want to avoid an adversarial atmosphere later by having a good dialogue today. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s leadership and staff was guided by this principle as they worked with the towns and counties associations during the crafting of the IOH law. That same sort of partnership now needs to happen on the local level. For a description of the local and county options, visit: wfbf.com/ legislative/ioh.
WFBF President since 2012, Holte is a grain and beef farmer from Elk Mound in Dunn County.
Wisconsin farm bureau federation
Time to Say ‘No’ to the EPA A Message from WFBF’s Paul Zimmerman
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f it seems that doing everything from farming to paying to your taxes has become more complicated; blame regulatory creep. While great-grandpa might have worked day and night there are a lot of things he didn’t have to deal with. Today’s farmers must be mindful of many program changes brought on by the farm bill, OSHA labor regulations, and restrictions, registrations and prohibitions when it comes to pesticide application. How did it get this way? When Washington regulators put these things in place they didn’t stop there. They also determined that their agency had the authority to require you to do other things. They said they wouldn’t enforce those rules today, but may choose to do later. That’s the definition of regulatory creep. It’s happening again. This scenario is central to the current debate over the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed expansion of the Clean Water Act. The EPA has proposed to expand its authority under the federal Clean Water Act to regulate not just navigable waters, but any surface waters connected to them. This could include grass waterways or even that low spot on the back 40 that has standing water after a big rain. After all, it eventually drains somewhere. The EPA points to a list of more than 50 exemptions for agriculture (standards from the Natural Resources Conservation Service). While this is true; these exemptions could be repealed in the future by EPA. The EPA and its advocates say the agency has the jurisdiction to regulate anything that is wet, but is choosing not to at this time. Both the Wisconsin Farm
Bureau and American Farm Bureau Federation don’t believe the EPA has this authority. In response, AFBF has led a vocal opposition campaign to the EPA’s proposal called Ditch the Rule. To counter the AFBF in this high-stakes dispute, the EPA has established its own webpage called Ditch the Myth. We don’t believe the EPA has the authority to claim those exemptions for farming practices. The fact that EPA wants to assure farmers they have nothing to worry about because of those exemptions is a situation ripe for future regulatory creep. The Clean Water Act allows for lawsuits from citizens when they believe the CWA is not being implemented correctly. This could open a flood gate of citizen lawsuits (backed by environmental groups) against farmers. To complicate things, water regulations vary greatly from state to state. In many states, EPA’s proposal is a big regulatory expansion. That’s not the case in Wisconsin. Our state’s non-point program gives state agencies the authority to require nutrient management plans, to regulate the timing and rates of manure application and require soil erosion to be at or below tolerable soil loss. So some of what the EPA is proposing is not as big a hurdle for Wisconsin farmers. However, we still must oppose this power grab on the points that EPA doesn’t have the authority to do this and to protect Wisconsin farmers from citizen litigation. For decades the WFBF has tried to balance the needs of the environment with regulations that will be practical and workable for Wisconsin farms and it will do the same here. WFBF is working with other organizations and will be
submitting comments to the EPA before a November 14 deadline. It’s common for there to be testy relations between regulators and those they regulate. Alleged use of drones, a privacy breach of farmers’ data, and proposed unworkable dust regulations have only compounded the distrust of the EPA by the farm community, and perhaps for good reason. Farmers have grown weary of overlycomplicated procedures and having to get permission to farm. The EPA wants you to think they won’t ever use all of the regulations they are seeking, but from past experience it’s only a matter of time before someone suggests that these exemptions be repealed. This is how regulatory creep happens. This is why we have to say ‘no’ to EPA’s proposal.
Zimmerman is WFBF’s Executive Director of Governmental Relations.
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opinion
Dad’s 93 Years of Wisdom; Rural’s 80 of Service A Message from Rural Mutual CEO Peter Pelizza
was formed 80 years ago by some Farm Bureau members who needed auto insurance. The great news is that our purpose, values and culture have remained intact. In the next 80 years I hope that those as
is something I am thankful for. I find it amazing my dad may forget what he had for breakfast, but can provide the most miniscule of detail about his childhood on the farm, World War II, his first day on the job, my first football game and when I wrecked his car. He reminds me of that car every time I see him. I wish he’d get over it (or forget about it). Dad has 93 years of wisdom. As the seventh CEO in Rural Mutual’s 80-year history, I wish I could visit with all of my predecessors to learn more about its history. The insurance business may have changed over 80 years, but I think our beliefs and purpose have never wavered. People change; so do companies. My picture today is different than the one from 12 years ago. I look more and more like my dad. Likewise, the face of Rural has changed over 80 years, but the true picture of who we are as a company continues to look like how our founders expected it to be. Happy Birthday Rural and many more!
“The face of Rural has changed over 80 years, but the true picture of who we are as a company continues to look like how our founders expected it to be.”
