FRONT PORCH Jan. - Feb. 2013
arfb.com
Our
photo contest winners
ARFB Legislative priorities
Mom’s seven habits to happiness
BECAUSE THANK YOU ISN’T THANKS ENOUGH. PRESENTING A PRIVATE OFFER FOR FARM BUREAU MEMBERS.
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(excluding Volt). This offer is not available with some other offers, including private offers (for example, Owner Loyalty). Only customers who have been active members of an eligible Farm Bureau for a minimum of 60 days will be eligible to receive a certificate. Customers can obtain certificates at www.fbverify.com/gm. Farm Bureau and the FB logo are registered service marks of the American Farm Bureau Federation and are used herein under license by General Motors.
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Take up Ozark herbalism, culinary artistry, gardening, utilitarian and artistic handcrafts or mountain music in the beautiful, relaxed atmosphere of the Arkansas Ozarks. Join us for our spring Folk School, relax in comfort in one of the &DELQV DW 'U\ &UHHN, and enjoy the home-style fare at the 6NLOOHW 5HVWDXUDQW.
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PRE-SEASON EVENTS JANUARY 12: Cooking Class Comfort Food
FEBRUARY 9: Cooking Class Sweet Treats 14: Valentine’s Day Buffet at the Skillet Restaurant
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16: Hands-on Craft Classes 16: Valentine’s Dinner and Show 21-23: Quilter’s Retreat
MARCH 7-9: Spring Bluegrass Festival 18-22: Ozark Folk School
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FRONT PORCH
Farm Bureau
Matters
January - February 2013 C
O
V
E
R
by RANDY VEACH
President, Arkansas Farm Bureau
A
Arkansas Farm Bureau is committed
to supporting all segments of
strategic plan states, “We will recruit,
agriculture, from the largest family
involve and prepare farmers and
farms in our state to the smaller farms
ranchers to actively participate in all
that profitably target niche markets.
areas of Farm Bureau.” I think this
Recently, the Arkansas Farm Bureau
On the cover — Sheri Tunstill of Fayetteville took this honorable mention photo inside the historic schoolhouse at Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park for the 4th Annual Rural Reflections Photo Contest.
Send comments to: frontporch@arfb.com
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Legislative priorities Michelle Kitchens
12 Rural Reflections Photo Contest Winners 3 4
Farm Bureau Matters Randy Veach Food for Thought Ewell Welch
14 Taste Arkansas 18 22 24 26
Tara Johnson Land & People Ken Moore Building Wealth Allyson Hamlin In the Kitchen Tara Johnson Health & Safety Gregg Patterson
For address changes, contact:
Edition 84
well as our efforts to reach out to small,
refocus the efforts of our horticulture
non-traditional farmers.
commodity group, broadening its focus
Created by Publishing Concepts, Inc. For Advertising info contact David Brown • 1-800-561-4686 dbrown@pcipublishing.com
Even subtle change can be
on specialty crops and small farm
significant. As we talk about moving
efforts. This decision is more significant
Arkansas agriculture forward in a
than changing the name of the
united way, we must do everything in
Horticulture Division to the Specialty
our power to ensure all segments of
Crop Division. I believe it’s a testament
agriculture are represented, from the
to the willingness to refine the efforts of
rice farmer to the bee keeper, from the
our organization when needed.
cattle rancher to the catfish farmer,
One reason for changing the name
from the cotton fields to the piney
was simply to be more accurate and
woods, and everything in between.
consistent with definitions used by the
The diversity of our operations, in fact,
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
is the uniting strength of Arkansas
At our recent state convention in Hot Springs, the voting delegate body
agriculture. I want to share some wisdom I heard
approved a policy recommendation that
from one of our bright young farmers
states, “We support attracting members
recently. Cassie Davis of Prairie Grove
involved in non-traditional agriculture,
is a hardworking dairy farmer, mother
including small farms producing for
and wife, and an unabashed advocate
local markets.” There is an immediate
for agriculture. When discussing the
opportunity for all of us to work
need for agricultural leaders, she
toward this end by seeking out these
said, “The voice of agriculture is a
producers and encouraging them to get
whisper without everyone standing up
involved in Farm Bureau and our policy
together.” Can I get an “Amen”?
The organization’s strategic plan has
Those of us involved in agriculture
a couple of different statements that
are woven into the same cloth, and we
support this change. One states, “We
share so many of the same goals. It’s
will diversify and increase efforts that
when we cast aside our differences and
improve consumer support for farm and
work together for a common goal – in
ranch issues.” I believe enhancing our
this case for the betterment of all of
work with specialty crops producers and
Arkansas agriculture – that our state
using the opportunity to reach out to
stands tall.
farmers’ markets and those that produce pcipublishing.com
clearly supports making this change, as
Board of Directors approved a plan to
development process. Rhonda Whitley at rhonda.whitley@arfb.com Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation Farm Bureau Center P.O. Box 31 • Little Rock, AR 72203-0031 Fax: (501) 228-1557 Please provide membership number.
Another statement from our
God bless you and your families.
for them will also lead to improved
God bless the farmers and ranchers.
consumer support for agriculture.
And God bless Arkansas Farm Bureau.
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Food for Thought
FRONT PORCH Arkansas Farm Bureau © 2013 Official membership publication of Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation. Front Porch is mailed to more than 200,000 member-families.
by EWELL WELCH
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Included in membership dues.
