FARMER UNION
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TEUTUL DELIVERS!
Paul Teutul Jr., NDFU unveil Family Farms chopper at 92nd annual state convention
JANUARY 2019
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701.204.7474 or 888.521.3432 https://farmersuniontravel.agentstudio.com/ UNION FARMER MAGAZINE Volume 66 • Number 1
The UNION FARMER is published monthly by North Dakota Farmers Union at 1415 12th Ave SE, Jamestown, ND 58401. 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 • PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402-2136 Copies mailed this issue: 30,632 • USPS 016-211
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS: President: Mark Watne • Vice President: Bob Kuylen • Secretary: Wes Niederman Treasurer: Terry Borstad • Shane Sickler; Tyler Stafslien; Ryan Taylor; Ronda Throener; Michelle Ziesch. 2 • January 2019 • Union Farmer
NDFU’S 92ND ANNUAL
STATE CONVENTION
M
ore than 600 North Dakota Farmers Union members participated in the organization’s 92nd annual state convention Dec. 14-15 in Bismarck. A mix of educational speakers, remarks from North Dakota congressional leaders who will be sworn into the 116th Congress, unveiling of the Family Farms chopper, introduction of Our Family Farm children’s book, organizational elections, youth achievement recognition, policy debate and entertainment highlighted the year-end celebration. Velva farmer Mark Watne was re-elected president, a position he has held since 2013. Bob Kuylen of South Heart was re-elected vice president. Ryan Taylor of Towner was elected to the state board of directors, representing District 2. He replaces Jim Teigen of Rugby, who did not seek re-election. District 2 encompasses the counties of Bottineau, McHenry, Pierce, Rolette and Ward. Shane Sickler of Gladstone was re-elected to the District 4 seat, running unopposed. That district encompasses the counties of Adams,
Billings, Bowman, Dunn, Golden Valley, Hettinger, McKenzie, Slope and Stark. Michelle Ziesch of Pettibone was elected to the state board of directors for District 6. She replaces Ellen Linderman of Carrington who did not seek re-election. District 6 covers Dickey, Eddy, Foster, Kidder, LaMoure, Logan, McIntosh, Stutsman and Wells counties. Of special note were two special orders of business that were adopted by members. The first called on the Trump administration and USDA to distribute the second round of trade relief payments to farmers hurt by the trade war with China. The second recognized the undue economic stress farmers are facing with net farm income at a 12-year low. Farmers Union members called on the state to provide adequate mental health services in rural areas and adequate funding for mediation services. Closing out the convention was the Torchbearer Award ceremony, where 10 youths earned the highest honor that can be achieved in the Farmers Union youth program.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM POLICY AND ACTION • ARC and PLC payments. Members support changes to the ARC and PLC calculations that take local basis levels into account, and an increase in reference prices. • Meat and beef definitions. NDFU members voiced concerns with non-animal components and any product grown in a laboratory that is then labeled as “meat,” or related products such as “beef,” “poultry,” or “seafood.” The following definitions were adopted by the members: “Beef” is product from cattle that have been born, raised and harvested in the traditional manner. “Meat” is product from the tissue or flesh of animals that have been harvested in the traditional manner. Products derived from alternative sources, such as synthetic product from plants, insects or other non-animal components and any product grown in a lab from animal cells are prohibited from being labeled as meat or more specifically, beef. • Product development. NDSU’s meat and cereal buildings are used for research and development. Those buildings have aged significantly over the years and need to be replaced. NDFU will support ongoing efforts to replace these buildings with a New Products Development Center that would house both programs and would better represent the ag industry in North Dakota. • Short-term insurance. Delegates passed language asking for short-term health care insurance carry a minimum of 12 months, and that those months should match up with open enrollment. • ND gas tax. North Dakota is currently facing overwhelming needs to improve its existing infrastructure. NDFU delegates passed language in regard to the gas tax, asking for it to be increased, as federal highway funds continue to decrease. • Farm home tax exemption. Member policy reiterated its support for the Farm Home Tax Exemption and broadened its language to allow for flexibility. • County shops. The state of North Dakota should provide adequate facilities, equipment and personnel for timely snow removal on all state highways to guarantee emergency services and transportation safety for rural residents; and state driver’s license testing and renewal services in remote areas. • Mental health awareness. We support efforts to bring awareness to mental health issues in North Dakota with a special emphasis on suicide prevention.
WATNE DELIVERS PRESIDENT’S REPORT
O
ur 92nd annual state convention recently concluded, and I want to thank all of our members for making it truly special. We had excellent attendance as our grassroots policy development was in action. We are a grassroots organization driven by member involvement and to see so many participate really speaks to the strength of our organization. Thanks to all of you! Looking back on 2018, it was a busy year for North Dakota Farmers Union. We’ve been working hard on improving the farm economy, educating the consumer and getting the word out on mental health. Here are some of the big moments from your farm organization in 2018. • In January, we held a two-day event titled: “Life Beyond Breaking Even: Farm Economic Summit 2018.” The event was held at the Energy Center at Bismarck State College. It featured speakers and panels that spoke about farm economics and mental health. As farms get bigger and more isolated in the country, observing your neighbor’s habits and behavior is getting increasingly more difficult, and that means it’s harder to catch the warning signs of significant stress. We will continue to work hard on this issue in the coming year. • In April, NDFU opened its seventh farmer-owned restaurant, this time in Reston, Va. The restaurants are a great tool to educate consumers on the importance of family farm agriculture. We’re feeding about 50,000 consumers a week, and each consumer gets a subtle message about family farm agriculture. • In June, we held the 2018 Rally for Agriculture in West Fargo, and it was
well-attended, especially by the media. In addition to state and regional news outlets, we had multiple national news outlets show up and report on our message. There were over 150 people from farm country in attendance to raise concerns about the ongoing farm crisis. It was a great event that had to be put together quickly, and it really showcased the strength of our grassroots. This effort helped in getting trade assistance to farmers with the challenging trade war we are currently experiencing. • In September, we sent nearly 100 farmers and ranchers to Washington, D.C., to advocate for family farms. It was the largest attended fly-in in recent memory. We pushed to get a farm bill completed and advocated for raising PLC reference prices, a fix to trade issues, protecting the Renewable Fuel Standard and expanding to E30. The farm bill appears complete, and it’s similar to the senate version that was proposed. That’s good news for farmers. • Also in September, we released a children’s book, “Our Family Farm: Everyone Works on a Family Farm.” This book really tells the story of family farm agriculture and the hard work that multigenerational families put into the farm each day. I encourage you to buy more than a few and send them to your city cousins as a way of doing your part to help educate the consumer. Consumer support of family farm and ranch agriculture is essential to our efforts to enhance farm and ranch income. The books are available online at ndfu.2020brands.org, or you can call the state office at 1-800-366-8331 and ask for Eunice. • In October, Judge Daniel Hovland of
NDFU President Mark Watne
the U.S. District Court for North Dakota handed down a decision that preserves our corporate farming law. The judge’s decision doesn’t just reinforce what we believe — it supports the 76 percent of North Dakotans that said no to corporate farming at the ballot box in 2016. It’s a great victory in our effort to maintain our corporation farming laws, and we thank all of the North Dakotans that voted to keep agriculture in the hands of family farmers. • In December, we held our state convention, and our goal was to provide a truly unique experience for our members. It’s fair to say we succeeded, especially with the unveiling of our Family Farms chopper that will soon be featured
on the show, “American Chopper.” Not only do we get the benefit of a 40-minute TV show about family farm agriculture (plus re-runs), but we also have the bike itself and the ability to reach consumers that wouldn’t typically pay attention to ag issues. Watch for our episode to air on the Discovery Channel soon. I hope this gave you some insight into what we’ve been working on this past year. They’re important efforts, and they represent only a small portion of what’s done on a daily basis at NDFU. Your organization works extremely hard on the challenges facing family farmers and ranchers in a time of great uncertainty. Thank you for your commitment to NDFU!