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was told to get a new professional photo taken because the one I had been using “must be from high school.” If that’s how I looked back then I certainly would have struggled even more in getting a prom date. As my updated photo shows, time alters external appearances. However what’s on the inside is what really matters and should remain eternal. This year marks the Rural Mutual Insurance Company’s 80 years of service to Wisconsin’s farmers, families and businesses. Like my photo, Rural looks different than it did just a few years ago. Significantly different than when it
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fortunate as me to lead this organization will have the wisdom to continue down that same path Rural has travelled. Rural’s culture is to make sure we take care of Wisconsin. Think about our tag line: “Premiums Paid Here, Stay Here to Keep Wisconsin Strong.” That’s a powerful message to those who take pride in the rich heritage found in America’s Dairyland. Coupled with the work and mission of Farm Bureau, our shared mission and futures have a sound footing. Speaking of the passage of time, I recently visited my dad, who turned 93. Celebrating another of his birthdays
Pelizza is the Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Mutual Insurance Company.
Wisconsin farm bureau federation
Every Vote Really Does Count A Message from WFBF’s Casey Langan
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espite liking stability and routine, my job used to have a potential expiration date every two years. This unnerving possibility happened in the 2006 election. The stressful culmination of a campaign saw my head hit the pillow around 3 a.m. I had spent the last couple hours staring at televised election results showing my boss clinging to a 6-vote lead with 100 percent of precincts reporting. My four years as a legislative aide for my local Assembly representative was a dizzying, real-life civics lesson complete with parades and protests, victories and vetoes. It gave me the insider’s view of how things really work in state government. The absurdity of it all was never lost on me though. Think of it, how many jobs involve walking past picketers to get to work and knocking on doors every two years just to stay employed. I knew a national wave of ‘Bush fatigue’ was costing Republicans dearly, but was proud of the work we had done
locally. So I took it personal to think that only a half-dozen more voters wanted us to continue than not. A 6 a.m. phone call bolted me out of bed. A questionable ballot snafu had added more votes for our opponent, and suddenly we were nine votes short. The recount that took place in the weeks that followed was a nerve-wracking and mind-numbing blur. We lost. It sounds like a cliché … but your vote really does matter. Just look at the primary election results from August. After thousands of votes cast, some races were decided by less than 20 votes. We may be a politically-divided state, but I think we can all agree that our statewide races are going to be close. These races will probably be decided by just a few voters from each voting precinct. Research shows that farmers as a group have a higher voting percentage than the general public. So while I might be preaching to the choir, it’s important that you take the next step: • Offer to drive someone to the polls. • Remind others to vote.
“We may be a politically-divided state, but I think we can all agree that our statewide races are going to be close. These races will probably be decided by just a few voters from each voting precinct.”
• Call your preferred candidate’s campaign office and offer a place for them to put up a yard sign. Farmers are busy in the fall, but there’s really no excuse not to vote. Simply show up at your city, village or town clerk’s office in the days leading up to the November 4 election and cast your ballot. This is your only chance to cast votes for the people who cast ballots on our behalf in Madison and Washington. Vote and encourage others to do the same. Take it from me. You don’t want to find yourself staring at your television in the wee hours of morning, wondering if all of your family members bothered to vote.
Langan is the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Executive Director of Public Relations.
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opinion
These Aren’t Your Grandpa’s Environmentalists
Guest Column by WMC’s Eric Bott
Democratic President, Woodrow Wilson. Pinchot’s philosophy, that we can simultaneously preserve our environment and utilize its resources toward the economic benefit of the nation, was once
importing equally heavy crude from Venezuela with an even greater carbon footprint. They oppose proper forest management practices because ‘nature should be left untouched’ even when
“These days, environmentalists almost seem to have adopted the attitude that if it’s good for humans, it must be bad for the environment.”
