Mississippi Farm Country

VOLUME 92 NO. 4

JULY/AUGUST 2016

The Farming Dream

A PUBLICATION OF MISSISSIPPI FARM BUREAU FEDERATION • MSFB.ORG

C O N T E N T S

july /august 2016 Volume 92 Number 4 July/August 2016

FEATURES

8

Mississippi Farm Country (ISSN 1529-9600) magazine is published bimonthly by the Mississippi Farm Bureau® Federation.

Farm Bureau members receive this publication as part of their membership benefit. Periodicals postage is paid at Jackson, MS and at additional mailing offices.

LEGISLATIVE NEWS The 2016 Regular Session of the Mississippi Legislature passed a number of bills of interest to Farm Bureau members and Mississippi agriculture. Read about the session inside this issue.

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

FARM FACTS Shelby and Marlo Beason operate a small dairy on their Beason Family Farm in Neshoba County. Meet the Beasons in our “Farm Facts: Straight from a Mississippi Farmer” column.

EDITOR — Glynda Phillips ADVERTISING Angela Ellis 1-800-227-8244 ext. 4242 aellis@msfb.org FARM BUREAU OFFICERS President — Mike McCormick Vice President — Donald Gant Vice President — Ted Kendall IV Vice President — Reggie Magee Treasurer — Billy Davis Corporate Secretary — Kent Bloodworth

16

FARM BUREAU DIRECTORS Carla Taylor, Prentiss Matt Ormon, Benton Jeffrey (Jeff) Hollowell, Lafayette Bob Workman, Quitman Gabriela Brasher, Tallahatchie Dan L. Bishop, Lee Scott O’Brian, Clay Craig Canull, Lowndes David Hayward, Grenada Dott G. Arthur, Leake William Jones, Lauderdale Paul Myrick, Jasper James R. Ford, Smith James G. “Jimbo” Newman, Issaquena Tammy Layton, Simpson Earl Gay Edwards, Amite Everett A. “Pud” Stringer, Marion Dot Cole, Perry Clayton Lawrence Jr., George Tom Daniels, Harrison Betty Mills, Montgomery David Arant Jr., Leflore

FARM BUREAU ACTIVITIES

Photo coverage of spring Farm Bureau activities can be found throughout this issue.

14 RECIPES Each issue, we feature recipes from “Country Cooking, Volume V.” The proceeds from the sale of this cookbook are used to strengthen the Ag in the Classroom program in Mississippi.

22

HONORARY VICE PRESIDENT Louis J. Breaux III 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.

DEPARTMENTS

4 5 6 8

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE MEMBER BENEFITS NATIONAL AFFAIRS REPORT

ABOUT THE COVER Terry Moore is pictured on his Holmes County farm, the realization of a longheld dream.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

3

P R E S I D E N T’S M E S S A G E Mike McCormick –President, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation

Farm Bureau Proud In recent weeks, as members of our state convention committee tossed around possible themes for our upcoming membership meeting in December, one of the things we talked about was that fantastic American Farm Bureau Federation slogan: “Farm Bureau Proud.” When I hear those words, I always smile. I am so proud to be a Farm Bureau member.

I joined Farm Bureau as a young farmer, aware of its reputation as an effective voice for agriculture. It wasn’t long before I was sitting on the board of directors of Jefferson County Farm Bureau, and in more recent years, serving as county president and as a district director. I quickly became a passionate Farm Bureau supporter, and here is why.

Through the years, I have watched Farm Bureau grow and strengthen, both in numbers and influence. Yes, we have had our share of challenges. Hurricane Katrina was one of the worst. But we have also had our share of important victories. Eminent domain reform comes immediately to mind. With these experiences and more, I am proud (Farm Bureau Proud) to say that we have steered the course to become one of the most influential general farm organizations in the state and nation.

Our efforts touch so many areas, from carrying the farmer’s message to the general public to molding the agricultural leaders of tomorrow to championing our farmers and 4

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

other members in the halls of the Mississippi Legislature and U.S. Congress.

When Farm Bureau speaks, people listen.

