Inside This Issue: Profiles in FFA Leadership
Star Farmers: Telling It Like It Is THEY'RE CROPPING UPALLOVER. Some farmers say it's the best mission with a super-low first gear. racks can haul everything from tool- thing they've ever put on their soil. And a handy reverse so you can get boxes to cattle feed. 1" Hondas FourTrax 250 four-wheeler in to—and out of—just about any And if your north 40 is more like a and Big Red® three-wheeler. tight spot. north 400, you'll appreciate Honda's Both have dependable four-stroke You'll appreciate the virtually unlimited mileage, six-month engines, with enough muscle to tow maintenance-free shaft drive and warranty." twice their own weightr And they the convenient electric starter. Plus Honda's new FourTrax 250 and can go many places a tractor or pick- the comfort of full front and rear Big Red. They love to do just about any could near. up never get suspension. job you can think of—even if it's just Each features a five-speed trans- Their front and rear carrying horsing around.
Unners are always in control— they know what they're doing. So read your owner's manual WINNERS RIDE SAFELY 5carefully. And make sure your ATV is in good operating condition before you ride. Always wear your helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Get qualified training and ride within your skills. Never drink when'you ride. Never carry passengers or lend your ATV to unskilled riders. Ride with others— never alone— and always supervise youngsters. Respect riding area rules. Keep noise levels low. And take good care of the environment. Winners care about the image of their sport. They care about each other. And thev know that riding safely and courteously makes riding more fun for everyone. For a free riding instruction booklet," write : American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Dept. 044, P.O. Box 7055, No. Hollywood, CA 91609-7055. 1
Mure farmer April-May, 1985 Published by ihe Fuiurr Farmers of America Volume 33 Number 4 ISSN 0027-9315
In A Word With The Editor This Issue 1985 Farm Bill We must learn to live with change. All Here's a brief overview of this year's farm bill debate. 10 about us, every day, things are changing. It Like It Is Nowhere are these changes occurring more Telling Our Star Farmers tell in their own words they reached the top. 1 frequently than in agriculture. how 4 One change taking place that has some "Good Enough" .lust Doesn't Cut It ^ , worried is the number of bright, people Dave Seil won the 1984 ag mechanics award with his mind on perfection. lO promising students who are leaving agricul- ture. Some have called this "talent erosion." PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP: Special Section that It has been reported, for example, A Big Future in Farming ^ „ college since 19X0, enrollment in U.S. ag Pete Mercer lives on a corporate farm where diversity is the key. 1 O programs have dropped by about 20 percent. The Sky's The Limit _„ During this same period, enrollment in high Whether it's producing livestock or leadership, Cindy Blair loves both. ZU school vocational agriculture and the FFA Man of Many Faces _ — has fallen by over 50.000 students nationwide. This national public speaking winner makes an impact with FFA'ers. Z.5 If this trend continues, America is in
danger of losing its position as the world's Brunswick Comes Back — -. greatest producer. This FFA chapter is growing by meeting the needs of its community. L\) A made-for-television special entitled "Agri- These Winners Develop Tools for Profits culture's Next Generation: A Conflict of Ag Computer New Farm Visit with three members who help farmers with computers. Interest." addresses the problem. The show is FFA 28 Eddie Albert. Others appearing narrated by Sizing I'p Used Machinery feature include Senator Robert Dole of in the For beginning farmers, tips for buying sound used equipment. 30 Kansas; Dr. Charles Benbrook. National Academy of Sciences; Dr. Duane Acker, A Night At The FFA Banquet .„ president of Kansas State University; Dr. Our own Alex Curtright takes us on an amusing but valuable adventure. 4U Russell Mawby. chairman of the Kellogg Foundation; and Dr. Larry Case, national FFA advisor and senior program officer for vocational education in agriculture in the U.S. Department of Education. The national FFA organization commis-
sioned the program which was aired over 1 20 television stations nationwide by four spon- sors: Monsanto, Yamaha. DuPont Company and Ford Tractor. Because of limited advertising money, it In Issue was not possible to cover the entire United Every States. However, if your station would be News In Brief 4 Chapter Scoop 34 willing to air the show free as a public service, local support, you can or can get advertising Mailbag FFA In Action 42 get a tape of the show at cost which is
approximately $75 to $ 1 00. Contact Cameron Looking Ahead 12 The Joke Page 46 Dubesatthe National FFA Center (703) 360- 3600. The Cover: Cover Photo by Michael Wilson Tony Edmond, of Dublin, Georgia, uses this biltmore stick to measure board footage, height, volume and stand of trees at his FFA chapter's forestry plot. Tony's story begins on page 23.
Offices Magazine Staff National Officers National Staff Advertising Executive Officer. Larry The National FUTURE FARMER Editor-in-Chief. Wilson W Carnes National President. Steve Meredith, Route 1, National Advisor Chiet Harris, P.O Box 15160 Managing Editor. Michael Wilson Glendale. KY 42740: National Secretary. Mike Case. Executive Secretary. Coleman A Miller, Alexandria VA 22309 703-360-3600 Senior Editor. John M Pitzer Gayaldo. P O Box 966. Kelseyville. CA 95451 National Treasurer. David Director Wilson Carnes. Publishing Assistant. Jo Colley National Vice Presidents. Mike Barrett, R R 1 Administrative W The Brassett Company Programs. Lenme Contributing Editor. Shirley Jones Box 5. Mead, NE 68041 Nana Mason P O Box Manager of International 17409 Marquardl Avenue Specialist (Avvardsl Director of Advertising. Glenn D 412, Collins. MS 39428, Graham Boyd, Route 1, Gamage. FFA Program Cerntos CA 90701 213-802-2571 Robert Seefeldt FFA Program Specialist Luedke Box 5. Pinetown. NC 27865. Brad Bass. P O Box Robert Flahive Company tContestsl. Ted Amick, FFA Program Specialist Advertising Assistant Joyce 8erryman 944, Ml Vernon TX 75457 22 Battery Street Hoyt Director ol Circulation Fulfillment Manager i Leadership) Tony San Francisco, CA 94 1 1 415-781-4583 of Directors Audio-visual Dottie M Hinkle Board Information. Cameron Dubes, ol FFA Midwestern States Assistants. Chairman. Larry Case Members of the Board. Specialist. William Slagg, Director Ag, Group 20, Inc Ada George. Dottie Welzel, Flovd Doering. Duane Nielsen, C W Reed. Lee Supply Service Dennis Shafer: Executive 400 N Michigan Avenue Yvonne Byrnes, Helen Daugherty Traver, Les Thompson J W Warren, Donald E Director FFA Alumni Association. Robert W Chicago IL 60611 312-644-5560 Longina Flakowicz Georgia Wilson Cox Manager of Accounting JoAnn Grimes Jersey Williams. Harriett Fidd Ohio Pennsylvania. Delaware New Ag Group 20 Inc PO Box 251 Old Greenwich CT 06870 203-637-4397 Vernon Highway. Alexandria. Virginia 22309 POSTMASTER: Send address The National FUTURE FARMER (ISSN 0027-9315) is published bimonthly by the Future Farmers ot America, 5632 Mount changes to The National FUTURE FARMER. P.O Box 15160, Alexandria. Virginia 22309. Alexandria, Virginia 22309 CORRESPONDENCE: Address all ADDRESS CHANGES: Send both old and new address to Circulation Department The National FUTURE FARMER. P O Box 15160. approximately eight miles south of Alexandria Virginia correspondence to The National FUTURE FARMER P O Box 15160, Alexandria Virg,nia22309 Offices located at the National FFA Center 50c 35c each Foreign subscriptions, S2 50 plus S2.00 extra for postage SUBSCRIPTION: S2 50 per year in U S and possessions (FFA members S1 25 paid with dues) Single copy five or more Copyright 1985 by the Future Farmers of America -The FFA Over News in Brief $8,000 in Get Ready For WCP heavily on a committee of 15 or more experts in the field, including FFA The Washington Conference Program Awarded Monthly members, staff, vo-ag instructors and (WCP) is now accepting applications local school superintendents. The goal: from FFA members interested in to identify problems and possible attending the 1 985 conferences, to be solutions for vocational agriculture held in Washington, D.C. this education. The study, which has been summer. Eight week-long seminars in endorsed by Secretary of Agriculture leadership training are scheduled for John Block and former Secretary of this year's program, beginning June 17 Education Terrell Bell, is scheduled to and ending August 3, 1985. The conclude within a vear, at a cost of registration fee is 10 per student and S3 $300,000. S235 per advisor. Conference Directors Bruce Kettler and Perry Storms will National Staff Changes head up a team of talented staff Responsibility for the FFA Calendar counselors. For more details, scan the Program and FFA in-house Printing brochure mailed to your FFA chapter Services has been transferred to the in March; a detailed program will be FFA Supply Service Division to make mailed this month. room for expanded computer Vo-Ag Leaders Meet communications activities in the national organization's Publications The National FFA Board of Directors Division. Jack Pitzer. Senior Editor met at the National FFA Center in for The National FUTURE Alexandria, Virginia, to make some FARMER magazine, has been far-reaching decisions which will assigned to oversee FFA News and impact heavily on the organization. Information on the Ag Ed Network. few highlights Here are a bound to FFA's nationwide computer network. affect members and instructors most: Mr. Pitzer will continue his duties with • COMPUTER SERVICE— The Draw Me the BETWEEN ISSUES newsletter board recommended a six-month and The Sational FUTURE You may win one of five $1,495.00 design and field test "to determine the FA RMER. Art Scholarships or any one of fifty feasibility of and design for a proposed $10.00 cash prizes. National FFA Agricultural Computer New FFA Alumni Make your drawing any size except Service," which would provide Manual qualified like a tracing. Use pencil. Every software information, reviews, entrant receives a free professional discount software sales, and a software Need information on organizing an estimate of his or her drawing. "library" for vo-ag instructors who FFA Alumni Affiliate? You can find Scholarship winners will receive wish to materials for out step by step when you read the Fundamentals of Art taught by Art preview needed FFA Alumni Manual, recently Instruction Schools, one of America's their classrooms. The board will decide published by the national FFA leading home study art schools. Our whether or not to implement the objective is to find prospective program in July after project results Alumni Association. The manual also students who appear to be properly have been studied. The FFA includes information on membership, motivated and have an appreciation Foundation Board of Trustees dues, suggested activities, award and liking for art. approved a SI 2,500 grant to fund the programs and tax-exemptions. It's Your entry will be judged in the studv. available now through the FFA month received. Prizes awarded for • NATIONAL OFFICER Supply Service, for S3. 25. Printing and best drawings of various subjects production costs for the manual were received from qualified entrants age GRANTS The board approved picked up by Merck Company 14 and over. One $25 cash award for increasing the national officer financial Foundation, a special project of the the best drawing from entrants age 12 grants (previouslv called scholarships) as and 13. No drawings can be returned. from S2.000 to 54,000 for each officer National FFA Foundation. Inc. Our students and professional artists upon completing their vear of service. not eligible. Contest winners will be • SPONSOR AWARENESS notified. Send your entry today. PROGRAM The board approved a MAIL THIS COUPON TO ENTER CONTEST plan to encourage each FFA chapter ART INSTRUCTION SCHOOLS to write letters of appreciation to at least Sponsors, Studio 5A-3540 ten FFA Foundation 500 South Fourth Street school and state administrators, for Minnesota 55415 Minneapolis, supporting vocational agriculture. The
Please enter my drawing in your plan is currently being tested. monthly contest (PLEASE PRINT) Vo-Ag Study Name The National Academy of Sciences Occupation Age will attempt to define key issues and Address Apt challenges as it launches a new study ffa; of vocational agriculture education, City State ALUMNI" according to Dr. Phil Ross, executive- MANUAL! County -Zip.- secretary of the Academy's Board of Telephone Number Agriculture. The study will lean FFA Alumni Manual
c 1985 Art Instruction Schools
I he Vational II 77 RE FA R WER ^n IPYOU'RE WBABIN6 THE BEST SHANTUNG STRAW HAT.
