December 2012 Nebraska Farm Bureau News

NebraskaFarm Bureau NewsDECEMBER 12, 2012

VOL. 30 ISSUE 11

Property Tax Relief Chief Among Concerns Discussed by Delegatespage 13

Dawes County Members Win Young Farmers and Ranchers Contestspage 13

FB Holds Joint Reception with IANR To Honor Dr. Weldon Sleightpage 16

Apply Now for Scholarships and Loans from County Farm Bureauspage 19

Wrapping

Up 2012pages 14-15

2 DECEMBER 12, 2012 Nebraska Farm Bureau News

contents

On the CoverMembers celebrate Nebraska Farm Bureau at the 95th Annual Convention Dec. 2-4 in Kearney.

Photos by Tina HendersonPhoto Illustration by Tara Grell

In Every Issue3 County News4 Member Benefits5 What’s Cooking?13-16 Cover Story26 Want Ads

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 11 December 12, 2012

USPS 375-780 ISSN 0745-6522

Official publication of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation

402/421-4400www.nefb.org

Nebraska Farm Bureau’s Mission is Strong Agriculture

...... Strong Nebraska.

Yearly subscription: 50 cents of membership dues.

Associate Member, Nebraska Press Association

EDITORIAL STAFF

Editor/Advertising/Writer: Tina Henderson [email protected] or ext. 4446

Writer: Craig Head [email protected] or ext. 4435

Graphic Designer/County News/Photo Contest: Tara Grell [email protected] or ext. 4494

Want Ads and County Annual Meeting Notices: Shayna Truax [email protected] or ext. 4485

NEBRASKA FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Steve Nelson, president (Axtell)Mark McHargue, first vice president (Central City)Rob Robertson, chief administrator/ secretary-treasurer (Lincoln)

BOARD OF DIRECTORSSherry Vinton, second vice president (Whitman)Nathan Bartels (Elk Creek)Andy DeVries (Ogallala)Del Ficke (Pleasant Dale)Jason Kvols (Laurel)Myles Ramsey (Kenesaw)Scott Moore (Bartley)Kevin Peterson (Osceola)Tanya Storer (Whitman)Shelly Thompson (Whitney)

NEBRASKA FARM BUREAU NEWS is published monthly, except July, by Nebraska

Farm Bureau Federation, 5225 South 16th St., Lincoln, NE 68512. Periodicals postage paid at

Lincoln, NE and additional entry offices.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

Nebraska Farm Bureau NewsAttn: Tina Henderson

P.O. Box 80299, Lincoln, NE 68501.

Many times we talk about Farm Bureau being a family. It’s easy to see why after having spent a good part of the first week of December at our 95th Annual

Meeting in Kearney. The convention represents a chance to see old friends, make new ones, gather to enjoy good food and entertainment, and talk about the many issues that af-fect the way farm and ranch families make a living.

One the main messages in my Presidential address at the meeting was that much of the way that we look at the world lies in our attitude towards it and others. In life there are many things beyond our control. We do, however, control our attitude. To help make the point I shared a song by Wynnona Judd. The song’s refrain is very clear in its message, “There’s two ways to take what this ol’ life’s gonna throw at you. You can choose to win or lose. It’s all about attitude.”

That song resonates in light of the challenges that we face in agriculture heading into a new year. Whether it’s dealing with one of the worst droughts in our state’s history or working through a business and regulatory climate that continues to make it more difficult to bring young people home to the farm or ranch, how we deal with these chal-lenges lies greatly in our attitude.

I’ve heard State Sen. Tom Carlson say many times that next to the work of the church, we in agriculture are involved in one of the highest callings there is: raising food to feed a growing population. I’ve had the opportunity to listen to many great speakers and presentations, and the message I hear often and the one most staggering is that we will need to double food production by 2050 to meet the needs of an additional two billion projected to live on our planet. Talk about a challenge. I’m confident, however, that through hard work, technology, and the right attitude, we’ll meet the challenges that lay ahead.

KEEPING THE HOLIDAYS IN PERSPECTIVEOne of the other things I enjoy at convention is saying

thank you to those who help make Nebraska Farm Bureau successful. I’ve had many great opportunities to represent our members over the past year. It is a great honor to represent Farm Bureau and Nebraska agriculture. In March I had the privilege to travel to South Korea. The trip was scheduled around the passage of a new trade agreement which significantly reduces tariffs on U.S. products enter-

ing Korea and will have a very positive effect on Nebraska agriculture and our state’s economy moving forward. It was great to be able to talk with Korean importers about the quality of U.S. farm products and to see the potential that exists in Korea.

The trip was of interest for another reason. My father served in Korea during the Korean Conflict (it was a war, make no mistake about it). I have read considerably about the war and quite frankly wish my interest would have come sooner while my Dad was still living. My mother has shared letters she received from Dad while he was in the Army (they were dating at the time). I have read many of them. While sitting in one of the meetings in Korea it crossed my mind that I bet my father never thought his son would be in

Seoul 60 years later promoting U.S. farm products.

In his letters he talked about being able to save up money because there was nothing to spend it on and the Army provided all the cigarettes you wanted. He hinted in some of the letters that he would be able to buy something nice at a jewelry store when he got home (an engagement ring). He also said he planned to buy a new tractor. He did both, and as they say, the rest is history.

I share that story for a number of rea-sons. I would never have had the oppor-tunity to visit Korea if not for my involve-ment in Farm Bureau and for that I thank

you. It also reminds me during what can be an overwhelm-ingly busy holiday season of what’s truly important, our family and our friends. I know there are many families who have members serving our country, some home and some abroad. Many of them won’t be home for the holidays. To those in the military and to their families serving our great country, I say thank you. Our country wouldn’t be the same without you and your sacrifices aren’t forgotten.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The President’s MessageBy Steve Nelson, PresidentNebraska Farm Bureau Federation®

Attitude Is Key To Success

CorrectionsOn page 11 of the November Nebraska Farm Bureau News in a photo caption we said many of Con-gressman Smith’s staff had never been to Nebraska or a farm. All of Smith’s staff are either from or have visited Nebraska on previous occasions. We regret the error.

On page 11 of the November Nebraska Farm Bureau News in a photo caption we noted that Quen-tin Bowen was from Pawnee County and in fact he is from Rich-ardson County. We regret the error.

NFBF President Steve Nelson addresses members at NFBF’s 2012 Convention on Dec. 3 in Kearney.

Changes Made To Mailing of Nebraska Farm Bureau News

The cost of printing our Nebraska Farm Bureau News continues to rise, so to save money mailing changes have been imple-mented, Tina Henderson, editor of Nebraska Farm Bureau News, said Dec. 10.

“The cost of printing and mailing the publication to all of our Nebraska Farm Bureau members has be-come costly. It was decided that all Nebraska Farm Bu-reau members will receive the publication quarterly and our farmer and ranch-er members will receive the publication 11 times a year. If you are a Nebraska Farm Bureau member and would like to receive the publication 11 months a year, please contact me at [email protected] or at 800-/42-4016, ext. 4446,” Henderson said. Farmer and rancher members will automatically receive the newspaper 11 times a year.

We appreciate any thoughts or comments on this change.

Nebraska Farm Bureau News DECEMBER 12, 2012 3

The Staff at Nebraska Farm Bureau Wishes You and Your Family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

COUNTY NEWS

Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy (top photo) announced Nov. 30 in O’Neill the official designation of Holt County as Nebraska’s newest Livestock Friendly County. With the addition of Holt County, there are now 21 counties designated as Livestock Friendly through the state program, including Adams, Banner, Box Butte, Cuming, Dawes, Deuel, Gage, Garden, Grant, Hitchcock, Jefferson, Kimball, Keith, Lincoln, Morrill, Saline, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan, Wayne and Webster Counties. Additional information on the Livestock Friendly County program is available by visiting www.agr.ne.gov and clicking the Livestock Friendly County link. Pictured in bottom photo are Sheehy (left) and Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director Greg Ibach (right), presenting the Holt County Supervisors with the Livestock Friendly County designation.

Holt County Farm Bureau

Holt County Receives Livestock Friendly Designation

Box Butte County Farm Bureau is encouraging residents of Box Butte and Grant counties to lend a hand to lo-cal FFA Chapters in support of a statewide effort called “I Believe in the Future of Ag,” a capital campaign for the Nebraska FFA Foundation. “Box Butte County Farm Bureau is partnering with the FFA chapters at Alliance, Heming-ford and Hyannis High Schools during this regional effort in December and January,” said Mary Crawford, president of Box Butte County Farm Bureau. “Our board was asked by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation, as one of 17 corporate sponsors, to say ‘I Believe in the Future of Ag’ and the vibrant vo-ag education programs operating in our high schools.”

Vocational agriculture is growing in Nebraska, including some school systems such as Bridgeport Public Schools, which started an FFA program just this fall. There are now 145 FFA chapters across the state. Agricultural-related businesses in Hemingford, Berea, Alliance, Ellsworth, Ashby, Hyannis and Whitman will be asked to assist with this effort by donating and sharing a traveling FFA display in their business over the next two months. FFA chapters will receive 100 percent of their local donations, with enhanced gifts from the Nebraska FFA Foundation.

Box Butte County Farm Bureau

Box Butte County Farm Bureau Says ‘I Believe in the Future of Ag’

Ag producers in Box Butte County are lending a helping hand to neighbors in the north who were struck by wild-fires earlier this fall. At the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation’s annual meeting in Kearney Dec. 3-4, members of the Box Butte County Farm Bureau presented a $500 donation to Dawes County Farm Bureau members to go to Chadron Community Foundation Relief for fire recovery. Box Butte County members specified the donation is to be used for supplies such as feed or fencing materials. Pictured from left are Mary Crawford, Box Butte County Farm Bureau president; Natasha and Trisha Schumacher, Box Butte County Farm Bureau members; and Shelly and Thorpe Thompson, Dawes County Farm Bureau secretary and president.

