TOP YOUNG FAMILY JOHN AND JILL MAHAN

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KentuckyKentucky Beef Beef Council Council 176 176 Pasadena Pasadena Drive Drive Lexington, Lexington, KY KY 40503 40503 (859) (859) 278-0899 278-0899 www.kybeef.orgwww.kybeef.org BroughtBrought to to you you by by Kentucky beef beef producersproducers through through The The BeefBeef Checkoff.Checkoff. Kentucky Farm Bureau NEWS is published month- ly by the Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation and mailed to all regular members. Bulk postage rate is paid at Lebanon Junction, KY. Changes in address and/or your comments should be mailed to:

Kentucky Farm Bureau Communications Division FB enters the new year following what many said was our best PO Box 20700 annual meeting ever. More than 1,300 members were on hand to Louisville, Kentucky, 40250 enjoy a very eventful agenda. Our staff is to be commended for a K Kentucky Farm Bureau is a voluntary organization great job in planning and conducting this event. After a year as president, I of farm families and their allies dedicated to serving as find myself echoing what Sam Moore often said — that we have the best the voice of agriculture by identifying problems, staff of any organization, anywhere. developing solutions and taking actions which will improve net farm income, achieve better economic We had a tremendous group of speakers. We were especially pleased to opportunities and enhance the quality of life for all. have Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns give the keynote address at the commodity luncheon. He certainly didn’t disappoint the sellout crowd as he KFB OFFICERS assessed the prospects for the farm bill and the World Trade Organization Marshall Coyle President negotiations. Besides being a brilliant and very caring individual, Secretary Mark Haney 1st Vice President Johanns is simply a nice guy. It was truly an honor to have him on our pro- John Hendricks 2nd Vice President David S. Beck Executive VP gram. KFB DIRECTORS The commodity lunch program also featured a warm welcome from Louisville Metro Mayor and a “state of Kentucky agricul- Tripp Furches Murray ture” address by Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer. Randall Heath Hickory Steve Bolinger Pembroke As always, Senator Mitch McConnell was a delight to listen to. He’s as Kelly Thurman Livermore good as they come at captivating an audience with a mix of humor, per- Eddie Melton Sebree spective and timely information. Our members always seem to hinge on his Sam Moore Morgantown J. Fritz Giesecke Horse Cave every word; and rightfully so, because he has been a tremendous ally of our Larry Thomas Elizabethtown organization. Paul Hornback Shelbyville Dave Petitjean, a humorist and a Louisiana Farm Bureau member, had Al Pedigo Fountain Run Scott Travis Cox’s Creek ‘em rolling in the aisles, as they say, with his comments to a general ses- Patrick Henderson Irvington sion audience. And, of course, we were delighted to have AFBF President Terry Rowlett Campbellsburg David Chappell Owenton Bob Stallman as the keynote speaker at the public affairs breakfast. Kim McCoy Burkesville The many highlights also included the “Agricultural Economic Outlook Mark Haney Nancy Conference” conducted by economists from the UK College of Agriculture. Danny Wilkinson Columbia Terry Gilbert Danville This has become one of the most popular events, and for good reason. The David L. Campbell Stanford presenters do an outstanding job of exploring the economic prospects for Alex Barnett Cynthiana our major commodities. This year’s conference was far and away the most John C. Hendricks Winchester Marshall Coyle Owingsville positive we’ve seen with good outlooks for all but one of the major farm Russell Poore Russellville commodities in Kentucky. David McGlone Grayson The achievements of our young people took center stage on several Charlie Benge London Bige Hensley Manchester occasions amid a wave of awards that were handed out. A special salute Cathy Pleasants Stanford goes to Madison County Farm Bureau, which received the top county Daniel Gaston Russellville award for 2006. Terry Patterson Elizabethtown Rodney Kelly Frankfort Policy, of course, was priority one. For an overview of the priority Jerry Little Danville issues, turn to page four of this publication. Scott Smith Lexington

Marshall Coyle KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU NEWS PRESIDENT Editor Roger Nesbitt Production Asst. Melissa LaRoche Graphic Designer Donia Simmons Pioneer Publishing Lexington, KY

