The Agricultural View
July 2010
http://theagriculturalview.blogspot.com
by Ralph D. Coffman
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HSUS Sues Ohio
Out of state, trained and well paid signature collectors invade Ohio.
When Ohioans for Humane Care was struggling to get the required number of signatures to put their initiative on Ohio’s ballot in November, what happened? HSUS to the rescue! The Humane Society of the United States pursued Ohio unleashing its money and powerful legal team to overturn our state law which made it illegal to have out of state signature collectors come into Ohio for state ballot initiatives. HSUS’s attorneys convinced a Federal Judge on May 14 to rule Ohio’s law unconstitutional! Washington D.C. and Wayne Pacelle’s money and power win and Ohio’s family farmers lose. The result was a tremendous increase in the collection of signatures insuring HSUS’s leverage in the fight!
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Governor Stickland Brokers Deal
Governor Ted Strickland brokers a deal between HSUS (Wayne Pacelle) and various agricultural industry leaders (lead by Jack Fisher of Ohio Farm Bureau). (See pages E & F) 1
Doug Mercer’s treatments are going well and are now complete. Doug is glad that they are over and appreciates your continued prayers.
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Similarities between Agricultural Education/FFA and AgriBusiness Planning & Analysis (APA) Programs
Unique Strengths:
1.Year round (fulltime - 12 month) instruction (In serious jeopardy for some programs!).
2. Personalized in home/on farm instruction which develops a special bond and genuine trust between the student and the instructor.
3. Both rely on advisory committees which act as a lifeblood between the farm and the program. Example: Following a meeting a few years ago one advisory committee member, who was new to the committee, stated to me, “these people (all 12 present) really care about the program – that’s impressive.” Advisory committees have been considered essential to our schools and the state recommends that programs have active advisory committees.
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Ohio FFA Camp is one of the most overlooked, underappreciated and effective FFA programs for students in Ohio. Todd Davis is FFA Camp Muskingum’s Director. (See - ohioffacamp.org)
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From the View’s Desk - Ralph
I would like to thank you so much for those of you who have supported the newsletter by making financial contributions (subscriptions, donations, ads, and postage) to the View. 2
Livestock Video Questions
I have watched the heinous video (Conklin Dairy Farm) where Billy Joe Gregg commits atrocities against innocent animals - it is worse than awful! Although I do not necessarily encourage you to watch the video I do have some questions to pose: 1. If this supposed animal-loving undercover agent from Mercy for Animals really cared about these innocent animals, then why did he watch and record nearly 20 hours of this abuse and apparently did not once confront Billy Joe? This seems suspicious - unless you are looking for money and political capital. 2. If Billy Joe was not aware of this undercover sting, then why does he at one point appear to look directly into the video camera and brag about his various atrocities against animals? 3. At one point the video highlights the owner Gary Conklin trying to get up a large Holstein cow (approximately 1400 pounds) that obviously has been down a while – Gary is certainly aggressive, but not abusive. If you have any experience in these matters you realize once a cow gets down you only have so many days to get her up or she will give up/die. Wouldn’t you do your best to get her up because you may have only one opportunity to save her? 4. Are you aware that animal activists Gary Yourofsky called for an attack on the Conklin Farm? He asked activists to bring any tools necessary to “destroy/tear down” the farm, and he supported the harming of people! He cancelled when the police became involved. 3
Alfalfa is the fourth largest crop grown in the United States. Alfalfa is a legume and has a deep single tap root system which can go many feet into the ground with smaller roots branching off of the tap root. This is why in a drought alfalfa plants remain very green in color. Contrast this with grass which has a very shallow (few inches deep) multi root system.
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Teenage Corner - Summer
For students that have a genuine desire to learn it is very important that you continue to keep your mind sharp by:
1. Reading good books. Young people need to develop a love/joy of reading which is becoming obsolete in today’s world.
2. Exercising daily if you are not involved in daily physical work.
3. Make a habit of sleeping only 8 hours. (See Proverbs 20:13)
4. Limit the time that you play electronic games, watch TV, listen to music, just loaf to 2 hours/day. Idle time dulls the mind!
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A Glance Back – by Hugh Coffman
(In the early 1800’s in Washington County) Rice was grown along with corn, oats and wheat. The excess cattle were taken to the Eastern markets and wool was also sold by the ton to Eastern Manufacturers. 4
Veterinary CHASERS? THE YEAR 2035
Veterinary CHASERS (similar to ambulance chasers) caused a traffic accident near Barlow, Ohio. The CHASERS claim they were not speeding and would fight the citation.
Farmers and veterinaries in Washington County seek protection from veterinary CHASERS as accidents increase.
Farmers argue that these people have no right to enter their farm property and that the CHASERS are only after prospective clients (the animals in need of veterinary care) and are simply money hungry.
Veterinaries are concerned that traveling to the farms is becoming so unsafe that farmers may need to transport all farm animals in need of care to the vet’s office.
Additionally, both local veterinaries in Washington County (who still treat large animals on the farm) are concerned that this change and impending costly expansion of their office facilities may force them out of business or to consider early retirement.
CHASERS (Citizens Helping Animals Secure Emergency Rights Safely) founded by Billy Joe Sustein (no relation to multi-millionaire Cass Sustein who was a pioneer in the Animals’ Right to Sue movement and once served as America’s Regulatory Czar). Billy Joe maintains CHASERS desire that the farm animals safety and legal rights are
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protected. (See *YEAR 2060)
Livestock Farmers Extinct? *YEAR 2060
Animal rights activists claim farmers’ methods of transporting farm animals to veterinary offices are inhumane and argue that farmers should be required to transport sick animals to veterinary offices in specially equipped animal ambulances (named after human ambulances).
The five family livestock farms, still existing in Washington County, claim that the immense costs of owning such a vehicle could be the final nail in their farms’ coffin. In a last ditch effort these livestock farms (each located in different geographical areas in the county) are working on a compromise agreement to share two ambulances between the five farms.
Animal ambulances are already required in California & Michigan for farms with over 200 animal units (number, weight, feed consumption factored in). Additionally, if Ohio passes HSUS’ (2060) Issue 4 requiring each farm with over 200 farm animal units to have their own animal ambulance then attorney J.P. Coffman, who represents the five farms, will request the courts waive the law for Washington County by citing Appalachia.
The federal government is currently working on a bill to take ownership of Ohio’s failing family livestock farms as they have previously done in California and Michigan. Government officials indicate that they will not take over the farms until all legal bankruptcy terms are finalized. Farmers may remain in their homes 60 days.
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July Insert Page (The Agricultural View)
Remember the warmer it gets the harder livestock have to work to get rid of the heat. This can significantly lower production and you should therefore be sure to provide plentiful water and shade where possible.
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*The advertisers in this issue (A-F) support The Agricultural View and the promotion of agriculture, however, they may not necessarily agree with every point of view within the newsletter.
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In 1997 the growth rate of world food production became less than the growth rate of world population.
(Dr. Jack Cline Retired OSU)
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In 1874 - 87% percent of America’s Universities were run by ordained ministers. Very few exist in today’s America!
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I sincerely believe that banking establishments are more dangerous than standing armies, and that the principle of spending money to be paid by posterity, under the name of funding, is but swindling futurity on a large scale.” Thomas Jefferson A
CUT OUT THE MIDDLEMAN
MORE DOLLARS FOR THE FARMERS!
Our packers want your steers and cull cows!
National Farmers Organization
Northeastern OH Jeff Rautseyer 330-749-7793
Southeastern OH Scott Upton 740-378-6102
Western OH Pat Lampert 937-726-2341
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Getting down to
Agribusiness
Register today!
Washington State
Community College
www.wscc.edu
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Food will spend about 72 hours in the digestive system of a cow.
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Ed Long - Financial Advisor
Edward Jones
MAKING SENSE OF INVESTING
468 Pike Street Marietta, Ohio 45750 740-373-5437
ed.long@edwardjones.com
B
State Farm
Providing Insurance and Financial Services
Coffman Insurance Agency
Terry Coffman, Agent
426 Third Street Marietta, Ohio 45750-2101 740-373-6399
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Witten Farm
Market
& Greenhouses
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H & S Construction, LLC Scott Hart
Joe Schilling
Beverly, Ohio 740-984-0203
Commercial & Residential
WV# 033991
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The Ohio FFA Alumni Association
If you support the FFA then become a member of the Ohio and/or National FFA Alumni Association, by contacting Lexie Poulson at: 1poulson.bright.net or your local Ag. Ed. Teacher. Annual dues are $15.00 & Lifetime dues are $150.00
C
SEAMAN’S
GENERAL MERCHANDISE, INC.
P.O. BOX 10 * BARLOW, OHIO 45712
Served In The Tradition Of Yesterday
Charles F. Seaman 1-740-678-2450
1-800-428-2450 Fax 1-740-678-2678
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William D. McFarland
Washington County Auditor
205 Putnam Street Marietta, Ohio 45750
740-373-6623, ext. 263
Res. 740-374-3304 Fax 740-376-7424
bmcfarland@wcgov.org
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This newsletter goes to over 400 homes and to nearly one hundred Agricultural Education/FFA departments. Thanks to Farm Credit for assisting with postage.
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Please thank, and patronize where possible, our sponsors.
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Farmers must continue to be very careful who you hire, who is watching and/or videoing your farm from the road or a neighboring property. It is scary what editing and a change of context can do. Please be alert at all times.
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Scott Hart 35 Ray Harr Road
Owner Beverly, OH 45715
Rainbow c 740-350-2047
International o 740-984-2424
Restoration * Cleaning f 740-984-0424
Independently Owned & Operated Franchise
WATER FIRE SMOKE
24 Hour Emergency Response / Deodorization Insurance claims from start to finish Carpet, upholstery & drapery cleaning
3M Scotchgard™ treatment
Pet stain & odor removal
Tile, grout & hard-surface cleaning
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Governor Brokers Deal
Governor Ted Strickland accomplished what seemed impossible by brokering a deal (not legally binding) between Wayne Pacelle (HSUS) and Jack Fisher (representing the Ohioans for Livestock Care steering committee (which includes Farm Bureau, Ohio Pork Producers Council, dairy, poultry, corn and soybean associations).
Governor Strickland said, “This agreement
represents a joint effort to find common ground. As a result, Ohio agriculture will remain strong and animals will be treated better.”
