Attacks on Animal Agriculture

Rep. Adrian Smith       In August, C-SPAN's Washington Journal featured Jeff Kerr, general counsel for the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Foundation. During the interview, he stated, "There are many things human beings used to do for thousands of years that we've evolved beyond, and our interaction with animals is the next version of the civil rights movement in this country." This statement illustrates the political extremism of organizations such as PETA and the Humane Society of the United States which regularly attack animal agriculture. Nebraska's farmers and ranchers provide for the needs and welfare of livestock and poultry every day, as they know producing high quality products depends on raising healthy animals. Because their livelihood depends on cultivating crops and livestock to develop our nation and feed the world, the success of any operation is tied directly to land quality and livestock well-being. Despite statements such as Mr. Kerr's, the true evolution over thousands of years has been the improvements made to animal care and food safety. Unfortunately, many recent developments have shown how these attacks on animal agriculture are pervading scientific and government organizations. This week, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a warning linking red meat to increased cancer risk, despite admitting numerous studies showed no correlation between red and processed meats and cancer.        The WHO's biased claim comes as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) continue their work on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which has elicited its own controversy. The administration's Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC) released recommendations earlier this year for Americans to decrease red meat consumption based on non-nutritional factors. I joined many of my colleagues in sending letters to USDA and HHS, expressing my concerns about inconsistencies within the report and the DGAC's lack of focus on sound science.Federal regulations on school lunches have also caused headaches for schools across the country. When visiting schools across the Third District, I have too often heard stories of insufficient meals leading to students attending their after-school activities on empty stomachs or stopping by local fast food outlets. The Child Nutrition Act is due for reauthorization, and I am concerned how recent unfounded criticism of meat consumption might lead to additional regulations. Any reauthorization must be based on sound science and allow local officials who best know the needs of their students to exercise more discretion over meal options. In a strange twist, the Bureau of Prisons banned pork from federal prison menus on October 1, claiming pork was the lowest-rated food option by prisoners. Following a national backlash and congressional inquiries, the Bureau reversed its decision only nine days later. Documentation provided by prison officials after the reversal showed the majority of prisoners actually liked pork or felt neutral about it. Though this chain of events defies explanation, the removal of pork from prisons – as brief as it may have been – is certainly consistent with the administration's ongoing attack on animal agriculture. Our producers continue to demonstrate they are dedicated to providing the highest quality, safest, and most affordable food in the world. In my role as co-chairman of the Modern Agriculture Caucus, I am committed to standing with them by promoting sound science and sensible policies which move animal agriculture forward. Upcoming Events Representatives from my office will host two mobile offices on Thursday, November 5. If you need assistance dealing with a federal agency or would like to take advantage of the constituent services available through my office, I hope you will be able to attend one of these events: Garden County Mobile Office Garden County Courthouse 611 Main Street, Oshkosh, NE 69154 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (MST) Arthur County Mobile Office Arthur County Courthouse 205 Fir Street, Arthur, NE 69121 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (MST)For additional information, please contact my Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333.My office is also hosting a Senior Services Fair in Grand Island on Thursday, November 12.Officials from the Nebraska Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) will be on hand to provide private consultations with seniors about Medicare Part D plan options. Seniors seeking plan assistance should bring a complete list of their prescriptions taken, including dosage information.  Experts will be available to answer questions about Social Security. Nursing students from the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) will also provide complimentary blood pressure screenings. A representative from the Department of Veterans Affairs will also be in attendance to discuss VA services. Grand Island Senior Services Fair Grand Generation Center 304 East 3rd Street, Grand Island, NE 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (CST) *It is strongly recommended attendees schedule appointments directly with SHIIP in advance of the fair by calling 1-800-234-7119.For additional information, please contact my Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900.   Sincerely, ADRIAN SMITH Member of Congress *

Blue Hill High School football advances in D1 playoffs.

The Blue Hill High School Bobcat football team will advance to the second round of the D1 playoffs. The Bobcats will take on Burwell in Burwell at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, November 4th.
 Due to this, Blue Hill school will be dismissed at noon on Wednesday, November 4th.

STRAIGHT FROM THE HORSES MOUTH

Duane A. Lienemann
UNL Extension Educator

                        
     The decision by Subway just one week ago was frustrating for those of us who raise livestock for meat and know what we really do to raise healthy food. It goes to show you that the “fear mongering” type of marketing is more and more present in our retail food chains and this is evident with Subway’s decision. If they would have just done some research or include animal scientists or farmers and ranchers they could have saved some face and angst. What makes me feel good about this whole issue is that enough people in agriculture took action and reached out to Subway about their policy that Subway came back with a revised statement that backs off considerable on their original statement. 
     The new statement is supposed to be: "That said, we recognize that antibiotics are critical tools for keeping animals healthy and that they should be used responsibly to preserve their effectiveness in veterinary and human medicine. Our policy is that antibiotics can be used to treat, control and prevent disease, but not for growth promotion of farm animals.” Accordingly, they are asking their suppliers to follow BQA and FDA guidelines, which they specify. Perhaps our collective voices were heard. I will keep an eye on if this is done, but still no Subway sandwiches for me until they do!
     Bacon is a Carcinogenic: Does it seem like the United Nations has an agenda against livestock? Well, it does to me. First it was Livestock’s Long Shadow, the report that made outrageous claims about livestock GHG emissions. This week the World Health Organization (the United Nations’ public health arm) issued a report from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) claiming: “Processed meats, including sausages and bacon as carcinogenic to humans. Red meat, including beef, pork, and lamb, are probably carcinogenic to humans.” This report came out of a collaboration between the World Cancer Research Fund, the WHO, and the American Institute of Cancer Research.
     You must remember that the IARC are the same group that has gone after GMO’s, 2,4-D, diesel fumes, and more recently glyphosate,  A third of that group, the World Cancer Research Fund, is at best suspect to me in that they first published a debunked report “The Cancer Project” which was funded and operated by Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), a vegan, animal rights group whose views are closely aligned with PETA. It should also be noted that IARC’s Dr. Christopher Portier is not only associated with both the IARC and the World Cancer Fund, but was/is also involved in the Environmental Defense Fund. Conflict of interest perhaps? To me, this once again illustrates how international scientific bodies continue to put politics over science, run anti-industry witch-hunts and have become the playground for environmental activist predators using the cloak of an international body to try to give their campaigns a resemblance of credibility. While we can argue whether the meat-cancer link is settled or junk science, the impact on the livestock futures markets was significant when it was announced! It has and will hurt the livestock industry.
     Things like this unfortunately are picked up by those that are trying to stop animal agriculture and have an agenda that is not favorable to us as meat producers. Even news centers like television, radio and papers follow the same path. They of course use headlines that are scary and fully use this as a fear mongering tool to go after their favorite target or to sell their program. It is too bad that they don’t do the study and divulge the whole deal. The WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) weighs the strength of the scientific evidence that some food, drink, pesticide, “smokeable” plants, whatever is a carcinogen. What it does not do is consider how much that substance actually increases your risk for actually getting cancer—even if it differs by magnitudes of 100. The designation puts processed meat in the same category of hazard as tobacco. While that sounds like music to the ears of those that continually animal agriculture, that doesn't mean eating bacon and hot dogs is as dangerous as smoking, as some headlines suggest, and in fact not even close. It really only means that, in the judgment of WHO, there's sufficient evidence to link meat to increased rates of cancer - not proof!
     The American Cancer Society warns that IARC’s list of carcinogens needs to be considered in the appropriate context, saying: “The lists themselves say nothing about how likely it is that an agent will cause cancer. Carcinogens do not cause cancer at all times, under all circumstances.” You must take into consideration so many factors that it is impossible to come to a direct conclusion. It should be pointed out that IARC does ‘hazard identification’, not ‘risk assessment’.
That sounds quite technical, but what it means is that IARC isn’t in the business of telling us of what the potential something is in causing cancer, only whether it does so or not”. That is like pointing to a banana peel and saying “there’s potential danger, but they can’t really tell you if stepping on it or slipping will actually cause your death or even how injured you will be. That means that this report should be taken in the context that it is formed.
     Ag leaders were quick to condemn the IARC report as “not supported by science.” Specifically, the meat industries criticized the report in that the IARC was unable to reach a consensus agreement from a group of 22 experts in the field of cancer research. As a result, the IARC settled for a “majority” agreement. One of the individuals who sat in on the decision making process stated that many of the panelists were aiming for a specific result despite old, weak, inconsistent, self-reported intake data. They tortured the data to ensure a specific outcome.” The report was strongly criticized by the North American Meat Institute (NAMI), which said the “IARC’s vote to classify red meat and processed red meats as cancer “hazards” defies both common sense and numerous studies showing no correlation between meat and cancer.” 

