Nebraska Farm Bureau News - May 2011

NebraskaFarm Bureau NewsMAY 18, 2011

VOL. 29 ISSUE 5

Get The Real Dirt About Farm Life in Nebraskapage 9

State Senators Deal with Budget, Highway Funds and Waterpage 11

Fueling Up Green With Renewable Fuelspage 13

Young Farmers & Ranchers Have Opportunities To Competepage 19

Boosting Mainstreet Business

page 12

2 MAY 18, 2011 Nebraska Farm Bureau News

contents

On the CoverAgriculture’s boom helps Nebraska communities such as Seward prosper.

Photo by Tina Henderson

Food DriveNebraska Farm Bureau will kick off the 10/11 Can Care-a-Van June 3 in the state Farm Bureau office parking lot in Lincoln. Find a list of other participating locations where you can drop off your donation, June 6-11!

page 14

Healthier TimesSchool is coming close to an end for most districts so now is a good time to review summer safety tips concerning the sun, pools, bugs, playgrounds, bicycles, skateboards, scooters, skates and lawn mowers.

page 17

In Every Issue3-4 County News5 Member Benefits6 What’s Cooking?10 National News11 State News12 Cover Story16 Your Backyard23 Want Ads

Deadline ApproachingJune 3 is the deadline to get your photos turned in for Nebraska Farm Bureau’s 2011 Photo Contest. Remember, winners receive a cash prize!

page 14

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 5 May 18, 2011

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: Cheryl Stubbendieck [email protected] or ext. 4405

Graphic Designer/County News/Month in Pictures: Tara Grell [email protected] or ext. 4494

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

NEBRASKA FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Keith Olsen, president (Grant)Steve Nelson, first vice president (Axtell)Rob Robertson, chief administrator/ secretary-treasurer (Lincoln)

BOARD OF DIRECTORSMark McHargue, second vice president (Central City)Nathan Bartels (Elk Creek)Andy DeVries (Ogallala)Del Ficke (Pleasant Dale)Jason Kvols (Laurel)John C. Martin (Pleasanton)Scott Moore (Bartley)Kevin Peterson (Osceola)Tanya Storer (Whitman)Shelly Thompson (Whitney)Sherry Vinton (Whitman)

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.

The President’s MessageBy Keith Olsen, PresidentNebraska Farm Bureau Federation®

There’s little satisfaction in having correctly pre-dicted that something harmful will come true. Oh, perhaps some small pride in being right

– but that’s not much comfort when you’d rather be wrong.

Last June, I warned that higher values for Nebraska agricultural land could lead to school districts receiving less in state aid to education. The higher values paint a rosier picture of the “local resources” available to fund education. The more funding a district can pro-vide, the lower the equalization aid it receives from the state.

I said, “With the revenue challenges Nebraska faces this year and next, and state senators looking at all possible budget reductions, it’s very possible state aid to schools will be cut, causing the burden of funding public education to fall even more heavily on property taxpayers.”

This spring, the average valu-ation for Nebraska agricultural land is 22 percent higher than last year, according to UNL. Farm and ranch landowners already pay the majority of the property taxes in Nebraska’s rural school districts. And they may very well get the “opportunity” to pay more next year: state senators passed and the gover-nor approved LB 235 during this year’s session of the legislature. It adjusts the state aid formula to reduce state aid to schools to $822 million in 2012 and to $880 million in 2013.

BALANCED BUDGET HAS CONSEQUENCESWhile Farm Bureau supported LB 235 as necessary for

balancing the state budget, we do recognize that it has consequences. The combination of state budget cuts, higher ag land values and declining student numbers in some districts means 95 of the state’s 251 school dis-tricts will not receive equalization aid next year.

Districts that do continue to receive equalization aid will receive less: for example, the Holdrege Public Schools will receive nearly $970,000 less. To offset the

lost aid, school districts will have to turn to the prop-erty tax if they want to maintain their current spending.

Farming and ranching require large tracts of land. In general, farmers are okay with paying more in property taxes when there’s a direct connection between the purpose served by the tax and the land. For example, it makes sense that owners of agricultural land would pay more in property taxes to support the local Natural Resources District than someone who owns a home site in a city: the benefits they receive are in proportion to the amount of land owned.

When it comes to funding public education, an agri-cultural landowner receives no more benefit than does the family with the home site in town. Each is entitled

to a free public education for their children. But the ag land owner pays many thousands more to provide that education, through higher property taxes.

IOWA’S APPROACHOver the years the legislature

has considered several approach-es to reducing the agricultural property tax burden. The state of Iowa has taken a different ap-

proach. It allows school districts to levy an income tax surcharge of up to 10 percent of the state income tax on district residents to supple-ment state funding. A tax on income is spread more widely across the community than a tax on land which falls much more heavily on one small segment of the school district’s constituents.

State Sen. Deb Fischer has introduced an interim study resolution, LR 239, to examine public school finance, particularly the state aid to schools formula, before next year’s session of the legislature. Innovative ideas, such as Iowa’s income tax surcharge, should be part of the study.

No Pleasure in Saying ‘I Told You So’

IT’S YOUR SHOT!Photo Contest

COUNTY NEWS

Lancaster County Farm Bureau held its scholarship dinner April 14 at the University of Nebraska Foundation. Scholarship recipients were Greyson Biegert, who is majoring in biochemistry and chemistry; Benjamin Eigbrett, majoring in environmental studies; Jessica Francis, majoring in hospitality, restaurant and tourism management; Emily Kerl, majoring in veterinary science; Katherine Kurth, majoring in animal science; Nicholas Meysenburg, majoring in veterinary science; and Emma Trewhitt, majoring in fisheries and wildlife. Each student received a $650 scholarship. Pictured from left are David Grimes, Lancaster County Farm Bureau president; Eigbrett; Francis; Kerl; Biegert; Meysenburg; Trewhitt; and Steve Waller, dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

Lancaster County Farm Bureau

Scholarships Awarded to 7 UNL Students

Kimball/Banner County Farm Bureau recently sponsored a community meeting in Kimball to inform the public about the Humane Society of the United States and its goals for agriculture in Nebraska. Willow Holoubek, or-ganizational director for the Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (A-FAN), was the guest speaker. Guests from five counties attended. Holoubek explained the background and objectives of the well-funded Washington, D.C.-based animals rights organization. Meeting participants received printed materials about A-FAN, Farm Bureau and HSUS in bags provided by Kimball/Banner County Farm Bureau.

Kimball/Banner County Farm Bureau

County Sponsors HSUS Information Meeting

Nebraska Farm Bureau News MAY 18, 2011 3

Lancaster County Farm Bureau sponsored a food race at the Lovegroves grocery store in Waverly April 21 to help local food banks. Norris, Raymond Central and Waverly FFA chapters were selected to race through the store for two minutes. Waverly FFA members competed to help the Waverly Food Bank, Raymond Central FFA members competed for the Lincoln Food Bank and Norris FFA members competed for the Shephard of the Hills Food Bank. Farm Bureau paid for the food collected and awarded the chapters cash donation: first place $300, second place $200 and third place $100. Waverly won with a collection of $413.05, Raymond Central came in second with a collection of $334.21 and Norris will be donating $261.27 worth of product to its food bank. Lancaster County Farm Bureau members Todd Reed, David Grimes, Erma McGill and Herschel Staats helped their teams negotiate the store. The winning team from the Waverly FFA Chapter is pictured. Front row from left are Erica Peterson, Katlyn Kimmen, Jessica Smith, Becca Rose and Ashley McNealy. Back row from left are John Catsinas and Trent Ronhovde.

Lancaster County Farm Bureau

FFA Chapters Participate in Race for Food Banks

Follow Nebraska Farm Bureau on:

facebook.com/Nebraska.Farm.Bureau

search for Nebraska Farm Bureau on youtube.com

twitter.com/NEFarmBureau

COUNTY NEWS

Johnson County Farm Bureau members, along with members of the Farm Service Agency and University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension, held their 5th Annual Safety Day at the Johnson County Fair Grounds in Tecumseh on April 28. Students from Freeman, Sterling, Johnson County Central and Johnson/Brock schools attended. The organizers held two general sessions on chain saw and mower safety and the sheriff’s department gave a presentation on drug awareness, with drug dogs giving a demonstration. Other sessions emphasized Nebraska Operation Lifesaver; use of a fire extinguisher; the Remember Electrical Safety Practice Everything Communi-cated Today (RESPECT) trailer from the Omaha Public Power District (pictured); bicycle safety; seatbelt safety with a roll-over by the Nebraska State Patrol; fire department/EMTs; Digger’s Hotline; and internet safety. Approximately 100 students attended and more than 50 presenters and volunteers. Students were sent home with a bag containing materials on safety and agriculture. Jim Erickson, vice president of Johnson County Farm Bureau, is chairman of the event and Rosie Sugden, Johnson County Farm Bureau board member, is also a com-mittee member. Other Johnson County Farm Bureau members participating were Terry and Shelley Keebler, Mary Erickson, Helen Wilkinson, Donita Podtburg and Duane Sugden. Karl Linke, Nebraska Farm Bureau district director of member services for the southeast, also helped out.

Johnson County Farm Bureau

FB Members Help with 5th Annual Ag Safety Day

Wayne County Farm Bureau awarded Joel Allemann a scholarship of $1,000. Joel is the son of Jerry and Lynne Allemann of rural Wayne. He is a recent graduate of Wayne High School and will be attending Southeast Com-munity College in Beatrice and majoring in agriculture business. The scholarship was presented by Wayne County Farm Bureau board member Bob Dowling.

Wayne County Farm Bureau

County Awards Scholarship to Wayne High Graduate


Swings Low,Moves High

1-800-446-0316www.norwoodsales.com

The SA AugerWheatheart's SA series of swing-away,portable grain augers combine highperformance and quality with theconvenience of a low profile swinghopper and hydraulic scissor lift.Several options and seven differentmodels available.

1-866-467-7207www.wheatheart.com

Tips To Help Plan For Life after GraduationCongratulations! Graduation is a milestone

and an achievement. It’s also a time to start thinking about forging your own path in life – which could mean getting a first job, moving out of your parent’s house, purchasing your first car and planning for the future.

Here are some tips and tools to help you get off to a good start as you start your new life.

1. Focus on getting a job. Make sure your resume is updated and accu-rately reflects your work and scholastic experience. Prac-tice interviewing with a friend or family member to make sure you’re prepared before you meet your potential new employer.

2. Contribute to your 401k. When you land your new job, enroll in your com-pany’s 401k immediately. The earlier you start to save, the harder your savings will work for you.

3. Check on your car insurance. You may have been covered under your parent’s auto policy while in college and if you’re planning to live on your own, make sure your car remains covered.

4. Budget for a new car. If a new or used car is in the picture, and you don’t know how much you can afford to spend, use our free Auto Calculators to help plan for and budget your payments.

5. Investigate health insurance op-tions. A new law allows students and children

to remain on or return to a parents’ health in-surance plan until age 26.

6. Consider renter’s insurance. If you’re renting an apartment, renter’s insurance is af-fordable and will provide peace of mind should the unexpected occur. It’s important that all of your furniture, computers, electronics, books and other belongings are insured.

7. Create a budget. Living within your means will help prevent get-ting into trouble with debt.

Pay with cash. If you can’t pay cash, reconsider making the purchase. Credit card debt can build up very quickly and can become a financial burden that follows you for a long time.

8. Guard your identity. Preventative services that protect against identity theft and monitor your credit are available and worthwhile in saving you time, money and frustration should your per-sonal information ever be-come compromised.

9. Learn to cook. You’ll save in the long run by preparing your own meals. Getting into the habit of coupon clipping and making coffee at home will save even more.

10. Find things to do that don’t cost much money. Check out books or movies at the library. Take a walk or enjoy the company of friends by playing inexpensive card or board games.

Go to www.fbfs.com to learn more and find the tools discussed above.


YOUR GUIDE TO SAVINGSThese discounts and services add value to your membership.

For more information on these and other great benefits, log on to www.nefb.org or visit your local County Farm Bureau.

FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES

Insurance, Investments Retirement and more

Farm Bureau Financial Services provides the following competitve products and services:

• Vehicle, home, farm/ranch and life insurance

• Annuities and investments

• Retirement and education funding estate preservation and more!

877-860-2904www.fbfs.com

INSNET, LLC

Receive 20% off review of your medical bills with a balance of $200

or more and possibly negotiate a lower rate.

Service is risk-free. It charges a per-centage of the amount saved on a

bill with no fee if there is no savings.

877-694-6763www.myinsnet.com/nefb

[email protected]

WYNDHAM HOTEL GROUP

CLEARVALUE HEARING

Save up to 20% off the “Best Available Rate” at participating

locations of the following hotels:

WyndhamDays Inn

Howard JohnsonRamada

TravelodgeAmeriHost

Hawthorn SuitesMicrotel Inn and Suites

877-670-7088

Super 8800-889-9706

Identify yourself as a member of Nebraska Farm Bureau and use the Farm Bureau ID#63324 when calling to make your reservation.

