Bismarck students reaping benefits of efforts to source school lunch straight from the farm
I grew up on a farm outside of Pekin and graduated from Dakota Prairie High School in 2000. After high school I went to Valley City State University where I graduated with a business administration degree. In college is where I met my wife Randee and we moved to Bismarck in 2005. We have a son Weston, who is 14. We really enjoy traveling, spending time with family and helping in the community. We volunteer at the local soup kitchen, fill the little food pantries around the community that helps those in need and help local teachers buy items needed for their classrooms.
I first got licensed in the insurance industry in 2005 and started with Farmers Union in 2013. I really enjoy helping people on a one-on-one basis to help figure out what plan fits their needs. I also enjoy working with fellow agents around the state and offer expertise help with health and life products. I am proud to work for an organization
PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402-2136
• USPS 016-211
Take the next step in ag leadership!
GROW TO LEAD
Grow to Lead is a leadership program North Dakota Farmers Union (NDFU) offers to farming and ranching members. The goal of the program is to cultivate active agriculture leaders within the organization and in communities across North Dakota.
The program applicant must be an active producer and regular paid member in North Dakota Farmers Union. Applicant must be at least 21 years old. The program is limited to 15 participants. Applications are due Dec. 1. Contact Jessica at jhaak@ndfu.org.
LEAD THE WAY
Jan. 31-Feb. 1, 2025 • NDFU state office, Jamestown. Lead the Way is a training event open to anyone looking to sharpen leadership skills. County officers receive a free hotel stay for the night of Jan. 31, 2025, in Jamestown to attend the event.
The event includes a keynote speaker and will have a grand prize giveaway and free NDFU gear for all who attend! All are welcome! Register on the NDFU app or through the portal. Deadline to register is Jan. 24, 2025. Contact Jessica with any questions at jhaak@ndfu.org.
TRI-STATE YOUNG PRODUCERS
Jan. 10-11, 2025 • Fargo
Each year, NDFU partners with South Dakota Farmers Union and Oklahoma Farmers Union in hosting an event for young producers. The event is limited to those farmers/ranchers who are preferably age 50 or younger. Must be 21 and an NDFU member to attend. Deadline to register is Dec. 20, 2024 (limited to 20 participants). Register with Jessica at jhaak@ndfu.org.
Visit ndfu.org/about/member-services for more detailed information.
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 willingness 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’ 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. 13-14 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.
Greetings from the Kuylen Farm. We hope harvest was safe and prosperous.
We have been working on getting a farm bill signed but there is a slim chance it will happen before the election, and if we are lucky, it will happen in the lame duck session. Here in the state it looked very good until July came along and heat and drought hit out west, and too much moisture plagued the east. So we have low yield, test weights and Vomitoxin in the wheat, and drown-out and wheel tracks in the corn and beans. We are being tested. Low commodity prices and overly high input costs makes one wonder how long this country's cheap food policy will go before someone explains to corporate America they need to share in the profits. The first time I can remember that you can't buy a loaf of bread with a bushel of wheat.
I'm sure you have noticed that insurance prices have been rising. Believe me, we have too. The severe weather events in the US and around the world have pushed losses and reinsurance sky high. I have enjoyed serving as your Vice President and would appreciate your continued support Brenda and I are looking forward to seeing everyone at county convention and the state convention in Bismarck.
Office of VP – Bob Kuylen, South Heart
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.
Shane has been active in North Dakota Farmers Union his entire life. He attended Farmers Union camps as a youth and received his Torchbearer Award in 1978. He served as president of Dunn County Emerson Local for many years. He served as field staff for District 4 during the 1980s and 90s. He is currently president of Dunn County Farmers Union. Shane has participated in multiple legislative fly-ins to Washington, D.C., and has been fortunate to share that experience with his three adult children. He has also served on the state Policy and Action committee for 2 terms.
Shane and Jana and their family received the NDFU Farm Family of the Year Award in 2006. Shane, Jana and their family continue to farm and ranch on their fourth generation homestead north of Gladstone. They grow spring and winter wheat, durum, peas, canola, sunflowers, corn, soybeans and pinto beans. They also have a cow/calf operation and raise performance quarter horses.
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 would be honored to continue to serve as your District 4 Director.
District 6 Director – Shelly Ziesch, Pettibone
Thank you for the opportunity to represent District 6 on the NDFU board. It truly is a privilege and honor to serve you in the capacity of your district director. I would like to thank my husband Robin and my entire family for helping out wherever needed so I can best serve ND farmers and ranchers. I am extremely proud to be able to represent you on all levels especially with having recently come back from the National Farmers Union Fly-in in Washington, D.C. We worked hard lobbying for passing a Farm Bill, Right to Repair, Country of Origin Labeling and Fairness to Farmers. I am looking forward to representing North Dakota Farmers Union at the upcoming NFU Women's Conference and being on a panel about leadership in Farmers Union. I look forward to seeing as many members as possible at the upcoming county conventions and giving you updates from the state board about our farm organization, youth program, restaurants and insurance company. I will continue to be your voice and work hard on your behalf and I would appreciate your continued support and vote at the state convention as I run for reelection. Thank you once again.
District 4 Director – Shane Sickler, Gladstone
District 2 Director – Bob Finken, Douglas
FSA releases reminder on disaster assistance programs for wildfires
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) reminds farmers and ranchers affected by the recent wildfires in Western North Dakota that disaster assistance programs are available to support their recovery efforts. Please reach out to your local FSA office to start a Notice of Loss. You can find your closest office at USDA Service Center Locator. For more information, visit fsa. usda.gov/disaster.
FSA administers a suite of safety-net programs to assist producers after natural disasters such as wildfire. Below is a description of some of those programs, followed by a listing of important documentation to maintain while preparing for your conversation with your local USDA Service Center:
Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP)
LIP offers payments to eligible producers for livestock death losses in excess of normal mortality due to adverse weather such as wildfires. To participate in LIP, producers will be required to provide verifiable documentation of death losses resulting from an eligible adverse weather event such as wildfire, and you must submit a notice of loss to your local FSA by the application deadline, March 1, 2025.
Livestock Forage Program (LFP)
LFP offers payments to grazing producers for reduced forage from eligible drought in the county, and wildfire on federally managed acreage. To participate in LFP, producers must file an application with actual livestock quantities by Jan. 30, 2025, and attach records of land control such as leases, and for federal lands the notification to remove cattle.
Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP)
ELAP offers payments to grazing producers for lost grazing, lost feed and water hauling, due to drought and adverse weather conditions such as wildfires. To participate in ELAP, producers must submit a notice of loss to your local FSA office by the application deadline, Jan. 30, 2025, and should maintain inventory and loss documentation and receipts of grazing and feed losses to include value of stored feed that was damaged by weather.
Emergency Conservation Program (ECP
ECP provides emergency funding for farmers and ranchers to rehabilitate land severely damaged by natural disasters; including fence losses from wildfires. To participate in ECP an application for cost-share assistance must be filed, the local FSA County Committee (COC) or its representative will conduct an onsite inspection of the damaged area, and the agency responsible for technical assistance, such as the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) has recommended the technical requirements for the project such as replacing/repairing livestock fencing.
Emergency Loan Program
Emergency loans are available to producers with agriculture operations located in a county under a primary or contiguous presidential or secretarial disaster designation such as drought or wildfire. These low interest loans help producers recover from production and physical losses. Be sure to contact your local USDA Service Center early.
— Information courtesy ND FSA
Documentation important for livestock programs at FSA
Producers should record all pertinent information regarding livestock losses due to the eligible adverse weather or loss condition, including:
• Documentation of the number, kind, type, and weight range of livestock that have died; supplemented, if possible, by photographs or video, records of ownership and records of losses.
• Quantity of normal mortality losses for those losses not associated with disaster.
• Rendering truck receipts by kind, type and weight - important to document prior to disposal.
• Beginning inventory supported by birth recordings or purchase receipts.
• Documentation from Animal Plant Health Inspection Service, Department of Agriculture, veterinarian, or other sources to substantiate eligible death losses due to an eligible loss condition.
• Contract grower’s contracts and grazing land leases.
• Documentation that livestock were removed from grazing pastures due to an eligible adverse weather or loss condition.
• Costs of transporting livestock feed to eligible livestock, such as receipts for equipment rental fees for hay lifts and snow removed.
• Feed purchase receipts if feed supplies or grazing pastures are destroyed.
• Harvest records or feed purchase records, along with documented loss quantities.
• Number of gallons of water transported to livestock due to water shortages.
— Information courtesy ND FSA
FOUR VIE FOR BOARD
The CHS annual meeting is set for Dec. 5-6 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Jen Meyer of Wilton, Patrick Murphy of Carpio, Steve Perdue of Ray and Trent Sherven of Ryder are running for the open seat on the CHS board of directors.
Tell us about yourselves.
MEYER: I am a full time farmer and rancher, and farm alongside my husband James Meyer. We run a 3,000 acre operation, where we grow a variety of crops such as canola, peas, spring wheat, durum, pintos, soybeans, corn and alfalfa, as well as a herd of about 200 head of cattle. I have one daughter (Jasmine, 9) who is eager to learn and help any way she can on the farm. I also serve on several boards. I am District 12 Director of the North Dakota Soybean Council, president of the North Dakota Cooperative Directors Association, director of the Burleigh County Farmers Union and vice president of the Farmers Union Oil of Wilton.
MURPHY: My wife Diane and I farm in the Carpio area and have for over 40 years. We have a son and his family that farm with us. We raise small grains including wheat, canola, soybeans and other crops. I have served on various boards including Renville County Soil Conservation, Northern Canola Growers, US Canola Growers, St. Ann’s Parish Council in Berthold, and in late 80’s, served on Farmers Union Oil in Berthold.
PERDUE: My wife, Bernadette and I operate a family farm 3.5 miles west of Ray. We have four grown children and five grandchildren. I was raised in a cooperative oriented family. My father was a general manager of several CHS affiliate oil stations for over 50 years and my grandparents were involved in organizing, patronizing and serving as directors of several cooperatives. I have spent my entire life doing business with and also serving in the governance of many cooperatives, both in and out of the CHS system. In my board experience I have served in multiple leadership roles, oftentimes holding the position of chairman.
SHERVEN: I am a fourth-generation farmer raised on a family farm southwest of Ryder, where my family and I continue to operate today. We also operate my wife’s family farm northeast of Souris. In both locations, we produce small grains and oilseed crops. I have a degree in math education from Minot State University and a master’s degree in education administration from Arizona State University. I was first elected to the CHS SunPrairie board 10 years ago (2014-present, secretary 2023-present). I have grown in my understanding of the cooperative system and thoroughly enjoy being part of the decision-making process for local patrons. Most recently, I served on the CHS Resolutions Committee (20212023, chair 2023).
Jen Meyer Wilton
Patrick Murphy Carpio
Steve Perdue Ray
Trent Sherven Ryder
In this farm
economy,
what
are
the
advantages
of doing business with CHS and member cooperatives vs. independents?
MEYER: When you do business with a cooperative, you are engaged with the company. Being a member of the cooperative gives you a voice with your vote. You are able to pool resources for better buying power and lower costs for your farm. A cooperative is run by the community, and gives back to the community as well. They are passionate in helping others and strive for all members to succeed by sharing profits.
SHERVEN: There are many advantages whether we’re in the past, present or future farm economy. Owner loyalty is at the forefront of any cooperative. The success of a cooperative is directly affected by their member owners. This ensures the profit of the cooperative stays in the communities in which business is performed versus independent profits going back to its shareholders. CHS and member cooperatives continue to provide products and services which local communities and producers need. With technology advancement allowing for easier global trade, it’s important to remember the core values of a cooperative but also diversify to survive in the volatile market it exists in. CHS and current member cooperatives have done that, giving its owners the ability to buy and sell products in a competitive market.
PERDUE: I feel there are great advantages to doing business with CHS affiliates in any type of farm economy but especially in more challenging times. The cooperative model allows for its patrons to have a voice in the business, both through their vote and in their buying decisions. The cooperative can become more efficient and streamline their product offerings when the patron-owners use their voice to influence its decisions. The biggest advantage cooperatives have over independents is the patronage they return to the members. When the patronage is considered, the bottomline price of products can be cheaper when purchased at the cooperative.
MURPHY: The advantage of doing business with CHS and affiliated co-ops is that we are in on the ownership from top to bottom and can participate in governance and profits. Over the course of a farming career, it really starts to add up (share of the profits). We have to remember to stay focused on why co-ops were started in the first place — to serve the needs of its patrons. We must continue to tell our story of the importance of co-ops as it is our part of the value-added system and we can share from start to finish.
3. What
opportunities exist
for CHS to add value for its members in North Dakota?
