Union Farmer - November 2022

FARME R UNION

www.ndfu.org

100 YEARS North Dakota Mill and Elevator celebrates a century of creating demand, producing high-quality flour

NOVEMBER 2022

Visit nfu.org to learn more UNITED TO GROW FAMILY AGRICULTURE

The Farmer’s Share Did you know that farmers and ranchers receive only 14.3* 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.

Bacon

Retail: Farmer:

$6.99 $1.16

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

$9.99 $2.27

$3.49 $0.10

Retail: Farmer:

$3.99 $0.55

1 gallon, fat free

1 lb.

$2.99 $0.38

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

$4.19 $0.20

Beer

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

6-pack cans

$3.99 $1.94

Flour

King Arthur, 5 lbs.

$3.99 $1.94

Retail: Farmer:

$4.49 $0.71

1 lb.

Retail: Farmer:

Fresh Potatos

Soda

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

Russet, 5 lbs.

$1.25 $0.72

$6.49 $2.82

@NFUDC

UNION FARMER MAGAZINE

/nationalfarmersunion

$12.98 $1.16

2 liters

Farmer’s share derived from USDA, NASS “Agricultural Prices,” 2021. | Prices based on May 2022 data.

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

/nationalfarmersunion

$11.99 $0.07

Boneless Ham

Fresh Apples 1 lb.

$4.39 $2.09

Fresh Carrots 5 lbs.

1 dozen

Milk

Lettuce

2 lbs.

Eggs

1 lb.

18 oz. box

Retail: Farmer:

Bread

Tomatoes

Corn Cereal

Retail: Farmer:

Top Sirloin Steak 1 lb.

1 lb.

$1.19 $0.10

October 11, 2022 nfu.org/topics/blog

FIND US ON THE WEB:

National Farmers Union | 20 F Street NW, Suite 300 | Washington, DC 20001 Volume 69 • Number 11 | info@nfudc.org www.ndfu.org P: (202) 554-1600 | F: (202) 554-1654 | www.NFU.org The UNION FARMER is published monthly

by North Dakota Farmers Union at 1415 12th Ave SE, Jamestown, ND 58401.

EDITOR: Chris Aarhus 800-366-NDFU 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: 37,658 • USPS 016-211

Read the Union Farmer online

http://ndfu.org/news/union-farmer

CONNECT WITH US: North Dakota Farmers Union @NDFarmersUnion @NDFarmersUnion

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: President: Mark Watne • Vice President: Bob Kuylen • Secretary: Wes Niederman Treasurer: Ronda Throener • Bob Finken; Jon Iverson; Shane Sickler; Tyler Stafslien; Michelle Ziesch.

2 • November 2022 • Union Farmer

Big ideas needed for agriculture Last month, I attended the Great Plains Empower Energy Conference. It was a good event, showcasing all types of energy produced in North Dakota, with nearly 250 people in attendance, including elected officials, interested organizations, the press and public.

I have attended this conference in the past and was intrigued by the change in dialogue. The focus was still heavy on coal and crude oil but renewable fuels – wind, solar, carbon storage and carbon capture – were highly discussed. The overall message was focused on the need for affordable and reliable electricity. North Dakota, as an energy state, can and will be a solution for the energy needs of this country, now and in the future.

As president of NDFU, I attend several conferences annually and participate in educational opportunities. As I participated in the energy conference, I thought, “Why do we, in agriculture, fail to focus our attention on the vast opportunities we have to provide the world with food, like the dialogue surrounding energy?”

Agriculture is just as important or maybe more important than energy to North Dakota’s economy.

Agriculture has been a huge asset to our state from inception. It has provided countless benefits to our economy and opportunities for success from farms to cities. Our ability to maintain this success is vested in meeting market demands, adding additional value to the products we produce, adapting to advancing change, and creating sustainability.

Just as the market for energy is changing and demand for renewables and less emissions is necessary, agriculture will have to play a role in meeting new demands of our customers. I understand that we want things to stay the same but that is not how the world works. To be a state that simply produces commodities, and then exports it to another country or region that is willing to buy from the cheapest suppler, is not sustainable. This “no change strategy” forces us to simply become the lowest-cost producer and miss value-added opportunities the market creates.

Watching supply chain challenges due to

COVID, our reliance on foreign nations for essentials and monopolistic practices that many companies in food production utilize, it is obvious that the market is demanding a different methodology for food production. Knowing how food is produced, buying local, buying from sustainable sources, and supporting family farm agriculture are new market considerations. I believe we will need to adapt as we should not ignore market forces.

It may be time that we host an “empower agriculture summit” that brings farmers, industry and politicians together. Not to discuss the past, but what are the opportunities we see in the future? How do we add value that rewards our family farmers and ranchers in the current market and keeps money in the state and in our rural communities?

If we pattern it after the energy conference, we will have all the players in the room engaged in dialogue about how to invest in ourselves to make agriculture more profitable and a greater asset to North Dakota. It will take some investments to bring processing to North Dakota but becoming a state that exports higher value products rather than raw commodities is a great start. Agriculture deserves the same time and investment as energy to make it successful and sustainable in the future.

NDSC proudly introduces our new

Farm safety is family safety.

Find out more about it at

ndsc.org/ag-safety-training-program

NDFU.org • November 2022 • 3

POLICY HOPPER FROM NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

NDFU opposes term limits Last month, North Dakota Farmers Union (NDFU) and North Dakota Farm Bureau (NDFB) joined forces to oppose Measure 1, a ballot measure to establish term limits for state legislators and the governor. In a joint press release, NDFU President Mark Watne cited longstanding policy that opposes term limits, “because they are a limitation on the rights of citizens to choose and elect their public officials.”

The groups also raised concerns that the measure would shift power to the executive branch and professional lobbyists.

Background on Measure 1

Measure 1 would amend the North Dakota constitution to limit how long state legislators and the governor can serve. The measure would limit the governor to serving two terms. It would limit state legislators to serving eight years in the state House and eight years in the state Senate.

Importantly, the measure would not place term limits on members of Congress, including North Dakota’s federal delegation.

Measure 1 proposes one of the strictest term limit laws in the country. The measure would make North Dakota one of only six states with lifetime limits on legislative branch service. Most states with term limits, including neighboring Montana and South Dakota, limit the consecutive terms a legislator can serve but do not create a lifetime limit.

North Dakota’s Citizen Legislature

North Dakota has one of the truest citizen legislatures in the country. North Dakota is one of just four states in which the legislature meets only once every two years. Of those four states, North Dakota’s biennial session is the shortest, at just 80 days. Annual compensation for North Dakota legislators is also among the lowest in the country.