E
Wayne Pacelle (HSUS) stated, “I am grateful to Governor Strickland and his administration for their outstanding leadership on these issues”. “We are grateful, in particular, for the Governor for helping negotiate this deal, and to agricultural leaders who sat down in good faith on these issues.”
Jack Fisher (Ohio Farm Bureau) said, “One of animal agriculture’s most vocal critics has agreed (by dropping their ballot initiative for November) that the Livestock Care Standards Board (Issue 2) is the proper authority to handle difficult questions about farm animal care.”
Dick Isler (Ohio Pork Producers Council) said, “We have an agreement that I think without question will allow the pork industry to remain viable in the state of Ohio. Given that animal agriculture is constantly changing, we will always find new and better ways to do things and I think that’s also true with animal housing.”
Ohio Dairy Producers Association – Although there was some give and take throughout the process, ODPA is pleased to see an outcome that will work for Ohio agriculture, and in particular, the state’s egg, pork & veal farmers.
I have mixed emotions as agriculture is saving millions of dollars but the state seemed to give up a significant amount. However, if HSUS’s ballot initiative would have passed in November agriculture would have given up much more! Only time will tell. For farmers the fight will never end with animal rights groups – Ralph.
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Additionally it conerns me that this seemed to be the Governor's show and not agricultures. Also, it bothered me that the other agriculture leaders were cut out of the picture in most publications and only Governor Strickland, Wayne Pacelle and Jack Fisher were left in the photo.
Friday, July 16, 2010
"Agreement Specifics"
Governor Strickland (The Broker), Wayne Pacelle (HSUS), Jack Fisher (Agricultural Ohioans for Livestock Care coalition committee representing – Farm Bureau, beef, pork, dairy, poultry, soybean and corn organizations – who individually made decisions to negotiate).
The Specifics
The specifics of the agreement include the following:
1) Recommendations will be made to The Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board (OLCSB)to take action on issues related to downer cattle and humane euthanasia using language consistent with the proposed ballot initiative.
2) The Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources will coordinate and take action on wild and dangerous animals including the prohibition of the sale and/or possession of big cats, bears, primates, large constricting and venomous snakes and alligators and crocodiles. Existing owners will be grandfathered in, but they could not breed or obtain new animals.
3) Recommendations will be made to the legislature to support and pass SB 95 largely in the current form, which regulates dog breeding kennels.
4) Recommendations will be made to the legislature to support and pass HB 108, which will increase penalties on individuals who engage in cockfighting.
5) Recommendations will be made to the OLCSB to adopt the American Veal Association 2007 agreement to transition to group housing for veal calves by 2017.
6) Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) will issue a statement in support of the mission and purpose of the OLCSB and will engage and work with the Board. Organizations representing Ohioans for Livestock Care and the HSUS will examine and jointly fund independent research projects and studies to identify best practices and to work for the highest farm animal care and welfare standards. If assistance of a third party is needed they will jointly agree on a representative to help in these discussions. When this work is complete, the findings will be presented to the OLCSB.
7) Recommendation will be made to the OLCSB for current hog producers and to phase out the use of gestation crates by December 31, 2025. By that date time all sows must be housed using alternative systems. After December 31, 2010, any new facilities must utilize alternative sow housing (not gestation crates). It is understood that in all housing systems, sows may be housed in breeding/gestation stalls until they are confirmed pregnant.
8) Recommendation will be made to the OLCSB to adopt standards to instruct ODA to deny permits of new egg facility applicants, based on current permitting standards that call for the use of battery cages. This standard will be in effect for the life of this agreement. This provision does not preclude any Ohio farm from expanding or modifying existing permits, using current housing methods at the existing facility.
9) HSUS will also not initiate litigation (nuisance or otherwise) to attempt to use legal process to obtain the same ends as articulated in the ballot initiative in Ohio through the life of this agreement. HSUS will not fund, advise or otherwise support other organizations to move forward in their place.
10) The HSUS will not submit a constitutional amendment on animal welfare in 2010 to the Ohio Secretary of State. Failure to implement the provisions related to wild and dangerous animals or the reforms recommended to the OLCSB by December 31, 2010 could void the agreement and allow the HSUS to pursue a ballot initiative whenever it chooses. However, if the terms of this agreement are met and implemented to the satisfaction of all parties, the agreement will extend to January 1, 2014. At that time the agreement shall be extended through January 1, 2017, and subsequently through January 1, 2020, if the terms continue to be met, and no party shall reasonably withhold its consent to the extensions. Any future pursuit of a ballot initiative by HSUS could nullify the limitation on gestation crate or battery cage facilities until and unless other lawful prohibitions come to exist.
The Specifics
The specifics of the agreement include the following:
1) Recommendations will be made to The Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board (OLCSB)to take action on issues related to downer cattle and humane euthanasia using language consistent with the proposed ballot initiative.
2) The Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources will coordinate and take action on wild and dangerous animals including the prohibition of the sale and/or possession of big cats, bears, primates, large constricting and venomous snakes and alligators and crocodiles. Existing owners will be grandfathered in, but they could not breed or obtain new animals.
3) Recommendations will be made to the legislature to support and pass SB 95 largely in the current form, which regulates dog breeding kennels.
4) Recommendations will be made to the legislature to support and pass HB 108, which will increase penalties on individuals who engage in cockfighting.
5) Recommendations will be made to the OLCSB to adopt the American Veal Association 2007 agreement to transition to group housing for veal calves by 2017.
6) Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) will issue a statement in support of the mission and purpose of the OLCSB and will engage and work with the Board. Organizations representing Ohioans for Livestock Care and the HSUS will examine and jointly fund independent research projects and studies to identify best practices and to work for the highest farm animal care and welfare standards. If assistance of a third party is needed they will jointly agree on a representative to help in these discussions. When this work is complete, the findings will be presented to the OLCSB.
7) Recommendation will be made to the OLCSB for current hog producers and to phase out the use of gestation crates by December 31, 2025. By that date time all sows must be housed using alternative systems. After December 31, 2010, any new facilities must utilize alternative sow housing (not gestation crates). It is understood that in all housing systems, sows may be housed in breeding/gestation stalls until they are confirmed pregnant.
8) Recommendation will be made to the OLCSB to adopt standards to instruct ODA to deny permits of new egg facility applicants, based on current permitting standards that call for the use of battery cages. This standard will be in effect for the life of this agreement. This provision does not preclude any Ohio farm from expanding or modifying existing permits, using current housing methods at the existing facility.
9) HSUS will also not initiate litigation (nuisance or otherwise) to attempt to use legal process to obtain the same ends as articulated in the ballot initiative in Ohio through the life of this agreement. HSUS will not fund, advise or otherwise support other organizations to move forward in their place.
10) The HSUS will not submit a constitutional amendment on animal welfare in 2010 to the Ohio Secretary of State. Failure to implement the provisions related to wild and dangerous animals or the reforms recommended to the OLCSB by December 31, 2010 could void the agreement and allow the HSUS to pursue a ballot initiative whenever it chooses. However, if the terms of this agreement are met and implemented to the satisfaction of all parties, the agreement will extend to January 1, 2014. At that time the agreement shall be extended through January 1, 2017, and subsequently through January 1, 2020, if the terms continue to be met, and no party shall reasonably withhold its consent to the extensions. Any future pursuit of a ballot initiative by HSUS could nullify the limitation on gestation crate or battery cage facilities until and unless other lawful prohibitions come to exist.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
The May Issue
For past issues, poems and letters simply scroll down and past posts,
Enjoy - Ralph
Sorry the formating is not better.
The Agricultural View
May 2010
http://theagriculturalview.blogspot.com
by Ralph D. Coffman
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The Ohio Livestock Care Board is appointed and ready to get to work as established with Ohio voters passage of State Issue 2 in 2009. However, here comes the Washington D.C. based political machine (Humane Society of the United States) to deny Ohio’s voters utilizing their nearly 100 million dollar annual budget (99% of which does not go to animal shelters)! They and their partners are currently hiring workers to secure the required number of signatures to put their own initiative on the ballot this fall. Their goal is to get a second chance to try to deceive Ohio’s voters and negate the Ohio Livestock Care Board’s constitutional mandate. Why is HSUS having another group masquerade as the lead group?
Check: HumaneWatch.org & consumerfreedom.org
Be ready once they (HSUS) have bought the required number of signatures – we will need your support.
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Growing up on a Farm
I am so grateful that I grew up on a farm (330 acre dairy farm). I learned responsibility and how to work and that the care of the animals came first the majority of the time. HSUS and its’ supporters have no clue of this – farmers do!
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Cows on pasture need more salt in the spring – make sure it is made readily available to them.
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Abraham Lincoln Portends the Future
*You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift.
*You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.
*You cannot help the wage earner by pulling down the wage payer.
*You cannot further the brotherhood of man by encouraging class hatred.
*You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
*You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than you earn.
*You cannot build character and courage by taking away a man’s initiative and independence.
*You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should do for themselves.
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Say What? The Public School System of Los Angeles attempts to teach in approximately one hundred languages. Can you imagine being a student or an employee involved in that inefficient educational quagmire?
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A Glance Back – by Hugh Coffman
In the 1886 Washington County Fair Book George Washington Coffman (father of Fremont Coffman, and grandfather of Clemens - C.D. – Coffman, and my great grandfather) was listed as a fair board member. The 35th annual fair was Sept. 22, 23 and 24 in 1886. There were no fairs from 1860-67 inclusive due to the Civil War. Also, the best exhibit of pond fish brought $3.00 and second place received $2.00.
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Reminder - Sheep and Goats are ruminants (4 stomach compartments) like cattle. 2
Elephant grass in Brazil grows 1 ½ inches per day.
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Teenage Corner
Your conscious mind is your thoughts. Your subconscious mind is made up of everything you have ever read, heard, written, seen or experienced. Fear (worry) destroys recall memory. For tests, the goal is to get the information from your subconscious mind into your conscious mind (your thoughts) so you can recall the information and answer the questions correctly. A few ways to improve your recall memory are to write everything down, think about it and review later, and also audibly record the information so you can hear it over and over. Study more and improve your listening skills. Be present every day. For memorization the best times are before going to bed and when you first get up in the morning. Do not move your lips or tongue while you are reading (that slows you down and decreases comprehension). To break that habit roll your tongue up against the roof of your mouth.
The law of learning is repetitionJ !