SHERVEN: CHS has an opportunity to build trust. With the passing of last year’s bylaw vote, the CHS board has more flexibility, but also more responsibility given the ability to hold back up to 35% of patronage sourced income. CHS can also update its locations where there is minimal cooperative competition. CHS can bring value to its members in North Dakota by balancing these challenges and considering what is best for CHS and its members. Finally, CHS’s diverse asset portfolio of refineries, ethanol plants, processing plants and export facilities gives its members the ability to capture additional patronage sourced income which brings value home locally. Processing of canola should be closely explored as it seems N.D. has outgrown its infrastructure given how acres and production have increased.
MURPHY: Moving forward, there will continue to be opportunities to add value in all areas, whether it be marketing, processing or exports. But we have to be cautious and careful to move forward responsibly and with strong leadership to keep CHS financially strong and not put that at risk. Thank you for your vote. I will do the best I can.
MEYER: CHS can help cooperatives expand services that are needed in the area, such as agronomy and marketing. They have the resources available to help with training for members, directors and staff of cooperatives. CHS also gives back to the community, providing funding for many programs for youth education, such as with the North Dakota Farmers Union. Our youth camp shows the value of cooperatives to the next generation, ensuring the growth of the cooperative. With investments into our local cooperatives, CHS can help North Dakota towns thrive and grow, providing much needed resources into rural areas that are often overlooked by other companies.
PERDUE: With CHS having a global presence and a large footprint throughout rural America, especially North Dakota, the opportunities to add value are endless. Opportunities to crush oilseeds such as soybeans, canola and sunflowers will continue to present themselves in this age of biofuels. I also believe there will be opportunities around carbon that will continue to evolve, with the chances of carbon credits, both as offsets and insets, becoming part of ag producers' daily lives. CHS could stand as a leader in that area. Technology will continue to improve and evolve at a rapid pace and CHS must be ready to seize the opportunities that will allow them to leverage their equity to create financial rewards for its members.
NDFU is looking for updated information on our members! Use the camera on your phone to scan the QR code, which will take you to an online form to fill out.
COVER: Two students from Grimsrud Elementary enjoyed corn on the cob straight from Vulcan Farms in Menoken. Bismarck Public Schools purchased 500 dozen to make sure all 5,000-plus students across 18 elementary schools were able to partake.
(Photo courtesy NDDPI)
ABOVE: From left, Michelle Wagner (Child Nutrition Program Director), Clarissa Bachman (Child Nutrition Supervisor and Local Foods Coordinator), Gina Giovannoni (Purchasing Coordinator) and Amanda Smith (Child Nutrition Supervisor and Local Foods Coordinator) post in front of the murals they commissioned for the kitchen at Miller Elementary in Bismarck. Wagner credits her team as being integral in expanding Bismarck's Farm-to-School program. (Chris Aarhus, NDFU)
STRAIGHT FROM THE
FARM
Bismarck Public Schools, state agencies increase efforts to source school lunch from local farms
BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU
When Michelle Wagner and her nutrition staff asked elementary students in Bismarck Public Schools (BPS) to do a blind taste test of preordered honey from a truck and fresh honey from local producer Dan Buresh, the kids left no doubt.
“Hands down, every kid voted for the local honey,” said Wagner, who is child nutrition program director for BPS. “When we started it, I thought we’d only go through a pound of honey a month. Now we go through a pound of honey a week. It’s crazy. It went through the roof.”
Honey is just one of many fresh foods that Bismarck Public Schools brings in regularly to feed more than 5,000 elementary students daily. To this point, BPS students have also had fresh beef, green beans, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, lettuce, carrots, corn on the cob, watermelon and cantaloupe, with onions, zucchini and squash on the horizon.
Overall, the undertaking is part of a growing farm-toschool movement that’s being fostered by North Dakota’s Department of Public Instruction and the Department of Agriculture.
“There’s a push for more local across the nation,” Wagner said. “At conferences, you hear about local foods and farmto-school programs. The quality is better, and the look of it is better. We understand the value in that.”
CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
BPS EFFORTS
In 2017, Wagner and her staff were looking at ways to get greater participation with BPS’ school lunch program.
“We knew any time you can use local (food), it’s better” she said. “We reached out to a few farmers. Because of the volume that we use, we put out a bid, and so farmers have to respond to a bid.”
Wagner said she remembers trying to get two vegetables that first year — cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
“I think their tomato crop failed that year, so we only had cucumbers,” she said. “That’s part of the business.”
For farmers, contracts for delivery aren’t always viewed in a positive light. Farmers who don’t fulfill contracts with an elevator have to spend their own money to close the gap. Wagner said this was cause for hesitation in the beginning and that she assured their farmers they would not operate that way.
“When the tomatoes didn’t come in, I think they felt like we were going to come after them or we would be upset,” she said. “If your tomato
FROM LEFT: Amanda Olson, child nutrition specialist with the Department of Public Instruction, poses with Grand Forks Public Schools Food Service Director Wendy Mankie and Department of Agriculture Local Foods Specialist Katrina Hananberg. The three helped serve potatoes that came directly from farms to elementary students.
crop fails, we have another source or backup with (our regular food service company). They can always fill in the gaps.
“And the farmers just love that their food is in our school.”
One farmer has turned into nine farmers that BPS regularly works with, turning an experiment into a popular program. Enrollment in the school district has grown by 11% since 2015, but participation in the hot lunch program has gone up 25%, Wagner said.
“We’re doing something right,” she said.
It’s not easy. In October, Wagner and her staff wanted BPS students to have corn on the cob. To make that happen, they had to shuck 6,000 ears of corn, which actually brought a bit of relief to them, after they did 12,000 last year.
“It was much more manageable,” Wagner said. “Last year we bit off too much, so we’re continuing to learn.”
With all of the produce coming in, Wagner said logistics are starting to become a problem. The 6,000 ears of corn, for instance, are offloaded into a garage at Bismarck Legacy High School. From there, it’s sent to the kitchen to be cooked, brought back out to be repackaged and then stored temporarily in a warehouse. A short time later, it’s hauled back
out to Bismarck’s 18 elementary schools.
“That’s a lot of movement, right?” she said. “If we had a central kitchen where our warehouse is with big coolers, it could stay there and only leave once.”
Wagner said a single processing location is her goal to improve logistics, but acknowledged the difficulty in making that happen i.e. budget, timing, etc. Nonetheless, something will have to change at some point, she said, and a central kitchen makes the most sense.
“We could do more — we could bring in more beef,” she said. “We bid out 20,000 pounds of local beef each year, and that covers half of my recipes for my six secondary schools. That doesn’t cover any of the beef needs in my elementary schools.”