DELEGATES TO THE NATIONAL CONVENTION MARCH 3-5 IN BELLEVUE, WASH. District 1: David Gorder (Grand Forks), Adam Held (Egeland), Jon Iverson (Langdon), Sheila Rude (Tolna), Clay Smaaladen (Grand Forks), Scott Udby (Lankin). Alternates: Gene Haus (Calio), John Kelly (Pekin). District 2: Tyler Neubauer (Bottineau), Kellen Olson (Anamoose), Nikki Taylor (Towner), Ryan Taylor (Towner), Nathan Watne (Velva). Alternates: Dylan Finken (Douglas), Spencer King (Donnybrook). District 3: Kurt Andre (Williston), Devin Jacobson (Alamo), Jeri Keith (Sherwood), Steve Keith (Sherwood), Floyd Miller (Williston). Alternates: Cathy Stromme (Zahl), Dennis Stromme (Zahl). District 4: Dustin Laufer (Hettinger), Shanda Laufer (Hettinger), Jamie Sickler (Gladstone), Lenci Sickler (Gladstone), Shane Sickler (Gladstone), Arlene Walch (Hettinger). Alternates: Paulette Baar (Gladstone), Jon Pierce (Gladstone). District 5: Roxann Bloom (Ryder), Erin Huntimer (Hannover), Bill Kershaw (Menoken), Wes Niederman (Elgin), Randall Ryberg (Menoken), Wendy Tecca (Solen). Alternates: Steve Tomac (Saint Anthony), Wes Weible (Turtle Lake). District 6: Lori Blocker (Ashley), Sandra Franke (Jamestown), Crystal Hotovec (Pettibone), Mike Huebner (Jamestown), JP Lueck (Spiritwood), Michelle Ziesch (Pettibone). Alternates: Lori Carlson (Jamestown), Kasey Bitz (LaMoure). District 7: Bob Bruns (Valley City), Ron Halvorson (Binford), Ross Lockhart (Grandin), Wyatt Sundquist (Forman), Marcy Svenningsen (Valley City), Ben Vig (Sharon). Alternates: Mark Bopp (Forman).
I
NDFU, TEUTUL UNVEIL FAMILY FARM CHOPPER
f that first glimpse of the Family Farms chopper didn’t take your breath away, the second one will when the bike is shown on the Discovery channel’s “American Chopper” program in February. Paul Teutul, Jr., revealed the chopper on Friday evening to a raucous crowd chanting, “Fire up the bike!” In a radio interview that morning, Teutul said he and his team were excited to unveil the custom motorcycle. “It’s a very unique bike in the sense that there’s some things about the bike that we’ve never really done before and that really fit the brand. I’m excited to get the reaction.” Created in just six weeks’ time, Teutul said the motorcycle was built without any diagrams. “There are no drawings for the way that we build. We just listen to the client and whatever is important to their brand, that’s what we integrate. And we do it in real space and time with a killer team of guys.” “When we take these projects on, we don’t just build a bike,” he explained. “We become the brand ambassador for that brand… and we’re very careful about the nuances of it because we don’t want to put it in our own words. It’s not about us.” Ultimately, Teutul said the goal is to build the bike that NDFU would have built for itself. Having grown up in upstate New York, Teutul said it was rewarding to build a chopper that pays homage to family farms. “I grew up with farmers and grew up near farmland and just always appreciated the hard work and how important they are, literally, to our country. We wouldn’t be here without the farmers. That’s just the bottom line and that’s what built this country. I’m just proud to be a part of it.”
COOL UNVEIL, BUT WHERE ARE THE PICTURES OF THE BIKE? North Dakota Farmers Union isn’t allowed to show pictures of the bike until the show airs during the new season of American Chopper on the Discovery Channel. The new season is scheduled to kick off some time in early February. Look for a full spread in the March Union Farmer!
Members walk past the bike after the unveiling.
TOP: Paul Teutul, Jr., shakes the hand of NDFU President Mark Watne after driving the Family Farms chopper onto the convention floor during the unveiling Dec. 14 at the Bismarck Event Center. BELOW: The crowd waits anxiously for the bike to be unveiled.
Sen. John Hoeven talks about the farm bill at NDFU’s 92nd annual state convention Dec. 15 at the Bismarck Event Center.
Delegation addresses convention N DFU members welcomed North Dakota’s congressional delegation to the convention on Saturday as Sen. John Hoeven, Senator-elect Kevin Cramer and Congressman-elect Kelly Armstrong addressed the farm bill and trade. Cramer called the farm bill “a pretty good product,” saying it builds on the foundation of the 2014 farm bill. The number one priority, he said, was maintaining crop insurance in the bill. Adjustments to PLC reference prices and FSA loan limit increases were among the changes he highlighted. In outlining specific provisions of the
Senator-elect Kevin Cramer speaks about his role in the farm bill.
farm bill, Hoeven also cited the need to approve USMCA and trade adjustment assistance payments to farmers. On China’s recent purchase of soybeans, he said, “We’ll see how much and how fast and what the impact is. But we need to get those trade agreements in place, get rid of those tariffs and make sure we can continue to export.” Armstrong agreed with Hoeven, saying, “We need to get better trade deals. We need to make sure that this administration, Republicans, Democrats, urban, rural, understand how important these issues are to North Dakota producers… and how important ag is.”