Box Butte County Farm Bureau

County Farm Bureau Supports Fire Fund

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You wouldn’t think that Grainger, a lead-ing distributor of industrial supplies, tools and building material, would be a great place to do some Christmas shopping, but think again.

“With access to over 900,000 industrial supply products, from light bulbs to tools to batteries and office supplies, Grainger has everything you need for your home, office or business. There are two stores located in Omaha and Lincoln with the majority of their busi-ness available online. They have a printed catalog that will show you firsthand materials and every-day supplies needed for your home, office or business,” Roger Berry, vice president of member services, said.

Plus, Nebraska Farm Bureau members are entitled to many additional benefits, from discounts on products to free shipping at www.grainger.com.

Nebraska Farm Bureau members receive:• 10 percent DISCOUNT on all Grainger

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“You can receive same-day shipping on in-stock orders placed directly with the branch or on www.grainger.com by 5 p.m. local time, M o n d a y - F r i d a y .

Items will ship same day within the Con-tinental United States. Don’t forget to use the NFBF Grainger Account #855922449 to receive your discount,” Berry said.

If you operate a business and need ma-terials right away, there is a 24/7 toll-free emergency service number, 800/225-5994 (800/CALL-WWG).

Christmas Shopping at Grainger: Save Time and Money On Products You Can Use Every Day!

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WHAT’S COOKING?If you want to submit your own recipes, and photos if available, email [email protected].

No-Bake Energy Bites recipe from www.smashedpeasandcarrots.blogspot.com. Chocolate Oatmeal Chippers recipe from Nestle Toll House Morsels and Quaker Oats magazine ad. Apricot Oatmeal Muffins and Maple Oatmeal Bread recipes from Taste of Home’s Quick Cooking Magazine. All photos from Lois Linke, wife of Karl Linke, Nebraska Farm Bureau district director of member services for the southeast. Oatmeal Pancakes recipe from Empire Magazine, a supplement to

the Denver Post, in 1973 or 1974, submitted by Marian Beutler of Sheridan County; the extra touches for waffles come from Marian’s mom’s waffle recipe.

Ingredients3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons water (70º to 80º)1/3 cup maple syrup1 tablespoon vegetable oil1 teaspoon salt3/4 cup quick-cooking oatmeal2 1/2 cups bread flour1 pkg. (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

Directions1. In bread machine pan, place all ingredients in order suggested by manufacturer (usually liquids first followed by dry ingredients and yeast).2. Select the basic bread setting; choose crust color and loaf size.3. Bake according to bread machine directions (check dough after 5 minutes of mixing; add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water or flour if needed).

Yield: 1 (1 1/2 pound) loaf

Maple Oatmeal Bread

UPCOMING MONTHSBelow are themes for the coming months! Submit your recipe to: [email protected]

January – sweet potatoes and cherriesFebruary – noodles and sauceMarch – recipes with atypical ingredients (i.e. - fudge using Velveeta)

January Is National Oatmeal Month

Ingredients1 cup margarine or butter, softened1 cup firmly packed brown sugar1/2 cup granulated sugar2 eggs1 teaspoon vanilla1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour1/2 cup cocoa1 teaspoon baking soda1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)One 11-1/2-oz. pkg. milk chocolate chips2 cups oatmeal (quick or old fashioned)1 cup chopped walnuts

Directions1. Preheat oven to 350º F.2. Beat butter, sugars, eggs and vanilla until creamy.3. Gradually add combined flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt; mix well.4. Stir in remaining ingredients.5. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls (I use a small ice cream scoop) onto ungreased cookie sheet.6. Bake 9-10 minutes or until set. Cool 2 minutes on cookie sheet before transferring to a wire rack.7. Store tightly covered.

Yield: 3 1/2-4 dozen

Chocolate Oatmeal Chippers

Ingredients2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour1/2 cup packed brown sugar3 teaspoons baking powder1/2 teaspoon salt1 cup quick-cook oatmeal1 cup chopped dried apricots1/2 cup butter or margarine3/4 cup boiling water2 eggs, lightly beaten1 cup milk2 teaspoons grated orange peel, optional

Directions1. In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.2. In another bowl, combine the oatmeal, apricots, butter and boiling water; stir until butter is melted. Cool for 5 minutes.3. Add eggs, milk and orange peel to oatmeal mixture. Stir to combine.4. Pour liquid mixture into dry ingredients and stir just until moistened.5. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full.6. Bake at 400º F for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.7. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to a wire rack.

Yield: 1 1/2 dozen muffins

Apricot OatmealMuffins

Ingredients1 cup oatmeal (old fashioned is preferred – better fiber)1/2 cup peanut butter1/3 cup honey1 cup shredded coconut1/2 cu ground flaxseed1/2 cup mini chocolate chips 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions1. In a medium bowl, mix everything until thoroughly incorporated.2. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour. Once chilled, roll into walnut-sized balls and enjoy.3. Store in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week.

Yield: 18-20 bites

No-Bake Energy Bites


Ingredients1 1/2 cups quick-cooking oatmeal1/2 cup unsifted flour1 teaspoon salt1 tablespoon sugar1 teaspoon soda3 tablespoons peanut oil2 cups buttermilk1 egg, beaten1 teaspoon vanilla1/2 teaspoon maple flavoring

Directions1. Combine oatmeal, flour, salt, sugar and soda. Mix well.2. Add oil, buttermilk, egg, vanilla and maple flavoring. Mix thoroughly, stirring vigorously.3. Let batter stand at room temperature about 30 minutes.4. Drop mixture from spoon onto greased, hot griddle. About two soup spoonsful of batter will make one four-inch pancake.5. Cook over moderate heat until bubbles form on one side. Turn and cook until other side is golden brown.6. Serve with your favorite syrup.

Yield: serves four

Waffle variation: Follow preceding recipe, using two eggs instead of one. May also add two more tablespoons of oil or melted butter. For extra lightness separate eggs, put yolks with liquid ingredients, and add beaten egg whites just before baking waffles.

Oatmeal Pancakes

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Shelly Thompson, youth at-large member of the NFBF Board of Directors and Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee chair, gave the YF&R report to Farm Bureau mem-bers during the Awards and Recognition night Dec. 3.

Nebraska Farm Bureau To Launch New Website in First Part of 2013

Nebraska Farm Bureau will be launching a new website in 2013, Tara Grell, Nebraska Farm Bu-reau’s graphic designer, said Dec. 10.

“The new website will still be www.nefb.org and will be more user-friendly and offer Nebraska Farm Bureau members opportunities to personal-ize their experience when they come to the site,” Grell said.

There will be two website home pages: one for those who just visit Nebraska Farm Bureau and an-other for members only – members can register for an account with a username and password to access this content.

“You will be able to register after the new site is launched. We will have step-by-step instructions that will walk you through the process,” Grell said.

Keep checking www.nefb.org for the latest devel-opments on the website launch.

Follow Nebraska Farm Bureau on:

facebook.com/Nebraska.Farm.Bureau

search for Nebraska Farm Bureau on youtube.com

twitter.com/NEFarmBureau www.nefb.org

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Farm Bureau Identifies 2013 State Legislative Priorities

The Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors has identified the 2013 state legislative priorities for the organiza-tion. To be considered a priority, issues must meet criteria ensuring the issue has statewide impact, is of significant interest to County Farm Bureaus, and is meaningful to individual Farm Bureau members in the sense it impacts a farmer’s or rancher’s abil-ity to operate their farm or ranch or affects their ability to be profitable. The 2013 state legislative priorities are:

1. Protect the rights of farmers and ranchers to use commonly accepted farming and ani-mal care practices to operate their farms and ranches in a profitable and efficient manner.

2. Protect agriculture’s interests in water use, water management and compliance with interstate compacts and seek broad-based funding to address the state’s water challenges.

3. Create a better tax climate for farmers and ranchers by seeking reductions to agri-culture’s property tax burden, maintaining sales tax exemptions critical to agriculture, seeking repeal of the sales tax on agricul-tural equipment repair parts, and seek-ing other tax relief consistent with NFBF policy.

4. Work to assure assessed values for ag-ricultural land better reflect the land’s agri-cultural use value.

5. Ensure modifications to state commod-ity check-off programs are consistent with NFBF policy.

6. Assure regulations on farms and ranch-es are reasonable, flexible, based on scien-tific evidence, and do not unduly burden or financially harm farmers and ranchers.

7. Encourage the incorporation of agricul-ture literacy in K-12 schools curriculum.

Roger Berry (left), Nebraska Farm Bu-reau vice president

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Bureau President Steve Nelson put on

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NFBF President Steve Nelson (right) presides over the delegate session and First Vice President Mark McHargue moves the resolutions Dec. 4 at the Farm Bureau Convention.

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Nebraska Farm Bureau honored Dr. Weldon Sleight, dean of the University of Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture, with its Silver Eagle Award Dec. 4. Nebraska Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson (left) presented the award and cited Sleight’s innovations since joining the college at Curtis in 2006. Sleight worked to develop programs that enable NCTA graduates to become farm and ranch business owners, as well as highly trained employees.

Naomi Brummond of Thurston County, Donald Liedman of Wayne County and Shirley Neidig of Madison County look over the memorial display Dec. 3. Farm Bureau honors its leaders who have passed away during the past year.