While buying local can be a little more expensive for a school, Wagner said the payoff has been worth it. The program is paid for by school lunch fees and does not use local taxpayer funds.
THE PRODUCER
Dwight Duke of Skyline Ranch Produce in Oliver County loves that his produce feeds so many kids in schools.
A former teacher, Duke moved back to his wife’s family farm more than 30 years ago. In that time, he’s sold his produce at farmers’ markets in Bismarck, Beulah, Hazen and Washburn, though he’s had to cut back as of late. Still, Skyline Ranch Produce delivers
regularly to BPS.
“I taught agriculture, home economics and elementary, so my love has always been for making sure children know where their food comes from. And that’s the key issue — to be able to (feed children) something that’s grown right here in our soil in North Dakota.”
Duke utilizes four greenhouses in his operation and believes there’s a path for every school to source food locally. While the North Dakota winter may make it hard to keep a steady supply, Duke said the real problem is a lack of growers.
“There are not enough people doing it, really,” he said. “There are a few of us sending into school systems. I know several, but a lot of them have limited quantity. So, it’s definitely a possibility. We have the soil. It’s about finding the labor.”
That doesn’t mean the weather isn’t a hindrance, though.
“This year we put in to deliver carrots (to BPS), but we had a problem with weeds and grasshoppers, so we didn’t have any,” he said. “They seem to be very understanding with it, but that’s why (BPS) has to know a week in advance what we do have and what we think we can supply.”
Duke said a school that hopes to undertake a farm-to-school program should have an understanding and plan for these difficulties. Likewise, a grower shouldn’t let doubt keep
The Northland Potato Growers Association donated the potatoes to Grand Forks Public Schools. (Photos courtesy NDDPI)
CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
them from contributing local foods.
“Give (growers) an opportunity to deliver to your school system,” he said. “(For growers), schools are willing to work with you. They know that sometimes there will be weather woes, and they have additional avenues they can utilize to provide that food. It’s better for the kids to eat the food that is grown (locally). It helps the environment — it helps everything.”
SOLUTIONS
Amanda Olson is the farm-to-school specialist for the Department of Public Instruction (DPI). She heads a program that serves as a template for any school looking to integrate locally sourced food into its menu. The program has many features including an entire toolkit that can serve as a starting point.
Olson echoed Duke on some of the problems she’s working to overcome.
“We definitely need more producers that are willing to grow and want to sell to a school,” she said. “There’s not a producer in every area that has enough quantity to be serving schools, so it is a challenge.”
Olson said heated greenhouses would solve the problem of growing through the winter months, but it’s a costly endeavor that would be hard to cashflow. Additionally, geography also poses a concern. Finding ranchers in the Red River Valley to supply large school districts is no easy task.
“It’s really been mostly done in the central and western parts of the state,” she said.
Ground beef has typically been the first food a school looks at when starting the program, Olson said.
“Meat is definitely one of the biggest sellers — local beef from our great North Dakota ranchers,” she said. “We have schools that have even purchased some bison. So beef is
The Bismarck Public School District's Farm to School program feeds 5,000 elementary students across 18 schools fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms.
usually where schools start, especially if they want something during the winter. We probably have had at least half the schools in the state purchase local beef at least one time in the last couple years.”
A USDA project — Regional Food Business Centers — is one avenue that could help with food storage and transportation, Olson said. North Dakota Farmers Union is the statewide coordinator for the North Central Region.
“We don’t have food hubs, so it’s really hard for producers to (store) all of that food,” she said. “(Producers) do weekly deliveries and what not, but that’s a lot of time and effort on their part. If we could get some of this taken care of in one regional location, it would make it a lot easier. It would be a huge win for us and local food if we can get that rolling.”
Taking the time to figure out the logistics can prove difficult for smaller schools with limited staff.
“How does a cook in a small school with maybe one other person on staff find the time to actually make these connections?” Olson said. “I think that’s where a lot of people have felt a sigh of relief. I can be the resource and do the research for them. I can be the connector for them. I can start the first conversation. I can be the one checking to make sure, for example, that the local beef was processed in a stateinspected facility.”
Schools who have questions or want to take the first step can contact Olson at 701-328-0817 or amolson@nd.gov.
“I’d be happy to look into what’s available,” Olson said. “It’s just that first phone call to make it happen. We don’t have to overthink it. Just a couple of steps to get the communication rolling."
Likewise, producers should also contact her if they want to sell their produce or beef to a school district.
“We have schools that are interested,” she said.
for the 98th state convention! JOIN US
Dec. 13-14 • Bismarck Event Center
Great prizes for all ages!
• Apple MacBook laptop (ages 15-17)
• Apple iPads (6-14)
• Hikole 24-volt two-seater (5-under)
Become a convention delegate and earn an “extra” chance to win!
Convention registration
North Dakota Farmers Union members are invited to attend the state convention set for Dec. 13-14 at the Bismarck Event Center.
Early-bird registration
Register on the app or through the portal.
Preregistration is encouraged to help determine food and staffing needs. Early-bird registration closes on Dec. 4.
EARLY DEC. 4
Convention (adult)
Convention (16-20)
Youth convention
Daycare registration
$50 $70
$30 $50
$30 $50
Daycare is $20 per child and registration is limited to 20 kids. 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 Nov. 30. Contact Jessica Haak at 701-952-1110 for more information.
REGISTERING THRU THE PORTAL
• 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 1-800-366-6338 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.
Find your membership number on the back of the Union Farmer or on your membership card.
There are no exchanges or refunds. Call 1-800-366-6338 or email ndfu@ndfu.org with any questions!
12 torchbearers to be honored
The Torchbearer Award is given to those who have worked hard to complete objectives and be visible in NDFU's youth program. It’s the program’s highest honor.
The Torchbearers will be honored on stage and with a banquet on Saturday night.
This year’s Torchbearers are Quinn Carlson, Bismarck; Porter Granger, Fessenden; Samantha Greff, Mott; Ty Jerrel, Sheyenne; Taylor Johnson, Thompson; Leonna Owens, Fort Yates; Jada Schwartzenberger, Napoleon; Sydney Ternes, Washburn; Lily Thomas, Lincoln; Scout Woods, Wahpeton.
Miss North Dakota Sophia Richards of West Fargo will be the keynote speaker at the Torchbearer banquet.
Register for state convention using the NDFU App and you'll be entered into a drawing to win one of five $100 Cenex gift cards!
Download the app and see below for instructions on logging in the first time. Download the app today!