The preceding information comes from the research and personal observations of the writer which may or may not reflect the views of UNL or UNL Extension. For more further information on these or other topics contact D. A. Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator for Webster County in Red Cloud, (402) 746-3417 or email to: dlienemann2@unl.edu or go to the website at: http://www.webster.unl.edu/home 

Blue Hill Bobcat Football team defeats Elm Creek

Blue Hill Bobcat Football NSAA Playoffs final  score Blue Hill 54 Elm Creek 26.

Madalynn Maxine Bock Muhleisen June 21, 1921 to October 21, 2015

Former Blue Hill resident Madalynn Maxine Muhleisen, 94, passed away Wednesday, October 21, 2015 at her home in Hastings.

Services were Saturday, October 24, 2015; 10:30 A.M. at Faith Lutheran Church, Hastings with Pastor Paul Dunbar officiating.  Burial was in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, Blue Hill.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Faith Lutheran Church or American Alzheimer’s Association.  Visitation will be Friday, October 23, 2015; 9:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. with family present 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home, and one hour prior to service at the church.  

Madalynn was born June 21, 1921 in Blue Hill, Nebraska to Carl & Alma (Kuhn) Bock.  She married LaVern Muhleisen on June 21, 1941.  Madalynn was a homemaker, and a member of Faith Lutheran Church and American Legion Ladies Auxiliary.
     
Madalynn and her husband LaVern lived on a farm 3 miles south of Blue Hill and farmed until they retired and moved to Hastings.

Madalynn was preceded in death by her parents and great-granddaughter, Korri Duffield.

Madalynn is survived by her husband LaVern of Hastings, her son Ronald LaMar Muhleisen of Rowlett, Texas, her daughter Ardyce Jean and husband Robert Duffield of Hernando, Fl and Carla louise and husband David Heitmann of Wichita, Kansas.  Four grand children and seven great grandchildren.

Prospects Look Good for Pheasant Season

 

LINCOLN – Upland game hunters across Nebraska will have improved prospects during this year’s pheasant season, which opens Oct. 31. Pheasant numbers are 55 percent higher than last year.
Nebraska’s weather has been kind to the state’s upland game this year. The state has experienced relatively mild winters recently, which has aided over-winter survival of pheasants. The more pheasants – particularly hens – that survive the winter, the larger the breeding stock is for the breeding season.
The favorable spring weather this year allowed pheasant populations to increase in relatively short order. Rainfall this past spring appears to not have occurred during the sensitive phases of the nesting and brood-rearing periods; chicks during the first week or so of life cannot regulate their own body temperatures and have low survival if they become wet and catch a chill.
The timely spring rainfall also produced abundant vegetation, which in turn produced abundant insects. The insects provide chicks with food they need to grow and develop into healthy adult birds. Having adequate nutrition during development can result in healthier adult birds and possibly increase their survival through the winter. The vegetation also provided ample habitat for nesting and for brood-rearing, which had been lacking.
Surveys this year have indicated that pheasant abundance was higher in all regions of the state compared to 2014. The southwest and Panhandle regions should offer the best hunting opportunities this year, but better opportunities should be available statewide.
The season runs through Jan. 31, 2016. The entire state is open to pheasant hunting, although no hunting is allowed on state refuges and sanctuaries. Only rooster pheasants may be harvested. The daily bag limit is three and the possession limit is 12.
Quail season dates are the same as for pheasant. Surveys have indicated increases in abundance of quail compared to 2014 across almost all of the quail’s range. Habitat conditions were excellent for production and brood-rearing across the state. The southeast and south central parts of the state should offer the best opportunities this year, but there will be good opportunities throughout quail range.
To view the full report, visit www.OutdoorNebraska.org ,  and then click on Hunting, Upland Game, and Forecast. Hunters can find public hunting sites as well as private sites open to public walk-in hunting in the Nebraska Public Access Atlas. Go to www.OutdoorNebraska.org, and then click on Guides.

Special youth pheasant hunt is Oct. 24–25

The statewide youth pheasant, quail and partridge season is Oct. 24–25 and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission again will have a special youth pheasant hunt on 10 wildlife management areas.

