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The telemovie 'The Farmer's Wife' aired in Sep 1998 was able to effectively show how the inability to meet expectations often causes problems in relationships. The three-part series revolved around the family and farming business of Darrel and Juanita Buschkoetter of Nebraska.

Farmers are learning to protect profits through forward pricing and hedging in futures. Basic fluctuations in market prices are a function of demand. Storage of products for different periods of time increase demands for the product and thus increase prices. Aids for decision making are provided.

Analysis of past trends in commodities marketing reflect 4-year business cycles. Forecasts of improved farm produce prices at home and abroad are being made on the basis of these trends. Lower interest rates should increase the money supply necessary to improve world markets.

Knowing historical tendencies in commodity prices can help increase the farmer's odds in marketing his produce. Using seasonal price patterns will not guarantee always selling at the top price but will help the farmer to identify the best time to sell for good average prices. Example charts are presented showing seasonal highs and lows on contracts at the Chicago Board of Trade.

The author, as part of a Midwest Agribusiness Trade Research and Information Center delegation, was in the Soviet Union during the Aug 1991 coup attempt. The group's meetings with officials and business leaders proceeded as if nothing was happening.