Union Farmer - December 2016

FARMER UNION

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YOUR SUCCESSION

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UNION FARMER MAGAZINE Volume 63 • Number 12

F

The UNION FARMER is published monthly ARMER by North Dakota Farmers Union at 1415 12th Ave SE, Jamestown, ND 58401.

UNION

www.ndfu.org

GURU

EDITOR: Chris Aarhus 800-366-8331 ext. 118 caarhus@ndfu.org Annual subscription is $30 with membership.

Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, ND POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: NDFU • P.O. Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402-2136 Copies mailed this issue: 34,794 • USPS 016-211

GARDEN OF THE

AT 81, SUTTON'S RAHLF STILL PROVIDING A STRONG FARMERS MARKET

September 2016 – Volume 63 • Number 9

29377407 • 11-16 • URAC 5.9

FIND US ON THE WEB:

www.ndfu.org

http://issuu.com/ndfu

Read the Union Farmer online

CONNECT WITH US: North Dakota Farmers Union North Dakota Farmers Union Youth Program ND Farmers Union Tours

@NDFarmersUnion

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: President: Mark Watne • Vice President: Bob Kuylen • Secretary: Ellen Linderman Treasurer: Terry Borstad • Wes Niederman; Shane Sickler; Dennis Stromme; Jim Teigen and Ronda Throener 2

December 2016

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

NDFU CONTINUES TO FIGHT FOR AG

E

lections come and go, but the hard work of self-government in a democracy never ends. Most people think that Election Day ends their participation in the democratic process.

Really, it is only the beginning of the process. We now have the responsibility to hold our elected officials to the promises they made during the campaign, and we need to communicate our opinions to our representatives as part of that process.

Democracy is a great system of government. It gives the citizens of our country the opportunity to speak by voting for the candidate of their choice.

Elections draw our attention to opportunities and challenges we face as a nation. For many, it is a time to really focus on government and its effectiveness.

The members of North Dakota Farmers Union participate in democracy in many ways. Some directly contact elected officials; some take leadership roles; some volunteer; and some guide our organization through policy development.

The primary reason for a farm organization to exist is to advocate for its members. The member’s responsibility is to participate and ensure that the farm organization represents their interests.

North Dakota Farmers Union, through education, legislation and cooperation, works to support our membership.

North Dakota Farmers Union has a great process to ensure its policies and its advocacy work represents the members who participate.

Each member, each local, each cooperative, and each county can submit concepts and ideas to our

organization. Those ideas and concepts are voted on and adopted by the majority of the membership at our annual meeting. We encourage members to attend the convention in Bismarck on December 9-10 (see details at ndfu.org).

It is hard to prioritize our advocacy work, but we are working in a number of areas to enhance family farm and ranch agriculture. Farm and ranch income and farm programs are always a top priority. Cooperatives and cooperative education will always be important tools to help our members succeed. Legislatively, we work on fair trade, renewable fuels, common sense regulations, crop insurance, and tax policy. Our youth education program teaches citizenship and leadership skills, in addition to providing education on cooperatives. We are expanding our outreach to consumers, providing education on food production and the value of family farm and ranch agriculture. And we are part of a restaurant system that connects consumers to United States family farm produced food.

North Dakota Farmers Union participates in many value-added projects, as well. We support research both in the public and private sectors.

I believe your farm organization represents you well. It is your responsibility to ensure we fight for the policies you support. It is also your responsibility to carry our messages to elected officials.

I hope to see many of you at our state convention in December and look forward to visiting with each of you as we carry out the work of Farmers Union together. s

NEW NFU BENEFITS NOW AVAILABLE As medical costs continue to rise, the financial security of members is very important to National Farmers Union.

With that in mind, Farmers Union Service Association has negotiated individual products and services that support financial well-being and physical health of members.

NFU is making individual products and services available to members and encourages each of them to seriously consider the products and services available. Products available include supplemental benefits, vision and dental insurance, and Wellness Access Card with Teladoc services.

To learn more, go to www.mynisi.com/farmersunion or call Lance at 800-366-8331 ext. 143. s Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

December 2016

3

STATE CONVENTION DEC. 9-10 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10

8 a.m.

Registration opens

7 a.m.

Balloting opens

Youth activities begin

7:15 a.m. Registration opens

8:15 a.m. County officer mini-training sessions

8 a.m.

Convention reconvenes

10 a.m.

Convention convenes

Financial report

Pledge of Allegiance – SYAC

Member Question and Answer

National anthem – Acapella Agents

Policy and Action consideration

FUMIC annual meeting

10:45 a.m. Speaker: Alan Guebert, award-

• FUMIC Credentials Committee

winning agricultural journalist and

Report

author of The Farm and Food File

• FUMIC Bylaws Committee report

11:45 a.m. Consideration of NDFU bylaws

• Minutes of 2015 FUMIC meeting

• Financial and annual reports –

Noon Lunch

Mark Anderson

1 p.m.

Balloting closes

• President’s Report – Mark Watne

Camp songs/recap

11:30 a.m. District caucuses and lunch

SYAC presentations

1:15 p.m. Speaker: David Wasserman, U.S.

Complete Policy and Action discussion

House editor and quantitative

Final report of Credentials Committee

election analyst for

Elections Committee report

the Cook Political Report

Introduction of new board members

Collegiate Chapter Presentation

2:20 p.m. Nominations for candidates for NFU

4:30 p.m. Torchbearer Ceremony

Delegates, NDFU President, Vice

Speaker: Erin Hill-Oban, state senator

President and District Directors

Torchbearer Award Ceremony

2:40 p.m. Bylaws Committee preliminary report

Bergman Scholarship presentation

3 p.m.

6 p.m.

Members and Torchbearers

Policy and Action introduction and

debate

banquet

4:15 p.m. Breakout sessions

8 p.m.

5:30 p.m. Adjourn meeting

Social begins

6 p.m.

Evening festivities with buffet

Live and silent auctions

Deuces Wild! Dueling Pianos

NDFU, NDSC TEAMING UP ON SAFETY

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

North Dakota Farmers Union and the North Dakota Safety Council are entering into a partnership to better educate farmers and ranchers on injury prevention and emergencies.

NDSC will teach classes at NDFU’s convention Dec. 9-10 at the Bismarck Event Center, and NDFU members will have access to discounted safety items.

“Partnering with the NDSC Lynae will provide members with Hanson diverse learning opportunities that complement desires to grow in areas that concern safety in all aspects of life,” said Carla Edinger, education development supervisor for NDFU. “One of the exciting aspects of this partnership is that our members can take advantage of learning opportunities for all ages.”

Lynae Hanson, assistant executive director for NDSC, echoed those sentiments.

“We know that farmers and people who work in rural cities in North Dakota often work

in high-hazard industries,” she said. “They’re working alone in rural areas and help may not be close to them. We want to reach that group with education and training to prevent injuries and save their lives. We feel we have a lot of tools that can do that.”

NDSC teaches a variety of classes relevant to rural areas of North Dakota including First Aid and CPR, safe driving, ATV safety, grain bin entrapment and other courses relating to farm safety. Also, for those heading to college or to more urban areas, NDSC also offers self-defense classes.

“Our mission at the Safety Council has always been to reduce injuries and save lives,” Hanson said. “Our members have traditionally been in the industry of construction, manufacturing and utilities. The agriculture market is an audience of people we’re really interested in trying to reach.”

Products are also available including portable weather radios, Advanced External Defibrillators (AEDs), winter survival kits for cars and much more.

NDSC’s conference is Feb. 20-23 at the Bismarck Event Center. To learn more, go to ndsc.org. s

VISIT NDSC.ORG Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

December 2016

5

R

Spotlight

Ronda Throener

onda Throener is the NDFU director for District 7 and has held that position for three years. When asked why she ran for the board, Ronda said that she was looking for new leadership opportunities after she and her husband, Kevin, were selected to be the first FUE couple in 2007. Through their experience as the FUE couple and from attending WILD events, Ronda decided to run for the board in 2013 and won.