ON THE COVER: “The Voice of Kentucky Agriculture” OYFF AWARD WINNERS JOHN AND JILL MAHAN, WITH THEIR 18-MONTH-OLD SON, LANE, CHECKED OUT THE KUBOTA RTV www.kyfb.com THAT WAS AMONG THEIR PRIZES. THEY WERE JOINED BY DON BARKER OF KUBOTA. PHOTO BY ROGER NESBITT 3 KFB ANNUAL MEETING Money issues top policy agenda for 2007 FB will seek full kets for ag producers. funding for The companies often K improvements to employ small work- the state’s livestock dis- forces, but provide huge ease diagnostic centers economic impacts in and press for better their regions. treatment of small busi- At the federal level, ness during the 2007 the farm bill rewrite will session of the General be the primary focus for Assembly. the ag industry in 2007. The organization U.S. Agriculture will also ask lawmakers Secretary Mike Johanns to grant full state told the annual meeting income tax deductibility crowd that he expects for health savings Congress will enact new accounts, to match fed- legislation giving agri- eral provisions, and sup- culture a leg up in the port establishing a pro- areas of foreign trade, ducer-funded boll wee- conservation and energy. vil eradication program He acknowledged to help cotton producers that the federal budget is in Western Kentucky. tighter now than in Voting delegates 2002, when the current adopted dozens of pages farm bill was enacted. of policy statements But he said deficit during the closing ses- reduction is ahead of the sion of the group’s 87th Bush Administration’s annual meeting in established timetable, Louisville, and the KFB SENATOR MITCH MCCONNELL SAID KENTUCKY WOULD BE WELL REPRESENTED IN THE and those improvements Board of Directors FARM BILL PROCESS. bode well for the ag approved condensed industry. lists of priority issues AFBF President Bob for the year ahead. The board also homeland security impacts. Stallman, addressing a Public Affairs approved a long-range plan developed “Caseloads at both the facilities breakfast, expressed optimism that the by various committees consisting of have really increased over the past sev- new Congress would look favorably on staff and volunteer members. The plans eral years, and with such threats as Farm Bureau’s farm bill goals. encompass recommendations to BSE and avian flu out there we expect Incoming Democratic leaders of strengthen the effectiveness of the pro- that use of the labs will continue to agriculture committees in the House gram of work for public policy, public expand,” Knoth said. and Senate have proven track records relations and promotions, member serv- She noted that improvements to the supporting sound agriculture policies, ices and operations. Lexington lab, which specializes in Stallman noted. In fact, Iowa Senator On the national level, KFB will ask equine cases, were funded during the Tom Harkin, who is expected to chair Kentucky’s Congressional delegation to 2006 legislative session but later vetoed the Senate panel next year, was in support maintaining the structure of by Gov. . charge of that chamber’s input during current commodity and natural resource “We’re very interested in restoring the 2002 process. programs as new farm bill legislation is the allocation for the Lexington facility, Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell, debated next year. but we think it’s equally important that who recently was elected Republican And the group voiced strong sup- funding be approved for capital expan- Leader of the Senate, also took an opti- port for further development of renew- sion at the West Kentucky lab and we mistic tone about farmers’ prospects in able fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel plan to make our case aggressively with Congress for the next two years. and for new technology which allows the legislature,” Knoth said. He told the annual meeting dele- the use of coal in the production of KFB plans to work closely with the gates he will work closely with Farm nitrogen-based fertilizers. Small Business Caucus on health insur- Bureau through his seat on the Senate At the state level, Public Affairs ance and tax matters. The coalition Agriculture Committee as the farm bill Director Laura Knoth said planned wants to see a portion of state econom- is crafted. upgrades to diagnostic labs in ic development incentives earmarked “Nothing happens in the Senate Lexington and Hopkinsville are impor- for small business development. without some level of consensus,” he tant both in terms of the animal agricul- Knoth said the recruitment of said. “Kentucky will be well represent- ture industry and for public safety and agribusinesses is vital to establish mar- ed during this process.”

