december 2012 union farmer

www.ndfu.orgUNION FARMER

16.

In this issue:

3. 22. More than justhorse sense

NDFU plans tripto Alaska

All about the state convention 21. Precision Ag

in January

CELEBRATING 85 YEARSDecember 2012 – Volume 59 Number 12

Mission Statement: North Dakota Farmers Union, guided by the principles of cooperation, legislation and education, is an organization committed to

the prosperity of family farms, ranches and rural communities.

NDFU President Woody Barth and Farmers Union Insurance General Manager Mark Anderson welcomed members to the state convention.

2Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

North Dakota Union FarmerThe UNION FARMER is published monthly by North Dakota Farmers Union at 1415 12th Ave SE, Jamestown N.D. 58401. Annual subscription is $25 annually with NDFU membership. Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, ND.

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EDITOR: Anne Denholm800-366-8331 • [email protected]: Send address changes to: NDFU, PO Box 2136Jamestown N.D. 58402-2136Copies mailed this issue: 34.677 • USPS 016-211

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:President: Elwood “Woody” BarthVice President: Bob KuylenSecretary: Ellen LindermanTreasurer: Terry BorstadJames Kerzman; Wes Niederman Jr.; Dennis Stromme; Jim Teigen; Ben Vig

[email protected]

Happy

Holidays

Enjoy asafe

season!


Convention held in Grand Forks

NDFU President Woody Barth and former U.S. Senator Byron Dorgan, who gave the keynote address during convention.

BY ANNE DENHOLM, NDFU

The state’s largest farm organization held their annual convention at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks Nov. 16-17, 2012.

The convention featured speakers and workshops that explored key agricultural issues.

NDFU President Woody Barth said, “The convention really showcased the importance of agriculture. Our members voted on important policies that will direct our activities for the next year. We must work together to continue our mission of providing enough food, fiber and fuel to the world.”

Several special orders of business were passed by the delegates, dealing with the farm bill, crop insurance, state budget and the statute on animal rights.

Members voted to re-elect the following positions:

PRESIDENTElwood “Woody” Barth, SolenVICE PRESIDENTBob Kuylen, South Heart DISTRICT 2 DIRECTORJim Teigen, RugbyDISTRICT 4 DIRECTORJim Kerzman, Mott DISTRICT 6 DIRECTOREllen Linderman, CarringtonNew technology was integrated

into this year’s convention with the introduction of the automated audience response system. Special

“clickers” were distributed among members and with a push of a button, votes were automatically tabulated within 20 seconds.

Annual reports from Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Company and North Dakota Farmers Union were reviewed as well as financial information and bylaws for the organization.

Breakout sessions on taxes, the fertilizer market, oil mineral rights, supplemental insurance and long-term care insurance were also featured.

National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson accepted a check for $11,073 from NDFU for the Feeding America project. Funds were raised through the summer youth camp co-op store, matching donations from the NDFU Board of Directors and other gifts.

Johnson said, “For the second year in a row, Farmers Union members really stepped up to meet Howard Buffett’s challenge and showed they really care about the less fortunate among us.”

World Farmers Organization President Robert Carlson gave an update on international challenges.

Other highlights included a family game night, the annual Torchbearer ceremony and an exciting D.J. dance with light show and photo booth.

Former Senator Byron Dorgan from Regent, N.D., was the keynote speaker. Dorgan served as a congressman and senator for North Dakota for 30 years before retiring from the U.S. Senate in 2011. In his years of legislative service, Sen. Dorgan was a true friend to North Dakota Farmers Union.

In his opening address, Dorgan outlined his extensive background with Farmers Union and reflected on future challenges.

He said, “This country must be prepared to put America on a better path. We need to do better. It is important for all of us to keep an eye on the future. We all understand the ability to do things together. It’s more powerful than what we do alone. That’s cooperative spirit.”

He credited his hometown for teaching him business, how to fix things, the importance of education and helping neighbors. “These are lessons that you carry with you throughout your life,” Dorgan added.

Dorgan answered questions from the audience and concluded by saying, “Farmers Union has always been an organization to represent our rural interests, to push ahead and to step up to lead. That’s what we need to do to make America a better place. That’s why I’ll always have Farmers Union in my heart.” s


CONVENTION

Amy Volk and Olivia Throener had fun on the inflatable games Friday night during convention’s family night.

The climbing wall was set up in the main arena at the Alerus Center during Friday night’s activities.

Dakota Jilek and Alyssa Steiner enjoyed working at the convention this year.

Kids of all ages enjoyed swimming in the water parkduring the state convention.

Andrew Anderson, Ashley Herman and Maddie Bopp helped supervise the children’s games on family night and managed to have some fun while working.

Kathryn Fleming of Warwick wasn’t shy about asking a question and making her voice heard at the state convention.

Vice President Bob Kuylen and Dave Teigen presided over the policy and action discussion on Saturday.


Neil Ness and Lance Boyer presented a breakout session on long term care insurance.

SNAPSHOTS Breakout sessions

Four special breakout sessions were held on Friday afternoon and all were well attended.

Neil Ness and Lance Boyer presented a breakout session on long term care insurance. They described how local Farmers Union Insurance agents can help customers and how long term care insurance can assist with medical expenses. Costs and risks were also outlined.

North Dakota State University’s Dave Saxowsky gave good advice when dealing with land leases and agreements. North Dakota Tax Commissioner Cory Fong was on hand to lead a workshop about upcoming tax challenges. CHS sent Cheryl Schmura to explain how the fertilizer market has been challenged with time, shipping obstacles, pirates and risky delivery methods and why building a plant in North Dakota will be a good investment.

All breakout sessions were well attended including NDSU Dave Saxowsky’s presentation on Bakken oil landowner rights, leases and other agreements.

North Dakota Tax Commissioner Cory Fong led a workshop on tax breakdowns while Cheryl Schmura of CHS talked about new opportunities in the fertilizer market.

Farmers Union Insurance General Manager Mark Anderson welcomed two representatives from Holborn, Jeff Hawn and Jon Christianson, to the convention. Both Hawn and Christianson work as reinsurance brokers.

New county presidents were elected this fall including these five members who were at the state convention. Pictured in the front row, left to right: Keith Smith, Benson County; and Ron Van Bruggen, LaMoure County. Back row, left to right: Myron Jacobsen, Towner County; Brittany McInnes, Traill County; and Allie Sagness, Burke County. Not present: Roger Klym, Billings/Golden Valley; Devin Jacobson, Divide County; Mark Sitz, McHenry County; Delbert Eszlinger, McIntosh County; Josh Norby, McKenzie County; Rodrick Lentz, Richland County; and Patricia Patrie, Wells County.

New County Presidents


Scholarships awarded

Mikayla Young of Napoleon and Cassidy Ziesch of Pettibone were named recipients of the $1,000 Bergman Scholarship to help offset the cost of their college education.

Young is the daughter of Than and Charlotte Young from Napoleon. She hopes to pursue a nursing career at North Dakota State University.

Ziesch is the daughter of Robin and Michelle Ziesch from Pettibone. She will be studying education at North Dakota State University. convention.

The Bergman Scholarship was established by Alan Bergman, past president of North Dakota Farmers Union. Applicants must be current Torchbearers. The scholarship is awarded by a panel that evaluates each applicant’s responses to questions relating to Farmers Union, rural issues and personal leadership. s

SYAC helps at conventionBY ANNE DENHOLM, NDFU

It wasn’t all fun and games for members of the Senior Youth Advisory Council during the North Dakota Farmers Union state convention. All five members of the board participated in sessions, helped with youth activities and worked at various jobs during the two-day event.

The 2013 council members include Forrest Carlson, son of Maureen and Donald Carlson of Glenburn; Dakota Jilek, daughter of Carol and Gary Jilek of Dickinson; Kyle Knutson, son of Brad and Rose Knutson of Kathryn; RaeLyn Leier, daughter of Francis and Barbra Leier of Fargo; and Adam Long, son of Richard and Susan Long of Berlin.

Each council member serves as a liaison for the NDFU youth program and helps define issues that impact youth today. The board was elected by their peers during Farmers Union senior camps throughout the summer. The council meets three times during the year and attend two senior camps the following summer at no cost. During convention, each member introduced one of the key speakers.

According to Leier, Farmers Union has been a life-changing organization. “Going to Farmers Union camp has been a home away from home for me. It’s really changed my life and my views.”

Knutson agreed. He said, “I have a better understanding of how co-ops work and how we need to work together, too.”

For Long, Farmers Union has opened new doors. “At camp you can be who you want to be and show your true colors. I really look forward to meeting new people and making new friends.”

Jilek added that Farmers Union has helped her break out of her shell. “I’ve learned to be myself. No one judges you at camp and you have fun. I’ve learned how to get up in front of people and speak out.”

Carlson concluded, “I want to give back to the Farmers Union family. SYAC will help me make camp the best it’s ever been.” s

State Youth Advisory Council members from left to right: Forrest Carlson, Dakota Jilek, Kyle Knutson, Dallon Bitz (advisor), Alyssa Steiner (advisor), Adam Long and RaeLyn Leier.



Thirty-four youth from around the state earned the North Dakota Farmers Union Torchbearer Award this year. A special ceremony was held on Saturday, Nov.17 to recognize their achievements.

The Torchbearer Award is the highest honor that senior youth may achieve in Farmers Union. Youth must complete five consecutive years of senior youth work to be eligible for this award.

Tyler Van Bruggen of Valley City served as the keynote speaker. Tyler is the son of Ron and Gayann Van Bruggen of rural Litchville, N.D. and earned his Torchbearer award in 2002 and was a recipient of the Alan Bergman scholarship. He is a product of North Dakota Farmers Union youth program, attending years of day classes and Farmers Union camp, working as a summer camp counselor and establishing an active Farmers Union collegiate chapter at North Dakota State University.

In 2006, he graduated from North Dakota State University. Following graduation, he accepted a job as a Farmers Union Insurance

agent in Valley City, North Dakota. In 2011 he was given the managers award as Financial Products Agent of the year.

He and his wife, Angela, volunteer as youth leaders with the Barnes County Farmers Union youth program and have two daughters Kylie (3) and Maya (7 months). Van Bruggen volunteers and supports many community projects and is a leader in Valley City.

In his opening remarks, he said, “In today’s society, there is little room for mediocrity so become educated and motivated. Go above and beyond what’s expected. Continue to strive for those things that will make you better.”

He reflected about his background with Farmers Union and went on to give the Torchbearers some key advice for the future. Van Bruggen said, “Through Farmers Union, you have gotten the leadership skills that will pay dividends in the years ahead.Do something you enjoy and do it to the best of your ability.”

NDFU president Woody Barth presented a candle to each Torchbearer as they crossed the stage. Barth commented, “We pledge to build a better world for all, to build a prosperous world for agriculture and to build a strong Farmers Union. You have earned the right to be a Torchbearer and I am confident that your leadership skills will serve you well in the future.”

NDFU Education Director, Jennifer Sundeen concluded, “Tonight is the end of one chapter of your life and the beginning of another. We have faith that you will go out into the world and make a positive influence with the gifts and talents you have been given. If you believe in yourself and support each other, you will be successful.”s

Lighting the torch for NDFU

Torchbearers for 2012 included, from left to right, front row: Amanda Bitz, Mikaela Long, Jasmine Stevens, Kellie Tougas, Sierra Lanenga and Kerstan Swift. Standing, from left to right: Megan Spitzer, Kyle Knutson, Cole Musland, Justin Thorson, Jamie Thorson, Adam Liesener, Kody Wagner, Pat Swift and Kayla Barton. Back row, from left to right: Nicholas Fleming, Caleb Schuster, Garret Roen and Sawyer Blumhardt. Not pictured: Austin Svenningsen, Paige Weigel, Megan Schlosser, Jesse Schwab, Jacob Greff, Cassidy Ziesch, Jessica Long, Mikayla Young, Mitch Ingerson, Evan Riemer, Amanda Ockert, Haley Donnelly, Kendra Heier, Kendra Perdue and Stephanie Sundhagen.

