·         Brian and Stephanie Perkins, Richland Center, sponsored by Richland County OYF

·         Laura Daniels & Jarred Searls, Cobb

·         Adam and Becky Kuczer, Pulaski, sponsored by Shawano County OYF

·         Ryan and Cheri Klussendorf, Medford, sponsored by Wisconsin School for Beginning Dairy and Livestock Farmers

·         David and Kathleen Hafemeister, Hustisford, sponsored by Watertown Area OYF and M&I, a part of BMO Financial Group.

·         Troy and Ashley Schlender, sponsored by Watertown Area OYF and M&I , a part of BMO Financial Group.

·         Sander and Amy Penterman, sponsored by Clark County UWEX

·         Todd Thieding, Loganville, sponsored by Reedsburg Jaycees OYF

·         David and Staci Marvin, Hillsdale, sponsored by Barron Co. Ag Promoters

 

The OYF candidates are sponsored to the state event by local Jaycee chapters or other agricultural groups; where confirmed, sponsors are listed above. Sponsors can still contribute to the overall event or a specific candidate. The public is invited to attend the Saturday banquet; for tickets, contact Harold or Cindy Matton at 715-833-9649.

 

The Awards Weekend will be at Holiday Inn and Conference Center in Marshfield. Besides networking on farm and family issues at the two-day event, the young farmers will participate in a “Speak up for Ag” workshop and will tour various businesses in the Marshfield area.  

The 2012 state OYF winner will be named Saturday evening at the finale banquet. Also recognized will be several runners-up and a “Speak up for Ag” winner. The state winner will be nominated to the US Junior Chamber’s February 2013 national Awards Congress.

 

The 2011 state winners, Brian and Renee Schaal of Burlington, were just named one of top 10 finalists to attend national OYF Awards Congress held Feb. 9-12, 2012 in Springdale, Ark.   The 2010 state winners, Ryan and Michelle Keller of Richland Center, were named national winners in Louisville, KY, earlier this year.

 

 The OYF award is based on 50 percent progress in ag career, 25 percent soil and water conservation and 25 percent contributions to community, state or nation. Goals of the OYF program are: 

·         To foster better urban-rural relations through the understanding of farmers’ challenges, as well as the appreciation of their contributions and achievements;

·         To bring about a greater interest in farmers/ranchers;

·         To help build an urban awareness of the farmers’ importance and impact on America’s economy.

 

Now in its 59th year, Wisconsin OYF has had 15 national winners.  On the national level, OYF is sponsored by John Deere and supported by the Outstanding Farmers of America Fraternity and the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.