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All the while, you'll be earning a good salary. If you a like to spend your summer acquiring more than a tan, call toll free 1-800-USA-ARMY. ARMY RESERVE. BEALLYOUCANBE. Uaillma SKILL GUILDER — The way Keep Vo-ag Growing In your February-March issue you to taking your best shot! published an article "Cancelled Until Further Notice." It tells about how vocational agriculture classes are being dropped all over the nation due to budget cuts. valu- Vocational agriculture teaches Learning to shoot is a serious responsibility. It requires a level able qualities which include leadership, head, good instruction and a firearm that is manageable and citizenship, cooperation, record keeping comfortable for you to handle When you're ready for the shoot- and many others. I believe that agricul- ing sports, you're ready to think about owning a M055BERG. ture is just as important as science, math We've put a lot of thought into building a firearm to help you and language. perfect your shooting skills Joe Schilling Largo. Florida There are some pretty good reasons why the MODEL 500 JUhlOR slide-action shotgun is the right choice To start 1 am writing in response to the article "Cancelled Until Further Notice." This Ifs a 20 gauge on a 20 gauge frame that is lighter than a 12 gauge, can handle lighter loads lighter recoil. article was worth the effort it took to and has I The short 13" buttstock lets shoulder the firearm write it. If people are aware of the you without stretching trigger still problem, they can try to solve it before it — you can reach the and begins and keep the program alive and keep your head down growing. — For better swing and muzzle control, there's a 20" Annette Clark ACCU-CHOKE barrel This barrel with interchangeable Mount Pleasant, Michigan ACCU-CHOKE tubes lets you select the correct choke for the game — whether target or hunting Word Distinction — The chamber can handle both 2%" and 3" shells. Load I enjoyed reading the article "New it as single-shot or load the magazine to make it a 5- Crop Technologies: How High Can We shot repeater. Go" (February-March, 1985). However, Safety — at the top rear of the receiver, "right under as an agricultural engineer and member your thumb" The safety button is easily operated of the National Society of Professional (left- or right-hand) and more quickly seen than those Engineers, I wish to call attention to on the trigger guard. your use of the term "genetic engineer- ing." While the use of this term is The MODEL 500 JUMIOR isn'tjust for the beginner — it widespread, it is not appropriate. There can grow right along with you An extra full-size buttstock. is a clear distinction between an engineer s available for just $9.95. And, there are always a wide and a geneticist. It may be too late to variety of extra interchangeable barrels for other game. prevent the term "genetic engineering" 5 tart with a skill builder and stay with it — taking your from being used, but at least let it be best shot is easier with a firearm that will become a known that agricultural engineering is partner for the shooting sports something very different. Mark Steven Byerly Whatever your sport, learn the rules and Harrisonburg, I Irginia safety first When you're sure of the tar- Jacket History get take your best shot — on your own In the February- March issue I read firearm, a M055BERG! "The Story of the FFA Jacket." I had For a free copy of our latest catalog showing often wondered where, when, how and our complete line of sporting firearms, write: why the FFA jacket originated and now my questions have been answered. Tikeyta Lankford LeFlore, Oklahoma ill \1# I really enjoyed the article on the FFA MOSSBERG jacket. We even went as far as to include part of it in ouragribusinessmen's break- fast during which we have our Greenhand ceremony. We thought the story would give the Greenhands a better appreciation b receive catalog and patch, enclose $ 1 of the jacket and the businessmen an 25 explanation of why the official FFA is 4055BERQ jacket so important to members. J Ifi Mindy Gardner 'tjept Kingwood, Texas 7 Qrasso Avenue north Haven, CT 06473 I enjoyed reading about the beginning of the FFA jacket in the February- March issue. B handling is every shooter's Jeremy Baker t all firearms as if they are loaded, St. Joe, Arkansas ive rounds only when ready to fire ata known, (Continued on Page 8) ^Safe target April-May. 1985 . the area of Montana, North and South my attention, "Life in America." Along Mailbag Dakota and Minnesota. with my FFA activities, I am also a third- I am interested in small scale, multi- year French student. As I graduate (Continuedfrom page 7) crop farming and dairy work, but my this year I leave behind some very adept Need Help? only real requirements are to be able to younger friends in the FFA chapter. I work outdoors, learn about what day-to- would like to see some of these people in I am a junior at Hunter College High day farming is really like and also be able the WEA program. School. Next year I will be in an Inter- to get to a college or high school. I don't Amanda Byrom College-Year (ICY) program. This is mind working hard and I have some Randle, Washington basically a year to do work that I am experience. Preferably, I'd like to earn interested in learning about while taking Compliments food and board. two or more college-credit courses. I am As a past FFA member and present Zoe Neaderland interested in a farming job and if you alumni member I relish this outstanding, 800 West End A venue could help me, I would greatly appreciate motivational magazine every time it York, 10025 some advice. New NY comes. The magazine helps us realize the What I would really like to do next WEA Enthusiasm unlimited opportunities to build on for year is to work on a farm, or in a farm I read the February-March issue with our future. training, hands-on kind of program in interest. One particular article caught Roland Fisher Covington, Ohio Featured Farmers We would like to thank you for the article you wrote about us ("The Farming The knife that's taking America by storm Fever." December-January, 1984-85). Our families have really enjoyed the article. I think it took the article to make them realize that not everyone has done KBuckLite what we have. We have received letters from younger FFA members telling us that starting out small is the way to go. Now there are three! Todd and Rebecca Mitchell Burr Oak, Michigan "Unbelievable" BuckLite! An amazing combination of light weight and Continue subscription rugged durability. When we introduced our first modeMast year, we were I'm now in the Rosen Wald FFA but little startled at just pleased a how quickly BuckLite became so Chapter which I will be leaving in May, popular. you have your choice of three: the original BuckLite, Now which 1985. I have now received the FFA 4!4 3 is " closed, with a clip blade; BuckLite II, with drop-point blade, 3 A" magazine for four years and would like 7 III, /b" closed; and our big BuckLite 4 closed, with drop-point blade. All to continue. I really enjoy reading them three feature Buck's finest steel blade . . . Buck's positive lock-open action because they are helpful to me. . . . rich maroon handles made of Valox* an engineering- quality Kendall Gibson thermoplastic . . . and come in a tan and brown- trimmed nylon Morganza, Louisiana sheath. See them all now at your favorite dealer. Good Publicity 'Valox is a registered TM ol Genera! Electric Thank you for publishing my joke. It is the second joke I've had published in the magazine. It is a real honor since BUCK friends all over the United States see my name in such a prestigious magazine. KNIVES - ^ They write and say, "Wow, Mary Ann, Famous for holding an edge! you got vour name in The National FUTURE FARMER. That's terrific!" Write for free booklet, KNIFE KNOW-HOW Mary Ann Waldhauser Dept. NFF-485, P.O. Box 1267, El Cajon, CA 92022 Loyal, H isconsin Convention coverage I am very proud to be in the North Vernon Chapter here in Indiana. This is my second year of ag and being in FFA and I really like it. I went to the 57th National Convention in Kansas City and 1 couldn't begin to tell my parents everything that happened, so when my mom saw my FFA magazine with the information about the conven- tion she really liked it. Robin Evans North I 'ernon, Indiana Send letters or notes with name, address and chapter to: MA1LBA G, Tlte National FUTURE FARMER. P.O. Box 15160, Alexandria, VA 22309. All letters are BUCKLITE II Model 424 subject to editing. AMERICAS FAVORITE! The Sational FlTl RE FARMER "Old MacDonald needs a new Bayou™ 300 "Running a farm isn't child's play. It's a tough business. And tough jobs call for tough workers. "So Kawasaki's raised a new crop of4-wheelers that'll get you to the south 40 and back with more power than any ATV in the field. And with a bushel of incentives. "Like both front and rear suspension. Shaft drive. Five speeds. Reverse. Automatic clutch. "And Bayou's got two more features that'll keep you in tall cotton. Front wheel hydraulic drum brakes. And exclusive Dual-Mode Differential. "You won't catch me "Lock it for max pulling power. Or unlock it for tighter turns on anything and less disturbance of topsoil. else." "Bayou 300 is one tough tractor. So get down to your Kawasaki dealer now and make hay. "If you've got farming headaches, you can't spell relief E-l-E-i-0 You spell it B-A-Y-O-U." Kawasaki TAKING IT TO THE LIMIT For off-road use only. Specifications subject to change without notice. Availabil- ity may be limited. Always wear a helmet and appropriate apparel. Protect the environment and obey laws and regulations that control the use of your ATV. . What FFA Members Should Know About The 1 985 By John Dutcher American agriculture is at war with itself. The battle over the 1 985 Farm Bill, which includes just about everyone in the industry, resembles a civil war. Unlike most civil wars, however, there is no one issue or idea which sums up each side. Small game hunting, plinking or target shooting. Whatever Instead, industry and government are your sport, Federal has the right ammunition for you. battling for a farm bill to change the face High velocity Federal Hi-Power* 22s with copper-plated of agriculture, a face which has become bullets-regular or hollow point-pack a game-stopping blemished over the years by the over- wallop. They're available in 50-round box or sturdy 100-round application of expensive government farm plastic pack. Economical Lightning™ 22s in the familiar programs. blue box, with lubricated lead bullets, are great for your Farm programs are, quite simply, recreational shooting. And now Federal offers two cartridges pieces of legislation to regulate a particu- for the 22 Magnum-one full metal jacket load and the second lar facet of agriculture, control pricing of jacketed hollow point. So try a box or two of Federal 22s commodities, or limit production of cer- today; prove their performance for yourself. tain ag products. All the pieces of legisla- tion, collectively, make up a farm bill, which is voted on by Congress and FEDERAL signed into law by the president. In the FEDERAL CARTRIDGE CORPORATION, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402 past, most farm bills were written to last four years. The 1 985 Farm Bill is designed to last 1 5 years, according to the USDA. At one time, four years was about right for a farm bill. When markets were good, the federal government passed II legislation to limit production and in- Win $9 crease the prices farmers received for Enter Hesston's 1985 Salute to their products, often in the name of protecting soil and water resources. Agriculture Contest for FFA Members! Now, experts say our farm policy has caused those markets Write an essay (100 words or less) about agriculture and how you feel about to go sour. Al- though farm programs do prevent farming or ranching life. Winners will be judged on originality and how well the some erosion of American soil, they are blamed writer captures the spirit that has made American agriculture what it is today. for eroding U.S. agricultural markets $1500 in Prizes abroad. "For every acre we take out of produc- First Prize: 100 finalists receive a tion in this country, we start another acre One Winner - $500 Cash FREE Commemorative Second Prizes: Two Winners - $250 Cash Belt Buckle of the 1985 Third Prizes: National Five Winners - $100 Cash Finals ,^r°% Winners will be announced at the FFA National Convention in Kan- Rodeo! sas City in November. SOCIAL NEW RULES- Complete rules are available from State and Nalional 4. Entries will be |udged upon their content, which FFA offices or by writing Hesston Corporation. A for- should be original in nature mal entry form is not required 5. All entries become the property of Hesston 1 Entrants must be bonaf ide members of the FFA who Corporation are in good standing Each member may submit one 6. Entries will be judged by a panel of agri-industry entry. executives selected by Hesston Corporation 2. In 100 words or less, write a message about agricul- Judges' decisions are final and not subject to ture and how you feel about farming or ranching life appeal 3. Entries must conform to the rules of the contest, 7. Entries must be postmarked by Sept. 30, 1985 and with the date submitted, name, age, address, phone mailed to "Salute." Hesston Corporation, Box 4000, number of the entrant, FFA Chapter legibly writ- Hesston, Kansas 67062 ten, and word count ot your "Salute." Hesston Corporation, Hesston, Kansas 67062 © Hesston Corp 1985 Lilho in USA Richard W. Goldberg, of USDA: "We THE PRIME LINE real • I need to enter the world market." III HESSTON The National FUTURE FARMER & DORSET SHEEP "the mother breed" Out of Season Breeding Good Mothers— Good Milkers Outstanding Carcass Ouality For more information & breeders list contact: Farm Bill Continental Dorset Club, PO Box 506, Hudson, Iowa 50643 Big Jim Halters I \ Cuts Halt&r Brooking Tlmo In Half A Results Guaranteed 4 sizes ad|ust to any animal ^ Chrome Plated • design. With j^ fl» hor information write. production overseas," says Richard Long-term a 15-year ji of Vj*J BIG JIM HALTER CO. W. Goldberg, deputy under secretary of farm bill, farmers will be able to make \\ y Rt. 3, Box 3138, Boerne, TX 78006 Agriculture for International Affairs and long-term decisions without worrying Commodity Programs, USDA. Goldberg that government policy will change direc- says an "outdated" farm policy which tions four years down the road. HAMPSHIRES... controls production is just one reason • Programs that are market-oriented. Start your project with the breed that has a bright future. lost its This would make the price of agricultural why the United States has compe- Write for information titive edge in world markets. also commodities determined by the world He Jim Cretcher, Secretary market, not the federal government. cites a strong U.S. dollar; the high U.S. The American Hampshire Sheep Assn. budget deficit, keeping interest rates high; • Consistency. This will insure that pro- P.O. Bo* 345-F, Ashland, MO 65010 (314) 657-901 2 target prices for U.S. commodities; and grams designed to help one commodity foreign investment. or aspect of agriculture don't hurt others. Actually, the current farm program It will also make sure U.S. farm policy is National Suffolk can be blamed for at least one of those consistent with international trade policies Sheep problems; a high U.S. budget deficit. In and programs. 1974 farm programs cost the federal • Orderly transition for all commodity Association programs. Through the next five years, government $12.7 billion. The 1981 Farm Top meat producers. Top bill Bill had a price tag of $63 billion, the would ease out of some commod- breeders It adds up Suffolk Goldberg says. According to Don Paarl- ity programs and into others so producers Is the superior breed! For ell the details, write: berg, a Purdue University professor, cost don't get the rug pulled out from under of 1983 commodity programs alone them. • Equity. At the end of the transition reached $21.7 billion, greatly exceeding Box 324-F the net farm income of $16 billion. period, producers in commodity pro- Columbia, These are some of the reasons those at grams will be dealt with fairly. Missouri 65205 work on the 1985 farm bill have looked Although most agree that letting the not only for ways to improve agriculture, free market establish prices for agricul- but also make it less of a burden on the tural products is good, many facets of taxpayer as well. agriculture that have price supports for their commodites are worried about Mr. A Free-market Approach Planer Molder Saw Block's "transition" and what it will do to "What we sincerely need is farm legisla- their businesses. tion that is sturdy enough to stand up to "We need to enter the real world the inherent volatility and uncertainty in market," says Goldberg. "U.S. farm policy agriculture yet, flexible enough to stay has tried to create its own market and with a rapidly changing agriculture," has expected the world to come here to Secretary of Agriculture John Block told shop. Our prices are too high and they a group of analysts at an annual USDA haven't." conference. Mr. Block outlined five goals Prices are the things most commodity the USDA hopes to achieve with this groups and associations are worried about vear's bill: right now. Many fear producers won't survive the transition to the new farm bill Secretary Block is proposing. Because of this, groups are spending lots of money on lobbying efforts in Washington, to make sure their interests are protected. power-feed shop turn Many fear that it will result in a farm bill Now you can use this ONE to rough lumber into moldings, trim, flooring, furniture that tries to be all things to everyone and —ALL popular patterns. RIP-PLANE-MOLD . . . sepa- with a single motor. Low Cost ends up providing few benefits at all. rately or all at once . . . You can own this power tool for only $50 down. "Interest in agricultural policy has reached a fever pitch." says Paul Weller, 3f^Day FREE Triaj! ^STacts a Washington-based agricultural public NO OBlfGAT/ON-NO SALESMAN Will CAll FOLEY BELSAW CO affairs veteran. "This is going to be the RUSH COUPON 90636 FIELD BLDG bloodiest battle over farm policy in our TODAY! KANSAS CITY, MO 64111 lifetime." ------T \ Fo ley-Belsaw Co It be long, in may a hot summer 9063690f Field Bldg :i wf/ Washington, as Congress debates the 3 'i V Ka nsas City. Mo 64111 jj 1 Please send me complete facts about | VCC j pros and cons of different programs in L-1 ,to PLANER -MOLDER -SAW and the bill. No one seems to be willing to details about 30-day trial offer ' venture a guess as to when the bill will be Paul Weller: This is going to be the blood- ready for the president to sign. It's just iest battle over farm policy in our lifetime." wait and see and hope. ••• City April-May, 1985 I II State_ -Zip- jr I renas -m in q Agriculture m -m -m Look i m> A head Ridge Till Works perishable fresh fruit and vegetable Land Prices Sink commodities," he adds. Illegal aliens Land prices continue to slide in At one time, ridge-till methods for are by far the largest component of all most parts growing crops were considered a bad alien seasonal work force in U.S. of the country. According to choice due to low yields and poor agriculture. Doane's Agricultural Report, weed control. But recent statistics California. Iowa. Nebraska and parts show ridge till can hold its own in Prime Farmland: of Florida have been hit the worst. both these areas and may be more Slipping Away? Nebraska and Iowa show declines of efficient and economical than 20 to 25 percent in the last year, and According to USD A, one million acres conventional till methods. A Missouri. Kansas and Oklahoma land of prime farmland, our country's University of Minnesota study prices dropped between 15 and 20 best farmland, are lost each year to compared conventional tillage, chisel- percent. It is part of a long, dramatic urban development. About 800,000 reduced tillage and ridge-till and found swing in land vilues which began in acres will be used for housing tracts, each method produced about the same