A PUBLICATION OF MISSISSIPPI FARM BUREAU FEDERATION VOL. 94, NO. 6 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 MSFB.ORG
C O N T E N T S VOLUME 94 NUMBER 6 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018
FEATURES
Mississippi Farm Country (ISSN 1529-9600) magazine is published bimonthly by the Mississippi Farm Bureau® Federation.
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Farm Bureau members receive this publication as part of their membership benefit. Periodicals postage is paid at Jackson, MS and at additional mailing offices.
STATE CONVENTION Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation will hold its annual membership meeting Dec. 1-3 in Jackson. To learn more, see the agenda of convention highlights inside.
Postmaster: Send address changes to P.O. Box 1972, Jackson, MS 39215 EDITORIAL AND BUSINESS OFFICES 6311 Ridgewood Road, Jackson, MS 39211 601-977-4153 EDITOR — Glynda Phillips ADVERTISING Angela Ellis 1-800-227-8244 ext. 4242 aellis@msfb.org
WE FARM. WE VOTE. Through our We Farm. We Vote. campaign, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation is encouraging all Mississippians, especially farmers and rural residents, to visit the polls on Nov. 6. Read about the campaign inside this issue.
FARM BUREAU OFFICERS President – Mike McCormick Vice President (North) – Donald Gant Vice President (Central) – Ted Kendall IV Vice President (South) – Reggie Magee Corporate Secretary – Kent Bloodworth Treasurer – Billy Davis FARM BUREAU DIRECTORS Jim Perkins, Tishomingo Mike Graves, Tippah B.A. Teague, Union Preston Arrington, Sunflower Mike Ferguson, Tate Neal Huskison, Pontotoc Jeffrey Tabb, Webster Joe Huerkamp, Noxubee Terry Wynne, Holmes James Rasberry, Attala Doug Wilkerson, Kemper Max Anderson, Newton Stanley Williams, Covington Josh Miller, Sharkey Tod Waltman, Copiah Noble Guedon, Adams Mike Keith, Lamar Larry Jefcoat, Jones Clifton Hicks, Greene Perry Meyers, Jackson Betty Mills, Montgomery William Tabb, Webster Material in this publication is based on what the editor believes to be reliable information. Neither Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation nor those individuals or organizations contributing to the MFBF publication assume any liability for errors that might go undetected in the publication — this includes statements in articles or advertisements that could lead to erroneous personal or business management decisions. FARM BUREAU,® FB® and all Farm Bureau logos used in this magazine are registered service marks owned by the American Farm Bureau Federation. They may not be used in any commercial manner without the prior written consent of the American Farm Bureau Federation.
24 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Farm Bureau scholarships have been awarded to a number of deserving students. Come with us as we meet these outstanding young men and women.
DEPARTMENTS 4 6 22 33
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE NATIONAL AFFAIRS REPORT NOTES FROM THE FIELD MEMBER BENEFITS
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RECIPES Enjoy the recipes from “Country Cooking, Vol. V.” Sales of this cookbook generate funds for the Ag in the Classroom program. Cookbooks are available at most county offices.
30 & 31 ABOUT THE COVER Inside this issue, Fayla Guedon talks about the importance of voting on Nov. 6. She and her husband, Noble, grow row crops in Adams County and the surrounding area. Photo by Noble Guedon. MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY
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P R E S I D E N T’S
M E S S A G E
Promise Me You Will Vote One morning not long after my 18th birthday, as my father and I were driving to one of our fields, he took a right turn instead of the familiar left turn, and we ended up at the courthouse so I could register to vote. Dad had been a sailor who was put on a landing craft for the invasion of Japan during World War II. Mike McCormick He told me, “I served my country so President, Mississippi that you would always have the right Farm Bureau Federation to vote. Promise me you will make an effort to vote to honor me and the sacrifice I made for this great nation of ours.” Needless to say, I vote every chance I get, and I feel bad if I miss an opportunity. I vote to honor my father, but I also vote to support my community, my state and my nation. It is a responsibility I will never take lightly. What I don’t understand is voter apathy. So much depends on a strong voter turnout at the polls. If you don’t vote, then you can’t complain about our leadership or the direction our state or nation is headed. The general election this fall is critical, not only for our farmers and rural communities, but for all Mississippians. We must send qualified, capable men and women to Congress who are willing to tackle the issues that matter most in our lives. Experience, a good work ethic, a solid farm background and a deep love of Mississippi are important elements to consider when casting your vote on Nov. 6. This year, our Public Policy program put together a We Farm. We Vote. campaign to generate interest in the election process. This issue of our magazine is dedicated to that effort. Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Policy Development Coordinator Kevin Brown, who is helping to organize the campaign, leads off with his thoughts about the importance of voting. His column is followed by articles featuring six Farm Bureau
