Glenn Brunkow

This week is July 4th. Celebrating the Fourth of July is a big deal in my hometown. We have a huge parade and one of the biggest fireworks show anywhere in the United States. We do the Fourth right. Therefore, the Fourth has always been important to me. Not only is it a celebration of our nation's birth, but it is a time to see old friends and take a break from the spring and summer grind.

I admit it, I am a political junkie, and I have not been able to stop listening to the radio, watching the TV or reading about recent events, all of

I don't know about the rest of you, but it seems like every time I turn around I am hit with news that really makes me wonder about our world.

One of the things I enjoy most about agriculture is the ability of farmers and ranchers to work together on projects large and small. At times we’re competitors seeking a good deal at an auction or to rent land to expand. But we’re also neighbors and don’t hesitate to interrupt our work to help someone down the road if asked.

The value of abundance

I wish I could be more analytical when it comes to my animals. I would like to think that I evaluate livestock well enough, especially other peoples', but when it comes to mine, I often get accused of being too sentimental.

I am sitting here the morning after the elections reveling in my re-election. Yes, I successfully navigated this tumultuous election season and was re-elected trustee for Union Township. It was a bruising, tough battle but never did I revert to name calling or negative campaigning.

It's Thanksgiving week. I guess it is, anyway, because judging by all the Christmas stuff up in the stores we jumped right over Thanksgiving and are into the Christmas season.

We farmers are never happy. I delayed planting my rye because the ground was so hard and dry.

We are in a season that should be one of the most joy filled, happy times of the year.