the early 1980s. Iowa land values, for highways, airports, industrial sites or level of corn and soybean yield over a example, have dropped 37 percent parking lots, and another 200,000 multiple year average. Many ridge-till since the 1981 peak. acres will be covered by water for farmers says weed control is no manmade lakes and reservoirs. The Grain Storage problem either, because the fact that this land is level and well- undisturbed soil between rows A lapse in storage management can drained makes it attractive to builders combines with previous crop residue to lead to costly grain deteriorat.on and and developers. So far, attempts to snuff out weeds. Other university result in market discounts or reduced curb the loss by state and local studies show ridge-till methods were feeding value, say researchers at governments have been less than no different than conventional tillage Dekalb-Pfizer Genetics. Stored grain successful. programs in insect damage. should be checked for storage mold Environment Affects Most Farmers Satisfied and insects at least every two weeks. Temperature, moisture and oxygen E.T. Success With Jobs level in the grain system are three Replying to a 1984 Iowa State Controlling the social and important factors to monitor. Cooler University poll, over 1,500 Iowa environmental factors surrounding a grain can tolerate slightly higher farmers said they were very satisfied donor cow can double or triple the moisture content and slightly higher with their occupation and another 39 number of healthy embryos available temperature will be less detrimental percent said they were somewhat for embryo transfers, according to two with drier grain. If you detect satisfied, despite the difficult and Kansas S:ate University veterinarians. significant insect activity in stored serious financial problems facing many "We urge farmers to allow no changes grain, you may need to fumigate. producers today. Only 16 percent in the cow's environment no new indicated they were dissatisfied as Analyzing Dairy Program pen-mates, none removed, no pen farmers and 4 percent said they were changes," says Dr. David Carnahan, Did the dairy diversion program undecided. Almost three-fourths of one of two founders of the KSU work? After 30 years of operating the those who responded said they would embryo transfer program. "Nothing is dairy price support program to remove become farmers if they could choose done which might stress the donor surplus dairy products from the their occupation again (below.) cow." Apparently the idea works commercial market, the USDA*;, national average for successful embryo diversion program was the first transfers is four healthy transferable "Would you become a farmer attempt to add voluntary supply- embryos per cow. but the KSU if you could choose your management provisions. It apparently average over the past vear has been occupation again?" helped reduce production and 6.5. contributed to a sharp drop in goverment purchases, says USDA Illegal Aliens: Farm dairy economist Cliff Carman. "It's Workers, Too unlikely that this kind of voluntary incentive program can eliminate a "Illegal aliens." or "undocumented surplus the size of the one we had in workers" currently make up about 50 1983," he says. 70 percent of the harvest work force in western agriculture, where almost Greenhouse Changes 300.000 workers harvest crops are changing, due to annually, says Patrick H. Quinn. Greenhouses dramatic design engineering executive vice president of the and advances. In agricultural National Council of Agricultural Nebraska, engineers have developed a computer Employers. Total agricultural work can estimate costs for a force estimates vary widely because model which variety of greenhouse heating and "peak" (harvest) employment can cooling systems. At the University of exceed year-round need by a ratio of Massachusetts, engineers have 20:1. says Quinn. "The largest majority developed a machine for erecting an of these illegals work in the short- greenhouse cover, season, labor-intensive, highly inflatable "in-field" which promises to save heating costs. 12 //;.• \ationalFl II Rt I iRMER HHMM NEWMMHMIMMMMMI WRANGLER 421 ROOTS RREAKTHROUGH AGAINST WEAR-THROUGH THE ONLY WESTERN BOOT WITH POLYURETHANE SOLES* OUTLAST LEATHER SOLES 4 TO 1 PLUS, A HAND- CRAFTED 3/4 WELT GIVES BETTER SUPPORT. "patent pending Licensee of Blue Bell, Inc. Genesco Park, Nashville, TN 37202 1 Photos By Bill Stagg Agriculture is "still the most vital industry," says Larry Nielson, 1984 Star Farmer of America. Telling It Like It Is Told in their own words, the 1 984 Star Farmer and Regional Star Farmers reveal how they achieve their goals in farming and FFA By Larry Nielson I enjoyed participating in extra curri- Star Farmer of America cular activities, so I got involved in FFA. Tulare. South Dakota Mv first attempts were not too successful: I tried to represent the chapter in the creed speaking contest and lost, then district contests to take part THERE were two reasons I took vo- attended the ag I was interested in farming and in the FFA test and again lost. Success the only other choice was home econom- finally came as part of my Supervised ies. Until entering the vo-ag classroom I Occupational Experience (SOE) Pro- did not know anything about FFA. gram, when I achieved Star Greenhand. f^SuJ^flHi \ »>^Li^HB II '; ''>£ :^J^J, ^^Hj^^^^^^^^-M ; ilJ ^W „ •v Sfa HP£s '*- 1 " i C! « IV ***; s '- l' .*• ' { -^ ! i mm-* J&m* • ' [ ' b . 4VH W^ «a*?7 < -MS 14 7 /»' \ ulionul I I It Rt: /•'IK! If K My interest in farming itself really was home: your parents and teachers. Use Setting Goals not very strong until my SOE program them. started bringing returns, and 1 learned • Be prepared to take advantage of By John Kline about the rewards and challenges of situations. When opportunity knocks, it Myerstown, Pennsylvania farming through FFA and vo-ag. I was doesn't like to wait. At the same time. Eastern Region Star Farmer exposed to agriculture early in life 1 realize your limits and don't bite off was on a tractor as soon as I could reach more than you can chew. • the pedals safely. Knowing what I was Always deal fair. It may be easy Mv first project in vo-ag was a getting myself into was a major factor in money now, but fast deals often haunt Holstein heifer and four veal calves. later has my final decision to farm. you when the other person what I have since built my herd to 62 registered you need. I 123 acres. I Ability to Manage Holstein cattle, and farm • It is almost impossible to start farming have worked to this setup with help from The ability to manage is the biggest today without some help. Whether it be a "buy-sell" agreement. single ability needed to make a living m\ parents and land, machinery, financial or knowledge, \1\ determination led me to the FFA from agriculture. Starting a farm is no any assistance you can get will make it grade. quality ol different from starting a business on program in ninth One easier to achieve your goals. success stressed by my chapter advisor main street. You need knowledge of how • Take advantage of FFA by learning Strickler was to set goals. to make the business function, and more Mr. (Gerald) from certain situations and competitions. These goals were to be realistic goals I importantly, how to cause it to make money. Now is the time to make your mistakes could achieve asan FFA member. Being where they only cost time and effort, not named the eastern region dairy proficien- Goals determine progress. 1 determine your whole operation. The margins winner! 19X3) being named mv goals, both short and long term, and cy award and allowed by agriculture today don't often been then make the budget work to satisfy eastern region Star Farmer have lend a second chance. ••• /( (iniinuecl tin Page 3K) them. This means being very realistic or even pessimistic about your expected crops for the year. At the same time I am A Star Farmer, One Generation Later striving for the best possible yields and efficiencies. When I have covered my needs 1 turn to my short and long-term goals for improving the farm. Right now 1 know what type of machinery will be purchased and improvements made for the next five years. If things work well, the timetable will be speeded up or even better items will be entered as improved goals. Education and experience determine what advancements you can make. You don't need to be able to recite how plants use fertilizer, but you do need to know the basics, and where to get answers to those hard questions which come up. Cherie and Richard Engelbrecht. Quality is more important than quanti- year was 1966. Eleven-thousand around it. The family farm consists of 800 ty. Efficiency will produce better returns The FFA members watched as Richard acres and 150 milking cows, almost all than overwork will. Work hard, but also Engelbrecht. dairy registered. After losing the farm's original work smart. a 22-year-old farmer from Madison, New York, was named barn in 1979 to a fire. Mr. Engelbrecht Vital Industry Star Farmer of America at the National redesigned a new one- a unique combi- No matter what gloom and doom you FFA Convention in Kansas City, Mis- nation of conventional and free-stall hous- hear, agriculture is still the most \ital souri. ing with a milking parlor. industry and therefore has a strong Much has changed since those days. Of all farm activities, showing cattle future. FFA has a strong responsibility The crew cuts are gone, interest rates are probably ranks highest among family- to train those involved to overcome the up, computers sit on farm desk tops... and members. Everyone gets invoked, includ- challenges. Farming is a business now, dairy farmer Richard Engelbrecht has a ing Richard's wife Gail and Cherie's and all businesses must be able to justify 1 7-year-old daughter who wants to follow brothers. Randy and Rick. The registered their existence. If the people entering in his footsteps. Ayrshire and Holstein cattle are shown at agriculture can be prepared with the Cherie Engelbrecht. a pretty, dark- local, state and national shows, such as knowledge to beat the odds, they will be eyed junior in the Madison FFA Chapter, the World Dairy Expo. successful. says she doesn't necessarily want to be- "I haven't missed a year showing cattle My advice to Greenhands is start with come a Star Farmer. But FFA does seem at the Boonville Oneida County Fair in what you have and make it the best it can to run in the family. Her interests in 30 years." smiles Mr. Engelbrecht. Cherie be. Then, move up and try to improve. leadership and public speaking helped owns 18 cows, and is responsible for Quality, not quantity, is what is impor- her set her sights on running for state and feeding and caring for all calves on the tant. The following is a laundry list of national FFA offices in the future. She farm. She has shown cattle since she was tips: turned heads this year when she was 10 years old. Her experience- plus good • Don't be afraid to use debt as a tool for elected chapter president — M adison's first quality stock- has earned one of her improvement, female to lead the chapter. yearling heifers national recognition. • You have valuable resources right at "I want to get invoked in public Between past FFA successes and hopes relations, telling people about agriculture." for the future. Cherie and her dad both Clockwise from left: John Kline, eastern says Cherie. a Madison honor student. have a lot to be proud of. And who region star, Mark McKay, western region She plans to attend Cornell University knows? Maybe 20 years from now. Cherie star, Steve Rogers, southern region star, next year after graduating. Engelbrecht will feel just as proud of the and Larry Nielson. Star Farmer of Amer- agriculture. grew generation of Enselbrechts! ••• ica. Cherie knows She up next \pril-\lay. 1985 For This National Proficiency Award Winner... "Good Enough" Just Doesn't Cut It By Bill Kelsey There are four things that 1 984 nation- al ag mechanics proficiency award winner David Seil thanks for his success: an insatiable curiosity about mechanical things; a father who had enough confi- dence to turn him loose to work on farm machinery at a very early age; a positive attitude; and, above all, an insistence on doing things absolutely right. Dave, a 1983 graduate of Gowrie. Iowa, studied ag mechanics at a nearby community college followed by one se- mester in farm operations, before grasping the challenge of a four-year course in farm operations at Iowa State University. At the age of 20, he may be learning a lot of theory now, but his winning skills in the twin subjects of electrification and ag mechanics were learned the hard way: Photo by Author by practical learning experience and Dave Seil says, "You've got to keep that positive attitude long, careful study of manuals and other books. wasn't long before Dave was tackling far really important. Whether he's working "Ever since 1 was a little kid," he more intricate maintenance and repair on his project tractor —a 1949 Farmall explains, "1 have always wanted to take jobs on the family's 700-acre crop and ("All I have left to overhaul now is the things apart to see how they work. 1 used livestock farm in the heart of corn and front end.") or joining in the chapter's to take my electronic toys to pieces and bean country. BOAC (Building Our American Com- "Dad always had a lot of confidence in munities) project (moving the old down- SEIL: "Ever since I was a little me and let me try things."Dave says. "It town railroad depot to a new location must have taken a lot of guts on his part." and refurbishing it for use as a museum), kid I have always wanted to take In his proficiency award application, or wiring the family house extension, things apart to see how they Dave explains. "I had a fascination for new garage and machine shed, "you've " work. the fine workings of precision machinery got to keep that positive attitude." he and wanted to know what made it tick. says. put them back together again, and any Through self-study and my vocational "Positive," in Dave's case, means not time I'm near any kind of implement agriculture training. I learned all about only enthusiasm for the job, but also full shop 1 have to see what they're working engines and machinery maintenance and regard for safety and for precision in on." am now rebuilding engines and perform- making sure everything is according to Dave's father, Duane, early recognized ing nearly all the maintenance, service specification. his son's mechanical ability and curiosity. and repairs on our farm machinery." "You've got to check and check again Remembering his own childhood, when Privately, Dave adds. "About the only to make sure you've done it right," he the inner workings of tractors were still thing I haven't tackled yet is a tractor or declares. "When you're wiring, make something of a mystery and his own combine transmission. I don't think 1 sure you ground every single thing that father wouldn't let him touch their ma- want to attempt that." should be grounded. With machinery, chines, Mr. Seil gave Dave the go-ahead. Dave believes a person's attitude has a torque the nuts twice — yes, do it twice. Dave recalls: great bearing on success. "Right now all You might have missed one, or not done "One of my earliest memories is of the newspapers are talking doom and it right." being allowed to change the oil on a gloom about farming." he says. "But Two years ago, Dave Seil reached the tractor. I was about five, and I'd get the then you go down to Kansas City for the central region ag electrification proficien- drain plug out and the hot oil would run National FFA Convention, and down cy award contest, losing out to the over my hand. That would startle me so there they are all saying 'It can be done' eventual national winner. Last year he that I'd drop the drain plug into the pail, and 'Everything's possible.' won his national award in ag mechanics. all the oil would run in on top of it and "Our chapter advisor. Dennis Kinky, He believes he owes much of that success I'd have to go fishing for the drain plug at is so positive and enthusiastic, it's great. to his basic philosophy: the bottom of five gallons of hot oil." That's what I like so much about FFA— "You have to keep reminding yourself Despite several scalded fists, Dave everyone's so positive in their attitudes." that 'Good Enough' just isn't good ••• persevered. So did his father, and it That's something Dave believes is i enough." K, I he Salionall-I It Rl I IRMER ^/^^^VOCATIONAL C w /^TRAINING Vocational training for the Christia. sn t have to or second rate. If the Lord is calling you into CARPENTRY FARM MANAGEMENT MECHANICS you can enroll in Bob Jones University's unique program where you'll receive vocational training that is both top -quality and Christian. No matter what your major, you'll benefit from the cultural emphasis and the fervent spiritual atmosphere found on our campus. COn BOB JONES University ISt) GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA 29614 N-//y TELEPHONE (803) 242 -5 1 OO ' V® ADMISSIONS TOLL FREE 1 - 800 - 845 -5 0O3 A fundamental Christian, liberal arts university offering: • More than 60 undergraduate majors in religion, education, fine arts, arts and science, and business • Nearly 40 graduate programs in religion, education, and fine arts • 11 majors leading to associate degrees in Christian service, trades and technology • Programs leading to one-year and two-year certificates • Instruction in music, speech, and art without additional cost • Grades K-12 in connection "Worlds. M.oii UvwAual UtdueAivUS Stands without apology for the "old-time religion" and the absolute authority of the Bible. All rights reserved PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP A Big Future In Farming Pete Mercer lives on a large, corporate farm where management is the key to survival By Michael Wilson On most simmering summer days in Washington's fertile Yakima valley. one can find fields of corn, hay, hops, potatoes, grapes, asparagus, fruit trees, wheat and a multitude of miscellaneous crops, ripening in the northwest sun. "You can grow just about anything in the valley." says 19-year-old Peter Mercer, of nearby Prosser, Washington. Pete is one of those few young farmers who could drive an hour before getting from one side of his family's ranch to the other. The family operates "Mercer Ranches. Inc.." 28.000 acres of land which produces a cornucopia of crops and livestock each vear. The locals call Above, Pele Mercer shows a sample from his family's vineyard. Left, a Caterpillar, trailer, potato digger and tractor are needed to harvest potatoes. Photos by Author is The Motional FVTl RE FARMER this territory Horse Heaven Hills, perhaps only time you get to talk to these people pivots, tractors and trucks. In doing all so named for its boundless beauty and is when you're deiseling up in the morning the preventative maintence that we do, green and gold landscape. "The farm was and eating lunch together at noon, but we can keep a rig running a lot longer. started way back, probably the early still you get these mental communications When you have the facilities to do it, it's 40s," says Pete, a recent state FFA going when you're sitting inside a wheat going to cut down the costs." president. "My grandfather divided it up truck. You can look at a combine driver The Mercer farm "shop" can hold up and ended up with 50,000 acres. Since and know what he wants you to do from to five four-wheel-drive tractors. I heir then we've sold and developed some the expression on his face. If he's frown- fleet contains "practically every range of 20,000 acres which is now what we call ing, then you know you're in the wrong John Deere tractor," grins Pete, "from a Mercer Ranches." place." 