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Sioux City, IAMankato, MN

USDA To Allow More Grains and Meats in School Lunches

The U.S. Agriculture Department, respond-ing to criticism over new school lunch rules, is allowing more grains and meat in kids’ meals. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack told members of Congress in a letter Dec. 7 that the department will do away with daily and weekly limits on meats and grains. Several law-makers wrote the department after the new rules went into effect in September, saying kids weren’t getting enough to eat. The new guidelines were intended to address increas-ing childhood obesity levels. They set limits on calories and salt, and phase in more whole grains. Schools must offer at least one vege-table or fruit per meal. The department also dictated how much of certain food groups could be served. Though broader calorie lim-its are still in place, the rules tweak will allow school lunch planners to use as many grains and as much meat as they want. In comments to USDA, many had said grains shouldn’t be limited because they are a part of so many meals, and that it was difficult to always find the right portion size of meat.

Proposed Waiver of Renewable Fuels Standard Concerns Nebraska Agriculture

In a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency, Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation President Steve Nelson voiced concerns about the proposed waiver of the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) for 2012 and 2013. “NFBF re-mains concerned that waiving the RFS could also have a negative impact, and create more uncertainty for agriculture and the economy in general,” he said. The top two concerns about the proposed waiver are that it will have un-certain impacts on corn prices and an uncer-tain overall impact on gasoline prices.

Revenue Committee Hears Alternatives for Counties If Inheritance Taxes Were Repealed

The Nebraska Legislature’s Revenue Com-mittee hosted an interim study hearing Nov. 30 to examine revenue replacement alterna-tives available to counties if the inheritance tax were to be repealed. The majority of tes-timony was offered by county officials in favor of retaining the inheritance tax as a source of county revenue, especially given that many counties already have low reserves and are up against their levy and spending limits.

Various proposals were offered as ways to address the effects on county budgets if the inheritance tax is repealed. On the rev-enue replacement side, these included: (1) raising property taxes (where possible to do so given levy lids); (2) shifting motor vehicle tax revenues from the schools to the coun-ties, which would in turn require additional state aid to schools; (3) counties collecting a flat annual fee from residents to fund op-erations rather than increasing the property tax; and (4) implementing a countywide sales tax. In terms of spending reductions, alternatives included: (1) pure cuts in spend-ing, with the county court system cited mul-tiple times as an area where savings could potentially be achieved; (2) shifting certain county responsibilities, such as bailiff and county assessor duties, to state-run pro-grams; and (3) exploring the potential for savings in the retirement benefit obligations to county employees. Farm Bureau did not offer testimony at this hearing.

Senate Votes To Permanently Normalize Trade Relations With Russia

On Dec. 6, the Senate voted overwhelm-ingly, 92-4 (with both Sens. Johanns and Nel-son voting in support), to give final Congres-sional approval to a House bill (H.R. 6156) that would permanently normalize trade relations with Russia. Farm Bureau has been very supportive of the measure. The bill would make permanent the trade status the U.S. has extended to Russia on an annual ba-sis. In 2011, the United States was the third-largest supplier in the Russian market, where imports of U.S. food and agricultural prod-ucts exceeded $1.3 billion. Russian retail food and beverage sales are forecast to increase

in real terms from just over $200 billion in 2010 to more than $240 billion by 2014 – a 20 percent increase. Certain and predict-able market access to Russia is another key reason Farm Bureau has been supporting the legislation. Forcing Russia to comply with the same international trade rules U.S. farm-ers and ranchers much comply with will go a long way in maintaining U.S competitiveness around the world. President Obama is ex-pected to soon sign the bill into law.

Gov. Heineman Sends Director Ibach to Agricultural Event in China

Gov. Dave Heineman announced Dec. 3 he would send Nebraska Agriculture Direc-tor Greg Ibach to Beijing, China, to repre-sent the state at a workshop designed to spark mutual U.S.-China investment in agri-culture and bioenergy. “As the most popu-lous country in the world, China already is an important part of Nebraska’s trade econ-omy,” Heineman said. “The opportunities there are endless, and we need to position our state to be actively engaged in events such as this workshop to maintain a com-petitive edge.”

“Seizing Investment Opportunities in Agribusiness: A U.S.-China Workshop” is being coordinated by The Paulson Institute, the Chinese Agricultural Association for In-ternational Exchange and the Chinese Min-istry of Agriculture. The event took place Dec. 7. Ibach was a presenter at a work-shop, discussing the opportunity for Chinese companies to add value to Nebraska-grown commodities within the state’s borders. The Paulson Institute is chaired by Henry M. Paulson, Jr., former U.S. Treasury secretary. The Institute is working to promote sustain-able, world economic growth and a cleaner environment, with its initial focus on actions by the governments and businesses of the United States and China. At the governor’s request, Ibach is serving as an adviser on the U.S.-China Agricultural Investment Experts Group of the institute.

AGnotes


New Look, New Leadership for State LegislatureWhen Nebraska’s state senators re-

turn to Lincoln Jan. 9 for the first session of the 103rd Legislature, things will look considerably different than when the body adjourned sine die last April. Gone are long-time mainstays who served in key leadership positions.

Among those departing are Speaker of the Legisla-ture Mike Flood, Revenue Committee Chair Abbie Cornett, Natural Resourc-es Committee Chair Chris Langemeier and Banking, Commerce and Insurance Chair Rich Pahls. Deb Fischer, who chaired the legislature’s Transporta-tion Committee, will be in Washington in January representing Nebraska in the U.S. Senate, and Lavon Heideman, who served as Ap-propriations Committee Chair, will be serv-ing as a University of Nebraska Regent. All of the changes result from term limits.

IMPACTS COULD BE PROFOUNDNebraska Farm Bureau Vice President

of Governmental Relations Jay Rempe says changes in the legislature could have a pro-found impact, particularly in the way agricul-ture issues are addressed around the capitol. “From an agriculture perspective, the 2013 body certainly will be different and bring dif-ferent perspectives to the issues. You can’t have that much turnover in leadership and make-up in the committees that address

agriculture issues and think things won’t be a little different. Nebraska Farm Bureau certainly looks forward to working with the new leadership and members.”

The extent of the change won’t be known until the lawmakers return. A total

of 11 new senators will take the oath of office in January. Ten of the 11 will be new to the legislature and one will return with many years of previous experience, Sen. Ernie Chambers of Omaha. In odd-numbered years, the Unicameral holds elec-tions for all of the lead-ership positions, meaning there could be change in more than just the leader-

ship seats vacated because of term limits. There will also be changes to the make-up of committees as returning senators move to different committees and newly elected members fill committee assignments.

COMMITTEE CHAIRS CONSIDER MOVES

“Change in committee chairs doesn’t necessarily mean those stepping in won’t have experience. It’s possible that some current chairs could simply change com-mittees,” Rempe said.

One of those could occur in the legisla-ture’s Agriculture Committee. Current Ag-riculture Committee chair, Sen. Tom Carl-son of Holdrege, has expressed interest in

moving over to lead the Natural Resources Committee. Sen. Mark Christensen of Im-perial has also expressed interest in that seat. Sen. Ken Schilz of Ogallala has ex-pressed interest in moving into the chair-manship of the Agriculture Committee.

Other committees could have current members move into the leadership posi-tion. Sen. Tom Hansen of North Platte has been serving on the Appropriations Committee for a number of years and has expressed interest in stepping into that leadership role, as has Sen. Heath Mello of Omaha. Similar situations exist in the Rev-enue, Education and Transportation Com-mittees with Sen. Galen Hadley of Kearney considering Revenue, Sen. Kate Sullivan of Cedar Rapids considering Education and both Sens. Annette Dubas of Fullerton and Scott Price of Bellevue considering bids for chair of the Transportation Committee.

NEW SPEAKER IS BIGGEST CHANGE

The biggest leadership change will come in the position of Speaker. Current Edu-cation Committee Chair Greg Adams of York has noted his interest in filling the void from the departure of Sen. Mike Flood.

“The Speaker controls the agenda of the legislature and wields a lot of power over what gets to the floor for debate. They set the tone and the way the body handles its business. Each speaker is a little different in their interests and approach so you would expect things will be different with some-one new in charge,” Rempe said.

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Kassi Williams Is New CSI Communications Coordinator

Kassi Williams of Omaha has accepted the communications coordinator position in Farm Bureau’s Communication Strategy and Issue Management Department, Tina Henderson, vice presi-dent of communication strategy, said Dec. 10. William’s first day with Nebraska Farm Bureau was Dec. 2.

Williams grew up on a farm in Knoxville, Iowa, where her family still farms, raising beef cattle, corn and soybeans. She is a graduate of Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in animal science, journalism and mass communications, with a special emphasis on public relations.

For the past two years, she has worked at Swanson Russell, a full-service advertising agen-cy serving agribusiness, animal health, outdoor recreation and health care clients in Omaha.

“Kassi will mainly focus on developing a long-term social media strategy for Nebras-ka Farm Bureau,” Henderson said. The strat-egy will include preparing a plan to influence the influencers in social media circles.

“It’s important to cultivate online influenc-ers, but it’s a very time-consuming process. Engaging with online influencers is impor-tant, particularly for an organization like Nebraska Farm Bureau. We are compet-ing for consumers’ attention on food issues at a time when the public is flooded with negative marketing messages about food. We are excited about examining this area of social media more and making a positive impact,” Henderson said.

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Tax Relief, Reform, Headline Issues Discussed by DelegatesNebraska Farm Bureau’s voting delegates

reiterated their support for efforts to reform Nebraska’s tax system as a means to pro-vide tax relief and help enhance Nebraska’s economic competitiveness. Property tax relief was chief among concerns discussed by delegates to the Nebraska Farm Bureau Convention held Dec. 3-4 in Kearney.