And if they don’t, they should.

Mississippi Farm Bureau is a grassroots organization with offices in all 82 counties.

Our volunteer leaders are familiar with the needs of local farmers, and they know what it takes to build strong rural communities. In addition to their Farm Bureau membership, our leaders are also active in many other organizations on the local, state and national levels.

Our reach is far; our influence is strong.

FARMERS FEED THE WORLD

During that same convention planning session, we talked about a recent American Farm Bureau Federation survey which discovered that while most people relate Farm Bureau to agriculture, they don’t think about us in terms of food and the food industry.

This discovery caused more than a little alarm among the state Farm Bureau presidents gathered in Washington, D.C., where the results of the survey were disseminated.

We looked at each other in dismay.

“Farmers produce the food that feeds the world,” we wanted to shout. “Why don’t you know that?”

As our world population continues to grow — some experts are predicting 9.6 billion people by the year 2050 — who will feed and clothe all of these men, women and

children? The answer is obvious: our nation’s efficient and productive farmers.

I know I have said this a million times before, but it certainly bears repeating.

Make sure your friends and neighbors are aware that farmers produce the fiber used to make towels, sheets and clothing; farmers grow the commodities used for so many of the products we depend on daily (such as soaps, cosmetics, inks and cooking oils); farmers grow the timber used to build our homes; and last but certainly not least, farmers grow the vegetables, fruit, meat, milk, eggs, grains and nuts we consume each day.

Quite simply: Farmers feed the world.

POLICY DEVELOPMENT

In conclusion, and speaking of our grassroots structure, as we once again begin holding policy development meetings in late summer and early fall, I want to encourage you to take advantage of this unique opportunity to bring your county’s thoughts and concerns to the table.

The policy development meetings move us into the State Resolutions Meeting in November and culminate in the actions taken by the members of our Delegate Body at state convention. It is that grassroots process I was talking about earlier that surfaces the policies that guide all that we do, and it is the bedrock of our organization.

I appreciate your hard work on behalf of Farm Bureau. Of the many reasons I am proud to be a part of this organization, you are right up there at the very top. You, our dedicated volunteer leaders and staff, make me Farm Bureau Proud. FB JULY/AUGUST 2016

National Affairs Report ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

BY JUSTIN FERGUSON, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation National Affairs Coordinator & Commodity Coordinator for Major Row Crops

Trade Agreement Holds Opportunities for Mississippi Agriculture The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) food products. Export sales make an importrade and investment agreement, concluded tant contribution to Mississippi’s farm econin October 2015 by the United States and 11 omy, with a total in cash receipts of over $7 other countries in the Pacific Rim, has the billion in 2015. potential to have a significant, positive impact Mississippi’s broiler industry leads all on U.S. agriculture. Analysis by American other agricultural industries in the state, Farm Bureau Federation indicates congres- with more than $3 billion sional passage of the agreement would boost in cash receipts in 2015. net farm income by $4.4 billion over levels TPP passage is expected expected if Congress fails to ratify TPP. to increase poultry cash Here at home, the TPP agreement is receipts by $40.3 million expected to increase cash receipts and net per year, which is driven by exports from Mississippi by $110.3 million a $10.8-million-per-year and $52.8 million per year, respectively. It increase in direct exports is estimated that the increased marketing to TPP countries. Addiopportunities for Mississippi farmers and tionally, Mississippi’s soyranchers will add nearly 400 jobs to the bean industry produced almost $1 billion Mississippi economy. Eliminating tariffs in cash receipts in 2015. TPP passage is and other trade barriers on Mississippi’s expected to increase soybean cash receipts agricultural exports to TPP-partner coun- by $16 million per year, which is driven tries will increase trade for a range of Mis- by a $9-million-per-year increase in direct sissippi agricultural products, including exports to TPP countries. poultry, soybeans, pork, beef and processed It is critical to remember that the TPP is

6

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

a multi-lateral agreement intended to create high-quality rules and market access across its 12 member countries. However, outside of TPP, other member countries would — and indeed are — already negotiating and implementing bilateral agreements without waiting for the United States to complete action. While legally TPP would only go into full effect if the United States ratifies the agreement, other countries will move forward with their trade capabilities regardless of whether or not the United States decides to ratify the agreement. U.S. failure to enact TPP will not see our trade situation stay the same, but will lead to declining net exports and major losses of market share in important markets.

