31 ISSUE 3
Nebraska
Farm Bureau News
2A
contents
In Every Issue 3A County News 4A Member Benefits 5A Whats Cooking? 8A National News 11A State News 14B Want Ads
On the Cover Consumer food trends show consumer habits and farmer methods. Photo Illustration by Tara Grell
SPCC Webinar Plan to attend a webinar if you have questions about EPAs finalization of the oil Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure plan. page 8A
he lyrics from Jim Croces 1972 single You Dont Mess Around with Jim came to mind a few weeks ago when listening to the back and forth talks on the federal budget sequester. You may recall the songs catchy list of things you dont do: tug on Supermans capespit into the windor try and pull the mask off the ol lone ranger. It struck me that sequester talks would benefit from a Croce like warning such as: you dont threaten the safety and security of Americas food supply. FOOD SECURITY If history has taught us anything as a country, its that our strength comes from the ability to feed and nourish our ever growing population. Even with the ability to raise food, natural disasters like Hurricane Sandy, are vivid reminders of just how fragile, yet complex, our food distribution system can be. Despite that reality, food security has become the latest hostage in the showdown between the White House and Congress on the budget sequester. The sequester would make $1.2 trillion in total budget cuts over the course of the next 10 years with roughly $85 million in cuts for fiscal year 2013; the idea being to slow Americas federal budget deficit that has bloated to $17 trillion due to the federal government spending nearly a trillion dollars a year more than it takes in. While theres plenty of blame to go around between Democrats and Republicans alike for the situation, the finger pointing and rhetoric hit a new low when the White House and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) began beating the drum that layoffs of federal meat inspectors could be part of the sequester. EFFECTS OF POTENTIAL CUTS From a historical perspective, meat inspectors have always been considered essential personnel making them exempt from government shutdowns and other federal budgetary issues. This status for inspectors was established for good reason. Without federal meat inspection, packers and processors are not legally able to ship meat products across state lines. A slow down or shutdown in meat inspections would send shockwaves through the meat supply and distribution chains. Processors and packers would be limited in production capability or forced to shut down. Livestock farmers would literally have no market. American families and consumers would feel the
EDITORIAL STAFF
Editor/Advertising/Writer: Tina Henderson tinah@nefb.org or ext. 4446 Writer: Craig Head craigh@nefb.org or ext. 4435 Writer: Kassi Williams kassiw@nefb.org or ext. 4730 Graphic Designer/County News/ Photo Contest: Tara Grell tarag@nefb.org or ext. 4494 Want Ads and County Annual Meeting Notices: Shayna Truax shaynat@nefb.org or ext. 4485
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Sherry Vinton, second vice president (Whitman) Nathan Bartels (Elk Creek) Andy DeVries (Ogallala) Del Ficke (Pleasant Dale) Jason Kvols (Laurel) Myles Ramsey (Kenesaw) Scott Moore (Bartley) Kevin Peterson (Osceola) Tanya Storer (Whitman) Shelly Thompson (Whitney)
402-421-4400 www.nefb.org
Nebraska Farm Bureaus Mission: Strong Agriculture ...... Strong Nebraska Yearly subscription: 50 cents of membership dues Associate Member: Nebraska Press Association
Managing Drought Learn how to manage the drought on your farm and ranch by attending Farm Bureaus seminar. page 12B
NEBRASKA FARM BUREAU NEWS is published monthly, except July, by Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation, 5225 South 16th St., Lincoln, NE 68512. Periodicals postage paid at Lincoln, NE and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Nebraska Farm Bureau News Attn: Tina Henderson P.O. Box 80299, Lincoln, NE 68501
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COUNTY NEWS
Pierce County Farm Bureau
facebook.com/Nebraska.Farm.Bureau
twitter.com/NEFarmBureau
youtube.com/nebraskafarmbureau
nefb.wordpress.com
flickr.com/photos/nefarmbureau
pinterest.com/nefarmb
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MEMBER BENEFITS
a place outdoors where everyone should gather. Take inventory of your belongings. Create a list of valuable items in your home such as electronics, appliances, furnishings and collectibles. An online home invento-
ry can help you note the contents of your home and their value. Put together a disaster supply kit. Before wicked weather hits, take time to put together items you might need in case of a disaster. Some recommendations for a
Through an exclusive, multi-state agent force, the companies affiliated with the Farm Bureau Financial Services brand underwrite, market and distribute a broad range of insurance and financial services products to individuals and businesses. Neither the company nor its agents give tax or legal advice. Learn more about us by visiting www.fbfs.com or visit us on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.
TRIP
SECOND
FIRST
TRIP
FREE
TAKE TWO SEPARATE TRIPS
Register before your first stay at ChoiceHotels.com to earn unlimited free nights
NIGHT!
*
Take them to nefb.org and click Join OR call member services at 800-742-4016 and push 3.