Tyler Van Bruggen

Pat Swift and Cole Musland earned their Torchbearer Awards this year and were elected to the National Youth Advisory Council earlier this year. Both men traveled to Washington, D.C. this fall where they met with NFU President Roger Johnson.


Policy and Action Committee members pictured, front row, left to right: Les Koll, Laurie Volk, Eden McLeod, Kim Klose. Middle row, left to right: David Teigen, Kristen Vetter. Back row, left to right: Rhonda Barton, Andy Fedje, Laura Dease, Dejon Bakken and Ronda Throener.

Delegates selected for NFU convention

DISTRICT 1Alex Bata Aaron Nord Adam Leiphon Alternates: Beau Locken Keith Smith DISTRICT 2 Bruce Anderson Tim Ostrem Loren Johnson Alternates: David Thom Sharon Kurtti DISTRICT 3Lisa Brekhus Stacey Johnson Alternates: Gayleen Grote Allie Sagness DISTRICT 4Dean Baar George Siverson Alternate: Libby Gravning DISTRICT 5Leland “Judge” Barth David Porsborg Alternates: Ron Bloom Larry Nagel DISTRICT 6Kasey Bitz Ron Van Bruggen Alternates: Judi Hintz Roy MuslandDISTRICT 7Rhonda Throener Brittany McInnes Alternates: Roger Zetocha Rodrick Lentz

National convention delegates selected

A $11,073.87 check was presented to National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson for the Feeding America project. Members of the board and SYAC were on hand to celebrate the donation.

Some new resolutions adopted into the 2013 Program of Policy & Action included:

• We oppose crop insurance eligibility being coupled with conservation requirements.

• In order to protect beginning and family farmers, we support limiting the overall premium subsidy an individual farmer can receive on federal crop insurance.

• Because the oil and gas gross production tax is imposed in lieu of property taxes on oil and gas producing properties, NDFU supports 80% of the oil and gas gross production tax going back to oil producing counties and townships.

• The privilege of initiated measures on the North Dakota ballot is too readily abused. We encourage making the initiated measure process more restrictive.

• The off-farm income threshold for farm home exemption should be set at $80,000.

• We favor increasing the bonding requirements for grain and livestock buyers operating in the state of North Dakota with that money being administered by a state-run bonding agency.

• To prevent unsafe driving by truckers, we urge the elimination of incentive pay based on the number of loads delivered.

• We encourage the federal

government to continue with tax incentives that will increase production of renewable fuels.

• We urge the legislature to review tax exemptions or “holidays” on oil production and extraction taxes.

• We support the requirement that private surface owners be granted the same surface use, and reclamation requirement as the state land department mandates for state land.

• We support the establishment of an independent oversight study to gauge the compliance with current oil and gas regulations.

For a complete list of resolutions, go to

www.ndfu.org

New resolutions for NDFU


Delegates passed these special orders of business during the state convention:

FARM BILLThis summer, the

U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Agriculture each passed a comprehensive five-year farm bill; however, the U.S.House of Representatives’ leadership failed to bring the Committee’s bill to the floor for a vote. As a result, a comprehensive, five-year farm bill did not receive final consideration by Congress, and the current farm bill expired on Sept. 30, 2012, ending disaster payment provisions, conservation programs, and a number of other programs.

Congress’s failure to pass a new five-year farm bill before the year’s end will leave farmers and ranchers without needed certainty for their operations’ viability. More broadly, the entire agricultural sector, including the rural businesses and lenders whose livelihoods are dependent upon farmers’ and livestock producers’ economic viability, also await the certainty of a five-year farm bill.

Our country is recovering from one of the most significant droughts in history, with most of the counties across the nation being declared agricultural disaster areas by the U.S. Department of Agriculture at some point during 2012, and 55 percent of the nation’s pasture and rangeland rated in poor to very poor condition.

While there has been some conversation in Congress of passing a mere extension of the current farm bill instead of a comprehensive new five-year farm bill, a five-year farm bill is the better approach to provide needed certainty, budget sacrifices, and address meaningful changes.

Therefore be it resolved, the membership of the North Dakota Farmers Union requests that the U.S. House of Representatives leadership allow the House

Committee on Agriculture bill proceed to the floor and subsequently to conference with the U.S. Senate.

Be it further resolved, the membership of the North Dakota Farmers Union advocates for a five-year farm bill as opposed to a mere extension of the current farm bill.

CROP INSURANCECrop insurance provides a risk

management tool to producers that balances responsible cost-sharing mechanisms and provides certainty to lending institutions in rural America. As such, it is a key pillar of our successful national farm policy. However, even though the proposed farm bills cut agriculture funding and reflect a sacrifice in rural America, crop insurance still has been the subject of unfair public scrutiny and misstatements.

Therefore be it resolved, the membership of the North Dakota Farmers Union continues to advocate that crop insurance remain a pillar of sound farm policy.

ANIMALS STATUTEThe members of North Dakota

Farmers Union resolve to continue its membership and support of the North Dakotans for Responsible Animal Care. NDRAC is a coalition of North Dakota agriculture interests, animal shelters, veterinarians, and zoos that has worked for months to develop comprehensive amendments to the current state statute titled

Humane Treatment of Animals. The NDRAC amendments protect all animals and their caretakers, set a standard of good stewardship, and put in place penalties against those who do not meet that standard.

North Dakota Farmers Union joined with other groups to oppose Measure

5 that would have amended the state statute because NDFU

believed the NDRAC legislative approach is more comprehensive and meaningful. Now, NDRAC is working to advocate that the state legislature support and pass its proposal. The members of North Dakota Farmers Union encourage the state legislature to pass the NDRAC proposal.

STATE BUDGETNorth Dakota’s economy

is strong because of a healthy agriculture sector, the harvest of its vast mineral and natural resources, and a growth of energy, technology, tourism and other economic sectors. As a result, North Dakota enjoys a significant and growing state budget surplus. Unfortunately, the needs in agriculture, rural North Dakota, and underserved sectors have remained unmet for decades. Because the North Dakota legislature is now in a position to address those needs and to invest in the future of North Dakota because of that surplus, be it resolved, the membership of the North Dakota Farmers Union encourages the state legislature to replenish and address unmet needs – including but not limited to infrastructure repair, property tax relief, education, health services – in rural North Dakota, and to be forward-looking and invest in the future of the state.

Special orders passed

The 2012-13 Board of Directors include from front row, left to right: Bob Kuylen, President Woody Barth and Ellen Linderman. Standing from left to right: Ben Vig, James Kerzman, Wes Niederman, Terry Borstad, Jim Teigen and Dennis Stromme.


ADAMS COUNTY • Oct. 29County courthouse, Hettinger• The egg and ham salad

sandwiches served were made from farm fresh eggs and farm raised pork from the Bill and Connie Hourigan farm

BARNES COUNTY • Nov. 4Valley City State University, Valley City• Kim and Megan McKay were

elected as new board members to replace outgoing directors –Barnes County has term limits for their board members

• youth leaders were recognized• awards for youth involvement

were handed out and children were dismissed from business

Farmers Union county conventions were held this fall throughout the state of North Dakota. Members were invited to review the year, make plans for future events, elect officers and adopt resolutions for the state convention. Discussion this year included legislative updates on the farm bill and measures 3, 4 and 5; candidate forums; new fertilizer plant project; state office updates; Washington, D.C. restaurants and educational opportunities. Please check with your own local organization for complete minutes. Here’s a brief overview

meeting to go swimming• adopted several resolutions for

state convention and elected delegates

• Jim Slag was re-elected as president

BENSON COUNTY • Oct. 28 Community center, Maddock• Keith Smith elected president;

Gary Smith as vice president• New director Christopher ArnstonBILLINGS/GOLDEN VALLEY Oct. 27St. Demetrius Church, Fairfield• President – elected Roger Klym• Vice-President – elected Orest

Baranko

County conventions held around state

The “Bag Ladies”(Wanda Etzel, Kyrah Kremer and Shania Mautz) entertained members at the Mercer County convention.

Retiring board members from Barnes County, on the left, Jeff Buchholz and Bill McKay with president Jim Slag.

Sioux County youth enjoyed a variety of games at the convention.

Musician/songwriter Chuck Suchy entertained members at the Dickey County convention.

Youth leaders from Barnes County were recognized at the county convention including, from left to right: Sherri Slag, Doris Slag, Brenda Bjork, Cindy Ross and Angela VanBruggen.

Burke County said goodbye to Marlow Nelson as president this year.

District 6 director, Ellen Linderman reported on Farmers Union events and activities at the Foster County convention.

Youth in front row left to Right: Braylen Bruns, Rylee Bjork, Grace Mueller, Charlotte Mueller, Emily McKay. Back Row: Mikaylah Ross, Jennifer Bennett, Amanda Bjork, Haylee Bjork.


BOTTINEAU COUNTY • Oct. 25Norway House, Bottineau• 85th annual meeting• Ken Klebe was re-elected

county president and Craig Johnson was re-elected vice-president; Lyle Gravseth was re-elected director

BOWMAN/SLOPE • NOV. 1Sweetwater Golf Course,

Bowman• re-elected George Siverson as

president and Terry Mrnak as vice-president

BURKE COUNTY • OCT. 26American Legion, Columbus• Allie Sagness was elected to

serve as the new president, replacing Marlow Nelson; Kayo Grub was elected vice president.

• Discussed rural water quality and the possibility of a diesel refinery in western North Dakota

BURLEIGH COUNTY • OCT. 15Tumbleweed Steakhouse,

Lincoln• 99th annual meeting • Arlene Olson was re-elected as

president; Denise Brown as vice president; and Marvin Dockter as a director.

• Verlyn Larson of Bismarck won a $100 gift card as a door prize.

CASS COUNTY • NOV 27in Casselton CAVALIER COUNTY • NOV, 2NDSU research center, Langdon• Robert Otto was re-elected

director• John Iverson was elected to the

board and will be the new vice president and Terry Jacobson was re-elected president

DICKEY COUNTY • Nov. 3American Legion, Forbes• Mark Bobbe and Rhonda Barton

were both re-elected to the board

• Gary Hokana was re-elected as president and Thor Sand was also re-elected to serve as the vice president

• Chuck Suchy provided entertainment after the meeting

DIVIDE COUNTY • Nov.5in Crosby• Elected Devin Jacobson, president

DUNN COUNTY • OCT. 26New Hradec Workmen’s Hall• Re-elected Shane Sickler as

president; David Sadowsky as vice president and directors Gregory Bezdicek, Roque Kadrmas and Russ Stein

EDDY COUNTY • OCT. 16Golf clubhouse, New Rockford • County members enjoyed cake

after a steak supper was servedEMMONS COUNTY • OCT. 22Senior center, Linton• Andrew Vetter as president; Don

Eberle as vice president; Darius Aberle secretary; and Cary Moch, treasurer

FOSTER COUNTY • OCT. 29Research center, Carrington• Darwin Topp and Tim Aljets were

both re-elected to the board as directors; Charles Linderman was re-elected as president and George Topp as vice-president

GRAND FORKS COUNTY • Nov. 1The Damm Bar & Gril, Larimore• Lonnie Arp was re-elected

president and Wayne Novak is stepping down as vice president; no one was re-elected to take his place; two board positions for three year terms are open

GRANT COUNTY • Nov, 3Our Place Cafe in Elgin• Delwin Petrick re-elected as

president; Jeff Striegel as vice-president; Evelyn Alt, Greg Scholes and Kathy Hoff as directors

• Grant County FFA members gave a report from their Washington, D.C. Leadership conference, funded with money raised by the group with camp clean-up

GRIGGS COUNTY • OCT. 22Pizza Ranch, Cooperstown• Donna Ronningen was

recognized for her work• President’s position remains open

but John will continue to serve until a replacement is found.

• better communication requested to include all vice presidents

• discussed how to get more young producers involved

• Judy Rahlf gave a report on youth• John Leininger and Lori

Christopherson were re-elected.