A reservation must be made in advance to use this discount.

Is hearing loss affecting your life?

ClearValue Hearing can save you up to 25% on prescriptive digital

hearing instruments and significant savings on other hearing needs.

FREE hearing assessment!

1 year FREE supply of batteries

100% guaranteed custom fit/60-day trial

Use Promo Code FBUS110

888-497-7447www.clearvaluehearing.com

GRAINGER

Receive special discounts on mainte-nance, repair, operations and safety products. Easily purchase products online or contact your local branch.

Provide the NEFB Grainger Account # 855922449.

www.grainger.com

Photo courtesy of www.sxc.hu

Photo courtesy of www.daysinn.com

Photo courtesy of www.grainger.com

Photos courtesy of www.fbfs.com

MEMBER BENEFITSNew Mobile App Helps Simplify Insurance

West Des Moines, Iowa — Farm Bureau Financial Services has in-troduced a mobile app developed as part of the very first interdisciplinary app-building course at the University of Missouri-Columbia. The “My FBFS iApp” includes simple daily tools like a gas mileage calculator and a car game for kids, plus simple ways to manage information after an accident, and connect with an agent – all in one place.

The mobile app was born out of a first-of-its-kind col-laboration by journalism and computer sci-ence students.

“The op-portunity to partner with a paying, corpo-rate client was new ground for the Reynolds Journal-ism Institute (RJI) and our students,” said Mike McKean, associate professor at the Missouri School of Journalism and Futures Lab Director at RJI on May 9. “Through this engagement, students learned how to innovate against an identified business need and manage the process from con-cept to delivery.”

This is the first course in the coun-

try to blend journalism and computer science for an integrated communica-tions experience. The development of the mobile app also gave the students real-world experience by allowing them to both design an app that fits consumer needs and work with stu-dents in other disciplines, much like they will in the workplace.

“A less conventional approach to mobile app development made a

lot of sense,” said Scott Shuck, Farm Bureau Finan-cial Services’ vice presi-dent, market-ing services. “The My FBFS iApp helps us connect with our consum-ers where and how they

want to. The fact that we could help students with a real-world, corporate experience through this process was an added benefit – it was a winning combination for everyone involved.”

To learn more about the Farm Bu-reau Financial Services mobile app, go to FBFS.com/iPhone-app.

To learn more about Farm Bureau Financial Services, visit us on Facebook or Twitter.

Dripless PopsiclesIngredients1 small package flavored sugar-free gelatin1 cup boiling water1 cup flavored yogurt1/2 cup low fat milk

DirectionsDissolve gelatin in boiling water. Allow to cool. Stir in yogurt and milk. Pour into Popsicle molds or cups. If using small cups, insert sticks. Freeze.

Yield: 10, 1/2 cup treats

Dripless Popsicles and Extra Cheesy Macaroni recipes and all photos from Lois Linke, wife of Karl Linke, Nebraska Farm Bureau district director of member services for the southeast. Peanut Butter Pudding recipe from www.grouprecipes.com.

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

Extra Cheesy Macaroni

Ingredients1/2 cup sugar2 tablespoons cornstarch1/4 teaspoon salt2 1/2 cups low fat milk1/2 cup peanut butter1 teaspoon vanilla

DirectionsCombine the sugar, cornstarch and salt. Gradually stir in the milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture boils. Cook for two more minutes, stirring occa-sionally. Stir in peanut butter and vanilla. Cover surface and cool. Chill before serving.

Optional garnishes: whipped topping, chocolate chips, chocolate syrup, marshmal-lows, etc.

Yield: 5-6 servings

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

June – 4th of JulyAugust – diabetic dinner partySeptember – National Breakfast Month


Peanut Butter Pudding

Ingredients1 16-oz. package of your favorite pasta (spirals, macaroni, bowties or a mixture).1 egg1 1/2 cups sour cream1 1/2 cups small-curd cottage cheese1 pound processed American Cheese, cubed2 cups shredded cheddar cheese2 cups cubed ham (optional)

DirectionsCook pasta according to package instructions. In a blender, combine the egg, sour cream and cottage cheese; process until smooth. Transfer to a large bowl; add American and cheddar cheeses. Drain pasta; stir into cheese mixture until evenly coated. Transfer to a greased, shallow 3-quart baking dish. Bake uncovered at 350° for 15 minutes; stir. Bake an additional 15-20 minutes longer or until bubbly and edges begin to brown.

Yield: 8-10 servings

Kid friendly suggestion: Serve with baby carrots and “ants on a log” (celery with peanut butter and raisins).

June Is Dairy Month: Children’s Health and Dairy Products

Nine out of 10 girls and seven out of 10 boys don’t get the calcium they need.

A 2006 report on optimizing bone health from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) encourages adequate calcium intake to decrease risk of fractures during childhood and adolescence, and to prevent future osteoporosis.

The AAP recommends children ages 4-8 consume three servings of low-fat dairy products per day and children ages 9-18 consume four servings per day. One serving of dairy is equal to 1.5 ounces of cheese, 1 cup of milk or 1 cup of yogurt.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry rec-ommends cheese as one of the healthiest snacks for children’s teeth. In addition to providing much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Ched-dar, Swiss, mozzarella and Monterey Jack stimulate the body’s salivary glands and disrupt the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. In addition, calcium and phosphorous found in cheese work to re-mineralize the enamel of children’s teeth.

SPORTS NUTRITIONWhether you are a star athlete or sim-

ply enjoy regularly participating in physical activities such as dancing, soccer, tennis or biking, milk’s nine essential nutrients (see graphic) play an important role in fueling any active lifestyle.

From bone building to muscle strength-ening, the nutrients in milk provide a vari-ety of positive health benefits. For example,

carbohydrates in milk help to refuel energy, protein works to repair and build muscle, and fluid and electrolytes replenish what is lost in sweat to rehydrate the body.

In fact, research shows chocolate milk is al-most twice as effective as commercial sports drinks to refuel exhausted muscles. Chocolate milk is 90 percent water and a great tasting choice after exercise, practices and games. Studies suggest that you drink 16 ounces of chocolate milk 15 minutes after practice or competition; or refuel between double ses-sions and closely scheduled competitions; or consume a high carbohydrate meal two hours

after competition or practice.

HOW TO USE MILK AND CHEESE

Start at Breakfast• Add low-fat milk to whole

grain cereal with fresh fruit.• Use low-fat milk in place of

water when making oatmeal.• Make scrambled eggs

with low-fat milk and top with mozzarella cheese.

Snack Smart• Prepare instant pudding

mix with low-fat or fat-free milk and spoon over vanilla wafer cookies and sliced bananas.

• Mix low-fat milk or yo-gurt with fruit in a blender to make a fruit smoothie.

• Enjoy a cup of steaming hot chocolate – mix fat-free milk with chocolate syrup.

Healthier Meals• Make soups and casseroles more fla-

vorful by adding low-fat milk.• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese

on top of broccoli, beans, whole grain rice or other family favorites.

Excerpts from www.midwestdairy.com and www.nationaldairycouncil.org.


LIVESTOCK DIRECTORY

BUTTERFLY SUPPLY, INC.800-249-7473

LIVESTOCK FENCING SUPPLIES

* Tubing * Rods * Cable ** Guardrail * Clips *

www.butterfl ysupplyinc.com

Call for a dealer near you!

Jauer Dependable Genetics

2 yr. old, maternally efficient, grass-type bulls.Roger Jauer ph. (712) 947-4357�� www.jauerangus.com ��

Private Treaty Bulls For Sale

Cut your losses with a safe, quiet, non-slip cattle working area.

Put one to work for you today!Protective mats for:

• Processing Areas • Walkways • Crowd Pens • Ramps • Scales • Snakes

Make it a safer and more productive work area.With these cattle prices, who can afford not having

“DDMats” for their cattle?”Double D Family Mat Shop Inc.

6606 E. Road 100S, Park, KS 67751(785)673-4326, Fax: (785)673-4331

BANCROFTC & J AUTO SERVICE

402-648-7672

LEIGHJ & L AUTOMOTIVE

402-487-2888

MILFORDFARMERS COOPERATIVE

402-761-2226www.farmersco-operative.com

BILL’S VOLUME SALES, INC.Box 277 • Central City, NE 68826

Livestock Mixing & Feeding Equipment Commercial Manure Spreaders • Electronic Scales

TOM PULLEN • SALES REPRESENTATIVEWATTS: 1-800-658-4375 • BUS. (308) 946-3068 or 946-2224

RES. (308) 946-2152 • FAX: (308) 946-2672See www.billsvolume.com for pictures and information on our used equipment.

Roto-Mix now available with new staggered rotor system. Call for free DVD!

www.rocksignsofne.com402-741-0951

CUSTOM ENGRAVED LIMESTONE

Farmers and Ranchers Celebrate Earth DayApril 22 • Photos by Tina Henderson & Adam Peterson

Nebraska Farm Bureau celebrated Earth Day by hosting two events for news media to showcase the many ways farmers care for the environment every day. At Prairieland Dairy near Firth, Terry Landis of Prairieland Dairy, left, and Keith Olsen president of Nebraska Farm Bureau, right, talk to a group about conservation efforts Prairieland Dairy Farm has im-plemented to save resources. These include new compost systems and innovative water use.

Near Giltner, Hamilton County Farm Bureau member Zach Hunnicutt demonstrates to the media how he and his family work to conserve water on their farm by using buried water sensors. They help him to apply only the amount of water his crop needs. This reduces both water use and soil erosion.

Come fly with us!American FarmBureau Convention

Hawaii 2012January 6–11, 2012 | Honolulu

To book air and any pre or postextensions contact Executive Travel and mention you are with Nebraska Farm Bureau

1212 O StreetLincoln, NE 68508402.435.8888


It takes a special roofto hold up the sky.

We’ve built 67,000 so far.

It’s no wonder our post-frame buildings last a long time.We only use the highest quality lumber. We carefully shape our own steel and trusses. And our Wick-trainedcrews know only one way to install our designs: the right way.

Want the best quality building at a competitive price?Call us. We’ll make your hard-earned buck last a long, Call us. We’ll make your hard-earned buck last a long, long time.

T H E R E I S O N L Y O N E . T H E O R I G I N A L . S U N F L O W E R .

IT ’S TIME TO DIVE IN FOR A CLOSER LOOK .

Now you can have Sunflower quality & value in a high-performance vertical tillage implement.

With five working widths from 21 to 32 feet there is a new Sunflower 6630 Series vertical tillage tool to fit your operation. Like all of the famous Sunflower tillage line, the 6630 vertical tillage implements deliver Sunflower durability, efficiency and, high performance tillage action. Plus, the 6630 implements feature the stay-sharp, serrated Saber Blade™ vertical tillage blades. The Saber Blade cuts through tough crop residue with ease and penetrates hard soils. The rippled profile Saber Blade profile creates a soil mixing action not possible with any other blade. The crop residue is sized, mixed and anchored for faster soil warm-up and resistance to wind and water erosion.

See your Sunflower dealer today to learn more about the 6630 vertical tillage line up.

PO Box 1681471 West Hwy. 34Aurora, NE 68818

“SINCE 1877”

Bus. (402) 694-2121Watts (800) 742-7423FAX (402) 694-2124

[email protected]

COMPLETE GRAIN HANDLING & IRRIGATION SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR BUSINESS.

919 Rd. B, Henderson, NE • www.northernagriservices.com

Nebraska’s GSI/DMC WarehousePump & Irrigation Experts! Custom Pipe Fittings • Water Meters

Celebrating Over 50 Years Of Service!Cel

800-554-8715 NORTHERN AGRI-SERVICES

Over the next few months in Nebraska Farm Bureau News, we will feature a variety of tour options. Below are a few to entice you to join us in Hawaii.

Submarine AdventureJourney to the undersea world of

Jules Verne and Jacques Cousteau in air-conditioned comfort aboard a 48-passenger submarine. View-ing ports allow a clear view of the mysterious sea world inhabitants. Full-color fish pictorials assist in the identification of varied species including the famed humuhumunukunukuapua‘a (Hawaiian trigger fish). The co-pilot will provide a watery narrative of aquatic sights and sounds.

Oahu Farm ToursDates and Cost of Tours To Be DeterminedCost of Tours Include:

• Exclusive round-trip air-conditioned transportation• Narrated tour• Visit to two or three different farms/ agricultural operations• Farm tour/experience led and narrated by farmers, their designated representatives and/or farm workers• Lunch featuring a commitment to “Farm Fresh to Table” products and presentation• Hawaii state tax and Island Partners Hawaii coordination• Donation to the Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation

Prawn Farms throughout KahukuKahuku, which is a well-known shrimp aquaculture area, has spawned an entire industry of “Shrimp Trucks” that are not to be missed. If your timing is right, you might be here for the “Battle of the Shrimp Trucks”. Enjoy!