Youth ages 15 and younger are encouraged to participate. Rooster pheasants will be released at specific wildlife management areas before the special youth hunt season. The special hunts are open to the public, and the number of participants is not limited. No registration or special permit is required. Special regulations posted at each of the 10 areas will apply to all portions of the designated areas normally open to hunting. All other current youth and regular hunting regulations also will be in effect on these designated areas. Read more for a listing of participating areas and event details.

UPCOMING EVENTS

EVENTS: 

 

 

Nov. 4-5: 8th Annual Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference, Omaha Hilton, Omaha, NE http://nebraskawindandsolarconference.com/

Sept. 23: Silver Lake Farm Safety Days, Webster County Fairgrounds, Bladen, NE

Dec. 2-4: Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Convention, Younes Conference Center, Kearney, NE  www.nebraskacattlemen.org/

Dec. 3: Webster Co Christmas Greenery Workshop, Exhibit Hall, Webster Co Fairgrounds, Bladen, NE ckumke2@unl.edu

Dec. 5: Webster Co Christmas Greenery Workshop, Exhibit Hall, Webster Co Fairgrounds, Bladen, NE ckumke2@unl.edu

Dec. 6-8: Nebraska Farm Bureau Annual Convention, Embassy Suites, LaVista, NE

 

Football Score Blue Hill Wins another

Final score Blue Hill 42-13 over Axtell.

Addressing Washington’s Spending Addiction

Rep. Adrian Smith

Congress faces a familiar deadline on November 3 to raise the debt ceiling. We have reached this cliff far too many times in recent years, when the federal government hits its limit on the total amount of money it can legally borrow. Failing to fulfill debt obligations would push our country into default and lead to potentially catastrophic impacts on our economy.
The debt limit, however, is not the real problem. The real problem lies in the federal government’s refusal to recognize the dangers of spending beyond its means, putting our country’s fiscal situation in peril.
There is no shortage of taxpayer dollars flowing to Washington. According to the Congressional Budget Office, federal revenues will rise by 7.6 percent and reach a record $3.249 trillion this year alone. This rate of increase is more than twice as fast as economic growth. Meanwhile, our national debt will still surpass the current $18.1 trillion debt limit due to the culture of spending in Washington.
An October 18 editorial by the Wall Street Journal cited numerous sources of increased government spending, including an $85 billion spending jump in Medicaid in two years under Obamacare and a $30 billion increase in mandatory Department of Education spending. The editors noted, “Mr. Obama’s takeover of the student-loan business is costing far more money than advertised.”
As Nebraskans unfortunately know too well, one of the most glaring instances of wasteful government spending has been seen in the failure of Obamacare-created Consumer Operated and Oriented Plans (co-ops), which received $2.4 billion in federal startup loans. Today, more than one-third of these 23 co-ops have collapsed, including CoOportunity Health in Nebraska and Iowa.
It defeats the purpose of a debt limit to simply raise the borrowing authority without doing anything to address the drivers of our long-term deficit. Any increase in the debt ceiling should be paired with significant budget reforms or other solutions to put our country on a better, more sustainable path.
While we push toward these reforms, the House passed a Ways and Means Committee bill this week called the Default Prevention Act. This legislation would eliminate the threat of default by requiring the U.S. Treasury to roll over any principal and interest due on our current debt in case the debt ceiling is not raised. It also protects seniors and people with disabilities, as it allows the President to continue making all Social Security payments under these circumstances.
Though we must focus on changing Washington’s spending practices, we cannot allow our country’s credit rating to hang in the balance.
Additionally, the debt ceiling deadline reinforces the need for tax reform. Americans should be rewarded for their hard work and encouraged to start businesses and create jobs, rather than being forced to feed Washington’s spending addiction through higher taxes. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over tax policy, I will continue to work toward a fairer and simpler system which removes barriers to job creation and puts our country on a sustainable path to economic growth.

STRAIGHT FROM THE HORSES MOUTH

Duane A. Lienemann
UNL Extension Educator

        I have commented on Panera and particularly Chipotle’s over the fear mongering they are using as a marketing tool to further their business at the expense of our farmers and in particular our livestock producers. Now we have another fast food restaurant that has joined this despicable attempt to placate the ideology driven activist groups by joining in on this fray. It seems that Subway, the world’s largest fast food chain, recently announced a detailed plan to eliminate antibiotics use in all of its U.S. meat supplies. Subway’s official press release notes that it pledged to remove artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives by 2017. But what caught my eye is that Subway plans to begin serving meat that has never received antibiotics – poultry in 2016, pork and beef six years after that is complete. Did you catch that? Let me repeat – “meat from animals that have NEVER received antibiotics in its lifetime!” You have to be kidding me! Do they even have a clue?
     Subway said its announcement that this was the "culmination of several months of intensive work with suppliers" and that it is proud to finally be in a position to share its plans. Yeah right! Give me a break! Try to find any livestock producer who will verify that they were consulted. Subway said the decision was not a reaction to any campaign, and that it continually works on improving its menu. Oh really? Well, I call that this statement a big pile of male bovine excrement!! 
     In reality the announcement comes after this coalition of activist groups launched a campaign targeted at the sandwich giant this summer. These groups as a part included: Natural Resources Defense Council, Friends of the Earth, Center for Food Safety, U.S. Public Interest Research Group (Ralph Nader group), and food blogger Vani Hari (The infamous “Food Babe”). They have campaigned to get Subway to commit to buying meat produced without the routine use of antibiotics, and provide a timeline for doing so. Interesting enough the activist organizations timed their pressure on Subway with their 50th anniversary. These activist groups recently notified the company that they would be delivering nearly 300,000 petitions to its headquarters later this month, calling for action on antibiotics. Subway took the easy way out. What is sad is that by committing to eliminate antibiotic use in chicken, turkey, pork and beef, the company has gone beyond McDonald’s commitment earlier this year. There was no consultation with producers or animal scientists. They just buckled to bullies!
      I believe that this sandwich chain also makes the move to compete with its rivals and have in reality have given in to pressure from these activist groups, following recent events that have dampened their efforts to retain an image of “Fresh Food”, which had become their moniker. These activist groups have constantly stated that they believe that ending the routine use of antibiotics in livestock will stop the growth of drug-resistant superbugs. Although a link between agriculture and drug-resistant superbugs has not been proven, these activist groups and others have targeted agriculture rather than focusing on the proven link between health care and the misuse of antibiotics by humans or actually studying animal drugs. 
     It is as well known fact that many people don’t take an antibiotic for the recommended period of time, which can make that same antibiotic less effective the next time it’s needed. It is the same effect that farmers have seen with pesticide resistant weeds. I would suggest reading the information at: http://www.mnfarmliving.com/2015/03/what-you-really-need-to-know-about-antibiotics-in-livestock.html.   Ryan Goodman has stated it well in his blog: “Subway emphasized sourcing meat that has never received antibiotics. As posted on the Subway Facebook page, “We’re always working to make our products even better. That’s why we’re transitioning to serve only meats that have never received antibiotics starting in 2016.” This is dangerous. Antibiotics are important tools to treat disease. Most activist complaints focus on the use of antibiotics in feedlots, but most fail to acknowledge their importance in treating illnesses. This includes treating cattle in pasture and range situations, where activists claim they want livestock to be raised. Removing this tool from livestock farming and ranching families, with the guidance of veterinarians, is dangerous to our ability to continue raising healthy animals.” I full heartedly agree with Ryan’s assessment. Please go to: http://agricultureproud.com/2015/10/20/subway-removing-antibiotics-and-facebook-comments/ . I do wish that Subway would have consulted animal scientists and had actually worked with producers before they made this knee-jerk reaction that has far-reaching consequences.
     Subway is not only trying to be like Chipotle and Panera when it comes to selling fast-food, but the world’s largest restaurant chain is also resorting to similar social media tactics. I know that several individuals; including ag bloggers and even myself, have posted on Facebook and on their website in regards to this egregious move, only to have our comments deleted. There is a name for businesses or people who do this sort of thing, but I can’t use that in print. I will let you make your own mind up. What are they afraid of? Perhaps the truth? Even if they do know the truth they are taking the low road!
     Of course these activist groups are touting Subway’s position as “a victory for public health.” While the spokesperson said Subway should be “commended for answering its customers’ calls,” I will guarantee you that the pressure did not come from customers. The pressure came from these fear-mongering activist groups, and Subway – like many others – complied to avoid the potential for negative publicity that is easily created by these groups. They caved rather than take the honest and science based route. While changes will take place over the next 10 years, it remains unseen if those “changes” have holes like Subway’s Swiss cheese, and how the marketing that surrounds the claims is framed. For now I am adding Subway to the list that contains Panera and Chipotle’s that I will not reward with my fast food dollar. No foot-longs for me!
The preceding information comes from the research and personal observations of the writer which may or may not reflect the views of UNL or UNL Extension. For more further information on these or other topics contact D. A. Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator for Webster County in Red Cloud, (402) 746-3417 or email to: dlienemann2@unl.edu or go to the website at: http://www.webster.unl.edu/home 