4 JANUARY | KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU NEWS membership exceeds6 six million

ith Alabama re- and for our members to surface new families. Tennessee’s membership establishing its ideas and solutions in the coming year.” increase of 11,700 was the second largest W membership, Farm Tennessee Farm Bureau continues membership gain. Texas Farm Bureau Bureau membership across the nation to claim the title of the nation’s largest posted the third highest gain — 7,991 has surpassed the six million mark, to state Farm Bureau, with 619,951 mem- new members. The Kentucky Farm 6,199,285 members. The milestone was ber families. Joining Tennessee in the Bureau posted the fourth highest mem- passed as state Farm Bureaus reported 2006 “top 10” membership states are: bership gain with 5,959 new members. 486,770 additional members, including North Carolina, 487,614; Kentucky, The fifth highest increase was Florida the 431,384 from Alabama Farmers 453,123; Alabama, 431,384; Georgia, Farm Bureau with 5,642 new members. Federation. 429,710; Illinois, 417,618; Texas, The state with the largest percent- This is the largest growth in the 395,854; Indiana, 282,537; Mississippi, age gain in membership was Nevada history of the organization, according 235,125 and Arkansas, 230,076. with a 19.96 percent gain. Second was to AFBF President Bob Stallman. Following the “top 10” states in total Alaska Farm Bureau with a 14.85 per- “Reaching the six-million-member membership for 2006 were nine other cent gain. Maryland also increased by mark is a matter of pride for the organi- states with more than 100,000 members, double-digit percentage — 11.76 per- zation, its leaders and everyone who including: Ohio, 229,616; Michigan, cent. believes in Farm Bureau’s mission,” 201,177; Oklahoma, 166,355; Iowa, A total of 34 states reached mem- Stallman said. “It has been another 153,401; Virginia, 148,194; Louisiana, bership quota increases during 2006; challenging economic year for many of 147,858; Florida, 143,979; South this is three more than last year. America’s farm families, due to Carolina, 130,568 and Kansas, 109,244. “Across the board, Farm Bureau drought and other factors, but our Georgia Farm Bureau, the nation’s members can be proud of the unified membership strength will bolster Farm fifth largest, achieved the largest 2006 voice for agriculture they have formed Bureau as we work with our members membership gain — 17,024 member across the country,” said Stallman.

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Our readers dominate farming in the Bluegrass State. Do you sell equipment or services to Kentucky farmers? If so, you can’t advertise in a better place! Reach 79,000 Kentucky farmers in Kentucky Farm Call SCOTT J. WEINING Bureau News today for rates and deadlines. ( 502) 295-2249 KFB ANNUAL MEETING Executive Committee re-elected FB’s Executive Committee 6. Daniel Gaston of Logan County goes remains intact for 2007 while the on the board as the new chairman of K32-member Board of Directors the young farmer’s committee and UK will have five new members. College of Agriculture Dean Scott Bath County farmer Marshall Smith replaces Dr. Larry Turner, who Coyle was re-elected president without passed away last year. opposition and drew a standing ovation Also retiring from the board is from a crowd of hundreds at the con- Fayette County’s Jim Mahan. cluding business session of the annual Other members of the KFB Board meeting. Coyle is well known to KFB of Directors are Randall Heath of leaders across the state; he has served Graves County, Tripp Furches of on the board since 1976. Calloway County, Kelly Thurman of He vowed to continue to work tire- McLean County, Eddie Melton of MARSHALL COYLE CONGRATULATED MARK Webster County, Steve Bolinger of lessly on behalf of the state’s largest HANEY ON HIS RE-ELECTION. farm organization. Christian County, J. Fritz Giesecke of “I am very honored to serve as al committee that assessed the nation’s Hart County, Larry Thomas of Hardin your president,” Coyle told the crowd, beef cattle checkoff program and made County, Pat Henderson of Breckinridge “and I pledge that I will give it every- recommendations. Coyle recently County, Al Pedigo of Allen County, thing I have to represent you well. I am appointed Hendricks to lead a commit- Russell Poore of Logan County, David very fortunate to be surrounded by tee examining health insurance options Chappell of Owen County, Danny some excellent people and to be sup- for KFB members. Wilkinson of Adair County, Kim ported by my wonderful wife (Phyllis). In other developments, Shelby McCoy of Cumberland County, Terry I look forward to the challenges ahead.” County’s Paul Hornback returns to the Gilbert of Boyle County, David Mark Haney was re-elected First board after a one-year absence, win- Campbell of Lincoln County, Alex Vice President and Clark County’s John ning a seat from District 5 along with Barnett of Harrison County, David Hendricks won another term as Second Scott Travis, a Spencer County row McGlone of Carter County, Charlie Vice President. Neither were opposed. crop, tobacco and hay producer. A Benge of Laurel County and Bige Haney, who joined the board in large-scale tobacco producer, Hornback Hensley of Clay County. 1993, and his brother, Don, operate an long has been a leader and popular Cathy Pleasants of Lincoln County orchard and beef cattle farm near spokesman for tobacco farmers. He for- represents the KFB Women’s Nancy. He is chairman of KFB’s merly chaired KFB’s Farm Labor Committee, Terry Patterson of Hardin Resolutions Committee, which is one Advisory Committee and is regarded as County is from the insurance agents’ of the most important posts in the an expert on farm labor issues. association, Rodney Kelly of Frankfort organization. Travis and his wife, Robbie, were represents the Kentucky Department of Hendricks produces beef cattle, winners of KFB’s Outstanding Young Education, Jerry Little of Boyle County hay and vegetables on a 640-acre fami- Farm Family award. is from the agricultural extension ly farm near Winchester. He is chair- Henry County dairy farmer Terry agents and Sam Moore of Butler man of KFB’s Beef Cattle Advisory Rowlett was selected to replace the County has a spot as past president. Committee and also served on a nation- retiring Robert Reed Bush from District Women, young farmers choose leaders aniel Gaston, Russellville, is the vice chair of the women’s committee. and Tori Gaffney, Lancaster; Robert new chair of the Young Farmers Jane Elam from Lexington will serve McClanahan, Butler; Brent and Angela DAdvisory Committee, and Cathy on the executive committee as immedi- Blankenship, Pikeville and Shad and Pleasants, Stanford was re-elected chair ate past chair. Melanie Baker, Jenkins. of the Women’s Advisory Committee. There are 11 members comprising Members of the Women’s Advisory Gaston replaces Daniel Smith, both singles and married couples of the Committee, in addition to the three Stamping Ground, who served in the young farmers committee. Those mem- officers are: Bettie young farmer post one year. The new bers for 2007, including the officers, Wallace, Princeton; Betty Farris, vice chair of the young farmers group are: Chris and Misty Thorn, Almo; Roundhill; Vickie Bryant, is Ryan Bivens, Hodgenville, and the Micah and Lauren Lester, Gracey; Tompkinsville; Michelle Armstrong, secretary is Alison Smith from Ryan and Misty Bivens, Hodgenville; Taylorsville; Pam Chappell, Owenton; Stamping Ground. Daniel and Amy Gaston, Russellville; Carol Sullivan, Campbellsville; Jeanne Frieda Heath of Hickory, was re- Eric Sweazy, Taylorsville; Daniel and Ellis, Mt. Olivet; Margaret Hensley, elected first vice chair, and Phyllis Alison Smith, Stamping Ground; Manchester; and Terry Gilbert, Danville. Amyx, Campton, was re-elected second Stephen Williams, Monticello; Jason