The structure of North Dakota’s citizen legislature already contributes to a strong rate of natural turnover. According to analysis from NDFB, 27 of the 47 Senate seats will have turned over between 2015 and this election. Of the 94 House seats, half will be in different hands after this fall.

4 • November 2022 • Union Farmer

Effects of Term Limits

One of the clearest consequences of legislative term limits is a shift of power to the executive branch. Studies consistently show that term limits clearly increase the power of the executive branch relative to the legislature. The shift in power notably weakens legislatures’ ability to negotiate with the executive branch on state budgets.

Unlike the part-time legislature, positions in the executive branch are full-time positions, most of which are not directly responsible to voters.

Equally as troubling is that term limits can cause legislators to be less devoted to good policymaking. In repeated surveys, legislators in term-limit states reported spending less time communicating with constituents than in states without term limits. Term limits also reduce incentives for legislators to invest time and resources into policy decisions.

Conclusion

Farmers Union and Farm Bureau agree: Measure 1 is not the right move for North Dakota. Term limits would shift more power to the executive branch and lower the quality of our laws. We urge you to keep power in the hands of the people. Vote no on Measure 1.

North Dakota Farmers Union (2021). 2022 NDFU Policy and Action. Retrieved from https://ndfu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/2022-PA.pdf.

Ballotpedia (2022). State Legislatures with Term Limits. Retrieved from https:// ballotpedia.org/State_legislatures_with_term_limits.

National Conference of State Legislatures (2021, July 1). Legislative Session Length.

Retrieved from https://www.ncsl.org/research/about-state-legislatures/legislativesession-length.aspx.

National Conference of State Legislatures (2021, July 12). 2022 Legislator Compensation. Retrieved from https://www.ncsl.org/research/about-statelegislatures/2022-legislator-compensation.aspx.

North Dakota Farm Bureau (2022). Term Limits FAQ. Retrieved from https://www. ndfb.org/image/cache/Term_Limits_FAQ.pdf.

Cattle market bills in the mix Two of NFU’s top Fairness for Farmers priorities – the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act and the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act – could be part of legislative efforts before the end of the 117th Congress. Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT) recently reiterated his hope the bills would pass this year, with the most likely timeframe being after the 2022 Midterms.

Both Sen. Tester and Sen. Chuck Grassley (RIA) have said Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) promised them a vote on the measures during the 117th Congress. During the Fall Legislative Fly-In, NFU members emphatically encouraged lawmakers to support these crucial pieces of legislation and get them across the finish line.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott (D-GA) has also introduced the Small Family Farmer and Rancher Relief Act, a different bill that would direct financial assistance, reduce risk management costs, and boost new marketing opportunities for very small-scale (less than 100 marketed animals annually) cattle producers.

New PSA rulemaking, collaboration In late September, at a meeting of the White House Competition Council, President Biden announced the latest Packers and Stockyards Act (PSA) rule. The President also announced the availability of funding for state attorneys general to partner with USDA on competition issues.

As USDA continues its work to strengthen the PSA, it announced the “Inclusive Competition

and Market Integrity” proposed rule – the second of three proposed rules – which it expects to release soon. The proposed rule is expected to amend or update the PSA as follows: • Revise regulations under the PSA by prohibiting certain prejudices and disadvantages against covered producers in the livestock, meat and poultry markets.

• Prohibit retaliatory practices that interfere with lawful communications, assertion of rights, and participation in associations, among other protected activities—such as retaliating against a farmer or rancher for blowing the whistle on price-fixing.

• Identify unlawfully deceptive practices that violate the PSA with respect to contract formation, contract performance, contract termination and contract refusal.

In addition to announcing the forthcoming PSA proposed rule, USDA announced it would continue efforts to ramp up enforcement of competition and antitrust laws by challenging state attorneys general to partner with USDA on competition issues in food and agriculture by using up to $15 million in funds from the Consolidated Appropriations Act. USDA noted that “this initiative will improve state AG capacity to conduct on-the-ground investigations of competition issues, enhance coordination between federal and state agriculture and competition enforcement authorities, create new and more independent research programs, and ultimately result in more rigorous enforcement of the competition laws.”

6 • October 2022 • Union Farmer

100 years in the books North Dakota Mill hosts public tours in celebration of processing North Dakota grain for the last century

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

The ways in which business is conducted has changed dramatically in the past 100 years.

But for the North Dakota Mill, the mission has stayed the same.

“To create additional demand for North Dakota farmers, to provide a profit to the state and conduct our business with integrity,” said Vance Taylor, president and CEO. “We do that by providing high quality flour, starting with some of the best wheat and durum in the world, sourced from North Dakota farmers.

And we strive to deliver that with superior customer service.”

The state mill celebrated its 100th anniversary on Oct. 20, with employee-led public tours through the Grand Forks-based facility. The day was capped by a banquet and ceremony that featured influential speakers from around the state.

The mill — with its roots in populism led by the Nonpartisan League during the era of World War I — provided farmers a way to bypass the gouging grain trade monopolies in Minneapolis and Chicago.

Today, the state mill grinds 140,000 bushels of spring wheat and produces 6 million pounds of flour per day with 10 different milling units, utilizing 156 employees.

“We have very dedicated hard-working employees,” Taylor said, “and they kept the plant running through the pandemic and all of its issues.”

The mill accepts grain from mostly the northeast corner of the state, stretching all the

way to Rugby and “mostly north of Highway 2.”

“We do take wheat from all across the state at different times,” Taylor added.

One of the partners of the state mill is the Dakota Pride Cooperative, which is a community of North Dakota producers who grow a specific commodity for the state mill.

“That co-op provides hard white spring wheat that we need to service a set of customers,” he said.

Taylor said most of the flour that leaves the state mill heads to the country’s population centers.

“Most of our shipments are long distance by rail up and down the East Coast,” said Taylor, in his 22nd year. “New York City is our biggest market and has been for a long time, going back to the 1980s.”

Looking forward, Taylor sees a new storage facility currently being constructed as a way to provide the mill with more flexibility. It’s scheduled to finish in February 2024.

“It’ll allow us to produce and pelletize mill feed when we want to versus when we are forced to by a lack of storage room,” he said.

“It’ll get us through the weekends.”

Taylor emphasized the importance of the support the mill receives from all of its stakeholders.

“In general, we receive strong support from producers, elevators and our state and local governments, and our customers and vendors as well,” Taylor said. “We try to create partnerships. That’s served us well over the years. We have good relationships.”