40-horse orchard tractor to 350 hp." Pete's father, Don, farms in partnership Harvest days are long about 1 4 hours, Other equipment includes two Caterpillar with uncles Rick and Milton, but each Pete says. He may be the boss's nephew, tractors to level land and rake out irriga- farm is a separate corporation. Much of but Pete works the same hours as other tion circles, and a grader for the 150 the acreage is cattle range and dryland workers. "When you're working for your miles of ranch road that is graded once a wheat, but over 2.000 acres under circle own father or uncle, you've reallv got to year. Two semi-trucks, three ten-wheelers irrigation produce 10-15 different crops watch yourself," he says. "It's a lot harder and a number of smaller trucks are used each year, depending on the market working for a relative because you don't to haul crops. outlook. Pete's two uncles specialize in major crops and livestock, and his own family produces apples and special vari- #** WR1 eties of grapes for wine. "I'd like to get back into farming after I finish college," says Pete, who attends Walla Walla College. "1 like the produc- tion and marketing aspects." There's plenty of both on a place this size. Last year the ranch produced grapes, apples, potatoes, pinto. Mexican jumping and navy beans, sweet corn, c rrots, alfalfa, wheat, barley and alfalfa seed. "We've also grown turnips and onions and sugar beets when the market was good," says Pete. %<"! The farm leaped into a new era in 1 after the John Day Dam was built on the nearby Columbia River. The Mercers installed a pump station and set up irrigation circles, giving the farm the ability to grow a diverse line of crops. That diversity boosts farm profits. "Farmers buy on a competitive market and sell on a set market," he says. "It's the vineyard's irrigation always going to be like that. But with Pete and his sister Elizabeth check a nozzle on system. more crops, selling on the set market gives us certain advantages that other want to be favored over the others. Besides his interest in farming, Pete industries don't have. Let's say corn, "We are constantly working our tails says he may someday get involved in wheat and cattle are selling for low off," he adds. "I've really come to respect politics. He's made it his hobby to follow prices, and that's all you produce. You're how hard the agriculture life is." issues. He also wants to double the 140- up a creek without a paddle. But when With 25 full-time employees, including acre vineyard and grow a couple hundred you're as diversified as we are you can managers, a secretary, two mechanics more acres of apples, "if the market stays always count on something making mon- and field hands, one might expect some good." ey, if you market wisely." occasional rough handling of the equip- Pete has already started building for Management ment. Not so, says Pete. "Our managers his future. He has accumulated shares in Pete works for his uncle in the sum- have worked for us for several years," he the family corporation which is still, he mers, driving combines and trucks. With explains. "You can go to farms in different argues, a "family" operation. "The family so many crops to harvest, experience and parts of the state where they're just as big, farm is not dying out and it's not getting management is needed. "You really learn and the equipment isn't as well kept up as smaller," he says. "It's just that farming is a lot when you work at such a large ours. Our employees treat things as if so much of a business now it's a lot place." Pete says. "Each crop requires they were their own. They take pride in smarter to have a corporation. different irrigation levels, different tillage what they do." "Ours is a relatively small farm com- and planting, and different fertilizer pared to neighboring farms." he says. rates." Vertical Integration "Some of the larger farms who thought Such an array of crops means workers The size of the Mercer operation that 'bigger was better' in the 70s are now- must be able to operate several different allows them to market crops direct!) to going broke. The reallv well-managed pieces of equipment. Five different pieces companies, often skipping brokerage farms have managed to keep above of harvesting equipment are needed to firms. "We try to market everything we water. harvest crops between July and Decem- can by ourselves," says Pete. "When you " Twenty thousand acres doesn't make ber, including combines, potato diggers. do that you're able to sell on the fresh you a millionaire." he adds. "It's a lot on carrot diggers and swathers. market for a higher price. It's the same paper, but a guy could live just as "Working on a crew is really a lot of with our equipment. If we can fix it comfortably off an 800-acre farm as fun." says Pete. "You meet a lot of ourselves, we save a lot of money. We 20.000 acres if he managed things different types of people. It seems like the stock most of the parts for our center right." ••• April-May, 1985 19 PROFILES IN >;.-£<* LEADERSHIP Cindy Blair has achieved in both FFA production and leadership activities. For this Oklahoma state officer, The Sky's The Limit Interview By Russ Florence Cindy Blair is as much at home on the farm as she is as a state ofticer. Editor's note: The plaques on the den FUTURE FARMER: Cindy, people But 1 did win extemporaneous that wall at Cindy Blair's home probably best join FFA for a lot of different reasons. night. My ag teacher came up to me and tell her story. What are yours? said, 'You just won extemp.' and 1 said, She was both Star Greenhand and BFAIR: 1 was active in 4-H and did a lot 'So what, that's not my division." He Star Chapter Farmer at her FFA chapter of public speaking. But I first got involved said. 'You can go just as far in extemp as in Noble, Oklahoma. Then she won two in FFA for the opportunities in livestock you could in prepared. But you have to divisions of the state public speaking judging. I enjoyed it and wanted to learn make that decision tonight." finals and later won the state sheep more about it. Fhe FFA turned out It turned out that the materials I had proficiency award. The next day she was totally different than I ever thought. It found in research for the FFA speech elected state FFA secretary. Seven provides so many different leadership helped me all the way to nationals in months later she placed second nationally activities, manv areas I never expected. extemp. He was right. Sometimes we in the extemporaneous public speaking FUTURE FARMER: What have you make plans for ourselves we limit our- contest, and finally, she earned t lie west- gained most from FFA? selves and put a ceiling on other things ern region proficiency award in diversified BLAIR: S If confidence and optimism. I we're able to do. livestock production. ..during her term as developed self confidence by becoming FUTURE FARMER: After winning in the state's first female FFA president. active. Before FFA. I used to just sit back a division you weren't even counting on. Cindy. 19. is a sophomore in agricul- and watch other people. 1 gained self how did you manage to succeed all the tural economics at Oklahoma State I ni- confidence by keeping involved. 1 used to way to the national contest'.' versity in Stillwater. Despite the fact site be really shy. Before the FFA. 1 had BLAIR: I placed second at district. (In now spends much time in school and never heard anything about setting goals. Oklahoma, you must place first or second w ith FFA activities. Cindy hopes to 1 soon came to reali/e it was helping me at district to advance to the state finals.) I someday return to her first love: agricul- whether 1 was reaching them or not. In just skinned by. After that. 1 went to an ture. She speaks out strongly for her working toward it. I was growing. ag teacher who 1 knew was good at profession, and intends to continue her FUTURE FARMER: They say you extemp preparation, and we talked about support as both producer and policy sometimes learn your biggest lessons possible topics and researched. maker. from failing. Is there any specific incident FFTl'RE FARMER: Would you say The Blair family is a strong one. Cindy you value as a great learning experience? research is the most important part of is the originator and caretaker of 123 BFAIR: (Laughs) I wrote this 'tremen- extemporaneous speaking'.' liccnl of Hampshire sheep, Duroc swine dous' FFA speech that I thought 1 would BLAIR: No. being mentally prepared is and commercial cattle on the family's take to nationals. I ended up getting most important. You must get totally tidy farm in central Oklahoma. She seventh out of nine at the local level. 1 psyched and be as positive as possible. spoke out recently about public speaking, was so crushed. 1 thought I was going to I)on"t listen to others who are scared. I production agriculture, a female's role in die. My speech was about current agricul- remember right before I drew my topic at agriculture and what it lakes to become ture issues and they were picking leader- nationals. Mark Herndon (a former na- successful: ship speeches that night. (Continued on Page 22) 211 the SationalFl It W I IHMIH . LyleAlzado L. A. RAIDERS XV P.SAk ft ft j$> CO !Afl K»C6 YOU'VE GOTTA PROTECT YOURSELF! If I get hurt on the field, I can't make Because not protecting your- the play. So I protect myself. And that goes self when you ride, is like lining -up double for off- road riding. against me without a helmet. Out on the trail, things happen even And I don't think you'd , faster than they do on a football field. So you've want to do that, V gotta protect yourself. For more information, a Always wear a helmet, a good pair of free riding instruction booklet and boots, gloves and eye protection. Make sure the location of tlie Honda your machine is in good operating condition. dealer 'nearest you, call Never drink when ride. safety. you ThinkHONDA.800-ATC-3WHL. ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET AND EVE PROTECTION. ATC is a registered Honda trademark. © 198-1 American Honda Motor Co.. Inc. -C* BLAIR: (Pauses) I guess it's the barrier representative of agriculture. Blair that's sometimes created when the young- FUTURE FARMER: Do women have er ones find out I'm the state president. a role as policy makers? (Continuedfrom Page 20) They sometimes don't realize that I'm BLAIR: Agriculture needs people who just one of them and that all officers can stand up and speak out. It's not that started out just where thev are. a man can't do it or that a woman is tional president) came over and asked FUTURE FARMER: Do you think better at it than a man. But when women your being the first female president will speak out for agriculture, it opens doors what topic I wanted, and we prayed for open doors for other hopeful girls? for a whole new group of people as far as the longest time. But it's not luck. God now had something planned for me. BLAIR: Regardless of whether it's male communicating between the consumer FUTURE FARMER: Why did you get or female, I hope the members will .keep and the producer. involved in extemporaneous speaking in in mind to elect the one who will do the FUTURE FARMER: How will FFA best and the one is most qualified. benefit you, say, five years from now? the first place? job who FARMER: How do people BLAIR: The experiences I've gained in BEAIR: My sophomore year, I got FUTURE they find out you're the time management and in organizing. invoked through my advisor. My first react when when Being a state officer has provided me contest, I was a nervous wreck. 1 didn't "/ with the challenges of turning into an make time and all my cards fell off the BLAIR: hope the image (of adult. The additional responsibilities this podium onto the floor. FFA) changes. ..to more of an FUTURE FARMER: When you were a year have definitely helped me grow up organization that develops Greenhand, did you ever dream you and mature. I think I have my eyes more in the right direction now. As strange as would be the first female state president leadership in young people and of Oklahoma? it sounds. I'm no longer real worried not so much just oVfarm kids. about impressing everyone. 1 just serve BEAIR: 1 thought another one would be That's the image to a lot the people in the way that I think is right. elected before my time. And back then, I of FUTURE FARMER: Which would you didn't realize how difficult it was to get people now. That image is say you've enjoyed more, giving speeches elected. I didn't think it was that big of an improving nationally, but it still or production agriculture? issue. By my senior year, I started realizing BLAIR: I'm not really sure. Writing a how serious of a commitment it was and needs a lot of work in local " speech was one of the hardest things for that it wasn't just a job title. communities. FUTURE FARMER: What do you me to do. I enjoyed practicing and preparing, studying for questions. enjoy most about being state president'.' state president of the Future Farmers of and production, tranquil- BEAIR: Probably the one-on-one indi- America? And in there's that ity, knowing those animals depend on vidual encouragement I'm able to give to BLAIR: (Laughs) I get a lot of mixed me. FFA members. I love urging them to set reactions. I ran across one man who said FUTURE FARMER: Do you think goals; and to believe in themselves. I couldn't be state president of the Future will ever Greenhands are such an inspiration, just Farmers of America because girls aren't speeches and leadership domi- nate the FFA? to watch them grow and mature. I just allowed to be in it. I'll bet we argued for I don't know that speeches will like being around other FFA members. five minutes. But people normally en- BLAIR: FUTURE FARMER: What has been courage me to support agriculture and ever reach the same level as the production I (of the most difficult part of being state the programs young people represent. aspect. hope the image FFA) changes, though, in the eyes of adults, president? Thev think it's okav to have a female the community, and legislators, to more of an organization that develops leader- ship in young people and not so much just of farm kids. That's the image to a lot of people now. That image is improv- ing nationally, but it still needs a lot of work in local communities. FUTURE FARMER: Why do you enjoy working with high school students so much'.' BLAIR: A lot of people took the time to help me as a youngster. When I was a sophomore. 1 had a big inferiority com- plex. It seemed that most of the people who worked with me were associated >*- They all helped me grow out of that. 1 enjov doing the same for other people. FUTURE FARMER: What would you say is the one thing that makes a person a success? BLAIR: I heir decision to be successful. Success is measured in so many different ways. Success to me is your desire to be just that. It's not what you attain, but the effort sou put into being what you consider a success and reaching the things you want. Just believe in yourself. Never look at someone else and feel like you can't Preparing for the Oklahoma State FFA convention: getting experience in time attain that position or level. Never feel a ••• management, organizing. goal is too high to reach. 7he SaiionalU II RE FARMER PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP Man Of Many Faces Tony Edmond is a hard man to pin down. As soon as you think you've got him figured out, he changes. Put him in front of a crowded room or auditorium full of FFA members and he'll have 'em hanging on every word, mesmerized. At home or with friends, it's a different story. His lightning-quick smile and wit sometimes make it difficult to tell when he's serious. Right, Tony gives his Fact is. the only thing really consistent winning speech at about is his love for and his Tony FFA the 1983 National dedication to agriculture. Convention. Below, "1 really didn't know much about checking soybean FFA when I first joined," says the 18- seeding on his fam- year-old from a small farm near Dublin. ily's farm near Dub- Georgia. Hailing from a big family, the lin. Georgia. opportunities didn't come easy for Tony. He wanted more and he found it in the FFA members and was expected to give FFA, establishing himself as a chapter an extemporaneous speech. "I couldn't and state leader. In 1983 he served as see my notes or my stopwatch. That Georgia state president and won the worried me." Tony says. But he fought national extemporaneous public speaking off feelings of panic and let hisconfidence title. He earned his Georgia Planter guide him. "I set them down on the (State Farmer) Degree by working in lectern and walked away. I took the turf and landscape management, agri- microphone and never once looked at business and vegetable production. His my notes or the watch." family farms row crops and manages That confidence and experience paid timberland, but Tony's interests have off for Tony that day. Both speech and always gravitated toward public speaking timing was flawless. ( He came within five and leadership. seconds of going over time.) "I started out in prepared speaking my "I knew I could win national if I ever first year, but by the next year I decided got out of the southern region." he says, to change to extemp," he says. "At first I looking back. "I concentrated on speech was really worried about it. But I learned throughout my years in FFA. That was that you have to go to an extemp contest my specialty." knowing you are really prepared." Tony's winning subject that day was Strategically. Tony says being the first export marketing, but he often builds speaker in a contest is always best. "I like speeches around his favorite topic: agri- to be first 'cause I set can a standard that cultural leadership. "Leadership is one of the other speakers have to live up to." he the fundamentals." he says. "I just build says. on what I had been taught in FFA. I can talk for a long time on leadership." College with plans to transter to the No notes Tony put his speaking ability to good University of Georgia to study agriculture Tony wasn't the first speaker when he use as Georgia state president last year. education. He is just as excited about competed in the national contest. In fact, "I had banquets sometimes every night being in\ olved in FFA as a vo-ag teacher things didn't go his way at all. "We all for five nights a week." he says. It was a as he was as a member. "FFA sets itself prepared in another building," he recalls. lot of work, but he thinks traveling and apart from all other youth organizations," "I had my notes all ready, and we walked meeting people all over the state is worth he says. "It gives hands-on experience, outside in the bright sunlight to get to the it. He wondered at first if he could handle leadership training and opportunities to auditorium. Once inside it was difficult the stress ("all-night drives"), the paper- meet people. Most organizations can't to see because my eyes weren't adjusted. work, or his ability to meet many people do that. It helped me to become a better When my eyes finally got used to the at one time. "This was something I'd public speaker. darkness 1 went on stage and was practic- always wanted to do. I just figured I had "And besides." Ton) grins, mustering ally blinded by the spotlights." to believe in myself," Tony says. his best Georgia drawl. "Is southern At that moment he was facing 20,000 Tonvcurrentlv attends Middle Georgia boys just know how to speak." ••• April-May, 1985 23 M. *^ff~ '.