I
n 1909, the man who coined the term “Conservation Ethic,” U.S. Forest Service Chief Gifford Pinchot, engaged in a very public row with then U.S. Secretary of the Interior Richard Ballinger. Pinchot was concerned that Ballinger might be engaging in what we would today call crony capitalism through the preferential sale of the nation’s mineral, timber and hydrological resources to well-connected elites. Pinchot did not seek to leave these resources untouched but quite the contrary; he wished to see them developed in a responsible manner to the benefit of his fellow Americans. Indeed, Pinchot would go on to define forestry as “the art of producing from the forest whatever it can yield for the service of man.” By January 1910, the dispute between Pinchot and Ballinger had grown so heated that President William Howard Taft was forced to dismiss Pinchot, causing a split in the Republican Party and igniting a rift between Taft and Pinchot’s close ally Theodore Roosevelt. Two years later Roosevelt would mount a third party challenge to Taft, resulting in the election of America’s first progressive
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so powerfully held by conservationists that it contributed to the end of five decades of near total Republican dominance in presidential elections (Grover Cleveland excepted). Today that philosophy is largely absent in mainstream environmentalism. Little concern is paid to the costs of policy on working families and almost none for businesses. These days, environmentalists almost seem to have adopted the attitude that if it’s good for humans, it must be bad for the environment. One of the latest green fads is to argue for a halt to economic growth. Let me state that again. A growing number of environmentalists are calling for an end to economic growth. Drive around Madison and you’ll see bumper stickers reading, “Growing the economy is shrinking the ecosystem.” These are not your grandfather’s environmentalists. So what is the philosophy of modern greens? At times it can be hard to tell. Today’s environmentalists claim to support replacing coal-fired power plants with natural gas and nuclear. Yet they oppose hydraulic fracturing to obtain the needed gas, building pipeline infrastructure to move it, or constructing any new nuclear facilities. Other times their agenda seems contradictory. They oppose importing petroleum from Canadian oil sands even when the practical alternative is
such policies contribute to larger and more destructive forest fires. This growing inflexibility should concern business. As these ideas radicalize, their influence is growing. A common debate in political circles is whether or not the green movement has supplanted labor as the chief source of influence in the Democratic Party. Looking at Keystone XL and the War on Coal at the federal level or iron and sand mining in Wisconsin, the greens are batting a thousand whenever they play against labor. Wealthy donors such as fossil fuel investor-turnedenvironmentalist Tom Steyer, who has pledged $100 million to elect likeminded Democrats to the U.S. Senate this fall, are furthering the rise in influence of hardline greens. Practically speaking, this means the partisan divide will continue to grow and our federal regulators at the EPA and other agencies will be more apt to push ever bolder and costly regulatory schemes. That’s bad news not just because it creates a drag on our economy but because when environmental policy becomes a political weapon, everybody – including the environment – loses. Bott is the Director of Environmental and Energy Policy for Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce.
Wisconsin farm bureau federation
Soy-Corn Ratio to Dictate Marketing Plans Guest Column by AgriVisor’s Joe Camp
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he row crop harvest is upon us and crops are yielding record bounties. As stocks begin to swell, it looks as if corn production will easily clear 14 billion bushels and soybean output will approach the four billion bushel mark. Prices were guided by the anticipation of big crops and sagged steadily through the summer. Even with the promise of a bumper bean crop, the oilseed has maintained a hefty premium over corn. More than ever, marketing plans should take into account commodityspecific influences as growers adjust to manage a set of structurally lower value ranges for both corn and soybeans. Farmers responded in a big way to a lofty soybean/corn price ratio when they planted this year’s crops. A record 84.8 million acres were planted to soybeans while corn acres were reduced by four million acres from the previous year. Analysts are already calling for additional acreage to switch in 2015. As soybean acres continue to grow not only in the U.S. but in South America too, we may see a string a consecutive planting records. Planting intentions for the next crop may weigh on soybean prices down the road, but near-term price guidance will be dictated by harvest progress and the pace of sales made by the grower.
Soybeans are likely to be marketed promptly at harvest as farmers fill their bins to capacity with corn. While supply-side influences are working to adjust downward the bean/ corn ratio, demand is competing to prop up the premium paid to soy. For corn, domestic usage has featured some plateauing as of late; for soybeans, demand is seemingly insatiable. With the ethanol industry having matured and livestock inventories slumping, exports are left to make up for a potentially burdensome growth of corn stocks. Soybeans benefit from an expanding domestic crush industry and solid demand from China. U.S. meal sales are already running nearly triple the pace of recent years. In respect to commodity-specific marketing considerations, look for record stocks to keep a lid on corn and soybean prices through the calendar year. Corn will fill the bins as farmers dig in and wait for better prices, so expect to see the grain hold up better relative to soybeans as the harvest winds down. In the long-run, keep in mind that soybeans will enjoy support from a strong demand profile. Corn usage will remain tentative as ethanol production peaks and livestock herds begin the slow rebuilding process. Remember that the window is likely closing as far as the potential for better corn basis goes. We may see some slight
“In the long-run, keep in mind that soybeans will enjoy support from a strong demand profile. Corn usage will remain tentative as ethanol production peaks and livestock herds begin the slow rebuilding process.”
improvement into the year’s end if the farmer remains stingy with corn sales. Comfortable stocks ultimately keep a lid on big basis gains. Good export demand may continue to prop up soybean basis in the near-term, but selling pressure will continue to run heavy and weigh on basis. Freight congestion this fall may be a savior for cash prices, but export sales will have to keep their strong pace. The recent decoupling of corn and soybean prices is not an aberration. Marketing decisions must be made in the reflection of a historically-sturdy soybean/corn ratio. That ratio is likely to give in some as a result of harvest pressures and storage considerations, but the era of soy is here to stay and the market will continue to reward the commodity with relative premium. Plan accordingly.
Camp is the risk management specialist for AgriVisor, one of WFBF’s member benefits.