“When it comes to funding for schools, roads and other local infrastructure funded through property taxes, Nebraska farmers and ranchers continue to carry a dispropor-tionate share of the property tax load in ru-ral areas and that continues to be a major concern for our members,” said Jay Rempe, Nebraska Farm Bureau vice president of governmental relations.

Delegates noted that reducing property taxes in general and reducing the percent-age of property taxes paid by agriculture should be a priority in any future tax relief or reform efforts. The delegates expressed interest in looking at other ways to provide tax relief to farmers and ranchers, such as removing the sales tax on farm equipment repair parts.

NEED TO CONTROL SPENDING“There are numerous ways to deliver tax

relief, but controlling spending is a part of providing property tax relief. The House of Delegates renewed their support for levy caps and budget limits, in addition to calling on local governments to seek efficiencies,” Rempe said.

Management of Nebraska’s water re-sources was also a top issue for delegates as they lent support for the study and im-plementation of conjunctive management projects by Natural Resources Districts, irri-gation and power districts, and the Depart-ment of Natural Resources. Conjunctive management is a process that uses the con-nection between ground and surface water to maximize water use while minimizing im-pacts to stream flows and groundwater lev-els, in an effort to increase the overall water supply and stability of the supply.

“Agriculture doesn’t exist without water and Nebraska’s competitive advantage is heavily dependent upon our ability to man-age water in a way that allows for irrigation

and other agriculture uses, while also pro-tecting municipal, environmental and other water users,” Rempe said.

AERIAL FLYOVERS OPPOSEDDelegates also passed resolutions oppos-

ing EPA’s practice of aerial flyovers of live-stock farms for regulatory and surveillance purposes. The practice has been a point of contention for livestock farmers who are con-cerned about privacy and confidentiality of their farming operations. Delegates showed support for new federal trucking regulations that alleviate some of the burdens on farmers and ranchers in the transportation of agricul-ture commodities and equipment and called on the state of Nebraska to take action to comply with the new federal requirements.

The prospect of establishing a state beef checkoff program in addition to the national beef checkoff was also discussed by delegates. They lent support to the concept, provided a referen-dum vote of cattle producers supported such a program, no checkoff dollars would be used for lobbying, and the program would include refund provisions for those choosing not to participate.

Nancy Anderson of Dawes County Farm Bureau (center) was the winner of the 2012 Nebraska Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Discussion Meet contest held Dec. 3 in Kearney. Presenting her with the award, a $500 check and an iPad are Shelly Thompson, YF&R chair; and Steve Nelson, NFBF president.

Nancy Anderson of Crawford was se-lected as the winner of Nebraska Farm Bu-reau’s 2013 Young Farmers and Ranchers Discussion Meet and Luke and Erin Norman of Crawford were named the recipients of the 2013 Young Farmers and Ranchers Ex-cellence in Agriculture award. Both awards were given at the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation’s 95th Annual Convention, held Dec. 3-4 in Kearney.

Anderson received the top score of

four contestants who advanced to the fi-nal round of the Discussion Meet contest. Rather than debating, contestants work to develop a solution to a problem being dis-cussed, building on each other’s contribu-tions. Competitors in the annual contest must be prepared to speak on any number of agriculture-related topics; the selected question is announced a short time prior to the contest round. Anderson teaches fourth grade at Chadron Public Schools

and is involved in her family’s ranching op-eration.

Luke and Erin Norman were recognized for their ongoing involvement and com-mitment to agriculture. The Excellence in Agriculture Award is designed to recognize young farmers and ranchers for their contri-bution and involvement in Farm Bureau and agriculture. Candidates for the award are judged on their involvement in agriculture, leadership ability, involvement and participa-

tion in Farm Bureau and other civic, service and community organizations. Luke and Erin are the primary operators of the Norman Ranch in Dawes County.

Candidates for the awards are restricted to Farm Bureau members ages 18-35. Win-ners of the awards receive $500, an iPad, and an all-expense-paid trip to the Ameri-can Farm Bureau convention in Nashville, Tenn., in January to compete in the contests at the national level.

Anderson, Norman Family, Take Home Young Farmers and Ranchers Awards

YF&R Chair Shelly Thompson (left) and Steve Nelson, Nebraska Farm Bureau president (right), present Luke and Erin Norman of Dawes County with the Excellence in Ag award Dec. 3 during the Awards and Recognition night.

Farm Bureau delegates gathered in Kearney Dec. 4 at NFBF’s 95th Annual Convention to discuss state and national issues facing Nebraska farmers and ranchers.

Marilyn Sonderup of Nance County listens to grandson Ryan Sonderup, also of Nance County, as he discusses an issue Dec. 4 on the delegate floor at the 95th Annual Convention of the Nebraska Farm Bureau.

Doug Saathoff of Adams County asks a question on the delegate floor during the 95th Annual Convention of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Dec. 4.

Jeff Nichols of Scotts Bluff County speaks on an issue facing Nebraska farmers and ranchers during the delegate session on Dec. 4.


Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation®

95th Annual Convention

Dec. 2-4, 2012

KRVN broadcast live from Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation’s 95th Annual Convention Dec. 3. Pictured are NFBF President Steve Nelson (left) being interviewed by Marlin Bohling, KRVN associate farm director.

Russ Barelmann of Holt County enjoys Conversation, Cookies and Ice Cream Dec. 3.

Deb Fischer thanked Nebras-ka Farm Bureau

members and staff during the NFBF Banquet

Dec. 4 for their hard work in helping to get her elected to

the U.S. Senate.

NFBF’s 95th Annual Convention keynote speaker was Damian Mason, a professional speaker, entertainer, writer, businessman and farm owner. He is known as “Agricul-ture’s Professional Funny Man” and he kept members on the edge of their seats laughing.

Dr. Ross Korves, an independent econom-ic policy analyst, led a workshop Dec. 3 at NFBF’s 95th Annual Convention. He dis-cussed the farm bill and gave an ag econo-my analysis.

Aaron Davis, inspirational and motiva-tional speaker, stops to pose for a photo Dec. 4 while emceeing the Farm Bureau Banquet Dec. 4.

Gary Hellerich of Lancaster County hys-terically laughed during Damian Mason’s keynote address Dec. 3.

Gov. Dave Heineman spoke to Nebraska Farm Bureau members and others in at-tendance at the NFBF Annual Banquet Dec. 4.

Ben and Jamie Keep of Howard County take a look at the details of Nebraska Farm Bureau’s new website that will launch in 2013.

Dr. Weldon Sleight, dean of the University of Nebraska College of Technical Agricul-ture, and Alan Moeller, IANR assistant vice chancellor, enjoy listening to Aaron Davis at NFBF’s Annual Banquet Dec. 4.

Fred and Darlene Tonack of Doug-

las County load their ice cream

with yummy toppings during Conversation,

Cookies and Ice Cream Dec. 3.

Gary Lindgreen of Merrick County looks over NFBF’s Annual Report during Chief Ad-ministrator/Sec-retary-Treasurer Rob Robert-son’s report to Nebraska Farm Bureau delegates on Dec. 3.

Younes Conference Center

Kearney, NE

Photos byTina Henderson

and Kassi Williams

Rikk Wilde of GM gives away a 50-inch TV to Barb Batie of Dawson

County on Dec. 3.

Members of all ages enjoyed NFBF’s

95th Annual Convention! Jena Ziemba of Daw-son County and her four-month-

old daughter Molly laugh during

Damian Mason’s keynote speech on

Dec. 3.

NFBF’s 95th Annual Convention banquet entertainment was No Better Cause, an award winning pop/soul/funk vocal a cappella band hailing from Lincoln. Dawn Caldwell of Clay County was serenaded by the group which consists of Nate Kellison - tenor (left), Bill Catlett - bass, T.J. Saddler - tenor, Lucas Kellison - tenor and Michael Evans - beatbox/vocal percussion.

Shane Greckel of Knox County, John Temme of Wayne County, Nancy Anderson of Dawes County and Brian Gould of Cedar County participated in the Young Farmers and Ranchers Discussion Meet contest Dec. 3.

Glynn Fagerstone of Hayes County stops by the Agriculture in

the Classroom ex-hibit to sign an apple

post-it note saying that she believes students

should be taught about agriculture in school.

Nebraska Farm Bureau and AITC launched the

“Teacher … Why Is Agriculture Important

To Nebraska?” cam-paign during NFBF’s

95th Annual Conven-tion Dec. 3.


Kyle Perry, American Farm Bureau Federation director of leadership development, led the Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee and Ag Promotion Committee training Dec. 4. He taught committee members ways to generate and organize ideas.

Kathy Kvols of Cedar County debates whether or not to bid on an item at the silent auction on Dec. 3.Larry Hadan and Ryan Ueberrhein of

Douglas County enjoy keynote speaker Damian Mason.


Farm Bureau and IANR Reception Honoring Weldon SleightDec. 4, 2012 • Younes Conference Center – Kearney, NE • Photos by Tina Henderson

Sen. Tom Carlson congratulates Dr.

Weldon Sleight, dean of the Uni-

versity of Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture at Cur-tis, on receiving the Silver Eagle Award

from Nebraska Farm Bureau on Dec. 4.

NU Vice President and IANR Harlan Vice Chancellor Ronnie Green (obscured) and Alan Moeller, IANR assistant vice chancellor (right) present Dr. Weldon Sleight, dean of the University of Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture, with a print during the Farm Bureau and IANR Reception at the NFBF Convention on Dec. 4.