Ronda has experience with North Dakota Farmers Union from when she attended the camping program in her youth.

Her four children, Joseph, Isaiah, Olivia and James, also attend Farmers Union camp and EPIC events. In addition to being active members in NDFU, the Throeners are active in 4-H. Ronda was in 4-H when she was younger and her kids are following in her footsteps. Olivia is the secretary of her 4-H club and all of her children are stepping up to be leaders.

Ronda said that she is still

trying to figure out how to balance being a mom and working. “No day is similar, there is always something different happening, but I just keep a planner handy at all times,” she says, sharing words of wisdom for other working moms. She attends as many of her children’s activities as she can, and she and Kevin work to raise their children to be independent.

Ronda’s role on the NDFU Board of Directors has helped her children to grow their independence since she is not

Five questions with Ronda Who is the woman you most look up to?

My grandma, Helen. She was an awesome person, so supportive and encouraging of everything. A great role model.

What is something you used to do as a child that you wish you could still do?

Hang out with my dad every day.

If you could go back in time, once, and change a single thing – what would it be?

I don’t like to look back. I always try to keep looking forward. I don’t like to have regrets, but use them as learning for the future.

What is your spirit animal?

Cows, we have a love-hate relationship.

Where would you go if you could go on vacation?

Anywhere with sun and a beach.

always there due to traveling for her board requirements.

Remaining on the board is a family decision, however. When asking her children if she should run again, her youngest made the comment, “Mom, you have to. Who else is going to be an advocate for agriculture?” Ronda feels that by witnessing her work outside of the home, it will help her sons realize that their wives can have jobs outside the home someday too, helping to break gender roles in her family.

Ronda herself grew up on a farm/ranch near Balta, N.D. Now Kevin and Ronda run a farm and ranch near Cogswell.

In fact, Ronda says that her greatest achievement is starting a farm. Both Ronda and Kevin’s parents farmed, but neither of their parents were ready to leave the farm when Kevin and Ronda were starting out, so they started a farm themselves from the ground up. Ronda said that it’s not always easy to work so closely with her husband, but they have grown as a couple in the 21 years that they have been farming together. “It’s not always easy, but I love it.” she said. s

NEW C-STORE OPENS IN MOHALL DECISION TO WAIT PAYS BIG DIVIDENDS FOR CO-OP

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

When Farmers Union Oil Company of MohallSherwood took bids for a new convenience store in Mohall two years ago, the prices were far from favorable.

But with the slow-down of the oil boom a year later, construction costs dropped and made it far easier to pull the trigger.

“We really didn’t like the numbers, so we postponed it a year,” said General Manager Travis Halvorson. “We started the bid process again and saved a Travis substantial amount of money.”

Halvorson The new C-store officially opened Oct. 27, but a grand opening was held Nov. 7 –­ Veterans Day – with veterans eating lunch for free. A ribbon-cutting was held in the morning.

“We wanted at least two weeks to get our bugs worked out, and it’s gone off without a hitch,” Halvorson said.

Halvorson said the process started two years ago, when the board decided it would be more cost efficient to build a new building than re-do the old one.

The new building is right next door, where the town’s motel used to sit. The old building will become the co-op’s hardware store. The construction phase took only five months.

“It was actually shorter than we were thinking by three weeks,” Halvorson said. “What I’m very proud of is we were able to use 85 percent local Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Customers purchase items at the counter of the new C-store in Mohall. From start to finish, the construction phase took only five months, finishing three weeks ahead of schedule.

contractors. We kept that business in the area.”

The new store features Champs Chicken and Hot Stuff Pizza as well as “added freezer space, a free shower and improved fuel pumps.” s

Dec. 5-8 at 5-8 p.m., Registration is free at nfu.org

December 2016

7

County Conventions

A

nnual meetings 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. Many of the county meetings featured staff from the state office and state board members who shared information about the ongoing lawsuit over corporate farming. Not every county convention is listed as some were held later than others. The remaining conventions will be featured in the January issue of the Union Farmer.

ADAMS • Nov. 9 • EOC Room, Hettinger • Board members: DeJon Bakken, president Libby Gravning, vice president Connie Hourigan, sec./treas.

Bruce Hagen, Rhonda Knutson, Arlene Walch, directors Libby Gravning, EPIC coach • Libby Gravning gave a youth update • Chelsey Jacobson, NDFU staff, gave an update on activities

EPIC coach Libby Gravning displays a project made by the youth during the Adams County convention.

BARNES • Nov. 6 • Dakotah Pavilion, Valley City • Board members: Robert Bruns, president Marcy Svenningsen, vice president Megan McKay, secretary Kim McKay, treasurer Justin Sherlock, James Slag, Jordan Svenningsen, directors Tyler Van Bruggen, EPIC coach • Policy and Action resolutions discussed • Jennifer Sundeen, NDFU staff updated members on activities • Youth awards presented • Prime rib supper and door prizes

BENSON • Nov. 6 Community Center, Maddock • Board members: Kevin Smith, president Gary Smith, vice president Joann Bergrud, secretary Karen Smith, treasurer Chris Arnston, Matt Gilbertson, Mark Williams, directors Robin Arnold, EPIC coach • NDFU President Mark Watne updated members on activities BOTTINEAU • Oct. 17 Norway House, Bottineau • Board members: Kenneth Klebe, president Craig Johnson, vice president Wanda Gravseth, sec./treas.

Lyle Gravseth, Susan Steen, directors Lori Pladson, EPIC coach • Policy and Action discussion • Chelsey Jacobson, NDFU staff, gave an update to members on NDFU activities • Supper served and door prizes awarded to those present EDDY • Nov. 7 Eagles Club, New Rockford • Board members: David Fleming, president Kent Myhre, vice president

Kathryn Fleming, sec./treas.

Brent Helseth, Austin Langley, Jerry Schuster, Casey Weber, directors Hailey Fleming, EPIC coach • Kayla Pulvermacher, NDFU Member Advocacy Director presented updates on activit • Members in attendance received a free ticket to the Rockford Theatre KIDDER • Oct. 20 Pettibone Community Building • Board members: Shelly Ziesch, president Duane Ziesch, vice president Judi Hintz, sec./treas.

Sylvia Martin, Delores Ziesch, directors Shelly Ziesch, EPIC coach • Guests: Chelsey Jacobson, NDFU and Charles Linderman on behalf of Dist. 6 Director Ellen Linderman • Pizza and pop served McLEAN • Nov. 7 Bev’s Cafe, Turtle Lake • Board members: Wesley Weible, president Ronald Bloom, vice president Georgean Lick, sec./treas.

Rita Bloom, Richard Britton, Waldo Westrum, directors Brenda Fylling and Rita Bloom, EPIC coaches • Wes Niederman, Dist. 5 director, and Molly McLain, NDFU staff, spoke on NDFU activities • Policy and Action discussion held • Youth awards presented

Morton County presented gift cards to co-op directors and insurance agents attending the convention.

held around the state • Guests: Dist. 1 Director Terry Borstad and Carla Edinger, NDFU staff, updated members on NDFU events and activities

Wes Weible, left, looks on as Wes Niederman, right, reports on NDFU activities and events at the McLean County convention.

MORTON • Oct. 27 Baymont Inn & Suites, Mandan • Board members: Jim Hopfauf, president Dan Belohlavek, vice president Diane Peltz, sec./treas.

Dan Belohlavek, Ronald Peltz, Matthew Rebenitsch, Diane Schultz, Marie Weinberger, directors Lisa Rebenitsch, EPIC coach Dan Belohlavek, Ronald Peltz, Diane Schultz, Marie Weinberger, education committee • 80th anniversary slide show was shown; meal served • Co-op board members & insurance agents invited & those attending were given a gift card • Speakers, NDFU President Mark Watne, Dist. 5 director Wes Niederman, Chelsey Jacobson, NDFU staff • Youth report by Lisa Rebenitsch NELSON • Nov. 1 • Friends and Neighbors Cafe, Tolna • Board members: Beau Locken, president Loren Swenson, vice president John Kelly, sec./treas.