-.jWlSi*11 im * J THE ETERNAL COMBUSTION When you put Briggs & Stratton l/C" (Industrial/ adjusting since it has no moving parts. It's corrosion Commercial) engines to work, you won't have to resistant. And it delivers a far more powerful charge worry about giving them an early retirement. than capacitor discharge systems. Because we've put a little extra into almost every TOUGH, RIGHT DOWN TO THE FINISH. part that goes into them. Inside and out, they're made Our dual-element air cleaner actually filters air to survive the dirty, dusty, punishing work a work twice to insure that only the cleanest air gets through to engine's got to survive. the carburetor. INNER STRENGTHS We've got an aluminized Lo-Tone muffler that out- Every Briggs & Stratton l/C comes with a cast lasts and outquiets just about any other on the market. iron bore tor added wear and cylin- We even see to it that these en- der lite. gines look good down the road. They've got Cobalite valves and With a tough, high-quality finish seats for better wear and heat resis- preceded by a special chemical clean- tance. Plus valve rotators to help ing and treating process. break up carbon deposits. In short, Briggs & Stratton l/C They come with heavy-duty engines can take it. For a long, long DU and ball bearings. Mounted on time. To find out all the reasons why, both ends of the crankshaft to keep just call your Briggs & Stratton stress to an absolute minimum. representative. You'll be eternally Plus our time-proven Magnetron" grateful. Available from 127 cc (3 hp) electronic ignition. It never needs to694cc(18hp). BRIGGS & STRATTON The power in power equipment. ^VVV* Brunswick Comes Back This up-and-coming vo-ag department typifies how vocational agriculture and FFA can provide needed training and opportunities in a community By Michael Wilson We hear stories of vo-ag programs in student at the time of Arrington's arrival. programs. trouble: those on the edge of elimi- Although he hailed from a farm, Kevin "That's what keeps me involved." says nation, or threatened by cutbacks. It's a had decided against taking vo-ag at Cheryl Rumer, 1984 state proficiency serious problem for vocational agricul- Brunswick. "It seemed like vo-ag was winner in floriculture. "Ms. Arrington is ture. rock bottom. I figured it was a waste of not like other teachers. We are able to Fortunately, not all vo-ag departments time," he recalls. Kevin's parents, Jane learn what we're interested in. We don't are going out of business. In fact, some and Charlie Smith, convinced him to have to follow some book." departments, like the one at Brunswick. give it a try. Kevin enjoyed it so much he Cheryl was just one of five state Maryland, are growing, meeting the went on to become a state dairy proficien- proficiency winners from Brunswick last needs of local communities and spurring cy winner. Maryland Star Farmer, the year, proof of the program's re-birth. FFA members on to team and individual chapter's first American Farmer degree achievements. It's a success story which winner and first state officer. He now needs to be told more often. heads up the Brunswick FFA alumni Brunswick is a community of 8,000, chapter. about 50 miles northwest of Washington. Charlie and Jane Smith are just as D.C. Small dairy farms dot the hills enthusiastic about the Brunswick resur- which surround the city, but there are gence. "1 think the people in the commun- fewer farmers here today than ten years ity are just now beginning to reali/e what earlier, due to urban development. the FFA has to offer here in Brunswick." In spite of that problem, the local high says Mr. Smith, a Maryland county ag school began a vo-ag program in 1 972 as commissioner. a result of a farmer survey and pressure Arrington says part of the success is from key community leaders. At best, it due to good school administrative sup- enjoyed a shaky and perilous beginning. port, plus an open-mind about course It wasn't until 1980, when instructor curriculum. "Whatever types of students Karen Arrington took over the program come through the door, we try to provide that Brunswick began to make its mark for." she says. "The key is to be sensitive among Maryland vo-ag departments. to the interests and needs of students." Two years later, instructor Doug Hering As a result, the instructors have broad- signed on. contributing production agri- ened the scope of vo-ag course work. culture courses to the horticulture classes One independent study class has 16 Ms. Arrington already taught. The pro- students, each learning something differ- Chapter officer Adrienne Shaffer feeds gram has changed dramatically since ent. While Arrington teaches most horti- one of her prize-winning dairy goats. both teachers arrived. culture-related classes, Hering concen- "The first year they were here you trates on production agriculture. He has could see things start to change," says attracted more college-bound students Meet Arnold, c Kevin Smith, a ninth grade Brunswick by offering animal science and pre-vet Bob One By John Dutcher No one ever picked fruit from a tree that wasn't planted. And no one at Brunswick FFA would enjoy the success the chapter seems to have come by if it hadn't been for a few "founding fathers," who helped set the chapter on a course for success. If the chapter is looking for the roots of their success, they might just find that some of them were planted by Bob Arnold. At 20, Bob doesn't sound old enough to be set in the annals of Brunswick FFA history. But his hard work helped spur the once fledgling chapter on toward success, his advisors say. Bob was chapter secretary in 1980 when Karen Arrington came to teach vo-ag. The chapter was in debt and Karen Arrington, left, visits Sherri Haupt, one of five Brunswick state proficiency enrollment was dwindling. "She had lots winners last year. of new ideas," savs Bob. "We were sure //)<• VationafFl 77 RE FARMER Brunswick FFA members have earned themums in her back yard. By 1983 she join FFA three years ago, his response several state and American Farmer de- was producing eight times that amount was, "I'm not a farmer." grees in recent years, and an eastern and sold flowers both retail and wholesale "But then Mr. Hering explained, 'All region proficiency winner in 1983. The to nurseries and grocery stores. She also you have to be is interested in agriculture chapter consistently places high in BOAC, learned to make floral designs, and this to join FFA.' So I tried it and I've really Safety and national chapter contests. year she plans to grow 3,500 mums. She learned a lot," says Dwayne. Since he Last year the Brunswick floriculture, expects to purchase an additional 25 lived in town, Mr. Hering suggested parliamentary procedure, dairy products Dwayne start a turf and landscape and nursery judging teams captured first project. He began by mowing one lawn, place in the state. MOA TS: "What these two did then quickly grew to 15 customers and In spite of the new winning tradition, for the FFA program was responsibility for a baseball field. He competition is not a focal point, says now does landscaping for a community unheard of. You never used to Arlington. "Nobody makes a big deal if college, where he has taken horticulture a team doesn't win," she says. "But they see FFA jackets walking classes. support each other when they compete, "What these two did for the FFA through the halls. Now we can win or lose. Some people will bring two " program was unheard of," Dwayne says, or three carloads of people to each event, be proud of our chapter. echoing the feelings of many Brunswick just to support each other." residents. "You never used to see FFA What is stressed is turning students' acres near her home for expansion. jackets walking through the halls. Now interests into careers. Sherri Haupt. 1984 The program's flexibility is appreciated we're giving demonstrations to the other state winner in nursery operations, began most by non-farm students. Dwayne school groups. Now we can be proud of ••• her FFA project by growing 1 00 chrysan- Moats, 19, savs when he was asked to our chapter." Cheryl Rumer has gained experience Doug Hering, right, talks with FFA er Bill Allen, one Brunswick graduate who re- and skills in floral design. turned to the farm. Brunswick's "Founding Fathers" willing to try them." knows." says Hering. As a chapter officer. Bob did all he Bob's hard work at Brunswick has not could to smooth over Arrington's transi- been without recognition. In addition to tion as teacher and advisor. "He was my Star Greenhand and Chapter Farmer right-hand man," Arrington says. "He awards. Bob served as chapter president invented and constructed whatever we and won stacks of plaques for his many needed." That year Bob renovated the talents and achievements. The highlight greenhouse and built a cold frame for the of Bob's FFA career came last November chapter's horticultural money-making pro- when he received his American Farmer jects. He even surveyed and helped plant degree. an orchard for the chapter. "The FFA has pushed me to go "I was willing to help whenever I further and learn more about agriculture." could," says Bob. In addition to the says Bob. On the other hand. Bob has construction he did for the chapter. Bob pushed his FFA chapter on toward also took full advantage of the vo-ag success, too. For Bob and Brunswick department's shop to repair tractors and FFA, success has been a two-way street. implements from his farm. With a short- Together they have put down good age of production agriculture students at roots. the time, advisor Doug Hering was glad Years from now. someone may walk to see Bob's equipment in the shop. He behind Brunswick High School and won- was also pleased that Bob let other Bob says, "I was willing to help whenever der who planted the lovely orchard. students help him. "Bob has always been I could." Most people will have forgotten. But one that's elad to share whatever he Bob knows. ••• ipril-May, 1985 0_ FFA ONLINE Kevin Gingerich, FFA's top Computers In Agriculture winner. Agricultural Computer Winners... Develop New Tools For More Profitable Farming These FFA computer wizards rely on imagination and agricultural know-how to help farm and agribusiness needs By cara Doyie Mnin three entrepreneurs: Kevin business and farm needs. Computers In Agriculture Contest last Gingerich, Debru Haackand Dotty Considering the difficult economic year. "A computer can cut the time it Behne. These young leaders have turned problems facing most farmers, finding takes to run 'what if options and compar- their dreams into reality using a new ways to make more profit on the farm by isons," he says. It's a "tool for manage- farm management tool called the farm using computer technology is a big farm ment, not tasks. Agriculture is a business. computer. I hey are part of a growing need. And just likea computer can benefit any legion of FFA members who use imagi- "Time is money in farming." says other business, it can benefit agriculture," nation and agricultural know-how to Kevin Gingerich, 14. ot Kokomo. Indi- Kevin believes. develop new computer software for agri- ana. Kevin placed first in the FFA's new Debra Haack, 20, of Fond du Lac, Dotty Behne, below, helps a neighboring farmer set up an Debra Haack, below, and her mother Dolores, update one of income statement. the sire selection programs. 2S The Suiitmull-I II HI FARMER Wisconsin, says, "It can mean big time The program was so successful, she is savings if someone is willing to take the copyrighting her software and planning time to maintain the records." Debra to market it. placed second in the contest. "In the long Debra studied at l.akeshore Technical run, using the computer as a too! saves Institute for dairy herd management, money, with better feeding and other and now works part-time on her home management practices made possible by dairy farm. She plans to continue to comparing figures." develop and market programs and eventu- Third-place winner Dotty Behne, of ally work with a computer company- Sherburn, Minnesota, agrees with her possibly by continuously updating pro- fellow winners. "In the long run, you can grams she has created. use the computer to save time and also "h takes incentive to learn more than help farmers understand the benefits of just what's given at school," Debra says good records. It's necessary for us to regarding success in using computers. learn how to use computers they'll be Farm Financial Management around for a long time." Dotty Behn stresses "patience" and 'he Computerized Grain Marketing "desire to learn" as keys for computer Kevin Gingerich surveyed grain mar- success. She used the computer to set up keting outlets and then used the data to financial management programs for area compute the highest possible net income. farmers and businessmen. The programs He used the information to write a included cash flows, income statements, Above, Dotty and her father Nathan work computer program that helps area farmers net worth statements, income and expense together to put the family's trucking busi- make better marketing decisions and ledgers, crop and livestock decision aids ness records on a computer. Below, more profit. and futures market helpers. Debra checks her select sire summary "I was amazet' to learn that there's a "My major goal is to make financial book. vast difference in net returns when selling planning and decision-making clearer grain to different dealers," Kevin says. and easier for the farmer," she says. "It "For example. I recently had the computer doesn't save time when you enter the evaluate the sale of corn to ten different data, but the computer will file reports grain dealers and found a difference in for sou and save time from paging net return of over SI 10 on a 400-bushel through all the record books later. There's load." also less chance for error. Kevin also used his computer skills to "I just want to help the farmer find the find crop costs, cash flow, financial best program for his individual financial analysis and livestock budgets. He worked situation," she adds. Dotty plans to with the chapter reporter on word pro- continue working with area farmers, cessing. The chapter can now write news demonstrating software and evaluating releases on the computer to publicize its strengths and weaknesses for their their chapter's activities and also maintain farm operations. She'll also demonstrate an address file. "The computer is also a her skills at the Minnesota FFA Conven- help to keep financial records of my tion in April. Supervised Occupational Experience "It doesn't take any special computer (SOE) program," he says. skill to be successful," says Dotty. "You Now studying at Ball State University just have to enjoy it, want to learn, and in Muncie, Indiana. Kevin plans to not give up easily." ••• remain involved in the development of agricultural software especially pro- Below, Dotty encourages students to learn how computers can help them in ag grams that will help increase a farmer's careers. bottom line profit. Dairy Sire Selection Debra Haack is just as ambitious in learningabout computers. She developed a variety of software programs to increase the profitability of her family's dairv farm. After buying a computer in 1982, she designed software programs for breed- ing, reproduction, vaccination and identi- fication records. "A comprehensive dairy sire selection program has been my biggest accomplish- ment," she says. "It's set up on a linear trait evaluation scale developed bv the Holstein Association. Top 'Predicted Difference dollar' ( PDS) bulls are entered in large files. The operator enters the three major weaknesses of a cow and the computer does the rest. The program chooses the top bulls which wouk' be most suitable mating to the cow to improve on one, two or all three of her major weaknesses." April-May. /<>.V5 KKS CKllW, extra sharp, $7,500 (219) 8*2-2151 Farm Machinery Wanted Cash lor Died Farm and Induttrlal machinery. All types. Please Indicate price. Also need wrecked and Sizing Up burned equipment for our salvage operation. Fred Smith, Box 117. Carllnvllle, IL 62626. Phone (217) 154- 3274. Combines and tractors burnt or wrecked for salvage yard. Small tractors In running condition. Wayne's Machinery Used Parts, El Paso, Illinois. Ph. (309) 527-3125. Used - Wanted to Buy Combines and headers. "The Combine Man '(219)862-2151. Choosing the right equipment for your farm is an important management task you'll want to Farm 174230. 4240, 4440. 4630, 4640, 4(40. Corn s 6-4 rows. Davis Imp. investigate carefully. Here are some tips Mottoon (217)234-2401 e Farm Machinery ctors". 60-different makes Block and White pho- As more farmers go out of business, Han ester models are sometimes difficult you're willing to change brands of equip- more used machinery becomes avail- to find parts for." he says, "but it all ment. able to beginning producers. This ma- depends on your local dealer." In general, "If a guy has been reared on a farm chinery is often in good working order, equipment that has been well cared for and his dad used John Deere tractors all and usually can be bought for several or stored under cover will be a better his life, he probably w ants a John Deere." thousand dollars less than new. The trick value and demand a better price. says David. "But you can get the same is making sure you get the right equipment . Check the sound of the engine. If you amount of horsepower and quality for for your needs. see unusual amounts of smoke or blow- less money with another brand, because "1 would say it's wise for someone just by. the tractor may need a major overhaul. the resale value on John Deere equipment getting started to buy used equipment If the engine looks and sounds consider- is higher than most." instead of new, because of price," says ably younger than the tractor, it may If you are just starting in farming, David Wenger. one of four brothers who already have been overhauled. This can check which dealers in the area will own and operate Wenger's Farm Ma- boost the amount of useful service left in provide the best parts and service. You chinery. Inc., in Myerstown. Pennsyl- the machine. may prefer an Allis Chalmers tractor, vania. "The thing about busing a new but if a dealer is not located nearby, piece of equipment, even with financing, Checkpoints. On all equipment check check another brand. bearings, hoses, sprockets, belts and is that once you drive it off the lot it You should also evaluate just how augers. the teeth on hay rakes and depreciates considerably. A used piece Check much equipment you need on your the knotter on balers. If plan to won't depreciate as much." you buy operation, taking into consideration leas- plow, check David and brothers Lloyd. Larry and a moldboard to see that the ing or sharing options. Jot down your frogs and moldboards are not too thin. Glenn Wenger are as familiar w ith FFA horsepower needs and price range. Make to determine if parts are as they are the family-owned equipment Try worn notes on different purchase options, and because of average use or because of business. Three of the brothers earned keep them in mind at machinery auctions. neglect. the title of Star Agribusinessman from Be sure to check equipment over thorough- "A lot of times you can match tire the eastern region as FFA members. lv before making a bid. ••• wear to the hour meter on tractors," says Just because used equipment is cheaper David. "On a tractor with 1.500 hours F A B« doesn't it make a better buy. Figuring //ylPlf*! EA/T5 you would expect tires to be poor. At what you can afford takes careful judg- 5*". is 4 senvice ment, and equipment markets and prices 2.000 hours, the tractor should more likely have tires." are different in different parts of the new country, he cautions. Here are a few Check a tractor's oil and oil filter. general guidelines: Take a tractor through its gears, checking for brake resistance and free pedal in the Appearance. o\erall "The appearance clutch. of a piece of equipment will tell me a lot of what 1 need to know." he says. Check Value. Used equipment supply may be for signs of good maintenance in the cab. up. but it's localized. David says. "Farm- tires and engine. Check tractors to see if ers who are in economically sound areas PTO and three-point hitch systems work, of the country expect bargains, but it and look for oil leaks. stands to reason that the supply remains "If I see a clean tractor, even if it's 15 to normal in good economic areas." he 20 years old, 1 figure it's probably been says. taken care of," he adds. According to As you compare, look for value. You David, the number of hours on a tractor may run across a cheaper price tag, but it "According to the company, the pari you is important, but it's only critical if you doesn't necessarily translate into a better need will be here about the time your " can't find parts. "A few older International buy. You can often get a better price if son starts farming. .Mi the SalionalFl H RE FARMER GET TWO EDUCATIONS FROMONE COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP. An education in your chosen major. Our scholarships cover full tuition And an education in becoming an Army and required fees. They also provide an officer. You get both with an Army RCTC amount for books, supplies and equipment, scholarship. as well as an allowance of up to $1,000 Army ROTC is the college program each