ARKANSAS FARM BUREAU OFFICERS: President Randy Veach Manila Vice President Rich Hillman Carlisle Secretary/Treasurer Tom Jones Pottsville Executive Vice President Ewell Welch Little Rock DIRECTORS: Richard Armstrong, Ozark Troy Buck, Alpine Jon Carroll, Moro Joe Christian, Jonesboro Terry Dabbs, Stuttgart Mike Freeze, England Bruce Jackson, Lockesburg Johnny Loftin, El Dorado Gene Pharr, Lincoln Rusty Smith, Des Arc Allen Stewart, Mena Mike Sullivan, Burdette Leo Sutterfield, Mountain View
Executive Vice President, Arkansas Farm Bureau
W
EX OFFICIO Sherry Felts, Joiner Brent Lassiter, Newport Janice Marsh, McCrory Brian Walker, Horatio Executive Editor: Steve Eddington Editor: Gregg Patterson Contributing Editors: Ken Moore, Keith Sutton, Chris Wilson Research Assistant: Brenda Gregory
We experienced a turbulent year in
those on our website to help members,
will long be remembered for its devastating
and the general public, in understanding
impact to farmers and ranchers. It’s during
where the candidates stood on important
challenging circumstances, though, we often
issues;
see the best in our farmers and ranchers, and this year was no different.
It’s our objective to ensure we look into
the future, for the betterment of all Arkansas
Front Porch (USPS 019-879) is published bi-monthly by the Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation, 10720 Kanis Rd., Little Rock, AR 72211. Periodicals Postage paid at Little Rock, Ark. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Front Porch, P.O. Box 31, Little Rock, AR 72203.
• Held two “How to Win an Election” seminars along with our partners at the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce; • Took 70 county leaders to Washington,
agriculture. To that end, our organization
D.C., as part of our County Presidents’
accomplished a number of noteworthy
Tour, plus took 13 from our Young
efforts in the past year, including: • All six members of the state’s
congressional delegation earned Friend
of Farm Bureau designation. We worked closely with our delegation, particularly
on issues such as international trade, the farm bill, biofuels and immigration; • All 76 county Farm Bureaus held both a policy development meeting and a county annual meeting;
Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) there, as well. • Increased participation in YF&R activities by more than 50 percent; • Redesigned our exhibit at the Little Rock Zoo, creating signage that educates consumers about Arkansas agriculture; • Hosted a trade mission from a poultry company from Colombia; • Helped coordinate a House Ag Committee field hearing in Arkansas
• Worked vigorously in support of Issue #1, the highway bond initiative, which
• Co-sponsored the 2nd Annual Symposium on Food Animal Well-being, which attracted participants from 10 states;
passed 58-42 percent; • Initiated a President’s Leadership
• Continued the success of our MASH
Council, a group of 22 budding leaders,
camps, which included 409 students this
ages 25-45, and put them through
year;
an extensive leadership development ADVERTISING: Contact David Brown at Publishing Concepts, Inc. for advertising rates. dbrown@pcipublishing.com (501) 221-9986 Fax (501) 225-3735
congressional candidates and posted
Arkansas agriculture, with a drought year that
• Donated more than $11,000 through our county and state Women’s committees as
curriculum; • Distributed 15,000 copies of our Election Directory, providing contact information on candidates for local, county, state and
part of Food Check-out Day; • Reached more than 33,000 people with 550 programs on safety and other critical topics;
national offices; • Continued our growth in social media
• Our educational outreach (Mobile Ag
platforms, reaching out to those
Experience, combine simulator, mobile
unfamiliar with Farm Bureau and
cotton gin and rice mill, milk cow, etc.)
Publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
agriculture. Facebook followers grew by
went to 60 counties and 150 venues,
more than 150 percent in 2012 to more
reaching almost 200,000 people about
The Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising requests.
than 3,300; more than 100,000 viewed our videos on YouTube; arfb.com had 1.2 million page views and our TasteArkansas.
the Classroom resource materials and
com blog had more than 25,000 visitors;
donated 2,200 books as part of our Ag
• Conducted video interviews with 4
farming and ranching; • Finally, we distributed 53,000 Ag in
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Literacy Program.
Š 2012 United Soybean Board
Source: USB Market View Database FRONT PORCH
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LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES A look at Farm Bureau’s focus
Gregg Patterson
by Michelle Kitchens
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At Arkansas Farm Bureau almost
work. ARFB’s grassroots network must
exemptions for tomato twine and
everything relates to food. It’s what
actively lobby legislators if we hope
certain cotton binding. The proposed
many of our members do — grow the
to accomplish tax reductions in this
legislation will update the tax code
food — so a food analogy is appropriate.
session.
to match newer technologies. Several
Legislative sessions are like soup, changing the ingredients a little can
legislators have expressed interest in • Sales tax exemption on energy
passing the bill. This request is modest
really change the taste of the soup. The
for poultry and other animal
with a $600-800 million annual impact.
upcoming 89th General Assembly could
facilities.
And for drought-impacted cattle and
be a spicy soup.
In the November general election,
ARFB has worked for several sessions
cotton farmers, every little bit helps.
to achieve this goal. Energy costs
It’s far from a “done deal,” and farmers
voters added almost equal parts
continue to climb and, consequently, so
and ranchers must contact their
Republican and Democrats, then
does the farmer’s tax bill. A reduction
legislators and request they support this
ratcheted up the heat factor with some
or complete exemption will provide
legislation.
hot ingredients like the healthcare
some relief for farmers whose energy
insurance exchange, tax reform and
bills are in the tens of thousands.
prevent shopping leakage to
the proposed Medicaid expansion
This exemption will have the most
neighboring states. Many farmers now
and shortfall. Add voter ID, education
impact on poultry growers. According
cross state lines to purchase these items.
funding, school choice and ethics
to USDA reports, there are more than
Let’s keep our purchasing here instead
reform to bring it to a boil, and then let
6,000 poultry farms in Arkansas. Every
of buying in border states like Texas,
it all simmer for at least 60 days.
county in the state has a poultry farm.
