DES MOINES — The Juergensen family of Churdan will be recognized as one of six recipients of The Way We Live Award at the 2015 Iowa State Fair. The family will be honored in an award ceremony on Wednesday, Aug. 19, at 10:30 am on the Christensen Farm Stage in the Paul R. Knapp Animal Learning Center.
The Way We Live Award recognizes Iowa families for their hard work and love of farming. The families each exemplify a dedication to animal agriculture and have strong farm values. Each entrant was asked to submit a short essay describing how the occupation of farming and living on a farm has shaped their life. Six families were chosen out of nearly 40 entries from a variety of commodities and areas in Iowa.
Jill and Chris Juergensen contract fed hogs for many years on their property before erecting two smaller buildings in 1997. They built two more hog buildings in 2006 and contracted with a different source to supply their pigs. As their five children – Cale, Mackenzie, Connor, Noah and Chase – all grew, they all had a hand in the livestock production.
Chris passed away in August 2012, and Jill took over the family operation while the children took on larger roles on the farm. Cale and Connor built a new hog building on the farm and began raising their own hogs in December 2012, while still in college.
There is constant activity and chores, and neighbors and friends often give up some free time to ensure the process runs smoothly. Connor and Cale raised chickens for years and even showcased them at the county fair. In May 2013, Cale, Connor, and Mackenzie all received associate degrees from Iowa Lakes Community College and Iowa Central Community College, respectively.
The Juergensen family will receive a prize package including $250 cash, Fair tickets, free parking, various coupon books, and recognition in the Paul R. Knapp Animal Learning Center during the Fair. The Way We Live Award is sponsored by WHO NewsRadio 1040 and Tractor Supply Company. “Nothing Compares” to the Iowa State Fair, set for August 13-23.