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members, most of them longtime volunteer leaders, who talk about the importance of letting your voice be heard at the ballot box. I hope you will be inspired by their words. And speaking of this final issue of the calendar year, I want to encourage you to express your appreciation to our longtime editor, Glynda Phillips, for her many years of dedicated service to Farm Bureau. She will be retiring at the end of the year, and her hard work and devotion have always been self-evident. Over the course of almost two decades, our membership magazine has proven to be popular with both Farm Bureau members and nonmembers alike. It has been displayed in offices, handed out at fairs and passed out at meetings across the state. Before the magazine, our editor was responsible for the official membership newspaper, Mississippi Farm Bureau News. Mississippi Farm Country will continue with a new editor, and I know you will enjoy it just as much as you have enjoyed it these past 19 years. We wish for our retiring editor all the best with this new and exciting chapter in her life. In conclusion, it’s hard to believe that another year has come and gone. As our harvesting efforts wind down and the holiday season approaches, let’s remember to give thanks for our nation’s farmers and for the many men and women who work so hard together to strengthen our farming industry. Let’s also give thanks for the many freedoms we enjoy as Americans. Here in America, we have an opportunity to dream big and build a successful life for ourselves and our families. In addition, through the years, we have built a nation that is the envy of the world. Let’s make sure that voter apathy doesn’t jeopardize this. As a lifelong farmer and my father’s son, I plan to visit the polls on Nov. 6, and I hope to see you there. Together — from North Mississippi to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and all points in between — let’s speak with one loud, clear and informed voice in support of our farmers, rural communities and this wonderful state we love so much. We Farm. We Vote. FB
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NATIONAL AFFAIRS REPORT ★
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
BY JUSTIN FERGUSON Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation National Affairs Coordinator & Commodity Coordinator for Major Row Crops
Newsletter Keeps You Informed Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation sends out a national affairs newsletter twice a month to keep you informed about what is happening in Washington, D.C. It is the news you need to know, and if you don't already receive it, you may contact the state Public Policy office or your regional manager for more information. The first of these redesigned newsletters debuted in August and September, touching on topics ranging from trade and environmental regulations to Farm Bill issues and more. Look for additional newsletters in the coming months. In the news recently was a special recognition for members of our congressional delegation. Every two-year session of Congress, the America Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) monitors the voting records of U.S House and Senate members on key legislative priorities for America’s farmers and ranchers. AFBF presents its “Friend of Farm Bureau” award at the end of Congress to those members who have a consistent, strong record of supporting legislation and priorities for the agriculture industry. The following members of the Mississippi Congressional Delegation have received recognition for the 115th Congress: Sen. Thad Cochran, Sen. Roger Wicker, Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, Rep. Trent Kelly, Rep. Gregg Harper and Rep. Steven Palazzo. Lawmakers were scored on the following key pieces of legislation during the 115th Congress: House Votes: (H.R.5) - Regulatory Accountability Act of 2017 Approval; (H.R. 1) Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 Approval; (H.R.
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1892) Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 or the FY2018 Appropriations to the Department of Agriculture (USDA) Approval; (H.R. 2) the Agriculture and Nutrition Act or the 2018 Farm Bill Approval; and (H.R. 8) the Water Resources Development Act Approval. Senate Votes: (PN90) Sonny Perdue to be Secretary of Agriculture Approval; (PN44) Scott Pruitt of Oklahoma to be Administrator of EPA Approval; (PN55) Neil M. Gorsuch of Colorado to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the U.S. Approval; (PN42) Robert Lighthizer to be the U.S. Trade Representative Approval; (H.R. 1) Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Approval; (H.R. 1892) Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 or the FY2018 Appropriations to the Department of Agriculture (USDA) Approval; (H.R.2) The Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 or the 2018 Farm Bill Approval; and the defeat of the Booker-Lee Amendment (3042) to the 2018 Farm Bill. Have Any Questions? For more information, contact: Justin Ferguson National Affairs Coordinator (601) 720-4238 jferguson@msfb.org Also, check out the article inside this issue on our 2019 Winter Commodity Conference scheduled for late January. FB
*Due to Cochran’s retirement and the appointment of Hyde-Smith in April 2018, Hyde-Smith was scored only on the last two votes in the Senate vote list.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018
MFBF Annual Meeting
The annual membership meeting of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation is set for Dec. 1-3 at the Hilton Jackson hotel in Jackson. The General Store, Women’s Programs’ pergola swing raffle and Young Farmers & Ranchers’ live and silent auctions will be held throughout convention. Santa will visit for photos Sunday morning, following the Worship Service. At presstime, here’s a schedule of the other highlights.
SATURDAY, DEC. 1
9 a.m.
10:30 a.m. Ag in the Classroom Roundtable
10:45 a.m. Worship Service – Mustard Seed’s Bells of Faith
1 p.m.