NDFU.org • November 2022 • 7

A history of ND’s state mill

The following article is from the State Historical Society of North Dakota. It has been edited for clarity and length.

The movement for creation of a publicly owned mill and elevator system in North Dakota had its roots in populism and was later championed by progressives and the Nonpartisan League. Actual creation of the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association was the result of a long battle waged by farmers and progressives in an attempt to break the grain trade monopoly and have some control over pricing and grading of

grain.

In the 1915 Legislative session, a bill authorizing construction of a state terminal elevator was defeated. The North Dakota Union of the American Society of Equity demonstrated for passage of the bill and was enraged by its defeat. The resulting frustration and anger contributed to the organization of the Farmer’s Non-partisan Political League, soon renamed the Nonpartisan League (NPL), and the political rise of Arthur C. Townley.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

Travis Devlin, director of milling for the North Dakota Mill, leads a public tour through the receiving area.

COVER PHOTO: Devlin explains how the rollers crush grain into flour.

NDFU.org • November 2022 • 9

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Taking on the state-owned elevator and other farm issues, Townley and others quickly organized the Nonpartisan League and began recruitment in 1915.

Membership and political power of the League was great enough in 1916 to put League candidate Lynn J. Frazier in the governor’s chair and to capture control of the House of Representatives. A bill creating a state mill was, however, vetoed

by Governor Frazier in 1917.

In the 1918 elections, the Nonpartisan League captured a majority in both houses of the State Legislature and retained Frazier for another term, thus gaining control of the state government. With approval of several key constitutional amendments by voters, the Nonpartisan League was ready to reform state government and create a state mill and elevator system.

The North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association was established in 1919 and was a key element in the Nonpartisan League program of state-owned industries. Legislation creating the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association was far reaching, authorizing construction of “a system of warehouses, elevators, flour mills, and factories” in the state.

The Industrial Commission, consisting of the governor, attorney general, and the commissioner of agriculture and labor, was created in the 1919 session, governed the Mill and Elevator Association, and made all decisions concerning the Mill’s location, policies and regulations. All property and equipment acquired by the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association was to be held in the name of the State of North Dakota.

The North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association bought a small flour mill in Drake, North Dakota, in 1919. The flour mill was unprofitable and was closed in 1924 and sold in 1931. The Industrial Commission also selected Grand Forks as the site of a state mill and elevator in 1919. Construction stalled late in 1920 due to lack of funds. Disappointment over progress on mill construction and opposition to the Nonpartisan League, the League program, and League state officials resulted in a successful recall election in 1921, removing Gov. Lynn CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 10 • November 2022 • Union Farmer

Durum wheat passes through on its way to the roller on the roller mill floor.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Grain is separated from the air that’s used to elevate the product all the way to the sixth floor.

BOTTOM LEFT: After the separation, the product drops into sifters shown behind Devlin. In his hand are the particles that have been separated.

Work continues on a new storage facility being built at the North Dakota Mill in Grand Forks.

The facility will allow the state mill more flexibility and is set to open in 2024.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

Frazier, Attorney General William Lemke and Commissioner of Agriculture John Hagen.

However, League industries, including the Bank of North Dakota, the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association, and the State Hail Insurance System survived the decline of the Nonpartisan League.

Construction of the State Mill and Elevator commenced again in 1922 and was opened by the end of the year. Due to mismanagement and political machinations, the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association lost money through the 1920s and the early 1930s. However, by the late 1930s the State Mill and Elevator was operating in the black. Despite eventual profitability, the Nonpartisan League vision of a statewide “system of warehouses, elevators, flour mills, and factories” was not realized.

Control over the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association was contested during the 1920s and 1930s. After the decline of the 12 • November 2022 • Union Farmer

Nonpartisan League, control over the State Mill and Elevator passed from the Industrial Commission to a Board of Managers in 1923; to the Governor in 1925; to the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Commission in 1931; and back to the Industrial Commission in 1933, which is where it resides today.

Opposition has shadowed the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association throughout its history. Bills abolishing the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association have been introduced in the State Legislature as recently as 1967. Perhaps the greatest threat to the existence of the State Mill and Elevator in the post-Nonpartisan League years has been fires at the mill. Disastrous fires in 1969 and 1970 caused the State Mill and Elevator to cease operations for 18 months. After rebuilding, the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association resumed operations.

Over the years, one of the best known products of the North Dakota Mill and Elevator Association has been “Dakota Maid” brand flour.

JOIN US!

Win this zero-turn mower at state convention!

Must be 18 years old and present to win. Winner is responsible for transport and taxes. No purchase necessary. Must be NDFU member and ND resident. See NDFU.org for details. Must attend state convention to receive your free drawing entry.

Become a convention delegate and earn an “extra” chance to win!

Great prizes for all ages!

• Apple MacBook laptop (ages 15-17) • Apple iPads (6-14)

• Case 12-volt tractor & trailer (6 and under)

Join NDFU at our 2022 state convention as we give away this 2022 Simplicity Cobalt 61” zero-turn mower Dec. 9-10 at the Bismarck Event Center

KEEP READING FOR STATE CONVENTION INFORMATION!

NDFU.org • November 2022 • 13

Register for convention

N

orth Dakota Farmers Union members are invited to attend the state convention set for Dec. 9-10 at the Bismarck Event Center.

• Visit membership.ndfu.org and enter email or membership number found on your member card or the address label from the Union Farmer.

• Enter password. Click “Forgot Your Password?” if unknown and a password will be sent to your email. If you have not registered an email address with NDFU, call 1-800-366-8331 to have your member number and password issued to you.

• Once inside the member portal, click “Enroll” in the right corner of the state convention box that is listed below your name, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

Hours for the daycare are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday. On Saturday, the hours are 8 a.m to 4:30 p.m. The last day to register for daycare is Dec. 1. Contact Jessica Haak at 701-952-0110 for more information.

can’t

ndfu

The first 100 people to register online through the portal will receive a free t-shirt of NDFU’s upcoming campaign: “Can’t NDFU without U.” Don’t miss out!

Find your membership number on the back of the Union Farmer or on your membership card.

P-10 P44 - 38000 **********MIXED ADC 50000 AP 100000 MEMBERSHIP # 1415 12th Ave SE PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402

JOHN DOE 100 Farmers Union Way Any town, ND 00000-0000

PERIODICALS

Early-bird registration Register online to expedite the process. Pre-registration is encouraged to help determine food and staffing needs. Early-bird registration closes on Dec. 1.

EARLY DEC. 2 Convention $50 $70 Youth activities $30 $50 Daycare $20 ­—

SIGN UP ONLINE TODAY!