The only way to become a better reader is to read – preferably good works including the Bible. Everyone will need to improve their reading (speed and comprehension) in college.
(Satan’s) The 3 biggest lies for teenagers:
“Once won’t hurt.”
“No one will know.”
“Everybody’s doing it.”
Recommended Book for teenage girls: Dear Barbara (1998) - Check Amazon.Com
3
Child Safety Alert
Many years ago a friend told me of the following parental horror story that occurred at King’s Island.
In a very crowded area the couples’ youngest (4 year old) daughter disappeared. In a panic they frantically began to look and fortunately immediately contacted the park authorities.
Imagine the panic as you scoured the area for your possibly abducted daughter. The authorities immediately locked the gates and as the people filed through a single open gate – what signs would you be looking for?
They were instructed to only look at the children’s shoes and ignore everything else as the people passed – seems foolish doesn’t it?
You know your daughter would be upset. You know her clothing and hair. Miraculously they found their daughter thanks to recognizing her shoes. The little girl was drugged (sleeping on her supposed dad’s shoulder), her hair was cut and her clothes changed. Please be careful and alert others.
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Congratulations to the Warren FFA and Advisor Mr. Allen Clark as over 430 parents, members and guests packed the gymnasium at Warren High School on March 13. What a tribute and testimony of the value of Agricultural Education and the FFA. Special recognitions were student achievements, the 50th anniversary of the Warren FFA, and Mr. Clark’s 37 years of exemplarily service, dedication and outstanding instruction.
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APA – AgriBusiness Planning & Analysis (formerly FBPA) is at a cross roads. They are in dire need of funding because the state has cut off funding as of July 1, 2010. The Washington County Career Center will discontinue the program as we know it, and in the near future the program will likely be eliminated. It is a model educational program for farmers. It is current, effective, greatly assists farm families and therefore enhances food production for a starving world. If the program continues the fees farmers pay will escalate forcing more to drop out - Ralph.
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Instructor Marty Clark (APA) is currently working with the Ohio Young Famers Association with hopes of securing some additional funds. If you have any suggestions contact Marty (740-373-6283 Ext. 360).
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Why does the Columbus Dispatch continue to oppose farmers? First they opposed State Issue 2, and now they are attacking the newly appointed Livestock Care Board! Why do they side with HSUS, PETA and their friends?
It appears that they want the board to be composed of those who either oppose, or know nothing about, animal agriculture!
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Soil Testing, pH and Lime
Liming neutralizes acid soil
Liming increases soil bacterial activity and soil tilth
Liming supplies calcium and magnesium
Liming reduces toxic substances
Liming increases plant nutrient availability
A pH of 1 is extremely acid
A pH of 7 (generally ideal) is considered neutral
A pH of 14 is extremely alkaline/base
5
Sole Survivors
If you switch back and forth among three pairs of shoes they will last as long a wearing five pairs sequentially.
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FSA states that land cash rent rates for Ohio counties are now available. Jim Ramey reports that the highest crop land cash rent county is Darke County averaging $146.00 per acre. Clark is 10th at $118.00 and Wood is 20th at $111.00. For pasture the high was Wyandot at $65.00, 11th was Knox at $36.50 and the 20th spot was Jackson County at $29.00 per acre.
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Sometimes when I am watching the news the following thoughts echo in my mind – is this America - Am I dreaming? This can’t be happening. I guess I must be getting old!
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If you know of anyone who might enjoy this newsletter – please let me know. Funding has gone well, and I currently have enough funding to pay for five of the six issues in 2010. --
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“A statement made by the Kansas
Teachers Union in 1892”
“If the study of the Bible is to be excluded from all state schools, if the inculcation of the principles of Christianity is to have no place in the daily program, if the worship of God is to form no part of the general exercises of these public elementary schools, then the good of the state would be better served by restoring all schools to church control.”
6
The Agricultural View “Insert” - May 2010
Witten
FARM MARKET
& Greenhouses
740-984-4009 16670 St. Rt. 60 Lowell, Ohio
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There is a safe and a toxic level of everything. We should talk about concentration first then toxicity. An example is 30 parts per billion is actually .000003%. All the media wants to talk about is toxicity! Regulators have no biological understanding - nor do they seem to have any interest in it. An example is 64% of selenium in our area comes from burning soft coal, and as the government regulates it out we have less sulfur therefore less selenium for plant uptake. Selenium destroys peroxides (fats) therefore less selenium actually harms us. This same regulation also reduces the Thyroxin (T3) content. (Dr. Jack Cline Retired Professor OSU)
*The advertisers in this issue (A-F) support The Agricultural View and the promotion of agriculture, however, they may not necessarily agree with every point of view within the newsletter. Please support them!
The Ohio FFA Alumni Association
If you support the FFA then become a member of the Ohio, or National FFA Alumni Association, by contacting Lexie Poulson at: 1poulson.bright.net or your local Ag. Ed. Teacher. Annual dues are $15.00 & Lifetime dues are $150.00
A
CUT OUT THE MIDDLEMAN
MORE DOLLARS FOR THE FARMERS!
Our packers want your steers and cull cows!
National Farmers Organization
Northeastern OH Jeff Rautseyer 330-749-7793
Southeastern OH Scott Upton 740-517-2577
Western OH Pat Lampert 937-726-2341
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Patriotic Hay
To have a chance to make good hay in Ohio typically you need to make the first cutting near Memorial Day, the second cutting near July 4th and the third cutting around Labor Day. Obviously modern production practices and the weather can significantly affect these timetables. However, regardless of the reason, if the first cutting occurs after mid June the quality/nutrient level progressively declines and a first cutting near July 4 or later would be little more than filler/dry matter for the cattle.
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I refuse to believe that 50% of Americans want the government to take care of and provide for them by taking money from someone else. That is no different than our taking someone’s billfold and taking the money that we want.
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The Cuckoo’s Nest
To better understand the American tyrant within, we look to the character and tactics of the cuckoo bird.
The cuckoo does not build its own nest. Silently, as a thief in the night, it studies the host bird that it intends to deceive and steal its nest. While the marked victim goes about its business, building a
B
nest and preparing to raise a family, the impostor watches from a nearby perch.
Perhaps from the weariness of its labor, or its attention to other matters, the victim relaxes its vigil, and leaves its nest unguarded for a moment too long. On silent wings, the cuckoo moves in, and, undetected, deposits its own egg in the nest, to which it had contributed not one straw.
The host pair stupefied by instinct and deceived by the bandit, begin to warm and care for the alien egg. In time, alongside their own eggs, the cuckoo eggs hatches into a baby chick. The host birds are delighted, deceived into believing it to be their very own. Having stolen surrogate parents and nursemaids, the cuckoo contributes not one morsel to the care of its own offspring. The cuckoo chick, likewise a born thief, is more aggressive and demanding than the native brood; so, the deceived pair feed it more and more, to the neglect of their own.
The cuckoo chick, being a despotic bird, has an innate instinct to push with its head against whatever is near it; and, soon it begins to push the newborn chicks over the edge of their own nest. They fall to the ground and die, one by one. Thus the deceived parents, ignorant of the tyrant within, have destroyed their own posterity.
With the true owners of the nest now dead, the cuckoo has full control. The deceived birds worked feverishly for the cuckoo’s survival and their own extinction. Oh, the power of wicked deceit!
Any Ag.Teaching Openings?
Krista Albright, a former student teacher of mine from The Ohio State University, is looking for a teaching job. I highly and without any reservation, recommend Krista. Contact me for further info.
C
Remember just as cattle need more energy in the winter to stay warm from the cold, and to warm the cold water that they consume, they also need more energy to dissipate heat in warm weather particularly when the temperature reaches 80 degrees or above (factor in humidity). Increase fat content of the feed by 2-3% to balance production.
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State Farm
Coffman Insurance Agcy Inc
Terry Coffman, Agent
426 Third Street
Marietta, Ohio 45750-2101
740-373-6399
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Say What? Awesome OSU!
The Ohio State University’s Presidential Committee assigned to determine the untouchables of the university – the results? The Oval, the Woody Hayes Football Stadium and the Agricultural and Natural Resources Waterman Laboratory.
These three mainstays are to be set in stone so to speak as to the future of these entities. OSU understands the importance of agriculture!
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H & S
CONSTRUCTION, LLC
Scott Hart Joe Schilling
35 Ray Harr Road
Beverly, Ohio 45715
740-984-0203
COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
D
SEAMAN’S
GENERAL MERCHANDISE, INC.
P.O. Box 10 Barlow, Ohio 45712
Served In The Tradition Of Yesterday
Charles F. Seaman
740-678-2450 1-800-428-2450
------------------------------------------------------------------
William D. McFarland
Washington County Auditor
205 Putnam Street
Marietta, Ohio 45750
740-373-6623 Ext. 263 Work
740-374-3304 Residence
bmcfarland@wcgov.org
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Thank you for your financial contributions and kind remarks. This goes to about 400 homes and to many Agricultural Education/FFA departments. Thank you to Farm Credit for assisting with some postage costs.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Please patronize our sponsors and thank them.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Doug Mercer’s surgery went well and he is regaining his strength – thanks for your prayers.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Cass Sustein (America’s Regulatory Czar) has written in his book that animals should have the right to litigate against (sue) humans (via human attorneys)! Anti Farmer PETA and HSUS could not have a better friend in the federal government!
E
Rainbow
International – Restoration & Cleaning Scott J. Hart – Independently Owned
Water/Fire/Smoke Damage Restoration Expert Cleaning
740-350-2047 740-984-2424
24-hour emergency response
35 Ray Harr Road Beverly, Ohio 45715
Insurance claims from start to finish Deodorization, Carpet, upholstery & drapery cleaning, 3M Scotchguard treatment, pet stain & odor removal, tile, grout & hard-surface cleaning
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Getting down to
Agribusiness Register today!
Washington State Community College www.wscc.edu
--------------------------------------------------------
Time is money! Beginning is half done!
--------------------------------------------------------
Edward Jones
Ed Long – Financial Advisor
Making Sense of Investments
Lafayette Center 740-984-5437
468 Pike Street Marietta, Ohio 45750
ed.long@edwardjones.com
F
For past issues, poems and letters simply scroll down and past posts,
Enjoy - Ralph
Sorry the formating is not better.