General Session – Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Ambassador Competition
3 p.m.
YF&R Discussion Meet Finals
1:30 p.m.
General Session – Keynote Speaker is Patrick Henry. Presentations will be made to Mississippi Pennies and to the Farm Woman of the Year, Excellence in Leadership and Distinguished Service award recipients.
4 p.m.
Farm-to-Table Cooking
4 p.m.
Farm Bureau Reception
6 p.m.
County Farm Bureau Awards & Recognition Dinner
8 p.m.
YF&R Alumni Reception
5:30 p.m. General Session – Presentations will be made to the YF&R Discussion Meet winner and to the Excellence in Agriculture and YF&R Achievement Award recipients.
SUNDAY, DEC. 2
7 a.m.
Women’s Recognition Breakfast
9 a.m.
Women’s Business Session
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Market Outlook
MONDAY, DEC. 3 8 a.m.
Business Session
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POLICY DEVELOPMENT REVIEW ★
★ ★ ★ ★
BY KEVIN BROWN
Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Policy Development Coordinator
We Farm. We Vote. A simple point to promote a greater ideal. The right to vote is not expressly granted in the Constitution, but it is addressed in the 15th, 19th, 24th and 26th amendments. These amendments allow any individual, age 18 and over, to actively participate in the political decision-making process, regardless of race, sex or the failure to pay any poll tax. Voting is more than a right, though. In a democratic society, it is the citizens’ responsibility to vote in elections. This responsibility should not be taken for granted or diminished. The vote of a street vendor counts as much as the vote of a millionaire. The right to vote is the right to determine who governs, from the county to Washington D.C. The agriculture industry is the backbone of Mississippi. From cotton fields in the Delta to soybeans and corn in the Black Prairie to poultry, cattle and timber producers across the state, agriculture touches every aspect of life in Mississippi. It’s time that rural Mississippi makes its voice heard. It doesn’t matter what political party you align with or what candidate you support. What matters is that you take the time to go to the polls. Voter turnout has declined over the past few years, and voter apathy in the June primary elections was high. Rural Mississippi cannot afford to look the other way and ignore its responsibility to vote. The day I turned 18, I registered to vote. This served as the most important event to happen to me in 2001 — even more so than graduating high school and beginning college. This was my opportunity to participate in the political decision-making process. This was my opportunity to take advantage of the freedoms that so many veterans died for in wars before my time. Since that day, I continue to uphold my responsibility to vote. The political landscape can sometimes leave a person with much to be desired, but the only way to change that is to participate. Whether it be for county supervisors, state representatives, U.S. senators or the president of the United States, make sure your voice is heard by voting. Farming was once considered a simple way of life, but in today’s
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world, that is rarely the case. Technology, global markets and regulations have transformed the simple way of life into a fast-paced and ever-changing industry. Despite the changes, Mississippi’s farm families continue to adapt, and agriculture continues to serve as the No. 1 industry in the state. Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation knows it must repeatedly strive to be the voice of agriculture in Mississippi. We look to you — our lawmakers, members and neighbors — to join us in driving our state and nation forward. As we approach the November elections and embark on the 2019 statewide election, do your part as citizens of rural Mississippi. We Farm. We Vote. is about more than just agriculture policy and issues. Agriculture is rural Mississippi. And, whether you farm or not, as a citizen of rural Mississippi, the policies that affect agriculture will affect you. Join us in fighting for the rights and privileges we enjoy as farmers, ranchers and rural citizens of our state. Farm Bureau is the voice of agriculture in Mississippi. Our mission is to create an environment in which Mississippi farmers, ranchers and Farm Bureau members can have a better life and make a better living. By accepting the responsibility of voting and participating in the election process that so many brave souls have lost their lives to defend, you can help us achieve that goal. Help us take up the fight for rural Mississippi’s rights by getting involved with We Farm. We Vote. Use your social media presence to promote the voice of rural Mississippi. Your voice matters, and people want to hear what you have to say. You have the power to connect individuals across the state with a simple post or comment. Ask your local regional manager what you can do to get more involved. If you don’t know who your regional manager is, stop by or call your county Farm Bureau office and ask. Put a sign up in your yard or slap a sticker on the back of your car or trailer. Get creative and help us promote We Farm. We Vote. across the state as we head into election season. Use your voice to speak up for rural Mississippi. We Farm. We Vote. FB
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Make Sure Your Voice Is Heard Fayla Guedon and her husband, Noble, grow row crops in Adams