Randall Johnson, Matt Locken, Hazel Rude, Sheila Rude, directors Hazel Rude, EPIC coach Sheila Rude, EPIC educator • Resolutions discussed • Special recognition to Deloris Enstad & Ron Dahlen who passed away this year • Sheila Rude gave a Fly-in report

PIERCE • Nov. 16 Eagles Club, Rugby • Board members: R Jay Paul, president David Teigen, vice president Sheila Ostrem, sec./treas.

Andrew Fedje, MarShalle Fedje, John Fjellanger, Tim Ostrem, directors Becky Tofte, EPIC coach • Kayla Pulvermacher, NDFU Member Advocacy Director, updated members on NDFU events and activities • Policy and Action discussion • Meal, door prizes awarded RAMSEY • Nov. 7 • Ramsey Co. Event Center, Devils Lake • Board members: Adam Leiphon, president Dwight Noltimier, vice pres.

Connie Hanson, sec./treas.

Rudi Bloomquist, Terry Borstad, Evan Schoenfish, Daniel Webster, directors Andrea Miller, EPIC coach • Brews and brats tasting • Tom Haar, Farmers Union Oil general manager, talked about the new travel plaza in Devils Lake • NDFU Staff Mary Mertens updated members on NDFU activities

• Drawing held for a Precision Ag registration for active farmer • Introduction of new EPIC coach, Andrea Miller, and camp kids reunion RANSOM • Oct. 30 Captain T’s, Lisbon • Board members: Daniel Spiekermeier, president Paul Billing, vice president Cindy Carter, sec./treas.

Michael Bunn, Wallace Carlson, Cindy Carter, Larry Carter, Matt Lyons, directors Tyann Henderson, EPIC coach • NDFU President Mark Watne updated members on NDFU activities • Wallace Carlson won the drawing for a pair of Vikings/ Cardinals tickets RICHLAND • Nov. 13 Pizza Ranch, Wahpeton • Board members: Rodrick Lentz, president Carmen Mahler, vice president Diana Freese, sec./treas.

Water Hardie, Gary Lee, Perry Miller, Charles Prochnow, directors • Ronda Throener, Dist. 7 Director, and Mary Mertens, NDFU staff, gave updates on events and activities • Abby Miller, 2016 Summer Staff, gave a report on the Flyin she attended

Ramsey County board members, front, left to right: Adam Leiphon, Connie Hanson, Dwight Noltimier; back, left to right: Terry Borstad, Rudi Bloomquist and Daniel Webster. Not pictured: Evan Schoenfish and Andrea Miller.

“If you’re going to be a member of an organization, be an active one.”

– The late Ron Dahlen, long time Nelson County Farmers Union member Laura Dease, EPIC coach • Dist. 1 Director Terry Borstad & Chelsey Jacobson, NDFU staff, updated members on events • Pie and ice cream served

Sioux County President Larry Nagel presents a check to the fire department for $500 from the Community Stewards program.

SARGENT • Oct. 30 Community Center, Gwinner • Board members: Roger Zetocha, president Kevin Throener, vice president Colleen Sundquist, sec./treas.

Bernard Planteen, Cody Gulleson, Stephan Hogness, Colin Sundquist, directors Colleen Sundquist, EPIC coach • NDFU President Mark Watne reported on NDFU activities and events • Introduction of political and county candidates • Policy and Action discussion • Mark and Jean Bopp won the drawing for a pair of Vikings/ Cardinals tickets SIOUX • Oct. 28 Selfridge High School • Board members: Larry Nagel, president Victor Kraft, vice president Kathleen Kraft, sec./treas.

Patrick Becker, Chad Tecca, David Volk, directors Mary Jean Hunter, EPIC coach • Dist. 31 Senator Donald Schaible & Rep. Jim Schmidt and Karen Rohr spoke • Molly McLain, NDFU staff, updated members on NDFU activities and events • $500 Community Stewards checks were awarded to the fire dept. and food bank • Halloween party held for youth with prizes, games and snacks

STARK • Oct. 25 Dickinson Public Library • Board members: Dean Baar, president Deran Lefor, vice president Justin Kuylen, secretary Marvin Lantz, treasurer Bob Kuylen, Brian Scholz, directors Sarah Ewoniuk, EPIC coach • Molly McLain, NDFU staff, updated members on NDFU events and activities • Policy and Action discussion • Turkey dinner and door prizes STUTSMAN • Nov. 10 NDFU State Office, Jamestown • Board members: Michael Huebner, president Owen Olson, vice president Pauline Roeske, sec./treas.

Lori Carlson, David Gasal, Frank Hieb, Dustin Lien, directors Ashley Vinje, EPIC coach Maria Willer EPIC educator • Jessica Haak, NDFU staff, updated members on NDFU activities • Youth report by Ashley Vinje • Non-perishable items donated to food pantry by members • Meal and door prizes TOWNER • Oct. 30 Masonic Lodge, Cando • Board members: Myron Jacobsen, president Roger Held, vice president Laura Dease, sec./treas.

Laura Dease, Todd Oakland, Stephen Peters, directors

WARD • Oct. 27 • North Central Research Extension Center • Board members: Bob Finken, president Jared Lochthowe, vice president Holly Sobieck, secretary Deanna Ness, treasurer Luke Erickson, Bob Finken, Debbie Hansen, Jared Lochthowe, Holly Sobieck, directors Jared Lochthowe, legislative director Karley Porter, EPIC coach Deanna Ness, EPIC educator Debbie Hansen, Deanna Ness, Holly Sobieck, education committee • Dane Braun, NDFU staff, presented NDFU updates • Meal served s

Travel with us!

North Dakota Farmers Union Excursion Tours

Southern California Wonders & 2017 National Farmers Union Convention Feb. 26 – Mar. 11, 2017

Highlights: Sea World, San Diego Zoo City Tour of San Diego, Balboa Park, Winery, Old Historic San Diego, Urban Farms, Harbor Cruise, Mt. Soledad, Hotel Del Coronado, plus much more.

• $1,800 per person for double occupancy $2,740 single

Go to www.ndfu.org for details or call 800-366-8331 ext. 108, Carma or ext 111, Jeff

TO THE RESCUE

AFTER HEART SURGERY, BLACK TURNS TO FARM RESCUE

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

I

n early October, Gilbert Black’s harvest was right on track. He’d finish his soybeans and was ready to close out fall’s work with 600 acres of corn.

Black, who farms near Grace City, didn’t expect to be sidelined by back pain. A trip to the doctor was even more frightening.

“They did a stress test (on my heart), and I didn’t do so well on that,” Black said. “An angiogram showed massive blockage, so I had to have surgery the following morning.”

Quadruple-bypass surgery put Black on the sidelines, and with harvest not over yet, his brother Wes contacted Farm Rescue.

Farm Rescue is a “nonprofit organization that provides planting, harvesting and haying assistance free of charge to family farmers who have suffered a major injury, illness or natural disaster.”

In this case, it was a textbook example of someone in need.

“It’s an incredible organization,” Black said.

“Farm Rescue comes forward to help people, and it’s sponsored by so many great organizations in North Dakota. It’s a fantastic idea.”

Black, a North Dakota Farmers Union member, said asking for help can be difficult.

“Other people are worse off than you are, you think,” he said. “I never envisioned I’d have to use it, but I’m grateful it’s there.”

Farm Rescue combined all of Black’s corn on Oct. 25 to finish his harvest. The organization came up Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

A semi-truck from Farm Rescue sits in the yard of Gilbert Black, a farmer near Grace City who underwent a quadruple-bypass in October. Farm Rescue finished his final 600 acres of corn.

from Iowa the day before and had plans to head to Minnesota afterward.