The Agricultural View
May 2010
http://theagriculturalview.blogspot.com
by Ralph D. Coffman
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The Ohio Livestock Care Board is appointed and ready to get to work as established with Ohio voters passage of State Issue 2 in 2009. However, here comes the Washington D.C. based political machine (Humane Society of the United States) to deny Ohio’s voters utilizing their nearly 100 million dollar annual budget (99% of which does not go to animal shelters)! They and their partners are currently hiring workers to secure the required number of signatures to put their own initiative on the ballot this fall. Their goal is to get a second chance to try to deceive Ohio’s voters and negate the Ohio Livestock Care Board’s constitutional mandate. Why is HSUS having another group masquerade as the lead group?
Check: HumaneWatch.org & consumerfreedom.org
Be ready once they (HSUS) have bought the required number of signatures – we will need your support.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Growing up on a Farm
I am so grateful that I grew up on a farm (330 acre dairy farm). I learned responsibility and how to work and that the care of the animals came first the majority of the time. HSUS and its’ supporters have no clue of this – farmers do!
--------------------------------------------------------
Cows on pasture need more salt in the spring – make sure it is made readily available to them.
1
Abraham Lincoln Portends the Future
*You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift.
*You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.
*You cannot help the wage earner by pulling down the wage payer.
*You cannot further the brotherhood of man by encouraging class hatred.
*You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
*You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than you earn.
*You cannot build character and courage by taking away a man’s initiative and independence.
*You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should do for themselves.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Say What? The Public School System of Los Angeles attempts to teach in approximately one hundred languages. Can you imagine being a student or an employee involved in that inefficient educational quagmire?
----------------------------------------------------------------
A Glance Back – by Hugh Coffman
In the 1886 Washington County Fair Book George Washington Coffman (father of Fremont Coffman, and grandfather of Clemens - C.D. – Coffman, and my great grandfather) was listed as a fair board member. The 35th annual fair was Sept. 22, 23 and 24 in 1886. There were no fairs from 1860-67 inclusive due to the Civil War. Also, the best exhibit of pond fish brought $3.00 and second place received $2.00.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Reminder - Sheep and Goats are ruminants (4 stomach compartments) like cattle. 2
Elephant grass in Brazil grows 1 ½ inches per day.
--------------------------------------------------------------
Teenage Corner
Your conscious mind is your thoughts. Your subconscious mind is made up of everything you have ever read, heard, written, seen or experienced. Fear (worry) destroys recall memory. For tests, the goal is to get the information from your subconscious mind into your conscious mind (your thoughts) so you can recall the information and answer the questions correctly. A few ways to improve your recall memory are to write everything down, think about it and review later, and also audibly record the information so you can hear it over and over. Study more and improve your listening skills. Be present every day. For memorization the best times are before going to bed and when you first get up in the morning. Do not move your lips or tongue while you are reading (that slows you down and decreases comprehension). To break that habit roll your tongue up against the roof of your mouth.
The law of learning is repetitionJ !
The only way to become a better reader is to read – preferably good works including the Bible. Everyone will need to improve their reading (speed and comprehension) in college.
(Satan’s) The 3 biggest lies for teenagers:
“Once won’t hurt.”
“No one will know.”
“Everybody’s doing it.”
Recommended Book for teenage girls: Dear Barbara (1998) - Check Amazon.Com
3
Child Safety Alert
Many years ago a friend told me of the following parental horror story that occurred at King’s Island.
In a very crowded area the couples’ youngest (4 year old) daughter disappeared. In a panic they frantically began to look and fortunately immediately contacted the park authorities.
Imagine the panic as you scoured the area for your possibly abducted daughter. The authorities immediately locked the gates and as the people filed through a single open gate – what signs would you be looking for?
They were instructed to only look at the children’s shoes and ignore everything else as the people passed – seems foolish doesn’t it?
You know your daughter would be upset. You know her clothing and hair. Miraculously they found their daughter thanks to recognizing her shoes. The little girl was drugged (sleeping on her supposed dad’s shoulder), her hair was cut and her clothes changed. Please be careful and alert others.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Congratulations to the Warren FFA and Advisor Mr. Allen Clark as over 430 parents, members and guests packed the gymnasium at Warren High School on March 13. What a tribute and testimony of the value of Agricultural Education and the FFA. Special recognitions were student achievements, the 50th anniversary of the Warren FFA, and Mr. Clark’s 37 years of exemplarily service, dedication and outstanding instruction.
4
APA – AgriBusiness Planning & Analysis (formerly FBPA) is at a cross roads. They are in dire need of funding because the state has cut off funding as of July 1, 2010. The Washington County Career Center will discontinue the program as we know it, and in the near future the program will likely be eliminated. It is a model educational program for farmers. It is current, effective, greatly assists farm families and therefore enhances food production for a starving world. If the program continues the fees farmers pay will escalate forcing more to drop out - Ralph.
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Instructor Marty Clark (APA) is currently working with the Ohio Young Famers Association with hopes of securing some additional funds. If you have any suggestions contact Marty (740-373-6283 Ext. 360).
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Why does the Columbus Dispatch continue to oppose farmers? First they opposed State Issue 2, and now they are attacking the newly appointed Livestock Care Board! Why do they side with HSUS, PETA and their friends?
It appears that they want the board to be composed of those who either oppose, or know nothing about, animal agriculture!
---------------------------------------------------------------
Soil Testing, pH and Lime
Liming neutralizes acid soil
Liming increases soil bacterial activity and soil tilth
Liming supplies calcium and magnesium
Liming reduces toxic substances
Liming increases plant nutrient availability
A pH of 1 is extremely acid
A pH of 7 (generally ideal) is considered neutral
A pH of 14 is extremely alkaline/base
5
Sole Survivors
If you switch back and forth among three pairs of shoes they will last as long a wearing five pairs sequentially.
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FSA states that land cash rent rates for Ohio counties are now available. Jim Ramey reports that the highest crop land cash rent county is Darke County averaging $146.00 per acre. Clark is 10th at $118.00 and Wood is 20th at $111.00. For pasture the high was Wyandot at $65.00, 11th was Knox at $36.50 and the 20th spot was Jackson County at $29.00 per acre.
----------------------------------------------------------
Sometimes when I am watching the news the following thoughts echo in my mind – is this America - Am I dreaming? This can’t be happening. I guess I must be getting old!
----------------------------------------------------------------
If you know of anyone who might enjoy this newsletter – please let me know. Funding has gone well, and I currently have enough funding to pay for five of the six issues in 2010. --
--------------------------------------------------------------
“A statement made by the Kansas
Teachers Union in 1892”
“If the study of the Bible is to be excluded from all state schools, if the inculcation of the principles of Christianity is to have no place in the daily program, if the worship of God is to form no part of the general exercises of these public elementary schools, then the good of the state would be better served by restoring all schools to church control.”
6
The Agricultural View “Insert” - May 2010
Witten
FARM MARKET
& Greenhouses
740-984-4009 16670 St. Rt. 60 Lowell, Ohio
----------------------------------------------------------------
There is a safe and a toxic level of everything. We should talk about concentration first then toxicity. An example is 30 parts per billion is actually .000003%. All the media wants to talk about is toxicity! Regulators have no biological understanding - nor do they seem to have any interest in it. An example is 64% of selenium in our area comes from burning soft coal, and as the government regulates it out we have less sulfur therefore less selenium for plant uptake. Selenium destroys peroxides (fats) therefore less selenium actually harms us. This same regulation also reduces the Thyroxin (T3) content. (Dr. Jack Cline Retired Professor OSU)
*The advertisers in this issue (A-F) support The Agricultural View and the promotion of agriculture, however, they may not necessarily agree with every point of view within the newsletter. Please support them!
The Ohio FFA Alumni Association
If you support the FFA then become a member of the Ohio, or National FFA Alumni Association, by contacting Lexie Poulson at: 1poulson.bright.net or your local Ag. Ed. Teacher. Annual dues are $15.00 & Lifetime dues are $150.00
A
CUT OUT THE MIDDLEMAN
MORE DOLLARS FOR THE FARMERS!
Our packers want your steers and cull cows!
National Farmers Organization
Northeastern OH Jeff Rautseyer 330-749-7793
Southeastern OH Scott Upton 740-517-2577
Western OH Pat Lampert 937-726-2341
-------------------------------------------------------------
Patriotic Hay
To have a chance to make good hay in Ohio typically you need to make the first cutting near Memorial Day, the second cutting near July 4th and the third cutting around Labor Day. Obviously modern production practices and the weather can significantly affect these timetables. However, regardless of the reason, if the first cutting occurs after mid June the quality/nutrient level progressively declines and a first cutting near July 4 or later would be little more than filler/dry matter for the cattle.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
I refuse to believe that 50% of Americans want the government to take care of and provide for them by taking money from someone else. That is no different than our taking someone’s billfold and taking the money that we want.
-------------------------------------------------------------
The Cuckoo’s Nest
To better understand the American tyrant within, we look to the character and tactics of the cuckoo bird.
The cuckoo does not build its own nest. Silently, as a thief in the night, it studies the host bird that it intends to deceive and steal its nest. While the marked victim goes about its business, building a
B
nest and preparing to raise a family, the impostor watches from a nearby perch.
Perhaps from the weariness of its labor, or its attention to other matters, the victim relaxes its vigil, and leaves its nest unguarded for a moment too long. On silent wings, the cuckoo moves in, and, undetected, deposits its own egg in the nest, to which it had contributed not one straw.
The host pair stupefied by instinct and deceived by the bandit, begin to warm and care for the alien egg. In time, alongside their own eggs, the cuckoo eggs hatches into a baby chick. The host birds are delighted, deceived into believing it to be their very own. Having stolen surrogate parents and nursemaids, the cuckoo contributes not one morsel to the care of its own offspring. The cuckoo chick, likewise a born thief, is more aggressive and demanding than the native brood; so, the deceived pair feed it more and more, to the neglect of their own.
The cuckoo chick, being a despotic bird, has an innate instinct to push with its head against whatever is near it; and, soon it begins to push the newborn chicks over the edge of their own nest. They fall to the ground and die, one by one. Thus the deceived parents, ignorant of the tyrant within, have destroyed their own posterity.
With the true owners of the nest now dead, the cuckoo has full control. The deceived birds worked feverishly for the cuckoo’s survival and their own extinction. Oh, the power of wicked deceit!
Any Ag.Teaching Openings?
Krista Albright, a former student teacher of mine from The Ohio State University, is looking for a teaching job. I highly and without any reservation, recommend Krista. Contact me for further info.