Oklahoma, Missouri and Mississippi.
Arkansas Farm Bureau (ARFB) is
This exemption also will help
Poultry accounts for 47 percent of total
bringing its own additions to this
agricultrual receipts in the state, and
version of alphabet soup. The following
agriculture is Arkansas’ largest industry.
a sales tax exemption on parts
items are the legislative priorities of the
This exemption would put money in
and repairs if farm equipment is
ARFB membership.
the accounts of every poultry farmer
included.
and thus their rural communities. The
Taxes
• Support a coalition effort for
An exemption for manufacturing
estimate for an exemption on energy
replacement parts and repairs is being
would cut taxes by $6-7 million.
proposed by industry supporters.
Agriculture, like all businesses,
That savings, assuming a moderate
is constantly seeking competitive
multiplier, would mean a positive $20
agriculture. However, ARFB has
advantages by reducing costs. Creating
million economic impact. The first
approached supporters about the
tax treatments is one way to reduce
benefit of this tax cut will be felt in
inclusion of farm parts. If the proposal
costs. ARFB has positions on five
rural communities. This has the largest
expands to include agriculture,
different tax issues on the priority list
price tag of all of ARFB’s requests and
ARFB will join the effort to pass this
this year. The legislature will consider
will have to have all farmers actively
legislation.
many tax code bills during the session
involved to secure this exemption.
and weigh carefully each change on its merit. Several organizations and
• Oppose any reduction • Sales tax exemption for
legislators will be eyeing tax changes;
expendable materials used with
reductions in grocery tax, income
agricultural equipment.
tax, energy for manufacturing, capital
The present proposal doesn’t include
ARFB will seek a sales tax exemption
in agricultural sales tax exemptions. This is a perennial item on the priority list because of its importance
gains and replacement parts are all
for “expendable materials.” This
to our membership. ARFB will work to
circulating. Achieving a tax cut in
includes hay wrap, twine and cotton
protect the current exemptions used by
this budget environment will be hard
bale wrap. Present law provides
farmers.
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Crime and Enforcement
Animal Health
• Support stiffer penalties and
• Support amending Arkansas’
changing the name to “Timber
expanded enforcement for
brucellosis law to create the
Fire Suppression Fee.”
transporting live feral hogs.
“Bovine Animal Health Program”
• Support increasing the timber tax by 5 cents per acre and
ARFB’s support of expanding tax
Hogs. Many Arkansans love them on the
and set a maximum fee of $2 per
exemptions should illustrate better
gridiron but hate them in the pasture and
than anything, our position on taxes.
crops. These pests are a scourge to farmers
Arkansas is one of the last states
However, the organization has a
and wildlife. Research shows their spread
maintaining a brucellosis program. The
long history of supporting the state’s
across the state can be directly attributed to
state has been free of the disease for 15
collection and even increase of necessary
human transportation. It’s presently illegal to
years, and cattlemen want to adjust and
revenues. The per-acre timber tax is
transport and release feral hogs in Arkansas.
use the per-head fee to address other cattle
presently 15 cents and is paid only on
We are seeking the possible increase of
health issues. The fee, paid at the market
timber acreage. This tax supports wildfire
penalties for transport and release and the
by cattle owners, would be converted from
protection by the Arkansas Forestry
expansion of enforcement authority to stem
brucellosis-only to allow more flexibility
Commission protecting homes and
the growing wild hog population.
to address other health issues, such as trichomoniasis or animal identification.
timber investments statewide. An increase to 20 cents per acre will generate about $1 million but could save Arkansans tens of millions in
head.
• Support additional restrictions on sale of non-ferrous metals. Despite changes to the law addressing
• Support additional funding for the Arkansas Veterinary Student Tuition Assistance Program.
losses from one dangerous wildfire. One
the sale of copper and scrap metals, thieves
need only think about the drought and
continue to boldly steal these items. ARFB
fires of last summer to see the value
recently adopted policy supporting a
the last session to provide additional
in fire suppression. Our membership
permitting process that would prohibit
financial assistance for Arkansas students
has discussed the issue thoroughly and
dealers from purchasing items until sellers
attending Mississippi State University’s
believes the service is valuable and the
submit the proper paperwork. The permits
School of Veterinarian Medicine. Students
increase is needed. We will work with the
would be issued by the local police. As long
would be required to establish a practice
state agency and timber industry. Both
as prices for non-ferrous metals remain high,
that includes the treatment of large animals
support an increase to achieve this goal.
theft will continue. But changes to the law
in Arkansas. This is a great opportunity to
will make it easier for police to catch and
invest in Arkansas youth and agriculture’s
prosecute offenders.
future and rural economic development. A
Keith Sutton
Ken Moore photos
Water needs Plans for updating the state water plan are underway. Farm Bureau believes agriculture’s use of water needs to be the second-highest priority for water use in the state, behind only that of human consumption.
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ARFB helped create this program during
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relatively small financial investment puts more large-animal vets to work ensuring the health of livestock. It also brings a graduatelevel taxpayer back to Arkansas to begin a career in animal medicine.
Fire protection Farm Bureau will work in this legislative session to help secure an additional five-cent-per-acre fee for forested lands to improve fire protection. If successful, it will help save millions of dollars in forest-firerelated losses.