“We’ve had several different people come through for volunteers,” Black said. “Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Arizona – they were from all over the nation. Just some fantastic people.”

He had to thank those around him as well, as neighbors finished the soybeans he was combining when he went to the doctor.

“Growing up in North Dakota, it’s just a great place to be,” Black said. “For our friends and neighbors to step forward and help – it’s an incredible place to live.” s December 2016

11 7

PLANNING A

DOUG ARNSTON retired farmer-rancher near Maddock, ND

SUCCESSION Trying to tackle tough questions about who gets what often leads to putting it off, but NDSU’s Extension Service can help

D

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

oug Arnston hasn’t started planning his succession yet, save for his son operating the family farm and ranch. The retired Farmers Union Insurance agent intends to start this winter, and a little humor is a good first step toward what can be an arduous process.

“You spend your whole life getting it together,” Doug said. “Then about the time you can have it and enjoy it, you’ve got to start figuring out how you’re getting rid of it.”

Arnston, who lives south of Maddock, attended a “Design Your Succession” workshop in Carrington, put on by the North Dakota State University Extension Service. The classes help retiring farmers and ranchers get started on handing things down to their loved ones.

“It’s always on your mind, but it’s something you keep putting off,” Arnston said. “It’s easy to put off, because everybody’s so busy. It’s easy to put your attention to something else, so you don’t have to think about it.”

Nonetheless, Arnston said the time has come for him and his wife Jane to see someone about how best to handle their succession involving their two sons Chris and Andrew and daughter Rebecca. Chris is an FUI agent, and farms and lives not far from home, but Andrew lives in Rugby and Rebecca is in Fargo.

Arnston said he attended the classes – which he called “a lot to take in” – and said he came away thinking about the many aspects to succession planning.

“You don’t all of a sudden go to class and next month, you have a plan in place,” Arnston said.

“Sometimes, it’s two or three or five years before you actually get a plan. It’s a process. I think it’s a mistake to jump into one quickly. A bad plan might be worse than no plan at all.

“I guess the main thing is, I don’t think anything should be a surprise to your kids when it’s all said and done.”

Likening the process to his experience as an agent, Arnston said it’s tough to think about mortality.

“Just like when I used to sell life insurance – you’d have people that really had a need for it, but it isn’t something they wanted to talk about,” Arnston said. “They’re not really comfortable dealing with it.”

And it’s not necessarily land or other items that carry high monetary value that break up families – it can be items with sentimental value.

“I’ve heard of big family fights over who gets great grandma’s vase – that’s what drives families apart,” Arnston said. “It isn’t always the big stuff.”

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

‘DESIGN YOUR SUCCESSION’ • GET STARTED ON A SUCCESSION PLAN USING A WORKBOOK DURING AND AFTER THE WORKSHOP • OPEN LINES OF COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILY TO CREATE A SHARED VISION FOR THE FAMILY BUSINESS • WORK WITH PROFESSIONALS TO CONSTRUCT A PLAN AND DOCUMENTS TO PUT THE FAMILY’S VISION INTO ACTION

‘DESIGN YOUR SUCCESSION’

Prior to 2014, Annie’s Project – a women-inagriculture organization – did a survey that identified succession planning as a need. It started out in a testing phase in which NDSU brought in professionals (accountants, lawyers, etc.) to visit with farmers and ranchers about how to get started. However, that proved ineffective.

“Audiences went home and still couldn’t talk about it,” said NDSU Extension Service agent Crystal Schaunaman, who was part of the original planning team. “We surveyed people and listened to what they said, and they needed to know how to have the conversation. From there, we looked at what the Extension Service does well, and that’s education.”

The planning team designed the course to take place in five modules over two to three days: • Start your succession plan: The first module “defines succession planning and highlights the importance of developing a plan and starting early.”

• Determining what you want: The second involves identifying what is important and what you want to accomplish, as well as what is realistic or possible.

• The next generation and your legacy: Module 3 asks participants to identify their successors and teaches how to effectively mentor them.

• Family meetings and conversations: Good communication being key to success in succession planning, participants “explore guidelines for planning and holding family meetings.”

• Choosing and working with professionals: The final module explores identifying, choosing and working with professionals (lawyers, accountants, etc.).

“Our goals are to get people started opening the lines of communication and to know how

REMAINING WORKSHOP DATES

Washburn.....................Dec. 6, 8, 13 Williston........................Dec. 6, 13 Napoleon......................Jan. 3, 9, 10 Cavalier........................Jan. 9, 10 Elgin.............................Jan. 10, 13, 17 Minot............................Feb. 7, 9 Oakes..........................March 14, 16

To register for a workshop, go to ag.ndsu.edu/succession

to work with professionals,” Schaunaman said.

“It’s been interesting to see what they take home.

Some took home materials for when they’re ready, and some went home and had meaningful conversations.”

Schaunaman said a survey after the first year showed the workshop’s effectiveness. And for that reason, NDSU will continue to hold it, though she did say she could see it being of a cyclical nature.

“Seventy percent of those surveyed said they went home and had a conversation with family members — that’s what we’re striving for,” Schaunaman said. “We will do this until we run out of audience, and then wait a couple years and bring it back around. The hope for this program is it will stay around for five years or so, but it’s really a program that’s timeless.”

Arnston said don’t expect every actuality to be accounted for, as that’s not realistic. However, it’s never too late to get started.

“You can’t plan everything perfectly because you don’t know what’s going to happen – circumstances change so much,” Arnston said. “If you don’t have a plan, somebody else will have one for you. It’s really important to involve the family. Work it out with them and find out what their inputs are.” s

g n i v i g s k n a Th Special

The Farmer’s Share Did you know that farmers and ranchers receive only 17.4* cents of every food dollar that consumers spend?

According to the USDA, off farm costs including marketing, processing, wholesaling, distribution and retailing account for more than 80 cents of every food dollar spent in the United States.

Turkey

Retail: Farmer:

Mashed Potatoes

Stuffing

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

5 lbs., Russet

1 lb., Butterball

$1.59 $0.89

$3.49 $0.46

15 oz., Arnold Cubes

$3.99 $0.04

Dinner Rolls

Boneless Ham

Sweet Corn

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

12 rolls

$3.29 $0.04

1 lb.

$4.49 $0.65

15.25 oz., Del Monte

$1.79 $0.05

Green Beans

Sweet Potatoes

Tomatoes

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

1 lb.

$2.19 $0.85

1 lb.

$2.98 $0.22

Cranberries

Retail: Farmer:

@NFUDC

1/2 gallon - Zieglers

$2.80 $0.63

Milk

Retail: Farmer:

$4.49 $1.44

Retail: Farmer:

/nationalfarmersunion

Retail: Farmer:

$10.09 $1.74

Beer

5 lbs.

$3.99 $0.35

$3.29 $2.64

1 lb.

Carrots

1 lb.

Retail: Farmer:

Steak

1 gallon, fat free

Farmer’s share derived from USDA, NASS “Agricultural Prices,” 2016. | Prices based on September 2016 data.

Retail prices based on Safeway (SE) brand except where noted. | *Figure according to U.S. Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service

/nationalfarmersunion

Apple Cider

2 lb. bag

6 pack - bottles

$3.95 $1.45

Retail: Farmer:

$6.99 $0.05

November 18, 2016 nfu.org/topics/blog

National Farmers Union | 20 F Street NW, Suite 300 | Washington, DC 20001 P: (202) 554-1600 | F: (202) 554-1654 | www.NFU.org | info@nfudc.org

ND SOYBEAN COUNCIL SEEKS PRODUCERS FOR LEADERSHIP POSITIONS

The North Dakota Soybean Council is seeking four soybean farmers from their respective districts to serve on its board of directors. Contact Diana Beitelspacher at the NDSC office at 888-469-6409 or dbeitelspacher@ndsoybean.org. Below are the districts looking for representation: • District 2 – Ransom and Sargent counties • District 8 – Nelson, Steele and Griggs counties • District 10 – Walsh, Pembina and Cavalier counties • District 12 – Southwestern North Dakota (visit ndsoybean.org for specific map).

