AFBF Sets Policy for 2014

Cindy Zimmerman

AFBF DelegatesVoting delegates to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 95th annual meeting concluded this week by approving resolutions that will provide the organization with its marching orders in 2014 on unfinished business like the farm bill and immigration, as well as setting policy on new issues such as drones and agricultural data.

“Congress is still haggling over dairy policy, but for the most part, they are very close to completing a five-year farm bill,” said AFBF president Bob Stallman. The Farm Bureau delegates reaffirmed policy supporting changes to the dairy safety net, including margin insurance programs.

When it comes to drones, delegates adopted new policy that supports the use of unmanned aircraft systems for commercial agricultural, forestry and other natural resource purposes. They also supported the requirement for drone users to gain the consent of the landowners, if operating below navigable airspace However, delegates opposed federal agencies’ use of drones for regulatory enforcement, litigation or natural resource inventory surveys.

Delegates approved new policy supporting the protection of proprietary data collected from farmers and maintaining that such data should remain their property. Delegates also voted to support efforts to educate farmers regarding the benefits and risks of collaborative data collection systems. They also approved policy stating that farmers should be compensated if companies market their propriety information, and that farmers should have the right to sell their proprietary data to another producer, such as in the case of a land sale. Delegates voted to oppose farmers’ data being held in a clearinghouse or database by any entity subject to the Freedom of Information Act.

Stallman closing Press Conference
AFBF, Ag Groups, Audio

Passing of Gary Wilhelmi

Cindy Zimmerman

wilhelmiSad to hear that long-time market analyst Gary Wilhelmi has passed away. We remember spending so much time with him on the phone during our days at Brownfield when he would do the midday market analysis. Will always fondly recall his droll sense of humor and great sense of what the markets were doing. Rest in Peace, friend.

Here’s the notice from NAFB:

Gary originated thousands of market reports and commentaries from the floor of the Chicago Board of Trade and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange during his 30 plus year career and was a regular guest speaker on television and at commodity group meetings. In addition to his love of visiting with broadcasters, Gary was an avid baseball fan and always appreciated the opportunity to talk about his family. Gary had been ill since last fall and passed away on Monday. A private service for family is planned in the spring. Cards of condolence and memories of Gary can be sent to:

Nancy Wilhelmi
709 Lytle Street
Valparaiso, IN 46383

Markets, NAFB

Busy Hands, Happy Heart

Melissa Sandfort

QuiltToday Aunt Jeanette writes:

I come from a family that likes to have busy hands. When I was growing up, I remember seeing Mom knitting, crocheting, writing in her daybook (diary – which has answered countless questions!), writing letters to people – you get the picture. It was rare for her to just sit. Same with Dad. He was always reading, doing crossword puzzles (not the fun ‘n easy ones!), playing solitaire, working on jigsaw puzzles, or keeping up to date with the latest farming news and plans for our family’s farm.

As far as I know, all my grandparents were the same way. Our family has a hard time just sitting and doing nothing. Even now, at ages 89 and 91, you will find Mom and Dad keeping their hands and minds challenged and occupied.

imageI was cleaning my closet this afternoon and found this bedspread my grandma made many, many years ago. I decided to put it on my bed because it is just too beautiful not to share. The story behind the bedspread is even more beautiful. Mom tells about Grandma using her egg money, after buying groceries, to buy the crochet thread. Whenever she had enough money saved up, Grandma would buy more thread and add to the bedspread. This took place during the Depression and money was scarce. I cannot even imagine all the work, time, and patience involved in creating this work of art. However, I can imagine how pleased Grandma must have felt when she finally finished her project. It is a piece of my history, a testament to my family’s tenacity, and a story I will always treasure.

I just finished knitting this pair of slippers for my dad. Even though my handiwork isn’t as intricate and delicate as Grandma’s, knitting kept my hands busy. Now my dad will have toasty toes during the next cold snap! And that makes my heart happy.

Until we walk again …

Uncategorized

ACA Assumes Assets, Programs of Farm-City Council

Jamie Johansen

National Ag DayThe Agriculture Council of America (ACA) Foundation has agreed to assume the assets and selected programs of the National Farm-City Council. The Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing links between farm families and urban residents. With this action, the Farm-City Council will move to dissolve on a national level after decades of narrowing the “understanding gap” between urban and rural America on issues of mutual interest.

“The National Farm-City Council, in discussions with the ACA Foundation, determined that the two organizations have very similar missions – to promote the important role of agriculture in our society,” says Hugh Whaley, chairman of the National Farm-City Council. “Given that, the Council has decided to transfer its assets and responsibilities to ACA where these efforts to communicate the value of agriculture will continue. I am confident that the spirit of the mission of the National Farm-City Council will be carried on through the work of the ACA Foundation.”

The ACA Foundation takes care of the charitable aspect of the ACA, which is an organization composed of leaders in ag, food and fiber communities. Public awareness of agriculture’s vital role in society is their goal.

President of ACA, Jennifer Pickett agrees with Hugh in that their missions are similar and the transition will run smoothly.

The annual Charles Eastin Outstanding Service Award and stewardship of the Farm-City trademark are among the programs taking part in the transfer. Recipients will now be selected and awarded by ACA. Those interested in nominating candidates for the 2014 Charles Eastin Outstanding Service Award can do so by clicking here. The Farm-City Symposium will also be worked into National Ag Day.

Ag Day, Ag Groups

Zimfo Bytes

Talia Goes

    Zimfo Bytes

  • Poynter Institute has created a set of online courses just for AAEA members in 2014, available to you at reduced cost.
  • Fortune Fish & Gourmet President & CEO Sean O’Scannlain is the new Chairman of the National Fisheries Institute (NFI), the seafood industry’s leading trade association.
  • American Lamb Board (ALB) is elevating its 2014 strategic communications program to focus more on educating consumers about the basics of lamb, from cuts and cooking methods to the responsible practices of the industry’s 82,000 shepherds.
  • Missouri Cattlemens Association is currently hiring for a Communications Manager.
Zimfo Bytes

Would You Wear Google Glass?