Water • Support a statutory priority for agricultural water use, second only to human consumption. As most active Farm Bureau members know, Arkansas is in the beginning stages of adapting the State Water Plan. The plan is the governing guidance for the state’s water use. ARFB feels strongly that agriculture should have high priority in water usage, second only to human consumption. ARFB would like to see this basic principle confirmed in law. Water is critical to food production and food production to human survival. Arkansas is a water-rich state, and agriculture is ready to do its part to preserve the quality and quantity of it for our citizens.
Call for Nominees
The Arkansas State Board of Nursing…Celebrating a Century of Nursing Leadership, is the theme of the 9th Annual Compassionate Nurse and Nurse Educator of the Year awards, Saturday, June 8th. It’s held in the beautiful Wildwood Park for the Arts in West Little Rock. We’re searching Arkansas to find the one nurse we can say is the most outstanding in our state. Do you know a nurse that you feel is the most compassionate, caring and empathetic caregiver? A nurse who has given comfort or care to you, a family member or friend? We are asking you to send us their name, where they work, phone number and a short message expressing why you think they are the most deserving nurse in Arkansas. For the second year we are also honoring the outstanding nurse educator of the year. If you are a student and you have an educator that has been a driving force in development and support of your nursing career , send in your nominee’s name, place of work and a short story of why they should receive the award. Be sure you include your contact information for us to get back in touch with you. Nominate a candidate from your school or facility today.
Send or email your nomination to: NURSING COMPASSION P.O. Box 17427, Little Rock, Arkansas 72222 sramsel@pcipublishing.com
Suzanne Ramsel at 501-221-9986 or 800-561-4686 ext. 101
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2012 Nursing Compassion Award Winner, Sherri Guinn, RN 2012 Outstanding Educator Award Winner, Betty Diehl, MSN,RN
State
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Any insurance company can offer “discounts”. But with us, you talk with your local agent face to face. That way, you know you’re getting the premium discounts you qualify for, from day one. And you know we’ll check for more discounts every six months. That’s why our customers stay happy. And we think you will, too. Call today.
Real service. Real people.
ARAUPR41596
www.afbic.com
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*Not all discounts are subject to semi-annual automatic review. *Discounts may vary, and do not apply to life insurance products. Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. of Arkansas, Inc. Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Co. Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Co., Jackson, MS
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Gregg Patterson
More service. Same auto discounts.
Is there a doctor in the barn? There’s an acute need for largeanimal veterinarians to care for farm stock. Arkansas doesn’t have a university school of veterinary medicine (though there is a vet tech school at ASUBeebe). Students here wanting to attend vet school face financial difficulties, as well as limited openings to attend an out-ofstate vet school. This session, Farm Bureau will continue its work with the legislature to help offset those costs. A cooperative agreement with Mississippi State University helps a limited number of qualifying Arkansas students attend vet school there. In return, graduating students agree to return to Arkansas and work here, including with large farm animals.
University of Arkansas, Division of Agriculture • Support funding for the
As always ARFB will work on many
After the election, the Senate and House
issues beyond the priority list, working to
both changed their leaders-elect. No one
support legislation that agrees with our
knows exactly what recipe is brewing at the
University of Arkansas, Division of
policy and opposing legislation that is
Capitol.
Agriculture.
damaging to agriculture or rural Arkansas.
Another constant on the ARFB priority
Arkansas is entering a new era in
It will definitely have some exotic ingredients in addition to the base. Arkansas
list, we are dedicated in our commitment to
political history. Republicans hold the
could be in for a treat with a delicate balance
see the Division of Agriculture adequately
majority in both chambers but Democrats
of flavors but whatever the result, expect the
funded. Its mission to education and
still control several committees and can
preparation and presentation to have a little
provide services in every Arkansas county is
block the Revenue Stabilization Act.
more spice.
unmatched.
Commodity Promotion and Research Programs • Support current structure of
FOUNDATION PROBLEMS? Call us Today for a FREE Estimate RESIDENTIAL + COMMERCIAL
commodity checkoff programs. Arkansas has checkoff and promotion programs for six different farm products: catfish, rice, soybeans, beef, wheat and corn & grain sorghum. Structures for these programs are slightly different and established in Arkansas law. Each program was initiated by farmers, is funded at least in part by assessments paid by farmers, is governed by a representative group that includes farmers and is used to promote goods and perform research. ARFB is a longtime supporter of the programs. Our farmer members believe the present structure of each program is working well and shouldn’t be changed.
Piers to Stable Clay
Term Limits • Cooperate with other interested groups to amend the present law to lengthen the terms legislators can serve. Only two other states have term limits as restrictive as ours, and the Capitol has become a revolving door for legislators. Governing the state is a complicated business, and legislators need time to be effective, to learn the law and, yes, gain
Slab Repair • • • • •
term limits but a more reasonable length of service. Extending the length of term limits is what is best for Arkansas.
Pier & Beam
DuraSteel Piers Pilings Mud Pumping Raising & Leveling Brick Repairs
• • • • •
Sills Replaced Joist Replaced Rotten Floors Replaced Raising & Leveling Termite Damage Repair
Home Services Inc. Locally Owned and Operated
power to make good laws. ARFB and our partners aren’t proposing an elimination of
Pressed Pilings to Refusal
Call 870-798-3807 • Toll-Free 1-877-256-7900 HOME SERVICES, INC. SAVES YOU MONEY!
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RuralReflections Contest winners take great photos depicting rural life.
Shelby Atkinson, 17, of Magnolia is the High School division winner and Grand Prize winner of Front Porch magazine’s 4th Annual Rural Reflections Photo Contest. Her photo of a calf nursing at sunset was shot in the pasture on her family’s farm.
