Dale grew up on a Minnesota hog farm and graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in animal science. he has been with National Hog Framer for 32 years, serving as editor for the past 11 years. Dale has traveled to most states and foreign countries, studying and reporting on pork production practices throughout the world. Dale’s writing and photography have won numerous awards including the 2003 Minnesota’s Magazines & Publications Association’s Gold Award for Best Regular Column. He also received the 2004 Honorary Master Pork Producer Award from the Iowa Pork Producers Association and was honored in 2003 with the Distinguished Service award from the National Swine Improvement Federation. Dale stays active in pork production by raising purebred Chester Whites, Yorkshires and F-1 gilts.
There was a lot to be positive about in the pork industry the last week of October. I realize it is difficult to be optimistic when you are still losing $25 to $30/head. I also realize that positive news at this point could be as dangerous as it is welcome. But facts are facts, and we must recognize them.
...
As I begin this week's column, I"m reminded of two different "flip side" statements that may help characterize the topic at hand. The first is the old Archie Campbell schtick - "That's good - no that’s bad," which I have used before. The second reflects President Truman's frustration with economists' incessant use of the qualifier - "on the other hand" - to introduce the contrary opinion on a given topic. President Truman once demanded in his usual colorful language: "Will someone please find me a *!&%$*?>