Waialua CoffeeLocated on the North Shore, they produce 155 acres of Cof-fee Arabica typica in this rich volcanic soil. Bordered by the steep, dramatic Waianae and Ko’olau mountains and tempered by the rolling Pacific surf, the coffee is as lush as its island surroundings.Waialua ChocolateWaialua Estate’s cacao trees are

a special blend of Criollo, Trinatar-io and Forestero varieties sourced from some of the finest cacao es-tates in the world. Waialua Estate Chocolate is made in collabora-tion with Guittard Chocolate Company of San Francisco.

REMINDERThe 2011 Membership Incentive Program offers Ne-

braska Farm Bureau members a chance to win a trip for two to the American Farm Bureau Convention in Hono-lulu, Ha., Jan. 8-11, 2012.

You must recruit at least three new members for your name to be entered in the drawing for the Hawaii. If you recruit five new members, you qualify for the drawing and get your next Farm Bureau membership free! For each new member over five, your name will again be put into the Hawaii trip drawing.

Completed membership applications and payment must be sent to your District Director of Member Services by Sept. 30, 2011.

The winner of the Hawaii trip will be announced on Oct. 7 in Lincoln. Only one prize will be awarded.

For registration information, contact Autumn Jacobs at 402/421-4470 or [email protected]

Note from the Editor: With more Ne-braskans growing up in urban and subur-ban areas miles from farm and ranch life, there is an increasing disconnect with how and where food is grown. Nebraska Farm Bureau News is beginning a new monthly mom blog called The Real Dirt. We will have guest writers, who are farm moms, give their take about food production, food safety, farm life and how farm animal care is a priority. Blogs are meant to be educa-tional, entertaining, concise, enjoyable and to the point. This column will give our read-ers trusted information about the people who produce their food.

Dawn Caldwell writes as Lady of Ag for CommonGround (www.findourcommon-ground.com) and is a Clay County Farm Bureau member. Dawn and her husband Matt are the third generation to raise cattle and crops on his family’s farm and they enjoy teaching their two children the value of family life on the farm.

There are so many choices of things

for kids to do after school! I think school sports are great and if we weren’t a farm family, I would probably push my kids harder to participate in more school sports. Then you can throw in drama, groups like FFA or FBLA, and the list can go on. I will say, I am a believer that as long as the kids are busy and responsible to be somewhere, they aren’t making trouble. (at least I hope!)

Our kids, Kaydee and Emmet, don’t go out for track and I am totally o.k. with that – we have plenty of things they can be doing that certainly could be qualified as somewhat of a workout! The last day of school is getting ever closer, which means (at least on most days….when there aren’t sports camps or driver’s ed.) a full crew for building fence! Yay!!! I have to say, I wish I could spend time with them putting posts in the ground; I know my arms would be MUCH more toned. Tamping posts is very good for the upper body!

I had to do a presentation at a meeting recently, so I didn’t get home until about 8:30 p.m., but here’s what I found Kaydee doing when I pulled in the drive:

What a responsible young lady! We have a cattle show coming up exactly one month from now. Emmet already had his heifers rinsed, blown and tied to the fence. Kaydee was getting hers done. Neither of them had eaten supper yet; they were taking care of the cattle first. This routine will take place almost every day through

September, which is when the Nebraska State Fair is held. That will be our last show with this group of heifers.

Only the few cattle that are 4-H or FFA projects for the year get baths and get their hair blow-dried. In the show ring, presenta-tion is almost as important as the structural correctness of the critter. Folks who “fit” cattle for the show ring are kind of like hairdressers. You want each hair to be the right length and going the right direction. Really good cattle fitters are almost like artists!

Just across the grass from where Kaydee was working, Ringo was chewing on a bone from a roast we ate last weekend. He was in doggie heaven!


NEW DEALER FORHAY

EQUIPMENT

DOERNEMANNFARM SERVICE, INC.

COMPLETE REPAIR SERVICE

402-892-3368Clarkson, Nebraska

For Farm Equipment & Trucks• Welding • Machine Shop

New 24’ Double Rear Axle Hay Wagon

re

sensors at intervalss & rain gaugesue location & sensor

nloaded to computer

Watermark Monitor & Soil Moisture Sensors• automatically reads sensors at intervals • temperature sensors & rain gauges • programmable unique location & sensor names • stored readings downloaded to computer for display

After School Activities:Farm Kid Style

The Real DirtBy Dawn Caldwell, Clay CountyBlogs as Lady of Ag


SUPERB ENERGY MISER™SQ Series Grain Dryers With Super-Quiet Centrifugal Fans

Popular, Award-Winning TRI-CORR® Drying Floor With

PARTHENON® Support

High-Capacity (7,800 bph) HARVEST-TIME® SweepAnd Unloading System

(Dealer Imprint)

DIFFERENT BY DESIGN ™

Brock’s industry-leading systems are designed to perform together to match your needs and to provide a better return on your investment. You can trust Brock for:

� High-quality grain storage – capacities up to 730,000 bushels for the largestcommercial grain bin models.

� Reliable grain handling systems – engineered for farm or commercial use.

� Innovative, energy-efficient grain conditioning and drying systems.

Now is the best time to plan for and purchase new equipment. Contact us today to order an industry-leading system from Brock – the leader you can trust.

AINSWORTHBUCKLEY STEEL800-310-0347

GOTHENBURGHOLT PIVOT

308-537-3134308-539-3956

HIAWATHAKEN BABCOCK SALES

800-544-6530www.kenbabcocksales.com

MCCOOL JUNCTIONNEVILLE CONSTRUCTION CO.

402-724-2413www.nevilleconstruction.com

Do more with less effort.The New Valley® TouchProTM control panel with Touch technology simplifies control panel programming. With an option to personalize mainscreen controls, you can display critical irrigation information that is important to your operation. Powerful yet user friendly, the TouchPro control panel has improved control features as well as graphic views of the pivot, end gun and wide boundary positions so you can apply water more efficiently. Look to Valley…the leader in precision irrigation.

Simple programming. Powerful performance.

ATKINSONGREEN VALLEY IRRIGATION, INC.

[email protected]

BASSETTPERFECT VALLEY IRRIGATION

[email protected]

HOLDREGECENTRAL VALLEY IRRIGATION

308-995-6583www.centralvalleyinc.com

LEXINGTONCENTRAL VALLEY IRRIGATION

308-324-3434www.centralvalleyinc.com

GRAIN STORAGE - DRYING - HANDLING

SUPERIOR, INC.

• Superior Grain Bins more than 33 years of proven service. • Demonstrated commitment to serving our

customers with integrity. • Full line of high quality grain bins and equipment • Manufactured to exacting specifications

with state-of-the-art equipment

THE STRONGEST ROOF

1-800-822-9145 www.superiorincnd.com

Competitor’s Bins Competitor’s Bins

SUPERIOR ROOF!

1-877-822-9145

DIESEL PERFORMANCE IN A HEAVY-DUTY COMMERCIAL Z.

25 hp Kubota® liquid-cooled diesel

60" or 72" ™

Stop by your Exmark® dealer ®

BEATRICEWATKINS ACE HARDWARE

402-223-2400

GRAND ISLANDGRONE’S OUTDOOR

POWER308-384-5168

“YOUR PARTNER IN POWER”

• House Ag Committee Holds Hearing on Pending Free Trade Agreements

The House Agriculture Committee re-cently held a hearing to review pending free trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and Korea. Secretary of Agriculture Secre-

tary Tom Vilsack, U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk, American Farm Bureau President Bob Stallman and leaders from several com-modity organizations testified at the hear-ing. When they are fully implemented, the Korea, Colombia and Panama agreements combined would add nearly an additional $2.5 billion to the U.S. economy through agricultural trade.

“These trade agreements are not only important to the bottom line of America’s farmers and ranchers but to the economic health of our rural communities and the overall U.S. economy,” Stallman said. “There is a long supply chain made up of American workers who move products from the farm gate to foreign consumers. A decline in our exports means a decline in work for those who are a part of that supply chain.”• 2012 Farm Bill Viewed as Daunt-

ing Task for LawmakersWriting the 2012 farm bill will be a tough

task for lawmakers facing a moratorium on earmarks and budget restraints. “The biggest thing is going to be budget, budget, budget,” said Mary Kay Thatcher, the American Farm Bureau Federation’s farm bill specialist. “This bill is going to be a whole lot more difficult [to write] than previous bills.”

Frank Lucas (R-OK), House Agriculture

Committee chair, said budget indications point to several bil-lion dollars less in spending for the 2012 farm bill compared to the 2008 bill. Rank-ing mem-ber Collin Peterson (D-MN) doesn’t like that agriculture spend-ing is expected to take a 24- percent cut while the rest of government spending is expected to take just a 14-percent hit. “It’s got to be reasonable. We’re willing to take cuts, but they have to be commensurate with everybody else,” Peterson said.

On the Senate side, it appears that a bill might make its way through in the not-too -distant future. Senate Agriculture Commit-tee Chair Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) has “indicated that she would like to move in a quicker time frame than I think we will in the House,” Lucas said. The House and Senate Agriculture Committees will operate under different budget numbers in the interim, and will work out the differences when both ar-rive at the conference committee.

• Comments Submitted on Peti-tion to Increase Daily Price Limits in Corn Futures

Recently, Nebraska Farm Bureau Presi-dent Keith Olsen submitted comments to the Commodity Futures Trading Com-mission (CFTC) on a petition to increase the daily price limits on Corn Futures to $.50. “Our organization places a very high priority on maintaining the effective, efficient functioning of these markets, as well as on maintaining access to these

markets for agricultural producers and the agribusinesses that serve them,” Olsen said.

“Our primary concern with these ex-panded limits relates to the financial bur-den that they could impose on farmers and local elevators, particularly smaller elevators. For some of these market participants, the cost of maintaining the liquidity necessary to meet margin calls will become prohibitive. Farmers will find their risk management options limited as they lose the ability to directly hedge their price risk, and as elevators offer less favorable forward contracting terms due to the higher cost of financing the futures market positions that backstop these contracts.”

Congressional Happenings

NATIONAL NEWS

American Farm Bureau Federation Presi-dent Bob Stallman testified May 16 before the House Agriculture Committee about the inability of Congress and the admin-istration to move three stalled free trade agreements forward and how the delay is hurting U.S. economic growth.


Husker Power Products, INC

huskerpowerproducts.com

Better than it needs to be...

Five Year / 5000 Hr. Engine Warranty

ISUZU DIESEL❱ Soy Biodiesel Approved ❱ Very Low Fuel Consumption❱ Long Life Durability ❱ Local Sales & Service

CREIGHTONSHEFL REPAIR402-358-3583

HARTINGTONFOLKERS BROS.

GARAGE877-254-6406folkersbros@

hartel.net

ST. EDWARDGT SALES AND SERVICES INC402-678-2277

CONSIGNMENT AUCTIONWed., June 15, 20118 A.M., Chicago Time

Tractors - Combines and Heads; Tillage and Forage Pieces

Call for a free brochure. Consignments Welcome. “Titled Vehicles Absolute”

301 E. FrederickMilford, IL 60953

815-889-4191 Offi ce815-889-5365 Fax

BUY, SELL, TRADE DAILYNeeding Good Clean Machinery, Offering Trucking, De-

tail Shop and On The Spot Cash

Call for more information: Ask for Jon or Jim Mowrey

(815)889-4191 • (815)889-5365 FAXE-MAIL: [email protected]

Website at: http://www.mowreyauction.com

MOWREY AUCTION CO., INC. LICENSE #044000247

JON MOWREY LICENSE #041000416301 E. Frederick St.

P.O. Box 24Milford, IL 60953

EVENTS & TRAVEL

Sandy Beach Resort3472 Dakota Beach Circle

Fishing Resort6 furnished cabins on

Enemy Swim Lake w/lake access

Red Willow Chemical“Quality You Can Trust”

AG CHEMICALSPRICES BELOW WHOLESALE

(800) 658-4394for prices and delivery

RED WILLOW AVIATIONMcCook, NE 69001

www.rwaviation.com

• State BudgetState senators passed a package of bills to

adopt a state budget for the next two fiscal years which begin July 1, 2011. The package was signed by Gov. Heineman on May 17. Lawmakers are required by the Nebraska Constitution to adopt a balanced budget. To achieve that balance, a projected $986 million gap between spending and revenues needed to be closed. Senators closed the gap through budget cuts and cash fund trans-fers and used increased revenue projections. Reductions in state aid to schools passed ear-lier in the session and signed by the governor were a major part of the overall cuts made.