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F Amanda Zuehls Marquette County
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Dustin Williams Green County
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ustin Williams is an agricultural education instructor at Blackhawk Technical College in Janesville. He has a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a master’s degree in agricultural education. Dustin lives in South Wayne with his wife, two children and three stepchildren. He is vice president of Green County Farm Bureau and is active with the Green County Ag in the Classroom Program. Dustin was recently elected to serve on the county fair board and is involved with the county tractor safety program.
manda Zuehls is a location manager at Archer Daniels Midland Grain. She oversees and works with 13 employees to run a full-service agronomy facility and grain elevator. She is a graduate of UW-Madison’s Farm & Industry Short Course where she earned certificates in soil and water management, meat animal poultry and farm mechanics. Amanda is the co-Women’s committee chair for the Marquette County Farm Bureau and is active in her local FFA alumni group. She also helps with the Marquette County Dairy Breakfast.
Excellence in Ag S
tephanie Stout grew up on her family’s registered dairy farm, Briar Holsteins. She graduated from UW-Platteville with a bachelor’s degree in animal science and agri-business. Stephanie recently started her own business promoting polled dairy cattle and launched a new all-breeds polled dairy cattle publication called #PolledPlace. She is also employed by DairyBullsOnline as their promotions and communications manager. She remains involved with her family’s farm located in Monroe. Stephanie is the current YFA committee co-chair for Rock County and also volunteers with various youth programs including 4-H, FFA and the Wisconsin and Illinois Junior Holstein Associations.
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Stephanie Stout
eth Porior Schafer is a regional program manager for the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board’s Wisconsin Dairy Council. Covering 18 counties in north-central Wisconsin, Beth works with K-12 schools to explain the benefits of drinking milk and facilitates the Fuel Up to Play 60 program. She also works closely with local media to promote Wisconsin cheese. Beth lives in Hatley with her husband Matt and their son Henry. Beth is the treasurer for Marathon County Farm Bureau and is actively involved in the Marathon County Partnership for Progressive Agriculture. Prior to working for the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Beth taught high school agriculture and served as an FFA Advisor in both the Merrill and Oconto Falls School Districts.
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Image of Beth courtesy
Rock County
Beth Schaefer
of the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Inc.
our individuals have been selected as Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Excellence in Ag finalists and will compete in December for the top honor. The Excellence in Ag award recognizes members of Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist Program who excel in their involvement in agriculture, leadership abilities, involvement in Farm Bureau and other civic and service organizations. “Four outstanding agriculture advocates are finalists in this year’s state competition. This contest highlights how these fine individuals have positively impacted Wisconsin agriculture and inspires others to do the same,” said the Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Jim Holte. Excellence in Ag award applicants must derive a majority of their income from a non-production agribusiness enterprise for the past three years. Examples of occupations of past finalists include: agricultural education instructor, fertilizer salesperson, veterinarian, farm employee, agricultural writer and marketer. The Young Farmer and Agriculturist program is open to Farm Bureau members between the ages of 18 and 35. Each finalist must make a presentation and answer questions in front of a three-judge panel during the Farm Bureau’s 2014 Annual Meeting/ Young Farmer and Agriculturist Conference at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, December 5-8. Last year’s Excellence in Ag winner was Nicole Reese of Rock County.
Marathon County
Wisconsin farm bureau federation
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our finalists will vie for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist (YFA) Achievement Award this December. “This year’s finalists are some of the best and brightest young farmers in Wisconsin,” said the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation President Jim Holte. The Achievement Award recognizes YFA members who excel in production farming, leadership ability and involvement in Farm Bureau and other organizations. Achievement Award applicants must have derived a majority of their income from on-farm production over the past three years. Each finalist must fill out a long-form application by October 1. A three-judge panel will score those applications and conduct an interview with the four finalists at Farm Bureau’s 2014 Annual Meeting/ Young Farmer and Agriculturist Conference at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, December 5-8, 2014. Each finalist receives a $50 FAST STOP gift card from GROWMARK, Inc. This year’s state winner competes at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2015 Annual Conference in San Diego. In addition, Rural Mutual Insurance Company provides a free financial plan for the state winner and FABCO Equipment Inc. provides the state winner with 40 hours use of a FABCO 226 skid-steer loader. Last year’s winner of the Achievement Award were Corey and Miranda Leis, dairy farmers from Cashton in Monroe County.
Chris Pollack
Fond du Lac County
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hris Pollack grew up on a dairy farm near Ripon. He attended UW-Madison’s Farm & Industry Short Course and then returned to farm with his parents on Pollack-Vu Dairy LLC. They milk 150 cows and farm 700 acres. Chris also does some custom baling and markets straw to local farmers. He is involved with the Fond du Lac County YFA program, Ripon FFA Alumni and he coaches the Fond du Lac County dairy judging team. Chris was the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Discussion Meet winner in 2013 and was a national Discussion Meet finalist in 2014.