school year they're in effect. that trains you to become an officer, a So if you think all scholarships just leader and a manager. provide you with a college degree, look into You take ROTC along with your other an Army ROTC scholarship. You'll be in studies, and graduate with both a degree for quite an education. and a secondlieutenant's commission. For more information, write: Army Best of all, you can put both of your ROTC, Dept. KI, P.O. Box 9000, Clifton, educations to work right away. In today's N.J. 07015. modern high-tech Army, we need engineers, communications experts, computer spe- ARMY ROTC. cialists, and other professionals. BEALLYOUCANBE. <7 >**<*? ^ rii";-- . tyggg* ONLY THE FINEST LEATHERS ARE HANDCRAFTED INTO THE WORLD'S MOST FAMOUS BRAND. BQXDEB Style shown #31000 with Neige Genuine Lizard Vamp. f ASK FOR NOCONA BOOTS WHERE QUALITY WESTERN BOOTS ARE SOLD. NOCONA BOOT COMPANY/BOX 599/NOCONA, TEXAS 76255/817-825-3321 5 noco™ Boot Cam 1985 The New Case International By Wilson Carnes major change in American agricul- A ture was unveiled in l.as Vegas in late February. .1 1 Casejcalled together its new dealer organization for a look at the new product line and to explain how the company will operate with the acquisition of International Harvester farm equip- ment operations by Tenneco, Inc.. the parent company for both groups. Using the theme "We Are One." offi- cials made it clear Case and I H are now one company. Tractors and equipment in the future will carry both the Case and IH logo which officials said retains the best of both traditions. Dealer signs will also feature the combined trademarks. The name of the overall companv remains J I Case. Former IH dealers appeared pleased when the new colors and graphics for the Case International product line were un- veiled. Dealers first saw a Case Model 2096 tractor featuring a major IH hall- mark the characteristic IH red along The Case International Model 2096 comes in the characteristic IH red. with the traditional Case black stripe. now with silver accents. ecutive Officer Jerome K. Green said. organization combines the strength of When the merger is complete. Case "Our industry expects more mergers of Case's tractor technology with the re- International will have a network of the kind we are going through." He spected IH dealer network and line of about 2.200 dealers. noted that the new Case International agricultural equipment. ••• The IH dealer organization is consid- ered to be one of the greatest assets of the acquisition, according to James K. Ketel- sen. chairman of the board for Tenneco. "You can't build another like it today." The he said. World Of The [:ii:in Quarter All dealers will offer a full line of tractors, combines and farm implements Horse ... bearing the Case International nameplate. Quarter Horse Dealers will carry two- and four-wheel The American drive agriculture tractors up to 400 gross offers excitement and many engine horsepower. Over 95-hp units are rewards for the horsemen of of the Case design, and feature the Case today. All kinds of opportuni- Intelligent Center, a comprehensive elec- ties await the Quarter Horse tronic monitoring system. Under 95-hp owner, from awards won in models include both Case and I H designs. competition to the thrill of The new Case diesel engines, recently owning a race horse. Or even introduced in the Case 96 series tractors, the special rewards of a will gradually be phased into all of the Award Program company's agricultural equipment. breeder with a healthy new National FFA Horse Proficiency Crop harvesting and production equip- foal. ment will include the Early Riser Cyclo Worlds Mosr Versatile Horse It's fun, and it's exciting. And The (R) Air Planters and Axial-Flow "(R) you can be a part of it! combines. Effective March 1 through May 31. To learn more about the Amer- 1985. several '^AQHA financing options and re- ican Quarter Horse and the American Quarter Horse Association bates will be available through Case. opportunities awaiting you, In his first address to the new dealer Dept. FFA write: 2701 1-40 East network. Case President and Chief Ex- Box 200, Amarillo, Texas 79168 April-May. 1985 >"^"B News,.NOies, ^--^ anaand Nonsense fromrr Everywhere Chapter Scoop by Jack Pitzer Cottonwood, AL, Chapter's county The Aberdeen, ID. Chapter partic- Ranee Bailey won the Wirt County, fair exhibit showed the diversity of the pated in National Care and Sharing WV, big buck competition with a 9- vo-ag program forestry, fish and w ild- Day by giving a free soft drink to any point he turned in. life, ag mechanics, ag products, horticul- high school student who brought canned N-N-N ture and soil management. goods to school. The foodstuffs were Top selling items at the auction after N-N-N given to the local ministerial association the FFA pig roast in Galena, IL. was State Highway Patrolman Sam Hill for distribution. two straws of semen which sold for $90. spoke to the Southeast, OH, Chapter N-N-N Other auction items donated by local about tractor and motor vehicle safety Blairs, VA. Chapter also collected supporters included a Cabbage Patch on highways. canned food — 1.330 cans— for their car- kid. N-N-N ing project and gave it to the Salvation N-N-N Army for holiday distribution. Many high school faculty members N-N-N are pressed into service this time of year And Pilot Mountain, NC, took in 2 10 to judge or time speaking contests in cans of food in their project. order to pick local winners. Wallowa, N-N-N OR, remembered to recognize them. Many other chapters sent news about Did your chapter? collecting food for the needy in their N-N-N community or doing some other service, Members of the Lowes County, KY, it but didn't say was part of National Chapter distributed 1 25 fruit baskets to Care and Sharing Day. Like Churchill elderly in their community. Total re- Coumr, NV. and Westwood, AZ. in sponsibility for the list and distribution Three ideas from Fairfield, I A, Chap- Mesa. was given to the members. ter to make meetings more fun. Game N-N-N N-N-N idea for barn warming dance was a race Shane Garrity, Steve Kuehn, Jim King and Queen of the Jackson. MN, to see who could drink a soft drink Campbell, Rick Hartmann and Neal High School winterfest were FFA mem- fastest with a lamb nipple on the bottle. Schoening were on the winning team in bers Troy Johnson and Meg Benda. For a program feature they had the the DeWitt, I A. pest hunt. They won J hey were also members of the state president give a slide report on his week SI 5 and all the pizza and pop they could winning livestock team and competed at at Washington Leadership Conference. consume at the pizza party. Wonder the national contest. And after the family watermelon bust in how much that cost the chapter'.' r\ N-N-N _^" .-. September, the FFA also has melon for N-N-N the varsity football players. Ronnie Cook won the Sharon. TN, N-N-N Creed contest. Judges were Brian Ray, Penta County, OH. members sold chapter president. Bobby Morgan, vice Christmas gift bows to raise money to president. Mark Barner, secretary, and feed a needy family for the holiday. The Teddy Barthlomew, advisor. FFA also sent poinsettias to local shut- vv\ ins. i In the all-school judging contest t ,S N-N-N sponsored by Verdigree, NE. Superin- Beside the money local business firms tendent Robert Jacobs won the teacher donated for the Waltonville, IF, ag Seems the proofreader in the local division trophy. department's new steam cleaner, the newspaper for Gaithersburg, MD, was N-N-N FFA members sold corn chips with not a horticulturist. The announcement cheese at ball games to raise money. *J8? of the chapter's Christmas tree sale - N-N-N mSttk announced "bald" and cut trees available. In NV, the Churchill County Chapter distributed food to folks in the commun- N-N-N ity for Christmas. The Devil's Tower. WY, FFA held a N-N-N bike-a-thon and raised S675. Clarkson, NE, distributed phone N-N-N books in their community. And Schuyler, FFA Chapter in Marissa. IL, were N'E. is delivering Meals on Wheels in the given permission to paint their town's area. fire hydrants blue and gold. N-N-N N-N-N Arlee. Flathead. Missoula. Poison Mansfield, IX. Chapter has installed Christmas holiday season for Housa- and Stevensville, MT. traveled to nation- the Chapter Resource System available tonic 1 alley, FFA. in Falls Village. CT. al convention on one bus. When it broke from the National FFA. means wreath and tree business. In '84 down for four hours in Deer Lodge. N-N-N they earned S6.800 with their project. everyone enjoyed country music from Money raised from sponsoring an N-N-N the Flathead Chapter members. invitational wrestling tournament will "Blue and Gold Journal" is the new N-N-N be used by Lisbon. ND, FFA to buy a monthlv newsletter for the Glencoe. First big activity of the year for the computer disk for the proficiency awards OK. FFA. Silver City. NM. Chapter is splitting from the Supply Sen ice. N-N-N wood for local residents. vv\ Don't let up now reporters and officers. N-N-N Lemmon, SI). Chapter hosted a hy- Keep the news coming about good Windsor. MO. members joined with draulic workshop in January lor mem- meeting ideas, honors received by the other clubs and played in the DECA bers. Instructor was Tim Kvale, an FFA chapter, unique service or recreational muscular distrophy volleyball marathon. Alumni member. activities. The \alionalFl II HI I IAM//K Her greatest victory waits at the end ofthe mostdangerous moment ofher life. Sylwstek ":* COLUMBIA PICTURES Presents A RASTAR Production "SYLVESTER" RICHARD FARNSWORTH MELISSA GILBERT MICHAEL SCHOEFFLING mmc SLEE HOLDRIDGE ""S CAROL SOBIESKI % MARTIN JUROWfl CQ5 PGJllimil (UIDMCI SUffiiSJID - i TIM HUNTER COMING THIS SPRING TO A THEATRE NEAR YOU. JOBS: How To Get One Whether you are looking for summer employment or a full-time position, these two weapons will help you land the work you want By Bernice L. Howell those requirements. Provide specifics. The Resume In stating your accomplishments, do not start with the word "I." Instead begin with such verbs as: "Designed..." "Man- aged..." "Developed..." "Trained..." "Was promoted..." sharp, effective resume may make the difference between Students who spend their lives on the family farm sometimes your being accepted or rejected for a job. A feel list they have no marketable job experience to on a resume is a summary of your educational, professional A resume. They have a wealth of experience many would envy. and personal qualifications. It is not necessarily a ticket to a Start thinking about this category by itemizing your responsi- job; however, you may not even be considered for some jobs bilities, skills and accomplishments that you have accumulated without one. Even worse, you may lose your chances with a from the farm. Also include all volunteer experience on resume that is poorly done. Creating a resume thinking neighboring farms. Think about projects you have worked on about it. organizing it. and perfecting it is part of marketing which can help to show the extent of your responsibility, yourself a job. for dependability or experience. Think About It Hobbies and Interests and/or Honors and Awards. These Before you write a resume, sit down and think about these categories provide valuable insights to an employer. They questions: What kind ofjob do I want? Why have 1 chosen this show how well-rounded you are. Winning awards shows type of position'.' Where do 1 want to work? What kind of initiative and desire to excel. employee are they looking for? What qualifications do 1 have? If your objective is to become a farm manager and your Why should they hire me? hobby has been an FFA project in herd improvement, saying Write out your answers to these questions so you can so may show that your career choice is not a fly-by-night idea. examine your thinking and make it crystal clear. Also, interviewers frequently key in on some interest of yours Next Step: Organize as an "ice breaker" to get the interview rolling. Now you can begin to create your resume. The following That sums up the most important parts of a resume. The are categories to include: following tip sheet will help fill in any gaps: Heading. Place your name, address and phone number in Do keep your resume to just one page. If it's too long, it may an eye-catching format at the top of the page. not get read. Job (or Career) Objective. State your objective clearly, Don't include references on your resume unless you need to capitalizing on your strengths. Writing a resume without a fill space or feel you have a particular advantage in listing them. clear objective is like getting all dressed up and having no place to go. Otherwise, have at least three references available who can for character, academic performance work If you are answering an ad or have access to a job vouch your and description, you may want vour objective to zero in on a record. include personal details such as height, weight, specific job. If you are aiming at employment with a particular Don't company or a particular career area, you may want to state health, etc. If you need to fill space, put them at the end. your objective broadly enough to not limit yourself to just one Do write a letter to accompany your resume. This cover job. Samples: letter introduces you and shows that you understand what the To contribute my analytical, communication and organi- job entails. Remember, what you want from this letter and zational skills in the finance and accounting aspects of resume is an interview. Be sure to request one in your final agribusiness. paragraph. Provide a phone number. A position as farm manager where reliability and Do write your resume on crisp, good quality bond paper. excellence in quality of performance are valued. Include one-inch margins on all sides, and your categories clearly spaces, Kducation. [f you're spending time, money and effort to get should be marked by underlining, or bold If are not a typist, consider having a a degree in a particular field, your education is probably your headings. you good professional typist do your final draft for you. most important category. Put it first. List all training, technical as well as college. Start with the present, including Don't allow any errors in punctuation or spelling. Proofread ••• name and location of the school, dates attended, and the type vour resume several times. of degree you received. A good selling point is to identify particular courses that relate specifically to your objective. If you have an A or B average, say so. If you worked part time to finance your The Job Interview education and still maintained good grades, include that too. It shows initiative. Musi companies use the interview as a selection tool in Work F.xperienee. Every job you've had should have taught hiring job candidates. Interestingly, however, the person you something you can apply to the next job. (Yes, even your hired is not always the best candidate but the one who knew fast-food job!) Your challenge is to relate past experience to the most about how to get hired. the job you are now seeking. Before The Interview. The key to a successful interview is Start with the most recent work experience, state the preparation. You must know yourself and know what you company, employer and the dates you worked there. Stress want. Don't assume you can answer any questions on these what you accomplished, not just your job title. Think about two aspects without doing some homework. One way to what the employer wants and mesh your qualifications with prepare is to "role plav" an interview. Have a friend ask you I he XationalFl 11 RE FARMER . . questions like those following, and practice until you can answer convincingly: 1. Why have you chosen this line of work? 2. Tell me about yourself. 3. Why are you interested in joining jur company? 4. What have you learned from some of the jobs vou have A had? 5. What qualifications do you have that make you feel fruitful you'll be successful here? 6. What is your major strength'.' Weakness? 7. Do you feel you received a good education? 8. What courses did you like best? Least? Why? fund-raiser. 9. What have you done that shows initiative and willingness to work'' 10. What do you know about oui company'.' You should also learn as much as you can about the company befflre the interview: its si/e, products, services, growth record, management philosophy, promotion possibil- ities, salary range and reputation. You can do this by talking to people, reading company brochures or looking for information in the library. Jot down questions to ask the interviewer. What to wear: you make a very clear statement about yourself by your manner and the way you are dressed. Be clean and well-groomed. Choose appropriate, conservative clothing. You wouldn't wear a three-piece suit to go to an interview with a farm manager out in the field. Neither should you go into a business office wearing jeans. Avoid strong perfumes. Take along pencil and paper in case you need to jot down special information. lake extra copies of your resume, and il you have samples of your work, take them also. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early so you don't have to rush. During The Interview. Though average interviews last about half an hour, much of the outcome will be decided in the first four or five minutes. Be confident and be yourself right from the start. Tell yourself some nervousness is normal, and then forget about it. You're there to convince your interviewer you are the person your resume says you are. And your is interviewer there to find out if you can meet his or her needs. 5 You're looking at it. The Sunkist orange. A fund- When you have sat down after the introduction, assume an raising idea that's healthy, and nutritious. Not to alert but comfortable position. Put away keys or anything mention fruitful. you'd be tempted to fidget with. Rest your hands comfortably You see, Sunkist is the big name agricultural co-op in your lap. Be friendly but not too familiar. 11 you'.e in citrus. And with Sunkist oranges and grapefruit enthusiastic about the job. show it. II you've done your available year-round, you can expect your fund-raiser homework, you should be able to answer most questions to be a really juicy profit-maker. briskly an important part of the art of persuasion. Maintain For the whole story on selling fresh fruit for fun and good eye contact and listen well. profit, just contact your local Sunkist supplier, or mail The person interviewing you wants to find out what you are in this .oupon. And we'll send you the whole story. It's like, what you've done and what you can do for the company. called "Sunkist —The Sweet Seller," a big, full-color Since getting along with others is a vital part ol most jobs, this booklet that tells you everything you need to know to person will look closeiy at your personality. Employers also make your fund-raiser a very fruitful experience. look for alert, mature people who are willing to work and to You have our word on it.' help create a profit or accomplish the goals of the company. They're interested in a person who will do an honest day's work, who is able to work without supervision, and who will Sunkist Fund-Raising respect the rights and needs of others. Sunkist Growers, Inc. P.O. Box 7888 After The Interview, .lust as soon as the interview is over, Van Nuys, CA 91409 write down the iferviewer's name, any questions vou will need to answer, and any important information you need to For more information, call 1-800-421-5300 Ex. R78 remember. Don't assume you'll remember this without writing it down, especially if you've interviewed with several companies. Within a day or so no longer than a week send the Name interviewer (addressed by name) a short thank you note for the Organization interview. Doing so has three advantages for vou: it makes your name stand out (since only 10 percent write such a letter); Phone Number _ it shows you are courteous; and it gives you another opportunity to provide additional information or reinforce Address any selling points. Not all interviews lead to a job, but with each experience City you should improve your interviewing skills. 