Of particular interest to Farm Bureau, the budget maintained funding for the Prop-erty Tax Credit program ($220 million), provided funding to the University for In-novation Campus ($25 million), maintained adequate funding for agencies such as the Departments of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and continued funding for etha-nol incentive programs ($6.3 million) and water management programs ($5.4 million).

• Roads Funding BillThe roads funding bill introduced by

Sen. Deb Fischer of Valentine, LB 84, was

passed on Final Reading by a 33-10 vote and was signed by Heineman on May 17. As amended, the bill directs ¼ of one cent of the state sales tax collected to roads funding. Eighty-five percent of the dollars will be used for finishing the state expressway and other priority needs as determined by the Department of Roads; the remainder will be distributed to cities and counties. Nebraska Farm Bureau sup-ports the bill.• State Meat Inspection BillLB 305, the state meat inspection bill

introduced by Sen. Tyson Larson, was adopted by the legislature and has been signed by the governor. As amended, the bill directs the Department of Agriculture to investigate implementation of a state meat inspection program, including any changes to state law and powers of the department, the financial resources need-ed to develop and maintain a program, and fees that would provide resources for the program. Nebraska Farm Bureau supports LB 84.• Nebraska Brand CommitteeThe legislature passed and the gover-

nor has signed LB 181. It allows the Ne-braska Brand Committee to establish a surcharge of up to $20 per site visit to recover travel expenses incurred for re-quired brand inspections. Nebraska Farm Bureau supported the bill, which was in-troduced by Sen. Tom Hansen of North Platte.• Funding for Water ChallengesA measure to provide additional funds

to address water challenges has passed on Final Reading by a vote of 39-5. LB 229, introduced by Sen. Deb Fischer of Valen-tine, would provide dollars to the Water Resources Cash Fund within the Depart-ment of Natural Resources to be used for activities to reduce consumptive uses

of water, enhance stream flows, or enhance ground-water recharge in fully or over-app rop r i a t ed basins. Under the bill, DNR would apply to the Environ-mental Trust for a three-year, $9.9 mil-lion grant to be distributed in three an-nual installments. The grant money would be matched with general fund dollars. DNR would be able to apply for a sec-ond three-year grant of the same amount if specific benchmarks are met. Nebraska Farm Bureau supports the measure, which was introduced by Sen. Deb Fischer of Valentine.• Commission of Industrial RelationsA measure to reform the Commission

of Industrial Relations (CIR), LR 397, has been advanced from General File to Se-lect File. After many hours of debate, a compromise was reached to allow the measure to advance with the under-standing that proponents and oppo-nents would work together on additional changes to the bill. Under the current bill, criteria used by the CIR to decide cases would be outlined in statute and the CIR would be required to consider workers’ wages, pensions and health care benefits when looking at compen-sation. In addition, school districts, ESUs and Community Colleges could request a hearing before the CIR if they feel they are unable to pay wages and benefits or-dered by the CIR.

The bill also would remove the option of using a special master to hear state union disputes prior to a CIR hearing, and all appeals would proceed directly

to the Nebraska Supreme Court. As of this writing, the bill awaits second round debate. Farm Bureau’s member-adopted a policy supports reform of the CIR as a means to control the ever-rising costs of employment in publically funded enti-ties.

• Hunting, Fishing and TrappingLR 40 CA, a constitutional amendment

to protect the right to hunt, fish and trap in Nebraska, will remain on Select File for the remainder of the session. LR 40CA was heard by the Natural Resources Committee and advanced through the first round of debate. The bill will remain at the second round of debate in order to research legal questions concern-ing the effects granting a constitutional right to hunt or fish would have on other property right holders, such as water right holders, and the effects on public projects such as roads construction or the building of transmission lines. The resolution was introduced by Sen. Pete Pirsch of Omaha.

STATE NEWSLegislative Happenings

By Cheryl StubbendieckNebraska farmers are enjoying unusually

high cash prices for their crops this spring: $6.79 for a bushel of corn in early May, compared with $3.58 a year ago; $13.36 for a bushel of soy-beans vs. $9.51 in May 2010; and $7.50 for a bushel of wheat that brought $3.96 a year ago on the cash market.

The costs of pro-ducing those crops are going up, too, by an average of 13 percent, according to a recent survey of bankers. So farmers are spending more in their local communities to buy seed, fertil-izer, fuel, agricultural chemicals and other crop inputs – things they have to buy. But they’re also spending money reinvesting in their farms and buying things they want to buy – new or newer equipment and vehicles, and im-provements to their lands and homes.

Nebraska Farm Bureau News

interviewed several business leaders in Seward in mid-May to learn how the cur-rent prosperity in agriculture is benefiting this southeast Nebraska community.

PROPEROUS AG GOOD FOR ALLBob Meyer

is the owner of Meyer Au-tomotive and Truck Sales in Seward. “I think when

farming is good and the ag is good, it’s good for the en-tire state. Agricul-ture is the reason for Nebraska’s low unemployment. It’s the trickle effect

– more people working. We keep adding (repair) technicians and sales people. If a sales person makes a commission, they’re more apt to spend money.”

Since coming to Seward in 2005, Meyer has expanded his automobile and trailer options. “When I sell a new truck (to a farmer), I like to sell them a trailer, too.” Right now, sales of ATVs and side by sides are hot, too.

At Plains Equipment Group in Seward, “Everybody is running like crazy,” says

Maurie Kniep, regional used equipment manager.

“We’ve sold a lot of new tractors and combines – the higher ticket items. A lot of used buyers are upgrading” to newer used equipment. “We’ve had two to three years of exceptional sales and we continue to grow.

NEW HIRES, OVERTIME“We’ve hired some additional sales

people and (we take) every opportunity we have to pick up a technician – service is growing along with sales. Our sales and service departments have extended their hours and we’ve paying more overtime.”

Andy Hartmann, director of operations for Hartmann Construction, says the com-pany’s been very busy during the short sea-son in the spring for earth-moving before farmers plant their fields.

Because of higher commodity prices, “farmers are trying to put more land into crop production, for example, seed corn, and they’re improving the land for better crop production. A lot of them are improv-ing the drainage in their fields to avoid being flooded out.”

Farmers are also adding or maintaining terraces in their fields, which reduce soil erosion and help them better manage wa-ter.

“ It sure is helping to keep my employ-ees busy, during the short time we have in the spring to do farm work. We don’t have to lay people off, like some other

kinds of construction companies are hav-ing to do.”

At Seward Lumber, manager Craig Wise-hart says the better ag economy is helping his business, too.

“The good ag prices move everybody else up. I can see a rise in overall business. There’s more remodeling (now) and even last year, than the years prior to that. The better ag economy has to be the reason.”


Seward Lumber has noticed that the better ag economy is helping business grow. There has been an increase in home remodeling, which is in part because of the improved ag economy.

Agriculture surrounds the Fourth of July City of Seward. Because of higher com-modity prices, farmers are improving their land for better crop production. Farmers are adding or maintaining terraces in their fields, which reduce soil erosion and help them better manage water.

Overall sales of cars and trucks are up for Meyer Auto in Seward.

Ag Boosts Business In Rural Town

Plains Power and Equipment Inc. continues to have good sales because of today’s strong ag economy. Many used buyers are upgrading to newer used equipment.

Photos by Tina Henderson

There are more than 95,000 flexible fuel vehicles traveling the highways and byways of Nebraska and that number continues to grow, Kim Clark ag program manager for the Nebraska Corn Board, said May 12. Looking into the near future, 50 percent of the 2012 cars, light duty trucks and SUVs built by General Motors, Ford and Chrysler, will be flex-fuel.

“The Nebraska Corn Board is work-ing to educate consumers about blender pumps across the state. Essentially, a blender pump works by drawing two fu-els – gasoline and ethanol -- from storage tanks and blends them together in vari-ous percentages to form a variety of fuels. Blender pumps offer different blends of ethanol fuel from E10, a blend of 10 per-cent ethanol and 90 percent gasoline, up to E85, 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Other ethanol blends that can be found at blender pumps include E20, E30, E40 and E50,” Clark said.

It is important for drivers to remember that if they have a flex-fuel vehicle, they can use any blend of ethanol, including E20, E30, E40 or E50. Flexible fuel vehicles have the flexibility to use other ethanol blends than just E85, Clark said.

“The more ethanol in fuel, the less money consumers pay at the pump. For example, E85 costs an average of $3.19 per gallon while super unleaded or E10 averages $3.89 per gallon. In 2010, American households

reduced their gasoline bill by $800 by using ethanol, which is real savings,” she said.

To find locations of blender and E85 pumps in your area, go to www.ne-ethanol.org.


Fueling Up Green With Renewable Fuels

The Nebraska Soybean Board has been burning soy biodiesel for nearly 20 years in its trucks without seeing a change in engine performance.

This is an example of a blender pump that offers E10, E30 and E85. Many blender pumps have yellow hoses. This one has a yellow handle to alert consumers that the fuel is safe only in flex-fuel vehicles.

There are many ways to identify a flex-fuel ve-hicle. For example, look for the yellow fuel cap or yellow around the fuel tank and the flex fuel emblem on the exterior of the vehicle.

You can distinguish a diesel fuel pump by the green housing or green handle on the pump.

Diesel fuel is used primarily by farmers and truckers across the United States. Soy biodiesel gives those users more choice when fueling up, Andy Chvatal, industry relations coordinator for the Nebraska Soy-bean Board, said May 12.

“Soy biodiesel is a domestic and renew-able source of diesel fuel that reduces America’s dependence on expensive im-ported oil,” Chvatal said. “The trucking industry is pivotal to our nation’s distribu-tion system and soy biodiesel is helping lower costs for both truckers and con-sumers.”

As gasoline hovers around $4 a gallon, the nation’s farmers and the trucking indus-try face closer to $5 per gallon for diesel fuel. This adds further pain for consumers as costs for transporting goods and services rise as well.

Without biofuels such as soy biodiesel, fuel prices would be about 10 to 15 per-cent higher, Chvatal said. An estimated 450 million gallons of biodiesel were produced in the U.S. in 2007, up from about a half mil-lion gallons in 1999, adding to the nation’s total fuel supply and putting downward pressure on diesel fuel prices. Demand for

biodiesel is expected to increase to nearly 650 million gallons by 2015.

“Transportation, both on and off the high-way, accounts for about 70 percnet of total U.S. diesel fuel use. Virtually every consumer and industrial product—from food to cloth-ing to manufacturing equipment—travels by truck at some time. When diesel prices rise, that cost is eventually passed along to the end-user, but soy biodiesel tries to lessen that pain,” he said.

According to the National Biodiesel Board, biodiesel has substantial carbon ben-efits.

“Biodiesel is one of the most thoroughly tested alternative fuels on the market. As far as farmers go, a simple 2 percent blend of biodiesel improves the lubricidity of a farm vehicle by 65 percent. Also, a blend of up to 20 percent soy biodiesel (B20) can reduce greenhouse gas emissions 60 to 75 percent. Soy biodiesel will continue to be a critical part of today’s long-term energy security strategy, so ask for it next time you stop to fuel up,” Chvatal said.

If you would like to know where to find biodiesel fuel, go to http://www.biodiesel.org.

Soy Biodiesel is a Value for Nebraska Farmers and Agri-Business

Blender Pumps New Option for Ethanol Users

With gas prices dancing between the $3.85 and $4 a gallon, it’s good to know that Nebraska consumers have many fuel choices, especially if you have a flex-fuel or diesel vehicle. Below are two stories that will help educate our readers about flex- fuel choices consumers have in Nebraska. The first deals with ethanol and the different blends of ethanol available across the state. The second story explores soy biodiesel and the growth of that product in Nebraska.


IT’S YOUR SHOT!2011 Nebraska Farm Bureau®

Photo ContestREMINDER: Entry Deadline is Friday, June 3, 2011

CATEGORIES:• All in a Day’s Work

• Nebraska’s Natural Beauty• People

PRIZES:Grand Prize:

digital camera, bag and SD card

1st Place in each category – $150

2nd Place in each category – $75

For official rules, entry form and photo release forms visit www.nefb.org and click on the Photo Contest link.

Can Care-A-Van Kick-Off June 3; Food Drive Starts June 6-11

Nebraska Farm Bureau is once again the sponsor of the 10/11 Can Care-A-Van. Last year a record 257,000 pounds of food was collected and the goal this year is to break the record again!

“This sponsorship can help show that farmers and ranchers in Nebraska care about their neighbors every day. The food collected locally stays with your local food pantry. We will have several promo-tions on KOLN/KGIN and on MyTV before and during the Can Care-a-Van,” Roger Berry, Farm Bureau vice president of member services, said May 10.

Farmers and ranchers have a history of helping their neighbors in times of need. We know many people still have a need for some kind of assistance. Farmers and ranch-ers want to do their part and help collect

food for pantries and shelters across the state.