Nathan & Karyn Eckert Taylor County
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athan and Karyn Eckert have a 100-cow dairy farm near Medford in partnership with Nathan’s family. Since joining the farm in 2002 their combined efforts helped them expand and modernize in almost every way. Nathan shares management of the dairy herd and 660 acres of crops with his father. The couple has also established a small maple syrup business. Karyn serves on the board of directors for the Taylor County Farm Bureau.
Achievement Award J
oseph and Sarah Mumm live in Lancaster where they have 50 registered Holsteins and farm 300 acres. They work as a team to manage all the aspects of the dairy. Joseph attended the Northeast Community College in Iowa for construction management and Sarah attended UW-Madison’s Farm & Industry Short Course. They began farming in 2005. They have attended numerous YFA events and are members of many agricultural organizations. Joseph is currently a director on the Dairy Herd Improvement Co-op board.
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ark Mayer lives in Fredonia. After purchasing his first dairy cattle and utilizing rental facilities, Mark purchased his current farm in 2006. He farms 550 acres. He attended Lakeshore Technical College for dairy herd management. Mark is the vice president for Ozaukee County’s YFA committee and also serves on the policy development board and board of directors. Mark likes to spend time with his family, including his 12 nieces and nephews. He also serves on his local fire department.
The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation co-sponsors these contests with GROWMARK Inc. and Rural Mutual Insurance Company. Information and applications for all YFA contests may be downloaded from WFBF’s website, wfbf.com.
Joseph & Sarah Mumm Mark Mayer october | november 2014
Grant County
Ozaukee County
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San Diego to Host AFBF 96th Annual Convention
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early 7,000 Farm Bureau members from across the nation will gather for the AFBF 96th Annual Convention January 9-14, 2015 in San Diego. This year’s convention theme is Tradition, Perseverance, Vision: Farm Bureau Proud. The convention will feature a variety of issue conferences, concurrent workshops, the AFBF Young Farmer and Rancher competitions and the new and expanded IDEAg Trade Show. During the convention, members will also set policy that will guide Farm Bureau in the coming year. Headlining this year’s speaker lineup will be comic and talk show host Jay Leno. Leno, an admired stand-up comedian, is also a best-selling children’s book author, TV and movie voice-over artist, pioneering car builder and mechanic and philanthropist. He has been widely characterized as “the hardest-working man in show business.” Leno’s late night television ratings domination has included hosting more than two decades of “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” during which the show was a quarterly ratings winner for 19 consecutive years. While in San Diego, WFBF members will be staying at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego. The Grand Hyatt is located on beautiful San Diego Bay, a short walk the famous Gaslamp District and the San Diego Convention Center, site of the AFBF Annual Convention. Farm Bureau members will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of optional pre- and post-convention
Notice of Annual Meeting of Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Cooperative In accordance with the bylaws and pursuant to the direction of the Board of Directors, the undersigned Secretary hereby gives notice that the Annual Meeting of members of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Cooperative, will convene on Monday, December 8 at 10:30 a.m. at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Stephen Freese, Secretary
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tours highlighting the diversity of southern California agriculture. The AFBF Annual Convention registration fee is $100 per person, which covers entrance to all sessions. Registration materials for the AFBF Annual Convention are available from the WFBF website at wfbf.com or by contacting Bob Leege, WFBF Executive Director of Member Relations at 608.828.5710 or bleege@wfbf.com.
2014
Annual ing Meet December 5-8
Notice of Annual Meeting of Rural Mutual Insurance Company In accordance with the bylaws and pursuant to the direction of the Board of Directors, the undersigned Secretary hereby gives notice that the Annual Meeting of members of the Rural Mutual Insurance Company will convene on Monday, December 8 at 10:30 a.m. at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Stephen Freese, Secretary Wisconsin farm bureau federation
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Wisconsin
Women’s you should attend the 5th AnnualAg Wisconsin AgI TWomen’s Summit S U M M March 13-14, 2015 Madison Marriott West, Middleton
FEEDBACK
We listened to your feedback and are preparing a better-than-ever schedule of topics. Plus, Friday night’s entertainment is Piano Fondue, the wildly popular dueling pianos show!
FULFILLING Connect with women who share similar humor, challenges and aspirations to be “agvocates” for our ag community.
FRESH
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FORWARD-THINKING
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FARM-FOCUSED
As a farm woman, you have a lot on your mind. We get it! That’s why at this year’s summit, succession planning is a key topic so you and your family have the tools to plan the future of your farm.
This summit is tailored to fit you, including sessions on how to ride the wave of farm finances, organizing your farm office and going from “Farm to Fabulous.”
Presented by:
It’s not just a food trend, it’s our line-up of speakers too! This year we’re giving you both, including a breakout showing you what happens behind the doors of a grocery store.