Elite Diamond and Elite Platinum members can book directly with a hotel; however, if they book through ChoiceHotels.com these members will receive 100 additional Choice Privileges points with every qualifying stay
Access Nebraska Farm Bureau preferred rates by using your NEW Special Rate ID 00209690.**
ChoiceHotels.com
*Free night is based on an 8,000 point Choice Privileges reward night level. Members must register at ChoiceHotels.com before arrival and book their stays at ChoiceHotels.com or 800.4CHOICE at qualifying rates. Members may also book through a travel agent or corporate online booking system. Choice Privileges member number must be provided upon check-in. After a second qualifying stay with arrival between 2/28/13 and 5/15/13, you will be awarded a minimum of 5,000 and maximum of 8,000 points, depending on how many points were earned from your two (2) separate qualified stays. These bonus points will allow redemption for a free night at the 8,000 reward night level at over 1,500 hotels. A free night at most Choice Privileges locations requires more than 8,000 points. Choice Privileges Diamond and Platinum members who register and book through ChoiceHotels.com will receive an additional 100 Choice Privileges bonus points with every qualified stay during the promotional period. For Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites or Ascend Hotel Collection hotels, a trip is defined as a stay that is any number of consecutive nights at one hotel regardless of check-ins or checkouts. For Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, or MainStay Suites hotels, a trip is defined as a stay that is two (2) or more consecutive nights at one hotel regardless of check-ins or check-outs. Allow 72 hours from check-out for points to post. You must maintain an address in the U.S. (including U.S. territories) or Canada to be eligible for this promotion. For Choice Privileges program details, eligible rates, eligible countries and point redemption rules, visit choiceprivileges.com. **Rate subject to availability at participating hotels and cannot be combined with any other discount. 2013 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All rights reserved. 13-112/02/13
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WHATS COOKING?
Submit your own recipes, and photos if available by emailing tarag@nefb.org. All past recipes can be found on nefb.org.
Candied Bacon Ingredients 8 slices center cut thick bacon 1/2 cup brown sugar Cookie Ingredients 2 1/4 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 cup white sugar 1 cup brown sugar 1 whole egg 1 egg yolk 3/4 cups butter, melted and slightly cooled 1 tablespoon vanilla 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Place bacon in a single layer on a foil-lined sheet. 3. Sprinkle brown sugar on top of bacon strips. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until crispy, making sure to turn bacon over after 15 minutes. 4. Remove bacon from the oven and place on a wire rack for cooling. Once bacon has cooled chop it finely. 5. Reduce oven temperature to 325 F. 6. Sift flour and baking soda. 7. In a medium bowl, cream butter with the white and brown sugar. 8. Add vanilla, egg and egg yolk. Beat until light and creamy. 9. Add flour mixture and mix well. 10. Add diced candied bacon and chocolate chips. Stir until just combined. 11. Place golf ball sized balls of dough on a parchment lined cookie sheet. 12. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until edges are brown. Remove from oven and let cookies sit on the cookie sheet for a couple of minutes before placing on a wire rack to cool. Yield: 3 dozen cookies
Ingredients 1/2 pound Velveeta Cheese 2 sticks butter 1 2-pound bag of powdered sugar 3/4 cup cocoa 2 teaspoons vanilla 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) Directions 1. In a microwave-safe bowl, place the cheese and butter; microwave on medium (50 percent) until melted (about 5 minutes). Check and stir periodically. 2. Sift the cocoa and sugar together in a large bowl. Add the melted mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly. 3. Add vanilla and optional nuts. 4. Pour into a buttered 8 or 9-inch square pan. Chill until firm. Cut into 1-inch pieces. Yield: 3 pounds of fudge
UPCOMING MONTHS
Below are themes for the coming months! Submit your recipe to tarag@nefb.org. April barbecue recipes May fresh fruits and vegetables June ramen noodle recipes August honey and biscuit recipes September recipes on a dime
Microwave Velveeta Fudge recipe and all photos from Lois Linke, wife of Karl Linke, Nebraska Farm Bureau district director of member services for the southeast. Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe from www.tablespoon.com/recipes. Cake Mix Dinner Rolls recipe from www.mommyskitchen.net. Cranberry Sauerkraut Meatballs recipe from Shelley Kurtzer, NFBF associate director of member services. Sticky Peanut Butter and Jelly Wings recipe from rachaelraymag.com/recipes.
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ing using a computer in their farming operation. Nearly all of those surveyed, 94 percent, have access to the Internet. Highspeed Internet is used by 65 percent of those surveyed, with 22 percent relying on a satellite connection and just over 2 percent turning to dialup. The survey also shows that Americas young farmers and ranchers are committed environmental caretakers, with 64 percent using conservation tillage to protect soil and reduce erosion on their farms. AFBF President Bob Stallman said the annual YF&R survey underscores his belief that the future of U.S. agriculture is in good hands. The future looks bright for American agriculture and our nation as a whole, thanks to the commitment and solid knowledge base held by todays young farmers and ranchers, said Stallman. The informal survey of young farmers and ranchers, ages 18-35, was conducted at AFBFs 2013 YF&R Leadership Conference in Phoenix, Ariz., in February. The purpose of the YF&R program is to help younger members learn more about farming and ranching, network with other farmers and strengthen their leadership skills to assist in the growth of agriculture and Farm Bureau.
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Sen. Mike Johanns (second from right) was presented with American Farm Bureau Federations (AFBF) Golden Plow award March 5. Pictured from left are Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation President Steve Nelson; Stephanie Johanns, wife of Johanns; Sen. Johanns; and AFBF President Bob Stallman.
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Designed for the toughest environments and terrain. The most rugged member of the Zimmatic family is built with the industrys thickest pipeline.
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An incredible value featuring structural strength and long-lasting reliability. The 8500 matches the competitions thickest pipeline.
Cost-effectively irrigates elds up to 60 acres, featuring a full 10.5 ft crop clearance. An ideal small eld irrigator.
402-484-0303 agentmelissawheeler.com
The agents are independent and authorized producers of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association | *Registered Representative/Securities & services offered through FBL Marketing Services, LLC, 5400 University Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266, 877/8602904, Member SIPC, Affiliate Farm Bureau Financial Services. H2CNErr1 (412)
BELVIDERE WILLIAMS DRILLING COMPANY, INC 800-477-3745 402-768-6098 COZAD NEBRASKA AG & IRRIGATION, INC. 308-784-2118 308-529-3470
GRAND ISLAND THE PIVOT MAN, INC. 800-949-5345 Palmer 308-894-2155 ONEILL KRACL IRRIGATION CO. 402-336-4437
fertilizer, feed for everything you store on Grain, seed, your farm there is a Meridian Manufacturing bin to t your needs.