There are no exchanges or refunds. Call 1-800-366-8331 or email ndfu@ndfu.org with any questions!

DELEGATE EXPECTATIONS

Delegates to the national convention represent NDFU and must support the policies outlined in NDFU’s Policy and Action book as adopted by members at the state convention.

Delegates must make it a priority to ach year, delegates from counties across the state of North Dakota learn the differences between the NDFU convene at the annual state convention to adopt the organization’s and NFU policies that are expected to policy program. The policy lays out the ideas, concepts and programs North arise. Before the national convention, Dakota Farmers Union believes in or stands against.

A policy change can be voted on at the county level and be brought for NDFU staff will provide background consideration before the state delegates at the convention. The Policy and Action on anticipated policy changes to the Committee, made up of leaders from across the state, also bring policy changes NFU policy. forward for consideration.

Delegates are expected NDFU’s Policy and Action is followed when the organization lobbies on behalf of to attend all meetings of farmers, ranchers and rural communities at the state and national level. the national convention.

NDFU is also affiliated with National Farmers Union, based in Washington, D.C. Each Delegates are also year, NDFU sends a number of delegates, based upon total membership numbers, to the expected to fully NFU convention. These delegates, who are elected at the NDFU state convention, help participate – including shape the national policy program for the organization. Policies which are passed at the speaking on state level can be brought for consideration at the national convention. Delegates can also the floor – during propose changes and additions to the national policy program from the floor during the policy debate.

NFU convention. with out

U

E

There are also many benefits of being involved as a delegate. All travel and convention costs are covered. Other benefits include leadership development, social interaction, creating change through policy, meeting lawmakers, public speaking and making a difference in your state and community.

14 • November 2022 • Union Farmer

NDFU to honor 19 Torchbearers National Farmers Union President Rob Larew is the keynote speaker at this year’s Torchbearer Award ceremony. The Torchbearer Award is given to those who have worked hard to complete objectives and be visible in the youth program. It’s the program’s highest honor.

Rob Larew is president of National Farmers Union, a grassroots organization that represents nearly 200,000 family farmers, ranchers and rural members across the United States.

Larew was elected National Farmers Union’s 15th president during the organization’s 118th anniversary convention in 2020. He previously served as NFU’s Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Communications, advocating for family farmers, ranchers and rural communities in Congress and the executive branch.

Prior to leading NFU, Larew served over 22 years in Congress and at USDA working on agriculture policy and communication. He was the staff director of the House Committee on Agriculture where he oversaw the committee’s efforts during the 2008 and 2014 Farm Bills.

He previously served as the Director of Congressional and Public Affairs at the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) at USDA and worked as an agricultural aide to Rep. Collin Peterson and the late Sen. Paul Wellstone.

Larew was raised on a dairy farm in Greenville, W. Va. He graduated from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Dairy Science and completed graduate work in Agronomy at Pennsylvania State University.

This year’s Torchbearers are Haidyn Becker, Joesi Klein

Each year, NDFU’s Torchbearer Award ceremony on Saturday night caps the state convention.

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew is the keynote speaker at this year’s Torchbearer Award ceremony.

and Karina Olson of Barnes County; Molly Jennings, Luke Mary and Connor Wald of Burleigh County; Paige Henningsen, Dickey County; Paige Hulm and Kaylee Weninger of Emmons County; Emilie Raab and Tate Rafteseth of Grant County; Mary Rude of Nelson County; Kayleigh Kraft and Breanna Vosberg of Oliver; Clayton Brown of Rolette County; Olivia Throener of Sargent County; and Shelby Knox, Natalie Oster and Taylor Rath of Williams County.

NDFU.org • November 2022 •• 15 15 NDFU.org • August 2022

THE AGENDA

96th Annual State Convention • Dec. 9-10, 2022 • Bismarck Event Center

FRIDAY, DEC. 9 7:30 a.m.

8 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

11 a.m.

11:40 a.m.

1:05 p.m.

3 p.m.

5 p.m.

Registration opens Mix & Mingle Breakfast Dale Bednarek, FU Industries Convention convenes Insurance annual meeting Financial reports – Mark Anderson President’s Report –­Mark Watne District caucuses and lunch Nominations for candidates for NFU delegates, NDFU president, VP and district directors; Bylaws Committee preliminary report; Policy debate.

Breakout sessions (see next page) Social with appetizers/Malt competition Live auction; Banquet; Deuces Wild! Dueling Pianos

YOUTH CONVENTION for grades 1-6 Friday

8 a.m.

8:30 a.m.

10 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

3:30 pm 3:45 pm

Registration Activities Theo Art School Bowling/Lunch Leave Midway Lanes Movie and Popcorn

8 a.m.

10 a.m.

Noon 1 p.m.

3:30 p.m.

Saturday Registration SkyZone Pizza Ranch Heritage Center Movie/Ice Cream

SATURDAY, DEC. 10 7 a.m.

8 a.m.

8:10 a.m.

9:15 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

11 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

12:45 p.m.

1:40 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

7:45 p.m.

Voting begins/registration opens Convention reconvenes NDSU Crop Economist Frayne Olson NDFU financial report Member Q&A with Mark Watne and Mark Anderson TECHNOLOGY: Changing what is possible with Greg Tehven of Grand Farm SYAC presentations/speeches Lunch NDFU Bylaws consideration Policy and Action continues Final report of Credentials Committee Elections Committee report Introduction of new board members Torchbearer ceremony. Speaker: Rob Larew, NFU President; Banquet Drawing for Simplicity mower and other prizes; Live music, “Too Old To Stand”

16 • November 2022 • Union Farmer

SATURDAY, DEC. 14 NDFU hosting five breakouts North Dakota Farmers Union’s 96th annual state convention features five different breakouts in a total of two sessions. NDFU members can choose to attend one of three breakouts for each session. NDFU’s restaurant breakout will be held in both sessions.

What’s a Wetland?

A Water Issues Update

Kale Van Bruggen, Rinke Noonan; Matt Retka, Stantec Fish and Wildlife Service easements, another “waters of the United States (WOTUS)” rewrite, and new water management options are all hot topics in North Dakota. In this session, one of the region’s top water law experts will provide an update on federal water issues.

Attendees will also learn more about North Dakota Agricultural Mitigation Inc., a farmer-led wetland mitigation banking program.

Fairness for Farmers

Rob Larew, National Farmers Union Decades of consolidation in the food and agriculture sectors have devastated farms, ranches and rural communities. During this session, National Farmers Union President Rob Larew will discuss a nationwide campaign to fight back against corporate monopolies.