Farm Bureau fully supports the U.S. Congress in ratifying this important trade agreement critical to U.S. farmers and ranchers. FB

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Legislative Update ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

BY CAMILLE SCALES YOUNG AND CHRIS CHAMPION

Cornerstone Government Affairs/MFBF Public Policy Department

How Mississippi Agriculture Fared The 2016 Regular Session of the Mississippi Legislature proved to be an eventful first year of the new four-year term. As is the norm for the first year of a term, the session started very slowly and deliberately, but quickly sped into action in early February. This session, for the first time in modern history, the Republican Party held a supermajority in the House of Representatives, which gave them the votes necessary to pass tax measures without any support from the Democratic Party.

Another change this session was the appointment of a new agriculture committee chairman in the House of Representatives. Speaker Phillip Gunn appointed Walthall County Farm Bureau President Bill Pigott (R-Tylertown) to serve as the chairman in the House for the next four years. Pigott replaces Rep. Preston Sullivan (D-Okolona). Sen. Billy Hudson (R-Hattiesburg) continues to serve as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Farm Bureau continued to maintain a strong working relationship with these and other chairmen throughout the legislative session.

While there were several social laws that dominated the headlines this session, the Legislature passed a number of bills that helped the agriculture community. Senate Bill 2209, authored by Sen. Buck Clarke (R-Hollandale), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, serves as a pro-

tective measure known as the “seed preemption law.” This law, already signed by Gov. Phil Bryant, will prevent local municipalities from preempting state law regarding the regulation of agricultural seed to protect producers and seedsmen across the state. The Legislature continued its commitment to agriculture by extending the harvest permit to July 1, 2019, through Senate Bill 2532, authored by Sen. Willie Simmons (D-Cleveland), chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee. The harvest permit allows commodities to be transferred at up to 84,000 pounds for proper axle and length.

While new funding for roads and bridges was a topic of discussion throughout most of the session, no resolution could be reached in time for funding changes this year. Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) President Mike McCormick served on a Mississippi Economic Council transportation task force with other leaders throughout the state. The task force presented a variety of transportation funding options to members of the Legislature, but ultimately, Senate and House leaders felt that timing was not right for a change this year.

President McCormick and MFBF leaders will continue discussions with the Mississippi Department of Transportation and legislative leaders in search of a solution for inadequate transportation funding to address the deteriorating roads and

bridges across the state. As the majority of Farm Bureau members live in rural Mississippi, this is a very important issue for the membership.

Multiple changes were made to the tax code this session that will have an impact on all Mississippians. House Bill 1677, authored by Rep. Jeff Smith (R-Columbus), chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, continues to exempt from sales tax agricultural products grown in this state and cut and first sold from place of production. The major tax reform, known as the Taxpayer Pay Raise Act of 2016 and championed by Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves, will phase out the state’s franchise tax, lower the self-employment tax and dissolve the three-percent tax. If this bill is signed into law by Gov. Bryant, it will take several years to realize the tax implications; however, it will mean millions of dollars returned to taxpayers throughout the agricultural community.

While the session came to an end in late April, the Public Policy team at Mississippi Farm Bureau will continue to maintain outreach with executive and legislative leadership to keep them up to speed with issues of importance to the Farm Bureau membership. We look forward to involving the membership over the coming months as we provide educational opportunities to members of the Legislature and their staffs. FB

Delta Rice Tasting Luncheon The 26th Annual Delta Rice Tasting Luncheon, sponsored by Delta Rice Promotions Inc., will be held Sept. 16 at the Delta State University-Walter Sillers Coliseum in Cleveland from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The luncheon will feature over 300 rice dishes.