Congressman-elect Kelly Armstrong tells members about transitioning to his new office.
Dana Sullivan, author-illustrator of Our Family Farm, draws an elephant with overalls after a suggestion from the on-stage youth convention.
Sullivan wows audience with art W
ith youngsters literally at his feet, Dana Sullivan brought “Our Family Farm” to life as he introduced Farmers Union members to the characters and story he created to tell the story of family farm agriculture. In January, Sullivan was commissioned by NDFU to write and illustrate the children’s book that was completed in nine months. “That is lightning fast in the publishing world,” he noted. Through a collaborative effort with Farmers Union, the original concept for the book was expanded to incorporate farm equipment into the storyline, each with its own personality. Sullivan, who lives near Seattle and was on a tractor just once as a youngster on a relative’s dairy farm in Wisconsin, said the farm to table process was challenging to illustrate. “Mark [Watne] said a straw slurping up grain isn’t how grain elevators work,” he smiled. “But it made Mark laugh, so we kept it in.” Wielding an oversized pencil, Sullivan sketched an elephant upon request and then enhanced the lines with a marker to show how illustration is done. He encouraged kids to draw, write and tell their own story. In 2008, Sullivan was the creative director at Costco Wholesale, a position he left with the support of his wife to start illustrating and writing books. Since then, he has worked on 15 books, three of which he wrote and illustrated himself. “I can’t tell you how happy I am when I get a picture of a kid reading my book,” he said. “There’s something magical about it.”
Sullivan interacts back and forth between the children and the audience.
Dr. Frayne Olson discusses soybean markets to open the convention Saturday morning.
‘New world’ for soybeans Dr. Frayne Olson, crop economist for North Dakota State, told members at the North Dakota Farmers Union convention not to expect big increases in the price of soybeans. “We just have way too many beans,” he said. While Olson said the recent purchase of U.S. soybeans by China was good for farmers, there’s a chance China could be buying just enough to get to the Brazilian soybean harvest in January. Even if that’s not the case, Olson said expect to see China buy in small increments to keep the market price where it is. Olson told convention-goers that “there’s no going back” on soybeans. “We’ve gone past the point of no return — it’s a new world for soybeans,” he said. Olson was asked in the audience about the idea that China has to buy soybeans from the U.S. because there isn’t enough supply elsewhere. China is projected to need 85 million metric tons of soybeans. The Brazilian harvest is expected to yield over 120 million metric tons. “The statement that China has to buy from the U.S. doesn’t work,” Olson said. “Some of that harvest in Brazil is for their crushing industry, but if they set less soybeans for their crushing aside, they could supply China 100 percent.” Where should the farmer go next? Olson said pay attention to spring wheat, as even though China has the world’s largest stock of wheat, it could be looking at purchasing
spring wheat from the U.S. because of its increased protein. But Olson also asked the rhetorical question: “If you cut soybean (acreage), what will that do to the markets of wheat and corn?” Olson said he feels the U.S. may have done longterm damage to its relationship with China in regard to soybeans. “I think we’ll be a residual supplier — they’ll go elsewhere first.” After lunch on Saturday, National Farmers Union president Roger Johnson also discussed trade in his presentation, as well as the farm bill, ag consolidation, renewable fuels, country-of-origin labeling and mental health in rural America. Of the issues, Johnson spoke most passionately about trade. “It takes a long time to build a reputation — in your personal lives and in the world,” Johnson said. “Our reputation has been badly damaged, and it could take a long time to fix it.” On Friday morning prior to the start of convention, John Paul Martin — warning coordinator for the National Weather Service in Bismarck — presented an outlook for weather in the coming year and also talked about climate patterns. Martin said the country is in a “weak El Nino” year, which means temperatures should be “a little warmer” and snowfall should be “a little less” than normal in North Dakota this winter.
The 2018 Torchbearer Class includes Breanna Olson (Forbes), Veronica Schwartzenberger (Napoleon), Nicholas Pfeifer (Valley City), Braylen Bruns (Valley City) and Robert Fitterer (Golden Valley). Not all Torchbearers were present. See below for a full list.
TEN YOUTHS NAMED TORCHBEARERS
Ten youths from around the state earned their Torchbearer award at North Dakota Farmers Union’s 92nd annual state convention on Saturday night, Dec. 15, in a special ceremony recognizing the achievement. The Torchbearer award is the highest honor that can be achieved in Farmers Union’s youth program. Recipients must complete five years of senior youth work and attend at least one senior youth camp. Morgan Schwartzenberger, a former camp director and caretaker, spoke to the 2018 Torchbearer class. He shared an uplifting message about the benefits of a positive attitude. Award recipients also recited the Torchbearer Pledge: “I accept my responsibility as a Torchbearer of the Farmers Union, and I pledge to bear that torch with clean hands and a courageous heart. I unite with my fellow Torchbearers in a pledge to practice tolerance and brotherhood – and to keep my torch ever one of those which shall
SCHWARTZENBERGER AWARDED ALAN BERGMAN SCHOLARSHIP
Morgan Schwartzenberger spoke to the 2018 Torchbearer class.
light the way to a peaceful world.” This year’s Torchbearer class: Braylen Bruns (Valley City), Robert Fitterer (Golden Valley), Lane Gandrud (Stanley), Breanna Olson (Forbes), Nicholas Pfeifer (Valley City), Emily Ketelsen (Ray), Veronica Schwartzenberger (Napoleon), Makayla Tysver (Dickinson), Noah Wegenast (Ypsilanti) and Alexa Young (Napoleon).
Veronica Schwartzenberger of Napoleon was named the 2018 recipient of the $1,000 Bergman Scholarship from North Dakota Farmers Union. The scholarship was established by Alan Bergman, past president of NDFU. To be eligible, applicants must be current Torchbearers and have at least a 2.50 GPA. The recipients were selected by a panel that evaluates each applicant’s responses to essay questions that relate to Farmers Union, rural issues and personal leadership skills.