County and the surrounding area. Noble is a fifth-generation farmer whose family has been farming since 1861. The couple currently grows rice, soybeans and corn. “I don’t come from a farming family, but I grew up near the Delta, where I was exposed to the many aspects of farming,” Fayla said. “I’ve had a sense of respect and appreciation for the agriculture industry from an early age.” Fayla says a lot of pride comes from being a farmer’s wife. “I get to work in a partnership with my husband, where we take a seed, plant it in bare ground, and then nurture it all year long,” she said. “We get to watch it grow from a small seedling into a maturing crop. It is very similar to having children. You watch them grow from babies into adults. You stay with them as they grow up. You nurture them and watch them mature. “We pray over our fields together, just like we pray over our children. Checking the fields together and having long conversations on the tractors and combines has become a way of life for us. It’s who we are, and I wouldn’t want to trade it for anything.” Fayla notes that the job that farmers do is very important to the U.S. economy. “Only 1 or 2% of the U.S. population produces food for everyone else,” she said. “If farmers don’t speak up and let their voices be heard by voting, we could get “swept under the rug,” and the way we produce our food could be affected. “Noble and I are teaching our children that voting is not only a privilege provided to us by those who fought for it in previous generations, it is also a responsibility,” she said. “We are the ones responsible for making sure our voices are heard, so get out and VOTE on Nov. 6.” We Farm. We Vote. FB
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Your Vote Matters Bobby Moody is a Winston County row crop, cattle and poultry farmer
who served for 21 sessions in the Mississippi House of Representatives. He knows how important it is to have lawmakers who understand and appreciate agriculture. “Our Legislature has moved from being the rural/agricultural Legislature of the early 1900s to our present Legislature, where farmers are a distinct minority,” he said. “How the challenges facing agriculture are addressed by the people who serve in our Legislature will be critical to our success as Mississippi farmers. A strong agriculture benefits our rural communities.” Bobby says challenges facing today’s farmers include volatility in commodity prices; ever-escalating input costs; aging farmers and a dwindling number of farmers; and consumers who have grown three to four generations removed from agriculture. “We must speak up and tell our story,” he said. “If we don’t, someone else will tell it for us, and they might not get their facts straight. “We must also send the right men and women to Washington. They must have a farming background, a strong work ethic and a concern not only for farmers but for the state of Mississippi as a whole, particularly rural Mississippi. “For almost five decades, we had someone meeting that description representing us in Washington,” he said. “Yes, we have lawmakers who are approaching Thad Cochran’s level of seniority and who possess his strong work ethic and concern for farmers, but this is the first time we don’t have someone with Thad’s 46 years of service and his level of influence and power. “This will affect everyone.” Bobby says he has never missed an opportunity to vote, and he hopes he never will. “Don’t think that one vote doesn’t matter,” he said. “During my time in the Mississippi Legislature, I saw many instances when legislation got passed or defeated by one vote. Your vote truly does make a difference. “I plan to vote on Nov. 6, and I encourage you to do the same.” We Farm. We Vote. FB
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See You at the Polls Dwight Jackson is a fifth-generation Kemper County cattle and timber
farmer whose family has farmed in the Preston area ever since his great-great-grandfather bought land there after the Civil War. He has also worked for the USDANatural Resources Conservation Service for 35 years. “My grandfather gave me a heifer calf when I was six years old, and I have owned cattle since that day,” Dwight said. “I know how important it is to have lawmakers who understand the issues that matter to farmers.” Some of those issues include animal activists who attempt to tell the farmer’s story and don’t have correct information; the growing number of complex rules and regulations farmers are required to follow each year; rising input costs; and the uncertainty of markets. “We need lawmakers who understand that farming is a business. They must also understand that our industry’s success or failure has a direct impact on our rural communities, our state and our nation,” he said. “In addition, we need people who are passionate about helping us preserve our natural resources — for now and the future.” Dwight says the low to nonexistent markets for pine pulpwood is another important issue for all Mississippi farmers, but especially for those who farm in the eastern area of the state. “We need more paper mills for use with that product,” he said. “We have a lot of timber that is 19 or 20 years old that hasn’t been thinned, because there’s no market for it.” Dwight, who serves on the Kemper County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, knows how important Farm Bureau is to farmers. “Farm Bureau stays on top of issues that affect farmers and is in constant contact with lawmakers and other government officials,” he said. “I appreciate that Farm Bureau has initiated a campaign to encourage farmers and rural Mississippians to vote on Nov. 6. “I plan to exercise my right to vote, and I hope to see you at the polls.” We Farm. We Vote. FB
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Our Most Cherished Liberty Betsy Lipscomb of Claiborne County is a retired veterinarian who prac-