Adams County Board of Directors included: standing, from left to right: Connie Hourigan, DeJon Bakken and Bruce Hagen. Seated, from left to right: Bill Hourigan and Virginia Earsley.

Bottineau County Board of Directors include, front row from left to right: Susan Steen, and Wanda Gravseth. Back row from left to right: Craig Johnson (vice president), Ken Klebe (president) and Lyle Gravseth (director).

Emmons County youth were awarded with certificates including, from left to right: Angie Vetter, Taysia Aberle, Precious Vetter, Derek Vetter, Leader Lucinda Haak and Mya Vetter.

Emmons County Board of Directors include, from left to right: Leonard Weichel board member at large, Don Eberle vice president, Andrew Vetter president, Darius Aberle secretary, Cary Moch treasurer.

Grant County FFA chapter members include, from left to right: Grant County FFA Advisor Pete Hetle with Kaci Levorsen, Ashley Warner and Brandy Koepplin.

County conventions held around state


HETTINGER COUNTY • OCT. 28Mott Armory• Jan Ottmar re-elected as

president, Curt Wax as vice president, and Dave Witte and Jim Kerzman as directors

KIDDER COUNTY • OCT. 25Pettibone Community Hall• Duane Ziesch elected president;

Ron Martin as vice president and Judi Hintz as secretary/treasurer

• New director elected Sylvia MartinLaMOURE COUNTY • Nov. 2LaMoure Civic Center• Ron Van Bruggen was elected

president, Lynn Haro was elected vice president and Nick Mathern elected as a director

LOGAN COUNTY • OCT. 24Downtowner, Napoleon• Isadore Grosz was re-elected

to serve as a director; Bill Becker will continue to serve as president and Rick Marquart as vice-president

McHENRY COUNTY • OCT. 24Pioneer Bar, Velva• Served 76 people, the largest

attendance in years • Myron Blumhagen resigned

as county president and Mark Sitz was elected new president; Maxine Rognlien was elected vice president; Nathan Watne and Shawn Kaylor were elected county directors

McINTOSH COUNTY • Nov. 5Wishek Armory • Terry and Marsha Rath of Wishek

received a Farmers Union Ag Award and former McIntosh County Farmers Union President Terry Ulrich, along with Shari and Troy Scherr, were presented with Community Leadership Awards

• six county board members retired and were thanked for their years of service

• new board members elected included Delbert Eszlinger as president along with Brandon Meidinger, Larry Schauer and Scot Schaunaman

McKENZIE COUNTY • Oct. 24Community Center, Watford City• New president elected Josh

Norby and Kim Klose as vice

McLEAN COUNTY • Nov. 5Bev’s Cafe, Turtle Lake• served a packed house with

approximately 70 people in attendance.

• presented a bench in memory of Mike Erdmann

MERCER COUNTY • Oct. 17City Hall, Hazen• David Hauser was re-elected as

president and Kandie Kremer was elected vice president; John Smith was re-elected director

MORTON COUNTY • Oct. 25Seven Seas, Mandan• 75th annual convention • Ron Peltz and T.J. Schmidt were

re-elected directors; Jim Hopfauf was re-elected president and Dan B. Belohlavek as vice president

• Mandan High School Swing Choir entertained and a taco bar was served

MOUNTRAIL COUNTY • Oct. 30Mountrail County fair building• Mark Nesheim was re-elected

as county president and Lenin Dibble as a director

• discussed infrastructure issues in western North Dakota

NELSON COUNTY • Oct. 30Friends & Neighbors Cafe, Tolna• Ronald Dahlen was re-elected as

president and Matt Locken was also re-elected as vice president

• 24 resolutions that were submitted for state convention

OLIVER COUNTY • Oct. 22Golden Age Club, Center• Robert Schmidt was re-elected

as county president and David Porsborg was re-elected as county vice president

PEMBINA COUNTY • NOV.4Pembina Museum • Special guest Zelda Hartje

PIERCE COUNTY • Oct. 30Rugby Eagles Club• Jim Teigen was re-elected as

county president along with R Jay Paul as vice president; Tim Ostrem and Marshalle Fedje also elected to the county board.

• door prizes were donated by Farmers Union Insurance, Rugby

About the meetings...

Hettinger County Board of Directors, from left to right are: Dave Witte, Carol Herberholz, Randeen Schulz, Jan Ottmar, Curt Wax and Jim Kerzman.

LaMoure County Board of Directors include from back row, left to right: Josh Heinrich, Tim Moch, Nick Mathern, and Jason McKenney. Front row, left to right: Kevin Isakson, Ron Van Bruggen, Mariah McKenney and Lynn Haro.

Youth in McClean County held a car wash to raise funds to honor Mike Erdmann, who passed away in April 2012. Mike worked for Farmers Union Oil Company in Turtle Lake for 35 years. He drove the Cenex bulk truck and became a familiar face to the people on his route, especially the children. With the funds raised, youth had a bench built in his honor to be placed at the Farmers Union in Turtle Lake. Pictured in the front row from left to right is the Erdmann family: Mike and Aileen’s grandchildren: Trevor Krause, Erin Schwalk and Grant Krause. In back row, from left to right: Aileen Erdmann, Mike’s wife, and their daughters, Beth Krause and Lynn Schwalk.

Grant County Board of Directors, from left to right: Greg Scholes, Delwin Petrick, Kathy Hoff and Evelyn Alt. Not pictured is Jeff Striegel.


RAMSEY COUNTY • Oct. 23Knights of Columbus Hall, Devils Lake• Dale Enerson was the keynote

speaker. He spoke about the oil field boom and issues in the western part of the state including roads, surface and mineral rights and population inflation

• officers were re-elected including Adam Leiphon as president, Dwight Noltimier as vice president and Daniel Webster as director

RANSOM COUNTY • Nov. 5Dakota Plains Ag Building,Lisbon• Insurance agent Lance

Gulleson and the Lisbon Farmers Union Credit Union manager, Dan Wagner, spoke at the meeting.

• Dan was re-elected as president along with vice president and secretary; a director’s position remains open

• Harvest ND was discussed as one of their main events

RENVILLE COUNTY • Nov. 1The Club, Mohall• Lisa Brekhus was re-elected

as president, Steve Olson, Ron Jensen and Matt Undlin were re-elected to the county board

• each member and guest received a turkey for Thanksgiving as a thank you for attending the meeting

RICHLAND COUNTY • Oct. 21Immanuel Lutheran Church, Hankinson• Roderick Lentz was elected

as county president to replace Walter Hardie and Danielle Lentz was elected new director

ROLETTE COUNTY • Oct. 28Valle Lutheran Church, Rolette• Karl Solberg elected presidentSARGENT COUNTY • Oct. 21City Hall, Forman• Roger Zetocha was re-elected

as county president • local District 26 candidates for

the 2012 election were invited, including Jim Dotzenrod, Kathy Skroch, Jerry Kelsh, Bill Amerman, Bill Anderson, and

In McIntosh County, retiring board members were recognized for years of service. Pictured left to right: Herman Kauk, David Bollinger, Nancy Betsch, Perry Betsch, Kenny Meidinger and Terry Ulrich.

Ramsey County board members include, from left to right: Adam Leiphon, Terry Borstad Connie Hanson, Rudi Bloomquist, Evan Schoenfish and Daniel Webster.

Sheridan County’s annual meeting attendees included, left to right: Wes Niederman, NDFU state board member, Eden McLeod, county youth director, Douglas Erdmann, vice president, Jay Gahner, president and Brenda Dockter.

Sebastian Ertelt• members and candidates enjoyed

discussion with root beer ice cream floats

SHERIDAN COUNTY • Oct. 23Union Bar and Grill, McClusky• Douglas Erdmann president and

Brenda Dockter as secretarySIOUX COUNTY • Oct. 26Selfridge High School• Pat Becker was re-elected to the

board and all officers will remain the same

• Halloween party was held for about 30 youth and everyone attending was able to vote for their favorite costume

STARK COUNTY • Oct. 27Knights of Columbus Hall, Lefor• Dean Baar was re-elected as

president along with Deran Lefor, Marvin Lantz and Brian Scholz as directors

• prior to the meeting, members were invited to make strudel and kolache (see related story in this issue)

STEELE COUNTY • Oct. 21Community Center, Sharon• Randy Richards was re-elected

as president • county voted to sponsor a bus

trip for juniors and seniors to tour the capitol in Bismarck this winter; door prizes were awarded to Merll Strand, Perry Ostmo, Tom Klabo, Mary Kay Klabo and Bill Erbstoesser

STUTSMAN COUNTY • Nov. 1NDFU Conference Center, Jamestown• Mike Huebner was re-elected as

president and Owen Olson as vice-president

TOWNER COUNTY • Oct. 28Community Center, Egeland• Myron Jacobsen, president with

Dean Borstad as vice president• Laura Dease elected secretaryTRAILL COUNTY • Oct. 30Country Hearth, Hillsboro• Brittany McInnes was elected the

new president, Kyle Olson was re-elected vice-president, Kevin Kyllo was re-elected treasurer, Kipp Knudson was elected

secretary and Jacob Amb was elected to serve as a director

WALSH COUNTY • Nov. 3American Legion, Park River• Chris Byron and Lara Carlson

stepped down from office• president, vice president and

secretary were all re-elected • a young producers casino night

and a University of North Dakota hockey weekend are being planned for January

WARD COUNTY • Oct. 28Sleep Inn, Minot• No president; Judith Ness vice

presidentWELLS COUNTY • Oct. 20City Hall, Harvey• Patricia Patrie elected as

presidentWILLIAMS COUNTY • Oct. 24Ernie French Center, Williston• Door prize winners included

Keith Johnson, John Skogen, Travis Lee and Sharri Cvancara.


REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION BY DONAN FORENSIC ENGINEERING & FIRE INVESTIGATION BY JON SIVILS

In this age of high energy costs, the price of heating the house will increase. People will be searching for alternate sources to heat their houses. Some of the many ways people will stay warm this winter include wood-burning stoves, electric space heaters, kerosene heaters, fireplaces, and furnaces. Although acceptable, these methods are a major contributor to residential fires each year, many of which could have been prevented with proper planning. Adding insulation to your house can save energy, but you should have a qualified electrician check your house’s electrical system for deficiencies. When installing insulation, always make sure insulation is kept away from ceiling light fixtures and other heat sources.Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces

Experts do not recommend the purchase or installation of any

Prevent winter house fires

wood-burning stove unless it is air-tight and has controlled airflow. If you are burning a lot of wood, your stovepipe and chimney may have a heavy buildup of creosote, which can lead to a fire in your chimney and spread to the roof of your house. Fireplace chimneys should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year, and stovepipe chimneys should be checked once a month and cleaned as needed. Ensure proper installation.

Adequate clearance for wood stoves is at least 36 inches from combustible surfaces. Ensure you have adequate floor support and protection. Wood stoves should be of good quality, solid construction and design, and UL listed. Have a chimney inspected by a professional annually and cleaned if necessary, especially if it has not been used in some time.

Do not use flammable liquids to start or accelerate a fire in a fireplace or wood stove. Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace opening to prevent embers or sparks from escaping.

A wood-burning stove should be burned hot twice a day for 15 to 30 minutes to reduce the amount of creosote buildup. Don’t use excessive amounts of paper to build roaring fires in fireplaces or wood stoves. Overbuilding the fire could ignite creosote in the chimney.

Never burn charcoal indoors. Burning charcoal can give off lethal amounts of carbon monoxide.

Keep flammable materials away from your fireplace or wood stove mantel. A spark from the fireplace could easily ignite these materials.

Before you go to sleep, be sure your fire is out. Never close your damper with hot ashes in the fireplace or wood stove. A closed damper can help rekindle the fire, forcing toxic carbon monoxide into the house.