NU Vice President and IANR Harlan Vice Chan-cellor Ronnie Green says a few words about Dr. Weldon Sleight, dean of the University of Ne-braska College of Technical Agriculture, who will retire this month.

Farm Bureau members, UNL leaders and dignataries listen to a presentation for Dr. Weldon Sleight, dean of the University of Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture at Curtis, during the Farm Bureau and IANR Reception honoring Sleight.

Kathy and Jason Kvols of Cedar County Farm Bureau (left) and Beverly and Bob Kremer of Hamilton County Farm Bureau listen to speakers at the Farm Bureau and IANR Re-ception at the NFBF Convention on Dec. 4.

Sen. Tom Hansen congratulates Dr. Weldon Sleight, dean of the Uni-versity of Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture at Cur-tis, on his retirement this month, during the Farm Bureau and IANR Reception at the NFBF Conven-tion Dec. 4.

Former NFBF President Bryce Neidig catches up with former NFBF Chief Administrator/Secretary-Treasurer Doug Gibson during the Farm Bureau and IANR Reception at the NFBF Conven-tion.

Farm Bureau mem-bers Karen Am-

mon, Jim Sybrant, Loren Ammon all

of Rock County and David Endorf

of Jefferson County socialize during the

Farm Bureau and IANR Reception at the NFBF Conven-

tion on Dec. 4.


Nebraska Farm Bureau recognized the 2012 Top 10 most active participants in FB ACT at its annual convention in Kearney Dec. 3. FB ACT members respond to Action Alerts to contact state and federal lawmakers or other public officials on current issues and pending legislation. Pictured from front left are Erma McGill, Lancaster County; Rosie Sugden, Johnson County; Hilary Maricle, Boone County; LaDene Rutt, Deuel County; and Jean Thunker, Keith County. Back row from left are David Grimes, Lancaster County; Duane Sugden, Johnson County; Kent Lorens, Hitchcock County; Bill Lueck, Sherman/Valley County; and Wayne Thunker, Keith County.

GM PRIVATE OFFER Benefi ts Farm Bureau Members:

To qualify for the offer, individuals must have been a Farm Bureau member for at least 60 days prior to the date of delivery of the vehicle selected. Members may receive the incentive for the purchase or lease of multiple vehicles, including fl eet vehicles purchased through GM’s National Fleet Purchase Program. Full details and program eligibility guidelines are available by contacting Shelley Kurtzer, associate director of member services or visiting www.nefb.org.

Eligible Farm Bureau members in Nebraska can now receive a $500 discount on each qualifying 2011 or 2012 model year Chevrolet, GMC or Buick vehicle they purchase or lease. This Farm Bureau member exclusive is offered for vehicles purchased or leased at participating dealerships through Farm Bureau’s - GM PRIVATE OFFER at a participating GM dealership.

Twenty-six GM models are part of the program, including the Chevrolet Silverado HD, honored as the 2011 Motor Trend Truck of the Year. A broad range of other pick-up trucks, SUVs, sedans and crossovers also are included in the program.

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Rob Robertson gives his report to the delegates as chief administrator/secretary-treasurer of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation on Dec. 3.


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Nebraska Farm Bureau Names 2013 Leadership Academy MembersTen farmers and ranchers from across

Nebraska have been selected for Nebraska Farm Bureau’s 2013 Farm Bureau Leadership Academy leadership development program. They will begin the program on Jan. 31 and Feb.1 in Kearney. “The academy is a series of seminars designed to develop and retain leaders for County Farm Bureaus and the state organization,” said Roger Berry, acad-emy coordinator and vice president of mem-ber services for Nebraska Farm Bureau.

“The academy curriculum focuses on the opportunities for leadership within Farm Bu-reau and the opportunity to influence pub-lic policy through a Farm Bureau leadership role, both at the county and state level,” he said.

Academy members will participate in ses-sions on entrepreneurial thinking, under-standing the county/state/national structure of Farm Bureau and its grassroots policy process, policy issues important to agricul-ture, issue management, relationship build-ing, presenting viewpoints, and media train-ing, including use of social media.

Participants attend two-day seminars in January, February, March and August. In Sep-tember the group will travel to Washington, D.C., for visits with Nebraska’s Congressio-nal delegation and federal agency represen-tatives. Academy participants are expected to increase their leadership involvement in Farm Bureau upon completion of the pro-gram, Berry said.

The 2013 Farm Bureau Leadership Acad-emy members are:

Marvin Andel of David City is a member of Butler County Farm Bureau. He raises corn, soybeans, alfalfa and sheep. He also operates a custom hay baling operation.

Nancy Anderson of Crawford is a member of Dawes County Farm Bureau. She and her husband operate a cow-calf and cattle feeding operation.

Shane Greving of Chapman is a member of Merrick County Farm Bureau. He raises seed corn, field corn, soybeans and winter wheat. Greving also partners in a custom seed corn harvesting business.

Stephanie Hruby of Hemingford is a member of Dawes County Farm Bureau. She and her husband have a cow-calf opera-tion and also operate a well and windmill

business that installs and services domestic and livestock wells, windmills, solar pumps and septic systems.

Matthew Krenk of Pleasant Dale is a member of Seward County Farm Bureau. He farms with his brother, raising corn, soy-beans and wheat. He also holds a position with Cargill, Inc.

Melodie Loostrom of Maxwell is a member of Lincoln County Farm Bureau. She is involved in her family’s cow-calf and

cattle feeding operation. They also raise al-falfa, grass hay and silage.

Karah Perdue of York is a member of York County Farm Bureau. She is involved in a dryland corn and soybean operation and has been active in working on projects for the County Farm Bureau.

Julie Reed of Lincoln is a member of Lancaster County Farm Bureau. She and her husband are involved in a precision agricul-ture business and family farm operation. She has also been a member of Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers and Ranchers program.

Andrew Schmidt of Deshler is a member of Thayer County Farm Bureau. He farms with his father and raises corn, soybean and wheat on irrigated and dryland acres. The family’s farm also includes a cow-calf and cattle feeding component.

Ryan Ueberrhein of Elkhorn is a member of Douglas County Farm Bureau. He raises corn and soybeans near Valley and is also involved in raising sheep with his father.

One of the highlights of the 2012 Ne-braska Farm Bureau Leadership Academy was the September trip to Washington, D.C., during which academy members joined with Farm Bu-reau members from across the country and representatives of 88 agriculture, conservation, con-sumer and nutrition organizations to urge Congress to pass a farm bill.

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Adams County: 3 scholarships awarded for ag-related field; $500 each; for seniors in Adams and Webster counties, preferably Farm Bureau members.

Antelope County: 2 scholarships awarded; $250 each; contact county office: 402/887-4842.

Blaine County: 2 $200 scholarships awarded; for Farm Bureau members; con-tact Margie Lloyd at 308/547-0420.

Boone County: 1 scholarship awarded; $300; applications due April 1; for Farm Bureau members in Boone County; contact Sharon Ketteler at 402/678-2574.

Buffalo County: 4 scholarships awarded; $500 each; ag-related field preferred and must live in Buffalo County; applications due April 1; contact Sara Everett at 308/234-2222.

Burt County: Up to 6 scholarships award-ed; $500 each; for Farm Bureau members in Burt County; contact Larry or Kathy Mus-sack at 402/374-2588.

Clay County: 2 scholarships awarded; ag-related field; $250 each; contact Clay Coun-ty Farm Bureau at 402/469-5033.

Cuming County: 2 scholarships awarded: 1 for $500 and 1 for $300; for Farm Bureau members in Cuming County; contact Den-nis Schultz at 402/529-6433.

Custer County: Up to 5 $300 scholar-ships awarded; ag or ag-related field; appli-cations due April 1; contact Ken Byam at 308/935-1820.

Dawson County: 3 scholarships awarded with preference for ag-related field; $500 each; Farm Bureau members only; contact Dawson County Farm Bureau at 308/324-4000.

Dixon County: 2 scholarships awarded; $500 each; for Farm Bureau members in Dixon County; contact Martey Stewart at 402/584-2252.

Dodge County: 1 scholarship awarded; $500; applications due May 1; ag-related field; contact David Saalfeld at 402/652-8678.

Douglas County: Must belong to a family that has been a Douglas County Farm Bu-reau member three years or more; graduate of a Douglas County High School; cumula-tive GPA of no less than 3.0; application must be submitted by March 15; contact Douglas County Farm Bureau at 402/991-1433 or [email protected].

Dundy County: 2 scholarships awarded to Farm Bureau members only; $250 each; given to students in 2nd, 3rd and 4th year; contact Dundy County Farm Bureau at 308/423-2223.

Frontier County: $500 to Frontier County Youth Ambassador; 2 scholarships awarded for ag-related field; $500 each; residents of Frontier County only; contact Frontier County Farm Bureau at 308/367-4350.

Hayes County: 2 scholarships awarded to Farm Bureau members only; $100 each;

contact Hayes County Farm Bureau at 308/286-3431.

Holt County: Holt County Memo-rial Scholarship Fund; 2 $500 scholarships awarded to Farm Bureau member families; preference to applicants entering an ag-related field; contact Farm Bureau office in O’Neill or Atkinson.

Howard County: 1 scholarship award-ed; $500; ag-related field and preference to Howard County members; applications due April 13; contact Margie Townsend at 308/754-5481.

Kearney/Franklin County: A total of $1,000 to Kearney/Franklin County stu-dents; ag-related field has priority; contact Kearney/Franklin County Farm Bureau at 308/832-2290.