Fuels of the Future

Anne Steckel, National Farmers Union Renewable fuels have a critical role to play in providing an affordable low-carbon fuel supply.

In this session, National Farmers Union’s renewable fuels expert provides an update on public policy initiatives to support farmer-grown fuels. Representatives from Glacial Lakes Energy will also discuss their success in creating local markets for E30.

Farm Bill 2023: NDFU Perspectives

NDFU Farm Bill Working Group The next Farm Bill is right around the corner, and NDFU is making your voice heard! Hear from seven Farmers Union leaders about priorities to strengthen the farm safety net, improve disaster programs and promote farmer-friendly climate initiatives.

Shake & Shape

Dan Simons, Farmers Restaurant Group; Joe Goetze and Bob Vanlancker, Founding Farmers.

Make cocktails and farmer’s pizza at home!

Both a Founding Farmers chef and distillery manager will have a video demonstration on food and drink from Founding Farmers.

Don’t forget to sign up for our pre-convention seminar on succession planning with NDSU Extension. MORE ON PAGES 22-23

DUELING PIANOS TO PLAY FRIDAY NIGHT Ted Manderfeld and David Eichholz of Deuces Wild! Dueling Pianos will entertain the convention Friday night. The duo has Too Old To Stand has traveled more than a million miles without missing a show, having performed all across performed mostly in the Upper Midwest.

North Dakota. The band David has been performing the dueling piano concept for over is known for their blend 18 years and prides himself on being able to hold the attention of his of country and classic audience from the moment he takes the stage till the last note of the rock that appeals across encore. You won’t find a more polished entertainer with such a wide variety generations of fans. of skills.

Ted got his start in Deuces Wild by walking out of his day job and demanding an audition. Although he hadn’t previously played in a dueling piano style show, his amazing showmanship and obvious ability to perform as a world class entertainer blew away the competition! Since then he has played thousands of dueling piano shows with performances all over the country!

Too Old To Stand

Don’t miss NDFU’s malt-making contest Friday night! Teams of NDFU members are making malts.

Members will taste-test each malt and vote on a winner!

18 • November 2022 • Union Farmer

The New Jersey Nights play at the King’s Castle Theatre in Branson, Mo.

Live auction features trip for two to Branson!

Live and silent auctions will be featured on Friday night. Included in the items is a seven-day fall trip to Branson, Mo., with two optional dates in late 2023.

The trip is a $2,800 value. Branson is considered one of America’s top tourist destinations. Learn more at explorebranson.com.

Included in the auction are two Henry Golden Boy lever-action rifles, both engraved with NDFU’s logo. And don’t forget about our many silent auction items. Proceeds go directly to the NDFU Foundation.

POLICY AND ACTION COMMITTEE Chair: Dawn Martin, Beulah District 1: Jakob Iverson, Langdon; Donald Rude, Tolna.

District 2: Shawn Kaylor, Velva; Philip Neubauer, Bottineau.

District 3: Jared Johnson, Sherwood; Adam Lee, Plaza.

District 4: Jon Pierce, Gladstone; Lenci Sickler, Gladstone.

District 5: Missy Axt, McClusky; David Kuntz, Elgin.

District 6: Lori Carlson, Jamestown; Erin Hagemeister, Fessenden.

District 7: Bernie Planteen, Cogswell; Isaiah Throener, Cogswell.

NOTE: If any member would like to meet with the committee, contact Matt Perdue at 701-952-0120.

NDFU.org • November NDFU.org • August 2022 2022 •• 19 19

20 • November 2022 • Union Farmer

COVERAGE. CONFIDENCE. CARRY ON. DAYS GO SMOOTHER WHEN YOU CARRY BLUE. Whether it’s a day with friends or a weekend road trip with the family, be confident you can see the doctors you want and carry on.

CARRY BLUE. CARRY ON.

Contact your local Farmers Union agent for additional information.

800-366-8331 ext. 143 info@fumic.com

Farmers Union Insurance is an independent agency for Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota.

NDFU.org • August 2022 • 21

Plan for the future NDFU, Extension to hold Design Your Succession Plan event prior to NDFU state convention in Bismarck

Recognizing the educational needs of farming and ranching families, North Dakota State University Extension developed two Design Your Succession Plan programs, one for small business and one for farm and ranch families. The program helps participants begin the process of creating a succession plan by exploring the four components of succession planning: planning for the business, retirement, transition and estate.

The farm and ranch program is for families who want to shape the future ownership of their family farm or ranch, whether that is transferring a viable business to the next generation or determining how to divide the farm or ranch assets. The small business program is for business owners who plan to transition the business to the next generation, ensuring the owner’s retirement needs are met and the business can continue to

22 • October 2022 • Union Farmer

flourish in the community for years to come. Both generations benefit from participating.

“Preparing the next generation to weather uncertain environments is an important part of these potential retirements and local legacies,” said Carrie Johnson, NDSU Extension assistant director for family and community wellness programs.

Discussions about the future can be difficult.

Design Your Succession Plan workshop participants learn how to start and sustain those discussions and begin developing a succession plan. They also learn about choosing and preparing to work with legal and financial professionals who will help make sure the plan is viable.

“Those who begin the succession planning process during the Design Your Succession Plan

workshops and continue it at home can cut costs because they are well-prepared to meet and work efficiently and effectively with legal and financial professionals,” said Johnson. “Attendees think about what they want, explore options and consider consequences before making decisions.”

Participants receive a succession planning resource binder and workbook for use during and after the workshop. Starting the process during the program gives participants a jump start on their succession plan.

“The program provides owners and the identified successor generation an opportunity to begin shaping future ownership,” said Andrea Bowman, NDSU Extension program coordinator, leadership and civic engagement. “Good communication is key to a successful succession plan.”

Design Your Succession Plan program workshops have been helping North Dakota’s farm and ranch families since 2014 and small businesses since 2018. Since its pilot year, approximately 650 participants have attended a Design Your Succession Plan workshop.

Participants who attend indicate an increase in knowledge and confidence.

Evaluation of the program’s impact shows that more than half of participants have started a conversation, formed a vision plan, started to mentor a successor or accepted mentorship, gathered information and documentation needed for the succession planning process, and used the provided workbook to begin preparing their succession plan. Additionally, nearly a third of participants began meeting with a professional.

The success of the program has been recognized across the U.S. Organizations in New York, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Maryland, Montana, Utah and Wyoming have purchased the curriculum from NDSU Extension and have begun implementing it for their audiences.