Fischer Responds to Obama's Vetoof Funding For Troops

Bipartisan NDAA Would Authorize Crucial Funding for Military As Threats from Russia and ISIL Increase Across the Globe

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, released the following statement regarding President Obama’s veto of the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) this afternoon:

“It’s disappointing to see our commander in chief playing political games at the expense of our men and women in uniform. This year’s NDAA was the product of bipartisan compromise and overwhelming support in both the House and Senate. It also meets the budgetary levels requested by the president. 

“We live in a dangerous world. As we have seen from the ever-growing list of global problems, the threats are only increasing. Our military needs the authorities contained in this bill to perform its missions and defend our nation. Sadly, the president’s objection has nothing to do with protecting our nation – it is based on a partisan, political demand that more taxpayer dollars be spent on agencies like the EPA and the IRS.

“The federal government has no higher obligation than protecting our nation and providing for our national security. It’s time for the president to make this his top priority.”

On October 6, the Senate voted 70 to 27 in favor of the 2016 NDAA. Senator Fischer served on the conference committee to reconcile the House and Senate versions of the bill. The NDAA provides important funding and resources for the men and women of the U.S. military, and it meets the budgetary levels requested by President Obama.

Senator Fischer joined Majority Leader McConnell and Armed Services Chairman John McCain at a press conference earlier this month, urging President Obama to sign this bill into law. 