“Farmers are raising more food and fiber with less. Less Water…Less Fertil-izer…Less Insecticides. This allows them to preserve their land and grow safe and

affordable food not only for those who need assis-tance, but for your family too,” Berry said.

Check out the Channel 10/11 website (1011now.com) to see if a commu-nity in your area is par-ticipating. If you see your community listed, please take part by donating food or money for this

important event, he said.“Many of the food pantries need to re-

plenish their food supplies for the summer months to help families in need. Our goal is to collect more food than ever before and we need your help,” Berry said.

staff photo

staff photo

staff photo

As a Nebraska Farm Bureau member, get up to 20% off your next stay when you use discount code 00800536.

If you’re traveling this summer keep in mind...

For reservations, call 800-258-2847 or visit choicehotels.com.

Day Date Time LocationFriday June 3 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Lincoln – Farm Bureau Office Parking LotMonday June 6 AM SuperiorMonday June 6 PM Hebron Tuesday June 7 AM AuburnTuesday June 7 PM Nebraska CityWednesday June 8 All Day ColumbusThursday June 9 Grand IslandFriday June 10 AM Aurora Friday June 10 PM SuttonSaturday June 11 AM Geneva/York

On-air personalities from 10-11 will be present at these locations:

The NFAA Golf Classic will take place at 8:30 a.m.

Monday, August 16, 2010

at HillCrest County Club in Lincoln.

Interested in being a sponsor?

Ready to register your team?

Contact: Tina Henderson 402/421-4446 [email protected]

All donations support the Agriculture in the Classroom program.


Got Rakes?

Vermeer TwinRakes … hydraulic or mechanical folding, and now with optional Powered Splitter. Vermeer WheelRakes … hydraulically controlled, ground or crop-driven. Heavy-duty Vermeer WRX WheelRakes, and the RR150 Rotary Rake. Twelve different models to choose from. Raking widths up to 28 feet! Adjustable windrow widths perfectly matched to your baler pickup. And great prices!

Lots of them!

DEALER LISTING

Vermeerag.com 800-370-3659 • Pella, IA©2008 Vermeer Corporation. All rights reserved. Vermeer and Vermeer logo are registered trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries.

DEALER LISTING

©2008 Vermeer Corporation. All rights reserved. Vermeer and Vermeer logo are registered trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries.

ATKINSONFLANNERY HAY EQUIPMENT INC

888-352-6429

BENKELMANBOB & DEE STAMM BALER SALES

308-423-2892Bob 308-423-2441

SEE US TODAY FOR DETAILS AND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS! OFFER ENDS JUNE 30, 2011.

Axial-Flow® combines set the industry standard for reliability, grain quality & savings, crop adaptability and simplicity. From the proven workhorse 88 Series to the industry leading 20 Series with standard self-leveling cleaning system and Power-Plus CVT drives, Case IH has a combine that’s right for you!

*®

MAXIMIZE YOUR DEPRECIATION DEDUCTION.�Consult your tax advisor regarding the NEW, first year 100% bonus depreciation and $500,000 Section 179 expensing deduction.†

CNH Capital and Case IH are registered trademarks of CNH America LLC. www.caseih.com

* For commercial use only. Customer participation subject to credit qualification and approval by CNH Capital America LLC. See your Case IH dealer for details and eligibility requirements. Down payment may be required. Offer good through June 30, 2011. Not all customers or applicants may qualify for this rate or term. CNH Capital America LLC standard terms and conditions

will apply. This transaction will be unconditionally interest free. Taxes, freight, set-up, delivery, additional options or attachments not included in suggested retail price. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice.† CNH Capital and Case IH dealerships do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. Customers are strongly encouraged to seek their own

professional advice on the proper treatment of these transactions.

Curly Olney’s Inc.1601 N. Hwy 83

McCook, NE 69001(800)543-7512

Curly Olney’s Inc.73899 332 AvenueImperial, NE 69033

(800)392-6823

www.curlyolneys.com

Specializing in:� Farm and Ranch Sales ��Auction Services ��Farm Management � Crop Insurance

Mid-ContinentProperties, Inc.

Farm & Ranch Real Estate Sales & Management11213 Davenport Street, Suite 105

Omaha, NE 68154402.334.0256 � (F) 402.933.7497

www.mid-continentproperties.com

Leading the Field Since 1969Mid-Continent Properties, Inc. is proud to serve

Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota in the sale, leasing and management of quality farmground. Call today.

By Jordan DuxFarm Bureau National Affairs Coordinator

This series highlights a federal regulation that is important to farmers and ranchers. The purpose is to create awareness among Nebraska Farm Bureau members and to provide an opportunity for farmers and ranchers to make an impact on these proposals.

This month’s regulation deals with an Environmental Protec-tion Agency and Army Corps of Engineers guidance document that expands the reach of the Clean Water Act.

BackgroundAn EPA and Corps of Engineers guidance document re-

cently released for public comment will make substantial changes to federal policy with respect to which waters fall under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act. It increases the scope of the federal government’s power to regulate waters significantly and expands the federal government’s

regulatory reach on private property as well. Nearly every body of water – including farm ponds, ditches and even mud puddles – could now be under the regulatory jurisdic-tion of the federal government.

EPA says the new document is designed in part to elimi-nate uncertainty caused by 2001 and 2006 Supreme Court decisions that narrowed the types of rivers and streams subject to the Clean Water Act significantly.

However, the document further confused the legal un-derstanding of which waterways are subject to the water pollution law. Administration officials said the guidance would help restore federal protections for waterways by clarifying that small streams and streams that flow part of the year are subject to federal regulation if they have a “physical, chemical or biological connection to larger bodies of water downstream and could affect the integrity of those downstream waters.”

You might remember a piece of legislation known as the “Clean Water Restoration Act.” This proposal would have expanded EPA’s regulatory authority in a fashion very similar to what’s in this guidance. Luckily, that legislation was never passed and had opponents on both sides of the aisle. It appears that EPA, knowing that it would be impossible to pass the legislation in this Congress, has decided to simply go around Congress and implement this proposal through the regulatory process.

1. How does this affect farmers and ranchers?The new guidelines, worked out by EPA and the Corps

would require businesses and homeowners to get permits (which could run into thousands of dollars) in the likelihood that a chemical may run off a field or construction site into free-flowing waterway and waters that have a connection to conventional rivers or streams. In terms of agriculture, EPA is claiming that the proposal does not change existing agricultural exemptions and it specifically exempts artificial lakes and ponds and artificially irrigated areas and many ag-ricultural and roadside ditches from Clean Water Act re-quirements.

However, the key to EPA’s statement is what it is not saying. EPA and the Corps now get to decide what is con-sidered a “normal farming practice.” If the agencies deter-mine that the practice will “convert” or change the “reach” of a water body, they can “recapture” the practices and now regulate it. This could mean that runoff from a typical pesticide application could now fall under Clean Water Act regulations. It is worth noting that farmers in California are currently being asked to get a Clean Water Act permit for something as simple as switching a field from pasture to cropland.

2. Does this impact the general public?It will impact consumers on multiple levels. They will likely

be forced to pay more for almost everything they purchase. As their cost of doing business goes up, manufacturers and other entities will likely pass their increased cost on to con-sumers. Simple things like building a home will cost more because of the expensive permits necessary to comply with this new guidance.

3. What can be done to stop EPA and the Corps from moving forward?

Farm Bureau members need to start by submitting com-ments on this new regulatory guidance. Go to www.nefb.org and click on the Federal Regulation of the Month button to take action. It is also important to contact your Member of Congress and let him know how detrimental this new regulation will be to all Nebraskans.

Federal Regulation of the Month

Clean Water Act


KRVN • Lexington, NE • 308-324-2391 www.krvn.com/tours

RuralRadio Network

July 30 - August 13, 201114 Nights Off The Beaten Path in Alaska

September 24 - October 4, 2011Canada & New England Cruise

October 21-23, 2011Nebraska vs. Minnesota

February 9-18, 2012Hawaii Adventure

Call Gannon Travel Associates • 800-381-8785

Travel With Us!

Walk in Storm Shelter$2,600 includes tax, setup

and delivery up to 150 miles*

Visit Us at: www.divineconcrete.com1-800-584-7000

*3.50/load mile after 150 miles*

Protection for11+ People

High StrengthConcrete

SteelReinforced

6’x8’ doublesas StorageBuilding

Walk in StormShelter$2,600 includes tax, setupanddelivery up to 150miles*

*4.00 / loadedmile after 150miles*

REBUILT INDUSTRIAL HYDRAULIC SCRAPERSRebuilt to industrial specs with top quality heavy industrial

cylinders, hoses and fi ttings for years of trouble-free service. We carry the full line of industrial and ag scrapers. All sizes from 4 to 20 yds. Also used scraper tires. Trades welcome.

Looking to buy Cable ScrapersLEVER ENTERPRISESBox 194, Muenster, SK SOK 2YO

Shop Ph. (306) 682-3332

40+ WHEEL LOADERS for sale at all times. Mitzel & Sons, Aberdeen, South Dakota. PH 605-225-7464

FOR SALE:Beautiful Blue Spruce Trees & Black

Hills Spruce Trees (3-7 ft). Freshly dug & ready to plant. Large Selection very

reasonably priced.402-893-4781

FAMILY OWNED FLATBED BUSINESS IS LOOKING FOR

DEPENDABLE OWNER/ OPERATORSGood Home time w/ plenty of miles.

Sign on bonus & safety bonus.

CALL 877-626-4658 FOR DETAILS

INGERSOLL RANDAir Compressors, Tools, Parts,

Service for all makes.Toll Free 866-469-2247

www.air.irco.com/omaha

D-5 CAT WITH WINCH, $35,000 OBO; 943 Cat loader, $28,000 OBO; Komatsu 220 excavator, $38,000 OBO; Ditch Witch with road boring unit complete, $20,000 OBO. All very good condition.

Ph. 316-323-2707

Your Backyard

By Andy CampbellCan you feel it? The surges in Mother Nature as our plants

begin growing again and the spring rains and bright sunny days return. May is when our hearts beat a bit faster because winter is gone and spring is here.

Sometimes when I write articles, I can get stumped on what to discuss. Not May. May is a perfect time to accomplish so many tasks in our landscapes that the difficulty in May is decid-ing what not to talk about!

The first thing to do is talk about planting annuals. Many peo-ple in eastern Nebraska don’t plant annuals until Mother’s Day to be safe from the last chances of frost. While those in western Nebraska may still need to be slightly cautious, go ahead and plant your annu-als. Whether in a bed, hanging basket or pot, now is the time to get these beauti-ful plants for best selection.

PLANT YOUR VEGETABLESNow, I don’t know about you, but

store-bought vegetables just don’t have the same flavor and taste as the crop from the backyard garden. Warm sea-son vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, corn, etc. can now be planted safely. And if you haven’t already, get your cool season vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, cauliflower, lettuce, etc., planted quickly. They will grow better in cooler weather versus the heat of summer. Also consider amending your gardens each year by adding compost, or peat moss and manure, then tilling it in well, before planting.

After the annuals and the vegetables are planted, consider adding perennials, shrubs and trees to your landscape. By plant-ing now you give your new additions some time to get settled into place before the stresses of summer arrive. Daylilies to iris, lilacs to viburnum, lindens to maples – May is a perfect time to plant your landscape. Make sure to plant interest for all sea-

sons of the year versus just what is blooming now. And if you aren’t quite sure what to plant at your home consider work-ing on a plan with a landscape professional like our Campbell’s landscape designers. Experienced designers can offer recom-mendations that will assist you in planting the right plants in the right locations that have as much color and interest as possible through the year.

Now before you think May is all fun and sunny weather, don’t forget to prepare to deal with weeds and insects. Pre-emer-gents like Preen can cut your weeding immensely and should be applied before new mulch is added. If you didn’t know this or forgot to apply, then apply it soon for best results. Also

be ready to spray a bit of Round Up on those weeds the pre-emergent doesn’t control.

PLEASE GROW AND SHAREOne final note for those of you near

Lincoln who are planting vegetable gar-dens this year. As you plant your garden, please plant an additional plant or two and donate to the “Grow and Share” program between Campbell’s and the Lincoln Food Bank. Drop off extra produce in paper sacks to either of our garden centers on Mondays and Tuesday throughout the

summer and it will be donated to the Lincoln Food Bank.Overall, try to enjoy some of the great Nebraska weather

we have in May, add some color and interest to your landscape through new plantings, and keep the Grow and Share program in your mind if you are close to Lincoln.

Andy Campbell is manager of Campbell’s Nurseries Landscape Department. A Lancaster County Farm Bureau member, Camp-bell’s is a family-owned Nebraska business since 1912. It offers assistance for all your landscaping and gardening needs at either of its two Lincoln garden centers or through its landscape design office. www.campbellsnursery.com.