Grain, seed, fertilizer, feed for everything you store on your farm there is a Meridian
BEATRICE ROEHRS MACHINERY INC. 402-228-3319 www.roehrsinc.com CENTRAL CITY SENKBILE FARMS INC. 308-946-3396 IMPERIAL DSK IRRIGATION 308-882-3850 dskirrigation@gpcom.net
Rotary Cutters.
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NATIONAL NEWS
Oil Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Program SPCC Compliance Webinar
If you have additional questions about the SPCC Program, plan to attend the SPCC Compliance Webinar featuring EPA staff on Tues., March 26, at 9 a.m. (CST) or call the Oil Information Center at 800-424-9346. Register for the webinar by visiting: https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/713217086 What? In 2009, EPA finalized regulations that will require any farm with above-ground oil storage capacity of greater than 1,320 gallons to have a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) plan in place. This regulation is over 30 years old and was originally intended for the petroleum industry, although EPA contends that agriculture has never been exempt. In 2011, the EPA provided a two year compliance delay for farmers and ranchers; however the delay ends on May 10, 2013. Who? You need an SPCC plan if: An oil spill from your farm could reach water. You have oil (such as diesel, gasoline, hydraulic oil, lube oil, crop oil or vegetable oil, etc.) storage capacity of 1,320 gallons or more. When? The compliance date for farms is May 10, 2013. How? Prepare and implement an SPCC plan that outlines equipment and procedures to prevent and respond to an oil spill. Determine if you are a Tier I or Tier II facility: Tier I Fuel storage capacity (down to 55 gallon containers) of 1,320 gallons to 10,000 gallons with a reasonable expectation of spill going into waters of the U.S. Farmers and ranchers can self certify Farmers and ranchers can use EPA Tier I template available online via www.epa.gov/emergences/content/ spcc/tier1temp.htm unless part of fuel storage has a tank of 5,000 gallons or more Secondary containment will likely be part of SPCC plan Tier II Fuel storage capacity (down to 55 gallon containers) of above 10,000 gallons with a reasonable expectation of spill going into waters of the U.S. Farmers and ranchers must certify plan with licensed engineer Secondary containment will likely be part of SPCC plan
FirestoneAg.com
ASHTON ASHTON FEED & GRAIN 308-738-2292 bdonscheski@hotmail.com CHAPMAN J & S METER & SEED 308-390-7104 308-380-8200 ELGIN BAUM SEED SERVICE, LLC 402-843-5802 402-843-8282 EXETER BOECK SEED SERVICES, INC 402-366-4501 jerry.boeck@plantpioneer.com HARVARD MACK INC. 402-773-5233 402-469-2134 IMOGENE DOYLE SEED CALIBRATION 712-370-5661
LINDSAY ER PRECISION AG 402-920-2498 (402) 428-9060 MOOREFIELD LORN DIZMANG 308-367-8764 NORTH PLATTE DAN MCKEON 308-530-1462 ddmland@gmail.com OXFORD JDMD ENTERPRISES 308-991-0777 Broeker Enterprises SCHUYLER TRI-COUNTY AG SERVICE, INC. 402-352-3680 www.tcapower.com
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Youll live with your building for years and years... Get it right the rst time!
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HIAWATHA KEN BABCOCK SALES 800-544-6530 www.kenbabcocksales.com MC COOL JUNCTION NEVILLE CONSTRUCTION CO 402-724-2413 www.nevilleconstruction.com
There are two ways to design a machine. One approach is to strap your customers boots on and build something you assume they need. Or, you can let them wear their own boots as they tell you whats really needed in the field. Before we set out to build the BPX9000, we listened closely to what our customers wanted and needed in a bale processor. They kept asking for the same things: Simplicity, Durability and Versatility. So thats the bale processor we built.
An optional square bale kit lets you process large square bales evenly and consistently.
Vermeer and the Vermeer logo are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries. 2012 Vermeer Corporation. All rights reserved.
Vermeer and the Vermeer logo are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries. 2012 Vermeer Corporation. All rights reserved.
DIFFERENT BY DESIGN
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Spring Calving Season Brings New Arrivals to the Farm and Ranch
February and March may seem like a cold and gloomy time of the year in Nebraska, but for many farmers and ranchers its a time of excitement, little sleep and extra care to welcome the new arrivals on their farm calves. Across the country there are two distinct seasons in which the majority of calves will be born. Farmers and ranchers signify them as fall and spring even though calves can be born any day of the year. For many farmers across the country, the spring calving season is beginning, and well be seeing many new calves in pastures and fields in the next few months. After awaiting the arrival of the calves for nine months, farmers and ranchers spend extra time checking their cows when calving season arrives. Farmers often check on them multiple times throughout the night and some even set up cameras to watch the cows 24/7. Much like a nurse, farmers and ranchers are on call to assist their mother cows in giving birth when complications arise. Farmers must take extra care with heifers, female cows that have not given birth before. Also, once the calf has arrived, farmers and ranchers sometimes need to play the role of lactation therapist to teach the calves how to eat and the cows how to nurse to insure calves get a healthy start and have enough to eat. Occasionally, mother cows are not able to produce enough milk or are lost in the birthing process. If this occurs, farmers and ranchers bottle feed calves until they are able to eat grain and hay. Despite the extra time and care required during calving season, farmers and ranchers know that the calves they help welcome into the world are worth the late nights and early mornings.
