COMMENTARY-Are prices at new plateau?

Written by Daryll E. Ray Wednesday, 17 October 2007 11:31

Over the past year as corn prices, followed by those of soybeans and wheat, have risen to levels only dreamed of a couple of years ago, we have increasingly heard discussion about farm commodity prices reaching a new plateau.

A recent article in the Kansas City Star by Wall Street Journal reporter Scott Kilman captures this perspective with the title, “The days of cheap grain are gone, according to agriculture experts” (www.kansascity.com/ business/story/295686.html).

Kilman quotes Dan Basse, president of AgResource Co., a Chicago commodity forecasting concern, as saying, “The days of cheap grain are gone.”

Kilman writes: “In the past…increases have been caused by temporary supply disruptions. After a poor harvest...

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Holub defends county’s action in salvage-yard decision

Written by Jerry Engler Wednesday, 17 October 2007 11:27

Commissioner Dan Holub said Monday at the Marion County Commission Meeting that he’s had several phone calls accusing commissioners of picking on salvage yards.

The truth is, Holub said, that county governance of salvage yards results from state guidelines. He explained that the state issues permits to salvage yards to operate, but requires the yards to get conditional-use permits from the counties in which the yards operate.

Holub said the county doesn’t have a problem with salvage yards if they are well-kept, without pest problems, keep to their own boundaries and screen the property.

The conditional-use permits first are approved by the County Planning and Zoning Commission, and then by the County Commission.

As a case in...

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Goessel school board hears of students' state-assessment awards

Written by Cynthia Goerzen Wednesday, 17 October 2007 11:21

The Goessel school board heard about state assessment test results at its Oct. 8 meeting.

John Fast, superintendent and K-5 principal, said the tests were taken in spring. The students in grades four, five, seven, eight and 11 attained the standard of excellence in both reading and math.

Grade three attained the standard of excellence in math.

Fast said the district achieved a total of 11 standard of excellence results.

“That’s phenomenal,” said Marc Grout, junior/senior high principal.

“Both buildings qualified for the building-wide standard of excellence,” Fast added. “I do not have figures yet to see how this compares to the state.... The high school received the Governor’s Achievement Award last year.”

Fast...

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Plans set for Ramona's Scarecrows on Parade

Written by Hillsboro Free Press Wednesday, 17 October 2007 11:19

Scarecrows on Parade can be viewed in Ramona beginning Oct. 20. These unusual works of art are on display through Halloween, wind and weather permitting.

On Ramona’s main street is the Sunflower Maiden. Not far away, in front of the Senior Center, is the Bride and Broom—a collection of scarecrows made out of brooms to resemble a bridal party. Further down the street, Tony Meyer’s scarecrow is mowing his lawn. The Cousin’s Corner Bed & Break­fast has cousins playing badminton in the yard. The Misfortunate Biker—the one who collided with a tree—can be found on E Street. On B Street, Jakie Brunner is sporting new overalls as he hangs on his ladder to clean the eves.

This is just a sampling of the scarecrows found in Ramona....

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