ticed for 34 years. During that time, she also raised beef cattle. Today, she is a fulltime cattle rancher. “I grew up on a cattle operation, and I’ve been doing this all of my life,” Betsy said. “I come from a long line of livestock producers, so agriculture is deeply ingrained in me. But you are removed from agriculture only as far as your next meal. “Beef producers only ask for a chance to be able to compete fairly in the marketplace,” she said. “Our government sets policy that controls our market and our trading opportunities and obstacles. This, along with environmental policy, tax policy and a host of other issues, affects our ability to be productive.” Betsy says many battles have been fought for our freedoms and for our right to vote. “Our right to vote is, without a doubt, our most cherished liberty,” she said. “Our government is us. We vote for and elect the people we think will make the wisest decisions for us. If your elected officials, from your hometown to Washington, D.C., are not living up to their oath of office or their campaign platform, you have a chance to correct that in four years. This is why your vote is important. “American farmers and ranchers feed our nation and the rest of the world. Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation appreciates that fact. Farm Bureau has a long history of stepping up to the plate on local, state and federal issues that affect the beef producers of Mississippi, and the beef producers in this state appreciate Mississippi Farm Bureau. “Yes, your vote matters,” she said. “Study the candidates. Find the candidate who best exemplifies your views, your vision, your values, and vote. I am a farmer, and I intend to vote on Nov. 6. “We the people.” We Farm. We Vote. FB
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Lawmakers Must Understand Agriculture Brian Rhodes is a third-generation Pelahatchie poultry and cattle farmer
who knows how crucial it is that lawmakers understand the challenges farmers face each year as they go about the process of growing our nation’s safe, abundant and affordable supply of food, fiber and fuel. It isn’t easy. “Today’s livestock farmers must deal with animal rights groups who don’t have their facts straight about how we raise our animals,” Brian said. “Input costs can be expensive at times, and we must often deal with disease and the issue of biosecurity. I have friends who raise chickens in their backyard. I understand that this is a popular thing to do right now, but I also think this “fad” often makes things more dangerous for those of us who raise chickens commercially under strict guidelines.” Antibiotic use in animals has also become a controversial issue. “Some livestock producers have begun raising antibiotic-free animals,” Brian said. “What consumers need to know is that farmers only use antibiotics when their animals are sick or hurt. There is also a long period of withdrawal from antibiotics before the animal is processed for consumption.” Brian says Farm Bureau is great at putting together factual information about farming. “We have meetings that give farmers an opportunity to talk about important issues,” he said. “Special events like Ag Day at the Capitol and the Washington D.C. Fly-In allow us to meet face to face with our lawmakers and share our concerns. We also spearhead the successful Farm Families of Mississippi® Agriculture Promotion Campaign. “Farm Bureau is fighting for farmers. I don’t know why ALL farmers aren’t members,” he said. “I also don’t understand why more people don’t exercise their right to vote. We must have people representing us in Jackson and Washington who understand what farmers need in order to do their jobs well. Our rural communities, our state and our nation depend on a strong agriculture industry.” Brian encourages you to vote on Nov. 6. We Farm. We Vote. FB
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The Best Farmers Vote Tom Withers is a field agronomist and crop advisor in Tunica County.
He keeps in touch with local row crop growers and stays ahead of their needs for seed, farm chemicals and fertilizer. He also troubleshoots problems in their fields — whether it is fertility, insects, disease or weeds. “I’ve been doing this for 17 years, and it’s all that I ever wanted to do with my life,” Tom said. “I grew up on a farm that my cousin now runs. My dad was a catfish farmer who helped pioneer the production of U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish in Mississippi. In addition to my job, I have honey bees, chickens, melons and a vegetable garden.” Tom says the upcoming farm bill is a huge concern for farmers in his area of the state. “Every time a new farm bill comes out, we need to make sure it contains legislation that is pro-ag and will help our row crop farmers remain profitable,” he said. “We are also in the midst of a technological revolution in farming. We have tools at our disposable farmers never dreamed of having 10 years ago. These tools help us farm efficiently, but we must ensure they are also good for our environment. “The best farmers are innovative, open to new technologies, and aren’t stuck in the past,” he said. “They also care about the environment and are good stewards of the land.” Tom doesn’t farm full-time, but he paid his Farm Bureau dues and joined because he has a deep respect for our organization. He says Farm Bureau keeps agriculture in the minds of lawmakers. “We educate them, we visit them, and we make noise, so they will hear our side of the issues and vote in our favor,” he said. “A strong agriculture industry is good, not only for farmers but for our rural communities, our state and our nation.” Remember to vote on Nov. 6. We Farm. We Vote. FB
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NOTES FROM THE FIELD ★
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
BY ANDY BROWN
Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Region 1 Regional Manager