For more information, search “NDSU Extension Design Your Succession Plan” or visit: www.ndsu.edu/ agriculture/extension/programs/ design-your-succession-plan.

NDFU.org • November 2022 • 23

Our Fam

Book S the Fourth children’s book from North Dakota Farmers Union

$16.95 plus tax

Dusty learns about generations of family and equipment on their farm, and the latest in soil technology. Find out how Dusty makes Gramps a new thingamig for his tractor to save the day!

26 • August 2022 • Union Farmer 24 • August 2022 • Union Farmer

mily mil y Farm

Series Don’t forget! You can get all four books for one great price!

Sullivan Our Family Farm • Cows on the Mooove!

$16.95 ISBN 978-0-578-91271-4

51695>

NDFU

9 780578 912714

© North Dakota Farmers Union Foundation

GET 4 BOOKS FOR $55 + tax

NOTE: only ONE “Where Roots Run Deep” book is included in $55 deal

visit ndfu.org to purchase your books online or call the state office at 1-800-366-6338

NDFU.org • August 2022 • 27 NDFU.org • August 2022 • 25

NDFU BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS Office of President – Mark Watne It is the time of year when I write my announcement to be considered for election as president of NDFU. I want to assure each member that I make this decision with great respect for the position and the organization.

My passion for NDFU and willing to continue to work hard remains strong.

Serving as president of this organization is multi-tasked. It is necessary to take care of the needs of our members for the day and to build the strength of the organization for the future. We continuously work to maintain the financial resources to be able to achieve our goals. Oversight of our business’s growth and success is essential. I will continue this important task.

We have built a strong brand and continue to develop success stories that will hopefully fulfill our mission and goals.

I hope you will consider voting for me for president. There continues to be challenges and opportunities in agriculture and our society. NDFU will be a voice that helps determine the path forward. I will work to enhance our opportunities using our assets, staff and members to achieve our goals to the best of my ability.

Thanks for your consideration.

NDFU/AIC board elections are being held for officers and even-numbered districts at the state convention Dec.9-10 in Bismarck.

Directors serve two-year terms, while the president and vice president are elected each year. Candidacy announcements should be submitted to the office of the president and be no longer than 200 words.

Announcements must be submitted by Nov. 15.

Office of VP – Bob Kuylen, South Heart Greetings from the Kuylen farm. What a difference a year makes. We went from a drought to two huge blizzards to a very wet spring through July and back into a drought. Ranchers built up their hay reserves. Farmers had great crops.

This administration is enforcing antitrust and Packer and Stockyards laws. At our September fly-in, I was privileged to meet with the Department of Justice. They are looking into many more cases of violations of these laws.

In the conservation area, plans are coming together to pay for storing carbon in the ground be it by farming, ranching or forestry.

We emphasized that the early participants in no-till farming should be rewarded for the work they have already done, not just new participants.

I really enjoyed being your vice president and would ask for your support again this year. Brenda and I are looking forward to seeing everyone at the convention.

District 2 Director – Bob Finken, Douglas It has been my privilege and honor to represent the members of District 2 on the NDFU Board of Directors. It takes a lot of time, commitment and dedication to fulfill the duties of Director. As such, we serve on at least eight different but interconnected boards. There are increasing responsibilities to take care of the “business” of Farmers Union. It is an exciting and rewarding challenge. It is important to have a strong Farmers Union organization, not just in financial resources but more so in human resources. Member involvement is what makes us so strong. This strength is needed to meet the constant challenges of fairness for farmers. We need more competitive markets not dominated by a few huge multinational corporations. We need an even better farm program that strengthens crop insurance, has support prices tied to the cost of production, includes a permanent disaster program and better supports for livestock producers. I will continue to strive to reach these goals and I would appreciate your vote and support to be reelected as your District 2 Director.

District 4 Director – Shane Sickler, Gladstone Shane has been an active in NDFU his entire life. He attended Farmers Union camps as a youth and received his Torchbearer Award in 1978. He is currently president of Dunn County Farmers Union. Shane has participated in multiple legislative fly-ins to Washington, D.C. He has served as a delegate and insurance delegate to the state convention and has also served as a delegate to several National Farmers Union conventions. The Sickler family received the NDFU Farm Family of the Year Award in 2006.

The Sickler family continues to farm and ranch on their fourth generation homestead north of Gladstone. They grow spring and winter wheat, durum, peas, canola, sunflowers, corn, flax and soybeans. They also have a cow/calf operation.

Shane and Jana share their lives with their daughter Hope and her husband, Aaron Raley, their son Lenci and his wife Jaime, and their daughter Stormie. They are also blessed with three grandbabes, Sonora Wray Raley and Mila Valentine & Lowen Mae Sickler.

NDFU and the Farmers Union family have always been a special part of Shane’s life as well as his family’s lives and he’s honored to serve as District 4 Director.

District 6 Director – Michelle Ziesch, Pettibone Wow, I can’t believe another two years has passed. Time is truly flying by. Thank you for the opportunity to represent District 6 on the North Dakota Farmers Union board. I am so honored by the privilege to represent you. I would especially like to thank my husband Robin and the rest of my family for helping out wherever needed so I can best serve N.D. farmers and ranchers.

I am proud to have been a part of positive changes at the local, state and national levels. I had the opportunity to testify on behalf of ranchers at the Senate Ag Committee hearings and those bills passed out of committee. I am looking forward to seeing everyone and giving updates at county conventions and the state convention. I am so proud of our members and great farm organization. As things are starting to normalize, we are working to grow our insurance company, increase our membership, spread our message through our restaurants and give kids the opportunity to become leaders through our youth programs and camps. I will continue to work on your behalf and would appreciate your continued support and vote at the state convention as I run for reelection.

What’s happening around the state

Pauline Roeske, Stutsman County Farmers Unnion secretary and treasurer, delivered books to a local elementary school in Jamestown. The board donated a set of three books to each elementary school in Stutsman County.

Grand Forks County Farmers Union donated $500 to the Journey Home Animal Rescue.

Barnes County Farmers Union’s Jill Olson, Robert Bruns, and Farmers Union Insurance agent and EPIC coach Tyler Van Bruggen delivered donuts and water to all of the co-ops in Barnes County in honor of co-op appreciation month.

28 • November 2022 • Union Farmer

Pierce County Farmers Union presents a $500 check to the Prairie Village Museum toward the purchase of a barrel train. The event and train ran three weekends during Prairie Pumpkin Patch Days.

County convention calendar ADAMS • Sunday, Nov. 13 • The Gutter, Hettinger Notes: 3-5 p.m. in the cafe/EPIC event in the bowling alley.