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

December 2016

157

‘BIG FOOD’ CAPITALIZING

T

he more the American meat and milk sectors industrialize — via integrated contract production, fewer bigger players, machine-centered scale — the more these key parts of American agriculture resemble industry itself: commoditized products, razor-thin margins, and extended periods of steep losses.

This shift from what we once quaintly called animal husbandry has also shifted economic and political power to a handful of farm groups and even fewer transnational gatekeepers. These global players now dominate — and discipline — the farm-to-food marketing process.

That’s the point; discipline the input- and output-side of the fabrication process to squeeze more profit from both sides of the gate.

And, wow, is it working.

Currently, Big Food is reaping

ALAN GUEBERT The Farm and Food File NOTE: Guebert is scheduled to speak at the 2016 NDFU convention

enormous profits while almost every dairy farmer, hog farmer, and cowboy is begging gatekeeping packers and processors for pennies to soften a bruising year.

Worse, today’s crushing livestock markets are going to get far bleaker before any gets remotely better.

For example, in his Sept.

30 “Weekly Livestock Comments,” Andrew Griffith, an ag economist at the University of Tennessee, noted beef calves that sold for $180 per hundredweight (cwt.) this past March “averaged $118… this week… a 34.5 percent decline… or a value reduction of $341 per head.”

Moreover, Griffith offered, when recently asked “what year” today’s rib-busting cattle market would bottom, he replied, “There’s no doubt that 2017 prices will be lower than 2016 prices… It is likely 2018 prices will result in another decline… and… large losses.

Prices will likely be below 2016 levels in 2019…”

Holy cow, if today’s devastatingly low-and-goinglower cattle prices continue for two and, possibly, three more years, will any independent cowboys even be around in 2020?

Misery loves company and the cowboys won’t be riding into the sunset alone.

The bloodbath in today’s hog

ON LOW CATTLE PRICES

market will be equally long and equally “punishing,” predicted Purdue University ag economist Chris Hurt in his Oct. 3 “Weekly Outlook” report.

“With hog prices in the higher $30s this fall and winter,” explained Hurt, “estimated losses will be $25 to $30 per head. Losses are expected to moderate in the spring and summer of 2017 and intensify once more in the fall of 2017. For the year 2016, estimated losses are about $10 per head and for 2017, projected losses are at $16 per head.”

That means expected losses this year and next will near $3.5 billion and could climb if forecasted production tops recent government estimates, as many market watchers now suggest.

Dairy farmers, on the other hand, will likely continue on the roller coaster ride that’s sickened them for two years.

Like the packer-integrated hog sector that continues to expand into today’s market meltdown, mega-cow dairies continue to add cows despite clear market signals to stand pat or even cull.

That herd expansion has led to over-production and, in turn, parachuting prices for the bellwether Class III milk, or milk ticketed for cheese making.

While farmers and ranchers have been taking it in the teeth this year, Big Food is chewing through increased profits. Cargill, which operates in every corner of the world’s food business, announced Oct. 3 that its “adjusted operating earnings rose 35 percent to $827 million in the first quarter…” On Aug. 8, Tyson Foods, Inc. noted that its quarterly “earnings surge(d) 51% due to strong performance…”

None of this is news. Big Food has been moving in

on American farmers and ranchers for decades. Indeed, many farm and ranch groups encouraged the move as a logical next step in “modern food production” because it promised profit with less risk.

Now, however, it’s delivering dead and near-dead cash markets, waves of cheap imports, sustained low prices, and years of sector-shattering losses. And, too, deafening silence from the farm and ranch groups who pushed these “supply chain” links as the “future.”

When they do speak now, however, it’s usually to blame today’s market collapse on vegans, vegetarians, and the Humane Society of the U.S. Since they’re wrong on the origin of today’s sickness, no one should expect them to be right about its cure. s

FSA PAYS OUT NEARLY $430 MILLION

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

T

he North Dakota Farm Service Agency held a small meeting Oct. 24 in Fargo and via conference call to discuss its payouts this year.

FSA had already issued nearly $430 million in Agriculture Risk Coverage-County (ARC-CO) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) payments in October.

Executive Director Aaron Krauter said his office encourages counties to fill out their yield surveys, so (ARC-CO) payments can be as accurate as possible.

“From 2014 to 2015, we saw a major price decline, and we’ll probably see it again,” Krauter said. “Fill out those surveys for your yields. Those are the surveys used for payments.

It’s been a challenge for everybody.”

Corn, wheat and soybeans made up the bulk of the ARC-CO payments. Corn paid out over $122 million, while wheat was over $101 million and soybeans was nearly $94 million to farmers in North Dakota.

For PLC, canola payments accounted for $70 million of the roughly $109 million paid out.

Wheat was almost $38 million.

The formula for figuring out which program better fits a farmer’s need can be complicated.

Krauter said it’s important to take the time to learn how best to take advantage of the programs, which are designed to help struggling farmers.

“The most common question I get is, ‘Why do you guys make it so complicated?’” Krauter said.

“The answer is, what in today’s agricultural production world is not complicated? We’ve got markets, we’ve got production – there is a lot to it.” s

2017 PRECISION AGRICULTURE

ACTION SUMMIT

JANUARY 16th & 17th

NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION CONFERENCE CENTER 1415 12 th AVE SE, JAMESTOWN, ND HOSTED BY

Red River Valley Research Corridor North Dakota Farmers Union CO-ORGANIZED BY

Dakota Precision Ag Center NDSU Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering REGISTER

Go to theresearchcorridor.com/precisionagsummit2017 or contact Ryan Aasheim at 701-499-6994 or ryan@theresearchcorridor.com.

Register before Dec. 15, 2016 to receive the early bird rate.

#PrecisionAgND

ENJOY YOUR MEMBERSHIP PERKS!

Thank you for being a member of North Dakota Farm

Please take advantage of the member benefits that are availabl be a part of a progressive organization that stands up for agricu

Land O’Lakes vehicle discount!

Active farmers and ranchers as well as retired landowners can get a discount of up to $11,500 on a new pickup truck if they belong to a Land O’Lakes cooperative or affiliated partner!

Check to see if your co-op is one of many that belong to Land O’Lakes by calling Greg at 605-695-8844 or Linda at 866-456-1265.

Wilhelm discount on GM parts!

Don Wilhelm Inc., in Jamestown is giving a 10-percent discount on all GM parts! Discount does not include oil changes or tires.

18

December 2016

Membership Card

John Smith 111111 2016 Associate Pay (Non-Voting)

For more benefits, go to www.ndfu.org/benefits

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Around the State

Patrons of North Central Grain and their families enjoyed a Vikings/Lions game.

New sponsor signs are displayed at the Farmers Union Insurance Event Center in Fargo.

Rolette County Farmers Union sponsored a “Wine & Roses” ladies event recently. The ladies enjoyed a presentation, wine tasting and made gifts and cards for the residents of the Rolette Community Care Center and Dunseith Nursing Home.

Adams County Farmers Union sponsored a Community Blood Drive at the Hettinger Research Center. Pictured are Arlene Walch, Libby Gravning and Connie Hourigan.

Halloween fun

Pumpkin decorating, games and face painting were some of the activities held in the NDFU conference center for employees’ families on Halloween afternoon.

Snacks, treats and a costume contest were also part of the celebration.

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

NO ADS WILL BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. Include your name, address and phone Place your ad online: http://www.ndfu.org/news/union-farmer-classified/

Mail: NDFU Classifieds, PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402-2136 E-mail: bthoms@ndfu.org Fax: 701-252-6584 • 701-952-0102 The next deadline is January 16 Contact us to repeat your ad. Limit 175 words.

FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE New IH baler belt, size 10” wide, 389” long; new & used parts for 750 Massey combine; 2 front tires - 23.1x26; 2 MF Model 36 self-propelled swathers, 18’ ea., 1 - great shape, 1 - can be used for parts, motor is good; swather transport. 542-3301, Ed Heilman, Rugby.

FOR SALE 1976 Ford F 8880 custom cab truck, 475 cu. in., 5 x 2, 51,000 mi., 10:20s, 19’ box, 64” sides, swing out endgate, roll tarp, always shedded. 547-3873 or 341-0988, Dean M. Kiefat, Fessenden.

FOR SALE W-4 IHC, 12 volt system, belt pully and pto., rear tires good, runs good. 789-0977 or 524-1395, Peder Mikkelson, Aneta.

FOR SALE 1959 Cockshutt 550 tractor, older restoration w/original replaced parts, new tires; #37 JD mower, 7’ bar, good shape, includes hyd. cylinder, JD 3 bottom plow, ground lift, 2 12’ JD CC cultivators., 1 hydraulic with cylinder and 1 ground lift.

George Miller, Lakota, 247-3293.

FOR SALE Alloway 20’ Stalk Chopper with new hammers about 600-700 acres ago, don’t use any more, $6,000 OBO. 626-1492, Leo Thomas, Velva.

FOR SALE WW self catching headgate, $200; large wobble box for Model number 1859 MF combine head, $500. 677-5602 leave message, Kevin Kirsch, Belfield.

FOR SALE JD 1600 hay cond., 14’, 2 new sickles, new guards, new tires, $4,000; 1976 Chevy C65, 19’ box, tandem B66 engine, tag-lift, 9:20 tires new on drive axle, RAD rebuilt, 45,000 miles, $7,000. 679-2522, Sam Samson, Max. FOR SALE Hand start JD B, new 11-2-38 tires & tubes, will sell as unit or will part out; new 11-2-38 tires & tubes on JD rims; 750-17-8 ply, new. 833-5024, Don Keller, Norwich.

FOR SALE IHC 50T baler; Schulte RS hyd. rock picker; h.d. Russell Reliance 10’ grader; 10’ h.d. V packer; 5 bottom packer w/hitch; 8 steel grain bins w/steel floor; 1,00012,400 bu.; Peterson dual rims, 18.4-34 to 232.1-30; 11’ wide push-all hay basket for DuAl loader; push-off hay basket for DuAl loader; Versatile 8”x50’ pto. auger; Feterl 6“x36’ electric auger. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley.

FOR SALE Pair of original fenders to fit FarmAll tractors, $125. 256-2406, Richard Hamann, Langdon.

FOR SALE 2010 Case IH combine, 8120 deluxe cab, dual wheels; 2008 NH 94C 36’ draper header, auto header height; 2008 NH 76C 16; pickup header; 2008 Case IH 485 HD tractor, deluxe cab, 600 monitor; four 1450 anhydrous tanks in good condition; 1963 Dodge truck, tandem; 1975 IH tandem truck, Rietin Box; 1972 Freightliner tractor with 1974 Alloy trailer, 38’; Wishek disk, heavy duty; 61’ Westfield 10” dia. with Auger Jogger and Never Spill spout; H D81600 Sakundiak auger with electric motor; HDJ - 1200 Sakundiak auger with electric motor; pushoff hay basket for a JD 148 loader; Borgault air seeder 47’; Borgault harrow, 72’. 784-5987 or 833-1472, David Brossart, Lansford.

FOR SALE 1 new tire LT 245-75R-17, Load Range E; 15-30 McCormick tractor on steel; 2 cream separators; used 7” baler belting; Leon #3100 HD 10’ 3 pt. blade; Freeman hyd. manure scoop for H’s & M’s; 1 late model Super M. larryn@westriv.com, 597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields.

FOR SALE 12 - MotorGrader, v-plow and a wing, Serial #70D3873, bid as a complete unit or plow/wing separately, for information, call 568-3108 or 568-3646, send bids to Alvina Skogen, 6406 123rd Ave NW, Epping, ND 58843 before Dec. 6. We reserve the right to accept or reject any or all bids.

FOR SALE 2 JD rear wheel weights, fit 3020-4020 and most JD 3 hole mt., $150; air compressor, MI-TM make, wheel barrow type w/rubber tire front wheel, Honda gas engine, 8 gallon tank, new never used, $650; 2 Chev. steel 8 hole rims & tires, 265/70R17, M&S, 40%, $150. 683-4817, Ed Lund, Lisbon.

FOR SALE Radiator and pully assembly for 22-36 Int. tractor; endless belt; 1947 Chevy 1 1/2 ton truck, always shedded, good box and hoist.

853-2286, Bill Thorson, Hettinger.

FOR SALE 2 panels for a Dura poly White cattle hay feeder, $150 ea. 843-7026, Vernon Dittus, Almont.

FOR SALE 1993 Ford Versatile 976, 4 wd. tractor, 30.5x32 tires, 4 hyd., 10,209 hrs.; 1973 Mack truck, 3.5 tons, R685 tandem, 19’, reiterating alum. grain box, 11R24 tires; 2000 JD 680 chisel plow, 42’ Summers harrow, depth control valve, new shovels.

789-0327, Doug Lund Aneta.

FOR SALE Enclosed gooseneck tool trailer/toy hauler, 12’ oak floor plus 4’ gooseneck, wired & insulated, double doors back & side, $3,400; aluminum hay rack, 6’ x 6’ 6” with floor & ladder for top of horse trailer, $500 obo. 220-2993 or 406-580-6400, Elliott Iszler, Baldwin.

FOR SALE 33 behind shank NH3 applicators; 1680 conventional rotor rub bars set; a JohnBlue Nitrolator w/hydraulic shut off. 3510913, Paul Overby, Wolford.

FOR SALE 69 Chev. 350 truck motor (complete), 1,000 mi. on complete overhaul, $600.

789-0966, Allen Gruman, Cooperstown.

FOR SALE JD 9450R 800, metrics, new, 0 hours, $295,000; JD 2200 field cultivator 48.5’, harrow, rear hitch, Accudepth excellent, $23,000; JD 9870 24 speed, 3 quad, 50 Series motor, $24,500; 2004 Kenworth W900 ISX Cummins, studio sleeper, $29,000; JD 4830 sprayer 100’ boom 1,000 gallon, 300 hours, very nice; 1996 Wilson hopper, spring ride, excellent $14,900; JD 624E payloader, Powershift, excellent, new tires, $39,000; 2 damaged hopper bins, wind damaged, 2015s used once, 4,000 & 4,800 bushel, $3,000 each. 549-3420, Shane Heck, Cavalier.

FOR SALE New Holland BR7090 speciality crop clean baler, net and twine, moisture monitor, 1,150 bale count, stored indoors. $29,000.

597-3106 or 955-2736 leave message.

Lynette Schmeichel, Bismarck.

FOR SALE Hub duals, size 16..9 38 from IH Hydro; 2 - 8 hole rims & tires from front IH Hydro: old mower has good 20 hp. Kohler engine; Cenex lawn nower for parts. 524-2673 or 789-1020, Harvey Hanson, Sharon.

FOR SALE JD 580 25’, pto. run swather, new canvas (2), w/travel hitch, $1,000 obo; Amco 39’ tandem offset disk, $6,000. 875-4278, Jon Heller, Williston.

FOR SALE Patz 180 bu. manure spreader; 16’ Case chisel plow w/3 bar harrow; 21’ IH Vibra chisel, wings up, 13 1/2’; heavy duty 8’ Leon dozer; 8’, 3 pt. snowblower, 540 pto.; 7’ 3 pt. tree cultivator, Danish tines, like new; 1,000 gal. fuel tank w/Gas Boy electric pump, skid type; Gehl 130 bunk feeder wagon; 70 gallon ruel service tank; Chevy dually tire & rim, 800x16.5; 1100x22.5 semi tire & rim. 220-3729 or 663-0799 evenings, John Miller, Mandan.

