February 18, 2000

This facet of TFB’s website will allow members to place free classified ads and, at the same time, see what fellow members have for sale. Although only members may place ads, purchasers will not be limited to FB members. Anyone will be able to view and purchase items listed on the site.

"The Texas Salebarn is a very exciting addition to TFB’s web strategy. It will take our members further into the brave new world of internet communication in terms of services and activities," said Vernie Glasson, TFB executive director.

With TFB’s current site averaging almost 50,000 hits per month, the potential is there for steady traffic to the Salebarn. Glasson has visited a number of electronic commerce sites and knows the members’ audience for selling their merchandise can virtually span the entire world. He believes members can benefit by the addition of the Texas Salebarn, especially since there will be no fees or charges.

"Many groups are charging for this type of service, yet we will make it another of our values added to the Farm Bureau membership," Glasson said.

Glasson feels the Texas Salebarn will be a dynamic program that will constantly improve as the organization learns how to use this important means of communication. Gene Hall, Information and Public Relations director, agrees.

"We are always looking for ways to provide additional opportunities for our members. E-commerce has become a way of life, with people shopping online for everything from A-Z. We thought our members were ready to have their ‘own’ site," said Hall.

Persons visiting the online classified site can choose "stalls," or categories, in which to browse. Capabilities for searching each section will be in place. Some of the categories which will be included are automotive, farm equipment, hay, home furnishings, and livestock. New categories will be added as needed.

The process for placing an ad is simple. After logging on to the Texas Salebarn, your last name and FB membership number will allow access to the area where classified ads can be input. Ads will run for 10 days. After that time, an e-mail reminder will be sent to inquire if you wish to cancel the ad or run it another 10 days.

For those members who do not have a computer in their home, a convenient coupon will be included in Texas Agriculture. When you fill out the form and mail it to the Texas Salebarn administrator, your ad will be placed for you. Since no reminder can be sent via e-mail, the ad will be discontinued after 10 days unless a request is made by telephone to continue running it.