At the Podium Last Week: September 23, 2015

We welcomed Jim's cousin, agronomist Rob Fritz as our speaker. Rob works for Hefty Seeds in Baltic, South Dakota. In addition to seed sales, Hefty is a leader in providing information, analysis, and technology to farmers.  Rob's talk explored some of the frequently told myths related to farming, including concerns about tiling, fertilizer use, and biotechnology. He educated us on some currently available precision farming technologies to micro-manage crop plots. For example, using plant tissue analysis, farmers can determine exactly where within their field they need to adjust nutrient loads. Then planters guided by GPS can be programmed to optimize seed choice and delivery relative to soil pH and nutrient levels. He explained some of the many uses of biotechnology in medicine as well as the food supply and food processing. Thanks for the education!

 

Jim Houg's vocational was short and sweet:

1. He's been married to Susan for 30 years. 2. He has a 30 year old son. 3. He has a 27 year old daughter. 

 

Bob Shadley gave the invocation and included a blessing of two blue blankets emblazoned with the Rotary wheel. The blankets are gifts and symbols of support to members David Davenport and Charlie Marvin.