6 JANUARY | KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU NEWS KFB ANNUAL MEETING Madison County is tops adison County captured the first- place award in KFB’s annual “top Mcounty” competition while Butler County was named tops among small counties (2,150 members or less) and Marion County was judged best for counties with 2,151 to 3,300 members. The prestigious top county award headlined more than 100 membership program and insurance awards presented during a breakfast at the annual meeting. Madison County has 5,723 members, two agencies and a variety of effective service programs. The federation board has a longstanding record of exemplary service to the county’s agriculture indus- try. Madison County continually ranks among the state leaders in the production of beef cattle and burley tobacco. In other presentations: • Owsley, Simpson and Shelby counties received top growth awards THE GROUP FROM MADISON COUNTY CELE- for having the largest percentage of BRATED THE TOP COUNTY DESIGNATION. membership gain from 2005. • District awards went to Calloway, Christian, Butler, Monroe, Fayette, the second consecutive year. Owen, Pulaski, Madison, Clark, Wolfe •Allen and Taylor counties were and Breathitt counties. honored for having 44 consecutive • Carter County was recognized as years of growth. the most improved county in the state. • Scott County was recognized for HERITAGE • Pacesetter awards went to coun- having the most effective information BUILDING SYSTEMS® ties in the three membership classifica- program, followed by Lincoln, Monroe Established 1979 tions that were first to achieve a mem- and Hardin counties. A Built To Last bership gain in 2006. Campbell County • Hancock, Breckinridge, Legacy was the winner among large counties, Campbell, Clay and Carter counties 30’ x 50’ x 10’ ...... $6,087 followed by Simpson and Owsley won awards for policy growth by their 40’ x 80’ x 12’ ...... $12,090 counties. Simpson won its award for local agencies. 50’ x 75’ x 14’ ...... $14,304

Since 1979 Heritage Building Systems’ focus has been to provide the GMGM hashas discountsdiscounts forfor KFBKFB membersmembers industry with the finest quality, best looking pre-engineered steel structures at the lowest possible price. FB has initiated a new member All GM dealers in Kentucky are services program that provides participating. To quality, you must be a K discounts on the purchases of paid member for at least 30 days prior GM vehicles. The new program, which to the purchase and must present your took effect on January 4, replaces the membership card at the time of pur- previous arrangement with Dodge. chase. Under the GM program, $500 KFB Executive Vice President member discounts are available David S. Beck said the GM program toward the purchase of more than 70 will serve a broader segment of mem- GM models, including Buick, Cadillac, bers because it provides more vehicle Chevrolet, GMC, Pontiac, Hummer, choices and a greater number of deal- Saab and Saturn. Additionally, a $750 ers. discount is available for the 17 E-85 “It’s an enhanced service to mem- 1.800.643.5555 (flex fuel) vehicles manufactured by bers,” Beck said. “We feel this will be www.heritagebuildings.com GM. well accepted throughout the state.”