University of Wisconsin–Extension
For updates and more information about the Summit, visit wiagwomenssummit.com or connect with us on Facebook. #WAWS15
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leadership
District Discussion Meet Qualifiers YFA members will compete at state in December
The Discussion Meet contest gives YFA members a chance to demonstrate their speaking skills on agricultural-related topics. Contestants are judged on their problem-solving skills as they discuss timely topics with their colleagues. Each of WFBF’s nine districts held a competition where the following contestants were chosen to advance to the state competition held at the WFBF Annual Meeting in December.
District 1
District 4
District 7
Amanda Carlson, Waukesha Ryan Brueggemann, Waukesha Emily Watson, Walworth
Shelby Pyka, Trempealeau Travis Klinkner, Monroe Adam Wehling, Buffalo
Andrea Korth, Outagamie Brian Preder, Waupaca Patty Sellen, Oconto
District 5
District 8
Sally Turpin, Juneau Ethan Giebel, Juneau Nate Zimdars, Fond du Lac
Melvin Zenner, Taylor Melissa Ploeckelman, Marathon Ryan Prahl, Marathon
District 2 Maria Woldt, Columbia Hannah Gerbitz, Rock Julie Martin, Dodge
District 3 Becky Hasburgh, Iowa Chad Gleason, Lafayette Kory Stalsberg, Grant
District 6 Jamie Propson, Manitowoc
District 9 Peter Kimball, Pierce Kirsten Konder, St. Croix Julie Wadzinski, Barron
Emerging Ag Leaders Picked for Next Farm Bureau Institute
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Farm Bureau and governmental leaders and staff at the state ifteen Farm Bureau members from around the state will and national levels and networking with other participants. The soon begin a yearlong life changing experience as members first session begins in January and focuses on public speaking, of Class IX of the 2015 leadership Institute. “Today’s farmers etiquette, emotional intelligence and personality types. and agriculturists must take the lead and be advocates for their Subsequent sessions focus on media and advocacy training, farms and agribusinesses. The Institute gives participants the running effective meetings, the structure and function of Farm skills and confidence necessary to lead the future of farming and agriculture in their county Farm Bureau, local community and beyond,” said Dale Beaty, Farm Bureau’s Director of “Today’s farmers and agriculturists must take Training and Leadership Development. the lead and be advocates for their farms and The Institute is an educational program agribusinesses. The Institute gives participants the of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation. Members of Class IX of the 2015 Institute skills and confidence necessary to lead the future of include: Amanda Carlson, Hartland; farming and agriculture in their county Farm Bureau, Jayne Dalton, Endeavor; Erin Daluge, Janesville; Hannah Gerbitz, Milton; Kelsi local community and beyond,” said Dale Beaty. Mayer, Monroe; Sarah Sacker, Browntown; Taylor Schuetz, Brooklyn; Janet Clark, Bureau, being a creative leader, the workings of local and state Rosendale; Kendra Raymond, Fond du Lac; Kim VandenAvond, government, and future national and international ag issues. Green Bay; Susan Brugger, Rib Lake; William Litzer, Marathon; The class capstone event is a joint trip with the WFBF Board of William Mueller, Wausau; Bradley Weber, Marshfield and Randel Directors to Washington, D.C. in April, 2016. Wokatsch, Marathon. Farm Bureau members interested in applying for the 2016 The Institute consists of five multi-day sessions which Institute Class X may contact Dale Beaty at 608.828.5714 or provide hands on learning on issues important to agriculture, email him at dbeaty@wfbf.com. development of leadership and speaking skills, interaction with
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Wisconsin farm bureau federation
ag in the classroom
Ag in the Classroom Essay Topic and Book of the Year
“W
hy are bees important to Wisconsin Agriculture?” is the topic of the essay contest from the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Ag in the Classroom program. “Our 2015 Book of the Year is “The Beeman” by Laurie Krebs. The book and essay topic will allow us to educate students about bees and the important role they play in agriculture,” said Wendy Kannel, Ag in the Classroom Coordinator. “We will again link the book, the accompanying lessons, various Wisconsin educational resources and other Ag in the Classroom lessons into resources for teachers, students and volunteers to use in promoting and preparing essays.” Essay submissions must be between 100 to 300 words in length and will be judged on content, grammar, spelling and neatness. All contest rules, lesson plans, county contest coordinators and sample classroom activities are located at wisagclassroom.org or by contacting Kannel at 608.828.5719 or wkannel@wfbf.com. Participating students and schools need to submit essays by April 1 to their county Farm Bureau essay coordinator. A state winner will be selected from nine district winners in May by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Women’s Committee. Each district winner will receive a classroom presentation in May for their homeroom or class. The contest is sponsored by FrontierServco FS, We Energies and the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation. Last year, nearly 2,500 students participated in the contest. In this year’s Book of the Year selection, “The Beeman,” introduces young readers to bees, beekeepers and the pollination process. The hardcover books come with an activity/lesson plan packet that teachers, students and home school parents can use to enhance the reading experience. Book order forms can be found at wisagclassroom.org under “Order Forms.”