C
Remember just as cattle need more energy in the winter to stay warm from the cold, and to warm the cold water that they consume, they also need more energy to dissipate heat in warm weather particularly when the temperature reaches 80 degrees or above (factor in humidity). Increase fat content of the feed by 2-3% to balance production.
----------------------------------------------------------------
State Farm
Coffman Insurance Agcy Inc
Terry Coffman, Agent
426 Third Street
Marietta, Ohio 45750-2101
740-373-6399
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Say What? Awesome OSU!
The Ohio State University’s Presidential Committee assigned to determine the untouchables of the university – the results? The Oval, the Woody Hayes Football Stadium and the Agricultural and Natural Resources Waterman Laboratory.
These three mainstays are to be set in stone so to speak as to the future of these entities. OSU understands the importance of agriculture!
---------------------------------------------------------------
H & S
CONSTRUCTION, LLC
Scott Hart Joe Schilling
35 Ray Harr Road
Beverly, Ohio 45715
740-984-0203
COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
D
SEAMAN’S
GENERAL MERCHANDISE, INC.
P.O. Box 10 Barlow, Ohio 45712
Served In The Tradition Of Yesterday
Charles F. Seaman
740-678-2450 1-800-428-2450
------------------------------------------------------------------
William D. McFarland
Washington County Auditor
205 Putnam Street
Marietta, Ohio 45750
740-373-6623 Ext. 263 Work
740-374-3304 Residence
bmcfarland@wcgov.org
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Thank you for your financial contributions and kind remarks. This goes to about 400 homes and to many Agricultural Education/FFA departments. Thank you to Farm Credit for assisting with some postage costs.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Please patronize our sponsors and thank them.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Doug Mercer’s surgery went well and he is regaining his strength – thanks for your prayers.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Cass Sustein (America’s Regulatory Czar) has written in his book that animals should have the right to litigate against (sue) humans (via human attorneys)! Anti Farmer PETA and HSUS could not have a better friend in the federal government!
E
Rainbow
International – Restoration & Cleaning Scott J. Hart – Independently Owned
Water/Fire/Smoke Damage Restoration Expert Cleaning
740-350-2047 740-984-2424
24-hour emergency response
35 Ray Harr Road Beverly, Ohio 45715
Insurance claims from start to finish Deodorization, Carpet, upholstery & drapery cleaning, 3M Scotchguard treatment, pet stain & odor removal, tile, grout & hard-surface cleaning
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Getting down to
Agribusiness Register today!
Washington State Community College www.wscc.edu
--------------------------------------------------------
Time is money! Beginning is half done!
--------------------------------------------------------
Edward Jones
Ed Long – Financial Advisor
Making Sense of Investments
Lafayette Center 740-984-5437
468 Pike Street Marietta, Ohio 45750
ed.long@edwardjones.com
F
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Welcome to the March Issue of The Agricultural View - Enjoy!
Rember to see the past Issues (2009 a d 2010) scroll down and click on past posts.
The Agricultural View March 2010 Issue 2
HSUS says “NO” to Ohio’s Voters!
The Washington D.C. power-based Humane Society of the United States says no to Ohio’s voters. After Ohioans voted by a two-thirds majority to have an Ohio Livestock Standards Board in 2009, HSUS is coming to Ohio to exert its’ wrath on Ohio’s farmers. The emotional and psychological onslaught we are about to witness will be astounding! While they will claim to be about factory farms and a few select practices, it will actually be an all out attack on family farmers. There will be repeated showing of heinous video clips which will imply that these abuses are common practice in farming. In spite of HSUS’s insinuations to the contrary, these clips are as repulsive to farmers as any other citizen! Remember, 95+ % of HSUS’s money goes to political causes, salaries and attacking animal agriculture. If they succeed then animal agriculture, including family farms, will gradually be further destroyed.
From the View’s Desk I am available to speak to your group on 1
a variety of topics including; agriculture, education, teenagers and America. Thank you for your words of encouragement & financial assistance. http://theagriculturalview.blogspot.com This site has all past issues of the View, my farm letters, poems and bio information. Scroll down and click on past posts when you reach the bottom of each section.
Horses A horse is considered a monogastric, (an animal with one stomach) which is best suited for digesting grain. A horses’ diet, however, is made up primarily of hay (roughage). Generally, roughage is the primary diet of animals with 4 stomach compartments like cattle. Horses primarily utilize their cecum to digest roughage.
Outstanding Teachers The best professors that I had at The Ohio State University were Dr. Jack Cline (Animal Science) and 2nd was Woody Hayes (Coaching H.S. athletics – football). The best teacher I had at Warren High School was Mr. Pearson (Math), and the best teacher I had at Warren Elementary was Mrs. Harold (3rd grade). Each showed that they cared by being thorough, very demanding and motivating. 2
Harvard When Harvard was founded all students were required to: “Let every student be plainly instructed and earnestly pressed to consider well the main end of his life and studies is to know God and Jesus which is eternal life, Joh.17:3, and therefore to lay Christ in the bottom as the only foundation of all sound knowledge and learning.” Also, “Everyone shall so exercise himself in reading the Scriptures twice a day that he shall be ready to give such an account of his proficiency therein.” Today, Harvard is one of the most atheistic promoting institutions in America!
Schools, Education & Calendars Some schools in America have gone to year-round school with three one month breaks. Originally, one key to three months off consecutively in the summer was so the children could work on their family’s farm in the summer. Most parents who experience the year round calendar adjust and prefer it. Most educational decisions today are primarily controlled by factors (liability threats, state regulations, grievance threats and finances) other than the students’ best interests academically.
3
Icicles - Beware! By the time this is mailed, hopefully the weather will be much milder. While knocking down some very large icicles from my house one of them came down and hit me in the mouth opening quite a slit in my upper lip. I did not even see it until it struck me. The same day I had a neighbor show me her bandaged hand where an icicle and fallen and cut the back of her hand. Later that night I had another friend tell me of someone at his work who now wears a patch on his eye as a result of an icicle accident. Please be careful and keep your distance. ------------------------------------------------------
If you could not get food, water or fuel for several days or longer would you be prepared? You never know in today’s world, so be prepared. Additionally, if HSUS ultimately shuts down your dairy, beef, veal, poultry or swine operation what would you and your family do? That is their stated goal! If you support family farmers please stay informed - check often for regular animal rights’ (HSUS etc.) updates at: HumaneWatch.org consumerfreedom.org 4
For cattle it takes 21 days for the rumen to adapt to a dietary change and 60 days to get good rumen activity. -------------------------------------------------
OSU Natural Resources Class & Children One day at OSU in 1969 in my Natural Resources class, the discussion centered on how many children families should be allowed to have. There was a very emotional faction in the class who demanded that we go around the room and have every student state their intentions as to how many children they were planning to have. The professor also supported the exercise. Those students who answered one or no children were supported. Answering two received a negative reaction. If you answered more than 2 you received the wrath (verbal attack) of many. One repeated theme was that in about twenty years Ohio’s land would be completely covered by people, and therefore, to save Ohio, we need to stop having children. I decided that we had four children in our family, which seemed about right, and so I answered four. There were only about three of us who dared answer three or more. I was never big on having others think for me. 5
Land Conservation In the FFA Rural soil conservation judging contest students are required, to determine 5 physical soil characteristics: % Slope, depth of topsoil, texture of the surface soil, depth of soil to any restrictive layers and air and water movement in the subsoil. From these determinations students make recommendations concerning land capability, land use and recommend conservation practices. After judging four different sites, the students then take a written test. --------------------------------------------------------
Please support and thank the View’s sponsors. Also, thank you very much to the other donors and subscribers.
Teenage Corner Children are born with 100% self worth. Studies indicate that overall by the time boys get to high school their self worth drops to the 51% level. Girls self worth falls to the 24% level. This is one reason why high school students, particularly girls, try so hard to please and fit in with their peers. Show your teenagers that you believe in, and really care about, them. Side Note: Junior high girls can be particularly vicious to each other. 6
Rember to see the past Issues (2009 a d 2010) scroll down and click on past posts.
The Agricultural View March 2010 Issue 2
HSUS says “NO” to Ohio’s Voters!
The Washington D.C. power-based Humane Society of the United States says no to Ohio’s voters. After Ohioans voted by a two-thirds majority to have an Ohio Livestock Standards Board in 2009, HSUS is coming to Ohio to exert its’ wrath on Ohio’s farmers. The emotional and psychological onslaught we are about to witness will be astounding! While they will claim to be about factory farms and a few select practices, it will actually be an all out attack on family farmers. There will be repeated showing of heinous video clips which will imply that these abuses are common practice in farming. In spite of HSUS’s insinuations to the contrary, these clips are as repulsive to farmers as any other citizen! Remember, 95+ % of HSUS’s money goes to political causes, salaries and attacking animal agriculture. If they succeed then animal agriculture, including family farms, will gradually be further destroyed.
From the View’s Desk I am available to speak to your group on 1
a variety of topics including; agriculture, education, teenagers and America. Thank you for your words of encouragement & financial assistance. http://theagriculturalview.blogspot.com This site has all past issues of the View, my farm letters, poems and bio information. Scroll down and click on past posts when you reach the bottom of each section.
Horses A horse is considered a monogastric, (an animal with one stomach) which is best suited for digesting grain. A horses’ diet, however, is made up primarily of hay (roughage). Generally, roughage is the primary diet of animals with 4 stomach compartments like cattle. Horses primarily utilize their cecum to digest roughage.
Outstanding Teachers The best professors that I had at The Ohio State University were Dr. Jack Cline (Animal Science) and 2nd was Woody Hayes (Coaching H.S. athletics – football). The best teacher I had at Warren High School was Mr. Pearson (Math), and the best teacher I had at Warren Elementary was Mrs. Harold (3rd grade). Each showed that they cared by being thorough, very demanding and motivating. 2
Harvard When Harvard was founded all students were required to: “Let every student be plainly instructed and earnestly pressed to consider well the main end of his life and studies is to know God and Jesus which is eternal life, Joh.17:3, and therefore to lay Christ in the bottom as the only foundation of all sound knowledge and learning.” Also, “Everyone shall so exercise himself in reading the Scriptures twice a day that he shall be ready to give such an account of his proficiency therein.” Today, Harvard is one of the most atheistic promoting institutions in America!