BUREAU NEWS | JANUARY 7 Fayette County couple are top farm family

ohn and Jill Mahan of Fayette from Morehead State University. She The Mahans also board horses. County were selected winners of works fulltime in the farming opera- “We have several enterprises other JKFB’s annual Outstanding Young tion, handling recordkeeping, payroll than traditional agriculture that comple- Farm Family contest. They received a and personnel matters. ment and diversify our farming opera- Kubota RTV courtesy of KFB The Mahans have been farming for tion as well as better utilize our labor Insurance and Kubota, $1,000 cash 13 years. They own 251 acres and force,” John said. “Each of these enter- from Premier Crop Insurance, $500 operate on an additional 1,400 acres. prises is targeted at our surrounding from the Dodge Truck Division of This year they had 22 acres of tobacco, markets. We simply recognized a need Daimler-Chrysler, a $500 voucher from 125 acres of wheat, 535 acres of soy- and figured out how to profit from it.” Southern States Cooperative and a beans, 88 acres of turfgrass, 50 acres of John is a director of Fayette County $600 voucher from Miles Seed. They corn and 24 acres of alfalfa. They also Farm Bureau and is on the board of the also will get an expense-paid trip to Salt Lake City to compete in the have around 100 beef calves. Kentucky Corn Growers Association. national young farmer finals. The muck operation has been espe- He’s a member of the county extension Second place went to Mitchel and cially successful. service steering committee, National Gala Logsdon of Hart County. They “Our farming operation is right in Hay Growers Association, Turfgrass received 300 hours free use of a Kubota the middle of horse country,” John Producers International and Kentucky tractor, $750 from Premier and a $300 explained, “and so we came up with a Soybean Association. He’s also a gradu- voucher from Southern States way to profit from the biggest byproduct ate of the Philip Morris Ag Leadership Cooperative. Third place winners were of the thoroughbred industry. We have Program, as well as Kentucky Farm Scott and Mary Ann Porter of Fleming partnered with a local hay and straw Bureau’s leadership program. County. They received 100 hours free broker to rebale the slightly used straw The couple have a one-year-old use of a New Holland tractor, $500 muck. The broker delivers the muck to child. from Premier plus a $200 voucher from our farm, where we begin the recycling Southern States Cooperative. process. We are paid for every semi load Judging for the contest is based that is produced.” Mitchel and Gala Logsdon primarily on farm management skills, financial growth plus Farm Bureau The Logsdons are beef and community involvement. cattle and tobacco farmers Couples and single persons up to 35 with a 530-acre operation, years old are eligible. including 195 that they Following are profiles of the own. They have around award winners: 125 Angus cows in a commercial cow- calf operation and also raise beef John and Jill Mahan replacement The Mahans have a heifers. In crops, diversified operation with this year they tobacco, grain, beef cattle raised eight and alfalfa hay. They also acres of tobac- recycle horse muck from co, 70 acres of nearby farms and have a alfalfa and an turfgrass sod company. acre of corn John is a fourth-gener- for silage. ation farmer whose great Mitchel grandfather was the first has been agricultural extension agent farming on in the state. Jill comes from his own for a fifth-generation family 12 years and farm. He majored in is responsible Production Agriculture at the for all man- . Jill agement deci- has a Communications Degree sions relative to his opera- THE MAHANS RECEIVED A VARIETY OF tion. He got PRIZES, INCLUDING A KUBOTA RTV. out of the dairy