Honorable Mention: High school student Blake Eiermann of Blevins captured these two beautiful roosters by an old hay rake on his grandpa’s farm. 12
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Honorable Mention: Bernard Skoch of Elkins took this photo and says: “After a hard round of mutton bustin’ Noah Presnell, 4, and Tyler Presnell, 7, watch other events at the rodeo, clutching their hard-won trophies.”
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Honorable Mention: Tracy Boyd took this photo of her dog Jasper as “he was running through the clover watching the bees at work.�
Honorable Mention: High school student Kamron Forga of Mt. Ida composed this black & white still life of an old water pump by a pond.
Honorable Mention: Kaelyn Lay of Prim named this photo Lil Cowboys. It features her nephews, A.J., 2; Andrew, 6; and twins Adam and Aaron, 4.
Vickie Watts of Harrison is the Adult division winner of our photo contest. She captured this beautiful fall scene of a maple tree and a rainbow after a storm. She says the rainbow disappeared moments after taking the picture. FRONT PORCH
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13
Taste Arkansas From farm to table compiled by Tara Johnson
T Family owned The overwhelming majority (97 percent) of farms in Arkansas are family owned.
Arkansas agriculture Agriculture is the lifeblood of Arkansas
there are only 1.7 acres of agricultural
communities. It’s our responsibility to
land per person. The growing population
support our farmers.”
and its largest industry. Arkansas has
requires farmers to improve efficiency to
more than 49,000 farms that annually add
meet the growing need for food. Better
of agricultural communications and
about $16 billion to the state’s economy.
land management, improved technology
leadership at the University of Arkansas
Yet, concern about how our food is grown
and sophisticated equipment are just a
and mother of two, said: “It is critical
or raised seems to be in the media almost
few examples of the advances that have
for parents to learn about agriculture,
daily. It can be hard to understand farm
increased efficiency. Necessity forces
so they can help their children make
life if you haven’t lived it, and it isn’t
agriculture to constantly evolve.
educated decisions. With fewer families
always easy to explain the process of
I’ve asked a several people involved
Casandra Cox, an instructor
having direct connections to agriculture,
food production. It’s important to first
in Arkansas agriculture on various levels
it is important for parents to
understand something about where food
about the one thing they would like
make agriculture a priority in raising well-
comes from and a little about those who
everyone to know about agriculture. The
rounded children.
grow or raise it.
answers may surprise you.
Families own and operate more than
When I asked Jim Carroll, a farmer in
“Parents spend a lot of time and money making sure their children have
97 percent of those farms. Often, farming
Monroe County, he said: “I want them
the resources needed to do well in school,
is portrayed as “industrial” or “corporate,”
to know that most farmers are energetic
engage in extracurricular activities, learn
like it’s some faceless assembly line
and educated. If they weren’t enthusiastic
about languages and culture,” Cox said.
process. That’s simply not the case. Yes,
about what they are doing, they wouldn’t
“All of this we do to ensure the brightest
there are large food companies, but those
be doing it.”
future for our children, and agriculture is
companies don’t own the overwhelming
Jason Brown, a public relations
an essential component of their daily
percentage of farms. Rural families own
specialist who works with the Arkansas
lives. If we are going to live it, we should
those farms.
Soybean Board, said: “Arkansas farming
learn about it.”
The average U.S. farmer already feeds
is a family business that supports
The role agriculture plays in our society
more than 150 people. Fifty years ago,
Arkansas families. The farmers in
is incredibly important. This year, don’t
it was approximately 43 people. Today,
Arkansas’ 75 counties bring an incredible
forget about the farmer. Visit arfb.com to
with about 7 billion people in the world,
economic impact to each of our
learn more about Arkansas agriculture.
14
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Healthy swaps Every January, there’s a mad dash
Drink sparkling water instead of
hunger pangs. A lot of snack bars, even the
diet soda. The taste of sparkling water is
ones with whole grains, are full of saturated
to the health food section. It seems like
definitely an acquired one. Some flavors
fat. Avoid them and snack on a banana
everyone has a New Year’s resolution to
are better than others. For example, the
with a teaspoon of peanut butter instead or
eat healthier. With all the misleading
lime flavor tastes like lemon-lime soda but
apple slices dipped in peanut butter.
information out there, navigating the
without the sweetness. If you like water
path to healthy eating can be confusing
with lemon, you will like the lemon flavor.
balsamic vinaigrette instead of ranch
and overwhelming. There are a few simple
You may initially miss soda’s sweetness, but
dressing. Pick fruit over candy. Drink water
swaps that can help you make the change.
after a few tries, you’ll be hooked on the
instead of soda and many others. You don’t
healthier sparkling water.
have to completely change everything you
Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil. Olive oil is a great source of
Use hummus as a sandwich
monounsaturated fatty acid and amino
topping or dip. Hummus is underrated.
acids. In fact, olive oil is also a good
It’s rich with protein, comes in a variety
It’s easy to make simple swaps. Order
eat, just swap to healthier options for a manageable way to overhaul your diet.
source of vitamin E and contains vitamins
of flavors and is perfect for dipping with
Tara Johnson is a contributor to Arkansas
A and K, iron, calcium, magnesium and
vegetables and whole-grain crackers. Dip
Farm Bureau’s Taste Arkansas blog. For recipes,
potassium
your favorite raw vegetable in spinach-
videos and farmer profiles visit tastearkansas.