BARNES • Sunday, Nov. 6 • Pizza Corner, Valley City Notes: 5:30 p.m. registration, meeting at 5:45 p.m. with youth awards. Youth participants will go roller skating at 6 p.m. Attendees encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item for local pantry.

BENSON • Tuesday, Nov. 15 • Maddock Community Center Notes: 5:30 p.m. social, 6 p.m. meal.

MERCER • Tuesday, Nov. 15 • Beulah Civic Center MOUNTRAIL • Thursday, Nov. 10 • Mountrail County Fair Building, Stanley Notes: 6 p.m. supper with meeting to follow.

NELSON • Tuesday, Nov. 1 • Friend & Neighbors Cafe, Tolna Notes: 6 p.m., Matt Perdue will provide legislative update from state office.

OLIVER • Monday, Nov. 14 • Center Senior Center

BOTTINEAU • Tuesday, Nov. 15 • Shawna’s Place, Westhope Notes: 6 p.m. meal, meeting to follow, $500 door prize (must be present to win).

BOWMAN/SLOPE • Thursday, Nov. 3 • 4 Seasons, Bowman Notes: 5:30 p.m., supper served with NDFU meeting and state updates to follow. Turkey bingo will be played.

DICKEY • Monday, Nov. 14 • Dickey County Fairgrounds, Ellendale Notes: German supper served at 5:30 p.m. and meeting at 6:30 p.m.

KIDDER • Friday, Nov. 11 • Pettibone Community Hall Notes: Social at 6:30 p.m., meal at 7 p.m. Meeting will honor Veterans Day as an appreciation event and include a featured speaker and freewill donation benefitting the Honor Flight program.

LAMOURE • Sunday, Nov. 20 • LaMoure Omega Room Notes: 6 p.m. supper with a speaker.

LOGAN • Friday, Nov. 11 • Downtowner, Napoleon Notes: Dinner at 7 p.m. followed by meeting. 40-Below comedy show begins at 9 p.m. Dinner/show are free to members and veterans.

MCLEAN • Sunday, Nov. 6• Totten Trail, Coleharbor Notes: Supper at 6 p.m. with meeting to follow.

Students from both Selfridge Elementary and Selfridge High School enjoyed lunch courtesy of Sioux County Farmers Union. SCFU held a Farmer’s Share appreciation event.

RENVILLE • Thursday, Nov. 3 • Prairie Bistro, Mohall Note: Meeting starts at 6 p.m.

ROLETTE • Sunday, Nov. 13 • Country Club Golf Course, Rolette Note: Meeting starts at 4 p.m.

SHERIDAN • Wednesday, Nov. 9 • Reunion Bar & Grill, McClusky Notes: 5:30 p.m. social, 6 p.m. meal. NDFU President Mark Watne is speaking.

STARK • Sunday, Nov. 27 • KC Hall, Gladstone Notes: 4 p.m. meeting with meal and bingo to follow STEELE • Sunday, Nov. 13 • Senior Citizens Center, Hope STUTSMAN • Tuesday, Nov. 15 • NDFU state office, Jamestown Notes: 6 p.m. supper, meeting to follow.

TOWNER • Sunday, Nov. 6 • Masonic Lodge, Cando Note: Meeting starts at 3 p.m.

WARD • Sunday, Nov. 6 • NDSU Research Ext. Center, Minot Notes: 2 p.m. meeting with dessert social to follow.

WELLS • Sunday, Nov. 20 • B-52 Roadhouse & Lanes, Harvey Note: Meeting starts at 2:30 p.m. State office update, youth awards, short business meeting, youth bowling and pizza/ice cream.

Sioux County Farmers Union EPIC coach Mary Jean Hunter stands with a room of excited third-graders at Selfridge Elementary. SCFU donated a set of books to the four schools in Sioux County.

NDFU.org • November 2022 • 29

CLASSIFIEDS

Ads must be submitted through the online form at www.ndfu.org. Click “Classifieds” at the very bottom of ndfu.org and fill out the online form. 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 WHITE 2-70 TRACTOR, 1976 Model, diesel, factory 3-Point, 18.4 x 38 Firestones 50% bar, factory ROPS, front weights, was not a loader tractor, new battery and seat cushions. Engine starts, runs very good, transmission quiet. 701-720-1263, Jim Norlin, Des Lacs.

SUPER M; Super MTA; 13’ IH #55 Chisel plow; 7’ #1100 IH sickle mower; V type drill fill, fits 15’ box; Dakon fork type rock picker; # 817 Farmhand Mixer Mill; Coleman popup camper, lift broken, could be made into trailer. 701-924-8233, James Lehfeldt, Fingal.

AIR COMPRESSOR, Kellog-American, electric 220, 48 inches in height and approximately 60 inches long. $800. E-mail Vgowin@westriv.com. 701-748-2873/701870-1970, Verna Gowin, Hazen.

15-30 MCCORMICK TRACTOR; 1 new tire LT245-75R-Load Range E; Two cream separators; One David Bradley metal grain box, like new; Two pairs of cowboy boots size 6 ½, to small, like new $40; 1905 JD metal corn sheller; 4-wheel steel running gear; Covered wagon running gear; Saddle and 2 bridles. Email: larryn@westriv.com.

701-548-8020, Larry Nagel, Shields.

CRAFTSMAN 3 TON FLOOR JACK; Pair of car ramps and 4 support jacks; Marquette arc farm welder with helmet, cables, and rods; CH electric wire welder, new in the box never opened; Sand blaster cabinet with all accessories; Propane weed wand and tank; Buddy Flex - Mr. Heater fish house propane heater, 8,000 - 11,000 BTU, new in the box never opened; Most items excellent to new condition. Make reasonable offers. 701-838-5014, Don Eliason, Minot.

GENERATOR, Northern Tool PowerHorse 2500-watt generator, new, never used. $350 OBO. 701-297-9634, Larry Lampl, West Fargo.

CULTIVATOR, Koehn 8 row Danish tine cultivator, 3pt. hitch, depth wheels, stand, sway discs on ends. $250 OBO. Hurry before the snow gets too deep. 701-6598238, Glen Nagel, Jamestown.

TWO STEEL BINS on cones w/aeration fans; Bourgault knock on cultivator sweeps; Used Case IH 8230 feeder chain; combine pickup guards/lifters; 3 triangular grain auger hoppers w/straps/chains to fasten onto grain auger; old front tine rototiller; Simer water pump; farm scale/steel wheels; used 16” JD cultivator shovels/ spikes; 4x8’ wooden stone boat; John Blue anhydrous nitrolator w/hyd shut off/hoses.