Keith County: 3 scholarships awarded in the amount of $150 each; must be a Keith County member; contact Sherry Gies at 308/239-4497.

Kimball-Banner County: 2 scholarships awarded for ag-related field; $250 each; ap-plications due April 15; contact Beverly At-kins at 308/682-5647.

Knox County: 6 scholarships awarded; $250 each; for Farm Bureau members in Knox County; contact Knox County Office at 402/373-4600.

Lancaster County: The Lancaster Coun-ty Farm Bureau Scholarships are adminis-tered by Southeast Community College and by the University of Nebraska Founda-tion for UNL and NCTA. Students who are residents of Lancaster County and /or who graduate from a high school in Lancaster County are eligible to apply for a scholar-ship. They need to pursue a course of study in agriculture at Southeast Community Col-lege or NCTA or declare a major in the In-stitute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at UNL. Students who are interested in a

scholarship need to contact the school they plan to attend. Information available from Herschel Staats at 402/483-5673.

Lincoln County: Kent Boyer Memorial Scholarship administered by Community Foundation to graduating senior majoring in agriculture. Applicants must demonstrate fi-nancial need. Contact Lincoln County Farm Bureau at 308/534-9694.

Lincoln County: 2 $500 scholarships; contact Lincoln County Farm Bureau at 308/534-9694.

Madison County: 2 scholarships award-ed; $250 each; for Farm Bureau members in Madison County; contact the Madison County office at 402/371-1520.

Merrick County: Up to 3 scholarships awarded; available to Farm Bureau mem-bers; contact the Merrick County office at 308/946-3893.

Morrill County: 2 $300 scholarships awarded; preference to agriculture majors; available to Morrill County members; con-tact Regina Rhodes at 308/262-0858.

Nance County: 1 scholarship awarded; $200; ag-related field; applications due April 1; contact Bob McNeff at 308/536-2836.

Perkins County: $1,000 each year, this year 2 scholarships of $300 and 1 of $400; must be Farm Bureau member; ag-related field; contact Perkins County Farm Bureau at 308/352-4320.

Pierce County: 1 scholarship awarded; $250; for Farm Bureau members in Pierce County; contact Pierce County office at 402/329-6284.

Platte County: 2 scholarships awarded; $500 each; ag-related field with preference to Platte County members; applications due April 15; contact Stan Rosendahl at 402/285-0469.

Polk County: 2 scholarships awarded;

$300 each; contact Abbie Peterson at 402/747-2186.

Rock County: 1 scholarship awarded; 1 $100 nursing scholarship; contact Loren Ammon at 402/244-5304.

Saline County: 2 scholarships awarded; $250 each; ag-related field; must be a Saline County member; contact Debbie Lorenz at 402/826-4028.

Scotts Bluff County: 3 scholarships awarded; $500 each; applications due April 14; contact Shannon Kampbell at 308/632-3082.

Sarpy County: 1 or more scholarships awarded; $500; applications due July 1; ag-re-lated field; must be a Sarpy County member; can reapply and extend for 4 years; contact Sarpy County office at 402/339-8778.

Saunders County: 1 or more scholar-ships awarded; $250; applications due April 1; ag-related field; must be a Saunders County member; contact Sharon Vermeline at 402/443-3205.

Thayer County: $500; 1 scholarship awarded; for Thayer County resident with plans to study an ag or ag-related field; due date is March 1; contact the Thayer Coun-ty office at 402/768-6218.

Thurston County: 2 scholarships award-ed; $250 each; for Farm Bureau members in Thurston County; contact Joel Lamplot at 402/385-2452.

Washington County: 4 scholarships awarded; $1,000 each; must be a Washing-ton County member for a minimum of 2 years; due date is March 15; contact Judy Geisler at 402/654-3685.

Wayne County: 1 scholarship award-ed; $1,000; contact Donald Liedman at 402/585-4725.

York County: 1 scholarship awarded; $500; contact Jerry Stahr at 402/366-0602.

Apply Now for Scholarships and Education Loans

County Farm Bureau Education Scholarships

Nebraska Farm Bureau is accepting appli-cations for education loans and scholarships through the Charles Marshall Loan Fund and two scholarship programs, Cathy Day, director of special programs, said Dec. 11.

“We want to make our members aware of the availability of these programs and en-courage them to apply,” she said.

CHARLES MARSHALL LOANSThe Charles Marshall Loan Fund uses funds

contributed voluntarily by Farm Bureau mem-bers. These funds are available to worthy individuals enrolled for training in accredited institutions. The Farm Bureau Ag Promotion Committee sponsors the loan fund program as a part of its overall program of work. Ap-

plicants are able to apply more than once, but new applications are required each year.

“Also there were two major changes to the loan application: the financial state-ment and County Farm Bureau Board form are no longer required. However, the ap-plicant’s answer to the question ‘To what extent is your training dependent upon this loan’ will be weighed heavily,” Day said.

Applications are due July 1, 2013 and are open to all Farm Bureau members.

KENNETH SCHWARTZ SCHOLARSHIP

The scholarship fund was established by the family of the late Kenneth E. Schwartz, who was executive vice president of Farm

Bureau Insurance Company of Nebraska at the time of his death in 1987.

The Schwartz family has established these qualifications: Applicants must be juniors or seniors at the University of Nebraska-Lin-coln who are majoring in an agricultural or agriculture-related program, including agri-business. Applications may be made during the sophomore or junior year. Applicants must have demonstrated satisfactory aca-demic performance during their freshman and sophomore years at UNL. They must be members of a currently paid Farm Bu-reau family in Nebraska. Neither gender nor rural or urban status is a factor in selection. Applications are due May 31, 2013.

GREATER HORIZONThe Greater Horizon Scholarship is

awarded to a student aged 18 to 35 who is from a Farm Bureau member family, plans to study an agriculture-related field full-time at a college or university, and plans to re-turn to production agriculture. The appli-cant must demonstrate leadership potential through extracurricular activities and work experience. The deadline for the application is May 1, 2013. Up to two $1,000 scholar-ships may be awarded.

To apply for any of these programs, use the forms available on the Nebraska Farm Bureau website at www.nefb.org, or contact Cathy Day at 800/742-4016 ext. 4750.

Nebraska Farm Bureau is accepting applications for scholarships from students needing assistance in paying for college.


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Delegates to Nebraska Farm Bureau Fed-eration’s 95th Annual meeting urged Con-gress and the president to take action be-fore year-end to pass a farm bill and extend a number of tax provisions that are vital to the future success of American agriculture. The action came in the form of a special resolution adopted by the House of Del-egates. “Nebraska farm and ranch families are facing considerable uncertainty in both our nation’s farm and tax policy. We need swift action in Washington to bring certainty in these areas,” said Steve Nelson, Nebraska Farm Bureau president.

Passage of an agricultural safety net via the 2012 farm bill is important to both Ne-braska and American agriculture. The ex-ceptional drought experienced across Ne-braska and much of the country highlights the continued need for federal crop insur-ance, livestock disaster programs, and other important farm bill programs. “With expi-ration of the 2008 Farm Bill having already occurred over a month ago, the lame-duck session of Congress provides the last op-portunity to move forward with the farm bill yet this year,” Nelson said.

100+ TAX PROVISIONS TO EXPIRE

More than 100 different tax provisions are set to expire at the end of 2012, in-cluding the current estate tax rate of 35 percent with an exemption of $5.1 million per person; a 15-percent capital gains tax rate; lower personal income tax rates; and

numerous other tax credits and deductions such as equipment depreciation and the biodiesel tax credit. If Congress fails to act before the beginning of January, estate tax rates rise to 55 percent with an exemption of only $1 million, capital gains taxes rise to 20 percent and all personal income tax rates rise between 3 and 5 percent.

A reduction in the estate tax exemption amount alone would dramatically affect the number of Nebraska farms and ranches that would be exposed to estate tax liability. Re-search conducted by the American Farm Bureau Federation shows that lowering the estate tax exemption from $5 million to $1 million would increase the number of Nebras-ka farms and ranches that exceed the estate tax exemption from 1,628 farms and ranches to more than 15,000 farms and ranches.

ESTATE TAX WOULD AFFECT MANY MORE

“We’re talking about a nine-fold increase in the number of farms and ranches that could face the implications of the death tax when you combine a reduction in the estate tax exemption with the appreciation in agricul-tural land values in recent years,” Nelson said.

“Passing a farm bill and extending the 2012 federal tax provisions are critically important to our members because both greatly affect how our members make deci-sions related to their operations. The res-olution adopted by our delegates sends a strong signal that now is the time for action on these issues,” he said.

Christmas trees are more than just the celebration of life during the holidays, they’re a source of life after it. Each year more consumers are discovering the recy-clable, renewable benefits of real Christmas trees.

Real Christmas trees – unlike ar-tificial ones which aren’t biodegrad-able and will re-main in landfills for centuries after they’re disposed of – can give some-thing back to the environment in a variety of ways.

Christmas trees are biodegrad-able – the trunk and branches can be used as mulch for gardens, parks or in animal stalls. The mulch pro-vides a protection barrier for the roots of plants and vegetation while preventing weeds from growing. The mulch then decomposes, providing the nutrients plants need to thrive.

Mulching programs are a fast-growing

trend in communities throughout the state. Check with your local department of public works for information.

Some communities use Christmas trees to make effective sand and soil

erosion barri-ers, especially at beaches and on river beds. Sunk into private fish ponds, trees make excellent refuge and feeding area for fish. Before re-cycling, Christmas trees can be used to make bird feed-ers, adding color and excitement to the winter garden. Use orange slices, suet and seed to attract the birds. They will come for the food and stay for the shelter in the branches.