Cook with Greek-style yogurt
flavored hummus from the refrigerator
com today.
instead of sour cream. One cup of
section at the grocery store for a filling,
full-fat Greek yogurt has 300 calories and
healthy snack.
no cholesterol, while one cup of full-fat
Swap potato chips for popcorn.
sour cream has 445 calories and 120 mg of
Popcorn is a whole-grain snack packed
cholesterol. Another added bonus to Greek
with fiber. It will satisfy your craving for a
yogurt is that it contains probiotics to
salty crunch without the empty fat calories.
support digestion. Plain Greek yogurt has
Eat whole fruit instead of snack
a taste similar to sour cream. Use the two
bars. Fruit is a filling, natural snack
interchangeably.
alternative that can satiate afternoon
1. Turn bread upside down and cut from the soft side. 2. Freeze grapes to chill white wine without watering it down. 3. Lay a wooden spoon over a pot of boiling water. It will keep the water from boiling over. 4. Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a hint of garlic. For stronger flavor, add garlic at the end of the recipe. 5. To warm biscuits, pancakes or muffins that have been refrigerated, place them in a microwave with a cup of water. Healthy oil Olive oil is a healthier subsitute for vegetable oil.
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17
Land&People DeSalvos named Arkansas Farm Family of the Year Fifth-generation farm family from Conway County earns 2012 honor
by Ken Moore
T
The DeSalvo family of Center Ridge
is the 2012 Arkansas Farm Family of the Year. Tony DeSalvo, along with his son Phillip and daughter-in-law Beth, own Big D Ranch, a 1,300-acre cattle and hay operation. Phillip and Beth have two children, 8-year-old Benjamin and 6-yearKeith Sutton
old Isabella.
Big D Ranch consists of a 350-head
commercial cow-calf operation, 150-head of registered Ultrablack cattle, which includes 30-40 registered bulls. The DeSalvos are believed to have the largest herd of registered Ultrablack cattle in Arkansas. Additionally, they grow some
Back in black The DeSalvo family of Center Ridge is the 2012 Arkansas Farm Family of the Year. (Left to right) Isabella, Tony, Benjamin, Beth and Phillip DeSalvo check on some of their Ultrablack cattle. Their Big D Ranch has been in operation since the late 1800s.
900 acres of wheat, sorghum, sudan silage and Bermuda hay.
efficient family farming operations that
A winner will be named from among 10
exist in Arkansas,” said Andy Guffey,
southeastern state winners in October in
settled near Center Ridge Conway Co.
coordinator of the Arkansas Farm Family
Moultrie, Ga.
in the late 1800s, and since 2003, Tony
of the Year program. “They are diligent
and Phillip have worked diligently to
protectors of the natural resources used in
Year program is the longest-running farm
ensure the commercial and seed-stock
growing their forage and pastures and are
family recognition program of its type in
cattle operations run efficiently. Phillip is
a prime model of a hardworking, multi-
the United States,” said Arkansas Farm
proud to work the same land his ancestors
generation farm family.”
Bureau President Randy Veach, a cotton
The first generation of DeSalvos
established more than 100 years ago.
Phillip is a member of the Conway
“The Arkansas Farm Family of the
farmer from Manila. “We congratulate
He is raising Ben and Isabella to share
County and Arkansas Cattlemen’s
each of the county and district winners
his passion for ranching, and they are
associations and the National Cattlemen’s
for this well-deserved recognition.”
learning to work on the farm.
Beef Association. Beth is a substitute
Phillip works directly with a beef
The Farm Family of the Year program,
teacher and volunteer at Nemo Vista
now in its 67th year, begins with selection
nutrition specialist and Land O’Lakes
Elementary School, where Tony drove
of the top farm family in each county.
Purina Mills Feed Co. to ensure his cattle’s
a school bus for 13 years. The family
Then, eight district Farm Families of the
nutritional needs are met. Artificial
also serves in numerous capacities at St.
Year are selected. The process concludes
insemination and careful genetic selection
Joseph Catholic Church.
with the selection of the state Farm Family
among the bulls are reasons for the success of their operation. “The DeSalvos are another great example of the many successful and
18
As Arkansas’ Farm Family of the
of the Year. The competition is judged on
Year, the DeSalvos will compete in
production, efficiency and management
the 2013 Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo
of farm operations, family life and rural/
Southeastern Farmer of the Year program.
community leadership and values.
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Share Your Thoughts t www.facebook.com/ArkansasFarmBureau t www.youtube.com/arkansasfarmbureau t twitter.com/ARFB t www.arfb.cPN Oow â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Share Thisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; FOBCMFE
19
DoItYourself
Arkansas Farm and Ranch Families Provideâ&#x20AC;Ś by Gregg Patterson
24% of Arkan nsas Jobs
T JOBS
Protecting the En nvironment
ENVIRONMENT
75% of Wildliffe Habitat
Meet Lacy Glover Former Miss Arkansas and Spokesperson for the Arkansas Foundation for Agriculture
FOOD
Arkansas Safe, affordaable fo ood
Foundation for Agriculture www.growingarkansas.org
20
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Life is priceless. Insuring it should be affordable. There’s no limit to what you would do for your children. But there is a limit to your budget. We know how to help you with both. Call now for a Get Real Review from your local Farm Bureau Insurance Agent.
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Building
Wealth
Secure peace of mind Financial resolutions to make 2013 a success
Plan for peace Financial peace of mind comes from purposeful planning. The New Year is a great opportunity to make sure you’re on the right path.
by Allyson Hamlin
T
The New Year is here, and it
comes with the prospect of making New Year’s resolutions we finally hope to keep this year. These resolutions usually revolve around
done so in the last 12 months. Use
local Farm Bureau agent to schedule a
health and finances. Here are five
the report to help identify where you
review.
ideas for financial resolutions that
need to start to lowering debt.
will lead to peace of mind in 2013.