Box 277 Central City, NE 68826 Roto-Mix now available with new staggered rotor system. Call for free DVD!
Boars & Bred Gifts York-Duroc-Hamp & F1 Cross,Outdoor Conditioned.
Livestock Mixing & Feeding Equipment Commercial Manure Spreaders Electronic Scales TOM PULLEN SALES REPRESENTATIVE WATTS: 1-800-658-4375 BUS. (308) 946-3068 or 946-2224 RES. (308) 946-2152 FAX: (308) 946-2672 See www.billsvolume.com for pictures and information on our used equipment.
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Simple setup and operation Automatic signal transitioning with Flex Mode Sub-inch accuracy with RTK Technical support troubleshooting from the cab Contact your Ag Leader precision ag experts for details!
NMC Technologies
Columbus | Doniphan | Lincoln | Norfolk | North Platte | Omaha | Scottsbluff
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Humboldt - De Soto - Iowa Falls - Union - Manchester Britt - Hudson - Bayard - Chariton - Wayne, NE 800-760-7871 Anytime www.gncmp.com
ready for the next growing season with off-season maintenance by Valley .
SEED AGRICULTURAL CHEMICALS FERTILIZER GRAIN FEED BULK OIL, FUEL & PROPANE DELIVERY ON FARM TIRE SERVICE AG AVIATION (800) 642-6795 www.auroracoop.com
Its important to maintain your investment, and your Valley dealer knows how to do just that! Reduce in-season breakdowns and crop damaging downtime next growing season by scheduling your maintenance inspection with your local Valley dealer.
WIRE WINDER
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ALLIANCE WESTERN VALLEY IRRIGATION, INC 308-762-5450 800-762-5460 ATKINSON GREEN VALLEY IRRIGATION, INC. 402-925-2858 www.greenvalleyirr@hotmail.com
BASSETT PERFECT VALLEY IRRIGATION 402-684-2321 Dealer Imprint perfectvalley@huntel.net BRUNING SOUTHEAST VALLEY IRRIGATION 402-353-6775 southeastvalleyirrigation@yahoo.com
For a dealer nearest you go to: commonsensemfg.com or call 605-598-4157 or 605-216-0687 (cell)
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800-237-9620
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HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSIONS for Combines, Swathers, Skidsteers, IH Tractors. Units tested. Spring special: Get your Combines, Swathers, & Forage Harvester hydros remanned & tested now & receive a deferred warranty. Spring special on 5 yr warranty IH Torque Ampliers with complete kit. Free outbound shipping in the Contiguous U.S. on TA kit (Mar-May only). 50 years experience on Hyd. and Mech. TAs TOLL FREE: 877-525-2875 WASHINGTON, KANSAS www.herrsmachine.com
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Overhead bulk bins available in any design, size, and conguration. Built for your specic needs. Standard units 14-54 ton, larger units also available.
September 23-26, 2013 View the fall foliage from the deck of a Riverboat!
Your nearest Farm Bureau agent would be glad to hear from you:
Adams 462-2920
1902 W. 2nd Street, Hastings Rodney Hunt, LUTCF, ChFC, AEP
Dawson
Douglas/Omaha
934-2232
Kearney-Franklin 832-2290
640 N. Minden Ave., Minden Randy Myers
Adams 463-2111
813 W. 2nd, Hastings Marty Demuth
Antelope 887-4842
104 W. 11th, Neligh Al Stelling, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF Keith Zuhlke, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF
252 Vincent Ave., Chappell Steve Fischer 212 10th St., Wakefield Stan McAfee, LUTCF
Keith-Arthur
284-3930
3309 31st St. #8, Columbus Eric Stuthman 301 S. Main, Humphrey Carol Wemhoff
Kimball-Banner Knox
235-3085 373-4600
Red Willow
Boone
395-6363 762-4505
1900 E. Military, Ste. 248B, Fremont Sherry Leriger, LUTCF 202 N. Main St., Hooper Alisa Schlueter
Box Butte
Dundy 423-5793
1303 A Street, Benkelman Jim Gleason
Lancaster/Lincoln 420-7453
2455 Pine Lake Rd., Ste. 100, Lincoln Michael Kastens Jason Schluckebier David Duff
Fillmore
Douglas 758-6633
920 N 204th Street, Ste. 160, Elkhorn Troy Perchal
Lancaster/Lincoln
477-6262
Frontier Gage
3915 Ave. N, Ste. A, Kearney Don Snyder, LUTCF Rick Smith, LUTCF
Douglas 779-7211
5728 S. 144th, Omaha Jon Christensen Jason Wickham Shane Myers Joe Pane
106 East 1st, Curtis Phil Hinrichs 3216 N. 6th., Beatrice Curt Spilker Anthony Schnuelle Darrell Saathoff
3200 O Street, Suite C, Lincoln Tom Banderas Ryan Schmeits Brock Roth
915 Main Ave., Ste. 8, Crete Todd Bohlmeyer 201 State Hwy. 74, Tobias Doug Francis 113 W. 3rd, Wilber Doug Francis
Lancaster/Lincoln
4 21-9100
Buffalo
234-4922
Garfield Hall
728-3400 382-5707
5550 S. 59th St., Ste. 24, Lincoln Jack Russell Mike Jurado Sonny Lane
Sarpy
Lancaster/Lincoln
4 21-2888
Douglas/Omaha
4 93-5900
12 East Railroad Street, Kearney John Roschewski 144 Front St., Elm Creek Derek Barnes
2065 N. 120th, Omaha Don Christensen 7733 L St., Omaha Celeste Bunde
2118 Kent Ave., Grand Island Kyle Sawyers, LUTCF Edmund Rocky Kershaw, LUTCF
5445 Red Rock Lane, Ste. 200, Lincoln Chuck Severin Dustin Lottman
Sarpy 829-5422
8410 S. 73rd Pz #108, Papillion Akil Davis Adrian Diaz Melissa Muths Luper Akough Mike Cosgrove