STRAIGHT FROM THE HORSES MOUTH



Duane A. Lienemann
UNL Extension Educator

                                     
     We are quickly getting the crops out of the field. This has been one of the most open and quickest harvest season I have seen in many years. If it weren’t for the chance of fire because of the dryness we are experiencing it would be a perfect harvest – other than some lower dryland yields and of course prices. Speaking of prices, many people in the beef industry will tell you that cattle prices are getting soft and that means there won’t be the margin in the cow/calf sector as there has been the last couple of years. To keep costs down and try to keep afloat our cattlemen must look at some ways to save some money at least on feed. With harvest we have a huge opportunity to offset these declines in both sectors – crop and cattle. 
     Stalk fields properly grazed after harvest provide low-cost feed for cow herds. You are seeing fences being put up and cattle turned out into stalks every day with the advancement of harvest. Harvested corn, soybean and milo fields make a great opportunity for grazing after a lack luster three months of growth in our pastures. So there is definitely a benefit for the cows and of course for the cattlemen. It should be pointed out here that it is just not livestock producers but for crop farmers. There are benefits from grazing and not the potential harm that many fear. Crop farmers could profit from better use of stalk fields in more ways than financially. Let’s look at some benefits of grazing stalks for livestock and crops.
     Years ago, stalk fields offered lots of dropped ears. With stronger stalks and better combines, little corn is left in the fields, so some farmers think there are not positives about having their fields grazed in the fall. Let’s start with blow-down corn fields or stalk rot, which was rampant this year. In cases of storm or stalk rot dropped ears, there’s real benefit in grazing. Cows reduce volunteer corn the next year. One must also consider the benefit of reduced residue when you go to planting next year, especially on no-till fields. You will also find the soil warms up a little quicker the following year. One thing that is often overlooked is the benefit that comes from the recycled residue that comes out as waste from the cow which contains many types of minerals and particularly the readily available nitrogen that the cow produces in that way. With the downward shift in corn prices, extracting added value from cornfields offers a huge benefit that should not be overlooked. In the era of general farms with a combination of cow herds and crops, stalk grazing was common. That has gone by the wayside unfortunately but there is potential for beef farmer and crop farmer cooperation on grazing. 
     There are several advantages for cattle using stalk fields. A combination of cornfields and fall pasture can carry a cow herd a long time without feeding a bale of hay in an open winter, but many in our area don’t have the luxury of pastures that haven’t been grazed yet so the corn stalks are a blessing. However we must note that grazing must be done in about three months. Corn fields might carry cows until about Christmas. Going much after that becomes doubtful. That makes it important that you turn in cows soon after harvest. Corn forage starts going downhill in quality rather quickly, especially with any fall moisture. There’s an added grazing benefit in many cornfields that we probably don’t think about --grass field edges and waterways. Cows enjoy the treat of those green growing areas or even as dry grass. And the grass gains from annual grazing so don’t fence those areas off. They also make a great lounging area for resting after grazing. 
     The most often used argument that I have heard over the years from farmers is that they fear tromp damage to their soil from herds. That seems most prevalent with those that minimum or no-till their fields. When I asked them about that, they indicated that their crop consultants and seed corn dealers have told them that, and in some cases they have seen it with their own eyes. There are of course those that feel they have to disk under their stalks as soon as harvest is over. I have never understood that practice, if nothing more than to leave snow catching elements for their fields. At any rate many corn farmers have not utilized cattle on their crop residue, mostly because of the fear of losing bushels to the acre the following year. However the University of Nebraska has many studies that repeatedly show there is no yield decrease in corn or soybeans the next year after grazing and in fact some increase, especially in the case of soybeans. Of course there must be some common sense management. If big rains come to soften fields, take the cows off. Move them to a sodded paddock. It is better to sacrifice a grass area instead of a crop field. You won’t win any favors if you leave cattle out on soggy fields.
     I know that a lot of people are not sure what these stalks are worth either to them as cattlemen or as crop farmers. There is some help out there outside of your local coffee shop. A University of Nebraska-Lincoln spreadsheet allows farmers and ranchers to make better informed decisions about cattle grazing corn stalks. An Excel spreadsheet, titled “The Corn Stalk Grazing Calculator”, can be accessed at http://extension.unl.edu/statewide/westcentral/agecon3. The spreadsheet estimates the number of animals that can be supported on a given field of corn stalks with a specified yield, and also has an economic evaluation including the cost to transport the livestock and check their care and conditions plus several other factors.
     Another possible use is to help cattle owners evaluate the feasibility of grazing their cattle on corn stalks at various distances from their primary production center. The two most common ways to price corn stalks used for grazing is on a per head per day and per acre basis. Rates can vary based on variations in lease terms and forage potential. In some cases, fences are built and maintained by the landowner, while in other cases the cattle owner provides the fences. The same is true with watering equipment. This tool can help you come to an agreement on rental rates that are fair to both parties. I see advantages to both cattlemen and corn farmers, so I highly recommend that they put their heads together for mutual profit!
The preceding information comes from the research and personal observations of the writer which may or may not reflect the views of UNL or UNL Extension. For more further information on these or other topics contact D. A. Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator for Webster County in Red Cloud, (402) 746-3417 or email to: dlienemann2@unl.edu or go to the website at: http://www.webster.unl.edu/home 

Raymond N. Heinrich September 3, 1919 to October 14, 2015

Raymond N. Heinrich
Raymond N. Heinrich, 96, of Hastings, Nebraska, died Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2015, at Mary Lanning Healthcare in Hastings.
Raymond was born September 3, 1919 near Campbell, Nebraska, the son of John and Sophie Johnson Heinrich.
He married Viola Alber the 26th  of Dec 1946 in Blue Hill Nebraska.  The union was blessed with five children.  Rodney, Linda, Larry,  Lois and Nancy.

Services were Saturday, Oct. 17, 2015, 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Blue Hill, Nebraska, with Pastor John Dinkins officiating.
Burial with military rites by the Naval Honors Burial Detail and Kent Kailey Post #45 were at the Blue Hill Cemetery in Blue Hill.

Hastings College Play production for children explores powerful topics ‏

(Hastings, Neb.) – Struck twice by lightning, Violet becomes the supercharged Miss Electricity with control over all things electrical. She uses her power to attach tests and bullies, but what will all that power do to her head?

 

Find out as the Hastings College’s Alpha Psi Omega theatre honorary produces “Miss Electricity” by Kathryn Wallat as its annual Production for Youth. Show times are December 3-5 at 7:30 p.m. and December 5 at 2 p.m. at Scott Studio Theatre (806 N. Turner Ave.) Because the production serves as the organization’s fundraiser, all tickets are $5. They can be reserved by emailing tickets@hastings.edu.

 

Hastings College Theatre Presents

The Annual Alpha Psi Omega Production for Youth

 

MISS ELECTRICITY

By Kathryn Wallat

 

CAST

VIOLET: Carly Cremers from Columbus, Nebraska

 

FREDDY: Nathanael Sass from Hastings, Nebraska

 

CONNIE: Cheyenne Knehans from Riverton, Nebraska

 

BILLY: Austin Heinlein from Hutchinson, Kansas

 

MOM: Lexi VanDeWalker from Denver, Colorado

 

NARRATOR: Dodge Weishar from Bison, South Dakota

 

ATHENA: Hannah Conlon from Isburn, Ireland

 

MRS. WALDO: Anna Flairty from Omaha, Nebraska

 

OWL: Alex Rieflin from Doniphan, Nebraska

 

STAFF

DIRECTOR: Emma Parrish from Sterling, Colorado

 

STAGE MANAGER: Grace Rempp from Hastings, Nebraska

 

SOUND DESIGNER: Alex Goerner from Yuma, Colorado

 

SCENIC DESIGNER: Nate Mohlman from Blue Hill, Nebraska

 

COSTUME DESIGNER: Sandy Spady, Adjunct Instructor

 

COSTUME CREW HEAD: Emma Atuire from Denver, Colorado

 

COSTUME CREW: Sabrina Maxwell from North Richland Hills, Texas

Alyssa Rock from Denver, Colorado

Costume Construction Class

 

SCENIC CREW HEAD: Barrett Russell from Saronville, Nebraska

 

LIGHT CREW HEAD: James Bachman from Thornton, Colorado

 

LIGHTING AND SOUND CREW: Mason Lindbloom from Omaha, Nebraska

Laurel Teal from Castle Rock, Colorado

 

HAIR AND MAKEUP: Rebecca Holcomb from Parker, Colorado

Elphie Forbes from Aurora, Colorado

 

PROPS CREW HEAD: Tyler Donovan from Denver, Colorado

 

PROPS CREW: Miranda Aschoff from Hastings, Nebraska

 

RUNNING CREW: Elphie Forbes from Aurora, Colorado

Alyssa Rock from Denver, Colorado

 

BOX OFFICE: Aaron Pierce from Cozad, Nebraska

Jordan Samuelson from Kearney, Nebraska

 

Founded in 1882, Hastings College is a private, four-year institution located in Hastings, Nebraska, that focuses on academic and extracurricular achievement. With 64 majors and 15 pre-professional programs, Hastings College has been named among “Great Schools, Great Prices” by U.S. News & World Report, a “Best in the Midwest” by The Princeton Review and a "Best Bang for the Buck" school by Washington Monthly.

