Deuel-Grant Farm Bureau Annual Meeting Proceedings

Published by admin1 on Fri, 10/11/2019 - 1:43pm

DEUEL-GRANT FARM BUREAU
ANNUAL MEETING PROCEEDINGS
   We enjoyed a meal and meeting at High Mountain Supper Club in Altamont, SD, on Sept. 12, 2019. Introductions were made, and the Pledge of Allegiance recited. Our President, John Hall, Sr. announced his retirement. He has held this position for 36 years. Brittney Kenyon was elected our new president by unanimous vote.
   Scott VanderWal, our State President and Vice-President for American Farm Bureau Federation, was given the floor. His focus has been on trade and tariff issues, market programs and the health of agriculture as a national security issue. Bills on E15 fuels, disaster aid, conservation programs, greenhouse gas, clean water act, Ag Labor programs and the dairy bill was discussed. National programs and date changes on planting, haying/grazing, foraging and bedding were covered.
   People in our government offices, that are Farm Bureau members, were named and what offices they hold. Senator Thune’s contributions to our farm economy were stated. Legislation that Governor Noem has before her was highlighted.
   Jerry Runia, our District III State Director, went to a 2-day board meeting. It covered planning, new ideas, helping and aiding counties and their new staff members be more effective. Agra business membership is a new area of development. A discussion was held on REA, municipalities and co-op territories.
   Helen Geppert, our Eastern Regional Manager, handed out information on the territory dispute issues, and how it effects our rural rates. Other flyers passed out were on hemp and spray drift. Also discussed were taxing of dyed fuel, freeze branding, rural health care language in the law. Helen also spoke on youth programs and upcoming events. On Sept. 12, “Young Farmers and Ranchers” are invited to Watertown, SD, for tours and speakers. She also spoke on “Midwestern Collegiate Student Conference” to be held in Brookings, SD, on Oct. 11 and 12. Speakers include Vance Crowe, Derrick Josi, and Scott VanderWal. Tours and activities were mentioned. The State Farm Bureau Conference will be held Nov. 22 and 23 in Sioux Falls. Helen re-enforced Jerry on helping Farm Bureau counties to involve more people.
   Helen and Jerry talked about the “Suicide Prevention Program” sponsored by Avera Hospital. Many questions were asked and pamphlets given out.
   Secretary report was read by Julie Moe. Women’s Report was made by Mary Ann Hall. Jim Effling gave a treasurer’s report. There was no old business. New Business was on ways to interact with more people. Julie Moe volunteered to organize this activity. Jerry Runia and Helen Geppert made suggestions on items that Farm Bureau has to offer.
   Mary Ann Hall read resolutions to be drafted for State Farm Bureau. Topics, when and how to make and draft were covered.
   Elections were held. President: Brittney Kenyon; Vice-President: Scott Brandenburger; Secretary: Julie Moe; Treasurer: Jim Effling. John Hall, Sr. was thanked for all his past leadership of 36 years. The meeting was adjourned.
   Published once at an approximate cost of $32.15.