Hall
3341 State St., Ste. C, Grand Island Lee Mohr 382-5093 Stacey Rust 382-5093
249 Cherry Hill Blvd., Ste. 2, Lincoln Melissa Wheeler 1401 N. Cotner, Ste. 201, Lincoln Ryan Rohl
Sarpy
Douglas/Omaha 884-4410
16944 Audrey St., Ste. 5, Omaha David Burke, LUTCF Michael Jenkins Troy Blaine
Hall
384-1134
Saunders Saunders
Butler Cass
Douglas/Omaha 614-0707
7114 N. 102 Cr., Omaha Matt Guzinski Todd Noecker, LUTCF, CLTC
710 N. Webb Rd. East Wing, Grand Island Kris Jerke Ashley Lemburg Ed Mandeville Abbie Siemers
Lancaster/Waverly 786-0465
13220 Callum Dr., Ste. 3, Waverly Rusty Wellman
113 East 5th, Wahoo Kyle Cooper 1408 Silver St., Ashland Patrick Liewer
Hamilton Harlan
694-2399
Scottsbluff-Sioux 635-8005
108 East 19th, Scottsbluff Richard Bretthauer 101 E. 22nd, Scottsbluff Tim Jordening, LUTCF
Douglas/Omaha
991-8200
211 16th, Aurora J.J. Rother 604 West Main, Alma Ray Bunnell
928-2232
Scottsbluff-Sioux 635-0900 Scottsbluff Seward 633-1684 641-8336 638-4566 282-1000 768-6218 385-2208
Cass
Douglas/Omaha
614-3187
Hitchcock
866-950-3276
Cedar Chase
312 Main Street, Trenton Jim Gleason 130 S. 4th St., ONeill Barbara Hesse
222 W 27th St., Ste 200, Scottsbluff Mark Boles 424 Main St., Seward Lisa Eggerling
Madison-Stanton
504 N. 13th, Norfolk Brad Bosh Rick Kuehner Brandon Doke
3 79-3237
Cherry
15728 West Center Rd., Omaha Jason Smith 4602 S. 132nd St., Omaha Troy Perchal
503 N. Hill Street, Atkinson Carmen Stauth 504 W. Douglas, O'Neill Carmen Stauth
Madison-Stanton Merrick
109 N. Main, Hay Springs Rhonda Baseggio 113 N. Main, Gordon Rhonda Baseggio
Cheyenne
Howard Jefferson
Clay
773-4272
1105 S. 16th St., Central City Dick Evers, LUTCF Ann Heinen, LUTCF
Morrill Nance
262-1740 536-3323
Thurston
Douglas/Omaha
509-8466
Colfax
Johnson
330 Broadway St., Fullerton JJ Rother 1919 J, Auburn Lavell Clark Doug Kubik
Valley-ShermanGarfield-Wheeler 728-3216
1516 L Street, Ord Harold Benton
Nemaha-Richardson 274-3189
Cuming Cuming
Valley-ShermanGarfield-Wheeler 728-3400
220 S. 14th St., Ord Greg Duryea
305 Main St., Bancroft Stan McAfee, LUTCF 1012 Ave. E, Wisner Jason Schweers
Nuckolls
879-3377 269-2541
Custer-Blaine-Loup 872-6433
616 South C, Broken Bow Ed Duryea Travis Duryea
Otoe
1565 Washington St., Blair Troy Perchal 318 Main St., Wayne Lynette Krie, LUTCF
Dakota
494-3972
Call your local Farm Bureau agent to see how we make it simple to protect your family, home, car and business.
Pawnee-Richardson 852-2125
624 G St. Pawnee City Ryan Rohl
901 W. 21st, Ste. 2, So. Sioux City Colin Ross Chris Buchholz
Perkins Phelps
Securities & services offered through FBL Marketing Services, LLC , 5400 University Ave., West Des Moines, IA 50266, 877/860-2904, Member SIPC. Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company+*, Western Agricultural Insurance Company+*, Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company+*/West Des Moines, IA. + Affiliates *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial Services M082 (2-12)
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Dawes
432-5062
Dawson
411 East Pacific, Lexington Chase Wolf 324-4000 Rick Trampe 324-6355
Pierce
Douglas 334-2743
Dawson
537-2257
Platte
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Spring Is On the Way, Start Thinking About Vegetable for Your Garden
page 9B
Members of Nebraska Farm Bureaus board of directors were in Washington, D.C., March 3-6 as part of a national affairs visit. Farm Bureau leaders met with all five members of Nebraskas Congressional delegation. Here Congressman Adrian Smith listens as Nebraska Farm Bureaus Board of Directors Steve Nelson, president; Mark McHargue, first vice president; and board members Del Ficke and Myles Ramsey express concerns about the proposed cuts to federal meat inspectors as part of the sequester. Board members also shared support for development of a new farm bill that would help farmers and ranchers manage risk, but not guarantee a profit. sequester fix only perpetuates Congress inability to pass a farm bill, said Nelson. The drought that has plagued Nebraska was also top of mind for farm leaders in their discussions. Leaders urged support for a farm bill that would renew several livestock disaster programs that ran out of funding in 2011, which were not given funding in the farm bill extension passed by Congress earlier this year. With the severity of the drought in 2012 and the strong prospect for continued drought conditions in 2013, it is critical that livestock disaster programs are reauthorized as a tool to help those livestock producers that will have considerably fewer options available to manage drought this year, said Nelson. In addition to Nelson, Farm Bureau leaders participating in the trip were Nebraska Farm Bureau Board Members: Nathan Bartles of Elk Creek, Del Ficke of Pleasant Dale, Mark McHargue of Central City, Scott Moore of Bartley, Kevin Peterson of Osceola, Myles Ramsey of Kenesaw, Tanya Storer of Whitman, and Sherry Vinton of Whitman.