 

 

 

STRAIGHT FROM THE HORSES MOUTH

Duane A.Lienemann
UNL Extension Educator

     Most of the soybeans are out and farmers in our area on really focused on getting the corn into the bin. I have heard reports all over the board on yields in both dryland and irrigated fields. Of course a lot of that depends on what the field was in last year and if you were blessed with moisture at the right time this year.  One thing is for sure, we in South Central Nebraska have not had to contend with wet soils during the harvest, and in fact it is rather dusty out there. That is part of the reason that some farmers are a little late in getting the wheat planted this year. The other factor is the availability of good clean seed wheat in our area. Most farmers have had to go outside of their usual suppliers to secure the seed they wanted. There is of course some wheat that was planted early, if they had the seed. I have been getting questions from farmers on timing of planting and in particular because there may be some late planting of wheat. Let’s take a look at some factors.
     There are several other reasons for planting early. One is to get adequate ground cover to avoid erosion from wind or water. Another is to get adequate plant growth to assure winter hardiness. A third reason is to quicken maturity the following summer and avoid excessive heat stress. However, it is also a given that planting winter wheat too early lengthens the time when environmental conditions (warm temperatures and moisture) are favorable for development of fall season diseases such as wheat streak mosaic, barley yellow dwarf, and leaf rust. Disease-vectoring insects such as aphids and wheat curl mites have more time to transmit diseases if wheat is planted too early. Then on the other hand planting too late gives little time for wheat to establish itself before cold winter temperatures set in. This can result in weak plants that are vulnerable to attack by diseases in the spring. Therefore, it is recommended that wintert wheat be planted during the recommended date range for the respective wheat growing regions in the state.
     It should be noted that the normal Hessian Fly-free date for planting wheat, for instance Webster County is September 27-29; so we really are not that far past that time. The date is after flies lay their eggs. Many follow that date and for good reason. Other reasons for delaying planting include avoidance of wheat streak mosaic virus, Russian Wheat Aphid, crown and root rot, and too much fall growth. Excessive fall growth causes excessive moisture use and stress. But now we are getting close to the optimum time for planting wheat. What do we do? 
     The best bet is to follow the guidelines that Robert Klein, Extension Western Nebraska Crops Specialist, has laid out in an article that can be found at: http://cropwatch.unl.edu/Delayed-Wheat-Seeding  Last but not least; be sure to use certified seed wheat that has been treated to increase seeding success. The seed treatments need to thoroughly coat the seeds to give good results and should be applied with quality seed-treating equipment. One word of advice.  If you are enrolled in the Farm Program be sure to check with FSA for Federal Crop Insurance purposes for planting! There are different dates for counties for FSA qualifications for the Farm Bill provisions. You can find your final planting date for FSA at: http://www.rma.usda.gov/fields/ks_rso/2015/final/newheattext.pdf  
     PLC and ARC Payments: I know a lot of farmers are starting to think about the payments that many will receive from their decision on the 2014 Farm Bill. Payments are scheduled to go out to farmers in the next few weeks. This may not shock anyone, but it is worth noting, that as I understand it, farmers will take a 6.8% cut in their farm-program payments because of federal sequestration rules. Payments under PLC and ARC for 2014 will be cut 6.8% no matter when a farmer went to a Farm Service Agency county office to sign up. The cut covers several USDA programs, including the Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs. It also affects marketing loans, and the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program. You will get less dollars than you think. What is the reason for this? Here is what I found.
     Federal budget sequestration was passed by Congress in 2011 and officially kicked in during 2013. The legislation detailed specific percentage cuts for mandatory and discretionary federal programs. USDA detailed some of the programs cut in 2013, but that was prior to the passage of the latest version of the farm bill. Ideally, a new list will be generated to provide full details of all the affected programs. The good news is that in 2013, the USDA did state that Conservation Reserve Program payments were not affected by sequester cuts. So your CRP payments should not be affected.
     Speaking of payments…..it looks like there will also be some disparity in those payments, so you may want to be braced for that. We are finding that payments could vary based on county revenue formulas. For instance in Nebraska, some checks will run $20 an acre, others closer to $80 an acre in large part because of the local variation in 2014 yields. The shift to county-based calculations for the new farm safety net highlights how aid is supposed to be targeted to those in need. For most producers, it means bumper 2014 county yields offset the decline in prices, so they won't meet the threshold for farm payments. But for farmers who operate in more than one county, this bureaucratic technicality will likely be frustrating. At issue is that program payments will be determined by your "administrative" county Farm Service Agency (FSA) office. For growers with farms in multiple counties, that rule means Agricultural Risk Coverage-County checks will not be paid at county rates where the ground is located BUT where records are housed. Also a formula for blending irrigated and non-irrigated acres may also contribute to some payment disparities. I know this applies to several counties in South Central Nebraska, so you may want to stay tuned for the latest in the Farm Bill saga!


The preceding information comes from the research and personal observations of the writer which may or may not reflect the views of UNL or UNL Extension. For more further information on these or other topics contact D. A. Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator for Webster County in Red Cloud, (402) 746-3417 or email to: dlienemann2@unl.edu or go to the website at: http://www.webster.unl.edu/home 

Pheasant season is just around the corner

 

Pheasant season opens on Oct. 31 and Game and Parks biologists anticipate 2015 will be a great year for hunting. Mild winter condition and timely spring rainfall have resulted in increases in pheasant abundance statewide. Spring rainfall also resulted in abundant cover, with staff reporting excellent habitat conditions across the state. Rural mail carrier survey results indicated that pheasant abundance was higher in all regions compared to 2014.

Visit outdoor Nebraska  website for information more information on the pheasant forecast, as well as for information on where to hunt.

