No Till Notes: 'Joe Franks Memorial'

I want to start off by wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

A few weeks ago Stateline Producers awarded me the Joe Franks Memorial Achievement Award.  Stateline Producers gave me a very nice plaque which I have hanging on the wall next to my desk.  I’m looking at this award as I’m writing this article.  I’m also spending a little time at my desk just reflecting back on my efforts in agriculture and our rural way of life over the years.

Unfortunately I didn’t know Joe Franks.  I suspect Mr. Franks was just like the majority of us here in western Nebraska.  Joe got out of bed each day and tried to find ways to make his farm and his community a better place to be.

Most of us in production agriculture work on the land that has been handed down to us for multiple generations.  Each generation has strived to make the most out of the opportunities we’ve been given from previous generations so we can pass our heritage on to the next generation.

The pioneering spirit that started this process still lives in each of us.  Our commitment to the land, our families, neighbors, and communities lives on and is passed down through the generations.  We all get out of bed each day and try to make our farms, ranches, and communities a better place to live.     

Everyone in our rural communities has a hand in making our communities a better place to live.  Our communities would not be what they are without all the volunteers who serve on numerous committees, boards, and councils with the sole purpose of making our communities a better place to live. 

To be singled out and recognized for my efforts in improving our way of life here in western Nebraska is very humbling and satisfying.  I really think all of us should be recognized for the lifelong commitments we have made to improve the quality of life in our communities.

As I reflect back over the past years of living and working here in western Nebraska I realize how blessed I have been to have been a part of our great heritage.  There’s nowhere else I’d rather be than in rural Nebraska.  Like our state slogan proclaims, “There is no place like Nebraska”.  I would like to wish all of you who make our lives so special here in western Nebraska a safe and happy holiday season.