A Union Center woman has become national president of Women Involved In Farm Economics - also known as WIFE.

Tammy Basel moved up from first vice president at the group's annual convention held in Nebraska City, Neb.

Basel said WIFE will focus on improving the agricultural economy to help more farmers and ranchers survive. Wall Street is important, but so is the farm economy, she said.

"Not everyone is remembering what happened to ag in the 1980s, and I think it's important to not repeat ourselves," said Basel.

"Wall Street is getting a lot of attention, and I think agriculture needs attention about the ag economy."

Immigration reform is a concern, she said.

"Our members in the South have a lot of problems with the issues of immigration and illegal immigrants, and I think all over the United States we have problems with illegal immigrants," Basel said.

Food safety issues are important, she said, adding that country of origin labeling will help people know where meat products originate. "Food safety is vital to the United States," she said

WIFE also wants to make sure the new farm bill is properly implemented and that the country of origin labeling is followed as intended.

WIFE, formed in 1976, is "dedicated to improving profitability in production agriculture through educational, legislative, communicative and cooperative efforts," according to a statement on its Web site. The organization also tries to foster cooperation among farm groups, the statement said.

The convention, held Nov. 20-22, included sessions and speeches on renewable energy, wind energy, carbon credits, agricultural law, taxation and property rights.