If synthetic logs are used, follow the directions on the package. Never break a synthetic log apart to quicken the fire, and never use more than one log at a time. They often burn unevenly,


releasing higher levels of carbon monoxide. Furnace

Your furnace should be inspected on a regular basis by a qualified professional to ensure it is good working condition. A malfunctioning furnace can produce carbon monoxide, a “silent killer” that can spread throughout your house. A furnace with an undetected gas leak can create a highly flammable and explosive environment. Change the unit’s filter once a month and have a qualified professional check the unit once a year. Install carbon monoxide detectors, following manufactures guidelines.

Be sure all furnace controls and emergency shutoffs are in proper working condition. Leave all furnace repairs to qualified specialists. Do not attempt repairs yourself unless you are qualified. Inspect the walls and ceiling near the furnace and along the chimney line. If the wall is hot or discolored, additional pipe insulation or clearance may be required.

Check the flue pipe and pipe seams. Ensure they are well supported and free of holes or cracks. Look for soot along or around seams, as this can indicate a leak.

Check the chimney to make sure it is solid; are there cracks or loose bricks? All unused flue openings should be sealed with solid masonry. Keep trash and other combustibles away from the heating system.

Kerosene heatersBe sure your heater is in good

working condition. Inspect exhaust parts for carbon buildup. Be sure the heater has an emergency shutoff in case it is tipped over. Never use fuel-burning appliances without proper room venting. Burning fuel (e.g., coal, kerosene, or propane) can produce deadly fumes.

Use only the fuel recommend-ed by the heater manufacturer. Never substitute gas or any other fuel into a unit not designed for that fuel.

Keep kerosene and other flammable liquids stored in approved metal containers in

well-ventilated areas outside the house.

Never fill the heater while it is operating or hot. When refueling an oil or kerosene unit, avoid overfilling. Do not use cold fuel because it may expand in the tank as it warms up, causing overflow.

Refueling should be done outside, never inside the house or garage.

Keep young children away from space heaters, especially when they are wearing nightgowns or other loose-fitting clothing that can be easily ignited.

When using a fuel-burning appliance in the bedroom, be sure there is proper ventilation to prevent a buildup of carbon monoxide. Never use space heaters to dry clothing. Keep all flammable objects at least 3 feet from space heaters.

Electric space heatersThe number of residential

fires always goes up during colder months, peaking between December and February. Portable space heaters substantially contribute to this increase. Before plugging in your space heater, make sure you know how to use it safely: • Carefully read the directions for

its use.• Never place a space heater

where a child or pet could accidentally knock it over.

• Never place a space heater too close to a bed, especially a child’s bed.

• Keep newspapers, magazines, and fabrics from curtains, clothes, or bedding away from space heaters.

• Heaters should be at least 3 feet from anything flammable.

• If you use an electric heater, be sure not to overload the circuit. Use only extension cords that have the necessary rating to carry the amperage load.

• Choose an extension cord the same size or larger than the appliance’s electrical cord.

• Avoid using electrical space heaters in bathrooms or other areas where they may come in contact with water.

• Never allow anything to cover the cord such as a rug; this can

produce a fire from the radiated heat.

Holiday Fire Hazards If you use a real Christmas

tree in your house, make sure to water it daily. Electric lights should never be hung on a dried-out tree. The potential for fire is drastically increased if the tree is dead and dry. All lights and lighted window ornaments should be inspected every year to ensure cords are not worn or frayed. All candles should be used with care. According to the NFPA, the number of fires started by candles nearly doubles during the month of December.

Smoke alarmsHaving working smoke alarms

in the house reduces the risk of dying in a fire by 50 percent. Check all smoke alarms in your house to ensure they are in working order.

Vacuum dust from existing smoke alarms.

Have an alarm on every level of your house, as well as one in each bedroom.

If your smoke alarm uses regular 9-volt batteries, remember to replace them two times a year. (It is a good idea to change the batteries when you change your clock in the spring and fall) Test your smoke alarms monthly, and be sure your children are familiar with the sound of the alarm. Almost 60 percent of all fatal residential fires occur in houses that don’t have smoke alarms, so this may be the single most important thing you can do to keep your family safe from fires. Because smoke rises, smoke alarms should always be placed on ceilings or high on walls.

If a smoke alarm near the kitchen goes off while you’re cooking, do not take the battery out of it - you may forget to replace it. Open the doors and windows instead.

If you’re having a new house built or remodeling an older house, you may also want to consider adding a house sprinkler system. These are already found in many apartment buildings and dormitories. s


Alaska Bound in 2013

Now is the time to book your adventure into Alaska with North Dakota Farmers Union.

Journey into the pristine waters of the Great Land with Princess Cruises, voted the “Best Cruise Line in Alaska” five consecutive years by readers of Travel Weekly.

From soaring snowcapped mountain peaks to magnificent glacier-rimmed fjords and colorful marine life, members can see it all on an Alaskan cruise with Princess. The cruise will offer dazzling glacier-viewing opportunities and visits to charming Alaska ports.

According to Jeff Willer, NDFU transportation coordinator, “This will be a trip of a lifetime. Let us do all the planning and take the worry out of your trip. This is a customized trip planned just for NDFU and it will be a great opportunity to see parts of Alaska that normally are not included in typical tours.”

Day 1: The tour begins in Anchorage, Alaska.

Day 2: Mat-Su Valley -Talkeetna See the Matanuska Colony; what began as an ambitious farming experiment put Alaska on the map and cultivated the Mat-Su Valley as Alaska’s agricultural heartland. Meet some of Alaska’s oldest residents at the Musk Ox Farm. Learn about how the underwool of these magnificent animals is woven into quiviut, a fiber that is

warmer than wool and finer than cashmere. Then, visit the Gray Owl Farm to see the perennial gardens and greenhouses. At the Colony House Museum, learn about the Matanuska Colony families and visit one of the original farm homes built by the pioneers. Due to an extraordinary growing season (19 hours of summer daylight), the giant size of some vegetables have become this area’s trademark. A visit to the Mat Valley Agricultural Showcase Garden, the most colorful spot in Palmer in summer, features some of these Alaska-sized flowers and vegetables on display. Experience a “farm-to-table” lunch featuring Alaska grown ingredients and tour Havemeister Dairy Farm. The Havemeisters own and operate one of the few remaining dairies in Southcentral Alaska. Later, travel to Talkeetna, a quaint town that serves as the jumping off point for Mt. McKinley climbing expeditions for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Denali National Park Enjoy a scenic motorcoach ride to Denali National Park.

Day 4: Denali Backcountry Adventure. This morning, set out for an exciting full day adventure, searching for the wildlife that call Denali home. Travel the entire 95-mile restricted Denali Park Road offering the most opportunities to view wildlife and experience the

stunning beauty of the park. Listen as a naturalist provides informative narration about your surroundings, and the natural history of the park. After lunch, try gold panning or take a guided nature trail walk before returning back to your Denali hotel.

Day 5: Whittier Enjoy some of Alaska’s most

spectacular scenery via deluxe motorcoach to Whittier where you will embark the ship, to begin a seven-night Princess cruise.aboard a fabulous floating resort.

Day 6 - 11 CruisingCruise past the mammoth

Hubbard Glacier, one of Alaska’s advancing glaciers. See amazing natural sights through Glacier Bay, a spectacular national park and preserve that is a treasure trove of tidewater glaciers and scenic coastal islands. See the Skagway and relive Alaska’s Gold Rush days in this “Gateway to the Klondike” and home of the famed Chilkoot Trail. See Juneau, the capitol city, and Ketchikan, known as the “Salmon Capitol of the World” and the “City of Totems.” largest collection of totem poles.

Day 12: Arrive in Vancouver, B.C.where the trip ends. s

Call NDFU for information at 800-366-8331 ext. 111

or Sue at ext. 108

NDFU plans an Alaska farm tourand cruise for Aug. 6 – 17, 2013


The North Dakota State University Carrington Research Extension Center will conduct its annual Crop Day on Dec. 4.

The emphasis this year will be on corn and soil management, according to Greg Endres, NDSU Extension Service area agronomist at the Carrington REC.

Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. There is no registration fee. Refreshments and a noon meal sponsored by the North Dakota Corn Council will be served.

The morning’s educational program begins at 9 a.m. Utilizing a combination of NDSU and industry crop experts, the educational session will provide details in five areas of corn production.

The final morning session will be on the use of variable-rate technology for planting and the nutritional needs of corn and other crops. Dave Franzen, NDSU Extension soils specialist, will discuss variable-rate strategies and the economics of it based on research data.

Starting at 1:15 p.m., the soils program will have two sessions. First, Franzen will discuss how salt-affected soils emerge and will make recommendations on management.

The second session will be devoted to the management of weeds, such as foxtail barley, cattails, curly dock and dandelions, in wet and salty soils.

Speakers include Mike Ostlie, research agronomist at the Carrington REC, and Endres. A total of four continuing education credits in crop, nutrient, pest, and soil and water management will be available for certified crop advisers participating in the event. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Carrington REC at (701) 652-2951. s

Crop Day Set for Dec. 4Upcoming cattle

workshopsTwo beef cattle workshops,

Beyond the Bunk and Beef College, combined this year to give producers a bigger program with more options.

This beef cattle workshop will be held Dec.19 at the Best Western Doublewood Inn in Bismarck. It is a collaborative effort of the North Dakota State University Animal Sciences Department, NDSU Extension Service and North Dakota Stockmen’s Association (NDSA).

Key industry spokesmen will offer insights into the state of the beef industry and how current research efforts can position North Dakota producers to adapt to a changing industry. The latest research on feed efficiency, vaccination programs and improving the feeding value of corn stover are among the topics at the event. A variety of topics will be covered including:

• challenges and opportunities in the beef industry: where we are and where we are headed

• what producers can do to meet industry challenges and

opportunities: what’s worth the worry and what’s not

• using quicklime to improve feeding value of low-quality feeds

• impact of gestational nutrition on calf development

• new discoveries in calf vaccination strategies

Registration starts at 9 a.m. and the program starts at 9:30.

A young producer panel will discuss the path to transitioning into their operation and their future plans, and offer advice for others trying to gain a foothold in the industry.The cost of the program is $30 if paid by Dec. 12 and will include lunch. The cost after that date is $40 and will not include lunch. s

To register online, go to http://www.ndsu.edu/cattledocs.

Remodeling Mandan OfficeRemodeling work is in full swing for the new satellite state office in Mandan. General Counsel and Director of Government Relations, Kristi Schlosser, will be primarily working from this location along with other insurance managers and NDFU staff. Kevin Ressler owns the building and has been working on the updates at 3801 Memorial Highway. The office is expected to be open in December.


Makes about 4 dozen 3-inch cookiesIngredients:2 1/4 cups bleached all-purposed flour1/4 teaspoon salt3/4 cup sugar12 tablespoons unsalted butter1 large egg1 tablespoon (finely grated) lemon zest1 teaspoon pure vanilla extractRoyal Icing

Directions:Soften the butter. In a mixing bowl, cream together

the sugar and butter until fluffy. Add the egg, lemon zest, and vanilla extract and beat until blended. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining dry ingredients. On low speed, gradually add them to the butter mixture and mix until incorporated. Add water, a few drops at a time, only until the dough starts to come away from the sides of the bowl.

Scrape the dough onto a sheet of plastic wrap and use the wrap, not your fingers, to press the dough together to form a thick flat disc. Wrap it well and refrigerate for 2 hours, no longer than 3. Preheat oven to 350 F.

‘Tis the season for holiday baking

Traditional Rolled Christmas Sugar Cookies

The holidays are a busy season. From cooking and baking for family and friends to holiday shopping and preparing for time-honored traditions, the season will pass in a blur. Regardless, it’s also the time of year when everyone has holiday cookies and extra-special meals on their minds. Here are some tips for baking this holiday season and a favorite iced sugar cookie recipe.• Prep the kitchen. Put away unnecessary items, clean off the counter or table top and make sure that all of the tools and ingredients are available to make for a smoother baking process.• Measurement is key. Unlike cooking, baking requires exact measurement. One important technique is the spoon-and-sweep method for measuring flour, which can settle. Scoop the flour into the measuring cup, ensure it is full andsweep off the excess with a knife.• Be patient. Allow the cookie sheets to cool completely before using for the next batch to avoid flat cookies.• Think through baking times. Looking for a slightly softer, chewier cookie? Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and reduce the baking time slightly.• Use high quality ingredients.