8 JANUARY | KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU NEWS business two years ago, selling a high Bureau board of directors quality herd of Holsteins. since 2002. He’s also active Mitchel is committed to having with the Cattlemen’s high quality cattle. Association. “I have always been interested in Mitchel began animal breeding and genetics,” he said. showing Holstein cattle “I want to develop a herd of registered at a young age and par- Angus of which I can market breeding ticipated in many FFA stock to commercial herds and for use and 4-H events. He in my own commercial herd. I believe holds a degree in that a purebred breeder should be in Animal Sciences from touch with the demands of the commer- Western Kentucky cial industry.” University; Gala is a He manages forage production on nurse. They have three both his farm and his father’s. He also children, ages 6, 3 and has a cattle partnership with his father. four months. “I consider myself very fortunate to be able to work daily with my father,” Mitchel said. “His experience and knowledge are priceless. I make Scott and Mary Ann the final decisions for my operation and he does for his operation. In the part- Porter nership cows we usually meet in the middle.” The Porters farm 1,028 The Logsdons have been members acres with a variety of forages of Hart County Farm Bureau for 13 and a large cattle operation years and have been recognized as the consisting of some 250 brood county’s outstanding young farm fami- cows, 450 dairy heifers and ly. Mitchel has served on 100 calves that are back- the Hart County Farm grounded. The couple are sole owners. Scott said he decided to concentrate on cattle after finding a market for quali- ty dairy heifers. Over the past few years he has moved from a cow-calf operation to THE PORTER FAMILY POSED WITH A LARGE stockers. GROUP OF SPONSORS AND KFB OFFICIALS. “I precondition calves to larger and healthier yearling cattle,” he improved rotational grazing practices explained. and water sources.” “This adds market value Scott has been on the Fleming to a large-scale feedlot. All County Farm Bureau board of directors three types of (cattle) opera- since 2001 and is active in the young tions have been successful, farmer program, as well as the advisory however. The heifers have the board to Farm Credit Services. He also best advantages in that I can negoti- serves on the local board of Southern ate purchase prices and receive a con- States Cooperative. He received a beef stant supply of healthy calves to sell cattle proficiency award from the back without a market concern.” Kentucky Young Farmer Association. His main goal, he said, has been As for the future, Scott says: “Our to improve efficiency and preserve his goal is for the volume of our assets to natural resources. be land, not machinery. The guiding “We have focused on idea is that land appreciates in value improved pasture manage- while machinery and buildings depreci- ment such as establishing a ate. We are more concerned about pay- higher legume content,” he ing off what we have today. I always said. “We also have like to be in a position to take advan- tage of opportunity.” AMONG THEIR PRIZES, THE Mary Ann is an elementary school LOGSDONS RECEIVED $750 teacher. The Porters have three chil- FROM PREMIER CROP dren, ages 4, 2 and five months. INSURANCE.

KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU NEWS | JANUARY 9 KFB ANNUAL MEETING Bill Kuegel Sr. wins service award

mental in helping to bring the national FFA Convention to Louisville for a seven-year run. The local FFA chap- ter named a scholarship in honor of his late wife, Carrie Newman Kuegel. Kuegel has received the “Man of the Year” award from Progressive Farmer Magazine and the Thomas Poe Cooper Award for Outstanding Service to Agriculture. The Owensboro Chamber of Commerce selected him for its outstanding farmer award. “Bill has been a farmer and a farmer’s friend since 1946,” said Daviess County Farm Bureau President Jeff Berry. “He has been a leader in the burley tobacco field and has worked to develop new markets for Kentucky products to find financial support for BILL KUEGEL SR. RECEIVED THE AWARD Kentucky farmers.” FROM KFB PRESIDENT MARSHALL COYLE AND Kuegel’s leadership ability has EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT DAVID S. BECK. made him a logical choice for boards and committees. He has served on the ® AUCTION & REALTY CO. advisory boards for colleges of agricul- ture at the University of Kentucky and “Kentucky’s Agri-auctioneers Western Kentucky University. He also aviess County farmer Bill Kuegel, was a trustee at WKU. He currently is since 1945” Sr. won KFB’s award for on the boards for Georgetown College DDistinguished Service to and Brescia University. UPCOMING AUCTIONS Agriculture. Kuegel, 82, received an He also has been a director for the N engraved watch and plaque. Owensboro Riverport Authority, 700 ACRES of mostly row crop Kuegel has farmed for 60 years, Owensboro Tourist Commission and Wabash Valley farm land, selling beginning with a small dairy and tobac- Owensboro Mercy Health Systems. in tracts, near Evansville, IN, co operation and eventually forming a Kuegel is well known for forging partnership with three brothers on more political alliances that benefit agricul- January 30th than 4,000 acres. He currently has a N ture. He worked closely with former 74 ACRES of gently rolling pas- partnership with his son, Rod, a former Kentucky Governor and Senator ture and wooded land, selling in executive director of the Burley and traveled to Japan and one tract, between Hardinsburg Tobacco Growers Cooperative Europe with Governor Julian Carroll to Association. They produce grain, and Owensboro, KY., February 1st promote agricultural trade. He also vis- tobacco and cattle. ited Africa and South America on trade N FARM MACHINERY ESTATE Kuegel was in the tobacco ware- missions. AUCTION including tractors, house business in Owensboro for 35 “Mr. Kuegel is an icon for agricul- years. His involvement in agricultural dozer, backhoe and equipment ture in not only Daviess County, but in leadership positions includes 13 years the state,” Scott H. McCain, a city between Owensboro and Bowling on the State Fair Board. He served four executive for Branch Banking and Trust Green, KY., February 6th years as chairman of that board and Company, wrote in a letter of support was a national president of the Burley Call about how we would sell your property for the Farm Bureau award. “Mr. Tobacco Warehouse Association. He Kuegel’s success in agriculture has 800-264-1204 has long been active in support of FFA, been administered to many people who garnering service awards on the local, have shared in the same ventures as www.kurtzauction.com state and national levels. He was instru- his.” 10 JANUARY | KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU NEWS KFB ANNUAL MEETING Bill Sprague honored for KFB work