8

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

Around 1,000 people from various states and sometimes other countries attend this event.

Tickets are $5 and can be purchased from the Extension office of Bolivar County by calling (662) 843-8371. Tickets will also be on sale at the door.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

JULY/AUGUST 2016

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

9

R E A L I Z I N G

A

DREAM B Y G LY N D A P H I L L I P S

Holmes County cattleman Terry Moore grew up on a farm near Ackerman and dreamed of one day owning his own beef cattle operation. Through the years, with a lot of hard work and with expert advice from his local Extension office and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), he has realized his dream.

Today, Terry owns 150 acres of farmland near Goodman, where he has a cow-calf operation and timber. He annually runs 48 head of Angus, Brangus and Charlois/Angus-cross mama cows and sells calves when they are 450 to 500 pounds at auction sales in Winona and Kosciusko.

He is working with experts to improve his stand of hardwood trees.

Terry Moore’s farm is beautiful, but he will quickly tell you he still has goals to achieve. One of the most important of them is making sure other people know they can realize their farming dreams, too.

ENCOURAGING OTHERS

Last October, Terry hosted a Grazing Field Day on his farm that was attended by some 68 people from Holmes, Attala, Winston and Carroll counties. The field day was sponsored by the USDA-NRCS and its Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) as well as the Winston County Self Help Cooperative in Louisville.

“I talked with the group, and eyes were opened as to what could be done. It rained, so the group will come back, and I will take them around the farm in a wagon for a closer look,” he said. “I look forward to showing them some of the things I’ve done around here.”

Terry has implemented many conservation practices on his farm to improve water quality, reduce erosion and enhance forage JULY/AUGUST 2016

growth. NRCS programs have helped him around the farm, including a diversion pole add fencing and cross-fencing so that his that keeps cows out of the creek but is set cattle operation is more organized and effi- back far enough away from the creek bed cient. The EQIP program has helped him to keep it from being washed away. He also with erosion control, including drain pipes rigged a cable to a drill affixed to the back of and a diversion ditch. NRCS programs have a tractor with a frontend loader. When the assisted him in adding tractor moves, the cable three watering ponds moves and pushes the for his cattle. drill down into drought“Even though the hardened ground that is cows had plenty of water, virtually impenetrable the experts said I had to otherwise. He invented TERRY MOORE’S FARM IS have the ponds so the a mobile hay trough that BEAUTIFUL, BUT HE WILL cows wouldn’t walk off can be moved around their weight trying to get QUICKLY TELL YOU HE STILL the fields. to water. The NRCS has “I was raised around HAS GOALS TO ACHIEVE. done a lot to help me,” ONE OF THE MOST IMPORwelders and around Terry said. anvils and a forge,” he TANT OF THEM IS MAKING said. “My dad did it FARM INVENTIONS SURE OTHER PEOPLE KNOW the old way. He worked Terry grew up the for the railroad, and he THEY CAN REALIZE THEIR youngest of nine chilwould bring home picks FARMING DREAMS, TOO. dren on a row crop farm. and shovels to sharpen. I “We grew a little cotton but mainly corn learned to weld from him, and it fascinated and soybeans,” he said. “There were hogs, me the things you could make.” cows and a huge truck garden for food.

“I enjoyed the lifestyle, and as an adult, MORE INFORMATION I wanted to move back to the country so I For help with your own farming endeavcould have some cows, raise my sons, ride ors, contact your local Extension office, the horses and hunt,” he said. “I worked as a NRCS, or contact the Winston County maintenance machinist for most of my life, Self Help Cooperative at (601) 291-2704 but I always had cows whenever I could, and or email ftaylor@bellsouth.net. The website I began to slowly buy land and build the is www.wcshc.com. FB farm that I dreamed of.”

