NEW CO-OP CHIEF HAS PLENTY OF EXPERIENCE

Jerry Day, new general manager of the Jackson Coop, brings an unusual pair of hobbies with him. He is into fishing and antiques.

"My wife got me interested in antiques," he explained. "She runs an antique shop and I just got interested in it."

Day oversees the Coop's three operations, based in Jackson, Perryville and Whitewater. He comes with plenty of experience, having managed the Chuala Farmers' Coop for six years and the Ray-Carroll Coop for 19 years. Both are located in North-central Missouri.

"I'm looking forward to getting around in the county and looking around and meeting people," Day said. "So far everybody has been really friendly. I look forward to getting settled in the area."

He and his wife have bought a home between Jackson and Cape Girardeau and hope to be moved in by April 1. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.

The Jackson Coop offers a full-service cooperative to farmers, as well as area residents. Among the items offered are gas, kerosene, fertilizer, cattle, hog and specialty feeds and more.

"We pretty well have everything needed by a farmer, as well as by a local citizen," Day said. "I'm looking forward to meeting all the customers and seeing what they need and whether anything need to be changed."

Day assumed his position December 1.