BILL AND JULIA SPRAGUE ACCEPT- ED THE AWARD FROM MARSHALL COYLE AND DAVID S. BECK.

nion County farmer William R. He began his service to KFB with Kentucky Friends of 4-H. Sprague has been named winner the young farmer committee in Union In political circles, Sprague is well Uof the annual award for County and rose through the ranks to known for championing tobacco, trade Distinguished Service to Farm Bureau. serve in many capacities. He remains and environmental issues. He was a Sprague, 67, received an engraved active with the county organization. delegate to the 1998 World Trade watch and a plaque. After retiring from the presidency Organization meetings in Seattle, Sprague served as president of the of KFB, Sprague was named by AFBF where he spoke on the importance of state’s largest farm organization from President Bob Stallman to serve as free trade policies to American farmers. 1992-98 and was a state director for 31 chairman of a national committee that Union County Farm Bureau years. He has been active with KFB for developed recommendations for future President Mary Nelle White said 41 of the 42 years he has been farming. farm policy during a two-year process. Sprague is widely respected for his He has played a vital role in pro- The report from the so-called “Making enthusiasm and dedication. moting the agriculture industry to the American Agriculture Profitable” com- “His leadership in local and state general public and in championing mittee was widely acclaimed. positions has guided our organization agriculture issues in the political arena. Sprague has received countless through many difficulties and he has U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell was awards for his service to agriculture. truly been the spokesman for the among those endorsing Sprague for the Progressive Farmer Magazine named Kentucky farmer,” Mrs. White wrote in award, writing: “I appreciate and him the “farmer of the year” in a supporting letter for the award. “His respect his insight. The Kentucky Farm Kentucky for 1994. He has been select- insight and leadership skills have been Bureau has thrived under his enthusias- ed for distinguished service awards instrumental in mapping the futures for tic and visionary leadership. Bill has from the University of Kentucky both the Kentucky and American farm- worked tirelessly to strengthen the College of Agriculture, the Kentucky ers.” farming communities across Kentucky Soybean Association and the Kentucky Another letter of support came and the nation.” Pork Producers Association. He from First District Congressman Ed Known in Union County as “Billy received a top award from the Whitfield, who wrote: “I consider Bill a Bob,” Sprague was raised on a Union Kentucky Association of Conservation true friend of the agriculture industry.” County farm and earned a degree in Ag Districts. Eight county Farm Bureaus nomi- Engineering from the University of Former Governor Brereton Jones nated Sprague for the prestigious award. Kentucky. He started his own farming appointed Sprague to the Kentucky He and his wife Julia have two operation in 1964 and gradually Economic Development Commission. children: Andy, a farmer in Union expanded to more than 4,000 acres of Sprague also has served on the County; and Shelly, an attorney in row crops. National Beef Council and chaired Campbellsville.

KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU NEWS | JANUARY 11 Scenes from KFBthe ANNUAL annual MEETING meeting...

KFB PRESIDENT MARSHALL COYLE PRESENTED AGRICULTURE SECRETARY MIKE JOHANNS WITH A LOUISVILLE SLUGGER BAT AS A TOKEN OF APPRECIATION.

12 JANUARY | KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU NEWS LEFT: DURING THE POPU- LAR VARIETY SHOW, KATELIN FREDERICK OF LINCOLN COUNTY WOWED THE AUDIENCE WITH A SONG, AND PROPS, FROM “THE LITTLE MERMAID.”

BELOW: THE DISCUSSION MEET FINALISTS WERE (FROM LEFT) AARON REDING OF LARUE COUNTY, CLINT QUARLES OF SCOTT COUNTY, JACK LANE OF FAYETTE COUNTY AND LINDSEY BURKE OF HENRY COUNTY. MS. BURKE WON THE COMPETITION AND WILL REPRESENT KENTUCKY IN THE NATIONAL COMPETITION AT THE AFBF ANNUAL MEETING.

