Friday, October 30, 1998

ACU Aggie Club honors top alumni in agriculture

By J.T. Smith / Farm Editor

Besides the the presentation of "Oustanding Aggie of the Year" to Dr. Charlie Hart and the "Young Professional Award" to Chandra Scott Corse - as mentioned in the past Sunday's column - Abilene Christian University also presented two more awards to alumni at its recent annual Homecoming banquet.

Doug Hufstedler was honored with the "Young Professional Award."

Hufstedler, a 1998 graduate of ACU, is the feed division mill manager and animal nutritionist for Producers Cooperative Association in Bryan. He has completed a master's of science degree in animal science at Texas A&M University. He currently is working on a doctorate degree.

"A broad knowledge base, strong work ethic and keen ability to communicate with customers and employees has enabled Doug to continue to excel as a team leader for our growing cooperative," said his employer, James Deatherege.

Meawnhile, John M. Duncum was recognized as the "Service Award" receipient.

Duncum, a member of ACU's board of trustees, graduated in 1959. He earned his master's degree from Sam Houston State University in 1961. Duncum is the chairman of the board for Bossier Chrysler Dodge and also is a real estate consultant.

A member of several professional organizations, Duncum teaches in the Texas A&M College of Business graduate program.

The success of such graduates clearly demonstrates the leaders that emerge from ACU in multitudes of professions.

Counts honored by agricultural groups

Speaking of agricultural recognition, State Rep. David Counts of Knox City has been honored with the Texas Agricultural Council's "Appreciation Award."

The Council is made up of 60 Texas agricultural associations that represent all aspects of agriculture throughout the state.

Tony Williams, who represents the Texas Cotton Ginners' Association, made the presentation to Counts on behalf of the Ag Council.

"No one in the Texas Legislature does a better job of representing agriculture and rural Texas than Representative Counts," Williams said. "He is a common-sense conservative who puts the interests of his legislative district and the State of Texas above party politics. Because of his hard work, knowledge, honesty and integrity, urban legislators often look to David for leadership and guidance when issues afecting rural Texas are debated in the Texas House of Representatives."

A survey of agricultural associations across the state clearly shows agriculture's appreciation of Counts' record in the Texas legislature.

Every agricultural association involved in political races has endorsed him for reelection.

"The Texas Agricultural Council appreciates and respects your dedication and your ability to make sure agriculture's position is effectively communicated to your legislative colleagues when it's time to vote on issues that literally determine the future of agriculture and rural Texas," Williams told Counts.

Cattle markets higher this week

It has been encouraging to see all area cattle markets higher this week.

Citing just a few, Graham Livestock Auction Commission Inc. was $20 per head or pair higher on bred cows and cow-calf pairs there on Monday. Eastland Livestock Auction was $2 per hundredweight higher on 300- to 500-pound cattle there Tuesday. Abilene Auction also had a powerful sale on Tuesday, moving 2,536 cattle here with the market on feeder steers under 400 pounds some $4 to $6 per hundredweight higher. Replacement cows were $30 to $40 per head higher at Abilene Auction.

On Wednesday, Coleman Livestock Auction was $2-3 per hundredweight higher on feeder steers. Cow-calf pairs were $20 per pair higher there. Demand was excellent on steers over 500 lbs.

Hopefully, this momentum will continue at area livestock sales this weekend.

And with a little rain ... who knows?

Equine program is Nov. 5 in Abilene

The Taylor County Equine Task Force is planning a fall program at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 5 with a barbecue meal at Joe Allen's J.A. Corral, just south of Cahoots on S. 11th. The program follows at 7:30 p.m.

An excellent roster of speakers will discuss everything from flies, mosquitoes and fire ants to worming. If you pre-register by Nov. 3, the cost is $5. Cost at the door will be $10. For more or to preregister, call Extension Agent Kyle Miller at (915) 672-6048 in Abilene.