Royal IcingIngredients:3 large egg whites4 cups (1 pound) powdered sugarDirections:

In a large mixing bowl, place the egg whites and powdered sugar and beat, preferably with the whisk beater, at low speed, until the sugar is moistened. Beat at high speed until very glossy and stiff peaks form when the beater is lifted (5 to 7 minutes). The tips of the peaks should curve slightly. If necessary, more powdered sugar may be added. Keeps for 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough, covered with plastic wrap to prevent cracking, to a 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters.Transfer the cookies to cookie sheets with spatula. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes or until the cookies begin to brown around the edges. For even baking, rotate the cookie sheets from top to bottom and front to back halfway through the baking period. Cool on wire racks before decorating with Royal Icing, sprinkles and glittering holiday edibles. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.


It is hard to believe that 2012 will soon come to a close. With the election behind us, we are working diligently, pushing Congress to complete a five-year farm bill before the year ends and this legislative session closes.

How You Can Help Get the 2012 Farm Bill Passed

The 2012 farm bill was an important issue on the campaign trail this fall, and voters across rural America made it known that Congress has no excuse for not passing a new five-year farm bill. Lawmakers are back in Washington now, and it is critical that they take action this year. A short-term extension of the current farm bill, which expired on Sept. 30, would be an inadequate, shortsighted solution.

We need your help NOW! Call your Congressional representative and ask him or her to support the farm bill by:

• Asking House Speaker John Boehner and House Majority Leader Eric Cantor to commit publicly to passing a new five-year farm bill during the lame duck session.

• You can refer to the recent letter NFU coordinated and sent to all members of Congress, signed by 235 organizations representing every constituency affected by the farm bill, supporting a new five-year farm bill. The farm community is united in its call for action, and is joined by allies from all sectors of the economy.

More information can be found at www.NFU.org/farmbill.

To take action, call 202-224-3121 and ask to be transferred to your representative’s office.

Election ResultsThe recent election proved to

be fairly positive for many of the House and Senate races NFU was keeping its eye on across the country. The makeup of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees will remain somewhat similar when the new Congressional session opens in January. Only eight of the 46 House Ag Committee members lost their seats or retired, resulting in a 17.4 percent turnover rate on the committee. This is in contrast with 17 House Ag Committee members who lost their races or retired in 2010, resulting in a turnover rate of 37 percent – more than double. All Senate Ag Committee members who were up for reelection won their seats, although three members retired. House Ag Subcommittee chairs not returning:

· Rural Development, Research, Biotechnology and Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee Chair Tim Johnson, R-Ill. (retired)

· Nutrition and Horticulture Subcommittee Chair Jean Schmidt, R-Ohio (lost primary)

· Conservation, Energy and Forestry Ranking Member Tim Holden, D-Pa. (lost primary)

· Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Subcommittee Ranking Member Dennis Cardoza, D-Calif. (retired)

· General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Ranking Member Leonard Boswell, D-Iowa (lost general)

· Nutrition and Horticulture Subcommittee Ranking Member Joe Baca, D-Calif. (lost general)

Of Special Note Golden Triangle award

recipients of the past two years won with an 87.2 percent rate, and candidates endorsed by the National Farmers Union Political Action Committee (NATFARMPAC) had a 72.5 percent success rate.

Farmers Union Members Elected

It comes as no surprise that Farmers Union members are leaders in their communities. We are very proud that so many of our members campaigned and were elected to local, state and national offices in the recent election. We thank them for their willingness to serve in public office.

NAFB’s Trade TalkPresident Roger Johnson

attended the National Association of Farm Broadcasting’s annual Trade Talk event in mid-November, where he conducted more than 30 interviews with farm broadcasters. He discussed the results of the election, the pending farm bill, renewable energy policies and conservation. Listen for his interviews on your local radio stations!

Beginning FarmersThe second session of the

2012/2013 NFU Beginning Farmers Institute (BFI) was held Nov. 8 to 11 in Minnesota.

BFI is a national program that serves to develop and encourage agriculture leaders from all backgrounds while providing opportunities for beginning farmers to acquire leadership and farm management skills.

During this session, the new and transitioning farmers learned about legal issues, marketing, why cooperatives are important to beginning farmers, insurance, sustainable farms, local foods, and decision making. One day was spent touring farms and cooperatives in the Twin Cities area. Minnesota Farmers Union graciously provided the transportation. s


Farmers Union Insurance welcomed Santa Claus to town on Saturday, Nov. 24, as an event sponsor in conjunction with Make-A-Wish® North Dakota.

Santa’s visit was part of Macy’s nation-wide Believe campaign, benefiting Make-A-Wish®. Old St. Nick visited 26 cities in 26 days with Fargo as its first stop on the tour, coming directly from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Farmers Union Insurance sponsored a “Make-A-Wish® North Dakota” night at the Fargo Force hockey arena that featured Santa dropping the puck at the beginning of the game and a meet and greet event both before and after the game.

All Santa believers are now invited to drop off letters at any Macy’s store. For each letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish® Foundation, up to $1 million, to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. s

Santa Claus visits Fargo as part of Make-A-Wish

State and regional Tomorrow’s Ag Generation (TAG) members volunteered during the family fun night at the state convention at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks. Members enjoyed a night of casino card games, minute to win it contests, bouncy house games and the NDFU rock climbing wall. The group is part of the state and regional TAG teams across North Dakota that participate in activities for young producer throughout the year. Dave and Jen Teigen, Adam Leiphon, Kent and Alyson Myhre, Brad and Megan McKay, Valerie Ryberg, John Skogan, Eden McLeod, Scott Sinner, Judi Hintz, Ryan & Lisa Aufforth, Rhonda Lura, Brandon and Jamie Meidinger and Stacey Johnson.

TAG - you’re it in 2012


Arrowwood Prairie Co-op held their 7th annual meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 13 at the North Dakota State University Research Center in Carrington. The co-op had another record breaking year in sales and a financial audit was presented by John Martin.

Russel Rexin resigned his position from the board of directors. Joe Richter was elected to take his

place. Russel Rexin was awarded a Cenex gift card for his 30 plus years of service to the board.

Dennis Hafner announced his retirement. He has worked at the co-op since 2000. He was also recognized at the meeting for his years of service with the co-op.

A prime rib supper was served after the meeting. s Paul Klosterman giving Dennis Hafner a

watch as a gift for his years of service.

Arrowwood Co-op meets

North Dakota Farmers Union and the Red River Research Corridor will be sponsoring the second annual Precision Ag Summit this winter. The event is scheduled for Jan. 21 and 22 in Jamestown, at the North Dakota Farmers Union Conference Center.

The workshop will feature technical sessions and demonstrations to provide producers with insight and hands on exposure to topics that include spatial data management, variable rate applications, in-field sensors, mapping and others.

“This year’s Precision Ag Summit will expand on many of the themes of last year and incorporate a number of in depth demonstration sessions” explained Delore Zimmerman, executive director of the Red River Valley Research Corridor.

“We want to empower ag. producers in the region and provide them with the tools to successfully integrate precision agriculture into their operations. We are confident the content of this year’s technical sessions and quality of speakers

will not disappoint”Keynote speakers and session

panelists will be featured including industry experts, producers, practitioners and technology developers.

An exhibition area will feature demonstrations of products and techniques by industry leaders in telematics, precision applications, software, seed and other areas of the industry.

NDFU President Woody Barth

said, “North Dakota Farmers Union is pleased and honored to host the summit again. This is a great event that will feature excellent speakers and showcase the latest technology to help anyone following the rapidly changing world of precision agriculture. We are excited that precision agriculture is leading toward higher yields that will help farmers and ranchers produce food, fiber and feed for our nation with lower costs, more efficiencies, more sustainable livestock production, and more environmentally sound practices.”

Support for the summit is being provided by event co-organizers at the Dakota Precision Ag Center at Lake Region State College and North Dakota State University’s Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering. More information and event registration can be found at www.researchcorridor.com or by calling the Red River Valley Research Corridor Coordinating Center at (701) 499-6994. s

Precision Ag Summit plannedEvent to offer technology overview, demonstrations and technical sessions


“Our inspiration stems from our passion and love for children and horses.

We have witnessed the benefits that children with special needs achieve

with the assistance of equine therapy. We have a desire to give all children

the dream of riding and being free!”

“In riding a horse we borrow freedom” ~ Helen Thomson

Riding for Dreams ... “Dream it Anyway”


Damien Howey of Lisbon is a mother with many challenges. Her son, Addison, has special needs and their life is filled with doctors appointments, treatments and other therapy.

One place that has made a difference is the Riding For Dreams therapeutic learning program in Milnor.

“My son Addison is four years old and started lessons last year. It has really helped him and now he has toy horses at home and loves to come out to ride,” Howey said.

Riding for Dreams started in 2009 by co-founders Stacy Erdmann, Lonnie Rotenberger and Laurie Bischof. Erdmann explained, “Our inspiration

stems from our passion and love for children and horses. We have witnessed the benefits that children with special needs achieve with the assistance of equine therapy. We have a desire to give all children the dream of riding and being free.”

The organization taught over 15 students this summer. Each session has a five minute warm-up and stretching session, followed by a riding lesson using several different adaptive techniques.

Lessons run in six week sessions usually Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

Erdmann said, “We use different shapes and colors to teach. Kids will see a red cone and know that it means to stop. We’re not therapists but we are

therapeutic riding instructors and we need to be pretty creative to teach the lessons.”

Many of the families are dealing with an assortment of special needs such as autism, muscular dystrophy or other mental and physical challenges.

“The horses used in the program are very gentle,” Erdmann added. “We insist on safety and we always have spotters and volunteers helping out to ensure the safety of the kids.”

Some volunteers come out to be a side walker. Side walkers follow the rider during lessons to help give them moral and physical support. The horse handlers have an extensive equine background in general horse care, tack, and health.

Addison Schwab of Lisbon has fun during his riding lesson.


Meet the horses:

FrecklesA 30 year old pony of

America/ Appaloosa Cross Gelding who came from co-founder Stacy Erdmann, Freckles was riden in many 4-H events, parades, rodeos, oueen pagaents, trail rides and camp outs by Stacy and her sister. He is a stout little horse with alot of stamina left for his age.

DreamerThis 22 year old Quarter

Horse mare was donated to by Laurie Eisenbes in 2010. She was ridden by her daughter who out grew her and they knew she needed to go someone special. Thanks to them, children have a wonderful horse to ride.

PatPat is a 22 year old Quarter

Horse gelding who was donated by Emerson Wood. He had been a working horse for Emerson from roping and working calves to pullng a buggy. With all of Pat’s experience he has been a great addition to the program – a tall horse with a big big heart.

DocA 25 year old foundation

bred Quarter Horse, Doc came from the Badlands Trailride in Kildeer. He had been one of their favorite horses, but when the hills became to much for him they wanted to find a place he could go to and be appreciated as much as he was there. Doc is a big old teddy bear, and a wonderful edition to the program.

Mission Statement ~ Riding for Dreams was organized for the charitable and educational purposes of developing children and adults by incorporating horses into therapeutic and learning programs.

This barn is where classes

are held each week.

Fundraising has begun to build

a new facility to better serve the

families.

Horse volunteers will help tack up and prepare the horses for class.They may also lead the horses during lessons.

The personnel are trained, certified and very knowledgeable. According to Mary Johnson, a mother who has a son in the program, “They are very interested in each student rider’s life and what will help each student rider. You find yourself having a lot of fun and see so many good things happening for the kids, volunteers, and certified instructors all in one barn.”

