The spring issue of the Custom News is here!

In this issue:

• Feature: Suicide: another pandemic
• WCO elections
• Feature: What's new in mergers
• WCO scholarship winners; applications due May 1

By Mary Hookham for WCO

The rate of death by suicide increases every year in the farming community, a rate that could be reduced if there was more hope. People can offer that hope to one another through positive, kind actions, and by becoming trained in the Question, Persuade and Refer concept.

“Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem,” said Jeff Ditzenberger, a certified QPR trainer. “Giving someone in trouble your time and attention might make all the difference and restore hope.

Hay mergers come in a variety of shapes and sizes from several different companies. Farmers can find features and benefits that will best serve their needs while improving efficiency.

“Serviceability is a big thing on hay mergers,” said Ben Craker, senior product manager with Kuhn North America. 

The Wisconsin Custom Operators, Inc. (WCO) recently awarded two scholarships to students pursuing further education. These students were selected based on leadership, civic engagement, academics and volunteer activities related to agriculture. Students also submitted essays detailing their educational and vocational plans for the future. Scholarship winners are required to have ties to the WCO – either as a member, relative of a member or employee of a member. Students received a $1,000 or $1,500 scholarship. 
 

Wisconsin Custom Operators members elected two directors and new officers during the group’s annual business meeting held virtually on Jan. 27.
 
William Smith, owner of Smith Custom Farming LLC in Darlington and Pat Johnson, co-owner of Number 2 Injection LLC were elected as operator directors. Smith was re-elected to a second term and Johnson is a new addition to the WCO board.