FOR SALE 750x16 8 ply tires and rims - 8 hole, 3 rib tires are 90%, fits Case tractor, $375.

628-6949 or 314-640-1884, Rose or Mike Ryan, Stanley.

WANTED 806, 1206, 1256, 856, 1466 IH tractors; JD 5010, 5020, 6030, MM 1350, 1355 and others, running or not. 628-2130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley.

WANTED 2 - 15.5 x 38 or 16.9 x 38 or 14.9 x 38 tractor tires. 220-3729 or 663-0799 evenings, John Miller, Mandan.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1981 Buick Century, auto on floor, bucket seats, air, factory installed V8 4.3L motor, mint condition; 1951 Straight Eight Buick. larryn@westriv.com, 597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields.

FOR SALE 2004 Nissan X-Tera, original owner, no accidents, 139,000 mi., 4 X 4, green color, 6 cyl, automatic, heavy duty hitch, grill guard, spotlight, must see to appreciate, $5,500.00. 839-4666 or 240-4550, leave message if no answer, Sam Higgins,Minot.

FOR SALE 2010 Dodge 1500, 4X4, 4 door, 5.7 Hemi automatic, 130,000 mi., $12,000. 2867345, Marc Sundquist, Baldwin.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS VEHICLES FOR SALE, 1989 Buick Century Special, needs power steering work. 748-2221, Elmer Schiermeister, Hazen.

FOR SALE 2005 Buick LaCrosse CX, 76,560 mi. 2463426 or 550-0959, Jay Heinz, Rolette.

FOR SALE 1971 GMC 1/2 ton pickup, automatic transmission, straight body, restoration project, engine has a miss, $500. 5707563, Mike Hell, Williston.

FOR SALE 1996 Chevy Caprice Classic, 50,000 mi., $4,995 obo. 678-6861, Allan Meyer, Stirum.

FOR SALE 1989 Ford F150 pickup, 2 WD, Radco topper, 54,000 mi., 302 ci., auto, AC, PS, 2 gas tanks, excell. tires and cond., currently licensed, always garaged, 1 owner, $5,000 firm. 952-8973 - Glen Nagel or 368-1499 Boyce, Jamestown.

WANTED Model A Ford Coupe and/or parts. 6801079, Dylan Ekstrom, Forman.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE 8” bench grinder, 3/4 hp., 3,450 RPM, 110/220 volt, 42” stand, $50; 1976 Grand Forks County Heritage Book $10; 1988 History of Rolla, ND, $10; 1993 Living in Norway, Flammarion Press, $10; 1967 New Catholic Encyclopedia; 1942 Universal Jewish Encylopedia; 1962 Interpreters Dictionary of the Bible; 1982 Manvel Centennial Book, $10; 1981 Harvey ND $10; NDSU annuals, $20 ea. - 1962, 64, 66, 67, 68, 1931, 1947 & 49; UND annuals, $20 ea. - 1964, 67, 68, 69, 50, 51, 55, 56 and 2005 alumni directory. 772-5613, Peter Paulson, Grand Forks.

FOR SALE New lock for back doors of semi-truck, heavy duty, about 8” by 14, wraps around rods, 2 keys that cannot be copied except thru company, originally $100, selling for $45. 739-6821, July McGrath, Grand Forks.

FOR SALE 2 male Red Heeler pups, from good working parents, $150. 286-7345, Marc Sundquist, Baldwin.

FOR SALE Guns - Ruger K22, 22 cal. stainless barrel and receiver, auto, pink syn. stock, sites & mts., NIB $330; Ruger American 22 LR, bolt action, ADJ trigger, Scheels scope, syn. stock, like new, $400; ROSSI Mod. 92, carbine lever action, 44 Magnum, 20” barrel, wood stock sites like new, $500.

683-4817, Ed Lund, Lisbon.

FOR SALE 2005 Camp Master toy hauler, 20’ pull-behind, 8’x10’ living quarters, 8’x10’ cargo area, full drop down door, levels, plate rock guard added, new awning added, bath/ toilet, shower, sink, microwave, rooftop AC new hot water heater, gas & electric fridge, TV receiver, etc.; Studebaker hood for 1949-53 truck, good metal with original hood ornament & name plate, $450; 1980 Chevrolet Malibu hood, $150. 628-6949, Rose or Mike Ryan, Stanley.

FOR SALE Amish 4 person buggy, brand new pull shaves, 2 black velveteen adjust. & folding seats, setup for hyd. brakes, has safety lighting & switches, has windows, 2 front movable, 3 fixed, all naugahyde sides, top & back drop in good cond, call for pics.; air boat pontoon, 26’ custom built, two engine - 90 hp. VW w/hand crafted wooden fan, wind and water + 4 stroke 25 hp. Mercury, new plywood & carpet, live well, canopy, etc., heavy duty trailer, $15,800; old homestead house, 26’x12’, 11’ high at peak, 2 room, very sturdy, must be moved off property, $2,000; old grain shed, 16’x12’, 9’ high front, 7’ back, can be dismantled for wood, $800. 628-6949 or 314-799-6949, Rose or Mike Ryan, Stanley.

FOR SALE Calf puller, ratchet type; large & small calf sleds; double galvanized tubs on stand; green pint jars & zinc lids; old wooden boxes; Grundig Majestic radio/phonograph console, #8095, made in West Germany.

252-6455, Myron Tarno, Jamestown.

FOR SALE Dish towels, sets of seven assorted patterns, Butterflies, Indians and many more, $25 & $30. 843-7026, Vernon Dittus, Almont.

FOR SALE Collars & related items; 45 used utility poles, 35’-50’ long; used tires - 6 Bridgestone, 245-75-R16; 4 - 225-60-R16 M&S; 4 used Firestone P265-70-R16 M&S; 3 Michelin P225-60-R16 M&S; 4 Hercules Ultra 21570-R15. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley.

FOR SALE 2 Bitterroot Mountain Mule saddles, rawhide covered wood tree to make a light wt. saddle, weighs 26 lbs. w/cinch, hooded stirrups and crupper, leather is#1 Herman Oak, stirrups are 3” twist & wrap, Belvins buckles, breast collar, crupper dees & horn wrap, saddles are like new, $900 ea.

843-7257 evenings, Sharan Bethke, New Salem.

FOR SALE 16’ bumper stock trailer, new floor, lights, wiring, good shape, can be used for stock or cargo, $2,500. 320-3314 Tom Kleven, Medina FOR SALE 4 tall sturdy kitchen chairs and 2 shorter kitchen chairs; 1820 Gas Boy pump. 9475887, Darla Hagen, Sheyenne.

FOR SALE 1990 Cobra Sierra 5th wheel travel trailer, clean, 28’, sleeps 6; decoys - Snow Geese floaters & 1 doz. Canadian; magazines 1970’s & forward - Nat. Geographic, Readers Digests, Popular Mechanics; a 27”X56” white chest freezer, $50. 701351-0913 Paul Overby, Wolford, ND. FOR SALE Chukar partridge; pair of purebred Harlequin rabbits; lots of left hand gloves, will trade for right hand gloves. 324-2948 evenings, Jerry Axtman, Harvey.

FOR SALE Anderson crank out windows, excellent shape, wood framed, metal clad, double framed - 2 6’ W x 4’ H, 1 - 4’ W x 4’ H, 1 - 4’ W x 5’ H, 2 - 28 3/4” W x 40 3/4” H, 2 28 3/8” W x 5’ H, 1 - 18” W x 3’ H, $5,000 worth of windows - $1,000 for all; Poulan Pro 27”, two stage, snow blower, new Tecumseh 10 hp. engine, $700. 789-0966, Allen Gruman, Cooperstown.

FOR SALE Elvis records; vintage seed purity scale; Lincoln, Kennedy, and Teddy Roosevelt Presidential dollars. 500-9522, Monte Reiner, Minot.