Erdmann commented, “Each program is very individualized for each rider’s needs. We are excited to begin fundraising to expand our program. We want to serve more children in this area. We are non-profit and we need financial support. Check out our website at www.ridingfordreams.org for more information.”

Wish List: Bareback riding padsSaddle Pads, BlanketsSaddles, HaltersLead Ropes, ReinsSurcinglesMounting Block/Load RampClass/Lesson Supplies: Large Cones Mailbox Squirt Guns Books and Flash Cards Bean BagsFor the Horses: supplements Feed, salt blocks Hay large round or small


BY MEGAN BERGER, NDFU

A big part of many cultures is food. When you think of the Mexican culture, you typically think of spicy foods like tacos or enchiladas. Sushi is associated with the Japanese. The Norwegians brought us lutefisk and lefse. Strudel comes from the German/Hungarian culture and the Czech culture brought us kolache. Just as these foods are important to each culture, it is also important to pass down recipes and techniques of making these foods.

At the Stark County Convention, members had the opportunity to learn the art and tradition of strudel and kolache making through demonstrations by

30 years, she was the strudel chairman for the soup and strudel suppers in Gladstone, N.D. Over the years, she has also taught several adults and children how to make strudel. “I have done several strudel making classes with the home

economics class at the Dickinson High School. Kids from the New England High School came to my house to learn how to make strudel. It’s a lost art and it is important to pass this down,” says Willer.

Margaret doesn’t just teach people how to make strudel; it has turned into a small business for her. “I get several orders from local people. Some just buy a few

longtime Farmers Union members Margaret Willer and Mert Kuylen. Members were invited to watch and try their hand at the making of these tasty dishes prior to the annual meeting.

Margaret Willer has been making strudel for many years. She was taught by her mother at a young age and when she married, she began to make strudel for her husband and children. For nearly

Making strudel & kolache


for their families. Others use it as a fundraiser for school or church,” Willer commented. In recent years, she has had orders from as far away as Washington and Utah. “I don’t know how they find out about my strudel. One man from Provo, Utah placed two orders last year. Each time, the postage was over $50 but he didn’t care. He was so excited to receive it,” Willer shared.

So, what is the secret to Margaret’s yummy strudel? She shared with the Stark County Convention attendees that good flour and a polyester/cotton blend sheet to roll the strudel on is the key. “The flour keeps it from being too sticky or tearing in the middle. The polyester/cotton blend sheet to roll the strudel on keeps it from sticking to the table. I have tried regular cotton sheets, but the strudel sticks to these,” says Willer.

Similar to Margaret, Mert Kuylen learned how to make kolache from her mother and began making it for her husband and children when she married over 60 years ago. “When I was little, my mother would make kolache for us when we got home

from school, and I would do the same for my children. There was never a lack of rolls or kolache in our house. We pretty much lived on flour in those days!” says Kuylen.

Making the dough for the kolache is the hardest part. “It is a long and tedious process. First you mix the dough and work it. Then you let it rise, punch it down and let it rise again. All in all, it is about 3 hours or more before the dough is done,” Kuylen shares. “My recipe

for the dough always makes plenty, so I use part of it to make dinner rolls which are called ‘rolicky’ in Czech,” says Kuylen.

Once the dough is finished, the rest is simple. Cut off small pieces, pat them out flat, fill with your filling of choice, and bring the sides up to close in the filling. Mert shared with the group that poppy seed and apricot are the popular fillings in her family.

Mert has shared her love for cooking with her children and grandchildren. One of her children, North Dakota Farmers Union Vice-President Bob Kuylen, helped make the soup for the meal prior to the Stark County Convention. Homemade chicken noodle and borsch soup were served to attendees along with the rolicky, kolache, and strudel.

The strudel and kolache making demonstration was attended by 15 members of Stark County Farmers Union. All attendees were encouraged to jump in and try their hand at the process. They were also provided with recipes and got to taste the finished product at the end. s

Bob Kuylen stepped into the kitchen to participate in the cooking lesson.

BELOW: Members from Stark County had the opportunity to learn the art of making strudel and kolache from long-time members Margaret Willer and Mert Kuylen.


REPRINTED WITH PERMISSIONBY ANDREA WINKJER COLLIN, NORTH DAKOTA HORIZONS

Clear glass jars of colorful preserved fruits and vegetables line shelves that decorate the entrances of the Founding Farmers restaurants in Washington, D.C., and Potomac, Maryland. A frequent question of patrons is whether these canned goods are available for purchase. No, they are for display only, is the answer. But this curiosity illustrates how the design elements throughout these restaurants are increasing awareness of food production to a large urban audience.

The restaurants describe themselves as offering “fresh farm-to-table American-inspired true food and drink in a modern and eco-friendly setting.” And although they look like most urban restaurants from the outside, their décor, which their marketing manager describes as “modern farmhouse,” is undeniably unique.

The dining booths are shaped to resemble silos, and the tables use reclaimed barn wood and other natural woods with no tablecloths. Some light fixtures resemble clouds, while others are shaped like flocks of flying birds across the open beams in the ceiling.

The waiters wear jeans or casual pants and cotton shirts. The menus list more than 20 “farmers, producers and friends” who grow the “quality products that serve our stomachs … and our world.” This list includes the North Dakota Mills in Grand Forks and Thompson Apiaries of New Rockford.

The restaurants are an innovative approach to agriculture education, the brainchild of the North Dakota Farmers Union, the state’s largest general farm organization. The idea behind this, says its president, Elwood “Woody” Barth, is to connect consumers to farms. “People need to know where their food comes from and that family farms and ranches are the best sources of a sustained, safe and dependable food supply in the nation. This is a new way to bring that concept home,” says Barth, a fulltime farmer who raises cattle and corn near the Morton County town of Solen.

Prior to becoming president in November of last year, Barth was on the Farmers Union steering committee for developing the restaurant concept, which began around 2002.

“Our first thought was to have a restaurant in Jamestown, home of the Farmers Union state headquarters,” says Barth. “After further discussion this idea evolved into having something closer to more consumers.”

The Washington, D.C., area was chosen for the location of the first restaurant, because of its stable economic base in the early 2000s. Financing for the venture was raised through an equity drive of state members and the Farmers Union itself. It has 190 investors, and is set up as a cooperative, which pays dividends when there is a profit. The North Dakota Farmers Union board of directors is the governing board of the restaurants.

The first restaurant to open in 2006 was called Agraria, located in Washington’s Georgetown area on K Street Northwest. The second restaurant opened two years later in the Foggy Bottom section of downtown Washington, at 1924 Pennsylvania Avenue, three blocks from the White House and inside the building that houses the International Monetary Fund. In the spring of 2011 Agraria, which had been renamed Farmers and Fishers, was closed after flooding on the Potomac River heavily damaged its building. It is opening in November as a new restaurant with the name of Farmers Fishers Bakers.

The third restaurant in Potomac, Maryland, is a franchise that opened last November at Park Potomac Avenue, off I-270 at Montrose Road. “Our first priority was for the restaurants to be profitable,” Barth says, “and the downtown location was in the black after the first year. We have everything in place to continue to be profitable.”

Barth says a dividend has already been paid to investors, and the board is open to more franchising, both in the D.C. area and other parts of the country. The profit the North Dakota Farmers Union makes on the restaurants goes back into its efforts to promote agriculture and family farms, he adds.

Among the most popular in the metropolitan area, since January 2011 they have been the most-booked restaurants on the www.OpenTable.com website.

North Dakota farmers cultivate agriculture awareness – ONE MEAL AT A TIME!

FOUNDING FARMERS RESTAURANTS


‘True Food and Drink’Once the decision was made

to locate in Washington, Barth says the steering committee knew it would need the help of a restaurant management firm to turn its ideas into reality. It partnered with the national Vucurevich Simons Advisory Group (VSAG) to open the second restaurant, and it now manages all of them.

“Partnering with VSAG was a good decision,” says Barth. “It has brought us to where we are today. We are in nearly daily contact with the manager and we receive weekly reports for the board.”

Jennifer Motruk Loy, director of marketing VSAG’s Washington office, says the Founding Farmers restaurants operate on a triple-line approach of being sustainable, ecological and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified.

The restaurants define sustainable agriculture as “a way of raising food that is healthy for consumers and animals, does not harm the environment, is humane for workers, respects animals, provides a fair wage to the farmers, and supports and enhances rural communities.”

The downtown location was the first upscale full-service restaurant in the city to be LEED certified and the first in the United States to reach gold, the third of four certification levels. The Potomac restaurant is also nearing certification, she says, and it is completely wind-powered.

“In a traditional restaurant the chef orders from a distributor and doesn’t necessarily know where the food comes from. Our goal is to buy from family farmers whenever possible,” she says. “Our manager of procurement works with producers directly, including vegetable cooperatives, local fish suppliers and other sustainable

farmers. The fresh food sources are from no more than 500 miles away, and we don’t freeze anything – except our homemade ice cream.”

Two blocks from the downtown restaurant, 12 beehives monitored by George Washington University apiary students produced more than 16 gallons of honey this year. The Potomac restaurant has an outside herb garden that the chefs frequently harvest for the dishes and garnishing.

All the food is made in-house, when possible. Along with the ice cream, this includes breads, pastries, dressings, pastas, desserts and juices. The bars are stocked with whiskey distilled in-house, wines from organic producers and spirits from smaller distillers that are

organic or sustainable. Motruk Loy says no other area

restaurant is more committed to environmentally friendly practices. “We use recycled and renewable materials, including fabrics made of post-recycled fiber. We don’t use water bottled in plastic, instead we filter our own through an in-house system and serve it in glass pitchers. We also keep paper use to a minimum and recycle and compost our waste materials.”

On an average day, the downtown restaurant serves 1,200 people and takes one bag of trash to the landfill. “Some of these efforts have an upfront cost,” Motruk Loy acknowledges, “but they pay off in the long-term.”

A very pleasant surprise to her about managing these restaurants, says Motruk Loy, is that the

downtown site would become the top destination for dining in D.C. “The restaurant is busy. We are breaking sales records. We do not pay for advertising, so much of the popularity is from word of mouth and social media.”

Because business people from many countries have meetings at the IMF, the restaurant caters to an international clientele. “Many guests have their body clocks set to different times zones, so during our hours of 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. or later, people are coming in for any combination of breakfast, lunch or dinner meals,” says Motruk Loy.

The restaurants participate in local fundraisers and festivals, and celebrities have been known to stop by the downtown restaurant,

Motruk Loy says. “CNN has filmed here, Martha Stewart has visited, and the Food Network’s ‘The Best Thing I Ever Ate’ program has featured our deviled eggs.” And, in a nod to the franchise, “Bones,” the Fox Network television crime drama that is based in D.C., has put its characters in a restaurant named “Founding Fathers” that bears a striking

resemblance to Founding Farmers. Motruk Loy says a new project

that is just getting underway is the production of a Founding Farmers cookbook, which is expected to be published next fall.

Barth visits the restaurants three or four times a year when business brings him to Washington.