Trust the Process If you’re a sports fan like me, you’ve likely heard a coach or team executive use the phrase “trust the process” in an attempt to ease the minds of worried supporters. Recently, the Philadelphia 76ers all but trademarked the phrase in their often ugly, but ultimately historic, rebuild of a basketball franchise. Mississippi athletic coaches have said the same at press conferences, likely even down to team meetings for pee wee football in your community. Trusting the process is every coach’s request of their players and supporters. Trust. Believe. Buy-in. These are all principles that we cling to in hopes that our team will get better the next season. Or look beyond sports. Trust your pastor that the church will grow. Believe your financial advisor that an investment will be profitable. Buy-in to your professor’s plan that your course of study will leave you better educated. In many areas of life, we are asked to trust the process. Do we no longer have that trust in our system of government? At Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, we are still fighting every day to be a part of that process, both within our own membership and as a voice to lawmakers on the local, state and national levels. Mississippi Farm Bureau’s process is all about taking one farmer’s idea or concern, weighing that against the concerns and ideas of his/ her peers, and then carrying the solution for that concern (through our policy book) to legislators and congressmen to be accomplished in law. This is done by our active members — the farmers and ranchers of Mississippi. However, that system relies on one very important factor: relationships. Through YOUR relationship with YOUR elected officials, we can make this greater voice heard. That is why we are placing so much emphasis on the We Farm. We Vote. campaign. Without your vote, your freedoms and your civic duty to be connected to the lawmaking process, Farm Bureau and rural Americans lose their voice. It is understandable why many have lost faith in the lawmaking process, with political interference and lack of accomplishment at 22
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times from political leaders. There is distrust, disapproval or disgust from someone, somewhere, with every decision that is made. Even many politicians have grown weary of the constant undesirable discourse across party lines or from interest groups. But we must remember that these elected officials are people, too. This is why it is even more important now to not just “trust the process” but to be a part of it. Former U.S. President Harry S. Truman stated, “Men make history and not the other way around. In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better.” So the time is now. The moment is here. Leaders are needed, and Mississippi Farm Bureau is here to help you become that leader in whatever scope you choose to explore. We are looking to seize the moment, within this system we call democracy. But it starts with you. It starts with your vote. It starts with selecting those leaders who are still faithful to this country and its backbone of farming by providing for itself through food, fiber and shelter production. It also takes leaders within Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation. We need more young people looking to serve and make a difference. We need to maintain participation from those who are involved and have years of wisdom to pass on. We also need new ideas and programs to continue growing forward, both in membership numbers and in membership diversity. These are all principles MFBF President Mike McCormick, our vice presidents and our board of directors are looking to advance within our organization. Without “the process” of democracy, we would not have the greatest country in the world, nor would we be the greatest agricultural system in the world. With freedom comes responsibility. Please join with us in November at the polls, but always join us through your time spent volunteering to make your county, Mississippi and the United States of America a better place. We Farm. We Vote. FB NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018
New Year’s Black-Eyed Pea Bowl
Pimento Cheese
Shrimp Spread
1 lb. ground hot sausage, cooked and drained 4 c. black-eyed peas (2 cans or 1-lb. bag, cooked) 1 med. onion, chopped 1 med. red, green or orange pepper, chopped 1 clove garlic 3 cans Ro-Tel tomatoes with juice 2 tsp. chili powder 1 tsp. black pepper
3 (8-oz.) pkgs. sharp cheddar cheese, grated ½ c. mayonnaise 2 (4-oz.) jars pimento, chopped ½ c. green onions, tops and bottoms, chopped ½ c. pecans, chopped (optional) 2 (4-oz.) cans ripe olives, chopped
1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened ½ c. sour cream ¼ c. mayonnaise 1 c. seafood cocktail sauce 2 c. mozzarella cheese, shredded 1 lb. shrimp, cooked and peeled 3 green onions, sliced ¾ c. tomato, finely chopped
Blend all ingredients, adding mayonnaise Mix all ingredients together and simmer slowly to desired thickness. This can also be used for one hour. Serve as a hearty soup with corn- as a dip with chips. bread or as a dip served with corn chips. Peggy McKey Hinds County
Lil Gant Bolivar County
Combine the cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise in a bowl and beat until smooth. Spread on a 12-inch round serving platter. Layer the cocktail sauce, cheese, shrimp, green onions and tomato over the cream cheese mixture. Cover and chill until serving time. Serve with chips. Yields 12 servings. Shelby Williams Covington County
COUNTRY COOKING, VOLUME V: These recipes are from “Country Cooking, Volume V,” available at most county offices. The cost is $20. If you order a cookbook from the state office, you will pay $20 plus postage. For more information, contact Pam Jones at (601) 977-4854. 24
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018
Federation welcomes new staff member
Alexandra “Alex” Lowery has joined the staff of Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation as a print media specialist and writer. She is responsible for all of the print materials distributed by the Federation, including Mississippi Farm Country. She also writes articles and assists in managing the website and social media channels. Alex previously served as a communications and marketing specialist for the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce. She received her bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications and journalism from Texas A&M University. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in public relations and corporate communication from Mississippi College. Alex and her husband, Ky, live on their farm in Wesson. Please join us in welcoming Alex into our Farm Bureau family.