Follow the on-screen prompts to login. NDFU utilizes twofactor authentication for security purposes. You will stay logged into the NDFU app continually, providing you open the app once a month! It's easy to log into
1
Login with the email you use for your NDFU communications, and your NDFU portal password.
If you don’t know your portal password, use the Forgot Your Password option!
2
3
If we don't have your email on file, email the state office to have it attached. ndfucommunications@ndfu.org
THE AGENDA
98th Annual State Convention • Dec. 13-14, 2024 • Bismarck Event Center
FRIDAY, DEC. 13
8 a.m. Registration opens Mix & Mingle Breakfast
9:15 a.m. Convention convenes
9:30 a.m. Dr. Frayne Olson, NDSU
11 a.m. President’s Report: Mark Watne, NDFU president
11:40 a.m. Lunch/District caucuses
1:15 p.m. SPEAKER: Peter Leyden
2:45 p.m. Nominations/Bylaws Report
3 p.m. SPEAKER: Dr. William Wilson
4:30 p.m. Breakout sessions (next page)
6:15 p.m. NDFU tailgate party (page 22)
SATURDAY, DEC. 14
7 a.m. Voting opens.
8:15 a.m. Breakfast with your insurance agent
9:15 a.m. Insurance annual meeting; Credentials/Bylaws Committee reports; FUI CEO Report from Mark Anderson; Member Q & A with Watne & Anderson
11:45 a.m. Student Youth Advisory Council presentations
12 a.m. Lunch
1 p.m. Balloting closes
1:15 p.m. Policy consideration and debate
YOUTH CONVENTION for K-12 Friday
8 a.m. Registration 9 a.m. Gateway to Science 11:30 a.m. Midway Lanes/Lunch 12:30 p.m. Bowling/Lunch 2:30 pm Movie/popcorn Saturday 8 a.m. Registration 9 a.m. Theo Art School 11:30 a.m. Pizza Ranch 1 p.m. Movie/ice cream 3 p.m. Camp season preview
4:45 p.m. Final report of Credentials Committee; Elections Committee report; Introduction of new board members
5 p.m. Social/live auction
6:30 p.m. Torchbearer Award ceremony/banquet
SPEAKER: Miss North Dakota Sophia Richards
8 p.m. Drawing for prizes/social continues
NDFU to host three breakouts
North Dakota Farmers Union’s 98th annual state convention features three breakouts. The breakouts will be held at 4:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. on Friday.
FARM BILL
In this session, NDFU will share its perspective on the next Farm Bill and and its status. When will we have a Farm Bill? Why is it delayed? What are NDFU's priorities? Find out in this session!
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
In this session, NDFU will talk about the next legislative session, set to begin in January. What are the core issues NDFU will be following? What overarching issue is expected to dominate the session? Find out in this session!
CHRISTMAS CRAFT
Beyond the Blooms of Mandan is putting on a class to create a Christmas-themed piece that can be used as a wreath or a centerpiece. Come join us for festive fun! Participants can register through the NDFU app or the portal. They can also register when they arrive at state convention (if spots are still available). Each session is limited to 25 people. The registration fee for this breakout is $25.
FEATURED SPEAKERS
PETER LEYDEN
Leyden is a keynote speaker on the future of technology including what is going on in the world today, what’s probably coming in the decade ahead, what’s possible to achieve in the longterm, and what you could do now to adapt.
Leyden has been giving frequent keynote talks on the future and the impact of new technologies to businesses and general audiences throughout America and Europe for the last 25 years.
DR. WILLIAM WILSON
Wilson's focus is on risk and strategy as applied to agriculture and agribusiness with a particular focus on agtechnology development and commercialization, procurement, transportation and logistics, international marketing and competition.
He was recognized as one of the top 10 Agricultural Economists in 1995 and more recently as one of the top 1% of agricultural economists by Research Papers in Economics. In 2016, he was named the CHS Chair in Risk Management and Trading at NDSU.
NORTH
DAKOTA FARMERS UNION
TAILGATE PARTY
CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT AT STATE CONVENTION
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13
Full details and complete rules will be provided to the teams.
• Create a team of 2 members.
• Choose your team name.
• Play to 21. We use the “no bust” rule so people can go over 21.
• Double elimination tournament.
• Two people per team.
JIGSAW PUZZLE COMPETITION
• Create a team of 2-4 members.
• Choose your team name.
• Each team wil be given an identical 500-piece puzzle to assemble in two hours.
• First team to finish their puzzle in the least amount of time wins!
• Competition limited to 20 teams.
PRIZES AWARDED
TO WINNING TEAMS FOR BOTH PUZZLE & CORNHOLE GAMES
1ST PLACE - $1,000 2ND PLACE - $500 3RD PLACE - $250
Bring a deck of cards or favorite board game and play for fun while visiting with friends!
Visit NDFU.org/2024convention and sign up for our Friday night competitions! Or scan our QR code and register now!
Register your team at: ndfu.org. Questions? Call 701-952-0114.
LIVE AUCTION
Medora, ND Country Fest packages highlight auction
Live and silent auctions will be featured on Saturday night. Included in the items are weekend Medora vacation packages. Each package includes two tickets to the musical, pitchfork fondue, Bully Pulpit Golf Course and a night stay at the Badlands Hotel.
Also on the live auction are a variety of tickets and camping passes to ND Country Fest, set for July 9-12, 2025 in New Salem. The headliners include Sam Hunt, Cole Swindell, Gary Allan and Sara Evans.
Additional items include two Henry Golden Boy lever-action rifles, an NDFU skiing trip to Red Lodge, Mont., a Solo stove fire pit and four UND club seat tickets.
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.
Sam Hunt, Cole Swindell, Gary Allan and Sara Evans headline next year's ND Country Fest.
Become a delegate!
Each year, delegates from counties across the state of North Dakota convene at the annual state convention to adopt the organization’s policy program. The policy lays out the ideas, concepts and programs North Dakota Farmers Union believes in or stands against.
Each year, NDFU sends a number of delegates, based upon total membership numbers, to the National Farmers Union convention. These delegates, who are elected at the NDFU state convention, help shape the national policy program for the organization.
Policies which are passed at the state level can be brought for consideration at the national convention. Delegates can also propose changes and additions to the national policy program from the floor during the NFU convention.
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.
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 learn the differences between the NDFU and NFU policies that are expected to arise. Before the national convention, NDFU staff will provide background on anticipated policy changes to the NFU policy.
Delegates are expected to attend all meetings of the national convention. Delegates are also expected to fully participate –including speaking on the floor – during policy debate.