First Leg of USMEF Market Expo Wraps up in Peru; Team Moved on to Panama
Steve Nelson, Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation president, is traveled with a contingent of pork, beef, soybean and corn producers participating in the 2013 U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) Market Expo. USMEF concluded its activities in Peru March 12 and traveled to Panama City next. The Market Expo is a market education program in which agricultural leaders from state and national USMEF member organizations travel to key markets to learn more about foreign marketing activities for U.S. beef and pork. The group toured the facilities of Oregon Foods, a Lima-based company that is a major importer and distributor of U.S. beef. Oregon Foods Director Federico Russo explained the attributes of U.S. beef that appeal to his Peruvian foodservice and retail customers and the Market Expo team had the opportunity to observe the companys portion control, packaging, labeling, cold storage and distribution processes. Its great to see high-quality U.S. meat being served in Lima restaurants and the growth potential that exists here, said Nelson. But its also gratifying to see the large volume of offal and underutilized cuts being used here, because exporting these U.S. Meat Export Federation Market Expo participants observe Perus first-ever retail promotion of U.S. pork in Limas Tottus supermarkets. proud to be a part of Missouri Corn and to know that our support of USMEF helps make this possible. While Peru has been a reliable importer of U.S. beef and beef variety meat for several years (2012 exports to Peru totaled 12,887 metric tons valued $29.7 million), Peruvian imports of U.S. pork are still in their infancy. Pork has not traditionally been a major element of the Peruvian diet, but a growing number of middle class consumers are becoming interested in purchasing higher-quality pork cuts. During the trip they observed Perus first in-store promotion for U.S. pork, which USMEF South America representative Jessica Julca coordinated with the Tottus supermarket chain. The Peruvian image of pork is that it is an item that must be deep-fried, Julca said. But this is gradually changing as consumers gain exposure to higher-quality pork cuts. Over time, we see growing opportunities for U.S. pork in Peru. The Market Expo team also went to Panama visiting importers, processors and cold storage facilities. Nelson was part of 13 people who made up the Market Expo team. The group was from Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and Mexico.
products certainly adds significant value to our livestock. The team enjoyed lunch at La Bistecca restaurant, which exclusively features U.S. beef on its menu and makes tremendous use of underutilized U.S. beef cuts. One of the items served to the Market Expo group was the traditional Peruvian dish anticuchos grilled slices of U.S. beef heart. They also enjoyed a beef and vegetable stew made with U.S. beef knuckle. Another highlight was a tour of the beef tripe processing plant operated by Halema, which is also a very large importer of U.S. beef. The team observed the tripe processing and packaging methods
used by the company and learned about the use of tripe in Peruvian cuisine. Halema also imports U.S. beef hearts, with Commercial Manager Carlos Montero pointing out that the company recently increased its purchases of U.S. hearts since Peru closed to Brazilian beef following the December 2012 announcement of Brazils first BSE case. The business contacts USMEF has developed here in Peru and the relationships it has with key buyers has really been an eyeopener for me, said Jim Stuever of Dexter, Mo., a corn, soybean, wheat, rice and cotton farmer who represents the Missouri Corn Growers Association. It really makes me
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Eating healthy is popular with consumers right now. Some people look for that silver bullet to give them healthier eating habits and being gluten-free is the silver bullet for some. A gluten-free diet is used by people with celiac disease.
Store brands are increasing in the percentage of overall sales at grocery stores. You can use steaks as an example of this trade down effect as people buy more sirloin steak rather than New York Strips, or they will buy the store brand canned veg-
Governors Fly Around March 19, 2013 Tecumseh, Neb. Omaha, Neb. Wayne, Neb. Photos by Craig Head, Tina Henderson and Kassi Williams
Gov. Dave Heineman met with Omaha Bryan FFA chapter members during the Nebraska Farm Bureau Ag Day celebration in Omaha/Papillion. Pictured from left are Omaha Bryan FFA members Austin Martinez, Andrea Widhalm and Alejandra Alvarado. Nearly 70 people attended the event.
Nearly 90 people attended the Nebraska Farm Bureau Ag Day celebration in Tecumseh March 19. Pictured from left are Nathan Dorn, Hickman; Jim Erickson, Johnson County Farm Bureau board member; Tim Beebe, Michaels Food; and Cathy Heetderks, Sunny Side Farms.
Doug Temme (left) and his son John (right) answer questions from Gov. Dave Heineman (center) about the family dairy during the Nebraska Farm Bureau Ag Day celebration north of Wayne, Neb. Nearly 50 people attended the event.
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There are more than 180 species of pigs, found on every continent except Antarctica. Pigs are often thought to be dirty, but actually keep themselves quite clean. Most pigs are kept inside barns where the producer uses fans and misters to keep them comfortable, clean and safe. Pigs do not have sweat glands and need a controlled environment to stay comfortable. The average market weight of todays lean hog is about 265 pounds. Although pork is very popular in the United States, it is China that is the No. 1 producer and consumer of fresh pork. Pigs can run about 7 miles per hour.
The key to raising a leaner pig is health and nutrition, something that is considerably easier to manage in a more controlled environment.