701-629-9003, Doug Halden Stanley.

30 • November 2022 • Union Farmer

GEHL MIXER, model 95 grinder mixer 21 inch mill, $3500; IH 14 ft. disk reconditioned new bearings, like new tires, hyd. cylinder, $1600; IH 12 ft. 6200 press drill reconditioned $2400; Three 10 ft. 6200 drills reconditioned, will split; Double 9 ft. rowse mower IH heads reconditioned $9800; 6 ft. hyd. driven broom Skidsteer attachment $1500; Can deliver any of these items. 701-400-5742, Gerald Miller, Mandan.

WANTED TRUCK HOOD to fit 1979 C-60 Chevy, no dents or damage; Complete front grill for 2390 or 2590 Case tractor. 701-597-3107, Ken Koch, Shields.

TRACTOR TIRES, good used set of 18:4x38. If no answer, leave message.

701-740-8979, Julie Peters, Bisbee.

TRACTORS; IH, 806’s on up; JD’s 5010, 5020, 6030, 4620; MM’s 950’s on up.

Olivers 1964 on up. AC 200, 210. D-21, others. Will buy running or not. 701-6282130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley.

MOWER, John Deere #39 3 point sickle mower; Gehl 206 6 wheel hay rake; Gehl 209 9 wheel hay rake. 701-226-4055, Lloyd Giese, Steele.

MOWER, New Holland or Rowse used 7 foot mower. 701-337-5836/406-989-0019, Mike Carlson, Douglas.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE BOOK COLLECTION, 33 books written by Lauraine Snelling. Entire Blessing series.

All like new. $5 a title plus $15 for postage. gskogen@nccray.com. 701-859-5431, Alvina Skogen, Epping.

ND LICENSE PLATES, 1920s, 30s, 40s, 50s and more; Two bottom horse-drawn plows, $350; Winchester 1894 Air Rifle – NIB, $250. 701-840-0538, Rodger Berntson, Sanborn.

OLD STUFF, old and interesting items like Crocks that have store names printed on them. ND found arrowheads, ND small town metal tokens, Indian head ND road signs, ND license plates car and motorcycle. I also buy items like signs, thermometers, clocks that advertise different tractors, gas and oil companies, and old pop (soda) signs. Anvils, gas pumps, and cast-iron jawed animal traps.

701-220-5746, Val Ganje, Bismarck.

PRAIRIE DOG HUNTERS to hunt on my land. Make reservations now; Want to hire somebody to build a 3-barb wire fence with steel posts immediately. Email: larryn@ westriv.com. 701-548-8020, Larry Nagel, Shields.

FEED FOR SALE TEFF GRASS, wrapped round bales, put up with no rain, 1300 to 1400 pounds per bale. 701-430-0197/701-430-1139, Ronnie Braaten, Hatton.

UPLAND HAY, 100-plus round bales, baled with 569 JD baler. 701-720-1483, Randy Hochstetler, Rolette.

BALES, 100 round bales, 1,000 pounds each, $45 each. 701-320-6019, Dave Mutschler, Wimbledon.

Do you know a member who does something interesting or unique?

WANTED OLD VW BUSES, Volswagen buses, whole parts or pieces. Interested in anything to help finish other projects. 701-219-5847, Joel Herman, Harwood.

GOLF CART, electric, good shape; 196066 Chevy pickup; Lever action rifle; Electric lift chair. 701-628-2130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley.

RIFLE, lever-action, please call with description/caliber. Prefer Browning, will consider others; 1940 Ford pickup or truck needed. 1939-46 cabs will work. Parts or runners all considered. Please call with any information about something that would help out. 701-263-1535, Darwin Peterson, Antler.

FISH HOUSE, portable, homemade, 5 x 8 x 6 1/2 ft. high; Wood ends with door, folds down flat, white parachute, cloth on sides and top, is wind proof. 701-246-3469/701720-1483, Vernon Hochstetler, Rolette.

Let us know! We may feature them in the Union Farmer! Contact Editor Chris Aarhus at caarhus@ndfu.org or 701-952-0118

SECRETARY OF STATE

MICHAEL HOWE Republican

JEFFREY POWELL Dem-NPL

CHARLES TUTTLE Independent

EDITOR’S NOTE: In the October edition of the Union Farmer, NDFU inadvertently omitted Charles Tuttle from the Secretary of State candidates page.

Tuttle is running as an independent. NDFU regrets the omission. Below are his responses.

must reside on servers within the USA — and further is there a prohibition on foreign institutions, companies or countries from accessing, creating or modifying that same data? 6. Are the main ND.gov and ND voting websites hosted only on USA servers? If not, what company and in what country is that website hosted in?

North Dakota’s election process has recently been under a microscope. What will you do to reassure North Dakotans that our elections are secure, while protecting all citizens’ right to vote?

What will you do to streamline processes, and how will those changes benefit farmers, ranchers and small businesses?

(Editor’s note: As his response, Charles Tuttle submitted a series of questions he feels need to be answered).

TUTTLE: 1. Do all outside vendor contracts include provisions to make sure that all facets of North Dakota’s various apps and websites have North Dakota’s data hosted on servers located only within the USA? (Foreign companies AND locations excluded from having control over our data?) 2. Is the DMV data (used in ND government operations) located only on USA servers (not including back-ups)? 3. Is the central voter roll data (used in North Dakota government operations) located only on servers within the United States of America (not including back-ups)?

4. Is it standard practice to include in contracts that any subcontractor(s) or sub-subcontractor(s) must be disclosed i.e., name and location? 5. Do the contracts for data hosting for items 2 & 3 listed above require that the hosted data

TUTTLE: Farmers and ranchers are small businesses and we need to treat them as such. What does streamline really mean? We should treat all businesses in North Dakota the same. With our wealth (right now a $2.5 billion surplus according to Governor Burgum) we can lower everyone’s tax burden. It’s time we stop the unconstitutional use of property tax and require the legislature to follow the constitution and fully and properly fund our K-12 schools (article 10, first paragraph, Public Finance and Debt). We need to stop the excessive burden of regulations on all businesses.

Make the required paperwork simple and direct to the point. Websites need to be very user-friendly. Lowering the tax burden and simplifying paperwork will make for a better business climate. Our farmers and ranchers have been doing this for years without government interference. They can be the best teacher on what needs to be done. We have to build a climate to let them thrive.

Visit ndfu.org/election to read the responses in every race

NDFU.org • November 2022 • 31

Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division

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