The Glories of May

State Fair Ag Family Nomination Deadline Is June 3

Nebraskans have until June 3 to nominate a deserving farm or ranch family for the Ne-braska Farm Bureau/State Fair Ag Family of the Day awards program.

Four families will be honored on the weekend days of the 2011 State Fair in Grand Island, which runs from Aug. 26 – Sept.5.

Each of the se-lected families will be hosted and fea-tured at the fair on their designated day.

They receive free gate and midway ad-mission, a reception in their honor, lodging, $100 cash, recognition at an awards pro-gram and other honors. They also are fea-tured in the fair’s daily parade.

To nominate a family online, go to www.nebraskaagfamily.org. Or request a printed nomination form from Farm Bureau’s Public Relations Department at 402/421-4405.

WANTEDYOUR USED OR SCRAP

ALUMINUM PIPE

Paying top cash prices

We pick up. Call for quote.

Minimum purchase 1000’ pipe

George Frazell308-380-4549

308-647-5564 evenings


You Might As Well Have the Best!

1102 Center StreetWest Fargo, ND 58078

701-281-1729

www.fsmfg.com1-800-333-2314

ATV Skid Sprayers��

Ryan or Todd at 877-487-5724 ext 3 or 1 To Puchase Distillers Grains call

Located 3 1/2 miles east of Plainview, NE on Highway 20

To Sell Corn call

Husker Trading at 866-348-7537

• SEED • AGRICULTURAL CHEMICALS • FERTILIZER

• GRAIN • FEED • BULK OIL, FUEL & PROPANE DELIVERY

• ON FARM TIRE SERVICE • AG AVIATION

(800) 642-6795www.auroracoop.com

Hydrostatics • Since 1969

Hydro rebuilds on combines, swathers, skid steers, & IH Tractors. Units tested Special on 5 yr. warranty H.D.

Torque Amplifi ers & related parts.Ask about our package deal.

WASHINGTON, KANSASwww.herrsmachine.com

TOLL FREE: 877-525-2875

SO. YELLOW CREOSOTE POSTSAll sizes and prices.

Spec. discounts for large amountsRED BRAND WIRE SALE

$65.95/roll, while quantities last.Call Jerry (402) 846-5450

Walthill Service

www.legacysteelbuildings.com

Legacy Steel BuildingsAll Steel Straight Wall & Quonset Buildings

Compare Before You Buy

800-237-9620Ask for Steve

CHEMICALSHarness Xtra 5.6, $28; Glfos Xtra 2 1/2’s, $10; Sprit, $8; Arrow, $56; Callisto, $425.BENES SERVICE, Valparaiso, NE.Call 402-764-3581

JD 544H; JD 624H; JD 624J;JD 644H; (2) JD 644J; Forks etc.

www.collinsfarmsks.comShop 785-733-2428Cell 785-229-2428

HEALTHIER TIMES

Summer Safety Tips for Kids and Parents, Too!Most of us can hardly believe that

summer is already here, but with school coming close to an end for most districts across the state, this is a good time to re-mind everyone of a few summer safety tips.

Sun Safety:• Use sun screen! To

avoid sunburn, reapply every two hours when swimming or sweating. • For babies under 6

months: The two main recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics to prevent sunburn are to avoid sun exposure and dress in-fants in lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and brimmed hats that shade the neck.

However when adequate clothing and shade are not available, parents can ap-ply a minimal amount of sunscreen with at least 15 SPF (sun protection factor) to small areas, such as the infant’s face and the back of the hands. If an infant gets sunburn, apply cold compresses to the af-fected area.• For all other children: The first, and

best, line of defense against the sun is cov-ering up. Wear a hat with a three-inch brim or a bill facing forward, sunglasses (look for sunglasses that block 99-100% percent of ultraviolet rays) and cotton clothing with a tight weave.

Pool Safety:• Never leave children alone or unat-

tended, even for a moment. • Children age 4 and older should be

taught to swim. Parents may choose to start swimming lessons before age 4 if their chil-dren are developmentally ready, but swim programs should never be seen as “drown proofing” a child of any age.

Bug Safety:• Do not use scented soaps, hair sprays

or perfumes on kids.• Combination sunscreen/insect repel-

lent products should be avoided because sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, but the insect repellent should not be reapplied.• Use insect repellents containing DEET

when needed to prevent insect-related dis-eases. Ticks can transmit Lyme Disease and mosquitoes can transmit West Nile Virus and other viruses.• The current CDC and AAP recom-

mendation for children over 2 months of age is to use 10- 30 percent DEET. DEET should not be used on children under 2

months of age.• The effectiveness is similar for 10-30

percent DEET but the duration of effect varies. Ten percent DEET provides pro-tection for about 2 hours – 30 percent for about 5 hours – choose the lowest concen-tration that will provide the required length of coverage. • Children should wash off repellents

when back indoors.• As an alternative to DEET, Picaridin has

become available in the U.S. in concentra-tions of 5-10 percent.

Playground Safety:• Make sure equipment is carefully main-

tained. Open hooks or bolts can be danger-ous.• Make sure metal slides are cool to pre-

vent children’s legs from getting burned.• Parents should supervise children on

play equipment to make sure they are safe.

Bicycle Safety:• Your child needs to wear a helmet on

every bike ride, no matter how short or how close to home. Children learn best by observing you. Set the example: Whenever you ride, put on your helmet.• When purchasing a helmet, look for a

label or sticker that says the helmet meets the CPSC safety standard.

Skateboard, Scooter and In-Line Skate Safety:• Always wear a helmet and other pro-

tective gear such as wrist guards.• While in-line skating or wearing roller

shoes, be sure to wear appropriate protec-tive equipment and only skate on designat-ed paths or rinks and not on the street.

Lawn Mower Safety:• Children younger than 12 should not

use a push-behind mower and children younger than 16 should not use a riding lawn mower.• Do not allow children to ride as pas-

sengers on ride-on mowers.• Always turn off the mower and wait

for the blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, or crossing gravel paths, roads or other areas.

Copyright © 2010 American Academy of Pediatrics, www.aap.org.

Photo Courtesy of www.safekidslincoln.org


Bridgeport Tractor Parts9936 US Highway 385Bridgeport, NE 69336

877-530-5010TractorPartsASAP.com

f

Over 50 Acres of Used Tractor & Combine Parts with Fresh Inventory Arriving Daily!

Are you tired of dealing with the hassles of irrigating with electrically powered pivot irrigation systems? Microswitches, expensive unexpected repairs, high maintenance costs, safety concerns…the list goes on.

Only T-L irrigation systems use strong, efficient, smooth running and reliable hydrostatic power that you know and work with every day. Proven technology that works!

Let T-L Irrigation Co. and T-L dealers give you lasting value and decades of dependability. T-L pivot irrigation systems are “Easier on You – For a Lifetime.” Call your local T-L dealer or T-L Irrigation Co. at 1-800-330-4264 today!

Irrigation Systems

IRRIG

ATION

SINCE

1955

EXCELLEN

C

EYEARS

The T-L Difference.

T-L Dealer Signature Here

Proven technology

THAT WORKS!

HENDERSONNORTHERN

AGRI-SERVICES

402-723-4501

SARGENTSHEETS

IRRIGATION308-214-0182308-527-3627

Low MaintenanceHigh Performance

Mist Sprayers

For free brochure contact:Swihart Sales Co.7240 County Road AA, Quinter, KS 67752

785-754-3513 or

800-864-4595www.swihart-sales.com

References availablein your area

Free Shipping

Motor Models available

We offer a complete line of low volume mist blowers.

Excellent for spraying CATTLE, feedlots, dairies, vegetables, vineyards, orchards,

nurseries, Christmas trees, livestock, fl ies, mosquitoes, etc.

TOPLINE STEEL BUILDINGSAll Steel I-Beam Construction

50 YEAR STRUCTURAL WARRANTYGalvanized girts, purlins and C-sections

(no red iron)Many Sizes Available1-800-369-3882

Two Nebraska Robotics Teams Heading to LEGOLAND TournamentLincoln — Two Nebraska robotics

teams will be heading to southern California to participate in the FIRST LEGO League North American Open Tournament, May 21-22, at LEGOLAND in Carlsbad, Calif.

The Robot Dudes of Gretna and a 4-H team, Time Warner Cable’s Team Extreme from Lincoln, will join 84 other teams from the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

“It is a pretty exciting opportunity,” Kathy Morgan said May 16. She is FIRST LEGO League coordinator in 4-H youth develop-ment at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. “It means that teams and competitors na-tionwide will know that Nebraska has a robotics program. Anytime that people can see 4-H is doing robotics and is a part of the exciting world of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), that is a good thing.”

The tournament allows youth to build on their STEM skills and build and program a robot.

“They get to work as a team and build communication skills and partner with the community,” Morgan said.

TOMORROW’S PROBLEM SOLVERS“Participating in 4-H Robotics and the

FIRST LEGO League is a fun hands-on way for Nebraska’s youth to learn the skills they need to take on the problems of tomor-row,” said Brandy Johnson, spokesperson for Time Warner Cable.

Time Warner Cable sponsored the 4-H squad, Team Extreme, and the February FIRST LEGO League tournament as part of its Connect a Million Minds program to in-troduce kids to hands-on after-school learn-ing opportunities in STEM. To learn more about this program, visit www.connectamil-lionminds.com.

“Connect a Million Minds is dedicated to creating the next generation of problem-solvers, and we’re proud to support this 4-H team as they represent Lincoln at the North American Open. Everyone at Time Warner Cable will be cheering for them,” Johnson said.

One of the fun things about these tour-naments is that they are built like sporting events, Morgan said. “They are celebrated for their science learning just like athletes are for their accomplishments,” she said.

Paree Gregg of Gretna, the Robot Dudes coach, said her team’s members were ex-tremely excited when they heard the news about being picked to represent Nebraska at the national tournament. The home-schooled team of six is a rookie team ex-cept for one member.

HARD WORK PAYS OFF“Everyone learned a lot,” Gregg said.

“Programming the software was a new ex-perience for most of the team members

and they struggled at times. Their persever-ance paid off in the end, and all their hard work was rewarded with this trip to LEGO-LAND.

“They learned how to build a structurally sound robot that was versatile and agile. Determining the best sequence of events to use with the time on the board was a good

math and logic problem.”Th e event in California is one of only two

national robotics events nationwide. The Sheridan County Terminators, a 4-H team from Rushville, Neb. participated in the FIRST World Festival in St. Louis April 27-30, where 85 teams from across the world participated.

Jonha Pillow (left) and Adam Jarzynka of Lincoln are members of a 4-H robotics club. They’re making adjustment to their Lego robot during a competition at the Nebraska Robtics Expo held in February. A robotics competition to be held in Carlsbad, Calif., this summer will be similar.

Visit www.nefb.org

Nebraska 4-H Foundation

Invest In Nebraska Youth

Visit: 4h.unl.edu

All gifts are tax-deductible


STORAGESTARTING AT

$2.35 /BU

IROQUOIS, SDSIOUX CITY, IAMANKATO, MNWEB

888.546.2485712.898.8418507.381.1413SEEDPOINT.COM

SEE US AT:FARMFESTDAKOTAFESTBIG IRON

PERFECTION DOOR

We are celebrating 30 years in business.✓Save Money✓Improve Your Home’s Appearance

✓Increase the Value of Your Home✓Improve Your Home’s Energy Effi ciency

Free Estimates315 N. Front St. - Sterling, Colo.Check out our website for Spring/Summer Sales www.perfectiondoor.com

970-522-7714800-748-1554

NO-DRIFT CHEMICAL APPLICATOR

48” Pull or 36” Push Model

You Might As Well Have the Best!

West Fargo, ND 58078

www.fsmfg.com1-800-333-2314

WEED ROLLER

www.northernagmistsprayer.com

LANNY LOVITT COMPACT TRACTORSBlades • Tillers • Backhoe • Mowers • Forks

104 W. 13th Street, Kearney, NE 68847(308) 440-9738 • (308) 440-6283 • www.compacttractorsne.com

Nebraska YF&Rs Can Compete for Achievement, Excellence in Ag and Discussion MeetNebraska’s Young Farmers and Ranch-

ers need to think about three contests that would be beneficial to their leadership de-velopment, Cathy Day, director of specials programs, said May 17. The Young Farmers and Ranchers program includes both men and women between the ages of 18-35. Application dead-line for all three contests is Aug. 19, 2011.

“The ob-jective of the Young Farmers and Ranchers program is to provide lead-ership in build-ing a more effective Farm Bureau, to preserve our individual free-doms and expand our opportunities in agriculture. One way to develop leader-ship skill is through competition -- earn-ing recognition for your achievements in business excellence and leadership suc-cess,” she said.