Fresh Citrus, Orange Juice and Peanuts from Florida! Visit www.wfbf.com/fruitsale for county Farm Bureaus who are hosting fall sales.
Rural Route wisconsin Farm bureau federation’s
Statement of Ownership
“Why are bees important to Wisconsin Agriculture?” is the topic of the essay contest from the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Ag in the Classroom program.
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ag in the classroom
State Fair Day Camp
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early 500 kids from the Milwaukee area had the opportunity to explore agriculture during the Wisconsin State Fair Day Camp thanks in part to the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation. Fair Camp is a day-long experience for young students, ranging from 2nd to 5th grade, to visit the fair and learn more about the agriculture industry. Throughout the day, campers participated in many interactive activities including: • Farm animal care demonstrations and exploration • Tour of the Badgerland Financial Discovery Barnyard • Hands-on workshops at the Natural Resources Park • Wisconsin agricultural products tasting • Ride down the Giant Slide They were led throughout the fairgrounds by high school aged youth leaders from FFA, 4-H and the Green County Dairy Princesses. Melissa Schaefer, Fair Camp Coordinator, stated, “Wisconsin State Fair Day Camps is a unique way for urban youth to experience the State Melissa Schaefer Fair and all that it has to offer. It allows youth to learn about Wisconsin’s thriving agricultural industry and is a fun and educational
“My favorite part of day camp was seeing the cows and how they can produce milk and then we get milk and cheese. Did you know that you can also get glue and lotion from cows?”
Sydney, Age: 8 40
“The best part of day camp was being able to milk a cow and understand where my milk comes from.”
Jonathan, Age: 10
experience.” She added, “Although there is a lot of work that goes into planning the camp, it is great to see that work come into play and know that the kids had a great experience. We wouldn’t be able to do it without our volunteers who help make it such a huge success.” Along with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation, the camp is also sponsored by Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation, Porktoberfeast and Wisconsin Women for Agriculture.
“I liked the big slide and also seeing all of the different things that animals eat and it’s really different from what we eat. ”
Jaci, Age: 9
“My favorite part of day camp was the House of Moo where I got to see the cows and play the game on the tablet in the Discovery Barnyard because you could pick a job and learn about it and I want to be a cattle rancher.”
Tyler, Age: 10 41
foundation
n i s n o c s Wi
n e p O Ag
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hirty-four foursomes took to the course at Christmas Mountain Village in Wisconsin Dells on September 8 for the 17th Annual Wisconsin Ag Open. The event raises money for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation which funds: Ag in the Classroom, Young Farmer and Agriculturists, Women’s Program, Farm Bureau Leadership Institute and Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter’s at UW-Madison, UWPlatteville and UW-River Falls. Mastering the course with the low score of the scramble was the Xcel Energy team made up of David Donovan, BJ
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Rauckmau, Stuart Lorentz and Matt Pagel. The event also featured hole contests, a marshmallow pitch, Launching 4 Charity hole, bucket raffle and mulligan sales. To see pictures from the event, visit the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Flickr page and look for the 2014 Wisconsin Ag Open album. If you are interested in supporting the Foundation at next year’s event, mark your calendar for September 14, 2015. We will once again be at Christmas Mountain Village in Wisconsin Dells.
Wisconsin farm bureau federation
Thank You
Box Lunch Sponsor • Aon Benfield
Registration Refreshments • Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield Hole Sponsors • Rural Mutual Insurance Company • Bollenbeck Fyfe S.C. • Kennedy Communications • Strohm, Ballweg, LLP • Farm Bureau Financial Services • Frontier-Servco FS/GROWMARK • Investors Community Bank • SAsid, Inc.
Club House Sponsors • Stroud, Willink & Howard LLC • Xcel Energy • The Payroll Company • M3 Insurance • BMO Harris Bank • American Agricultural Insurance Company Prize, Registration and Misc. • Wisconsin Beef Council • One Touch Point – CCI • Munson Hybrids – Tim Jackson • Rural Mutual Insurance Company • Investors Community Bank
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foundation
Fun’d the Foundation
trivIa Contest
Q1: This State Senator won the WFBF Discussion Meet contest in 1985.
Q2: What is Wisconsin’s State Beverage?
Q3: Name the U.S. city whose every other letter is “u.”
Gather up to six of your closest (or smartest) friends for a Farm Bureau trivia contest on Sunday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m. during the WFBF Annual Meeting at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells. Categories will include current events, history, geography, music, movies, sports, Farm Bureau and more! Teams of up to six people $10 per person/$60 per team Three (15 minute) rounds of 25 questions Register at wfbf.com/programsevents/event-registration Teams can register up until 5 p.m. at the Annual Meeting registration desk.