North Dakota Farmers Union
Bismarck - Mandan Hotels
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites 1505 Interchange Ave. - Bismarck, ND Baymont Inn & Suites 2611 Old Red Trail - Mandan, ND
Best Western Roosevelt Place Hotel 1405 Skyline Way - Bismarck, ND
Bismarck Hotel & Conference Center 800 S 3rd Street - Bismarck, ND
Candlewood Suites
4400 Skyline Crossing - Bismarck, ND
Comfort Inn & Suites Mandan
1516 - 27th Street NW - Mandan, ND
Courtyard by Marriott
3319 N. 14th Street - Bismarck, ND
EverSpring Inn & Suites
200 Bismarck Expressway - Bismarck, ND
Fairfield Inn & Suites North
1120 E. Century - Bismarck, ND
Fairfield Inn & Suites South
135 Ivy Ave. - Bismarck, ND
Holiday Inn of Bismarck
3903 State Street - Bismarck, ND
Radisson Hotel Bismarck
605 E Broadway Ave. - Bismarck, ND
Ramada Bismarck Hotel
1400 E Interchange Ave. - Bismarck, ND
Residence Inn Bismarck North
3421 N. 14th Street - Bismarck, ND
223-8060 (701) 663-7401
751-2550
(701) 223-6667 (701) 222-2900 (701) 223-9077
751-8240
BALLOT MEASURES
On Nov. 5, North Dakotans will be voting on five measures. Below are the recommendations from North Dakota Farmers Union per its Policy and Action:
STATE INSTITUTION LANGUAGE
1
If approved, the measure would update language used in the state constitution to describe certain state institutions such as changing "insane" to "individuals with mental illness," "feebleminded" to "individuals with developmental disabilities," and "deaf and dumb" to "deaf and hard of hearing."
INITIATED MEASURE PROCESS
2 3
If approved, the measure would require both constitutional and nonconstitutional initiated measures to be limited to one subject and increase the number of signatures required to place a constitutional initiated measure on the ballot from 4% to 5% of the population. Additionally, it would require a constitutional initiated measure to be approved in both the primary and general elections. If it fails at either, the measure does not pass.
LEGACY FUND TRANSFERS
If approved, the measure would change requirements for transfers from the state Legacy Fund. It would decrease the amount of principal available for spending each biennium and clarify the distributions from the Legacy Fund. It would require transfers and earnings accruing prior to July 1, 2017 to be deemed as the principal of the Legacy Fund; reduce the amount of the principal of the Legacy Fund available to be expended during a biennium from 15% to 5%; require the state investment board to invest the moneys in the Legacy Fund, not limited to the principal.
PROPERTY TAX
8 4
If approved, the measure would prohibit state and local governments from levying taxes on the assessed value of a home except for those designed to pay for bonded indebtedness incurred through a certain date.
5
RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA
If approved, the measure would legalize the recreational or personal use of marijuana.
National
Rural Health Month
Investing in themselves
Northwood Deaconess Health Center utilizes USDA-RD, BND
loans to advance goal of updating facility, health care options
BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU
With part of its main building closing in on 100 years old, the Northwood Deaconess Health Center (NDHC) in Northwood needed renovations.
To help finance that investment in rural America, NDHC turned to USDA Rural Development and its Community Facilities Loan and Grant Program, which awarded NDHC a $30 million loan.
“We really appreciate the USDA and their efforts with this,” NDHC CEO Brock Sherva said. “When we were getting this project off the ground, interest rates were so volatile at the time. We could not do a project of this size without the favorable interest rates that USDA is able to offer.”
November is National Rural Health Month,
and NDHC is reaffirming its commitment, spending nearly $40 million to revitalize and repurpose facilities. NDHC includes a critical access hospital, skilled nursing home and a clinic in Northwood, as well as clinics in Larimore and Binford. The project is expected to be completed by 2026.
“This project is rooted in our stability and commitment to all of the communities we serve,” Sherva said. “Hopefully, it can remind them of the services they can have close to home.”
Because it’s a critical access hospital, NDHC does a community health needs assessment every three years. The response from the community formed the foundation of the improvement plan. When it’s completed, NDHC will be capable of doing colonoscopies,
endoscopies and CT scans, with the possibility of adding mammography, dermatology and orthopedics.
“This strategic investment is going to make sure we’re providing services that people want and will use,” Sherva said. “We’re not building or changing anything that we haven’t heard the community ask for.”
The $39.6 million project will feature:
• A state-of-the-art emergency care center with an enclosed drop-off area for improved accessibility.
• Expanded imaging facilities, including a new CT scanning room, offering advanced diagnostic capabilities for the region.
• Larger rehabilitation therapy spaces to meet the growing demand for pediatric therapy services.
• Enhanced residential living areas, with suites providing modern amenities and medical support for 16 long-term care residents and nine inpatient rooms.
Erin Oban, state director for USDA Rural Development in North Dakota, said they’ve also been able to help facilities in Belcourt, Cooperstown, Rugby and the new Anne Carlson Center in Jamestown. She said the timing here is likely not coincidental.
“Many of these rural health care facilities were built around the same time, and they’ve aged at the same time,” she said. “These federal resources are available to invest in places that we care about, and we just really commend and appreciate working alongside strong leaders like Brock and those who came before him. Northwood Deaconess opted to invest in themselves.”
Oban said the work of USDA Rural Development often flies under the radar.
“Sometimes, it’s infrastructure we take for granted,” said Oban, who is originally from Ray. “With the billions of dollars — literally with a B
Northwood Deaconess Health Center CEO Brock Sherva speaks during the groundbreaking for the facility's renovation project, scheduled to be finished in 2026. The critical access hospital did a community health assessment with its patients and is adding procedural capabilities like colonoscopies, endoscopies and CT scans. (Photos courtesy of USDA Rural Development)
CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
— that Rural Development has invested in North Dakota in the last decade, we’ve made sure that folks have reliable and affordable electricity, high speed internet, safe water and roads we can drive on. We exist to help people — whether it’s starting a small business or buying a house in a rural community — live great lives in the rural communities they want to be in.”
In addition to the USDA funding, Sherva said Bank of North Dakota was also extremely helpful in securing financing, with a favorable rate on a $6 million loan.
“The legislators have done a good job putting money aside (for a loan program) for medical infrastructure,” Sherva said.
The need for care in rural communities isn’t going away any time soon. A hospital is often a good bellwether for a thriving community, Sherva said.