This year the winners of the three com-petitions will win an all-expense-paid trip to Honolulu, Ha., Jan. 7-12, 2012, to attend

the American Farm Bureau Convention and compete at the national level. The state winners will also receive $500 and an elec-tronic device.

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD The Farm Bureau Achievement Award

Program is designed to recognize young farmers and ranchers who have excelled in their farming/ranching opera-tions and honed their leadership abilities to supe-riority.

C o n t e s -tants will be evaluated on a

combination of their farming operation growth and fi-nancial progress of their operation, and their leadership within Farm Bureau and in other organizations, Day said. “More specifically, the judges will be looking for excellence in management, growth and scope of the enterprise and self-initiative that has been displayed throughout the operation. A contestant’s participation in Farm Bureau and other organizations is a definite point-getter from the judges,” she said.

The national winner will receive a 2012 Dodge Ram Pickup (approximate retail val-ue of $35,000). The four national runners-up will receive a Case IH Farmall 31 Tractor (approximate retail value of $19,000).

EXCELLENCE IN AGThe Farm Bureau Excellence in Agricul-

ture Award Program is designed as an op-

portunity for young farmers and ranchers to earn recognition while actively contributing and growing through their involvement in Farm Bureau and agriculture.

“Participants will be judged on their involvement in agriculture, leadership ability, involvement and participation in Farm Bureau and other organizations (i.e., civic, service and community). The ideal candidate for the Excellence in Ag-riculture Award is an individual or couple who do not have the majority of their in-come subject to normal production risk,” Day said.

The national winner will receive a 2012 Dodge Ram Pickup (approximate retail value of $35,000) and the three runners-up will receive a $6,000 Savings Bond (Series EE; cash value of the bond when received is $3,000) and a Stihl Farm Boss (approximate retail value of $360).

DISCUSSION MEETThe Discussion Meet contest is designed

to simulate a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are ex-pected from each participant.

“This competition is evaluated on an ex-change of ideas and information on a pre-determined topic. The judges are looking for the contestant that offers constructive criticism, cooperation and communication while analyzing agricultural problems and developing solutions,” she said.

The national winner will receive a 2012 Dodge Ram Pickup (approximate retail value of $35,000) and the three runners-up will receive a $6,000 Savings Bond (Series EE; cash value of the bond when received is $3,000), and a Stihl Farm Boss (approximate retail value of $360).

The following questions will be used at the 2011 Nebraska Farm Bu-reau annual meeting and at the 2012 American Farm Bureau annual meet-ing.

1. Are the current and proposed Renewable Energy Policies beneficial to all segments of American agricul-ture? Why or why not?

2. How can we convince the pub-lic that the animal agriculture industry balances production efficiencies with the public’s expectations of animal care?

3. Have farmers and ranchers used social media effectively to educate and influence the public? What strategies can be implemented to expand the interaction between producers and consumers?

4. How do we capitalize on growing world demand for agricultural prod-ucts?

5. What role, if any, should agri-culture play in addressing health and obesity issues?

More information and details of the contests are available at http://www.nefb.org/programs/yfandr/index.htm

#7 2.25x2.375 TC Boy Design.indd 1 1/5/06 11:34:45 AM

www.neffafoundation.org

DISCUSSION MEET QUESTIONS


��

Sioux City, IAMankato, MN

E85It’s the right thing to do!

Good for the EnvironmentGood for the EconomyGood for Nebraska!For more information about EthanolVisit www. necga..org

Fill up at these locations!

necga..org

GOTHENBURGAMPRIDE

308-537-3405www.allpoints.coop

LEXINGTONAMPRIDE

308-324-8003www.allpoints.coop

SCOTTSBLUFFPANHANDLE CO-OP

800-732-4546

Dick Neel, Nebraska Farm Bureau district director of member services for the Southwest District, was a presenter at the Water Jamboree at the South Central 4-H Camp at Harlan County Reservoir on April 19 and 21. Approximately 550 fifth grade students from schools in south-central Nebraska and north-central Kansas attended the event. Neel explained why farmers plant corn, how corn is used, and how today’s farmers are reducing soil erosion and raising more corn with less fertilizer and less energy. The event was sponsored by the Tri Basin and Lower Republican Natural resources Districts, Nebraska Cooperative Extension, Kansas State Cooperative Extension, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District. Neel is shown presenting to students from Southern Valley School near Oxford.

Slow Down for Slow-Moving Farm Equipment on the Road

Sometimes the business of raising safe, fresh and local foods entails moving farm equipment on public roads. It’s nothing that farmers and drivers can’t handle.

Each year, however, accidents involving farm equipment on the highways in Nebras-ka result in property damage, injuries and occasionally, deaths.

“Don’t be a statistic,” said Dave Morgan, assistant director of the UNL Tractor Test-ing Lab. “As soon as you see farm equip-ment or a slow moving vehicle emblem, you should slow down. Almost all self-propelled equipment has a top speed less than 25 miles per hour – less than half the speed of cars, trucks and pickups on most roads.”

FARM EQUIPMENT GOES SLOWFarm equipment was not designed to go

fast, Morgan said.“Tractors and other self-propelled ma-

chines are designed to pull tillage imple-ments, harvest crops, cut and condition hay and apply ag chemicals. Ten miles per hour is a fast field speed,” Morgan said.

Most farm equipment does not travel any

faster than about 25 mph.“The farmer you are tailgating is going 25

mph or less because the tractor or combine won’t go any faster,” Morgan said.

STOPPING DISTANCEFarm equipment also takes longer to

stop. The closure distance between a car traveling at 55 mph and a tractor traveling at 15 mph can be extremely short, so don’t follow too closely.

Because long equipment requires the operator to swing wide for turns and field roads and lanes are not as obvious as a mile intersection. make sure the farmer knows you are behind him or her. Not all farm equipment will have working turn signals so use extra caution.

“If you pass farm machinery, use ex-treme caution,” Morgan said. “If the farm equipment is being followed by an escort vehicle, you should never pass unless you can safely pass both the escort and the farm equipment. Escort vehicles should be treated as part of the farm equipment,” he said.

When you are on public roads and see farm equip-

ment with a slow moving vehicle

emblem like this, you should slow

down to avoid accidents. Most farm equipment does not travel any faster than

25 mph.

Water Jamboree

www.becomeafan.org1.888.580.AFAN (2326)

BECOMEA-FAN


MIDSIZE VALUE.BIG-TIME WORK.

Shown with optional accessories.NEW! 2011 RANGER® 500

• NEW! 500 Electric Fuel Injection (EFI) single cylinder – 32 HP

• Powerful enough to tow up to 1,250 lbs. and haul up to 500 lbs. in the box

• NEW! Speedometer and an instrument cluster with electronic fuel gauge

• Dump box with Lock & Ride® cargo system

Warning: The Polaris RANGER is not intended for on-road use. Driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate. Passengers must be at least 12 years old and tall enough to grasp the hand holds and plant feet firmly on the floor. Drivers and passengers should always wear helmets, eye protection, protective clothing, and seat belts. Always use cab nets. Be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Never drive on public roads or paved surfaces. Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. Check local laws before riding on trails. ©2010 Polaris Industries Inc.

CENTRAL CITYHILDER IMPLEMENT INC.

308-946-3886AFTER HOURS CALL

308-940-0259

HASTINGSPAUL SPADY MOTORS, INC.

402-462-4105

GRAND ISLANDGRONE’S OUTDOOR

POWER308-384-5168

“YOUR PARTNER IN POWER”

PIERCEKOLTERMAN FARM

EQUIPMENT402-329-6279

© 2010 Meridian Manufacturing Group. Registered Trademarks Used Under License.

PREMIUMMULTI-PURPOSE

BINS

www.meridianmfg.com

KEARNEYM & N MILLWRIGHT, LLC

308-236-0555mnmillwright.com

MINDENMADSEN ENTERPRISES

308-830-0160

Travis Poppe of Crofton and Luke Zeisler of Butte are the 2011 recipients of the Greater Horizon Scholarship, sponsored by Nebraska Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee.

Each will receive a $1,000 scholarship to be used at a college or university, Cathy Day, Farm Bureau director of special pro-grams, said May 16. Poppe plans to attend South Dakota State University to study ag-riculture business management and agron-omy, and Zeisler will attend Northeast Community College in Norfolk in agricul-ture business.

Poppe is the son of Alan and Donna Poppe, members of Knox County Farm Bu-reau, and Zeisler is the son of Richard and Sheryl Zeisler, Boyd County Farm Bureau members.

The Greater Horizon Scholarship is awarded to a student or students aged

18 to 35 who are from a Farm Bureau member-family and who plan to study an agriculture-related field full-time at a college or university. Recipients must plan to return to production agriculture. Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential through extracurricular activities and work experi-ence.

Poppe, age 18, would like to return to Crofton after com-pleting college, to continue to work on his family’s farm and to pursue a career in agribusiness. He has been employed by Poppe Farms since January 2007 and has been working 30 hours a week in addition to attending Crofton Community Junior-Se-

nior High School. He is a 12-year member of 4-H and has served as club president. He also has been president of his FFA chapter and was selected to attend the Nebraska Agricultural Issues Academy at the 2011 State FFA Convention. He is a National Honor Society member and participated in band for eight years. He also is very active in his church.

Zeisler, 18, plans to return to his fam-ily’s row crop, dairy and beef operation after graduation from college. He’d like to purchase his own land and have his own farming or ranching operation. He has been em-ployed by Zeisler Cattle Co. for 11 years,

working as many as 50 hours a week, and also worked at a neighboring farm for three years. At West Boyd Public School, he was a Student Council mem-ber for three years and was selected for Cornhusker Boys State. He is a nine-year member of 4-H and has participated in FFA for five years, serving as treasurer and junior advisor. He also has been ac-tive in his church youth group.

Day said the purpose of the YF&R scholarship is to encourage and assist young people to meet their personal goals of higher education. “The scholar-ship is designed to help those individuals who have a clear vision of returning to production agriculture after complet-ing their higher education,” Day said. Nebraska Farm Bureau Services is the founding contributor for the Greater Horizon scholarship.

$1,000 Greater Horizon Scholarships Awarded to Students from Crofton and Butte

LukeZeisler

Travis Poppe

Washington, D.C. — The Agriculture Department projects a record U.S. corn crop this year, but despite the expected increase in production, American Farm Bureau Federation economists emphasize that stocks are still tight and corn farmers will need strong yields to meet demand and build stocks to more comfortable levels.

USDA released its May World Agricul-tural Supply and Demand Estimates on May 11. It pegs U.S. corn production at 13.5 bil-lion bushels in 2011. If realized, this would be the largest U.S. crop ever, outdoing the record 13.1 billion bushel corn crop in 2009.

PRELIMINARY ESTIMATE“It’s important to remember that this is a

preliminary estimate from USDA. A lot can change from now until harvest, Todd Davis, AFBF crops economist, said. “We still don’t know the impact late planting in Corn Belt states east of the Mississippi will have on this year’s corn crop. We’re going to need a warm summer with timely rains to realize this 13.5 billion bushel corn crop.”

USDA projects U.S. corn farmers will plant 92.2 million acres this year, 5 percent more than last year and 7 percent more than planted in 2009. If realized, this would be the second-highest planted corn acreage in the United States since 1944, behind only the 93.5 million acres planted in 2007, ac-cording to USDA.

ESTIMATE REFLECTS LATE PLANTING

Davis notes that USDA projects an av-erage yield of 158.7 bushels per acre in its May estimate for the 2011 corn crop, which would be slightly lower than the long-run trend of 162 bushels per acre and the 2009 record yield of 164.7 bushels per acre. “The lower yield estimate reflects this year’s later-planted crop, Davis said.

USDA still sees a very tight supply situa-tion for the 2011/2012 crop year. “For the corn crop harvested this fall, USDA projects a stocks-to-use ratio of 6.7 percent. This is a very tight supply, representing just 25 days of use,” Davis said. “Because of tight stocks

and strong demand, USDA projects high prices for this year’s harvest at $5.50 - $6.50 per bushel.

Corn Supply Tight Despite Projected Record Crop

Corn planting is moving along in Nebras-ka. Corn farmers will need strong yields to meet the expected increase in demand.


DEALER LISTING

Vermeerag.com

EXCLUSIVE DIRECT CROP FEED SYSTEM! No rotors! No secondary stuffer drives! Rugged, reinforced 5-bar pickup. Heavy-duty rubber-mounted tines. Fast, consistent starts with new DUAL-STAGE BELT TIGHTENING SYSTEM.New BALE EXPERT MONITOR with real-time bale weight/moisture data.

Super M BalerIntroducing the all-new

Super Pickup!Fast Starts!Expert Intelligence!

©2008 Vermeer Corporation. All rights reserved. Vermeer and Vermeer logo are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries.