A1: Senator Sheila Harsdorf A2: Milk A3: Dubuque
• • • • •
Ready! Set! Bid!
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oin us during the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Annual Meeting for the annual silent auction to benefit the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation. The Foundation funds Ag in the Classroom, Young Farmer and Agriculturists, Women’s Program, Farm Bureau Institute and the Collegiate Farm Bureau chapters. From hotel stays to homemade goods, paintings and more, the silent auction will have what you are looking for! Bidding will begin on Saturday at 2 p.m. and will end on Sunday evening at 5 p.m. prior to the awards program. Donation forms are now being accepted and can be found at wfbf.com/about-wfbf/ foundation/silentauction.
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Wisconsin farm bureau federation
rural mutual
Are You Covered? Are You Sure? Discussing coverage for crops in the open. By Peter Pelizza
Scenario While combining a corn field this fall the combine catches on fire. It is a windy day and the fire spreads from the combine to the dried corn stalks and burns five acres before it can be extinguished. Your blanket coverage on farm personal property includes 10 percent of the total inventory for crops in the open. It is determined that you have a total inventory of $500,000 so you would have up to $50,000, minus your farm personal property deductible, to pay for the corn that was destroyed by the fire started by the combine. Do you have enough coverage for the loss?
Coverage As the scenario states, you may apply up to 10 percent of the limit of liability specified for Unscheduled Farm Personal Property to cover the following standing crops or crops in the open: they are covered only for fire, lightning, vandalism or malicious mischief and non-owned vehicle loss or damage. These are the only standing crops that are covered: • Corn, wheat, oats, barley, rye and other grains, sunflowers, flax and soybeans. • Grain in stacks, swaths or piles and the contents of pit or bunk silos. • Hay, straw, silage, fodder or contents in silo bags in the open are limited to $10,000 for any one stack, pile, bale or silo bag and its contents. A group of stacks, piles or bales separated by less than 100 feet will be considered one stack, pile or bale. This 100 foot separation does not apply to silo bags so silo bags can be side by side and each bag has up to $10,000 in coverage. Silo Bags in the Open: For any silo bag damaged by wind or hail, we will pay: • Up to $2,000 to repair or replace any one silo bag. • Up to $3,000 for the expense incurred to refill any one silo bag but not to exceed $25,000 in any one loss, casualty or disaster. If you want to insure crops stored in the open and the value is more than $10,000 per stack, pile, bunker or silo bag, the value will need to be insured using our FO-8, Scheduled Farm Personal Property. For more information contact your local Rural Mutual Insurance agent.
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Insurance Company www.ruralins.com | 877.219.9550
october | november 2014
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Rural Mutual Offers Business and Estate Succession Planning Workshops
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ural Mutual will be offering a number of business and estate succession planning workshops throughout the next few months including a special workshop at the WFBF Annual Meeting. Attendees will discuss viable solutions to business and estate succession issues many Wisconsin farm families face. The presentation will explore how to be fair to children in passing the business to heirs, while also providing a fair inheritance to non-farm children, how to avoid common estate-tax traps; making sure attendees and their spouses are prepared for retirement and the potential need for longterm care; and how to assemble and work with a team of professional advisors. There are a number of workshops being planned. If you are interested in attending one of these workshops please contact your Rural Mutual Insurance agent.
Date
Location
November 17 November 17 December 7 January 27 January 28
Waupaca Antigo Kalahari Resort (WFBF Annual Meeting) Brown and Calumet counties Door and Kewaunee counties
2014 High School Sportsmanship Awards
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he Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association, in partnership with Rural Mutual Insurance Company, has selected the Sportsmanship Awards for the 2014 spring and summer state team tournaments. The winners of this prestigious award are New Holstein in girls soccer, Eau Claire Memorial in boys tennis, Arcadia in softball, Oconto in spring baseball and Oak Creek in summer baseball. The WIAA/Rural Mutual Insurance Sportsmanship Award is presented to one school and community in each of the state team tournaments. The award winners are determined by the conduct and sportsmanship displayed by athletes, coaches, cheer and support groups, mascots, bands and spectators. Additional consideration is given for the effort of school administrators and chaperones to insure support for their teams are positive and that the highest ideals of sportsmanship are upheld. Award winners receive a plaque and banner in recognition of the honor.
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Here’s to bringing up the sun. Here’s to muddy boots and grease-stained hands. Here’s to caring for this great land.
Here’s to protecting what you live for. We’re proud of our agricultural roots, and proud to be the insurance company so many families rely on to protect them from the unexpected. Here’s to protecting you, your family and your future.
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Coverage for your most preCious asset. you!
UP TO
BUNDLE & SAVE
Our already low premiums are even lower when you bundle your auto and home or farm or country estate and life. Contact your local Rural Mutual Insurance Company Agent to see how you can save up to 25%. Or visit us on Facebook or on our website at www.ruralins.com to find an agent near you.