 Printer Friendly version  Plain text version |
15 easy questions
What was your first job?
My first job was on road construction. I worked on a stretch of highway in between Watersmeet and Marenisco. My first job in agriculture other than the farm was as a dry bean trader for Michigan Elevator Exchange, a division of Farm Bureau Services.
What kind of tractor(s) do you own?
Actually, I do have tractors. I have four old Farmalls, one of which is being restored by a good Farm Bureau family in the U.P., Dennis and Dianne Hanson.
Who had the greatest influence on your life and/or career?
Ed Powell who was the general manager of Michigan Elevator Exchange when I was hired as a bean trader. Ed is a man of integrity, good work ethic and taught young employees how to treat customers.
What's the most rewarding part of your job?
Attending meetings and functions with farmers not only from Michigan but from around the country. Farmers represent a wealth of information and knowledge that can't be found anywhere in the world. Larry Young introduced me to the National Potato Council. I find the friendships and contacts made there to be extremely rewarding.
Which do you prefer: hunting or fishing?
Hunting - small game only. I gave up deer hunting years ago and quite frankly don't miss it. I really enjoy hunting at the places where I grew up in Iron County and fortunately I am able to hunt on the same farm as I did when growing up.
Which do you prefer: a day hauling manure or a day doing paperwork?
I spent a lot of time on a tractor pulling a wheel-driven manure spreader. I would not trade my time on the farm for anything, but the opportunity to work for potato growers is the greatest experience of my life.
Which smells better: newly-cut alfalfa or freshly-brewed coffee?
No question fresh cut hay no matter what type. One whiff and I am back on the old C tractor (now converted to a lawn mower thanks to another good FB member, Jon Haindl)
What one issue/event will best help farmers thrive in the next year?
Farmers have been going through a consolidation period that has never been experienced before. Our customers have gone through the same. And all along the line costs have been squeezed out of the food system. Many farmers are now working on their equity. Potato growers must pay close attention to the formation of United Fresh Potato Growers of Idaho. They are attempting to redefine potato marketing.
Which do you prefer: Holsteins or Jerseys?
Actually we had Guernsey on the farm before my folks made the shift to Holstein. I do not have a preference but always do a double take when I see red or brown dairy cows
Name your favorite weather cliche' or saying?
Good question, I keep a list of "statements to live by." There currently are over 100 statements on the list.
A few that seem to fit just now are:
- Success seems largely a matter of hanging on after others have let go.
- Sometime it pays to mend other people's fences.
- Lead, follow or get out of the way
The last one seems a little arrogant but if applied in the correct frame of mind it always keeps you positioned properly.
Which do you prefer: A sizzling-hot steak or an ice-cold beer?
I would have to go for the steak.
If you could choose one of only two professions for your child, would it be a farmer or a lawyer?
At this time farming is a challenging occupation for both the old and the young. It is very hard to send a young person in the direction of farming.
Which do you prefer: a baseball cap or a cowboy hat?
Baseball
Have you ever dozed off in a meeting?
Yes
What's your favorite television show? (current or from the past)?
I really enjoyed the humor of Northern Exposure. I also like Orange County Chopper. However, am usually exiled from the family room if it is on for more than two minutes.
| Printer Friendly version Plain text version |