©2008 Vermeer Corporation. All rights reserved. Vermeer and Vermeer logo are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries.

ATKINSONFLANNERY HAY EQUIPMENT INC888-352-6429

BENKELMANBOB & DEE STAMM

BALER SALES308-423-2892

Bob 308-423-2441

LOUP CITYELDON KIEBORZ FARM

308-745-0293

PRAGUEPRAGUE HAY EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY

402-663-6333cell 402-480-3298

WESTERNDENNIS & SHARI SCHWISOW

402-433-2136

CENTRAL CITYHERK’S WELDING INC.

308-946-3761www.herkswelding.com

MINDENWEAVER FARM SERVICE

308-832-1051308-233-4308 cell

O’NEILLNORTH CENTRAL AUTOMATION

402-336-1900

OSMONDASCHOFF CONSTRUCTION, INC.

866-748-3551www.aschoffconstruction.com

No matter what brand of pivot you have, proper maintenance provides better reliability, longer life – and a more produc-tive growing season.

Your dealer can service any pivot using Genuine Lindsay Parts to make any necessary repairs or replacements.

components

Now’s the time to invest in a lifetime of irrigation savings.

For maximum durability and efficiency, choose Zimmatic.®

No matter what your irrigation needs are, there’s always room for improved efficiency – especially when it comes to higher yields and your bottom line. When you purchase a Zimmatic irrigation system, you’ll save money, time and labor.

Zimmatic offers:

Precision water application for maximum yields

Long-lasting, durable constructionfor years of dependable operation

Award-winning irrigation technology

Support from certified Zimmatic professionals

To learn more, talk to your local Zimmatic dealer or visit www.zimmatic.com

ASK YOUR DEALER ABOUT THE MONEY- SAVING OFFERS YOU CAN CHOOSE FROM!

© 2010 Lindsay. All rights reserved. Zimmatic is a registered trademark of the Lindsay Corporation. Certain restrictions and conditions apply. See your local Zimmatic dealer for complete details. www.zimmatic.com

HOLDREGEHUSKER IRRIGATION

308-995-8340

O’NEILLKRACL IRRIGATION CO.

402-336-4437

HYDROSERVICE

HYDROSTATICTRANSMISSIONS

Combines - Skid Steers andIH Hydro Tractors

Roland, Iowa 515-388-4096

• Rebuild • Technical Support

• Sales • Emergency Service

REBUILD SALESTECHNICAL SUPPORTEMERGENCY SERVICE

Combines - Skid Steers IH Hydro Tractors

Choppers - Sprayers - Swathers

DuraliteTrailers

All Riveted,All Aluminum,All The Time

Clark, SD

1-800-437-8931www.duralitetrailers.comDealers Wanted!

Jill Walters (left photo), a fourth grade teacher at Cody Elementary School in North Platte, and Kathy Wilke, a fifth grade teacher at Randolph Public School, are the 2011 Nebraska Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the Year recipients. They were presented with plaques on May 3 and April, respectively, by Nebraska Farm Bureau Ag Promotion Com-mittee members Jo Anderson and Becky Graham. The award is sponsored by Nebraska Farm Bureau’s Ag Promotion Committee and the Agriculture in the Classroom program. Walters and Wilke receive an all-expense paid trip to the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., June 22-25.

Outstanding Agriculture in the Classroom Teachers

Jill Walters and Jo Anderson Becky Graham and Kathy Wilke

Consider making a donation to NFAAso the next generation understands where their food and fiber comes from!

Call Nebraska Foundation for Agricultural Awareness at 800-546-3496 www.agclassroom.org/ne

PETSFOR SALE: 2002 APHA black Overo mare, excellent blood-lines, will consider reasonable of-fer or useful trade. Call Seward, 402/523-4108.

FARM EQUIPMENTFOR SALE: John Deere 3020 diesel with wide front, dual hydrau-lics, power shift, with or without Kosch mounted double 7 ft mow-er; also 42 ft. Rowse hydraulic rake. Call Amelia, 402/482-5599.

FOR SALE: AC66 combine, new canvas, ACWD45, good + tires, new wide front end, International C, serial #14653. Call Plymouth, 402/656-5285 or 402/239-3852.

FOR SALE: 501 Ford sickle mower, like new, 3 point quick hitch for 150hp tractor. Call Hooper, 402/654-3473.

FOR SALE: IH fenders for H or M tractor, used 1 year, paint condition is very good, no dents, $225. Call Wisner, 402/529-6746.

FOR SALE: skid steer buckets, new 72” manure/rock bucket with grapple, 84” large grain/

snow bucket, ask about other skid steer attachments. Call Hastings, 402/461-6656.

FOR SALE: 1937 IHC F20 tractor, good rubber on round spoke wheels, good tin, starts and runs well, $1,000. Call Te-cumseh, 402/335-7563.

VEHICLESFOR SALE: 1989 Cadillac Brougham, 4 door, electric win-dows, seats, locks, mirrors, grey with grey cloth interior, 119k miles, good condition. Call Sut-ton, 308/379-3108.

FOR SALE: 2004 Dodge Stratus, V6 engine, 107,000 miles, gets 24-25 mpg, asking $4,500. Call Lincoln, 402/617-8483.

FOR SALE: 1987 150 Ford pickup, 4x4, 4 spd, manual, long box, 6 cyl, 2 tanks, 6 tires and wheels, brown and tan. Call Valentine, 402/376-2709.

FOR SALE: 2004 Toyota Tundra SR5, access cab, 119k, 4x4, V-8, good tires, runs great, $13,500 OBO. Call Bridgeport, 308/279-0872.

FOR SALE: 2004 Ford F350 XLT, 6.0L diesel, super duty, 4x4, long bed, extended cab, tow, auto, blue/gray, excel-lent condition, clean Carfax, 166k miles, pictures, below book, $14,900. Call Omaha, 402/917-6425.

FOR SALE: 1984 Lincoln Town Car, 53,500 actual miles, one owner, always garaged, dark blue with half leather, sun-roof, very great condition in-side and out. Call Wood River, 308/383-1816.

FOR SALE: 1967 Chevy ½ ton pickup, 283, 4 spd, 87,000 actual miles, solid truck to re-store, $2,500. Call Palisade, 308/285-3414.

FOR SALE: 2004 Toyota Avalon, $7,000, one owner, great shape, always dealership maintained, great run-around town or school car. Call Lin-coln, 402/610-0534.

MISCELLANEOUSWANTED: Hamley or Ken-nedy saddles and others. Call O’Neill, 402/336-1119.

WANTED: class B mo-tor home, late model, under 80,000 miles. Call Grand Island, 308/382-8714 or 308/382-5990.

FOR SALE: medium mo-torcycle helmet, full face, red, hjc model: Hj-03, Snell/DOT approved, $100. Call Omaha, 402/680-5648.

FOR SALE: Artley clarinet, in hard case, excellent condi-tion, asking $150. Call Kearney, 308/234-1730.

FOR SALE: doctor’s buggy, stage coach, two other buggies, bob sled, all in good condition. Call Merriman, 308/684-3426.

FOR SALE: Kanal steel com-bination storm windows, 3 31.25x37, 2 35.75 x 53.25, 2 39.75 x 53.25, 1 39.75 x 53.25, 2 31.75 x 45, all white, very good condition, $125. Call Fre-mont, 402/721-1782.

FOR SALE: Studio knitting machine with accessories in-cluding ribbing attachment, automatic yarn changers, knit radar with patterns and auto-

matic linker; three wheel battery-powered scooter. Call St. Libory, 308/687-6445.

FOR SALE: small enclosed 5x6 trailer, fiberglass top, new tires with spare tire, new red and white paint, ready for Husker tailgating or hauling, $500. Call Omaha, 402/346-2773.

WANTED: old mechanical slot machine, pinball or Wurlitzer jukebox for decorating game room. Call Doniphan, 308/390-4082 or email [email protected].

FOR SALE: portable Intelligent dry heat sauna with Far infrared ray, $200, excellent condition. Call Lincoln, 402/423-0776.

FOR SALE: JD rotary hoe, model #400, stored inside, Buf-falo Scout guide, model #470-1-003, serial #34891. Call Clarks, 308/548-8627 or 308/548-2605.

FOR SALE: Hazelton Brothers upright piano and bench, good condition, $125 OBO, Thomas electric organ with bench, good condition, $125 OBO. Call Battle Creek, 402/675-8425.

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 Natalie Friesen, Nebraska Farm Bureau News, P.O. Box 80299, Lincoln, NE 68501 or email [email protected]. If you would like to rerun your ad you must resubmit the typed or printed ad. Previously submitted ads will not be kept on file. Deadline is the 1st of each month. (No issue in July.)


FOR SALE2008 Nitro 750 w/90Hp Mercury Optimax

Asking $15,000

Let your fishing season begin on-board the NITRO!

Original Owner

Features include: a deluxe console with full instrumentation; a large aerated divided live-well; two large, lockable rod boxes; and two fish finders - a Lowrance

X47 fish finder w/surface temperature, and a Hummingbird 141c.

Other features include: a 12-volt-46-lb. thrust; 42” shaft; foot-control Motor Guide trolling motor; 90-horse Mercury outboard; and a custom-matched

trailer with Galva Shield protection and swing-away tongue.

Boat extras: life vests; fire extinguisher; oar; battery charger; extra seat that matches boat (same as rear seat); and boat cover.

Call Omaha at 402-871-7867

Nebraska Farm Bureau has started a blog, which you can access through our website, www.nefb.org. Various Farm Bureau staffers will be posting to the blog, on a variety of top-ics. This post is by Cheryl Stubbendieck, vice president of public relations.

Blog posted on May 10, 2011 by nefbIt’s hard to be against anyone or anything

that’s working to bring broadband access to the last acre of rural America. Like other business people, farmers have been want-ing the same high-speed access others enjoy almost since Al Gore founded the Internet.

LightSquared is a broadband network provider. In January, the Federal Commu-nications Commission gave the company a waiver which will allow it to operate high-speed broadband over frequencies normally used by low-powered satellite-based systems, such as Global Positioning Systems.

Farm Bureau is concerned that construc-tion of high-powered cellular base stations could interfere with the frequency used by GPS and wants the FCC to conduct a sci-entific evaluation of the LightSquared plan

before giving it approval. As a condition of receiving the waiver, LightSquared said it would work to prevent interference with GPS.

Farmers use GPS for a lot of functions: for precision agriculture; applying fertil-izer and chemicals; and for mapping field boundaries, roads, irrigation systems and problem areas in crops, such as weeds or disease. GPS lets them go to specific locations in a field, year after year, for jobs like collecting soil samples. It lets them work when visibility is low, when

there’s rain, dust, fog or they’ve run out of daylight.

Nebraska U.S. Sens. Ben Nelson and Pat Roberts of Kansas are also asking FCC to reconsider, citing “substantial concerns that LightSquared’s proposal places an unaccept-able risk to public safety through interfer-ence with GPS receivers necessary for avia-tion, first responders, maritime navigation, E-911, and national defense systems.”

High-speed broadband services are im-portant to rural America — but not at the expense of losing GPS.

Farmers Want Broadband, But Aren’t Willing To Compromise GPS

Kim, diagnosed in 2000 WE EXIST TO MAKE SURE

IT DOESN’TMultiple sclerosis interrupts the flow

of information between the brain and the body and stops people from moving.

With the help of people like you, the National MS Society addresses the

challenges of each person whose life is affected by MS and helps them stay

connected to the great big moving world.

JOIN ThE MOvEMENT jointhemovement.org

NationalMultiple SclerosisSociety

A u t o | H o m e | F a r m / R a n c h | L I F E B u s i n e s s | C o l l e g e | R e t i r e m e n t

Peace of mind for life

Visit www.fbfs.com and click on the “Ratings & Reviews” banner to get started.

Take a minute to check out “Ratings & Reviews” on FBFS.com u See what other customers are saying u Rate the claims process and share your experience u Write a review about your Farm Bureau Member’s Choice policy

1The guarantees expressed are based on the claims-paying ability of Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company. Securities & services offered through EquiTrust Marketing Services, LLC+, 5400 University Ave., West Des Moines, IA 50266, 877/860-2904, Member SIPC. Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company+*, Western Agricultural Insurance Company+*, Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company+*/ West Des Moines, IA. +Affiliates *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial Services © 2011 FBL Financial Group, Inc. LI141-ML (2-11)

Ensuring financial security for you and those you care about most is more important than ever. Life insurance can help provide that security, along with guarantees1 and peace of mind.

Visit www.fbfs.com or contact your Farm Bureau agent to review your life insurance needs and learn how we make it simple to help secure your family’s financial future.

TELL us wHAT you THInk. We value your opinion and want to know how we’re doing.

NE-Life(2-11)R.indd 1 1/14/11 12:29:56 PM

Documents

Nebraska Farm Bureau News - May 2011