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November 13, 2015 CapitalPress.com 17 Board brings enthusiasm that results in outstanding event The Willamette Valley Ag Expo’s nine-member board of directors makes the annual three-day agricultural show happen, and during the past 14 years they have proven their mettle by offering an event with more new and exciting features every year. The board is nominated by the WVAE membership, and each member serves a min- imum of a three-year term. They are elected at the annual meeting of the organization, which usually takes place on the final morning of the Expo during the exhibitor breakfast. Current members include: • Bill Lusk, Ag West Sup- ply product specialist (chair). “I started serving on the WVAE board from the begin- ning, trying to help organize and maintain a good ag show in our local area.” • Eric Fery, owner, Ag Chains Plus (vice chair). “I’ve always been involved in the local community, from being a volunteer firefighter to serving on area school boards. When I was asked to serve on the board (of the Expo), it was an easy decision, a way to be even more involved with WVAE ... to see the show succeed and serve the ag industry.” •Don Kropf, president and owner, Linn Benton Tractor. “I strive daily to contribute to agriculture and the agricul- tural way of life by providing dependable products and ser- vice. I’m proud to be a mem- ber of this board and continue serving the community I have helped grow.” • Tom Wells, territory man- ager and integrated solutions consultant, Papé Machin- ery-Agriculture and Turf. “I started moving irrigation pipe at the age of 8 and have been in- volved in agriculture all my life. I became involved with found- ing the Expo, wanting to have a local show to showcase Willa- mette Valley agriculture and the equipment used to produce our crops, while supporting young people pursuing careers in ag through scholarships.” • Mike Brown, owner, De- Jong Products Inc. “I’ve been a board member for WVAE since the forming of the gov- WVAG15-2/#5 erning body that guides the show. It’s with pride I can pro- mote and guide the show and showcase ag and the Willa- mette Valley.” • Steve Prouty, owner and president, McNeil Marketing Co. “I’ve been on the board since 2013 and understand the importance of the event. Being a nonprofit, all energies and profits from the show go back to the show and to the schol- arship program. WVAE is a great source for ag knowledge and allows growers from all corners of the Pacific North- west to stay tuned in to all ag-related issues.” • Stacy Koos, vice president and branch manager, Citizens Bank. “Citizens Bank has a long tradition of serving the agriculture community since its founding in 1957. Being part of the WVAE board is just one way we continue to show sup- port for the ag community.” • Andy Steinkamp, location manager, Wilco-Winfield. “I enjoy serving the growers and vendors of the Willamette Val- ley as a member of the WVAE board. I think giving the grow- ers a chance to see new solu- tions for their farms from ven- dors in our local area is very important.” • Terry Marstall, sales and service, Les Schwab Tire Cen- ter. “I started assisting our ag customers in the Willamette Valley in 1994. I take my years of experience, dedication and enthusiasm in and out of the field to promote the WVAE. My motto has always been: Stay positive, work hard and we will always get the job done.” WVAG15-1/#7 For the Capital Press WVAG15-2/#5 By GEOFF PARKS