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Nebraska Farm Bureau is accepting applications for scholarships from students needing assistance in paying for college. awarded to Farm Bureau members only; contact Hayes County Farm Bureau at 308286-3431. Holt County: Holt County Memorial Scholarship Fund; 2 $500 scholarships awarded to Farm Bureau member families; preference to applicants entering an agrelated field; contact Farm Bureau office in ONeill or Atkinson. Howard County: 1 $500 scholarship awarded; ag-related field and preference to Howard County members; applications due April 13; contact Margie Townsend at 308754-5481. Kearney/Franklin County: A total of $1,000 to Kearney/Franklin county students; ag-related field has priority; contact Kearney/Franklin County Farm Bureau at 308832-2290. Keith County: 3 $150 scholarships awarded; must be a Keith County member; contact Sherry Gies at 308-239-4497. Kimball/Banner County: 2 $250 scholarships awarded for ag-related field; applications due April 15; contact Beverly Atkins at 308-682-5647. Knox County: 6 $250 scholarships awarded; for Farm Bureau members in Knox County; contact Knox County office at 402-373-4600. Lancaster County: The Lancaster County Farm Bureau Scholarships are administered by Southeast Community College and by the University of Nebraska Foundation for UNL and NCTA. Students who are residents of Lancaster County and/or who graduate from a high school in Lancaster county are eligible for a scholarship. They need to pursue a course of study in agriculture at Southeast Community College or NCTA, or declare a major in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at UNL. Students who are interested in a scholarship need to contact the school they plan to attend. Contact Herschel Staats at 402483-5673. Lincoln County: Kent Boyer Memorial Scholarship administered by Community Foundation to graduating senior majoring in agriculture. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. Lincoln County: 2 $500 scholarships awarded; contact Lincoln County Farm Bureau at 308-534-9694. Madison County: 2 $250 scholarships awarded; for Farm Bureau members in Madison County; contact the Madison County Office at 402-371-1520. Merrick County: Up to 3 scholarships awarded; available to Farm Bureau members; contact the Merrick County office at 308-946-3893. Morrill County: 2 $300 scholarships awarded; preference to agriculture majors; available to Morrill County members; contact Regina Rhodes at 308-262-0858. Nance County: 1 $200 scholarship awarded; ag-related field; applications due April 1; contact Bob McNeff at 308-5362836. Perkins County: $1,000 each year; 2 scholarships of $300 and 1 of $400; must be Farm Bureau member; ag-related field; contact Perkins County Farm Bureau at 308-352-4320. Pierce County: 1 $250 scholarship awarded; for Farm Bureau members in Pierce County; contact Pierce County office at 402-329-6284. Platte County: 2 $500 scholarships awarded; ag-related field with preference to Platte County members; applications due April 15; contact Stan Rosendahl at 402285-0469. Polk County: 2 $300 scholarships awarded; contact Abbie Peterson at 402-7472186. Rock County: 1 scholarship awarded; 1 $100 nursing scholarship; contact Loren Ammon at 402-244-5304. Saline County: 2 $250 scholarships awarded; ag-related field; must be a Saline County member; contact Debbie Lorenz at 402-826-4028. Scotts Bluff County: 3 $500 scholarships awarded; applications due April 14; contact Shannon Kampbell at 308-632-3082. Sarpy County: 1 or more $500 scholarship(s) awarded; applications due July 1; ag-related field; must be a Sarpy County member; can reapply and extend for 4 years; contact Sarpy County Farm Bureau at 402-339-8778. Saunders County: 1 or more $250 scholarship(s) awarded; applications due April 1; ag-related field; must be a Saunders County member; contact Sharon Vermeline at 402-443-3205. Thayer County: 1 $500 scholarship awarded; for Thayer County resident with plans to study in ag or ag-related field; deadline is March 1; contact Thayer CountyFarm Bureau at 402-768-6218. Thurston County: 2 $250 scholarships awarded; for Farm Bureau members in Thurston County; contact Joel Lamplot at 402-385-2452. Washington County: 4 $1,000 scholarships awarded; must be a Washington County member for a minimum of 2 years; deadline is March 15; contact Judy Geisler at 402-654-3685. Wayne County: 1 $1,000 scholarship awarded; contact Donald Liedman at 402585-4725. York County: 1 $500 scholarship awarded; contact Jerry Stahr at 402-366-0602.
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Nebraska Farm Bureau Leadership Academy Feb. 28 - March 1, 2013 Grand Island, Neb. Photos by Roger Berry
Tim Horn (standing), NFBF district director of member services for the northwest, presents on the Roles and Responsibilites of a County Farm Bureau to the Leadership Academy. Academy members pictured from left are Stephanie Hruby of Dawes County, Karah Perdue of York County and Andy Schmidt of Thayer County.
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Isnt It Spring, Yet?