11 vou prepared well and presented your qualifications confidently and pleasant- State Zip- ly, and if both you and your interviewer learned what vou NFF wanted to know, then you have done your best. One of those Sunkisl. (Sunkist. and "You have our word on it' are registered trademarks of Sunkist interviews is going to pay off. Good luck! ••• Growers, Inc © Sunkist Growers. Inc 1985 April-May, I9H> 37 — — Star Farmers basket. Having a broad base of crops retired and sold me their farms with no improves our stability as well as allowing money down and payments low enough (Continued from Page 15) us to make the most efficient use of our for me to handle even at my age. equipment and land. A farming education During my junior year I went to the two major highlights of my vo-agand is an ongoing experience in which you Farmers Home Administration (FmH A) FFA career. can never stop learning. to see if they could help me get started in Farming: What's Needed For myself, success has been a cooper- the dairy business. I was only 17 years You need tremendous amounts of effort. 1 ative A lot of what have accom- old, so the first thing I had to do was determination and to extremely work plished is the result of the efforts of petition the courts to have my status as a hard at your chosen field in agriculture. several people, including my father and minor removed, to borrow money before But that's only the beginning. mother, my brother Dean and my ag age 18. I had to have a lawyer draw up You also need to maintain cash flow at teachers the over years. the papers. My parents and I went before all times through skilled management The FFA has been vital in helping me the Chancellor in our county and he had decisions, while using overall investments gain the skills needed to succeed. It has to rule on the matter. With this ac- to increase overall efficiency. I have also helped teach me the value of organization complished, I was off and running. learned the value of quality over quantity. and perseverance. A person needs a goal I built a double four herringbone dairy Over the years 1 have iound that and then a plan to reach that goal. set-up with a liquid manure system. It is a taking advice from older, more seasoned Organization, records and plans help to very efficient and labor-saving operation. people can be extremely valuable - people keep me on track. I do all the work myself and enjoy every like your parents, neighbors and local Nothing worthwhile comes easily, and minute of it. I first started milking as a agribusinessmen. 1 am sure you will find this is where perseverance comes in. It high school senior in February. 1981. this advice can save losses, while you has taken over seven years to reach one getting up before five a.m. and milking helping ensure that you proper make of my goals the American Farmer Key before school and coming home right management decisions. and it was not entirely easy. You just after school to milk. I gave up playing on I have worked at hard achieving what have to stick to the task at hand. the basketball team in order to have time 1 have, and I have not been discouraged I was a late starter in FFA. As a for my dairy. by my failures. These have only inspired freshman, I was a member but not very I have learned that farming is a never- me to try harder at being the best motivated. As a sophomore. I began to ending learning experience. There is as dairyman 1 can. You too must accept learn about the competition, leadership much or more in the management of failure from time to time, keeping in and awards FFA offers. It was then that your time and finances as in the physical mind that many times in the past, failures I began to set goals and put some work that is involved. Sure, the future is have bred tremendous success in people. direction into what I was doing. uncertain for farming, but so is everything My advice to Greenhands is to set My advice to younger members is to else. We are not promised a bed of roses goals early in your career. These goals set a goal in your area of interest and to in anything we do. can be both long and short term. You are not bite off more than you can chew. Since farming has been my entire life, I the only one who knows where you want Agriculture is a hard life. It can only be knew FFA would be also. I remember your life to take you today, tomorrow, rewarding if you enjoy what you are watching as the dairy judging team from next week, next month, next year and doing. You have to want to go to work, our local chapter came to our farm to the next five years. Jot these goals down, you can't be forced by someone else to be practice. I just couldn't wait until I was in record them and review them from time successful. Start small, get some experi- high school and it would be my turn. to time. ence, enjoy some success —then grow Because of FFA, I have been able to I have set my goals by priority, and into a larger project. ••• travel across this nation and to many realistically achieved what 1 set out to do foreign countries. I was a member ot the five years ago. Your future should be A Family Dairy Tradition first place Dairy Judging Team in Kansas planned that way it will be rewarding City in 1979. My team won a 21 -day and extremely self-satisfying. If you are all-expense paid trip to Europe to com- honest, think positively and are realistic, By Steve Rogers pete in the World Dairy Judging Compe- you will have many, many rewarding Speedwell, Tennessee tition in Edinburg, Scotland. experiences. ••• Southern Region Star Farmer Winning this gold medal in Kansas City and being named Star Farmer of Diversity: Key to Farm Profits am 2 1 years old. and from Day One I the southern region have been the biggest I have been exposed to the business highlights of all that has happened to me and lifestyle of dairy farming. There was through FFA. Greenhands take heart By Mark McKay never a question in my mind as to what I I am from a small rural community and a St. Paul. Oregon would be doing upon graduation from very small school, yet I was able to get to Western Region Star Farmer high school. Kansas City as a big winner two different It has been tradition in the Rogers times. So anything is possible if you set FARMING success has long been a family to give all children a cow at a very your goals high enough. tradition in my family. Our farm has early age. I took this cow and raised Now it is time for me to move on and been owned and operated by McKays calves, bought, sold and traded until 1 make room for another Greenhand who for over 100 years, and my brother and 1 built up a good sized herd by my junior is just beginning an exciting career in the hope to continue the tradition. year in high school. FFA. In doing so I feel I cannot ade- Agriculture is one of the toughest I live on a 1,500-acre dairy farm with quately express my appreciation for all businesses to survive in today. It is my parents. My dad knew I wanted to the assistance and encouragement from becoming more competitive and is placing own some land of my own, so he gave me people who have helped me along the greater demand on available resources. an opportunity. I earned money by way. I also feel that my parents deserve a To continue to be successful, we have to raising tobacco on some of his land. special thanks. They have put 21 years be efficient producers, using both natural This, plus income from selling cattle and into this, so I feel every award and plaque and personal resources to their fullest through the generosity of good neighbors and step up the ladder is all to their potential. and a super great uncle, was enough to credit. My next step, hopefully, will be- Success also means diversification. acquire some land that joined my father's having a son and starting this whole We don't want to put all our eggs in one acreage. The neighbors and my uncle process all over again. ••• 38 The \alionul II Tl RE FIRMER THINK* SpringAND . . . with these exciting ARiff FFA sportwear items. POLO SHIRT 50% cotton and 50% polyester Lacoste knit shirt with 4-button front and FFA imprint as shown. Colors: naw. gold. Sizes: S M L XL. Item 308 (navy), 309 (gold). Polo Shirts each $11.25 JOGGING SHORTS Navy color with white trim. 50% cotton and 50% polyester with full elastic waist and notched sides for comfort. FFA initials along side stripes. Sizes: S M L XL. Item JS, Jogging Shorts each $6.50 BLUE HEATHER T-SHIRT Made of 50% polyester and 38% cotton and 12% rayon, this shirt comes as shown, with or without chapter name. Chapter name is lettered under emblem in small block letters if desired. Minimum order of 1 dozen with chapter name. Sizes: S M L XL. Item 303, Heather T-Shirt (without chapter nameleach $5.25 Item 303, Heather T-Shirt (with chapter name I each $4.85 WHITE T-SHIRT This white T-shirt is 50% polyester and 50% cotton with the standard design, full front as shown. Sizes: S M L XL. Chapter name is available on orders of 12 or more. Item 300, White T-Shirt (without chapter namel each $4.50 Item 300, White T-Shirt (with chapter namel each $4.25 PLEBE T-SHIRT Available with, {minimum order 12), or without your chapter name under the emblem, this shirt is made of 50% cotton and 50% polyester. Sizes: S M L XL Item 304, Plebe T-Shirt (without chapter namel each $5.00 Item 304, Plebe T-Shirt (with chapter name) each $4.75 ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS: Send your order to: National FFA Supply Service P.O. Box 15160 Alexandria. VA 22309 Send with your order the following: Check, money order or school purchase order, including appropriate handling charges and sales tax. SHIPPING AND HANDLING CHARGES: Item CAP-1 Item CAP-3 $15.00 or less add SI. 50 per order S15.01 to S50.00 add SI. 75 per order S50.01 to $100.00 add S2.00 per order 'FA CAPS S100.01 to $200.00 add $3.25 per order )ne size fits all, CAP-1, has blue/white nylon, solid panel front, nesh back, CAP-3, is denim. Each is $3.75 PRICES LISTED ARE VALID TO AUGUST 15, 1985 Fiction by Shirley Jones Tin; first inkling that all was not right had come at 6 p.m. As I walked through the gymnasium. 40 FFA members raced about slamming posters on the walls and throwing silver- A Night At The ware on the tables. Two tiny Greenhands struggled to heave a giant lectern onto the stage. To top it off, a Friend ly's Nursery deliveryman was depositing a FFA Banquet mountain of cacti at the door. "Here's your order of 150 spiny-toed amarylis," the driver had announced cheerfully as Our friend Alex Curtright he backed out the door. I stared, open-mouthed, at the heap of finds herself in some quivering needles. Why, I wondered, was pretty nerve-wracking situations our FFA banquet beginning to resemble at her chapter's annual outing a botanical garden'.' Wonder no longer, I thought, as the answer came strolling in the door, wearing the homecoming queen on his arm. Rob England. Chapter presi- dent. Orderer of cacti. Before we go further, I guess a bit of explanation is in order. My name is Alexandra Curtright, but most of mv 411 The \alional I I It Rt I INWK friends just call me Alex. I am vice president of the FFA chapter in my " Very " / said. school, banquet chairman and bearer of funny, many burdens, one of which is Rob "Almost as funny as your speech tonight. England. I saw his fall, I couldn't stop. Rob and I both ran for president last face but fall. He has Robert Redford teeth and "Maybe next time with strong election support from the athletic coalition, beat me by two votes. you can tap dance on the tables to the moment of his election, he decided At Hail the FFA." to adopt the "cool breeze" leadership method -show up for the pictures and let Alex do all the work. This, however, was too much. It was two hours until our banquet. Rob looked FFA Center, our plaques didn't get there "Maybe not. but I'm trying." he said bound for the Tasty Freeze and I had 1 50 on time, and our beaming award winners and turned to walk away. He hesitated spiny toes instead of Assorted Potted went home empty handed. and spoke again. Plants and long-stemmed red roses for That's not so bad, you say? Well, it "Perhaps when you're counting to- our mothers. gets worse. night's mistakes, you'll remember your "What," I said, "are these?" When the speaker, our state president, own. If you don't think you made any, let said "Oh," Rob, "the nursery was out finally rolled in, it was because she had me refresh your memory. You told Bill\ of roses so I got what they had on hand." been sent no directions and had to guess to get the speaker. Did you offer to help'.' "And why did they run out of roses?" 1 where the school was. When Billy stood fell him how to do it? And Mary Louise queried. up to introduce her, he forgot her name. and the awards. How was she supposed "So 1 ordered them a little late," said The tables were too close together and to know she had to get the order in four Rob. "You are a typical female, Alex. one of our honorary members had to weeks early unless you told her. And me. What are you griping about?" wrestle an entire row of chairs to make it I've never been an emcee before and I've "What am I griping about?" I shouted. to the stage. When he finally got there, been busy doing fifty other things. 1 We were starting to attract a crowd. I Rob welcomed him to membership with know you think you're the only one who was just getting warmed up. "You've the fifth paragraph of the creed instead does any work around here, but the rest only had eight weeks to do this one small of the honorary induction ceremony. As of us have duties, too. you know." task. If you weren't so busy combing I stood there with the officers I felt a He had me. 1 had no right to be mad at your hair, you would have had plenty of bright red glow spreading over my face them and not be mad at myself too. 1 time." and neck. What must everyone think, I realized I hadn't done everything 1 could side was cheering but I My by now, complained to myself, as I looked at the have done to make the banquet a success. realized fighting would get us nowhere. I crowd. 1 looked at Rob England and. in spite bit tongue and went to give the my We all stayed that night to clean up, a of myself, 1 smiled. Beneath the letter lectern-heavers a hand. This was unbear- subdued group of kids throwing paper jacket was a heart and somewhere beneath able. My first banquet as an officer and I into trashbags and ripping posters off the hair was a brain. was sure it would be a disaster. walls. We had done badly, and all of us "I knew it." Rob said. "You're not so knew it. Even Rob had lost his confident tough alter all." I was right. I sat at my station, and, stride. Like a huge tree that's been hit with an feeling like a piece of wilted lettuce, But while they were all moping, I was axe, a little niche was chipped away at watched all my weeks of careful planning growing more angry by the minute. the wall between us that night. Things slide down the drain. There was no reason for such a poor still weren't perfect, but it was a start. As chairman, I had decided to delegate performance. We were better than that. We both picked up a cactus and almost every task at the banquet. Nobody Everybody was just unprepared. If They walked out the door. ••• would learn anything if I did it all, I had done their jobs right, we could have reasoned. Rob would serve as emcee and had a great banquet. order the flowers. The secretary would Suddenly I heard laughter. Billy, re- (L-* invite the speaker. The treasurer would covered from his brush with amnesia, order the awards. The Greenhands would was balancing a stuffed owl on his head. set up and the sophomores would clean That was all I needed. My fury came afterwards. It had seemed so easy. pouring out. Until the banquet began, that is. At "Very funny," 1 said. "Almost as funny that point, Rob noticed he had no as your speech tonight." I saw his face welcome speech. Being a laid back type, fall, but I couldn't stop. "Maybe next he decided to wing it and ended up time vou can tap dance on the tables to saying, "We're glad you're here. Let's Hail the FFA." eat." "Aw, let up, Alex," said a voice from The speaker's seat was empty, and behind me. "He didn't do so badly." Billy, our secretary, hung around the "You!" I whipped around, "are a fine doors, wringing his hands. The ham was one to talk. 'Let's eat' indeed. And the cold and the beans were limp since the wrong ceremony. I was so embarrassed. cooks had thought the meal was to be You aren't fit to be president." served at 7:30 and dished everything up Silence fell on the gym and Rob stared 30 minutes early. straight at me. "Is that so?" he said in a Despite a last minute phone call to the strange, quiet voice. April-May, /9S5 41 FFAirAfition tion as a memorial to agriculture. The The group was accompanied by Lennie A NEW IDEA IN THE HALL museum of farming is celebrating its 25th Gamage. manager of international activ- OF FAME anniversary this year. Hundreds of chap- ities at FFA, and Glenn Luedke, director It all started last spring as an FFA ters stop there each year on their way to of advertising for Tlie National FU- project in Coldwater. Ohio. The FFA the National FFA Convention. TURE FA RMER. Chapter decided to recondition an early According to Steve Muhlenkamp. After their return, the officer team 1 900s vintage originial New Idea manure chapter president, "It seemed like a was sent on a tour of agricultural business spreader for use in local parades. monumental task to recondition the and industry in the United States. They "When we finished, it just looked too spreader. But with a little help from some left from Kansas City to visit 21 cities in nice to let sit around." says Advisor veteran New Idea spreader makers, the 10 states. Dennis Riethman. "So we decided to old machine was soon reconditioned. The officers will be accompanied by find a home for it where as many people We were surprised to see what great the Star Farmer of America Larry Niel- as possible could enjoy this slice of shape many of the parts were still in." son of South Dakota, and the Star American agricultural history. So that's The chapter put in over 400 hours and Agribusinessman of America Rex Wich- when we voted to donate the old spreader used the original metal, only replacing ert of Oklahoma. ••• to the Agricultural Hall of Fame in the wooden portions of the spread- Bonner Springs, Kansas." er. ••• A COMPLETE SENTENCE New Idea invented the first successful HELPING manure spreader in ! S99 and still manu- HORSEMEN factures them today in their Coldwater Cindy Graf, a member of the Fall facility. In addition the company makes Mountain Chapter in Langdon, New planting, self-propelled harvesting and Hampshire, was taking care of a new hay and forage equipment. horse and was kicked in the ribs. Her The reconditioned spreader is an ap- spleen was damaged and emergency propriate addition to the Hall of Fame surgery was needed that same night. where exhibits include early steam en- Since she had just begun a horse gines, plows, planters and the first farm boarding and show horse business called truck as well as earlv hand tools. Newborn Stable, the chapter went to Cindy's farm and performed a number The Brockway, Pennsylvania, Chapter of chores for her. We cleaned stalls, split advisor has a unique license plate. By firewood, groomed horses and hauled adding the letters FFA instead of the sawdust. Besides helping Cindy do chores. usual number or letter combination, the we all had a chance to work together. message is a great promotion for the ••• (Molly Button. Reporter) FFA. President Joe Gryzbek and Vice President Mike Corradi installed the plate. !