“If you look at a dying town, look and see if they have a hospital or clinic around them, or look and see if it went out of business,” he said. “We have talent that’s just as good as the urban areas. The providers that are in these rural areas are truly unique in that they are the epitome of what medicine should be. They want to take care of the whole person.”
USDA Rural Development State Director for North Dakota Erin Oban speaks during the groundbreaking of the Northwood Deaconess Health Center's renovations, scheduled to be completed in 2026. The critical access hospital received a $30 million loan from USDA Rural Development's Community Facilities Loan and Grant Program.
NDFU board tours sites for Founding Farmers expansion
In September, North Dakota Farmers Union board members got a behind-the-scenes look at two exciting expansions underway with Founding Farmers Restaurant Group: the new “Culinary Barn” and upcoming Founding Farmers Alexandria.
Located in Prince George’s County, Maryland, the “Culinary Barn” will be home for Founding Farmers Co. Catering & Events, as well as the restaurant company’s coffee roasting program, chocolate and pastry production, the Contact Center, and more. The company purchased the building in the past year and construction, including all new catering kitchen, is scheduled to be completed
Do you know a member who does something interesting or unique?
Let us know! We may feature them in the Union Farmer! Contact Editor Chris Aarhus at caarhus@ndfu.org.
by the end of October.
Construction is also moving forward with the company’s eighth restaurant. Scheduled to open in winter 2025, Founding Farmers Alexandria will operate 365 days a year, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, and special holiday menus.
Co-owner Dan Simons gave the tours of both locations, welcoming NDFU Chair Mark Watne, plus Bob and Brenda Kuylen, Bob Finken, Shane Sickler, Shelly Ziesch, and Ben Vig. It was a fun day to share the continued growth and development with the company’s farmer-owners.
North Dakota Farmers Union board members toured the site of NDFU's new, and eighth, restaurant in Alexandria, Va. Pictured from left to right is vice president Bob Kuylen, president Mark Watne, CEO Dan Simons, director Bob Finken, director Shelly Ziesch, Brenda Kuylen, director Shane Sickler and director Ben Vig.
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
FOR SALE
GRAVITY BOX, with Trailer; 1981 GMC Tandem axel Truck, former Senator Mark Andrews was original owner, truck has 3208 Cat Engine with Allison Automatic Transmission, 20 Foot Steel Box with 3 piece End Gate and Tarp; 1975 C-65 Chevrolet Tandem axel Truck, 20 Foot Metal Box, 3 piece End Gate and Tarp; 5400 White Aire Corn Planter; Melroe 903 6 Bottom Plow. 701349-5368, Dale Radermacher, Monango.
15-30 MCCORMICK TRACTOR, 1 New Tire LT245-75R-Load Range E. 2- Cream Separators, One David Bradley Metal Grain Box like new, 4-wheel Steel Running Gear, Covered Wagon Running Gear, Horse Potato Cultivator, Saddle and 2 Bridles. Two Antique Fanning Mills with sieves. One ‘The Clipper 1B’. and One ‘Hero-New Number 2. Old Antique Windows with wood frames. Some cream cans in good condition. Email: larryn@westriv.com. 701-548-8020, Larry Nagel, Shields.
01 JD 9750 Combine, PRWD, Cont Master, Eng4968/Sep-3331. Above avg condition; 2016 635F Flex Head w/ Crary Air Bar; Starfire 3000 Globe, New Shroud, Good Shape; JD 2014 DB60 PARTS: 36 JD Pro-Series XP Meters with Mini Hoppers/Trimble True Count Air Clutches/ Seed Tub Sensor Wire Harnesses 3 control boxes/Air tanks to run clutches for 3 row shutoff; Trimble Wiring/Hoses. 36+ Steel Closing Wheels & Dry Rate Controller. 701-321-5711, John Kempf, Ashley.
BINS, eight 2250 & 2500 bushel grain bins & one 3000 bushel drying bin with full floor aeration, bin sweep & unloading auger. Aeration panels for an 18 foot diameter bin. 701-4685554, Jim McGuire, Carpio.
FORD F-500, nice looking 1963 Ford F-500 truck. 292 V-8, 4-sp., 60K mi. 12ft. steel box w/ wood floor, hoist, folding stock rack and tarp. Items updated. Pics available. $3300 OBO. 701794-3185, Mark Erhardt, Center.
GRAIN CART, 450 bu. J-Kraft, 540 PTO drive, 12" folding unloading auger, hydraulic bottom gates and bin auger, roll tarp, 28LX26 good single tires, rear tow hitch, used seasonally, good condition, pictures available, able to reach over 9'4" truck box. $2750 OBO. 701-251-1486, Glen Nagel, Jamestown.
HAY RAKE, John Deere; Electric water pump; 2008 Honda Ranger 420, 4-wheeler. 701-2700184, Harold Severson, Lakota.
WINCH, Schwartz trailer, hydraulic winch, fold down sides, hydraulic beaver tail, hyd. Dolly; 2012 John Deere 640 flex draper, 40 ft, dual sickle, AHH in rigid, single point, hydraulic fore/aft, stubble lights. 701-320-1580, David Mutschler, Wimbledon.
FARM SCALE, antique farm scale with steel wheels; transition for adding aeration to an existing grain bin/screens/fans; old front tine rototiller, 3 triangular grain auger hoppers w/ straps/chains to fasten onto grain auger; Simer water pump; used nitrolator w/hyd shut off hoses; combine pickup guards/lifters. 701-6299003, Doug Halden, Stanley.
IH 1050 GRINDER MIXER with drag auger, good shape $2900. Layman chain stack mover works great for hauling big round bales $1800. 456 new holland mower recondition $3400. 300IH utility tractor with loader and 3 point and chains, runs good $3900. 7 ft lorenz snowblower, like new condition $3900. A IH tractor like new paint, good tires, great shape $2900. Can deliver any of these items. 701400-5742, Gerald Miller, Mandan.
SKID STEER, 2014 S750 Bobcat Skid Steer. Comes with bucket and pallet forks, 74hp (no def), 2953 hrs. A71 package with two speeds and hydraulic bucket positioning. Cab with AM/ FM radio deluxe sound, and HVAC headliner, along with air ride seat. Selectable joystick controls, auxiliary electrical harness, tires have 50%. - 60% tread left. Asking $34,500.00 OBO. 701-426-3369, Eugene Miller, Mandan.
TRACTORS, IH 706, 806, 1206, 856, 1256, 1456, 966, 1066, 1466, 1566, others; JD 5010, 5020, 4520, 4620, 6030, others; MM 950s on up; Olivers 1963 on up; ACs 200, 210, 220, D-21. Will buy all running or not. 701-6282130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley.