STRAIGHT FROM THE HORSES MOUTH

Duane A. Lienemann
UNL Extension Educator

                 It seems like I have always been involved with 4-H, and for that matter have for most of my life. Since from about age 8 on I have in some way either was in 4-H, worked with 4-H, had a daughter or grandkids in 4-H and of course the last 15 plus years as a Nebraska Extension Educator I have been intimately involved with 4-H activities on the county, district and state levels. It may be a surprise to some, since I was a long time ag education instructor and FFA Advisor, that I was a 10 year 4-Her and still have my record books, 4-H awards and meeting attendance bars for my 4-H Achievement pin. It was the foundation on which I built my eventual career. It led me to a love of agriculture and a decision to go to a high school with an agriculture program and then on to college to see what direction to go with my life as a career choice.
     Actually two people beyond my parents were instrumental in that monumental decision that I made when I graduated from high school. The Franklin County Ag Agent and my high school Vocational Agriculture teacher at good old Wilcox high school both saw something in me and advised that I needed to go beyond the borders of familiarity and spread my wings at UNL. I was always curious and had an insatiable appetite for anything that involved agriculture and I am certain that my involvement in 4-H was the catalyst for that desire. I really wasn’t sure what I wanted to major in or what path may be ahead of me but knew it would be some form of agriculture starting with Pre-vet Science. That was until I found out how much chemistry I had to take, and I will be the first to admit that was not my best subject. So I ended up majoring in Ag Education/Ag Economics/Agronomy in the hopes of getting a high paying job in the ag industry, but ended up doing just what my mentors thought that I should do. Now over a 50 years later I have gone full circle and thanking an organization that had such an impact in my own person life. I would like to point out that this is special week for the four leaf clover! 
     National 4-H Week is October 4-10: 6 million young people across the country are celebrating National 4-H Week, an annual celebration of 4-H during the first full week of October. During this week, 4-H is showing pride in the great things that 4-H offers young people and show our thanks to the incredible 4-H youth in our communities who work each day to make a positive impact on their respective communities. For more than 100 years, 4-H has stood behind the idea that youth is the single strongest catalyst for change. What began as a way to give rural youth new agricultural skills, today has grown into a global organization that teaches a range of life skills. 4-H is dedicated to positive youth development and helping youth step up to the challenges in a complex and changing world. 4-H is dedicated to helping cultivate the next generation of leaders and tackling the nation’s top challenges such as the shortage of skilled professionals, maintaining our global competiveness, encouraging civic involvement, and becoming a healthier society. 4-H is really making the best better!
     I find it interesting that the renowned Tufts Institute did research on the positive affect of 4-H and not so surprisingly to me found that he structured learning, encouragement and adult mentoring that young people receive through their participation in 4-H plays a vital role in helping them achieve success in life and actively contribute to their collective communities. The research by Tufts showed that the 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs in the out-of-school time. I know the value of youth organizations like 4-H/FFA and can verify the advantages they bring. 
     4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for career tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA, and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. In Nebraska, 1 in 3 age-eligible youth across all 93 counties are enrolled in 4-H, for a total enrollment reaching approximately 140,000 youth. Nearly 50,000 youth participated in school enrichment experiences and over 33,000 Nebraska youth were members of a 4-H Club. Nearly 11,000 youth and adults participated in 4-H camping programs and approximately 12,000 volunteers share their time and resources with Nebraska 4-H. I think that is pretty darn impressive.
     4-H Grows Here: The mission of Nebraska 4-H is to empower youth to reach their full potential working and learning in partnerships with caring adults. Nebraska 4-H strives to help young people achieve their greatest potential by introducing high-quality youth development experiences into the lives of Nebraska youth and families. Engagement in 4-H results in youth who are making positive decisions related to their health and their future goals. Further, they are advocates and leaders determined to leave a lasting impact on Nebraska communities. By taking part in Nebraska 4-H, youth are preparing for a successful future by focusing on 4-H Science, Agricultural Literacy, Career Development and College Readiness, Community Engagement, and Healthy Living. If you wish to learn more about 4-H, I encourage you to go to: www.4-h.org  or http://extension.unl.edu/statewide/webster.  Incidentally, the 2015 National 4-H Week Theme is: 4-H Grows Here! I think that is a very appropriate theme and it is evident in the county that I am lucky enough to live and work in. 4-H does grow and prospers with the support of the communities, parents, businesses and of course our youth! Happy 4-H Week!

The preceding information comes from the research and personal observations of the writer which may or may not reflect the views of UNL or UNL Extension. For more further information on these or other topics contact D. A. Lienemann, UNL Extension Educator for Webster County in Red Cloud, (402) 746-3417 or email to: dlienemann2@unl.edu or go to the website at: http://www.webster.unl.edu/home 

FOOTBALL SCORE

BLUE HILL 66   SHELTON 0

Lora M. Premer February 4, 1939 to September 30, 2015

Blue Hill resident Lora Mae Premer, 76, died Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2015, at Bryan Medical Center West in Lincoln. Services are 10 a.m. Saturday at the United Methodist Church in Blue Hill with Rev. Ken Zimmerman officiating.
Lora Mae McChesney was born February 4, 1939 to Percy and Eunice McChesney.  She had five brothers, William, Jim, Ray, Eloise, and Gary, and three sisters Alice  Helen and Mildred.
She married James Edward Premer June 5, 1960.
They were the parents of five children.  Starrlet (Kent) Klute, Rocky (Tracy) Premer, Scott Premer, Brent (Angela) Premer, Dusty (Karen) Premer.

Obamacare: Two Years Too Long

Rep. Adrian Smith

            October marks the two year anniversary of Obamacare’s implementation, and most Americans suffering the damaging consequences of this deeply flawed law know it has been two years too long. From rising premiums and dropped coverage to the abrupt collapse of CoOportunity Health, Obamacare continues to hurt Nebraskans, expand the size of government, and skyrocket the national debt.  