CALENDAR of EVENTS NOV. 1 Washington D.C. Fly-In to the Farm Ag Museum, Jackson NOV. 2 State Resolutions Meeting Jackson NOV. 17 MFBF Tailgate Hosted by YF&R MSU DEC. 1-3 MFBF Convention Jackson JAN. 11-16 AFBF Annual Convention New Orleans JAN. 28-29 Winter Commodity Conference Jackson
JAN. 28
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“Cowpen Creek Farm raises Pineywoods cattle, Gulf Coast Native sheep and Pine Tacky horses. I’m the tenth-generation farmer to work these livestock.” - Jess Brown
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ISES AWAR A R N EN O I E UN
OF LANDRACE LIVESTOCK B Y A L E X L O W E R Y, M I S S I S S I P P I FA R M B U R E A U F E D E R AT I O N P R I N T M E D I A S P E C I A L I S T/W R I T E R
Down Mississippi Highway 59, just outside of Poplarville, lies “They’ve adapted to be able to handle our Mississippi heat and a piece of land with herds of livestock and generations of people insects,” Jess said. “They are similar to Brahman cattle with their heat with a rich history. The land sits covered in pine trees, towering over and insect resistance.” the unique livestock taking cover under their shade. Generations of Pineywoods cattle are a variety of colors and can weigh between 500 family members gather around an old barn at Cowpen Creek Farm, and 1,200 pounds. Gulf Coast Native sheep are primarily white and laughing, reminiscing and celebrating the generations before them. can weigh between 75 and 150 pounds. Colonial Spanish/Pine Tacky Ninth-generation farmer Billy Frank Brown horses are small-framed, weigh approximately 600 greets people as they drive up, welcoming them to 800 pounds and stand around 14 hands tall. to Cowpen Creek Farm’s Open Range Reunion. The Open Range Reunion served as a way Billy Frank’s wife and son, Julie and Jess Brown, to bring together generations of the Ladner and begin telling relatives about their family history Brown families, as well as the families of those as they check in for a day of fellowship. who worked on the farm for Sebron Ladner. “Cowpen Creek Farm raises Pineywoods “We wanted to get all of the older folks cattle, Gulf Coast Native sheep and Pine Tacky together that worked with my great-grandfahorses,” Jess said. “I’m the tenth-generation ther to talk about the memories they have here farmer to work these livestock.” and teach the younger generations what it was Cowpen Creek Farm serves as one of the like to work here,” Jess said. oldest homesteads in Pearl River County and is During the early 1900s, Sebron harvested home to herds of cattle, sheep and horses, which longleaf pine for Hines Lumber Company. He are descendants of original livestock brought to also raised approximately 1,000 head of Pineythe area by Spanish explorers in the 1500s. The Jess, Julie and Billy Frank Brown are the ninth woods cattle, 4,000 head of Gulf Coast Native current homestead on the farm, once known has and tenth generations of farmers in their family sheep and 40 head of Pine Tacky horses. to raise Pineywoods cattle, Gulf Coast Native the Sebron Ladner Place, was established in 1811 sheep and Pine Tacky horses. One of the reasons the Browns wanted by Carlos Ladner, Jess’ fourth great-grandfather. to host a reunion of Sebron’s family and his “Although Carlos Ladner settled this place, my family began rais- employees’ families was to raise awareness of the Landrace livestock. ing livestock before that,” Jess said. “Once these livestock bloodlines are gone, you can’t get them Nicholas Christian Ladner, the family’s first-generation farmer, back,” Jess said. “These livestock are on the endangered species list. raised cattle and sheep in present-day Pass Christian and Long Beach We want to keep these bloodlines going. It’s important to share with in the early 1700s. The livestock bloodlines of the Browns’ cattle are the next generations.” descendants of those raised by Nicholas. In an effort to preserve the bloodlines of the Pineywoods cattle, Throughout Cowpen Creek Farm’s ten-generation genealogy, the Gulf Coast Native sheep and Pine Tacky horses, Billy Frank assisted Landrace livestock have adapted to the Gulf Coast region. They are in promoting a resolution to acknowledge them as the official heriknown for their ability to survive in harsh and humid conditions. tage breeds of cattle, horse and sheep in Mississippi. The resolution Opposite top: Family and friends reminisced about old times at the Sebron Ladner Place (Cowpen Creek Farm) during the Open Range Reunion. Opposite bottom: Pineywoods cattle are a variety of colors and can weigh between 500 and 1,200 pounds. They are known for their ability to survive in harsh and humid conditions. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018
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was adopted during the 2017 Session of the Mississippi Legislature. In addition to using the Open Range Reunion as a way to educate younger generations on the importance of the Landrace livestock heritage, the Browns used it as a way to honor those who served the United States. “We also wanted to honor all of the service members in our family with a memorial service, because without them we wouldn’t be able to do what we do,” Jess said. Throughout the day, blacksmithing, cooking, sheep shearing,
oxen driving and several more demonstrations took place to replicate farm life during Sebron’s time. The Sons of Confederate Veterans conducted living history displays about camp life, flags, muskets and cannons. The group also participated in the memorial service ceremony with Billy Frank to honor those who have and are serving to protect our country. “We hope to continue hosting days to teach people about the Pineywoods cattle, Gulf Coast Native sheep and Pine Tacky horses, and remember those who came before us,” Jess said. FB
Family and friends had an opportunity to visit during the reunion.