PONY DRILL, small pony drill or other small drill capable of seeding grass and alfalfa. Working condition is a plus. 701-320-6072, David Widmer, Baldwin.
GENERATOR, New never used Generac 12kw generator. Runs on LP. Handles 50 amps. Automatically kicks in when electricity goes off. $1500. Call for more information. 701-6291785, Clarence Kvamme, Palermo.
GENERATOR, Kawasaki, kg2900B, generator, 12 volt, 110 volt and 220 volt, new spark plug, oil change, new fuel line over hauled carburetor, new air filter fresh fuel runs great everything works, starts easy. 2900kv will supply you with ample power during those cold winter power outages. Pictures available upon request. $400. 701-840-2566, Lisa Puhr, Valley City.
GROCERY BUSINESS. Are you looking for a new business venture or to be your own boss? Look no further; Small Town Grocery Business For Sale. Located in Finley, ND. You can inquire in person, by phone or by email djbremer17@gmail.com. 701-524-2590, Danielle Bremer, Finley.
SIGNS/ANVILS, Metal signs and Anvils: Large painted tin John Deere sign, Co-op sign, Our Own Hardware sign, Benjamin Moore paint sign, and one large Elephant Fertilizer sign, plus Three Cast Iron sign bases and 4 anvils to choose from starting at $3 dollars to $4 per pound depending on condition. Trades welcome. 701-220-5746, Val Ganje, Bismarck.
RUNNING BOARDS, 2024 new factory installed crew cab 6 in. chrome rectangular wheel to wheel assist running boards, includes mounting hardware. Fits 2019-2024 GMC and Chevy crew cab models. MSRP $950, sell for $450. Also original factory installed skid plate with mounting hardware $25. Leave message if no answer. 701-222-2276, Clyde Fenster, Bismarck.
ANTIQUE TOOLS, Antique blacksmith tools ,cast iron Deere planter lids, cross cut saw & hand bow saw, cast iron buggy steps, antique wooden bar clamps, old screw jack, horse bridle heart remnant, old hand tools & wrenches.cast iron skyscraper tower bank. 701-368-9748, Michael Pitra, Jamestown.
MOTOR HOME, 2002 Trail Lite 21’ motor home. Vortex 8.1 gas engine with overdrive, auto trans. Bed in rear plus couch makes into bed. 51,500 miles, 4000 Owen generator. $8,400. 701-3911852, Marc Sundquist, Baldwin.
MILITARY ITEMS, WWI, WWII German, Japanese, and American Military Items: Uniforms, Helmets, Hats, Medals, Badges, Patches, Flags, Knives, Bayonets, Daggers, Swords, Leather Flight Jackets and Guns. Call or text. 701-2007125, John Grindahl, Fargo.
CLASSIC CARS, 1959 Chevrolet Impala, BelAir, Biscayne cars and parts. Any condition. 701680-5552, Dylan Ekstrom, Gwinner.
PRAIRIE DOG HUNTERS to hunt on my land. Make reservations now; Email: larryn@westriv. com. 701-548-8020, Larry Nagel, Shields.
OLD STUFF, ND license plates, ND picked arrowheads, ND small town metal trade tokens, ND older road signs, ND Highway Patrol metal door sign. Also looking for advertising signs, old gas pumps, old metal oil cans or most any thing that has advertising on it. I also buy Red Wing crocks. Will travel to your location. 701-2205746, Val Ganje, Bismarck.
Around the state
Burleigh County Farmers Union invited families for a fun day at Papa’s Pumpkin Patch. The board set up under a shelter, hosted a craft activity and handed out cold water and popcorn.
Sioux County Farmers Union hosted an appreciation lunch, feeding 200 people including high school and elementary students.
County conventions
Nov. 2 — Grant County Farmers Union annual meeting • 5 p.m. (Mountain Time) • Gottlieb Weller Community Center, New Leipzig.
Nov. 2 — Ward County Farmers Union annual meeting • 4 p.m. • Buffalo Wings and Rings, Minot.
Nov. 3 — Adams County Farmers Union annual meeting • 5 p.m. (Mountain Time) • The Gutter, Hettinger.
Nov. 3 — Barnes County Farmers Union annual meeting • 5:30 p.m. • Pizza Corner, Valley City • Meeting with dinner to follow. Free rollerskating for kids during meeting.
Nov. 3 — Towner County Farmers Union annual meeting • 3 p.m. • Rocklake Community Center • Coffee, desserts, door prizes.
Nov. 4 — Bowman-Slope Farmers Union annual meeting • 6 p.m. • The Edge, Bowman • Supper with meeting to follow.
Nov. 6 — McLean County Farmers Union annual meeting • 6:30 p.m. • Legion Hall, Turtle Lake • Dinner, with meeting to follow.
Nov. 8 — Logan County Farmers Union annual meeting • 6 p.m. • The White Maid, Napoleon • Dinner, with meeting and panel on the vital role of cooperatives to follow.
Nov. 10 — Steele County Farmers Union annual meeting • 2 p.m. • Senior Center, Hope.
Nov. 15 — Sheridan County Farmers Union annual meeting • 5:30 p.m. • McClusky Bar and Grill • Dinner, speakers, entertainment.
Nov. 17 — Burke County Farmers Union annual meeting • 2 p.m. • Cenex, Powers Lake • Dinner and meeting.
Nov. 17 — Dunn County Farmers Union annual meeting • 5 p.m. (Mountain Time) • Catholic Workmen's Hall, New Hradec • Supper with meeting to follow.
Nov. 18 — Richland County Farmers Union annual meeting • 6 p.m. • Black Pelican, Wyndmere • Dinner, with meeting to follow.
Nov. 18 — Stutsman County Farmers Union annual meeting • 6 p.m. • NDFU State Office, Jamestown • Dinner, with meeting to follow.
Nov. 19 — Divide County Farmers Union annual meeting • 6:30 p.m. • Bypass Restaurant, Crosby • Dinner, with meeting to follow.
Nov. 19 — Griggs County Farmers Union annual meeting • 6 p.m. • Cooperstown Pizza Ranch • Dinner, with meeting to follow.
Nov. 20 — Stark County Farmers Union annual meeting • 5:30 p.m. • Dickinson Recreation Center • Meeting with meal to follow. Youth swimming, pizza party.
Nov. 23 — McHenry County Farmers Union annual meeting • 6 p.m. • Drake KC Hall • Meeting with dinner and entertainment to follow.