Important: Never burn your Christ-

mas tree in a fireplace or wood stove. Burning the tree may contribute to creo-sote buildup.

Excerpts from http://www.iowachristmas-trees.com/recycling.html

Delegates Urge Prompt Action on Farm Bill, Extension of 2012 Tax Provisions

Christmas Trees Take on a New Life After the Holidays

Real Christmas trees, unlike artificial trees, can give something back to the environ-ment in a variety of ways.

Delegates to the Nebraska Farm Bureau Convention re-elected Mark McHargue of Central City as the organization’s first vice president Dec. 4 in Kearney. They also elected or re-elected three members of Farm Bureau’s Board of Directors.

McHargue has been a Farm Bureau mem-ber for 26 years. He and his wife Judi have four children. They have a hog and row crop operation on 600 acres near Central City.

Nathan Bartels of Elk Creek was re-elected to represent Farm Bureau District 1 which covers Cass, Douglas, Gage, Johnson, Lancaster, Nemaha, Otoe, Pawnee, Rich-ardson, Sarpy and Saunders counties. Bar-tels has been a Farm Bureau member for 33 years. He and his wife Jolene have four children. They have irrigated and dryland corn and soybeans and hogs on 400 acres near Elk Creek.

Don Benner of Central City was re-elect-ed to represent Farm Bureau District 2 which covers Boone, Burt, Colfax, Cuming, Dodge, Merrick, Nance, Platte, Stanton and Wash-ington counties. Benner has been a Farm Bu-reau member for 29 years. He and his wife Karen have three grown children. They have a corn, soybean and seed corn row crop op-eration on 1,500 acres near Central City.

Myles Ramsey of Kenesaw was elected to represent Farm Bureau District 5 which includes Adams, Buffalo, Franklin, Greeley,

Hall, Howard, Kearney, Phelps, Sherman, Valley and Webster counties. Ramsey has been a Farm Bureau member for 32 years. He and his wife Mary have three grown chil-

dren. They have a mostly no-till row crop operation on 1,600 acres near Kenesaw.

All terms on the Nebraska Farm Bureau Board are for three years.


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NFBF Delegates re-elected Mark McHargue of Merrick County as first vice president. They also re-elected Nathan Bartels, District 1 director from Johnson County, and Don Benner, District 2 director from Merrick County. Myles Ramsey of Adams County was elected to represent District 5. Pictured from left are McHargue, Bartels, Ramsey and Benner.

Delegates Elect Four to State Board

To view more photos fromNFBF’s 95th Annual Convention

visit www.flickr.com/photos/nefarmbureau/


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Lincoln — Current forecasts suggest the state will not see any significant in-crease in precipitation this winter to re-verse the drought, according to the state climatologist at the University of Nebras-ka-Lincoln.

“We’re probably going to see a more normal winter,” said Al Dutcher, state cli-matologist in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at UNL.

December through February typically is a dry period for the state, he said. “To elimi-nate the drought, we would have to set a record snow season, and even then, I don’t know if it would be enough,” he said.

Those hoping winter will be more like last year’s with above-normal temperatures also are most likely out of luck.

Dutcher said the critical period to de-termine if the state will have another sig-nificant drought will be March into next

spring. “It’s going to take an exceptionally wet pattern next April through May to have a decent shot at reducing the drought,” he said.

EL NINO NOT LIKELY

Dutcher said as the state progress-es through this fall, forecasts are back-ing off on a project-ed El Nino event, which would typi-cally bring cooler and wetter condi-tions to the south-ern one-third of the United States.

“Models were indicating a potential El Nino into the late summer, but sea surface

temperatures haven’t cooperated,” he said.Sea surface temperatures must average

at least 0.9 Fahren-heit above normal for three consecu-tive months in the central and eastern Pacific Equatorial Basin to qualify for an El Nino weather pattern.

“There will be occasional bursts of the southern jet that will resemble El Nino, but then we’ll have a more normalized winter

pattern with a big player being the northern jet stream,” he said.

Dutcher said the problem last winter was

La Nina and the northern jet remained far north and kept very cold air from infiltrat-ing the southern and northern plains. Cur-rently the state is not in a La Nina or El Nino weather pattern.

‘DECENT’ SNOW IN CANADADutcher said the northern jet stream

already has carved out significant trough-ing east of the Rocky Mountains, bringing decent snow pack in central and southern Canada and the northern third of North Dakota.

“Therefore, we do have a snow founda-tion in place, so that will make a big differ-ence. It should reduce the likelihood that we’ll see the extent of the above-normal temperature pattern that we experienced last winter,” he said.

Dutcher said portions of the Nebraska Panhandle have accumulated nearly half the snow they received last year.

Normal Winter Forecast, But April Showers Could Bring Drought Relief

Nebraska needs moisture and forecasts show no significant precipitation this winter.

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Lincoln — Farmers and ranchers in Ne-braska will soon have the opportunity to make a positive impact on their communi-ties by participating in the 2012 Census of Agriculture. Conducted every five years by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Na-tional Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), the census is a complete count of all U.S. farms and ranches and those who operate them.

“The census is the only source of uniform, comprehensive agricultural data for every county in the nation,” said Dean Groskurth, director of the Nebraska Field office of NASS. “It’s a critical tool that gives farmers a voice to influence decisions shaping the future of their community, industry and op-eration.”

CENSUS AFFECTS DECISIONSThe census looks at land use and ownership,

operator characteristics, production practices, income, expenditures and other topics. This information is used by all who serve farmers and rural communities, from federal, state and local governments to agribusinesses and trade associations. “Your answers to the census impact farm programs and rural services that support your community,” Groskurth said. “So do your part and be counted when you receive your form, because there’s strength in numbers that only the census can reveal.”

In 2007, Nebraska farmers and ranchers reported more than 47,000 farms spanning 45.5 million acres. This showed a 3 per-cent decrease in the number of Nebraska farms from the 2002 census. Nebraska had

3,369 operators of farms with fewer than five years of operating experience in 2007, 3 percent less than in 2002. The 2007 Cen-sus of Agriculture revealed that only 3,353 operators were under the age of 35, an 11-percent drop since 2002.

DATA IDENTIFIES ISSUESWhile beginning farmers are often faced

with hurdles such as acquisition of land, in contrast, farmers nearing retirement are chal-lenged by the transition of land to future gen-erations. In 2007, there were 13,062 opera-tors in Nebraska aged 65 and up, 8 percent more than in 2002. This telling information and thousands of statistics are only available

every five years as a direct result of producer responses to the census, Groskurth said.

NASS will mail census forms in late Decem-ber to collect data for the 2012 calendar year. Completed forms are due by Feb. 4, 2013. Producers may use a secure website, www.agcensus.usda.gov, to complete the census, or they can return their forms by mail. Federal law requires all agricultural producers to par-ticipate in the census and requires NASS to keep all individual information confidential.

For more information, visit www.agcen-sus.usda.gov. The Census of Agriculture is your voice, your future, your responsibility, USDA emphasizes.

Census Countdown Begins for Nebraska’s Farmers and Ranchers

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Washington, D.C. — The American Farm Bureau Federation has announced the country music artists who will perform at its 94th Annual Meeting, Jan. 13-16, in Nashville, Tenn., also known as “Music City, USA.”

The three-part country music group Edens Edge will perform at the opening gen-eral session on Sunday Jan. 13, which begins at 9 a.m. The Arkansas trio is composed of Hannah Blaylock, Dean Berner and Cherrill Green.

Edens Edge is signed with the Nashville independent record label, Big Machine Re-cords, and released its debut single “Amen” in April 2011. In the past year, the trio has earned new fans all over the country, open-ing tours for Brad Paisley, Lady Antebellum and Reba. In addition to stunning vocals, the group boasts skilled musicianship on a range of instruments including acoustic guitar, do-

bro, lap steel, mandolin and bouzouki.On Monday Jan. 14 at 8 p.m., the Ameri-

can Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture will host a Night Out at the Grand Ole Opry House for Farm Bureau members and guests, featuring award-winning singer/song-

writer Phil Vassar. Vassar has co-written songs with country greats such as Tim Mc-Graw and Alan Jackson. His first self-titled album came out in 2000 and went gold; his latest album, Noel, celebrates the holidays.

Night Out at the Grand Ole Opry House will be hosted by former Miss Mississippi and Great American Country personality Nan Kelley. Other performers include: The Driven Bow; Line Dancers: Barry and Dari Anne Amato; The Fiddleheads; and Tim Nichols and Craig Wiseman performing together. General admission tickets for this fundraiser, which is sponsored by Chevro-let, are $55 each plus tax.

Approximately 8,000 Farm Bureau mem-bers from across the nation are expected to gather in Nashville for the 94th Annual Meeting to hear from distinguished leaders and participate in a grassroots policy-setting process that will guide AFBF through 2013.

Visit www.annualmeeting.fb.org for more information.

Country Musicians To Perform for AFBF in ‘Music City, USA’


TOURSTo register for agricultural tours:

visit www.tnfarmbureau.org/convention-tours

To register for city tours:visit www.destinationnashville.com/tours/AmFarmBureau_1-13.html

Tour costs are listed on the websites.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Retired as-tronaut Mark Kelly will deliver the keynote address at the American Farm Bureau Fed-eration’s Annual Meet-ing, Jan. 13-16, 2013, in Nashville, Tenn.

More than 8,000 Farm Bureau members from across the nation are expected to gather in Nashville for the 94th annual meeting to hear from distinguished lead-ers and participate in a grassroots policy-setting process that will guide AFBF through 2013.