Schools, Education & Calendars Some schools in America have gone to year-round school with three one month breaks. Originally, one key to three months off consecutively in the summer was so the children could work on their family’s farm in the summer. Most parents who experience the year round calendar adjust and prefer it. Most educational decisions today are primarily controlled by factors (liability threats, state regulations, grievance threats and finances) other than the students’ best interests academically.
3
Icicles - Beware! By the time this is mailed, hopefully the weather will be much milder. While knocking down some very large icicles from my house one of them came down and hit me in the mouth opening quite a slit in my upper lip. I did not even see it until it struck me. The same day I had a neighbor show me her bandaged hand where an icicle and fallen and cut the back of her hand. Later that night I had another friend tell me of someone at his work who now wears a patch on his eye as a result of an icicle accident. Please be careful and keep your distance. ------------------------------------------------------
If you could not get food, water or fuel for several days or longer would you be prepared? You never know in today’s world, so be prepared. Additionally, if HSUS ultimately shuts down your dairy, beef, veal, poultry or swine operation what would you and your family do? That is their stated goal! If you support family farmers please stay informed - check often for regular animal rights’ (HSUS etc.) updates at: HumaneWatch.org consumerfreedom.org 4
For cattle it takes 21 days for the rumen to adapt to a dietary change and 60 days to get good rumen activity. -------------------------------------------------
OSU Natural Resources Class & Children One day at OSU in 1969 in my Natural Resources class, the discussion centered on how many children families should be allowed to have. There was a very emotional faction in the class who demanded that we go around the room and have every student state their intentions as to how many children they were planning to have. The professor also supported the exercise. Those students who answered one or no children were supported. Answering two received a negative reaction. If you answered more than 2 you received the wrath (verbal attack) of many. One repeated theme was that in about twenty years Ohio’s land would be completely covered by people, and therefore, to save Ohio, we need to stop having children. I decided that we had four children in our family, which seemed about right, and so I answered four. There were only about three of us who dared answer three or more. I was never big on having others think for me. 5
Land Conservation In the FFA Rural soil conservation judging contest students are required, to determine 5 physical soil characteristics: % Slope, depth of topsoil, texture of the surface soil, depth of soil to any restrictive layers and air and water movement in the subsoil. From these determinations students make recommendations concerning land capability, land use and recommend conservation practices. After judging four different sites, the students then take a written test. --------------------------------------------------------
Please support and thank the View’s sponsors. Also, thank you very much to the other donors and subscribers.
Teenage Corner Children are born with 100% self worth. Studies indicate that overall by the time boys get to high school their self worth drops to the 51% level. Girls self worth falls to the 24% level. This is one reason why high school students, particularly girls, try so hard to please and fit in with their peers. Show your teenagers that you believe in, and really care about, them. Side Note: Junior high girls can be particularly vicious to each other. 6
Little people like you and me, if our prayers are sometimes granted, beyond all hope and probability, had better not draw hasty conclusions to our own advantage. If we were stronger, we might be less tenderly treated. If we were braver, we might be sent, with far less help, to defend far more desperate posts in the great battle. (C. S. Lewis) -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1940 October Barlow Rural FFA Chapter – The chapter elected the following FFA officers: President - Eugene Trotter, Vice President – Clealon Thompson, Secretary – Irvin Lawton, Treasurer – Lloyd Reed, Reporter – Edward Lawton, Recreational Leader – Loren McGregor, and Adviser J. C. Jenkins. Plans were being made to hold the second annual Corn Husking Contest among the FFA members. They also discussed their trip to Washington D.C. the previous summer. As reported in The Ohio Future Farmer Magazine January 1940 Issue. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under Capitalism men provide for themselves, while under Socialism they are provided for. (Ludwig von Mises) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My dad continues to improve and as of this writing he will be coming home the first week of March – thanks for all of your prayers, visits and concern. His long term memory continues to be good and his short term memory is gradually improving. Also, his physical health and mobility have improved significantly at the Harmar Place in Marietta. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I always tell people that if you want to, or are willing to, offend people and make enemies than become a head coach or an administrator. It comes with those jobs. You just hope you have a reasonable board that does not make decisions based primarily upon emotion and the short term. Also, as a coach and teacher you hope you have administrators who also make carefully thought out decisions. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remember: As production goes up the concentration per unit of weight goes down (Ex. corn, alfalfa, oranges Etc.). We’re getting a little more per acre but the concentration is down so we need vitamins and minerals supplemented. (Dr. Jack Cline – OSU Retired) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please help by sharing this newsletter with others. coffman_ralph@yahoo.com 566 Elk Run Road Beverly, Ohio 45715 (740-984-2567) Any mistakes are all mine - Ralph
Livestock and Mud – as the temperature rises and the mud deepens if livestock have to walk through significant mud they may actually choose to not go to the water trough, therefore reducing production. Walking through mud can increase livestock energy needs by 25-30%.
The following advertisers support The Agricultural View and the promotion of agriculture, however, they may not necessarily agree with every point of view within the newsletter. Please support them.
(The ads below are merely a synopsis of the hardcopy issue ads)
State Farm Insurance
Coffman Insurance Agency Inc Terry Coffman, Agent 740-373-6399 426 Third St. Marietta, Ohio 45750 terrycoffman.caow@statefarm.com
National Farmers Organization
CUT OUT THE MIDDLEMAN MORE DOLLARS FOR THE FARMER! Southeastern Ohio Scott Upton 740-517-2101 Our packers want your steers & cull cows
Witten Farm Market & Greenhouses
16670 State Route 60 Lowell, Ohio 45744 740-984-4009 6006 Grand Central Avenue Parkersburg 304-295-2326 Julie Witten Beverly, Ohio 740-984-2059 Scott Witten 740-984-8018
William D. McFarland
Washington County Auditor 205 Putnam Street Marietta, Ohio 740-373-6623 Ext. 263 bmcfarland@wcgov.org
The Ohio FFA Alumni Association
Become a member of the Ohio FFA Alumni by contacting Lexie Poulson at: 1poulson@bright.net Anyone can join who support of the FFA. Dues $15 annual $150 Lifetime
Getting down to
Agribusiness Register today! Washington State Community College www.wscc.edu
Edward Jones Ed Long - Financial Advisor “Making sense of investing” 740-373-5437 ed.long@edwardjones.com 468 Pike Street Lafayette Center Marietta, Ohio 45750
Seaman’s General Merchandise, INC. Charles F. Seaman P.O. Box 10 Barlow, Ohio 45712 740-678-2450 800-428-2450
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. When you feed your cattle if they do not immediately come to eat you are feeding too much. 2. The difference between eatable and uneatable is about 24 hours (humans too J).
1940 October Barlow Rural FFA Chapter – The chapter elected the following FFA officers: President - Eugene Trotter, Vice President – Clealon Thompson, Secretary – Irvin Lawton, Treasurer – Lloyd Reed, Reporter – Edward Lawton, Recreational Leader – Loren McGregor, and Adviser J. C. Jenkins. Plans were being made to hold the second annual Corn Husking Contest among the FFA members. They also discussed their trip to Washington D.C. the previous summer. As reported in The Ohio Future Farmer Magazine January 1940 Issue. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under Capitalism men provide for themselves, while under Socialism they are provided for. (Ludwig von Mises) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My dad continues to improve and as of this writing he will be coming home the first week of March – thanks for all of your prayers, visits and concern. His long term memory continues to be good and his short term memory is gradually improving. Also, his physical health and mobility have improved significantly at the Harmar Place in Marietta. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I always tell people that if you want to, or are willing to, offend people and make enemies than become a head coach or an administrator. It comes with those jobs. You just hope you have a reasonable board that does not make decisions based primarily upon emotion and the short term. Also, as a coach and teacher you hope you have administrators who also make carefully thought out decisions. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remember: As production goes up the concentration per unit of weight goes down (Ex. corn, alfalfa, oranges Etc.). We’re getting a little more per acre but the concentration is down so we need vitamins and minerals supplemented. (Dr. Jack Cline – OSU Retired) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please help by sharing this newsletter with others. coffman_ralph@yahoo.com 566 Elk Run Road Beverly, Ohio 45715 (740-984-2567) Any mistakes are all mine - Ralph
Livestock and Mud – as the temperature rises and the mud deepens if livestock have to walk through significant mud they may actually choose to not go to the water trough, therefore reducing production. Walking through mud can increase livestock energy needs by 25-30%.
The following advertisers support The Agricultural View and the promotion of agriculture, however, they may not necessarily agree with every point of view within the newsletter. Please support them.
(The ads below are merely a synopsis of the hardcopy issue ads)
State Farm Insurance
Coffman Insurance Agency Inc Terry Coffman, Agent 740-373-6399 426 Third St. Marietta, Ohio 45750 terrycoffman.caow@statefarm.com
National Farmers Organization
CUT OUT THE MIDDLEMAN MORE DOLLARS FOR THE FARMER! Southeastern Ohio Scott Upton 740-517-2101 Our packers want your steers & cull cows
Witten Farm Market & Greenhouses
16670 State Route 60 Lowell, Ohio 45744 740-984-4009 6006 Grand Central Avenue Parkersburg 304-295-2326 Julie Witten Beverly, Ohio 740-984-2059 Scott Witten 740-984-8018
William D. McFarland
Washington County Auditor 205 Putnam Street Marietta, Ohio 740-373-6623 Ext. 263 bmcfarland@wcgov.org
The Ohio FFA Alumni Association
Become a member of the Ohio FFA Alumni by contacting Lexie Poulson at: 1poulson@bright.net Anyone can join who support of the FFA. Dues $15 annual $150 Lifetime
Getting down to
Agribusiness Register today! Washington State Community College www.wscc.edu
Edward Jones Ed Long - Financial Advisor “Making sense of investing” 740-373-5437 ed.long@edwardjones.com 468 Pike Street Lafayette Center Marietta, Ohio 45750
Seaman’s General Merchandise, INC. Charles F. Seaman P.O. Box 10 Barlow, Ohio 45712 740-678-2450 800-428-2450
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. When you feed your cattle if they do not immediately come to eat you are feeding too much. 2. The difference between eatable and uneatable is about 24 hours (humans too J).