What has pleased him most about the success of this novel venture is that “consumers truly want to know more about family farms and ranches and where food comes from. Every farmer benefits from these restaurants in Washington. They are telling a very positive story about family farms and agriculture to everyone dining in the restaurants,” says Barth. s


CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

FARM EQUIPMENT

FOR SALEUsed set of tractor chains, 24” wide x 10’ long, fits 11-2-28 tire or next larger, $200. 663-5978, G.H. Schaner, Mandan.FOR SALE1925 McCormick-Deering 15:30 tractor, having extras with rubber tires. 663-7973 leave message, Chris Heim, Mandan.FOR SALEJD 8450 tractor with Quad Shift, 6,500 hours, always shedded; JD 30’ 9350 drills, rock guard, transports, markers, track whackers. 220-0993 or 223-0948, Jeff Spitzer, Wilton. FOR SALEMelroe 502 chisel plow, 22’ NH3 manifold, hitch and harrow, excellent condition; Feterl 7”x45’ auger, double flighting, pto.; 6 - 12’ sections barn door track; IHC Model 80 snowblower with hyd. cyl.; steel water tank; 42 round bales prairie hay, 190 wheat straw bales, baled with JD 535 baler. 845-1962, Ron Winkler, Oriska.FOR SALENice 53’ trailer w/rollup door and flat aluminum floor; 48’ water trailers; spray parts; semi storage trailers; new 36’ hopper bottom trailer; containers, chassis and converter dolly. 474-5780, www.rydelltrailers,com, Richard Rydell, Fairmount.FOR SALERowe 3 pt. sickle mower, 9’, brand new, $6,500; CIH 721 p.t. swather, 21’, $2,500; Moridge dryer, 400 bu., small screen, $600; 12” pto. water pump, $3,900; Kirshman 100 spra-coupe, 130 gal. tank, $500. 283-5178, Marc Greening, Wales.FOR SALEKwik Kleen Model 772 grain cleaner, 7 tube screens, cleans up to 3,500 bph., less than half the price of new. 370-0078, Dennis Karsky, Langdon.FOR SALETwo Farmall M tractors: 1 wide front with a 325 DuAl loader with hay grapple, live hyd., cast iron wheel wts., snow chains, $1,775; 1 wide front older style, $1,225, both tractors run and have decent tires, wil consider selling loader or snow chains separate, tractors are located o a farm north of Goodrich and can be seen by appt. 465-3295, Kevin Horneman, Anamoose.FOR SALE60’ Gates harrow, $14,000. 871-0302, Paul Solberg, Bottineau.FOR SALE215 Melroe spra-coupe, fair condition, foam marker, electric boom lift. 824-2156, Jim Kerzman, Mott.

Classified ad space is free and available to NDFU members. Ads will run one time only.

Ads must be mailed, emailed or faxed. NO ADS WILL BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. Include

your name, address & phone number and mail to:

NDFU ClassifiedsPO Box 2136 • Jamestown ND 58402-2136

email: [email protected] Fax: 701-252-6584 • 701-952-0102Deadline is the 15th of every month.

Contact us to repeat your ad.

FOR SALECockshutt 30 tractor, needs overhaul and tires. 430-0506, Duane Lyng, Clifford.FOR SALEIHC 50T baler; Schulte RS hyd. rock picker; F10 Farmhand w/weigh all Snoco bale loader; h.d. Russell Reliance 10’ grader; 10’ h.d. V packer; 5 bottom packer w/hitch; 8 steel grain bins w/steel floor, 1,000-12,400 bu.; 6’ JD combine w/2 cyl. motor & ground driven reel; new & used 10:00x20 truck tires; IHC 2 row hyd. cult. for H or M; Peterson dual rims, 18.4-34 to 232.1-30; Letz 163 burr mill; 11’ wide push-all hay basket for DuaAll loader; push-off hay basket or DuAl loader. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley.FOR SALEMacDon 972 Harvest header, 30’ draper head with finger reel, transport wheels, adaptor for Case/IH combines, fits 1400, 1600, 66 & 88 series, new guards, sickle & canvas’s, mint, like new condition! Not used for the last 4 yrs. and always stored inside! Bourgault 40’ Commander cultivator, 7/8” x 2” shanks, 8” spacing, double spring 330# trip assembly, new tires & wheel bearings, three bar harrows, knock on sweeps with a new set to go with, all in great condition; Brittonya 90’ pull type sprayer, trailing boom with gauge wheels, 1,000 gal. tank, mixing cone, foam marker, auto fold from tractor with adjustable rate contro, stainless steel wet booms with triplet nozzle bodies, good condition; Western 70’ four bar harrow, down pressure springs on sections, new cables, great condition; Case /IH 800 Cyclo planter, 8-row trailing (not 3 pt.) with markers, extra drums and lots of new parts to go with, good condition. 228-4656, Paul K. Berge, Souris.FOR SALEIHC 656 Hydro diesel, 3 pt. w/Farmhand, 233 loader; 2008 Hiniker windrowing stalk chopper, only 400 acres use; new Koyker 545 loader, 8’ Quick Tach bucket w/4 tine grapple, mounts available; like new Koyker 645 loader, 9’ Quick Tach bucket w/5 tine grapple, joy stick, JD mfwd mounts. 709-0103, Allen Wald, Edgeley.FOR SALE930 Case tractor with easy-on loader; reversed W-9 IHC with F-11 loader, both have grapple forks, $3,000 ea.; Case rough terrain fork lift; 35.5x32 tire on John Deere combine wheel. 883-5884, Milton Ostby, LaMoure.FOR SALEIHC #80 snow blower with hyd. cyl.; 502 Melroe chisel plow, 22’, anhydrous, hitch and harrow, excellent condition; Fetral auger, 7”x45’, pto, excellent condition; 6 - 12’ sections, barn door track. 845-1962, Ron Winkler, Oriska.FOR SALE2520 JD row crop, gas, syncro, Serial No. 020646R, 3 pt., 3 hyds., has a complete restoration; 48 JD quick attach loader with mounts for it, 60 hp. at pto., best offer takes it. 873-2153 or 891-8245, Steve Garrison, Beulah.FOR SALE10 ton dual compartment fertilizer tender, roll tarp, hyd. drive, and hyd lift boom, $2,000; Melroe 903 plow, 7-18, excellent shape, $1,400. 789-0966, Allen Gruman, Cooperstown.FOR SALEFair snow blower, 36” twin fans, 6’ extensions, hyd. spouts, 540 pto., $4,000. 286-7345, Marc Sundquist, Baldwin.

FOR SALEIH A Farmall w/Woods mower, ready to mow, 60” triple blade mowing deck w/left/right discharge, spare blades, 2 whl. drive, gas, major engine overall early summer 2012, new lower distributer, new fan assembly, new brakes, modified radiator and added overflow, new batter, fence line deflectors on mower deck, near new tires, lots of power, $5,575 firm. Can email pictures of both. 763-6184, Paul Heer, Jamestown.FOR SALE270 large round bales: CRP hay $40/bale in Cando area. Call Ken at 701-799-4866.FOR SALEHesston 1014, hydro-swing hay conditioner. Recent repair work at John Deer shop. Call Jon Heller, at 875-4278.FOR SALE200 hp. 2590 Case tractor, 3 pt. and duals, size 20.8x38, 5,531 hrs., cab, 1,000 pto., Ser. #10336954, $15,000 obo. 438-2157 or 351-3698, Dean Hagen, Maddock.FOR SALENew MDS attachments: 2 MDS rock badgers, Bobtach mounts (heavy duty, used to dig out and carry large rocks); 7’ & 8’ MDS buckets, universal Euro mounts; 7’ MDS bucket, Bobtach mount; 7’ MDS tined bucket w/5 tine double cyl. grapple (heavy duty for rocks, brush, trees, scrap, etc.) w/Bobtach mounts; 8’ MDS buckets and grapples for JD 148-158 and 740 classic tach and others; new 7’ JD bucket w/Euro mount; new 5’ JD bucket for 400-500 Series JD loaders; new 7’ Koyker Quick Tach bucket; new 7’ Bobcat bucket, 4 used Bobcat buckets, 55” to 80”; used 8’ bucket for JD 280 loader; new 8’ black Farmhand bucket w/4 tine grapple; 2 - 8’ Farmhand buckets; 10’ hi-capacity snow bucket for JD 158 loader; Farmhand F10 loader w/9’ bucket; 4 tine grapple; F11 loader & loader parts. 709-0103, Allen Wald, Edgeley.FOR SALETwo-wheel trailer used for District 5 float. Approximately 7’x12’. Best offer accepted. Call Wes at 701-522-3226.FOR SALE4 new 20.8x38 Titan bias tires; 2 new 520/85R42 (20.8R42) Michelin Agri Bibs; 2 new 520/85R42 Firestones; 2 new 16.9x38 Goodyear, 8 ply; 1 new 18.4R34 Verstorque 10 ply Goodyear, for bi-directional;4 - 420/85R34 Titan 10 ply FWDs @ 80%;4 - 380/85R34 GY @ 75%; 23.1R30 Titan 12 ply @ 70%; 23.1x30 FS, 8 ply @ 95%; 8 - 20.8R42 @ 50%;4 - 480/80R42 Titan combine tires @ 85% (rated 11,700 lbs./tire); 2 - 20.8x38 GY-OT 710s @ 50%; new Titan skid steer, 10-16.5x8 ply; 12 - 16.5x10 ply; 14 - 17.5x14 ply; 2 new 15.5x38; 2 - 12.4x38 @ 50%; 2 - 16.9x28xx10 ply @ 65%; new GY-DT 710-20.8R42; many others, rims, bands, hubs, hardware. 709-0103, Allen Wald, Edgeley.FOR SALEIH 800 Cyclo planter 6 row 30”, late model with cast shoe, recent new disc, good firming points, has liquid fertilizer with Demco squeeze pump, this planter will notill into sod or CRP, corn and sunflower drums, very good condition; next to new Dutch Universal openers for c shank air drill, have 3” carbide spread tips, came off Flexicoil 5000 33’ airdrill. 884-2446, Terry Strobel, Denhoff.



VEHICLESMISCELLANEOUSFOR SALE

1979 Ford Chateau Van, good condition,, V8, auto., air. 435-2521, John Backer, Courtenay.FOR SALE1983 Plymouth Grand Fury, 69,250 actual mi., exceptionally clean, excellent cond., parade ready. 349-4736 or 535-0795, Carl Lee, Ellendale.FOR SALE1963 Nova SS, H.T., 327 engine, GM 4 spd. tranny, $3,500; 1963 Nova SS convertible, $3,500. 663-8358, Ron Frank, Mandan.FOR SALE2000 Ram, 5.9L, power seats, tilt and cruise, Cummings quad cab, 6 spd. trans., 4x4, has 4” exhaust for turbo back, straight pipe, 212,000 mi., $15,000 obo. 570-4660 or 528-4766, Rockey Hewson, Alamo.\FOR SALE2007 Kawasaki Trans 4x4, full cab with glass windows, electric windshield wiper, cab heater, front winch and snow blade, oversize tires and wheels for better ground clearance, extra heavy duty suspension, tilt bed aluminum trailer, $8,500 for all. 725-4344, Clayton VanVleet, Burlington.

FOR SALESet of 4 Cooper M+S 255/70R17 tires off 2005 Ford F150 pickup, approx. 2,500 mi. on tires, near new condition, also one new spare on rim, never on road, same size, all 5 tires plus rim, $395. 448-2257, Herb Fueller, Turtle Lake.FOR SALE2 - 225/16 snow tires, w/studs, 80% tread, $100; 1 front mount snowblower for 210 JD mower, 36”, $125. 845-9993, Marvin Nelson, Valley City.FOR SALEJust in time for Christmas! The Ost family has released a new CD titled “The Unbroken Circle” full of country gospel music. 873-5695, Linda Eslinger, Beulah.FOR SALETwo cream separators, electric #518 and a #S16 with crank, both with complete attachments. 597-3730, [email protected], Larry Nagel, Shields.FOR SALE50 spools of barb wire, all in good shape; also a new wire roller. 475-2858, Peter Glatt, Driscoll.

FOR SALEJohn Deere Vibra chisel/cultivator, sides fold up with 12’ in the middle and 3’ on each side, 18’ total width, good condition; New Holland bale wagon #1032, holds 70 bales, always stored inside, ready to use; New Holland Rolabar rake #258, with two front wheels, like new condition. 824-2084, Esther Kuehn, Mott.FOR SALEMisc. tractors, some run, some for parts or rebuild; several older farm trucks with hoist, most of them run, including 1968 600b Ford with steel box and hoist; numerous older tractors, cars and pickups (some collectors); cultivators, swathers and drills. 965-6297, Perry E. Rosenquist, Noonan.WANTED1980’s tractor, 135 hp. or more, loader, pto., hyd. hookups and hopefully 3 pt., price range $8,500 - $12,000, depends on condition, must be working tractor. 628-6949, Rose LaRocco, Stanley.WANTEDSeed meter rolls for Flexicoil 1720 or 2320 air cart, would like an extra fine or may consider fine or course too; need a plastic hopper for fill auger on 1720 cart. 884-2446, Terry Strobel, Denhoff.WANTEDWould the fellow from the Fargo area that had an old IHC pull-type combine please contact me again? I lost your name and number that you gave me over a year ago.974-3644, Loren Myran, Taylor.WANTEDIHC combines and balers from the 1930’2, 40’s and early 50’s, they don’t need to be usable just mostly complete for public display purposes. 974-3644, Loren Myran, Taylor.WANTEDSnow bucket for a F-11 Farmhand loader, in good condition. 348-3328, Ervin Emter, Glen Ullin.

