Farmers recognized at monthly meeting

SIKESTON -- The monthly Sikeston Area Chamber of Commerce meeting Thursday had all the regulars --members and their guests representing businesses from the Sikeston community.

But, there was also a large representation of the agricultural community, including the Sikeston High School FFA members, at the meeting which included the annual Farmers Recognition Banquet.

Four awards were presented: the Farm Family of the Year, Farm Woman of the Year, Sikeston Jaycee Outstanding Young Farmer and the Agri-Business Award.

Mike Marshall, mayor of Sikeston as well as the chairman of the agriculture committee for the Chamber, spoke of agriculture as a global industry.

"Everyone in this room is involved in agriculture - either directly or indirectly - said Marshall.

Citing the Confucius quote "may we live in interesting times," Marshall pointed out that now is a very interesting time for farming. He also noted that there are currently record prices for some crops, in addition to record yields in the area, especially for the corn crop.

Sikeston' location is key to agricultural advances, Marshall continued. "I think we take our area for granted in many ways," he said. "Here in the Bootheel, we are living in probably the best part of the world for farming."

For instance, although the weather is cold, that helps keep insects and bugs away, he pointed out. But, it's still warm enough for the nearby ports to be ice-free. In this area, farmers can get quality water for irrigation without digging too deep; and are near the river.

He pointed out that there are all sorts of crops and livestock within a 30 mile radius as well.

Recognized at the banquet as the Farm Family of the Year was the Andrew Ambrose family, with operations just southeast of Sikeston.

Although Ambrose knew of his award since the end of December, it was a shock for the other three award recipients.

Joyce Lawfield of New Madrid County, was named the Farm Woman of the Year. Lawfield was recognized for developing FarmNotes.com, a book and CD that is used to help farmers keep better paperwork.

Recognized as the Sikeston Jaycee Outstanding Young Farmer was Jason Wheeler. Patrick Douglas, who presented the award on behalf of the Jaycees pointed out, the average age of farmers is in the mid-50s, so young farmers are vital to keeping the industry alive.

Finally, the Agri-Business Service Award was awarded to Rickey Dale "R.D." James of New Madrid.