SNAPSHOTS FROM
CONVENTION
See more photos with our online gallery at ndfu.org
Treble in Paradise – made up of agents Jamie Ressler, Josh Ressler, Jed Geer and Tim Johnson – open with the national anthem.
Spencer King of Kenmare, Dylan Finken of Douglas and Devin Jacobson of Crosby visit during a coffee break.
Floyd Miller of Williston talks during policy debate.
Jennifer Meyer of Wilton addresses policy.
Perry Ostmo of Sharon plays the wine-pull.
NDFU had inflatables for kids to play on.
The Torchbearer banquet was on Saturday night.
Kids played on the tractors throughout convention.
Our Family Farm creator Dana Sullivan helped with youth convention.
Policy and Action begins the first day.
FUI agent Amber Haugland auctions off a dinner for eight with Mark and Michelle Watne at their residence in Jamestown.
NDFU Vice President Bob Kuylen and District 5 Director Wes Niederman hold up the Farmers Union quilt to be auctioned off.
NDFU District 6 Director Ellen Linderman gives her farewell speech. She did not re-run.
NDFU District 2 Director Jim Teigen gives his farewell speech. He did not re-run.
Michelle Ziesch (District 6) and Ryan Taylor (District 2) were elected to the NDFU Board of Directors.
The Johnny Holm Band closed out convention.
McHenry County hosted a costume party at its convention.
Counties hold
ADAMS • Nov. 17 • Hettinger Research Center BOARD: Libby Gravning (president, EPIC coach), DeJon Bakken (vice president), Connie Hourigan (secretary/treasurer), Bruce Hagen, Rhonda Knutson, Arlene Walch. NOTES: Brandon Delvo spoke from the state office.
BOWMAN/SLOPE • Nov. 6 • Bowman Lodge BOARD: George Siverson (president), Terry Mrnak (VP), Mary Fischer (secretary, EPIC coach), Joy Kinsey (treasurer, EPIC educator), Leonard Fischer, Lauren Klewin. NOTES: NDFU Vice President Bob Kuylen gave an organizational update.
BARNES • Nov. 18 • Valley City Country BOARD: Robert Bruns (president), Jordan Svenningsen (VP), Jill Olson (secretary), Justin Sherlock (treasurer), Bradley McKay, Dwight McMillan, Tyler Van Bruggen (EPIC coach). NOTES: Jessica Haak gave an update from the state office.
BURLEIGH • Oct. 15 • Tumbleweed Bar & Steak House, Lincoln BOARD: Denise Brown (president), Arlene Olson (VP), Lois Sundquist (secretary-treasurer), Bill Kershaw, Marvin Dockter, Michaela Froseth (EPIC coach). NOTES: Tracey and RJ Miller presented on the fly-in. Dave Beck and Beck Hruby of Farmers Union Insurance gave an update on health insurance. Chelsey Jacobson spoke from the state office.
BILLINGS/GOLDEN VALLEY • Oct. 15 • Beach Community Center BOARD: David Ekre (president), Bobby Olstad (VP), Sherlene Lambert (secretary), Wendy Ekre (treasurer), Joseph Armbrust, Lana Safratowich, Orest Baranko, Barbara Olstad. NOTES: More than 50 people enjoyed a pig roast. Longtime president Joe Armbrust was given an award for years of service. Molly McLain presented from the state office. BOTTINEAU • Nov. 15 • Norway House, Bottineau BOARD: Kenneth Klebe (president), Craig Johnson (VP), Wanda Gravseth (secretary/ treasurer), Lyle Gravseth, Susan Steen, Tyler Neubauer. NOTES: Neubauer presented details on his participation in Grow to Lead and the trip to Peru. Amanda Olson spoke from the state office.
BURKE • Nov. 18 • 109 Steakhouse, Lignite BOARD: Allie Sagness (president), Kayo Grubb (VP), Shalene Nygaard (secretary), Lisa Aufforth (treasurer), Brandyn Ganskop, Steven Overlee, Keith Mogren, Harley Eckert (EPIC coach). NOTES: Amanda Olson presented from the state office. CASS • Dec. 2 • NDSU Alumni Center, Fargo BOARD: John Buchholz (president/VP), Kristi Brink (secretary/EPIC coach), Russell Brink (treasurer), Kevin Camas, Gene Albert, Lyle Bartholomay, Mark Nesemeier. NOTES: Mary Mertens gave an organizational update.
Kids won the choice of free camp registrations or NDFU’s children’s book, “Our Family Farm,” at the Burke County convention.
annual meetings
CAVALIER • Nov. 26 • Langdon Research Extension Center BOARD: Jon Iverson (president), David Lundeby (VP), Hans Reinhardt (secretary), Doris Hoffarth (treasurer), William Hardy, Terry Jacobson, Carissa Iverson (EPIC coach). NOTES: Mary Mertens spoke from the state office.
DICKEY • Nov. 19 • American Legion, Forbes BOARD: Thor Sand (president), Ryan Brokaw (VP), Darell Wall (secretary), Peter Kronberg, Trevor Hokana, Evan Merkel, Mark Bobbe, Pam Henningsen (EPIC coach). NOTES: Pam Henningsen and Trevor Hokana presented on the fly-in. Chelsey Jacobson gave an update from the state office. DIVIDE • Nov. 19 • Crosby Community Center BOARD: Devin Jacobson (president), Michael Nelson (VP), Sommer Nelson (secretary/treasurer), Ryan Nordstog, Mark Holm, Steve Dhuyvetter, Mark Knudson, Jessalyn Abt (EPIC coach). NOTES: FUI agents Amber Haugland and Lucas Schumacher gave an update on insurance policies. Amanda Olson presented from the state office. DUNN • Nov. 19 • Catholic Workman Hall, New Hradec BOARD: Shane Sickler (president), Gregory Bezdicek (VP), Richard Regeth (secretary), David Sickler (treasurer), Eugene Brown, Roque Kadrmas, Russ Stein, Alyssa Steiner (EPIC coach). NOTES: Molly McLain presented from the state office.