BELOW: SCOTT SMITH, DEAN OF THE UK COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, ADDRESSED A LARGE CROWD AT THE ANNUAL AGRICULTURAL ECO- NOMIC OUTLOOK CONFER- ENCE FEATURING UK ECONO- MISTS. THE PRESENTERS (FROM LEFT) WERE STEVE ABOVE: RYAN BIVENS RIGGINS (FEED GRAINS), OF LARUE COUNTY LARRY JONES (OVERALL MADE A SUGGESTION FARM ECONOMY), WILL SNELL DURING THE (TOBACCO), LEE MEYER BUSINESS SESSION. (LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY) AND TIM WOODS (HORTICUL- TURE)

13 COMPILED BY ED MCQUEEN, DIRECTOR OF MARKET INFORMATION

FARM ECONOMY OUTLOOK IS GOOD FARMERS MARKETS GROWING

Each year during the KFB annual The number of farmers markets in Total sales volume is estimated at meeting, the University of Kentucky the United States increased more than about $1 billion for 2005, compared to College of Agriculture presents its seven percent between 2005 and 2006, $888 million in 2000. Average sales Kentucky agricultural economic out- according to preliminary results of the per market totaled about $245,000; look. Here are some of the forecast:. 2006 USDA National Farmers Market average annual sales per vendor was Assuming a normal growing season, Survey. $7,108. USDA reports that, on average, without any major diseases, 2007 farm USDA’s National Farmers Market 25 percent of farmers market vendors cash receipts are expected to set an all- Directory lists 4,385 farmers markets, relied on these markets as their sole time record of $4.3 billion, compared to including 139 in Kentucky. The direc- source of farm-based income. $4.1 billion in 2006. The gain will be tory is available at www.ams.usda.gov/. primarily due to 13% higher crop receipts, as livestock receipts may rise less than one percent. Livestock receipts accounted for 61% of the 2006 total. The projected record farm cash receipts are not expected to result in record net farm income in 2007 because of lower government payments and higher input costs. Net farm income likely declined in 2006 from the record $2.082 billion set in 2005. Tobacco acreage in 2007 may be constrained without further price incen- tives. Tobacco production and cash receipts are uncertain, but have the potential to expand if growers are encouraged by better prices and the labor situation shows signs of stabiliz- ing or improving. The price outlook for corn, wheat and soybeans depends on several supply- demand factors. Current high prices work to slow consumption and encour- age more production. Acreage shifts this spring could impact prices. Cattle prices in 2007 should be down from 2006. High feed costs and drought increased cow slaughter in 2006, so a smaller herd may result in slightly less beef production. While slaughter cattle prices may only drop slightly from 2006, average feeder prices are likely to be $4 to $10 lower. The complete economic outlook is detailed in a report available online at www.uky.edu/Ag/AgEcon.

BEEF TOUR SCHEDULED IN MARCH

The annual KFB Beef Tour is being planned for March 27-30 to the Denver, Colorado, area. The tour will provide 50 KFB members the opportu- nity to see various aspects of the beef industry, including cow-calf operations, feedlots, and related industries. For more information on the tour's itinerary, cost and registration dates, contact the KFB Commodity Department at 502/495-5000, extension 7243. 14 Two new OFFERS. For members only.

Kentucky Farm Bureau Members can get $500 towards the purchase or lease of most new GM vehicles. We’re also offering $750 off the purchase of any GM E85 FlexFuel vehicle (E85 is a blend of 15% gasoline and 85% ethanol).* Visit livegreengoyellow.com to find an E85 fuel station near you. Our extensive vehicle lineup includes the all new 2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra, both redesigned to help you tow more than before and stop at the pump less. As the exclusive automotive partner of KYFB, GM is proud to provide these private offers which are compatible with many GM consumer incentive programs. For details, visit gmfl eet.com/kyfb.

*$500 or $750 private offers valid toward the purchase or lease of eligible new 2006, 2007 and 2008 GM passenger car and light-duty truck models. Excludes Cadillac XLR, XLR-V and STS-V; Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and SSR; HUMMER H1, Saturn SKY, Pontiac Solstice and medium-duty trucks. Customers must take delivery by January 3, 2008. Not compatible with other private offers. Not valid on prior purchases. See dealer for complete details.

9449 KFB 2007 Ad_7x10.indd 1 12/14/06 11:51:22 AM 38790_L_Crop_Ins_vend.indd 1 12/12/06 8:02:11 AM