5. Get on track for retirement. 3. See where you can cut
If your employer offers a retirement
1. Set goals. If you don’t set a
back. When you know where your
plan with a match, try to contribute
goal, it’s impossible to reach it. After
money is going, try to think of ways
at least enough to get that full match,
all, it’s hard to know how to get
to reduce expenses by spending less
so you don’t leave any “free” money
where you want to be if you have
than you earn each month. Then,
on the table. You can get additional
no idea where that is. Take a break
no matter how small the amount
tax benefits by contributing more to
from this holiday season, and ask
you can save is, start saving for your
your employer’s plan, a traditional
yourself what steps you need to take
goals. Ask yourself if there are ways of
IRA and/or a Roth IRA. Don’t forget
to achieve those goals and what they
doing the same thing while spending
you’ll be able to contribute more to
would cost you. Most importantly,
less money. Can you bring lunch
your 401(k) next year and you have
write it down to hold yourself
to work instead of eating out every
until April 15 to contribute to IRAs
accountable and make them more
day? Putting that extra money aside
for 2012.
likely to actually happen.
will help when unexpected expenses occur.
Making 2013 a success requires
2. Check your credit and payoff debt. If you’re like most people,
22
you to start planning now. Set your 4. Make sure you have the
goals immediately, and plan your year
you’ve probably been using your
right amount of insurance. You
to become debt free and establish
credit cards all over the place for the
want to have enough insurance to
some savings all at the same time.
last several weeks, so keep an eye
cover necessities and enough life
If you’re interested in opening an
on your credit card statements for
insurance to provide for anyone
IRA or money market account, visit
any purchases you didn’t make. You
dependent on your income. This
farmbureaubank.com, or visit with
also can take it a step further and
is also a good time to examine
your local Farm Bureau county office.
check your credit report for free at
your health, property and casualty
Here’s wishing you all a prosperous
annualcreditreport.com if you haven’t
insurance coverage. Contact your
New Year!
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Ask your equipment dealer for AgDirect financing. ®
AgDirect ® offers the best equipment financing option in the business – highly competitive rates, exceptional terms and quick credit decisions. An equipment financing program offered by Farm Credit Services of Western Arkansas and other participating Farm Credit System associations, AgDirect is only available through your ag equipment dealer. When you’re in the market to buy, lease or refinance equipment, ask for AgDirect financing. Learn more by calling 888-525-9805 or visiting agdirect.com. )\` SLHZL VY YLMPUHUJL
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23
InTheKitchen A universal favorite Chicken & dumplings is a soul satisfying elixir by Tara Johnson
M My mom and dad make the best
chicken and dumplings. When I was young, a steamy pot of chicken and
dumplings could always make a bitter winter day better. I often find myself
making a big pot of my old favorite on
particularly stressful days. The moist, yet fluffy dumplings, creamy broth, tender
chicken and veggies never fail to lift my spirits and warm my soul.
I’ve simplified my parents’ recipe
and can whip up a big pot of chicken
and dumplings in close to 30 minutes.
The dumplings are my favorite part, and because you boil them in the soup itself,
it gives the broth a punch of creaminess. This will easily become one of your go-to comfort food recipes.
Chicken and dumplings is cold-weather comfort food.
IIngredients di t •
24
Directions
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, chopped in
In a large stockpot over medium heat, add onions, olive
bite-size pieces
oil and garlic. Cook until onions just start to turn translucent,
•
1 medium onion, chopped
stirring occasionally. Add chicken and cook for 10 minutes or
•
2 tablespoons olive oil
until the chicken is almost done. It will be white. Add chicken
•
2 teaspoons minced garlic
stock, salt, pepper, savory mix, peas and carrots. Bring to a boil
•
48 ounces low sodium chicken stock
over medium-high heat. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
•
1 (12 ounce) bag frozen peas
In the meantime, combine Bisquick, milk, oregano and parsley.
•
1 (12-ounce) bag frozen carrots
The dough should be moist. Drop dumpling dough by the
•
1 teaspoon savory seasoning mix
heaping spoonful into boiling soup. Cover and simmer over
•
2 teaspoons kosher salt
medium heat for another 5 to 10 minutes or until dumplings are
•
1 teaspoon pepper
no longer doughy and have fluffy centers. The outside will look
•
2 cups Bisquick
moist. Serve immediately.
•
2/3 cup milk
•
1 teaspoon oregano
Tara Johnson is a contributor to Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Taste
•
1 teaspoon parsley
Arkansas blog. For more recipes visit tastearkansas.com.
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25
Health&Safety Don’t worry. Be happy Mom wasn’t too far off on what it takes to be happy in life
by Gregg Patterson
walk to “get the
happiness just doesn’t happen of its own
blood circulating.”
accord. Research in the field of “positive
Medical research
psychology” indicates that you build a
of the physical and
foundation for happiness through deliberate
mental benefits of
action. Mom used to say something similar.
regular exercise is
“You make your own luck by working hard
indisputable.
George Patterson
L
Like most things worthwhile in life,
Mother knows best Barbara Patterson, aka “Mom,” always believed attaining happiness in life requires purposeful action on your part.
and making smart, informed decisions.” 1. Know thyself. A huge part of
4. Get a good night’s sleep. This one is a no-brainer. Again,
jokester. His jokes were always clean
personal happiness is being involved
the medical research is indisputable.
but horribly corny. Grandpa Wilcox’s
in things that energize you and
A good night’s sleep cures a lot of ills.
cornball classics brought the greatest
give you a feeling of significance.