General Store at State Convention The Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Women’s Programs will again offer a General Store at state convention. The store always offers a variety of inter28
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esting items for sale. This year, the stock will include T-shirts, cookbooks, the 2019 Ag Art Calendar, canned goods, jewelry, homemade candy and more.
All funds raised will benefit the Ag in the Classroom program. For more information, contact Pam Jones at (601) 977-4854. FB NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018
2018 Berta White Scholarship
The $3,000 Berta White Scholarship is annually presented by the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Women’s Programs to four deserving female college students in Mississippi. Students who received the scholarship in 2018 are, from left, Raegan Ramage of Lafayette County; Jessica Simmerman of Quitman County; Molly McKeown of Montgomery County; and Charlsie Hicks of Greene County. Scholarship recipients are pictured following a luncheon at the MFBF Building in Jackson. FB
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2018-2019 Young Farmers & Ranchers Foundation Recipients
Madeline Poss Oktibbeha County MSU $3,000 Hugh Arant Scholarship
Seth Walters Jones County MSU $3,000 Don Waller Scholarship
Tyler Fortenberry Lowndes County MSU $3,000 YF&R Scholarship
Haven Sims Jones County MSU $3,000 David Waide Scholarship
Clemmie Weddle Calhoun County MSU $3,000 YF&R Scholarship
Courtney Fancher Oktibbeha County MSU $3,000 YF&R Scholarship
Mikayla Shelton Calhoun County NEMCC $3,000 YF&R Scholarship
David Waide Veterinary Scholarship
Recipients of the David Waide Veterinary Scholarship for 2018 are Alexis Dodson of Oxford and Chelsea Freeman of Hernando. The $5,000 scholarship, established in 2015, is presented annually to two fourth-year students who are enrolled full-time in the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine and who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, good moral character and a desire to practice production animal medicine in the state of Mississippi. Alexis plans to work at Pontotoc Animal Clinic in Pontotoc, and Chelsea plans to work at Singing River Animal Clinic in Lucedale. FB NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018
Alexis Dodson
Chelsea Freeman
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County Annual Meetings
2019 Winter Commodity Conference The 2019 Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Winter Commodity Conference will be held Jan. 28-29 at the MFBF Building in Jackson. The annual Legislative Reception is scheduled for the evening of Jan. 28. Make plans now to attend. More details will be made available as the conference draws closer. For more information, contact Nancy Britt at (601) 977-4230.
Newton County Farm Bureau Thursday, Oct. 18, at 6:30 p.m. Coastal Plain Branch Experiment Station Newton Attala County Farm Bureau Tuesday, Nov. 6, at 6 p.m. Carmack Fish House 24973 Highway 35 Vaiden Montgomery County Farm Bureau Tuesday, Nov. 13, at 6:30 p.m. Farm Bureau Office Winona Noxubee County Farm Bureau Thursday, Nov. 15, at 7 p.m. Noxubee County Civic Center Macon 32
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See Page 33 for Member Benefits!
Ag Book of the Year
The 2018 Ag Book of the Year is “First Peas to the Table” by Susan Grigsby, illustrated by Nicole Tadgell. Thomas Jefferson loved to garden. In the spring, he and his neighbors competed to see whose peas would be ready to eat first. Two hundred years later, Maya’s class is having its own First Peas to the Table garden contest. Will a secret tip from Thomas Jefferson help Maya win? This lighthearted classroom story presents scientific and historical information and appealing watercolors with botanical accuracy sure to delight gardeners of any age! “First Peas to the Table” sells for $10 and includes a teacher’s guide. To order, call Pam Jones at (601) 977-4854. FB 34
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Farm Bureau Chicks & MS Ag T-Shirts Comfort Color Farm Bureau Chicks T-shirts are available in a mustard color. Short-sleeved tees are $12, and longsleeved tees are $18. Sizes small to 3XL. Comfort Color Mississippi Ag T-shirts are available in watermelon and Flo Blue. Short-sleeved tees are $18, and long-sleeved tees are $23. Sizes small to 3XL. To order, contact Pam Jones at (601) 977-4854 or email her at pjones@msfb.org. FB NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018
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