EDDY • Dec. 4 • Rockford Cafe, New Rockford BOARD: Austin Langley (president), Jerry Schuster (VP), Kathryn Fleming (secretary/ treasurer/EPIC coach), Casey Weber, Brent Helseth, Kent Myhre, David Fleming. NOTES: Molly McLain gave an organizational update. EMMONS • Dec. 5 • Linton, The Grill BOARD: Lori Schmidt (president, EPIC coach), Leonard Weichel (VP), Darius Aberle (secretary), Andrew Vetter (treasurer). NOTES: Molly McLain spoke from the state office. FOSTER • Oct. 29 • Pizza Ranch, Carrington BOARD: Charles Linderman (president), Darwin Topp (VP), Ellen Linderman (secretary/ treasurer), Tim Aljets, Rhonda Lura, Jim Holth. NOTES: Molly McLain gave an update from the state office. GRAND FORKS • Oct. 29 • Ag Country, Grand Forks BOARD: David Gorder (president), Logan Ferry (VP), Jeanna Smaaladen (secretary/treasurer), Jason Nelson, Frank Matejcek, Paul Sproule, Jill Johnson (EPIC coach). NOTES: Don Wick of the Red River Farm Network was the keynote speaker. Mary Mertens presented from the state office.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Diane Eslinger, the “Idiot on the Prairie,” entertains the Stutsman County convention.
The three candidates for Ward County Commission spoke to the Ward County convention.
Counties hold
GRANT • Nov. 18 • Carson Community Center BOARD: Greg Scholes (president), Linda Koepplin (VP, secretary, EPIC coach), Wes Niederman, Jeff Striegel, Eric Friesz. NOTES: Lance Boyer of Farmers Union Insurance gave a health insurance update. District 5 Director Wes Niederman gave an organizational update. HETTINGER • Nov. 25 • Mott Armory BOARD: Janice Ottmar (president), Curtis Wax (VP), Carol Herberholz (secretary/treasurer), David Witte, Anita Friedt, Randeen Schulz, Adam Greff, Nancy Nadvornik (EPIC coach). NOTES: Brandon Delvo spoke from the state office. KIDDER • Oct. 25 • Pettibone Community Center BOARD: Michelle Ziesch (president), Crystal Hotovec (VP), Judi Hintz (secretary/treasurer), Morgan Ziesch, Stacie Fettig (EPIC coach). NOTES: Mary Jensen presented from the state office. LAMOURE • Nov. 18 • LaMoure Civic Center BOARD: Ron Van Bruggen (president), Lynn Haro (VP), Josh Heinrich (secretary/treasuruer), Kevin Isakson, Mike Schlosser, Jordan Gackle, Connie Bitz, Carly Rott (EPIC coach). NOTES: NDFU President Mark Watne gave an organizational update. LOGAN • Nov. 27 • Downtowner, Napoleon BOARD: William Becker (president), Richard Marquart (VP), Geraldine Horner (secretary), Jack Horner (treasurer), Carmen Rath-Wald, Isadore Gross. NOTES: Chelsey Jacobson spoke from the state office.
MCHENRY • Oct. 29 • KC Hall, Drake BOARD: Nathan Watne (president), Clinton Gjellstad (VP), Judi Snyder (secretary/treasurer), Wade Howe, Ryan Blumhagen, April Marquart, Kellen Olson, Krystal Jo Watne (EPIC coach). NOTES: The county hosted a murder mystery themed dinner and costume party for all ages. Natasha and Dustin Volochenko were recognized as MCFU Farm Family of the Year. Amanda Martin gave an update from the state office. MCINTOSH • Nov. 20 • Wishek Armory BOARD: Brandon Meidinger (president), Carl Lindgren (VP), Teresa Thiery (secretary/treasurer), Robert Mosbrucker, Larry Schauer, Lori Blocker, Scot Schaunaman, DeLane Scherbenske, Fern Schauer (EPIC coach). NOTES: FUI agents Courtney Schauer and Kary Lindgren gave updates. Chelsey Jacobson presented from the state office. MCKENZIE • Oct. 23 • Watford City BOARD: Kim Klose (president), Josh Norby (VP/secretary/treasurer), Stephanie Scofield (EPIC coach). NOTES: Jason McKenney spoke from the state office. MCLEAN • Nov. 7 • American Legion, Turtle Lake BOARD: Wes Weible (president), Ronald Bloom (VP), Georgean Lick (secretary/treasurer), Richard Britton, Waldo Westrum, Roxann Bloom (EPIC coach). NOTES: Molly McLain gave an update from the state office.
Collin Sundquist is given a gift card for his years of service from president Roger Zetocha at the Sargent County convention. Colleen Sundquist was also honored.
At the Billings-Golden Valley convention, NDFU Vice President Bob Kuylen presents former president Joe Armbrust with an award honoring his years of service to Farmers Union.
annual meetings
MERCER • Oct. 30 • Beulah Civic Center BOARD: Michael Eslinger (president), Ralph Bieber (VP), Dawn Martin (secretary), John Smith (treasurer), Austin Jensen, Siggy Scheid (EPIC coach). NOTES: District 5 Director Wes Niederman gave an organizational update.
NELSON • Oct. 23 • Aneta Cafe BOARD: Beau Locken (president), Loren Swenson (VP), John Kelly (secretary/treasurer), Matt Locken, Randall Johnson, Sheila Rude, Hazel Rude (EPIC coach). NOTES: Pam Musland spoke from the state office. OLIVER • Nov. 15 • Golden Age Club, Center BOARD: Robert Schmidt (president), David Berger (VP), Debra Berger (secretary/treasurer), David Porsborg, Erin Huntimer, Darrell Schulte, Becky Dollinger (EPIC coach). NOTES: Molly McLain presented from the state office. PIERCE • Nov. 13 • Rugby Eagles Club BOARD: R Jay Paul (president), David Teigen (VP), Sheila Ostrem (secretary/treasurer), Andrew Fedje, John Fjellanger, Josh Stutrud, Becky Tofte (EPIC coach). NOTES: FUI agent Lewis Shock presented on health insurance. Amanda Olson gave an update from the state office. RAMSEY • Nov. 30 • Ranch Steakhouse, Devils Lake BOARD: Adam Leiphon (president), Dwight Noltimier (VP), Connie Hanson (secretary/ treasurer), Rudi Bloomquist, Evan Schoenfish, Terry Borstad, Daniel Webster, Andrea Johnson (EPIC coach). NOTES: Mary Mertens spoke from the state office.