Turn off all electronic devices (yes,
joy to the joke teller because of the
Psychologists will tell you that
the TV, too!) at least an hour before
reaction they’d elicit from the receiver.
knowing your personality type
turning out the light. Mom grew
We’d groan initially when first told
is an important step to learning
up in Philadelphia, so often quoted
the joke but couldn’t wait to tell it
how you think and react to things.
that famous patriot, statesman,
ourselves. Mom’s favorite was: “What’s
Mom simply said, “Don’t try to be
philosopher and inventor, Benjamin
a small joke?” Answer: “A mini
somebody you’re not. Be yourself.”
Franklin. “Early to bed, early to rise,
ha-ha.” It’s bad corny, but admit it.
keeps a man healthy, wealthy and
You know you’re going to repeat it to
wise.”
someone.
2. Be thankful. Feeling a little down in the dumps? Psychologists often will recommend sitting down and making
5. Volunteer in your community.
a list of the things you’re thankful
You know you’ve experienced it.
moderation.” This simple yet universal
for. A handwritten list once a week, a
When we help others, it puts a smile
three-word truth is the statement
thankful prayer at bedtime: these are
on our face and makes us feel well.
of all statements that I’ll remember
things that can help lift your spirits.
There are so many in need. And you
my mother by more than any other.
Mom would say, “Quit complaining,
have so many talents that are needed,
Experience in the opposite direction
and count your blessings. You’ll be
so be generous. Mom always liked to
was the hard-learned lesson for me
surprised how good you’ve got it.”
say, “Be of service to others and you
before I took it to heart and got wise.
will serve yourself well.”
You can overdo everything no matter
3. Get some fresh air. For Mom that was code for “get outside and get
26
7. Don’t overdo it. “Everything in
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SAVE When You Grow A Zoysia Lawn From Plugs! Zoysia Lawns are thick, dense and lush!
GRASS SEED WILL NEVER GROW A LAWN LIKE THIS! Save Water! Save Time! Save Work! Save Money! Grass Seed Is For The Birds!
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Stop wasting money, time and work sowing new grass seed each spring, only to see birds eat the seed – or rain wash it away – Zoysia thrives in before it can root. Plant a partial shade to genuine Amazoy™ Zoysia full sun! lawn from our living Plugs only once… and never plant a new lawn again!
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Environmentally Friendly, No Chemicals Needed! No weeding means no chemicals. You’ll never have to spray poisonous pesticides and weed killers again! Zoysia lawns are safer for the environment, as well as for family and pets!
Zoysia Grows Where Other Grass Doesn’t!
Zoysia is the perfect choice for hard-to-cover spots, Cuts Watering & Mowing areas that are play-worn or have partial shade, and By As Much As 2/3! for stopping erosion on slopes. North, South, East, West – Zoysia will grow in any soil, no ifs, ands or buts! Many established Zoysia lawns only Each Zoysia Plug You Plant In Your Soil Is need to be GUARANTEED TO GROW mowed once or Within 45 Days Or We’ll Replace It FREE! twice a season. To ensure best results, we ship you living sheets of genuine Watering is rarely, We ship at the best Amazoy™ Zoysia Grass, harvested direct from our farms. Plugs are if ever, needed – not cut all the way through. Before planting, simply finish the planting time for you! separation by cutting 1"-sq. Plugs with shears or knife. Then follow even in summer! the included easy instructions to plant Plugs into small plug holes about a foot apart. Our guarantee and planting method are your assurance of lawn success backed by more than 5 decades of specialized lawn experience.
Meyer Zoysia Grass was perfected by the U.S. Gov’t, released in cooperation with the U.S. Golf Association as a superior grass.
©2013 Zoysia Farm Nurseries, 3617 Old Taneytown Rd, Taneytown, MD 21787
✂
Our Customers Love Their Zoysia Lawns! One of our typical customers, Mrs. M.R. Mitter of PA, wrote how “I’ve never watered it, only when I put the Plugs in… Last summer we had it mowed 2 times... When everybody’s lawns here are brown from drought, ours just stays as green as ever!”
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PLANTING TOOL With Order of 500 Plugs or More!
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Get Up To 900 Plugs — FREE! Please send me guaranteed Amazoy plug packs as marked:
Quantity
# PLUGS
+ FREE Plugs
__
150
Your PRICE
+ Shipping
$ 14.95
$ 5.00
YOU SAVE
__
+FREE
Planting Tool
__
Write price of order here
$
Free
Md. residents add 6% tax
$
Shipping
$
$ 45.60
$ 7.00
$27.20
Step-on Plugger
750
+ 150
$74.50
$10.00 FREE
$45.20
Step-on Plugger
1100
+ 400
$99.10
$15.00 FREE
$100.40
Free Amazoy Power Auger
1500
+ 900
$147.50
$25.00 FREE
$171.70
Free Amazoy Power Auger AND Step-on Plugger
500
+ 100
Free
ENCLOSED TOTAL Name Address City Zip
Dept. 5003
Payment method (check one) ❑ Check ❑ MO ❑ MasterCard ❑ Visa Exp. Date
$
Card #
❑ Extra Step-on Plugger $8.95 + $3 Shipping ❑ Extra Amazoy Power AugerTM for 3/8” Drill $24.95 +$5 Shipping Amazoy is the trademark registered U.S. Patent Office for our Meyer Zoysia grass.
Mail to: ZOYSIA FARM NURSERIES 3617 Old Taneytown Road, Taneytown, MD 21787
State Phone
We ship all orders the same day plugs are packed at earliest correct planting time in your area.
Order Now! www.ZoysiaFarms.com/mag
Not shipped outside the USA or into WA or OR
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