One day it is sunny and warm with temperatures nearing 60 degrees. The next we find the wind howling, the temperature barely approaching 30 degrees and the ground covered with a deep blanket of snow. Nothing quite describes March in Nebraska better than those two days. Whether it is a curse placed upon the state basketball tournaments or Mother Nature playing cruel jokes on us, the month of March certainly is a time of varying weather. And while we are dealing with the fun Mother Nature throws at us, we also struggle to remember that spring will arrive, eventually. In fact, many times it arrives sooner than we expect. As we struggle to remember what spring feels like there are a number of things we all should consider doing in our gardens and landscapes when the weather allows. For many, no true growing season would be complete without the bountiful harvest from our vegetable gardens. While many store bought vegetables are tasty and nutritious there really isnt anything like the taste of our own homegrown crops. cauliflower and cabbage. However, make sure to read the instructions on the seed packages, or talk to your local nursery or extension office for more specific instructions. While the March weather is too extreme to be planting the tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers, you certainly could begin growing these plants from seed indoors so the young plants are more established when you can plant them in the garden outside. While starting your seeds inside can be an easy project that is rewarding to the adults, it can also be a wonderful learning experience for your children or grandchildren. While you may work indoors preparing for your vegetable garden, there are also many tasks that can be completed in your landscape outside as the weather permits. You can begin these tasks as your lawn and landscape beds begin to firm up as the frost begins to leave the ground. Start by studying and preparing your landscape for the return of spring. Cut back any perennial tops not cut back last fall including any perennial grasses left up for winter interest. Apply a good pre-emergent like Preen followed by a generous coating of mulch to thicken the coverage between two and three inches deep. Check your larger shrubs and trees for any broken branches for removal, but in most cases wait on major trimming until you see buds swelling. This will allow you to know which stems or branches have died back and should be removed. And with the drought last year, consider watering your turf and plants, especially any evergreens. While most years watering would not be as important this early, with the drought and somewhat drier winter many of our plants may be struggling to survive without a watering from us. Finally, begin doing your homework and final preparations for the coming landscape planting season. Make sure your tools are in good shape and sharpened. Stop into your local garden center, like Campbells, to learn about newly introduced plants, and begin planning on which plants you may want to remove and replace with new plants, or which areas of your landscape are open and ready for new plantings. Sometimes by planting new plants with improved disease, insect and tolerance to weather extremes you can avoid problems you would have to address through the growing season. Also be ready to reseed areas of your lawn or replace some plants in your landscape you may have lost to the drought and winter. This spring may require increased replacements versus more normal years with the extreme drought last summer and fall. Suffice it to say living in Nebraska comes with its benefits and trials. The weather in March being only one of the many challenges we get to face. And, while this year may be a bit more challenging due to the fickle weather of March in Nebraska and the results of last years drought, I wouldnt trade it for anything. And yes, spring will return once again to make life a bit more fun. Just give it some time. It always shows up, eventually. Andy Campbell is manager of Campbells Nurseries Landscape Department. A Lancaster County Farm Bureau member, Campbells is a family-owned Nebraska business since 1912. It offers assistance for all your landscaping and gardening needs at either of its two Lincoln garden centers or through its landscape design department. Visit www.campbellsnursery.com or follow Campbells Nursery on Facebook at facebook.com/ CampbellsNursery.
While it is too early to consider planting all of your vegetables, there are a number of crops that are best planted in the cool weather of March and very early April. These crops are vegetables that can be planted even if the danger of frosts and freezes have not yet left our area. Radishes, peas, carrots, onions and potatoes are all crops that might be planted as soon as the ground is workable. Lettuce, spinach, collards and kales are crops that should be planted slightly later near the early part of April along with broccoli,
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The seminar is free and lunch will be provided by Nebraska Farm Bureau.
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14B
WANT ADS
FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: NH windrower 1475, swing hitch 16; Freeman 1592, large square baler; irrigation gearhead, 90 hp, runs at 2200 rpm; 8 gated pipe PVC and aluminum; towline tractor, shop built. Call Platte Center, 402-276-0776. FOR SALE: Allis 185 diesel, 1972, dual hydraulics, new tires, clutch brakes; JD 220 disc, new 22 front blades, cylinder and tires; antique lightning rods and
glass bulbs; 8x60 federal auger with swing hopper. Call Platte Center, 402-276-0385. WANTED: One way disk in working condition. Call Allen, 402-635-2372. FOR SALE: A1 mist sprayer, 55 gallon tank, 20 HP Honda engine, used very little; 2 grain bins, 7 and 9 thousand bushel, to be moved. Call Ainsley, 308935-1859.
FOR SALE: 16.9x38 tractor tire, 40 percent, no breaks, ruined one so replaced both, with tube, $200. Call Norfolk, 402-454-3785. FOR SALE: Pair of pallet forks to attach to front end of loader bucket, $100. Call Henderson, 402-723-4378. FOR SALE: 2008 Timpte 50 foot, 3 axle grain trailer, 78 inch sides, new brakes and shocks within 5,000 miles, 24.5 inch aluminum,
weight 11,000, tires and tarp good, 50 inch trap doors, $34,000. Call Blue Hill, 402-469-5638. FOR SALE: 2 bottom plow 3-14 International, cutters are good, lays are good. Call Pender, 402-385-2663. FOR SALE: 1964 Chevy 2 ton grain truck, Omaha Grain Box with stock rack, 292 Inline engine (new fuel pump), good read on all tires, $3,000 or OBO. Call North Platte, 308-
530-3447 or 308-534-0749. FOR SALE: Patriot 220 bushel seed tender, long auger, electric start; 325 bushel gravity wagon with hydraulic poly auger; Allis Chalmers dual wheel forklift 3 point forklift; all in very good condition. Call Verdigre, 402394-8602 or 402-668-7318. WANTED: Suitcase weights, 70 lbs, John Deere preferred but all others accepted. Call Lincoln, 402-432-8030.
We hope you can join us as we brainstorm ideas and concepts to start ag literacy efforts in your area of the state.
For more information contact Deanna Karmazin at 402-421-4408 or deannak@nefb.org.
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The DAYs ARe long buT The office hAs A PReTTY sWeeT vieW.
They work the land sun up til sun down every day rain or shine. Chances are, you dont think twice about the many ways Americas farmers and ranchers enhance our everyday lives. We rely on them for everything from comfortable clothing to quality meats and fresh produce. Thats why we continue to thank the farm families who work and care for this great land.
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