RANSOM • Dec. 2 • Lunch Box, Fort Ransom BOARD: Daniel Spiekermeier (president), Paul Billing (VP), Cindy Carter (secretary/treasurer), Mike Schwab, Michael Bunn, Wallace Carlson, Larry Carter, Matt Lyons, Tyann Henderson (EPIC coach). NOTES: Jessica Haak gave an organizational update. RENVILLE • Nov. 13 • Prairie Bistro, Mohall BOARD: Jared Johnson (president), Troy Hedberg (VP), Norine Johnson (secretary/ treasurer), Ron Jensen, Brett Hefter, Scott Ness, Steven Olson, Stacey Johnson, Thurstan Johnson (EPIC coach). NOTES: Kayla Pulvermacher gave an update from the state office. RICHLAND • Nov. 4 • Pizza Ranch, Wahpeton BOARD: Carmen Mahler (president), Rodrick Lentz (VP), Diana Freese (secretary/treasurer), Walter Hardie, Gary Lee, Charles Prochnow, Perry Miller, Cassidy Ziesch (EPIC coach). NOTES: Brady Weisenberger and Dominic Noonan of Farmers Union Insurance gave an update on health care. Mary Mertens spoke from the state office. SARGENT • Nov. 18 • St. Mary’s Catholic Parish Center, Forman BOARD: Roger Zetocha (president), Kevin Throener (VP), Deborah Banish (secretarytreasurer), Bernard Planteen, Wyatt Sundquist, Stephan Hogness. NOTES: Collin and Colleen Sundquist were honored for their 40-plus years on the board. Mary Mertens presented from the state office.
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Counties hold annual meetings SHERIDAN • Nov. 20 • Random Roadhouse, McClusky BOARD: Melissa Pfennig (president), Alexander Roubal (VP), Ruth Roubal (secretary), Eden McLeod (treasurer), Melissa Axt (EPIC coach). NOTES: The most attended county convention in recent history. Local musician Garret Dockter sang for the crowd. Amanda Olson gave an organizational update. SIOUX • Oct. 26 • Selfridge High School BOARD: Chad Tecca (president), Patrick Becker (VP), Sherry Becker (secretary/treasurer), Larry Nagel, Victor Kraft, Wendy Tecca, Mary Jean Hunter (EPIC coach). NOTES: During the meeting, a Halloween party was held for the kids in the gym. Chelsey Jacobson spoke from the state office. STARK • Nov. 18 • Gate City Bank, Dickinson BOARD: Deran Lefor (president), Dean Baar (VP), Justin Kuylen (secretary), Marvin Lantz (treasurer), Brian Scholz, Bob Kuylen, Sarah Ewoniuk (EPIC coach). NOTES: Bob Kuylen gave an organizational update. STUTSMAN • Nov. 8 • NDFU Conference Center BOARD: Michael Huebner (president), Owen Olson (VP), Pauline Roeske (secretary/treasurer), David Gasal, JP Lueck, Dustin Lien, Lori Carlson, Ashley Vinje (EPIC coach). NOTES: Jessica Haak spoke from the state office. TOWNER • Nov. 4 • Bisbee Senior Center BOARD: Myron Jacobsen (president), Roger Held (VP), Laura Dease (secretary/treasurer/EPIC coach), Adam Held, Steven Peters. NOTES: Idiot on the Prairie provided the entertainment with about 50 in attendance. Mary Jensen presented from the state office. TRAILL • Nov. 27 • Paula’s Steakhouse, Mayville BOARD: Jacob Amb (president), James Aarsvold (VP), Kipp Knudson (secretary), Kevin Kyllo (treasurer), Roy Nelson (director), Cayle Fossum (EPIC coach). NOTES: Brandon Delvo gave an update from the state office. WALSH • Nov. 2 • Park River Legion BOARD: Scott Udby (president), Faith Nord (secretary), Kathy Houser (EPIC coach).
Don Wick of the Red River Farm Network spoke at the Grand Forks County convention.
NOTES: County commission candidates spoke. Mary Mertens gave an update from the state office. WARD • Oct. 28 • North Central Extension Center, Minot BOARD: Shannon Stafslien (president), Bob Finken (VP), Holly Sobieck (secretary), Deanna Ness (treasurer), Luke Erickson, Spencer King, Debbie Hansen, Karly Porter (EPIC coach). NOTES: Three candidates for Ward County Commission spoke to the convention. Chris Aarhus gave an organizational update. WELLS • Nov. 3 • Fessenden School Old Gym BOARD: Patricia Patrie (president), Lowell Larson (VP), Alice Wiesz (secretary/treasurer), Dynella Schmitz, Jean Hauser, Darla Hagen, Michelle Kukowski (EPIC coach). NOTES: Mark Watne gave an organizational update. WILLIAMS • Nov. 1 • Ernie French Research Center, Williston BOARD: Kurt Andre (president), Dennis Stromme (VP), Alvina Skogen (secretary/EPIC coach), John Skogen (treasurer), Syvert Mahlen. NOTES: Brandon Delvo spoke from the state office.
NDSC plans ag training at convention The North Dakota Safety Council’s annual conference is the region’s largest, most innovative safety event. With 100plus hands-on and classroom courses scheduled over the five-day event, there is something for every industry – including agriculture. If you are looking for impactful safety, communication, or leadership training, make plans now to attend. Register today and choose from a full lineup of topics that will improve safety at your business. Courses include Multicultural Considerations in Safety Communications & Training; Preparedness..Are You Ready to Deal with a Crisis?; and Critical Skills for Safety Professional Success. Plan now to attend Feb. 18-22 at the Bismarck Event Center! For full course descriptions, pricing details or to register, visit www.ndsc.org. Questions? Call (800) 932-8890.