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Welcome to the 2010 and Issue 1 (January) of The Agricultural View - Enjoy - Ralph Coffman
If you continue to scroll down..... you can see last year's 6 issues and select agricultural poems as well (posted from 2009). coffman_ralph@yahoo.com
The Agricultural View January 2010 Issue 1
From the View’s Desk
Welcome to year two of the View. I wish to thank those who have made contributions. Please help promote the View by sharing this newsletter with others. Have a great 2010. Any mistakes are all mine – Ralph.
The most neglected nutrient for livestock in the winter is fresh water (water controls feed intake which controls production).
The Waterford FFA Parliamentary Procedure team finishes #1 in Ohio - Congratulations Mr. Hartline and team! Placing first is a monumental accomplishment. Note: Waterford and Warren (Mr. Clark) have been two of the top FFA Parliamentary Procedure teams in Ohio for several years.
FBPA – What’s New? A new name - AgriBusiness Planning & Analysis and working to secure additional funding with the Ohio Young Farmers. 1
Agriculture and FFA Does your local program have a full time annual program with 50 or more days of extended programming? It continues to be a trend in the entire field of agriculture to be whittled away at. I guess food is just too safe, plentiful and overall too cheap. As long as store’s shelves are full of food it seems that nothing will change and that the farmer’s plight will continue. Have farmers simply worked too hard and done too good of a job? I guess so. How many other industries have matched farming’s record of improved efficiency, quality and low costs?
Animal Rights The next time you see a TV commercial featuring movie stars and music that tugs at the heart and pictures of neglected animals enticing you to contribute to HSUS, PETA or another huge multi-million dollar animal rights group - get out your checkbook and write out a check to: Your LOCAL Humane Society (if you want your money to actually help needy animals). 2
A, B, C - I miss! Arnold (Jerry) – I miss my talks with Jerry as he unloaded water at my home. We talked about topics including farming, construction, society’s lack of work ethic and the water table. His wisdom and knowledge was vast and I appreciated the times that I could talk to him. He certainly taught his family the importance of character, working very hard and producing a product of the best quality. Barnett (Ed) – I miss my talks with Ed while riding to county agricultural meetings and in his Ag room. You could count on Ed to be at his best when there were challenges facing the FFA or agriculture. He loved the FFA, agriculture, The Ohio State University and America’s religious and conservative principles. He always talked of his love for his family including two squeezes for I love you. He told me to wear rubber galoshes in the winter, especially when you get older, to keep your feet warm and dry. Combs (Don) – I miss my talks with Don and his huge smile. If he did not see me passing by his house I would honk the horn and once he saw me his smile would beam and literally brighten my day. 3
Don also had enough faith and trust in Alta and I that he (Beverly Citizens Bank) loaned us the money to buy our small home and farm. I also miss his yard signs, belief in good people and the American free enterprise system.
State Issue 2 & HSUS Update 1. Implementation legislation will soon be introduced to provide greater detail as to how the Livestock Care Board will operate. 2. The bill, once introduced, will have hearings over the following few weeks. *HSUS continues to speak publicly about a constitutional ballot measure for 2010. Beyond their public comments there are few other clues that they are indeed preparing to gather signatures. To date no petition language has been cleared by the Secretary of State. Be ready!
A Glance Back – By Hugh Coffman In the early 1800’s one farmer traded 1600 acres of land for a purebred Marino ram. By 1820 hard times for farmers prevailed because there was low demand for their produce (does that sound familiar?). 4
Teenage Corner Teenagers have a need to feel needed. If they do not feel needed in their family they will fill that void elsewhere. I use to tell my students that I had great respect and admiration for them because I could have never dealt with all of the challenges that they face today. The pressure that a significant number of students feel in school between academic and extracurricular demands is, at times, monumental. An excellent obstacles, goals and rewards story is 1st Samuel 17 (David & Goliath).
Student Classroom Greeting As a teacher I always greeted my students daily at the door with a firm handshake, eye contact and a verbal greeting. I knew immediately where they were at mentally that day. The handshake was also great training for future job interviews.
Winston Churchill “Some people regard private enterprise as a cow they can milk. Not enough people see it as a healthy horse, pulling a sturdy wagon.” 5
Wind Chill and Livestock For each 10 degree F drop in the temperature below 30 degrees the wind chill can cause a significant increase in the livestock’s energy needs. The livestock needs to be able to get out of the wind whether that is in a barn or in low areas (valleys) of the field. Even in near zero temperatures if the temperature in the barn is at least 10 degrees warmer then outside temperature that generally is sufficient. Protection from the wind is key as well as the increased energy needs (especially if they are lactating). Livestock can handle low temperatures but not low temperatures with much wind. Side Note: In the most frigid areas of the earth Eskimos have to put snow in their mouth before entering their ice caves so their teeth will not crack. They also build their ice caves with the opening near a tree so when they get buried by several feet of snow they will know where to dig to go outside – up the tree. ---------------------------------------------------------
Ohio’s % of Land Covered by Trees According to Dr. Jack Cline (Retired OSU Professor as stated in April of 1997)): 1788-90% 1900-17% 1940-13% 1997-34% 6
If you continue to scroll down..... you can see last year's 6 issues and select agricultural poems as well (posted from 2009). coffman_ralph@yahoo.com
The Agricultural View January 2010 Issue 1
From the View’s Desk
Welcome to year two of the View. I wish to thank those who have made contributions. Please help promote the View by sharing this newsletter with others. Have a great 2010. Any mistakes are all mine – Ralph.
The most neglected nutrient for livestock in the winter is fresh water (water controls feed intake which controls production).
The Waterford FFA Parliamentary Procedure team finishes #1 in Ohio - Congratulations Mr. Hartline and team! Placing first is a monumental accomplishment. Note: Waterford and Warren (Mr. Clark) have been two of the top FFA Parliamentary Procedure teams in Ohio for several years.
FBPA – What’s New? A new name - AgriBusiness Planning & Analysis and working to secure additional funding with the Ohio Young Farmers. 1
Agriculture and FFA Does your local program have a full time annual program with 50 or more days of extended programming? It continues to be a trend in the entire field of agriculture to be whittled away at. I guess food is just too safe, plentiful and overall too cheap. As long as store’s shelves are full of food it seems that nothing will change and that the farmer’s plight will continue. Have farmers simply worked too hard and done too good of a job? I guess so. How many other industries have matched farming’s record of improved efficiency, quality and low costs?
Animal Rights The next time you see a TV commercial featuring movie stars and music that tugs at the heart and pictures of neglected animals enticing you to contribute to HSUS, PETA or another huge multi-million dollar animal rights group - get out your checkbook and write out a check to: Your LOCAL Humane Society (if you want your money to actually help needy animals). 2
A, B, C - I miss! Arnold (Jerry) – I miss my talks with Jerry as he unloaded water at my home. We talked about topics including farming, construction, society’s lack of work ethic and the water table. His wisdom and knowledge was vast and I appreciated the times that I could talk to him. He certainly taught his family the importance of character, working very hard and producing a product of the best quality. Barnett (Ed) – I miss my talks with Ed while riding to county agricultural meetings and in his Ag room. You could count on Ed to be at his best when there were challenges facing the FFA or agriculture. He loved the FFA, agriculture, The Ohio State University and America’s religious and conservative principles. He always talked of his love for his family including two squeezes for I love you. He told me to wear rubber galoshes in the winter, especially when you get older, to keep your feet warm and dry. Combs (Don) – I miss my talks with Don and his huge smile. If he did not see me passing by his house I would honk the horn and once he saw me his smile would beam and literally brighten my day. 3
Don also had enough faith and trust in Alta and I that he (Beverly Citizens Bank) loaned us the money to buy our small home and farm. I also miss his yard signs, belief in good people and the American free enterprise system.
State Issue 2 & HSUS Update 1. Implementation legislation will soon be introduced to provide greater detail as to how the Livestock Care Board will operate. 2. The bill, once introduced, will have hearings over the following few weeks. *HSUS continues to speak publicly about a constitutional ballot measure for 2010. Beyond their public comments there are few other clues that they are indeed preparing to gather signatures. To date no petition language has been cleared by the Secretary of State. Be ready!
A Glance Back – By Hugh Coffman In the early 1800’s one farmer traded 1600 acres of land for a purebred Marino ram. By 1820 hard times for farmers prevailed because there was low demand for their produce (does that sound familiar?). 4
Teenage Corner Teenagers have a need to feel needed. If they do not feel needed in their family they will fill that void elsewhere. I use to tell my students that I had great respect and admiration for them because I could have never dealt with all of the challenges that they face today. The pressure that a significant number of students feel in school between academic and extracurricular demands is, at times, monumental. An excellent obstacles, goals and rewards story is 1st Samuel 17 (David & Goliath).
Student Classroom Greeting As a teacher I always greeted my students daily at the door with a firm handshake, eye contact and a verbal greeting. I knew immediately where they were at mentally that day. The handshake was also great training for future job interviews.