FOR SALE2005 Chevy Impala, LS sport package, silver,, loaded, leather heated seats, sunroof, one owner, exceptionally clean, 58,000 mi., 3.8 engine, traction control, premium sound system, must see to appreciate. 374-7851, Gary Hoffman, Ashley.FOR SALE1988 Ford Escort LX, automatic, 4 cyl., 4 door, 86 to 87,000 mi., cruise control, air cond., good am/fm radio, blue exterior and interior, owned by non-smoker, no pets and used Cenex super unleaded gas and Cenex oils exclusively. 537-5129, Orlin Oium, Towner.FOR SALE1981 Buick Century, auto on floor, bucket seats, air, factory installed V-8 4.3 liter motor, mint condition; 1951 straight eight Buick. 597-3730, [email protected], Larry Nagel, Shields.FOR SALE1945 Chevy truck, box and hoist, runs and drives good; 3 -1951 Chev. trucks, non runners (parts). 789-0966, Allen Gruman, Cooperstown.FOR SALE1997 Chevy 1/2 ton Silverado, extended wheel base with 10’x7’ flat bed, inflatable air overloads, wired for trailer pulling and trailer brakes, heavy duty tires, new transmission with heavy duty upgrade installed, very good condition. We used it for pulling our little camper and to haul our Arctic Cat side by side UTV. $5,500. 302-0037, Roger Westby, New Rockford.FOR SALE1 1/2 ton Chevy truck 50’ model with 235 engine, motor runs good, 4 spd. trans., fairly good 750-20 tires, no box, has drill fill hook up on it, $275. 870-0959, Marvin Ballensky, Stanton.FOR SALE1963 GMC truck, 1 1/2 ton with 13’ Knapheide box, hoist and stock rack, 65,000 mi., very good condition, always stored inside. 824-2084, Esther Kuehn, Mott

FOR SALE2 - 1,000 gal. fuel tank with Gasboy pumps; 1980 Volvo semi truck, single axle; Winnebago Custom, 29’, loaded, 69,200 act. mi., powered by 440 Dodge with auto. trans.; large round bales of mixed grass hay (NOT CRP). 430-3423, La Verne Koenig, Blanchard. FOR SALEHorse collars & related items; 45 used utility poles, 35-50’ long; new tires: 1-10:00 R20 Dunlap steel radial SP777, 16 ply, new tube & flap; 8 used sidewinder LT 245/75/15, 10 ply; 4-225/60/R16 M & S; 4 used Firestone P265/70/R16 M&S; 3 Michelin P225/60/R16 M&S. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley.FOR SALECargo carrier, ramps, both are heavy duty steel; boat anchor; drywall stilts; wetsuit, size M; pool stick; HD duffel bag; wire recorder; wedding dress, size 8; bark control collar; Fargo by artist Larry Wamble; Men’s black leather trench coat, R42; Men’s large brown leather coat. 429-8390, Monica Fedora, Fargo.FOR SALE1973 Polaris snowmobile, Colt SS 295 Twin, good track and skags under skis, $1,200 obo; Red Wing, MN 12 crock, Union Stoneware Co., Pat. Dec. 1915, $100 obo. 663-8358, Ron Frank, Mandan.FOR SALEDR wood chipper, 16.5 h.p., used very little; paid $3,200, will sell for $2,500; will chip up to 5” tree. 663-9061 or 214-1154, Arnold Wagy, Mandan.FOR SALEGear box drive from Westfield auger, secondary drive for jump auger w/reverser, $400; 35 ton Reiten hyd. press w/many dies, $5,000; garbage compactor for 1 ton truck, 5 yds.; 93-97 Dodge Intrepid, $125 each; 4 wheels for 2007 Jeep Liberty, 255-75R16; Austin Western front axle w/tires and wheels from road grader; overhead hoist, I beam const., 12’ high x 12’ wide, with chain hoist, on 4 rollers; 8’ long fully enclosed, vertical rear doors, side compartments, bolts on top of 8’ pickup box, all steel construction, $1,200. 789-0966, Allen Gruman, Cooperstown.FOR SALE7 1/2 x 13 wood truck box, very nice shape, always shedded, sells with Schwartz hoist and trailer to pull it home with, great for a truck restoration project, $500; running SD 240 engine for an IHC truck. 218-779-2274, James Tangen, Northwood.FOR SALEBlacksmith coal, I bought a truck olad of bituminous Blacksmith coal, it comes in 50 lb. bags @ $25/bag or $900 per ton. 438-2157 or 351-3698, Dean Hagen, Maddock.FOR SALE7’x16’ overhead steel insulated garage door with two new Torson springs, with garage door opener and 2 remotes, all in good condition, $375; new 50 gal. Reliance electric hot water heater, $250. 745-3258, Marvin Ballensky, Stanton.FOR SALEKnight Little Auggie and mixer wagon w/new bottom and augers; extension on JD unloading auger for 8’ 1860 air drill; one Titan Goodyear 18-4R-38 /50% tread; 4 shallow well pumps. 683-4809, Phil Mc-Daniel, Englevale.


NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION EXCURSION TOURS!

Hawaiian Adventure Jan 24 - Feb 2, 2013

3 Islands – Oahu, Kauai, & Maui

10 days, 13 meals, land & air inclusive

with optional 2 night Big Island Post Tour extension

Massachusetts Experience Feb. 23 – Mar. 8, 2013

Enjoy 4 days of top-notch speakers at the NFU Convention. Experience the sights and sounds of Springfield. Visit Boston, Cape Cod, Plymouth, Maple

Syrup Farm, Yankee Candle Company, plus much more.

2013 Mystery Tours #1 April 29 – May 2 #2 May 13 – 16 #3 May 20 – 23

Go to www.ndfu.org for more details and upcoming county tours

or call 800-366-8331ext 108, Susan or ext 111, Jeff

?? ?

ONLY 5 SEATS

AVAILABLE!

WANTEDPrairie dog hunters to come & hunt on my land, make reservations. 597-3730, email: [email protected], Larry Nagel, Shields. WANTEDOne or two 11.2x38 tires. 745-3258, Marvin Ballensky, Stanton.WANTEDOld: metal advertising signs, gas pumps, metal oil cans, advertising clocks or thermometers; old road signs, traps, knives, shell boxes, guns, pop or medicine bottles, highway road signs, 1 lb. coffee tin cans, ND pottery, carnival glass; ND books - 50 yrs. in the saddle. 258-0420 or 220-5746, Val Ganje, Bismarck.

FOR SALEMuscovey ducks, we have white, black and white and brown and white, $3 a piece obo. 627-3705, Duane Marmon, New Town.FOR SALE9 bred heifers (5 RW & 4 Red), bred to a low birth weight Registered Red ANgus Packer bull, due to start calving March 25th, bull turned out on June 8th, will feed to December 1, will be preged, poured and have 1st scour guard shot, $1,700 ea. 391-6404, Pat Roehrich, Washburn. FOR SALEBlack Angus beef, ready for slaughter. 468-5450, Vernon Thompson, Carpio.

LIVESTOCK & FEED

FOR SALEReg. Percheron, 2 black coming 2 yr. old fillies; 2 black 2012 fillies, choice, $1,000 ea. 226-3412, LaVern Frankfurth, Bismarck. FOR SALE42 bales, prairie hay, wheat straw bales, all poly. tied. 845-1962, Ron Winkler, Oriska.WANTEDGoats. 430-3423, La Verne Koenig, Blanchard. WANTED3 - 4 Suffolk ewe sheep and 1 Suffolk ram. 627-3705, Duane Marmon, New Town.

FOR SALEOlder 2 story home in Dawson, ND, 3 bdrm., 2 bath, kitchen remodeled 2012, 2 yr. old gas furnace, steel siding and metal roof, unattached 2 stall garage w/tin roof, has own well, city sewer and garbage, water softener, 3 out buildings on 13 lots, 1/2 city block. 595-1485, Jon Madcke, Edgeley.


LAMOURE – December 7 • Gladstone Local Christmas party Zimmerman home • 6 p.m. • progressive whist

MORTON – January 3 – Board meeting • Cenex board room, Bismarck 5:30 p.m.

RICHLAND – January 13 • Fairmount Local membership meeting 2 p.m. • Fairmount Fire Dist. Hall • convention reports & business

WARD – January 7 • Board meeting Minot Pizza Ranch • 6:30 p.m.

WELLS – January 6, tent. • Valhalla Local Christmas party and meeting2 p.m. • Hagen farm • potluck supper & gift exchange

County Events

REAL ESTATE


I find it hard to believe that a year has passed since I was first handed the president’s gavel but I have been humbled and honored to serve as the president of this great organization… and I wouldn’t trade a single second of this past year.

As an organization, we’ve experienced a lot of change. There have been internal changes that come with a transition in leadership, including staff changes and a new general manager of our mutual insurance company. We’ve achieved a long-term goal to establish a nitrogen fertilizer plant in North Dakota, and have expanded our Agraria restaurants. We’ve been challenged legislatively by the failure of Congress to pass a farm bill, and a rash of initiated statewide measures that have tested our policy positions and resources. We’ve also launched new programs that have exposed others to our organization, such as the Precision Ag conference, women’s WILD conference and oil field tours.

As in life, change is constant. Change requires forward thinking and a vision for the future. Vision is what North Dakota Farmers Union has always embodied. From our early beginnings when we fought to right the economic wrongs of the powerful grain trade to today’s reality of a nitrogen fertilizer plant. Each of us is a bridge to the future. We are the grassroots upon which our organization grows and embraces change.

Perhaps more than anything, North Dakota Farmers Union has been blessed by the leadership and vision of seven past presidents, boards of directors, and thousands of members. From where I stand, I am often reminded of the wisdom of past leaders and presidents. Like those leaders

in the days of President Glenn Talbott who formed our mutual insurance company in 1944 to meet the property insurance needs of members. Like those leaders in the days of President Ed Smith who reinvigorated the cooperative movement in North Dakota and our ties to local co-ops. Like our second president, Alex Lind, who stepped forward to lead the organization in a time of tragic loss. And I am especially grateful for the wisdom of President C.C. Talbott and early Farmers Union leaders who taught us how to fight for economic justice through cooperation, education and legislation. Each leader has added to our success today.

Through their leadership over the decades, each adding to

where we are today, our organization has built itself into a progressive voice for farm and ranch families. We often lead the change in agricultural policy and discussion. We champion fairness for all. We value good stewardship of natural resources. We think outside the box.

I want to thank you, the members, for the confidence you have bestowed on me this past year and for your continuing support. It

has been a year of much activity, accomplishment and change. Our vision and direction for the future is not something I will determine. It will be determined by all of us working to build upon the legacy of our past, using innovative ideas that have always served Farmers Union well.

I challenge each of you to follow the vision of North Dakota Farmers Union – a vision and mission that is larger than any one individual. In my office, I have these words framed from John F. Kennedy’s inaugural speech: “All this will not be finished in the first one hundred days. Nor will it be finished in the first one thousand days, nor in the life of this Administration, nor even perhaps in our lifetime on this planet. But let us begin.” s

Message fromthe PresidentBY NDFU PRESIDENT WOODY BARTH

PERIO

DIC

ALS – POSTAG

E PAID

1415 12th Ave SE PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402

Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division

december 2012 union farmer

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