AG TRAINING OFFERED
• Common Hazards In Grain Handling Facilities
• Fatigue: What Is It And What Can We Do About It? • Incident Investigation • Grain Bin Safety and Rescue • DOT Compliance • Industrial Ventilation • Reasonable Suspicion for Supervisors • Electrical Safety Program Required Contents • Medical Marijuana and Your Workplace Drug Testing Policy • Fall Hazard Surveys and Rescue PrePlans • Opioid Use: What We Need to Know
CONGRESS PASSES FARM BILL
After the agriculture committee leadership came to an agreement in principle on the 2018 Farm Bill, both the House and Senate hurried to pass the negotiated legislation before the end of the session. All 807 pages of the bill’s finalized text were released nearly 70 days after the previous farm bill expired, to the relief of National Farmers Union (NFU) and many other farm organizations. Neither chamber wasted time voting on the bill; the Senate passed it 87-13 the following day, while the House followed suit on the day after that, with 369 voting in favor and 47 against. The bill was signed by President Donald Trump before Christmas. Many of the provisions included in the bill are victories for Farmers Union members. For one, it includes some modest changes to the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) programs that would allow farmers to update their payment yields based on their 2013-2017 average yields per acre. Additionally, the dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) will be replaced by Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC), which is more effective and attractive to smaller-scale producers. These changes to the farm safety net are an important first step in providing meaningful relief to family farmers, and NFU will continue to advocate for further improvements. NFU was also pleased to see that conservation programs were left mostly intact, with the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) kept as two distinct programs. Overall funding across conservation
programs will be maintained, and the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acreage will be boosted. A number of lesser-known but important “orphan programs” were also reauthorized and funded. Many of these support the development of local and diverse markets, such as the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) and the National Organic Certification Cost-Share Program (NOCCSP). In addition, the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network was reauthorized. Though the program has never before received funding, NFU is optimistic that it will receive full funding of $10 million in the next appropriations cycle to provide mental health services to farmers, ranchers and farmworkers. What isn’t included in the bill is perhaps just as important as what is. On a positive note, negotiators did not incorporate stricter work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a provision that would have eliminated benefits for an estimated one million households. However, the bill also does not contain Sen. Chuck Grassley’s (R-Iowa) proposal to strengthen payment limitations for Title I programs. NFU supported the payment limits, as they would have ensured that federal commodity payments are directed only to farmers actively participating in both the labor and risk of a farm operation. On the whole, the passage of this bipartisan farm bill is welcome news in farm country, which has been experiencing its weakest economic conditions in more than three decades. Once signed by President Trump, the bill will offer some certainty and support to family farmers and
ranchers enduring struggling markets, oversupply and trade volatility.
EPA RVOs disappoint
At the tail end of November, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized next year’s renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The rule will increase total volumes 3 percent over 2018 levels, from 19.29 billion gallons to 19.92 billion gallons. The proposal maintains the current 15-million gallon target for corn ethanol and increases cellulosic and advanced biofuel requirements by 130 million gallons and 630 million gallons, respectively. The proposal does not address the misappropriation of “hardship waivers.”
Founding Farmers
Hot Chocolate Winter has made its way to our nation’s capital, and we’re thinking of our friends at the North Dakota Farmers Union, knowing that the winter is even longer, and colder, in North Dakota. To help combat the cold, here’s one of our guest favorites: the thick, creamy, chocolaty goodness of our Founding Farmers Hot Chocolate.
Ingredients (serves 4) • 2½ oz milk chocolate • 2½ oz 64% bitter chocolate • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar • 2½ tablespoons cocoa powder • 6½ fl oz filtered water • 19 fl oz whole milk, cold • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Instructions Combine chocolate in medium bowl. In a separate medium bowl, combine cocoa powder and sugar. Set aside. Bring water to a boil; pour
WE’RE A FAMILY OF COMPANIES. AND FAMILY IS ALWAYS THERE FOR YOU.
over chocolate. Combine all with a small immersion blender until smooth. Set aside. Slowly add milk to the cocoa powder and sugar mix, then pour cocoa and milk mix into a pot; simmer until heated through. Remove from heat; add chocolate and vanilla. Blend with immersion blender. Once thoroughly blended, strain into separate serving container or directly into mugs. Serve immediately. Founding Farmers Hot Chocolate can be cooled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat and enjoy.
WWW.FUILLC.COM
CLASSIFIEDS
Ads must be submitted through the online form at www.ndfu.org. Click “Classifieds” at the very bottom of ndfu.org and follow the instructions. Ads must be re-submitted each month. No exceptions! Deadline is the 15th of every month. Limit 75 words. MEMBERSHIP DUES MUST BE CURRENT!
FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE VERMEER 605N BALER, only 2433 bales made, like new, can text or email pics. 701206-0082, Marcus Fischer, Bowman. SPRAYER, 60 foot 3 point, 400 gal tank, newer control; 19 foot IHC #55 Chisel plow; Titan stock trailer 80 in x 20 ft, real nice; 2 foremost head gates, one manual and one self catch; John Deere 7800 front wheel assist, new tires on front. No longer need these items; 37 foot IHC # 45 field cultivator; 20 ft 1020 flex head IHC. 701799-4839, Curtis Bunn, Sheldon. SEMI-VAN WATER TRAILER for crop spraying; Semi van storage trailers for excess farm stuff etc.; Loading ramp; A 20 ft and 40 ft storage container. 701-4745780, Richard Rydell, Fairmount. FOR SALVAGE, D6 Cat and Dozer $3000; Tox-O-Wix Model 370 Batch Dryer; 3 rock forks for loader from $600 to $2,500; Quick attachment bucket adapter for 3600, dual loader $125; 3 Bar 5 ft Melroe harrow sections $50 each; Hudson tank heater for stock tank $125; Viking Hammer Mill $250; 2 hydraulic breakaways and valves for 4630 John Deere Tractor $500 each; 701373-5480, Donald Jorissen, Valley City. NEW HOLLAND SP 365F, self propelled sprayer, 1600 gal. stainless tank, 120 ft boom triple nozzle, foam marker, 4-380/90 R 50, 4-650/75 R 38, Trimble Auto Pilot, FM 750 monitor, field IQ rate, section control, Raven Ultra Glide 5 sensor, 100 GPM flow meter, touch down wheels, camera, one owner, 1,265.2 hrs. 701-6932371, Rick Frueh, Martin. FARMHAND PTO PUMP; 4 wheel trailer; 15-30 McCormick tractor; 2 cream separators; Leon #3100 HD 10 ft 3-Point Blade; Late Model Super M; 2 grain fanning mills; 12 ft Kirschmann drill, New Tire LT245-75R-17 Ld Range E; Two units of four stainless steel bucket/pans, to feed grain/salt or minerals to cattle, mounted to a metal frame that mounts on the wall of the barn. Very sturdy. Email: larryn@ westriv.com. 701-597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields. BUCKETS, 8 ft MDS heavy duty rock/ brush/scrap buckets; 7 ft & 8 ft MDS Euroglobal buckets; 8 ft MDS-JD Classic Tach bucket w/5-tine grapple; 8 ft MDS 148-158 bucket w/JD grapple; 7 ft bucket w/Koyker quick tach; 9 ft MDS bucket w/5-tine MDS grapple w/Koyker quick tach; MDS attachment adapter-skid steer quick-tach to Euro-Global; MDS rock badger; 10 ft MDS heavy snow pusher w/skid steer attach. 3-skidsteer 5000 pound pallet forks (1 hydraulic adjust). 709-0103, Allen Wald, Edgeley.