Winston Churchill “Some people regard private enterprise as a cow they can milk. Not enough people see it as a healthy horse, pulling a sturdy wagon.” 5
Wind Chill and Livestock For each 10 degree F drop in the temperature below 30 degrees the wind chill can cause a significant increase in the livestock’s energy needs. The livestock needs to be able to get out of the wind whether that is in a barn or in low areas (valleys) of the field. Even in near zero temperatures if the temperature in the barn is at least 10 degrees warmer then outside temperature that generally is sufficient. Protection from the wind is key as well as the increased energy needs (especially if they are lactating). Livestock can handle low temperatures but not low temperatures with much wind. Side Note: In the most frigid areas of the earth Eskimos have to put snow in their mouth before entering their ice caves so their teeth will not crack. They also build their ice caves with the opening near a tree so when they get buried by several feet of snow they will know where to dig to go outside – up the tree. ---------------------------------------------------------
Ohio’s % of Land Covered by Trees According to Dr. Jack Cline (Retired OSU Professor as stated in April of 1997)): 1788-90% 1900-17% 1940-13% 1997-34% 6
If you wish to donate or subscribe to assist with the expenses of producing The Agricultural View make your check payable to the View and mail to: Ralph D. Coffman 566 Elk Run Road Beverly, Ohio 45715 If you wish to put an ad (5 issues for $42.00) call 740-984-2567 or e-mail: coffman_ralph@yahoo.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Fertilizer Bags The (3) numbers represent: Ex. 19 – 19 – 19 The first number is the % Nitrogen, the second % Phosphorus and the third % (K) Potassium in the bag. Total the three and that is the actual % of fertilizer in the bag. The remaining % is filler. Filler is needed to help spread the fertilizer more evenly and to dilute the nutrients so they can be utilized most effectively. Soil Tests are crucial. The results are only as good (many core samples carefully dried, mixed thoroughly and kept free of impurities) as the samples that you take and send to be tested. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A synopsis of my experiences with the “1970 Riots” at The Ohio State University (Spring 1970) As I attended classes I initially noticed a couple of protesters on the steps of class buildings who were shouting, “Come on strike shut it down!” The next week the numbers on the steps increased- as did their rhetoric. The following week the numbers continued to increase. I also began to notice a small but significant number of a foreign element (non students) who gradually began to appear around campus. Eventually these groups amassed and physically prevented anyone from attending classes. An example of the foreign element was on our street on south campus where my roommates and I lived. We began to notice two guys in the neighborhood who stood out because one occasionally carried a spear (a metal pole about 5 feet long with a point on one end) and they were definitely not students. Within about a week these two guys mysteriously took up residence in the basement of our rental house (our apartment was on the first floor). We discovered that a guy in the second floor apartment had invited them to live in the apartment’s basement. One night about a week later my roommate, who was making a phone call, was startled when there was someone on our phone - we had a private line! He concluded that the guys in our basement had tapped into our phone line and he contacted our Landlord. Together they confronted the two which resulted in an apology with the assurance that they had only made local calls and they would immediately disconnect their phone. They soon vanished, and we never saw them again. When we received that month’s phone bill a month later it was over $125.00 - which was huge in 1970 (our bill was generally about $12.00). Listed on our bill included calls that they had made to many of the major cities in America where the riots were the most violent! Why were they making phone calls and I wonder who might they have been calling? Things had gotten so bad that we were eventually instructed to not wear our (Air Force) ROTC uniforms because it was too dangerous. Also, I witnessed some rioters single out the youngest and smallest National Guard members and get right up in their face and yell and scream at them trying to get them to react (break rank). There were other vicious verbal assaults as well and they were particularly amused when tears would run down the cheeks of the singled out targets. Also, they would run up to them (feign) like they were going to punch them then pull off at the last second. Roads, buildings and offices were blocked. Office takeover, looting, setting of fires and overturning vehicles were also well documented. Even today I continue to be amused, and at times angered, when I see reports summarize those riots as being led by good people, about personal freedom, and that universities were significantly improved.
The following advertisers support The Agricultural View and the promotion of agriculture, however, they may not necessarily agree with every point of view within the newsletter. Please support them.
(The 5 ads below are merely a synopsis of the hardcopy issue ads)
State Farm Insurance
Coffman Insurance Agency Inc Terry Coffman, Agent 740-373-6399 426 Third St. Marietta, Ohio 45750 terrycoffman.caow@statefarm.com
National Farmers Organization
CUT OUT THE MIDDLEMAN MORE DOLLARS FOR THE FARMER! Southeastern Ohio Scott Upton 740-517-2101 Our packers want your steers & cull cows
Witten Farm Market & Greenhouses
16670 State Route 60 Lowell, Ohio 45744 740-984-4009 6006 Grand Central Avenue Parkersburg 304-295-2326 Julie Witten Beverly, Ohio 740-984-2059 Scott Witten 740-984-8018
William D. McFarland
Washington County Auditor 205 Putnam Street Marietta, Ohio 740-373-6623 Ext. 263 bmcfarland@wcgov.org
The Ohio FFA Alumni Association
Become a member of the Ohio FFA Alumni by contacting Lexie Poulson at: 1poulson@bright.net Anyone can join who support of the FFA. Dues $15 annual $150 Lifetime
80% of livestock’s feed intake is for maintenance. Additional nutrients are needed for: growth, pregnancy, milk production, fighting the elements (cold wind, mud, heat & humidity) and poor health. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“Once again, I wish to thank the following who advertised in 2009 for their support - thank youJ” Stacy Family Farm Agribusiness - Washington State Community College Florida Farm Bureau Vlasak Performance Doctors Riestenberg/Lavelle/Welsh D.D.S. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A health update on my dad: On 12/27 my dad (who is 80 and had very rarely been sick in his life, hardly ever took an aspirin, and had only spent two days in the hospital in his life) went to the emergency room with lower stomach pains. He had also been more tired than usual for a couple of weeks. Up to that point he had worked several hours a day on the farm. On 1/1/2010, while having lithotripsy to break up kidney stones, his heart stopped for 21 minutes, and he was flown to Riverside Hospital in Columbus where his condition was called “grim.” After a few heartbreaks and many miracles dad will come home for a trial run 1/29 to see if he is able to live at home. His long term memory is quite good, however, his short term memory is not so good but gradual progress continues. He can now walk with some assistance and is determined to get back to the barn. Two of his nurses are former students of mine at Fort FryeJ. Dad’s nurses comment that he is nice even when he is frustrated. Prayers are appreciated. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please notify me of any mistakes or omissions as I have received a lot of mail the past six weeks & after spending many days and nights in the hospital (with my father) many of those days have been somewhat of a blur - Ralph. 740-984-2567 coffman_ralph@yahoo.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Fertilizer Bags The (3) numbers represent: Ex. 19 – 19 – 19 The first number is the % Nitrogen, the second % Phosphorus and the third % (K) Potassium in the bag. Total the three and that is the actual % of fertilizer in the bag. The remaining % is filler. Filler is needed to help spread the fertilizer more evenly and to dilute the nutrients so they can be utilized most effectively. Soil Tests are crucial. The results are only as good (many core samples carefully dried, mixed thoroughly and kept free of impurities) as the samples that you take and send to be tested. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A synopsis of my experiences with the “1970 Riots” at The Ohio State University (Spring 1970) As I attended classes I initially noticed a couple of protesters on the steps of class buildings who were shouting, “Come on strike shut it down!” The next week the numbers on the steps increased- as did their rhetoric. The following week the numbers continued to increase. I also began to notice a small but significant number of a foreign element (non students) who gradually began to appear around campus. Eventually these groups amassed and physically prevented anyone from attending classes. An example of the foreign element was on our street on south campus where my roommates and I lived. We began to notice two guys in the neighborhood who stood out because one occasionally carried a spear (a metal pole about 5 feet long with a point on one end) and they were definitely not students. Within about a week these two guys mysteriously took up residence in the basement of our rental house (our apartment was on the first floor). We discovered that a guy in the second floor apartment had invited them to live in the apartment’s basement. One night about a week later my roommate, who was making a phone call, was startled when there was someone on our phone - we had a private line! He concluded that the guys in our basement had tapped into our phone line and he contacted our Landlord. Together they confronted the two which resulted in an apology with the assurance that they had only made local calls and they would immediately disconnect their phone. They soon vanished, and we never saw them again. When we received that month’s phone bill a month later it was over $125.00 - which was huge in 1970 (our bill was generally about $12.00). Listed on our bill included calls that they had made to many of the major cities in America where the riots were the most violent! Why were they making phone calls and I wonder who might they have been calling? Things had gotten so bad that we were eventually instructed to not wear our (Air Force) ROTC uniforms because it was too dangerous. Also, I witnessed some rioters single out the youngest and smallest National Guard members and get right up in their face and yell and scream at them trying to get them to react (break rank). There were other vicious verbal assaults as well and they were particularly amused when tears would run down the cheeks of the singled out targets. Also, they would run up to them (feign) like they were going to punch them then pull off at the last second. Roads, buildings and offices were blocked. Office takeover, looting, setting of fires and overturning vehicles were also well documented. Even today I continue to be amused, and at times angered, when I see reports summarize those riots as being led by good people, about personal freedom, and that universities were significantly improved.
The following advertisers support The Agricultural View and the promotion of agriculture, however, they may not necessarily agree with every point of view within the newsletter. Please support them.
(The 5 ads below are merely a synopsis of the hardcopy issue ads)
State Farm Insurance
Coffman Insurance Agency Inc Terry Coffman, Agent 740-373-6399 426 Third St. Marietta, Ohio 45750 terrycoffman.caow@statefarm.com
National Farmers Organization
CUT OUT THE MIDDLEMAN MORE DOLLARS FOR THE FARMER! Southeastern Ohio Scott Upton 740-517-2101 Our packers want your steers & cull cows
Witten Farm Market & Greenhouses
16670 State Route 60 Lowell, Ohio 45744 740-984-4009 6006 Grand Central Avenue Parkersburg 304-295-2326 Julie Witten Beverly, Ohio 740-984-2059 Scott Witten 740-984-8018
William D. McFarland
Washington County Auditor 205 Putnam Street Marietta, Ohio 740-373-6623 Ext. 263 bmcfarland@wcgov.org
The Ohio FFA Alumni Association
Become a member of the Ohio FFA Alumni by contacting Lexie Poulson at: 1poulson@bright.net Anyone can join who support of the FFA. Dues $15 annual $150 Lifetime
80% of livestock’s feed intake is for maintenance. Additional nutrients are needed for: growth, pregnancy, milk production, fighting the elements (cold wind, mud, heat & humidity) and poor health. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“Once again, I wish to thank the following who advertised in 2009 for their support - thank youJ” Stacy Family Farm Agribusiness - Washington State Community College Florida Farm Bureau Vlasak Performance Doctors Riestenberg/Lavelle/Welsh D.D.S. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A health update on my dad: On 12/27 my dad (who is 80 and had very rarely been sick in his life, hardly ever took an aspirin, and had only spent two days in the hospital in his life) went to the emergency room with lower stomach pains. He had also been more tired than usual for a couple of weeks. Up to that point he had worked several hours a day on the farm. On 1/1/2010, while having lithotripsy to break up kidney stones, his heart stopped for 21 minutes, and he was flown to Riverside Hospital in Columbus where his condition was called “grim.” After a few heartbreaks and many miracles dad will come home for a trial run 1/29 to see if he is able to live at home. His long term memory is quite good, however, his short term memory is not so good but gradual progress continues. He can now walk with some assistance and is determined to get back to the barn. Two of his nurses are former students of mine at Fort FryeJ. Dad’s nurses comment that he is nice even when he is frustrated. Prayers are appreciated. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please notify me of any mistakes or omissions as I have received a lot of mail the past six weeks & after spending many days and nights in the hospital (with my father) many of those days have been somewhat of a blur - Ralph. 740-984-2567 coffman_ralph@yahoo.com
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