Kelly is one of America’s most expe-rienced pilots and has logged more than 6,000 flight hours aboard more than 50 dif-ferent aircraft. His experience includes 375 aircraft carrier landings, 39 combat missions, more than 50 days in space and serving as commander of the Space Shuttle Endeav-or’s final mission.

In addition to his experience as an astro-naut and Navy captain, Kelly is a prostate cancer survivor and best-selling author. “Moustronaut: A Partially True Story,” is a children’s book written by Kelly that was slated for release in October.

“We are excited to have Mark Kelly as our keynote speaker,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman. “His outstanding leadership, dedication to teamwork and courage under pressure are truly inspirational.”

Kelly is married to Gabrielle Giffords, the former member of Congress who survived an assassination attempt in January 2011.

Retired Astronaut Mark Kelly To Keynote AFBF Annual Meeting

Mark Kellyretired astronaut


Friday, January 2511:30 a.m. Kick-off Luncheon Gov. Dave Heineman, to be invited

1 p.m. Depart for Tours

6:30 p.m. Dinner “Can One Voice Truly Make a Difference” “Grassroots 101”

8 p.m. Ultimate Farmer/Rancher Challenge

Saturday, January 268 a.m. Discussion Meet

9 a.m. Workshops “Burps & Slurps” U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance

Estate Planning and Farm Law

10 a.m. Break

10:30 a.m. Keynote “Using Your Voices – Breaking the Glass Ceiling: A Mock YF&R Policy Development Session”

11:45 a.m. Luncheon “Farm Bureau 101”

1:30 p.m. Keynote “Connecting with Consumers” 5 person panel comprised of a Producer, a Mom, an individual from a local coop, a grocer and a cattle buyer

3-3:30 p.m. Break

3:45 p.m. – Workshops “Everything You Wanted to Know about Farming and Ranching, but Were Afraid To Ask”

“WTF...Without the Farmer, Who’s Telling the Story” Nebraska Farm Bureau Legislative Update

6:30 p.m. – Banquet Speaker yet to be decided Greater Horizon Scholarship Presentation 8 p.m. – Entertainment Steve Meade Comedic Hypnotist

FOR REGISTRATION INFORMATION CONTACT:Cathy Day Nebraska Farm Bureau® 800/742-4016 [email protected] www.nefb.org

Legislative Conference – Feb. 14-15, 2013Embassy Suites – 1040 P Street (Downtown Lincoln)

Tentative AgendaThursday, Feb. 149 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Registration

10:30 a.m. President’s Welcome Steve Nelson Nebraska Farm Bureau

10:35 a.m. Ag Issues and 113th Congress Jim Wiesemeyer ProFarmer

11:45 a.m. Luncheon-1:25 p.m. Susie O Preacher’s Kid Turned Farm Wife

1:30-3 p.m. National Issues Update Jordan Dux State Issues Update Jay Rempe, Anthony Aerts and Jessica Kolterman NFBF Governmental Relations Dept.

3:00-3:30 p.m. Break

3:30-5:00 p.m. State Senator Update

5:30-8:00 p.m. Elected Officials Reception

Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation ®

For registration information, please contactWhittney Kelley at [email protected] or 402/421-4760.

Friday, Feb. 157 a.m. Embassy Suites Complimentary Cooked-to-Order Breakfast (on your own)

7:30-8:30 a.m. Registration

8:30-9:15 a.m. Tom Hoegemeyer The Impact of Future Crop Innovations

9:15-10:00 a.m. Drought Forecast Al Dutcher State Climatologist

10:00-10:30 a.m. Break

10:30-11:15 a.m. Matt Erickson AFBF Economist

11:15-12:00 a.m. Speaker TBD

12:00-1:30 p.m. Luncheon Aaron Davis Former Nebraska Football Player and Inspirational Speaker

AlDutcher

JimWiesemeyer

Susie O

Connecting the Producer to the Consumer

January 25-26

2013 Young Farmers & Ranchers

Conference

Divots Conference CenterNorfolk, Nebraska

AaronDavis


FARM EQUIPMENTFOR SALE: 25’ Sunflower Land Finisher with 18” blades, 13” sweeps, harrows behind, $13,500, excellent condition; Vermeer 605 J Baler, $6,400; Vermeer R-23 Rakes, $5,700. Call Imperial, 308/882-4660.

FOR SALE: MC Flair shredder 18’ pull type, 1000 RPM, good shape, reason for sale, went to 30” rows, bought 20’ shred-der, $2,500. Call Grand Island, 308/382-5838 or 308/390-4300.

FOR SALE: Massey Fergusen 160 manure spreader, new floor, new chains, new beaters, $2,000. Call Loup City, 308/750-6483.

FOR SALE: Haybuster 2650 bale processor, excellent con-dition, $1,400. Call Loup City, 308/745-0249.

FOR SALE: John Deere 4230 with cab, good air, good tires, in very good shape. Call Valen-tine, 402/376-1879.

VEHICLESFOR SALE: 2007 Ford 3/4 ton heavy duty pickup, red bed liner, running boards, good tires, less than 50,000 miles. Call Hastings, 402/705-9421 or 402/463-0595.

FOR SALE: 1985 F250 4x4 Ford 460, 148,213 miles with PB/PS lockouts, with a 7.5 foot Western Snow Blade, me-chanically good. Call Waverly, 402/786-5165.

FOR SALE: 1999 Suburban 4X4, mint shape, custom conver-sion package, gold emblem with leather bucket seats, dash and doors wood trim, chrome run-

ning boards and more, $5,000. Call Papillion, 402/306-5440.

MISCELLANEOUSFOR SALE: Earth stove, converts to open fire, bricks excellent condition, used very little, $300; oak entertainment center with TV, $350. Call Or-leans, 308/473-3170, 308/991-4870, or 308/991-0115.

FOR SALE: Nebraska county maps for most counties, with landowners’ names, from the year 1885, only one of each. Call Rushville, 308/327-2025.

FOR SALE: Mueller HiPer-Form milk cooler, 800 gallons. Call Hartington, 402/254-2203 or 402/640-4242.

FOR SALE: Fancy home-raised BLK and BWF heif-

ers, bred to proven low birth weight high performance regis-tered Angus bulls for 45 days to start calving March 10, com-plete vaccination program. Call Amelia, 402/482-5599.

FOR SALE: 24 round bales of irrigated corn stalks, net wrapped, baled behind combine (not raked), $95 per ton or OBO. Call Daykin, 402/446-7253.

FOR SALE: 25 foot long lum-ber, 3.5” x 5.5”, one piece only, best offer takes. Call Ravenna, 308/293-5717.

FOR SALE: 3,000 gallon fuel tank, $600.. Call Gresham, 402/366-2476.

FOR SALE: Diesel fuel trailer tanks, 500 and 1,000 gallon sizes. Call Henderson, 402/723-4869.

FOR SALE: New 16’ wood feed bunks with 2x12 sides, $220; 10’ feed bunks with 2x10 sides, $165. Call Schuyler, 402/615-1735.

FOR SALE: 5x10 cattle panels weighing 85 to 90 pounds each with 5/8” rod connection, $70 each, 45 available. Call Loup City, 308/745-0249.

FOR SALE: Two York Bins, 37’x10 ring high, good condi-tion. Call Henderson, 402/723-4869.

FOR SALE: 2005 Challenger 5th wheel, 2 slides, rear liv-ing, new 37” HD RCA, ceil-ing fan, full queen, 8 gallon water heater, air conditioning, furnace, nice, original own-er, $19,750. Call Venango, 308/353-8510.

WANT ADS

Free Want Ads for Farm Bureau MembersFarm Bureau members may submit one free Want Ad per month. If there is more than one category mentioned with the Want Ad we will split it into multiple categories, but it must be a combined total of 30 words or less. Ads are used on a space-available basis, subject to approval. Ads exclude real property (permanent structures) such as homes, farms, ranches and businesses. Selling crops or herds of livestock also is excluded. Send typed or printed ads to Want Ads c/o Shayna Truax, Nebraska Farm Bureau News, P.O. Box 80299, Lincoln, NE 68501 or email [email protected]. You may also place your ad online using the following link: http://www.nefb.org/wantad.htm. If you would like to rerun your ad you must resubmit the ad. Previously submitted ads will not be kept on file. Deadline is the 1st of each month. (No issue in July.)

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WE HAVE WHAT IT TAKESTO SERVICE YOUR TIRES,INCLUDING A SENSE OF URGENCY.

In-The-Field Service

When you need farm tire service give us a call. We are specially trained and equipped to handle your on-farm, in-fi eld tire service, repair and replacement needs. We’ll get you back up and running when you need it most.

Blair, NE • 712-249-6189Glenwood, IA • 712-527-3621

Shenandoah, IA • 712-246-3756Atlantic, IA • 712-243-4561

Country Tire, formerly Glenwood Firestone, is back doing

In-The-Field Service!712-527-3621 • After Hours, Call: 712-314-4206 or 712-308-1534

Nebraska 4-H FoundationInvest In Nebraska Youth

Visit: 4h.unl.edu

All gifts are tax-deductible

Support Nebraska Agriculture in the Classroom

Visit www.agclassroom.org/ne

FB02-ML (3-12)

The lifeblood of America.They’re the humble heroes who rise before dawn and battle

the elements. They put clothes on our backs and food on

our tables. Their genuine values and tireless work ethic are

an inspiration to us all. We appreciate all that America’s

farmers do and invite you to join us in saying thanks at

www.fbfs.com/SayThanksToAFarmer.

NE-Tribute(3-12).indd 1 4/11/12 4:24 PM

Documents

December 2012 Nebraska Farm Bureau News