WANTED TRACTORS, IH 806, 1206, 856, 1256, 1456, 1066, 1466, 5288, 5488; JD 5010, 5020, 6030; MM 1050, 1355; Oliver 1960s and newer; Allis D21, 210, 220, and others, running or not. 701-629-1721, Jerry Lumley, Stanley.
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER FREEZER, 1952, still works fine, $50 obo. 701-8405117, Lee Fraase, Buffalo. MCKEE SNO-LANDER SNOWBLOWER. Model 520, serial #2163, 6 ft cut, 3 pt hitch, 540 pto, 35-60 hp, top rotating chute, 2 stage. Leave message if no answer. 701839-4666. Samuel Higgins, Minot. TIRES, 30.5L- 32 Goodyear combine tires and 10 hole rims off JD 9750. Also have short ladder extension and rails. Make offer. 701-321-5711, John Kempf, Ashley. WELL PUMPJACK, model 6RS Peerless, $25; 3-pt. hoist, fits category one 3-pt. $75. 701-693-2371, Rick Frueh, Martin. PROPANE TANKS, two 1,000 pounds, $40 each; Little Joe electric smoker $10; 10 in table saw craftsman castiron, $100; 2 slot machines newer style; 280 rds M1 garande ammo in clips and cardboard sleeves $280; Winchester Mod 12 shotgun 12 ga 2 3/4 in factory vent rib; SKB 12 ga auto 3 in mag; Browing BSS 12 ga auto eject single trigger 2 3/4 in. 701-775-0031, Gary Nelson, Grand Forks. PARLOR WOOD STOVES, good condition; Bridles and harnesses; Lions hy 20 broiler, excellent condition; Two real nice school desks; Two 300 gallon fuel tanks. 701-771-8653, Kenny Heilman, Rugby. TIRES, 1-30.5x32x12ply Titan @ 80%; 1-20.8R42 Goodyear DT-710@95%; 2-new 18.4x34x8ply; 2-new Titan 18.4x38x8ply; 2- 28Lx26x12ply @90%; 2- 16.9x26x10ply FWD’s @70%; 1 new 13.6R20 Belarus FWD; 2-new Goodyear 520/85 R42; 4620/70R42@75%; 2- new 14.9x24x8ply & 2-new16.9x24x8 ply (combine rears); 4-Titan 20.8R38@60%; 8-new 285/75R24.5x16ply steer or trailer tires; many others. 701-709-0103, Allen Wald, Edgeley. KING COAL FURNACE, make offer. 701421-5894, Daryl Uran, New Town.
WANTED JOHN DEERE CHAINSAW, 55v or 60v, made by Echo. Running or for parts. 701566-4605, Stephen Loe, Moorhead. RIMS, two 15-inch implement rims, fourinch hole, five-bolt hole; Two good used tires, 670-15 implement tires. 701-7718653, Kenny Heilman, Rugby. OLD STUFF, Westland, Standard, Texaco or Mobil Gas Station advertising signs or oil cans, Old license plates, old animal traps, anvils, ND tokens, Indian artifacts, arrowheads, old carnival glass, or anything else that is old and interesting. 701-2205746, Val Ganje, Bismarck. TRAILER, enclosed semi towable single/ dual axel trailer. Bi-folding doors rear doors, price negotiable based on condition. Wanting to purchase in state of ND. Will pay cash. Also seeking to purchase a used calf table, in good working condition. Our farm is located in Harvey but willing to travel statewide. 701-658-9108, Douglas Neuharth, Hurdsfield. PRAIRIE DOG HUNTERS, to hunt on land, make reservations now. Email: larryn@ westriv.com. 701-597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields.
VEHICLES FOR SALE MATTRACKS 150-M1A2, set of 4 mattracks with new tracks, low miles, like new condition. Have brackets to mount on 2008 Chevy 2500 HD pickup. $22,000 obo. 701-321-5711, John Kempf, Ashley.
WANTED 1949-55 CHEVY HALF-TON PICKUP. Need not run and box not important. 701974-3644, Loren Myran, Taylor.
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE HOUSE IN FESSENDEN, 2 bdrm, 1 bath, basement unfinished, lots of possibilities for more living area, attached garage and back porch plus patio area, Alley in back, apple tree, asking $65k. 218-639-3583, Diane Nelson, Fessenden.
WANTED 10-25 ACRES of good wooded deer habitat for hunting, prefer within 90 miles of Bismarck. 701-391-8874, Keith Telenga, Bismarck.
Regional officer trainings All meetings run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Jan. 19
Minot • Grand International Hotel Jamestown • NDFU State Office
Jan. 26
Dickinson • Ramada Grand Dakota Grand Forks • Ag Country
Feb. 2
Bismarck • Tri-Energy office
Around the state FUI agent Neil Johnston donated $750 to the Wimbledon child care center. Receiving the check is board member Krista Amann.
Farmers Union Insurance donated $1,000 to Junior Achievement, which helps foster life skills in students K-12.
Jeff Andersen and Tom Sanders of Farmers Union Insurance donated $1,000 to the Jamestown Cancer Support Group, which distributes gas cards to cancer patients to help defray transportation costs. Pictured, from left, is agent Jeff Andersen, Sandy Wilhelm, agent Tom Sanders, Carol Stahlhut, Mary Klundt, Cindy Willey, Kim Weyer and Barb Togstad.
Farmers Union Insurance donated $1,500 for renovations to Mandan Memorial Ballpark.
PROUD SPONSOR OF THE NDFU STATE CONVENTION! Life is better with community!
myfccu.com
Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division
PERIODICALS – POSTAGE PAID
1415 12th Ave SE PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402
We Know Farming
This year’s crop… It’s your livelihood for today and tomorrow. Planning every last detail to get the most from your crop should include multi-peril crop insurance. We can help. We know farming. Home Auto Crop Life Health Business Farm & Ranch
• • • • • • •
Not all products underwritten by Farmers Union Insurance.
For more information, email us at info@fumic.com or visit www.fumic.com
S I M P LY D I F F E R E N T