Obamacare’s Consumer Operated and Oriented Plans, or CO-OPs, exemplify the mounting failures of the President’s health care law. CoOportunity Health, the CO-OP serving Nebraska and Iowa, went bankrupt earlier this year and was liquidated by the state of Iowa after only one year of offering health coverage. In July, Louisiana Health Cooperative announced it would be closing. In August, Nevada Health CO-OP announced to its 14,000 subscribers that it too would close by the end of 2015. Just last week, New York state told Health Republic Insurance of New York to stop writing new policies and to shut down operations.
These four CO-OPs received approximately $146 million, $66 million, $65.9 million, and $265 million, respectively, in taxpayer funds. It is highly unlikely those loans will ever be fully repaid; instead, taxpayers will be forced to pay for the losses of these failed programs. Numerous organizations, including the Galen Institute and the Council for Affordable Health Coverage, have asked Congress to investigate the egregious misuse of funds.
This week, I joined Ways and Means Health Subcommittee Chairman Kevin Brady and Ways and Means Oversight Subcommittee Chairman Peter Roskam in sending a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services seeking more information on the financial solvency of CO-OPs. The American people have already shouldered far too many of Obamacare’s burdens, and I will not stop pursuing this issue until we know why there was not more oversight of these CO-OPs and how to prevent further damage to taxpayers.
The Ways and Means Committee, of which I am a member, took an important step toward dismantling Obamacare by passing reconciliation legislation on Tuesday. This bill would repeal a series of significant pieces of the President’s health care law: the individual mandate, the employer mandate, the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB), the medical device tax, and the “Cadillac” tax. Without these onerous provisions, Obamacare would likely crumble under its own regulatory weight.
Reconciliation requires three House committees – the Ways and Means Committee, the Energy and Commerce Committee, and the Committee on Education and the Workforce – to each produce at least $1 billion in savings focused on taxes and spending under their respective jurisdictions. These bills are reported to the House Budget Committee, where they will be assembled into one reconciliation bill to be voted on by the full House. The bill then has an easier road to passage in the Senate, where only 51 votes are required rather than the usual 60-vote threshold. This process is our best opportunity to fulfill our commitment to the American people by finally putting an Obamacare repeal bill on the President’s desk.
Additionally, the House passed legislation this week called the Protecting Affordable Coverage for Employees Act, of which I am a cosponsor. This bill would allow employees to keep the health plans they like while protecting small businesses from higher premium costs under Obamacare. With small businesses providing 55 percent of all jobs in the United States, we need to make sure costly Obamacare regulations do not force them to close their doors.
Rampant problems with the President’s health care law continue to impact Nebraskans, but I am hopeful both chambers of Congress can come together and finally relieve Americans of Obamacare’s regulatory burdens while increasing access to quality care.

Compassion and Prosperity

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

 

“I am happy that America continues to be, for many, a land of dreams.”

These words were spoken by Pope Francis during his recent address to a joint meeting of Congress. I was humbled and honored to join the American people in welcoming Pope Francis to our country. The touching events of his visit have been truly remarkable.

I was pleased to have Dr. Maryanne Stevens, president of the College of Saint Mary in Omaha, as my guest for the pope’s historic address. In the spirit of Pope Francis, Dr. Stevens is passionate about educating others to serve those in need. She possesses an unwavering commitment to service. Also, nearly 100 Nebraskans received tickets through my office to view a telecast of the pope’s address on the West Lawn of the Capitol. There, they received a blessing and prayer as Pope Francis addressed the crowd from the speaker’s balcony. Many of them traveled well over a thousand miles to Washington for this special moment. I am so glad they were able to share this profound experience.

The message Pope Francis delivered was moving, and I believe it connects with all Americans. We all understand the need to care for one another. We are all entrusted with the responsibility to care for the least among us. We need to care for our world. We must respect life, religious freedom, and liberty. This universal message of compassion is powerful and should be taken to heart.

I am inspired as I reflect on our many blessings, both as Nebraskans and as Americans. In Nebraska, we are blessed with wonderful people, spacious skies, and productive land. This is especially evident during this time of year – the harvest. Across our state, Nebraskans are reaping the bounty of their work.

September 20 through September 26 marked National Farm Safety and Health Week. Nebraska feeds the world, and agriculture is central to the viability of our state. As our farmers and ranchers dutifully tend land and livestock each and every day, they also face many dangers when carrying out their responsibilities. To secure the prosperity of their land, our producers must have the right knowledge, tools, and resources to remain safe and successful.

At the federal level, we need responsible policies that will allow our producers to do their job, which is to feed the world. This is critical, not only for our state’s economy, but also for a hungry and growing global population. This means putting a halt to burdensome regulations that are harming our farmers, ranchers, and their families.

Please know that I will continue working to address these challenges. By working together, we can help ensure that Nebraska will continue to provide America and the world with the safest and most affordable food supply.

As I reflect on the compassion and prosperity that fills our nation, I am reminded how blessed we are to live in, as Pope Francis so aptly pointed out, “the land of the free and the home of the brave.”

Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.

October Birthdays

October 1 -- Jayden Hamel, Robert Long, & Joan Classen.

October 2 -- Joseph Bell & Sharon McShane .

October 3-- Jessica Alber & Kristina Hubl.

October 4-- Roy Faimon, Chad Parr, Tim Gilbert, Robert A. Piel & Kristine Barnhill

October 5--Gene Falgoine, Elizabeth Buschow

October 6 -- Doyle Krueger, Barbara Krueger, Dean Buschow, Todd Whipple, & Dora Danehey

October 7-- Riley Skrdlant, Ron Karmazine & Selma “Sammy” Krueger

October 8 -- Kim Henderson, Brandi Higer & Danielle Schmidt

October 9 -- Carissa Krueger Cox, Janette Hoffman

October 10 -- Adolph Niemeyer & Brandi Mohlman.

October 11 -- Jennifer Stertz, & Chris Marcello.

October 12 -- Thong DetAksone, Paul Zimmerman, Kathy Seeman , & Todd Kranau

October 13 -- Julie Zimmerman, Julie Gibert, Jessica Kort, & Alice Koertner

October 14 -- Dara Kort, Everett Underwood & Greg Brenn

October 15 -- Ida Krueger, Roxanne Wademan, & Helen Koertner

October 16 -- Savanna Alber , Neil Kort, Aric Robinson, Natalie S. Schunk & Chris Meyer

October 17 -- Agnes Karr, Keri Toepfer, & Godfrey Strausburg

October 18 -- Julie Classen Howard, Pam Rose & Wilma Schulz.

October 19 -- Steve Krueger, Ken Kort, George Mazour, Chad Duval, & Robert Carper

October 20 -- Louis Goding.

October 21 -- Roger Hoffman & Joe Marcello

October 22 -- Lyle Bostock, Susan Johnson, Jerry Welke, & Riley Schultz

October 23 -- Leann Worley, , Kim Higer, Tom Van Boening, Jeff Wells, & Stuart Kerr

October 24 -- Steve Hubl,

October 25 -- Kathleen Bauchman, Paul Krueger & Rosaleen Gianokas

October 26 -- Larry Krueger, Lisa Hubl, Wilmer Wells, 

October 27 -- Amy Overy
October 28 -- Jeremy Kort, & Roger Koertner.

October 29 -- Alan Meyer & Brad Hargis

October 30-- Mark Siebrass, Harvey Scheiding, Pam Johnson, & Wilma Frazier

October 31 -- James Meyer, Dorthey Meyer, Stephanie Frasier & Rhonda Brewster.

October 31 Parker Trumble