Jamie Johansen

New Holland ZimmPollOur latest ZimmPoll asked the question, “Would you wear Google Glass?”

Some are still unsure what Google Glass is and even more have no desire to wear them at all. But those techies out there look willing to jump on the bandwagon with Chuck and see how these computers you wear on your face could make work easier or simply life more entertaining. Chuck brought his ZimmGlass with him to AFBF earlier this week and captured a few photos and video interviews. But admits there is a learning curve to master them.

Our poll results:

  • Yes – Depending on price – 38%
  • Yes – No matter what – 8%
  • No – 42%
  • What are they? – 12%

Our new ZimmPoll is now live and asks the question, “How did the ‘Polar Vortex’ affect you??”

Last week the country faced record lows. Some trudged through heavy snow and blizzard like conditions and others battled ice and freezing rain. Chuck and Cindy even suffered in Florida with temps in the teens. Windchill conditions closed schools and cancelled events. But farmers and ranchers nationwide still had work to do. Even more of a reason to thank a farmer! How did last week’s extreme cold affect you?

ZimmPoll

Not-so-beardless Duck Dynasty Brother at AFBF

Cindy Zimmerman

afbf-robertsonHe’s been called the “beardless brother” of the Robertson clan, but he had a full face of fur at the Farm Bureau meeting this week, albeit not quite the ZZ Top look the other “Duck Dynasty” males sport.

As the newest member of the “Duck Dynasty” cast, Alan Robertson told thousands of farmers and ranchers that his reason for joining the family’s television series after three seasons on A&E was to show America what a “real home” looked like and to have a larger platform to spread his message about “the kingdom of God.” The former pastor said his family’s motto is “Faith, Family, Ducks.”

Robertson believes the reason Duck Dynasty is so popular is that viewers want shows that demonstrate the Christian family values that Americans need and are missing today.

“Something ordinary to us and probably to you [farmers] like working hard all day and coming home to have dinner around a table at night has become extraordinary to people in the 21st century,” said Robertson. “That’s what the kingdom of God is – having a place called home.”

Listen to an excerpt from Alan’s comments here: Duck Dynasty brother at AFBF

2014 AFBF Convention Photos

AFBF, Ag Groups, Audio

Atlanta Harvest is Urban Farming

Chuck Zimmerman

Atlanta HarvestWhen Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack spoke to the AFBF Convention yesterday he talked about the idea of urban farms and how we should be open to the idea of farm diversity. I just had this project brought to my attention since one of the founders has a connection to my family in Georgia. It’s Atlanta Harvest. They’re looking for funding as they get the project off the ground. Here’s what their mission statement says:

The mission of Atlanta Harvest is to cultivate passion and drive innovation in the city, for the city. We love the city of Atlanta and want to see it thrive through dignifying work opportunities and increased access to locally grown, farm fresh food. Our goals are:

  • To close the gap between local food producers and local food consumers
  • To further spread the art and career of farming to distressed neighborhoods in the city
  • To support communities through increased economic vitality
  • To meet the Atlanta market’s demand for farm-fresh organic produce from within the city

We will accomplish these goals by creating a food hub and a network of independently-owned, high-output farms. The food hub will provide processing, distribution, and marketing for the farms. The farms will produce a consistent, organic supply of leafy greens! Through our farming network, individuals or organizations with little to no farming experience can quickly own and operate their own farm. And thanks to the food hub, they will have a guaranteed buyer and seller for all that they produce. The Atlanta Harvest model is designed to serve both farmers and customers.

Farming, Video

AFBF Voting Delegates Make Policy

Chuck Zimmerman

Florida Farm Bureau DelegationThe annual meeting of the voting delegates of the American Farm Bureau Federation is underway here in San Antonio, TX. This is grass roots at its finest.

Throughout the day the delegates will work through the AFBF policy book making changes and perhaps adding new policy positions. Each one is placed on very large screens so everyone can easily read the proposals and see the changes as they are made and voted on. Of course there is discussion but the process moves pretty quickly.

I spoke with Florida Farm Bureau President John Hoblick who sits on the AFBF board. In my interview he walks us through the process and talks about the policies of highest importance to Florida farmers and ranchers. I worked for Florida Farm Bureau once upon a time. It is where I got my start in agricultural communications! John is pictured with the FFBF delegation.

You can listen to my interview with John here: Interview with John Hoblick 2014 AFBF Convention Photos

AFBF, Ag Groups, Audio, Farm Policy

United Soybean Board Tackles Weed Resistance

Chuck Zimmerman

Bob HaselwoodBob Haselwood, Kansas soybean farmer, is the Vice Chairman of the United Soybean Board (USB) and Chuck met up with him during the 2014 American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Convention to see what we can see from USB in the upcoming year.

Bob shared that their main focus during AFBF is to talk with farmers about weed resistance. USB recently helped fund a joint project working with 16 state universities to increase education and communication with farmers about weed resistance.

“Today we have charts on the different chemicals and how they relate to one another. We also want to make sure they are using the right rate at the right time. We are trying to take a proactive stance over weed resistance.”

USB is staying on top of the use of technology and has launched www.TakeActionOnWeeds.com. Growers can utilize this quick reference point on their phones, tablets and computers.

Looking into the future Bob says he is optimistic about the 2014 soybean crop. He also discussed their support of the bio-diesel industry.

You can listen to my interview with Bob here or watch it below: Interview with Bob Haselwood


2014 AFBF Convention Photos

AFBF, Ag Groups, Soybean, USB