£V NATIONAL OFFICER (Pete Gryzhek, Reporter) ACTION UPDATE Since their election in November, the A TREE FOR A TEACHER National Officers have already done a Keil. Wisconsin, is a rural community tor lot of traveling. of about 3.000 located 50 miles south of The vintage piece of equipment mostly Soon alter their election in the fall, Green Bay and 17 miles west of Lake needed new wooden parts before it could they each were sent to a different state Michigan. About 80 percent of all farm be displayed. tor a week-long experience with state income is from dairy herds. The land is officers, visiting chapters, making TV rolling and made up of clay soils. Sheet I he Ag Hall of Fame, located 1 5 miles speaking at school assem- west of Kansas City, was chartered in appearances, and wind erosion are prevalent, so soil blies and meeting with vo-ag profes- conservation practices are a must in 1 960 as a non-profit, educational institu- sionals. order to preserve the productivity of the Then they spent time in training at the land. Tree planting is an integral part of National FFA Center as well as preparing the total soil conservation program of themselves for the January Board ot this area. Directors' meeting. In 1948. Leonard Forester, a Kiel On February 6 they left for a two- FFA member, with the cooperation of week international travel experience in his parents and the Soil Conservation the Orient. They spent eight days in Service, installed contour strips on his Japan, three days in Hong Kong and parent's farm the first such practice for one dav in the People's Republic of the school district. China. The same year, another member. Daniel Fins tour was sponsored by Mitsui & Kuester. with help of the entire member- Company (USA), of Memphis and by ship planted 1.000 white pine seedlings Mitsui & Co.. Ltd. of Tokyo. This is the on his parents' farm. Since that humble The restored spreader was delivered to sixth year they have sponsored an inter- beginning, the FFA has been instrumental the Hall of Fame in Kansas. Left to right national tour for the FFA officers in planting over a million trees in the are members Luke Timmerman. Steve through the National FFA Foundation. area. Tree planting has been a source of Muhlenkamp and Bert Bertke; Advisor In Japan the officers visited the Future income for some of the chapter's other Riethman; New Idea marketing represen- Farmers of Japan, stayed with a Japanese programs. A charge of I cent for each tative Tom Kinzenbaw; and Hall of Fame host family and toured Mitsui facilities tree was charged in the early years. Then Director Harold Adkins. in that country. in 1975. it went up to 2 cents. -12 The \atinnall I II Rt FARMER Bantams, Chickens, Ducks, Turkeys, Guineas, Geese, Quails and Pheasants Many and most of the rare, exotic. fancy, old fashion, popular breeds every that qualified for In those early years, the money earned teacher a tree was Free informative picture catalog from tree planting was used to finance a identified. FFA officers researched the Country Hatchery, Box 747-19 Wewoka, Oklahoma 74884 pure bred calf program. This was con- tenure of all teachers going as far back as tinued until the middle 1970s when the 1858 when the first school in the district BABY DUCKS, Geese. Turkeys, price of calves got high. the was founded. They went through school too Then Chicks, Bantams, Guineas, Pheasants the monies to send records, city records and contacted senior chapter used two Beautiful Varieties delegates to the national convention. citizens. They found 24 teachers qualfied and Fun to Raise. In 1976. for the bicentennial, the mem- for a memorial tree. Color Catalog — $1 00 iRefundable) bers suggested planting a tree in honor of HEART OF MISSOURI HATCHERIES all the former teachers and administrators that retired from teaching or passed 56 PAGE COLOR PET HOBBY away while employed by the Kiel school AVIARY SUPPLY CATALOG S1.00 district. Five-foot trees were chosen from MAKE YOUR OWN TRAPSCAGES vo-ag student's farms, dug out and planted on the high school grounds. Enjoy — Makin< MAKE MONEY- Them Selling cages YOURSELl ( Every effort was made to make sure to olhe to 2500 Cage Clamps, Clincher, S17.95 Prepaid "Everything — You Name It" Chicks. Hatching Eggs, Bantams, Ducklings, Gos- lings. Turkeys, Gamebirds. Peacocks, Incubators, Poultry Pickers, Scalders Aviary Equipment Medica- tions Bands, Nests Poultry Encyclopedia, Exhibiting ' Standard— 464 Color Pic- tures $35 CO STROMBERG CHICKS & PETS UNLIMITED Pine River 37 Minn 56474 BANTAMS, EXOTIC RARE BREEDS Egg and Meat Producers, choose from over 60 breeds of chicks. Shipped direct to your local post office Safe shipments from coast -to- coast Gamebird and chicken hatch- ing eggs Medications Incubators Books Karen Eckhardt. Brian Kornetzke and Supplies Send 50c for big catalog with pic- tures in color Gerald Scharenbroch placed this com- CROW POULTRY & SUPPLY COMPANY Box 106-9. Windsor, Missouri 65360 pleted cement block at the base of one of the first 24 trees. NATIONAL OXFORD SHOW & SALE Since that beginning, the project has Ottawa. IL. June 7. 8 Best flocks in US & Canada been an on-going one. This past spring sale catalogs available the chapter recognized retiring guidance AMERICAN OXFORD SHEEP ASSN. counselor Merlyn Duerst by placing a W Warts Sec (815) 433-2946 R«4 Dept A. Ottawa. II 61350 Former advisor Kramer and Kevin Meyer tree, with its bronze plaque mounted in and Glen Karstaedt dig out one of the cement at the base, on the school grounds. The plaques include the name, years of oaks to be used for the first memorial Hatching prizewinning service, an FFA emblem and the name of cnicks ducks, turkeys, tree. ^dgwav'5 . the chapter. heasants goslings, P - LflJUd-id Much of the credit for the implementa- YEAR guineas. Free catalog. ton of the program goes to Ralph A. RIDGWAY HATCHERIES, INC. Kramer, vo-ag instructor at Kiel for over LaRue 22, OH 43332 614-499-2163 35 years. His retirement last year made him recipient SURVIVAL also a of a plaque and GUARANTEED 10 YEARS memorial tree. Benefits of the program KNIFE rP DISCOUNT SALEI For the outdoorsman A include student appreciation for teachers, knife, saw, hatchet, fish scaler and hammer Rugged 9Vz" knife. 5" blade a great community service program and a valued recognition by teachers to having LAMINATED a lasting memorial in their name at the leather handle Rich leather bell *- school. ••• sheath contains honing stone, leg ties Imported (Continued on Page 44) IFBROKEN WITHIN 10 YEARS WE WILL REPLACE FREE 1 Use 30 days if not pleased return for refund REGULARLY S14 96 NOWONLYS7.95PLUSS1 95 1 delivery Send S9 90 today MIDWEST KNIFE CO . Dept S-2136 9043 S Western Ave .Chicago, IL 60620 Mail orders only Our 48th year ANGUS CATTLE! write or telephone for free information *£S Learn how to become a breeder of registered Angus cattle. The American Angus Association Keith Klessig is placing one of the en- has booklets, slide shows, movies and literature to graved plaques in a wet cement block to help you get started. Write or telephone today. go at the base of one of the trees for a teacher. AMERICAN ANGUS ASSN. 3201 Frederick Blvd. • St. Joseph, Mo. 64501 April- May. 1985 (816) 233-3101 . Kids and Chianina, FFA in VIkm (Pick up ACTIOSfrom Page 43) The Perfect Combination BEGINNERS LUCK research, the chapter went to work on it. In the past three years, the Osceola One cold Saturday afternoon, Decem- American FFA has been responsibile for contribut- ber I, our chapter entered its first float in ing over $2,000 to the fairgrounds as well Junior Chianina the Christmas parade in Charles Town, as many hours of labor. Members have West Virginia, to Association open the Christmas built two enclosed buildings, a livestock shopping season. barn, renovated a tent, put up a sign and The theme of the parade was "Christ- National Junior Heifer Show fixed a wash rack. They also clean up the mas Dreams" and our float's title was fairgrounds before and after the fair. August 8, 9, 10, 1985 "Santa Always Dreamed of Being A held in conjunction with the 1985 Illinois Farmer." It had a snowy white foundation State Fair, Springfield, Illinois and a decorated Christmas tree. There was an antique plow and harness all 3 division show hitched up to a firewood reindeer. Over $12,000 in premiums — Two members carried an FFA flag in Over $1,000 to the Grand front of the truck which carried the Champions participating members and pulled the Over $500 to the Reserve float. It was an interesting and fun Champions experience which we all enjoyed and are Ownership deadline &11/85 proud of. (Ken Coffman, Reporter) ••• Entry deadline 7/1/85 For further information and a free copy SANTA'S FARM of the American Chianina Journal, FFA in Kingwood, Texas, invited contact: their townsfolk to tour Santa's Farm December 2 1 The new fairgrounds took shape after the > American The chapter made arrangements with chapter took on the improvement project Chianina a nearby church to use its parking lot as a for their community. ' Association hayride pick up and drop off point. The hayride took community residents down The Sac-Osage Youth Fair is open to P.O. in counties includes five Box 890 to the ag barn and facilities. On the youth two which Platte City, MO 64079 hayride, Santa Claus entertained the FFA chapters and 20 4-H Clubs. The received (816) 431-2808 children while his elves led the group in chapter three grants from the singing carols. Missouri Department of Agriculture to Once at the ag barn, everyone was use on their BOAC project. They also welcome to stop by the feed store for earned the Governor's Citation twice in TO CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS cocoa, coffee and cookies. Then parents recent years. (Donna II heeler. Secre- tary) ••• OR ORDER A SUBSCRIPTION and children could visit a living nativity scene beneath the manger constructed of Please use this form. palms. PIGS SUBSCRIBE: S2 50 per year Check ARE A LONG SHOT TO Chapter members depicted the charac- below and fill in your name and address A popular publicity project of the ters at the scene and the children could AT™CH CHECK Denison. Iowa, Chapter is their swine un jT uparsyears see and pet the lambs, pigs, calves and flND MA|L m rabbits in the 2 years The National scene. (Mindy Gardner, FUTURE FARMER Reporter) ••• un 1 upary«<" • P0 Box15l60 Foreign subscriptions add Alexandria VA DEGREES AND DESSERTS S2 a year extra lor postage. 22309 The Rainier, Oregon, Chapter had their second annual fall dessert to install Greenhand and Chapter Farmer degree recipients. a tf? After opening ceremonies, the guests in FAIR /^/fA'14// V IMPROVEMENTS E >* The Osceola. Missouri, FFA decided 44 The SalionalFl II RE FARMER . RAISE RABBITS Put a high prolan meal on your labletrom your back yafd at nominal cosi Profitable as a Business or Olympics. It is a series of obstacle races For the FFA, it is at this point that the Retirement Hobby as well as interesting tor young or old alike —GET THE FACTS— 64 page illustrated featuring pigs that have been trained to turns the sorghum project into a FFA booklet describing many breeds Housing. Breeding, perform. The races are run at local public demonstration at a local fair. They strip Feeding Care S1 00 Let the National Association ot Rabbit Breeders help you start right events and always attract a big crowd. the excess leaves off the cane and then AMERICAN RABBIT ASSOCIATION. INC. The pigs were taught to follow a put it into the mill. The old mill consists Box 426-T26 Bloomington, ILL 61701 specific course -out the shoot, through a of two metal rollers which crush the maze and finally through a barrel in cane. It is powered b\ draft horses order to get a reward of food. Bridgette owned by Mr. Herman Litchfield. FIREWORKS-Free Cata Riley was the chief trainer for the chapter's The horses arc hooked to a wooden log— Tall Paul. Inc., 402-NFF project since she lived closest to the sweep which turns the two metal rollers. Washington. Chill icothe. MO chapter operation. While the long sweep turns the mill and 64601. 816-646-2980. (Void Where Bridgette says. "You have to do some sorghum stalks are ted into the mill, juice Prohibited by Law) hollering, hut not hurt the pigs. They is squeezed out and passes into a special have to know you're not going to hurt canister. them. They only get led if they go through the course one obstacle at a Farm Welding Practical, easy to read, illustrated book Tells you time." The first one over the finish line step by step how to do a professional job with your got an apple. AC or DC Welder Written by a 22 year certified welder Order now For the races some of the pigs were Money back guarantee Mail check or money order for S6 95 to given names like Pork Chop, Cheeks, Southcoast. P.O Box 251 The Boss and Theador.(Angie Nissen, Fountain, N C 27829 Reporter) ••• KENTUCKY MOLASSES GUARANTEED 96 10 YEARS! SIZE MAKERS CLOSED The knife for hunting, $ 3 -S1 96 »1 4"-S2.96 fishing and all around In Cadi/, Kentucky, the Trigg County 5' -S3. 96 use Mirror polished/ Sturdy Leather Bell Chapter has a unique project each year. sharp stainless^ Cases SI 25 ea steel blade Along with selling fruit, raising tobacco , The sorghum stalks through the Hugged go horse IF BROKEN WITHIN 10 typical local activities, YEARS WE WILL REPLACE AT NO CHARGEI JscfjOdays nxjrey and many other powered crusher to get juice to boil into it . not pleased Add 99C postage & handling butIt ORDER ANY 3 the chapter raises sorghum KNIVES&WESHIPFREE OROERTODAY Midwest Kmte Co .Dept C-1W6 and makes molasses. Members feed the stalks of 9043 S Western Ave Ocago II 6O620 Mail orders ony OUR 49lh YEAR molasses. sorghum into the crusher while other 30 DAY MONEY BACK OFFER When the weather to or warms up 60 members lead the horse around the circle. 70 degrees, the chapter prepares the soil Most viewers in the crowd are surprised and plants the seeds using a planter. corn to see a horse power piece of equipment. The seeds are planted one to two inches deep and four to six inches apart. I he- rows should be 40 inches apart. Sorghum, when mature, stands 10 to 14 feet high and looks like corn until WELDING SCHOOL, INC. maturity. At that point it forms seed 9363 E. 46th St., So. pods which will turn reddish brown Tulsa, Oklahoma 74145 (918) 627-2699 when ready to harvest. training While the plant is still in the field, the Without a terrible thing happens-- leaves arc removed by knocking them off NOTHING by hand or with a stick. The next step is Dept, of Defense to top the plant by twisting off the top reports indicate a need notum portion of the plant. Alter these two for 100.000 more skilled r^- fe'i _ steps the stalk is cut and laid in piles for welders by 1990, Will ^T^P"^ transportation to the processing mill. you be ready for these well-paid jobs? Train at the school selected by Amoco Oil Co as their training site for 1985, ADVANCED PIPE WELDING OUR The Trigg County members market their SPECIALTY sorghum molasses in pint jars and sell it Instruction in electric arc - oxy- at the fair and in the community. It is a acetylene - Tig (Heliarc) - MIG - Railroad major fund raising option for the chapter. Blueprint • Fitting ASK US ABOUT OUR Next the juice is boiled in the copper WELDER— FITTER TRAINING sorghum pan, 8-foot by 4-foot. The Job Placement sorghum maker constantly stirs the juice Financial Aid Available to prevent scorching and finally cooks Send Coupon for Free Catalog the product to the right consistency. Name -Age. The most experience is needed When this is done, a plug is removed Address in knowing when to stop boiling the juice from the copper pan and the finished in the copper pans. The cooking attracts product Hows into a strainer and then City large crowds to watch the bubbling brew pint jars. These are sold by the chapter. State -Zip. over the open fire pit. ••• (Donna Ixul. Reporter) Telephone. ipril-May, 19SS " " " " The Joke Page When little Joey complained that he Did you hear about the cat that ate The first man claimed his cow could was sick one morning, his second-grade the ball of yarn? It had mittens. eat a bale of hay in one day. A second teacher sent him to the principal's office. Phillip Goolsesby man bet the first man $25 that his cow Joey returned with his shoulders thrown Henegar, Alabama couldn't eat the bale he had in one day. his protruding in a So, the second his back and stomach A young man down on his luck went man brought out high curving arch. house to house in a wealthy neighbor- 1,200-pound round bale (thinking he " Why are you walking thai way?" the hood looking for work. Finally a sym- was pretty sly) and let the first man's asked. eat. it teacher pathic householder said he'd like to have cow His cow couldn't eat in one "/ the principal I day, but finished it in told had a stomach- his porch painted. He told the young two weeks. So the ache," Joey explained, "and he told first man paid the second me man that the paint and brushes were in man $25 with it out until — then he'd take a smile and said, "Thanks, I to stick noon the garage. An hour later the young man was paving in his car. the me home rang the doorbell to collect his pay. $50for same kind of bale before." Bobbie Cooley Mae "Thank you, sir," he said. "By the Kenneth Muzny Bowen, Illinois way, you don't have a Porsche — Bryan, Texas The farmer and his friend were going it's a Ferrari." Sign on a church bulletin board: the street in the farmer's pickup Wilson down Jimmy Lee "Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. when they came to a red light and the Judsonia, Arkansas It 's a good chance to gel rid ofthings not farmer drove on through. turned to He My 15-year-old son came bounding worth keeping around the house. Bring his friend and said, "Don't worry, my in from school and found me in bed. your husbands. brother drives like this." After going "Don't youfeel well. Mom'.'" he asked Marguerite Reasner through a couple of more red lights, they with concern. Indianapolis, Indiana came to a green one and the farmer "No, I don't." I said. A tourist in Florida was admiring an stopped. His friend then asked, "Why " Well, don't worry about dinner," " you Indian necklace. II hat are those things'" are you stopping, it's green'.'" he reassured me, "I'll carry you down to she asked. The farmer replied. ")'es. but it's red the stove. "Alligator teeth." replied the Indian. going that way and my brother might be Renee Richey "I suppose they have the same value coming. Arkansas Lvnn, for your people as pearls do for us. "she Rob Cottle Q: What kind of linen do gingerbread said. Malta, Idaho men sleep on? "Not quite." he answered gravely. A: Cookie sheets. "Anybody can open an oyster." David Rich Dean Walker Plympton, Massachusetts Rush City, Minnesota Charlie, the Greenhand % deL°*"* 'He'll do anything to get somebody else to Visitor: "/ never saw so many flies. Don't you ever shoo them'" Farmer: "No, ma'am, we let them go barefoot." Jenni Brown l.awson, Missouri " I) hat's the charge against this man.'" said the judge to the police officer. "He stole seven cans of soda, your honor." The judge said. "/ can't make a case out of that!" Brian Nelson Ah, yes— the young man in the third row with the bubble gum'" Hinckley, Minnesota Hie National Fl'TL'RE FARM ER wilt pay $5.00 for each joke selected for publication on this page. Jokes must be addressed to the Vational FUTURE FARMER. NOTICE: / O. Box 15160, Alexandria, I A 22309. In case of duplication, payment will befor the first one received. Contributions cannot be acknowledged or returned. 46 The SalionalFt TURE FARMER — _ . = Lama boots The "western" is the most American of all popular dramas. It's not surprising that Sam Elliott, star of many westerns, wears Tony Lama boots, proudly handcrafted by master bootmakers in El Paso, Texas, U.S.A. Shown Left to Right: Ladies' taupe back cut boa (Stock -84SII chestnut lizard (Stock -8563). natural shoulder (Stock • 657il. Tony Lama Company, Inc. • 1137 Tony Lama St. • El Paso, Texas 79915 TOGETHER WE CAN PUT MORE PROFIT BACK INTO FARMING. There's renewed deter- local service. And, as a It's a simple fact that, mination throughout part of the cooperative because you and your farming. We're getting system, it adds world- neighbors own your tough, looking for ways wide marketing clout, a co-op and the Double to increase profits, and voice in Washington, Circle Cooperative one key to greater profits farmer-owned manufac- system, it is committed is having a successful turing facilities for fer- to the success of the fam- co-op in your community. tilizer, feed and petrole- ily farm. That's why A strong, thriving um products, high-profit your co-op's only goal is co-op contributes to your crop and livestock re- to help you make a bet- profitability with com- search, and much, much ter living from farming petitive prices and good more. and ranching. (cog) At your service.