WANTED 1966 Plymouth Fury right front fender. 7994839, Curtis Bunn, Sheldon.

WANTED Prairie dog hunters to hunt on my land.

Make reservations now. larryn@westriv. com, 597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields.

WANTED Used T-fence posts, 5-7’, need to fence 2 quarters. 281-0899, Anna Beauclair, McHenry.

WANTED Pac Man table top video game; Mr. Peanut or Peanut Man cast iron figures; vintage stereo components; Stanley Steamer upright wardrobe trunk; Beatles rcords; Pink Floyd records; vintage cuff link sets; vintage toy gun and holster sets. 500-9522, Monte Reiner, Minot.

WANTED WWII German Luger, must be all original and matching. 200-7125, jgrindahl@gmail. com, John Grindahl, Fargo.

WANTED Old advertising signs, gas pumps, metal oil cans, crocks, jugs, clocks or thermometers with advertising, road signs, traps, shell boxes, guns, tokens, marbles, anvils, pop or medicine bottles, tin coffee cans, ND pottery, carnival glass. 220-5746 or 2580420, Val Ganje, Bismarck.

WANTED Used horseshoes. 789-0966, Allen Gruman, Cooperstown.

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE 15 mixed color bred cows, second calver to 10 year old, bred to pull Hereford, black and red Angus bull, low birth weight, will be pg. if someone buys them off the farm and we will pay for it, bulls were turned out May 15 through August 28. $1,800. 679-2522, Sam Samson, Max.

FEED AND SEED FOR SALE Large round bales, Alfalfa/Broom, prairie hay made with NH688 baler w/thick plastic twine, could load. larryn@westriv.com, 597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields.

FOR SALE 240 Certified weed-free straw bales, baled in 2016, excellent for mulching, located 20 miles NW of Dickinson, $35 ea. 677-5602 leave a message and will return call, Kevin Kirsch, Belfield.

FOR SALE Spring Wheat seed - Certified “Elgin” HRSW, 97% germination, bulk or totes, delivery available, $7 per bushel. 739-0191, Brian Ludwig, New Rockford (and Minot).

FOR SALE Big round bales of 2nd & 3rd cutting of Alfalfa and a few prairie bales. 324-2948 evenings, Jerry Axtman, Harvey.

Farmers & Distillers set to open

F

armers Restaurant Group (FRG) is abuzz with the fabulous news of the opening of our latest outpost, Farmers & Distillers!

Set to open Dec. 13, our team is ready to welcome our first guests during the festive, holiday season. Our kitchens are prepped, our team is trained, and our bar staff is primed to serve delightful cocktails featuring our Founding Spirits, straight from our amazing in-house distillery.

In addition to our creative, tantalizing menu featuring something for everyone, like our Founding Farmers-centric favorites mixed with culturally inspired dishes from our Mt. Vernon neighborhood (such as pork schnitzel, an ode to the German immigrants who worked on D.C.’s east side; our Chinatown-inspired hand-pulled noodles; and use of European cooking techniques in dishes like our Pot-au-Feu), Farmers & Distillers guests will also be treated to the freshest, most

distinctive cocktails we can create.

Oh yes, Farmers & Distillers has a distillery specially built within the restaurant. Founding Spirits is a unique space dedicated to the process and production of our proprietary spirits, with our first rollout being Founding Spirits Vodka, made with North Dakota Hard Red Spring wheat, and Founding Spirits Amaro, a delicious, never bitter liqueur, and more to come.

In fact, we know our guests will enjoy the Founding Spirits concept, distilling process, and the love Beverage Director Jon Arroyo and his team put into every batch, so much that tours of the facility, tastings, and products for purchase are slated to begin in February of 2017.

Offering our guests great food and beverages is our passion. And Farmers & Distillers is no exception. But, as we try to achieve with all our restaurants, this story is unique. Our inspiration?

Our original founding father, George Washington. Most know Washington as America’s first president and highly respected general, but he was also an acclaimed farmer, distiller and entrepreneur. His American industriousness and keen eye for opportunity are built into the very foundation of this country and into every aspect of Farmers & Distillers. Through our development process we kept asking ourselves, “What would George do?” be it with flavor, cooking techniques or atmosphere.

We hope you love the final product as much as we do, as we look forward to welcoming you to Farmers & Distillers located in the culturally diverse, cool, eclectic Mt. Vernon neighborhood, in the heart of Washington, D.C. For more information, please visit our website: FarmersandDistillers.com. s

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Stay tuned!

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he November presidential election brought about a change to executive leadership in Washington, D.C. The election results also shed light on a growing frustration in rural America for both the establishment in Washington, D.C., and the numerous failed trade agreements that have grown the U.S. trade deficit to more than $500 billion per year, among other reasons.

NFU ready to work with Trump administration

Donald J. Trump won the U.S. presidential election in November, ushering in a transition from the Obama Administration to a Trump Administration. The day after the election results came in, NFU extended a congratulatory letter to President-elect Trump, outlining opportunities to work together with the new administration on common ground farm policy issues.

Rejecting the Trans-Pacific Partnership, reducing the U.S. trade deficit, supporting the Renewable Fuel Standard, putting an end to relentless corporate mergers, and passing strong farm policies in the next Farm Bill were among the list – all issues that Mr. Trump voiced support for during his campaign.

The Farm Bill will be a major undertaking for the next administration and the new Congress. Given the difficult farm economy, NFU hopes to work closely with the administration to quickly provide relief for struggling farmers and ranchers.

Compromise, respect and open communication will be important when the diverse sectors of the agricultural Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

industry don’t agree. NFU believes that good opportunities in agriculture are the foundation of strong farm and ranch families, and strong farm and ranch families are the basis for thriving rural communities. We may not agree on every issue, but we can agree on the need for meaningful solutions for farm families and rural America.

No vote on TPP in lame duck session of Congress

A staunch opponent of the TPP, NFU commended Congress for agreeing to forgo a lastminute vote and reexamine the deeply flawed trade agreement.

The TPP would have done very little, if anything, to lessen the impact of the country’s vast trade deficit, provide actionable oversight of unfair market practices such as currency manipulation, or protect American jobs. Congress can now focus on ensuring U.S. trade negotiators promote fair and competitive trade deals that benefit U.S. family farmers and ranchers and manufacturers who rely on access to competitive markets around the world.

NFU looks forward to working with the new administration and the next Congress to promote fair trade solutions that work for American agriculture and the U.S. economy.

NFU defends family beef producers

As the weakened farm economy continues to take a toll on family farmers and ranchers, NFU is criticizing meatpackers for driving down prices for independent beef producers.

Data released in October showed that family cow-calf producers are losing nearly $300 per cow

while the packers’ profit margins have increased by approximately $75 per cow, compared to a year ago.

The country has seen a lot of family cattle operations go out of business in the last 30 years because the packers have an enormous amount of power and control over the beef market.

Beef production is at an all-time low, but beef prices continue to decline faster than they have in history. Yet, the packers cash profit margins have been on the rise. The situation is incredibly unfair for family producers.

Industry consolidation has left control of over 85 percent of the beef market in the hands of four beef producers – Cargill, Tyson, JBS and National Beef Packing Co. – and the lack of transparency and competition has created a volatile market for family farmers. Through their domineering market control, the meatpackers are increasingly dictating the terms of production, marketing, and pricing for cattle producers.

In December 2015, Congress repealed the country-of-origin labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, allowing meatpackers to import cheaper beef products and not have to identify where the animal came from on the package label.

Unfortunately, U.S. federal policies favor the international meatpackers instead of the family cattle ranchers. Producers must be given the tools they need to compete, whether through correction of inadequate trade agreements, by reinstating COOL or amending mandatory price reporting laws. Congress needs to put the interests of America’s family farmers and ranchers before the interests of multinational corporations. s December 2016

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Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division

PERIODICALS – POSTAGE PAID

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

Have a safe and happy holiday season

From the agents, staff and management of Farmers Union Insurance