In addition to the farm, Terry, who is Terry is a graduate of Holmes Community retired from Delphi Packard in Clinton, College. The Moores are longtime members now owns Moore’s Welding and Ironworks of Holmes County Farm Bureau. Terry’s wife, near Goodman, which makes wrought iron Jenette, is retired from Farm Bureau Tech in doors, fences and gates, both fancy and plain, Jackson, a division of Southern Farm Bureau plus other items such as barbecue grills. His Casualty Insurance Company. The Moores’ oldwife and youngest son work with him. est son is the director of Information TechnolTerry’s ability to work with his hands ogy at Mississippi Valley State University. They has helped him invent equipment he uses have three grandsons and two granddaughters.

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

11

MISSISSIPPI’S MEAT GOAT INDUSTRY B Y G LY N D A P H I L L I P S

D

ewayne Smith of Dewayne Smith Farms in Greene County is spreading the word to Mississippi farmers that meat goats, specifically the Kiko breed, can provide a reliable additional stream of income for a diversified farm.

“It doesn’t matter if you have a big operation or a small operation, a growing demand exists, especially among certain ethnic communities, for meat goats,” he said. “Some of these communities also eat lamb, so sheep are a nice addition, too.

According to Extension experts, any breed and type of goat, including dairy goats, can be used for meat. During the last 20 years, Mississippi producers have crossbred Boer and Kiko breeds with native goats to increase muscle mass and parasite resistance. Dewayne favors the Kiko breed from New Zealand. He says it is one of the most parasite-resistant goat breeds and also has good mothering instincts.

“All you need to get started with goats is a few acres and some inexpensive stockyard goats,” he said. “I started out six years ago raising commercial stockyard goats, and a friend of mine told me about the Kiko breed.

I got a Kiko billy, mated it with a commercial doe and started from there. The 50 percent and 75 percent crosses sold nicely. The 100 percent purebred New Zealands that can trace their bloodline all of the way to New Zealand sell for a lot more.”

On the day of this interview, Dewayne and I visited five small farms in his area, including farms owned by two of his children and one cousin, where meat goats 12

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

were supplementing incomes and helping which shares information about sustainable kids show livestock. production, marketing and merchandising of “Small ruminant farming is becoming an livestock and other agricultural products. The important segment of Mississippi agriculture. group formed a hands-on club for children I don’t think some of the ag surveys sent out who want to learn to raise livestock. are returned, so some of our ag agencies “If you have two or three acres and 10 might not realize just how many Mississippi stockyard nanny goats, you could average farmers are growing small ruminants,” he said. 15 babies that first year and get about $150 “In just the five miles on either side of me, a baby. That’s about $2,250, and a nice addiwe have eight producers with tional income,” Dewayne 400-plus sheep and goats.” said. “It is also a good start.

“IN JUST THE FIVE As you breed your goats with MILES ON EITHER HATTIESBURG MARKET the more expensive higherSIDE OF ME, WE HAVE Three years ago, Dewayne quality billies, you begin getdecided his area of the state ting more for them.”

EIGHT PRODUCERS needed a market closer to WITH 400-PLUS SHEEP Dwayne wants to encourhome. age farmers to raise small AND GOATS.” “I traveled to Georgia and ruminants and to encourage DEWAYNE SMITH met with the Southeast Kiko more youths to show goats Goat Association,” he said. through the 4-H program.

“I told them I wanted to have a meat goat His own grandchildren show and tend sale in Hattiesburg. I pointed out that if we to their animals daily. Dewayne’s grandcould have a sale and get farmers to see with children include Shelby, Cassidy, Hannah, their own eyes the type of prices these goats McKenzie, Randy, Levi and Chloe. get they would be sold on them.

“At our first sale, we sold 105 goats that FALL ROUNDUP brought right at $50,000,” he said. “At the If you are interested in raising small second sale, we sold 114 goats at about ruminants, Dewayne urges you to attend $107,000. Similar auctions in Georgia, Ten- the Southeast Kiko Goat Association Fall nessee, Illinois and Oklahoma mirror these Roundup and Sale at the Forrest County types of figures or are higher. We are looking Multipurpose Center in Hattiesburg the forward to our third sale in the second week first weekend in November. There is no cost of November.” for the seminars.

Dewayne says he likes to speak out at For more information about raising every opportunity to encourage folks to try meat goats or about the fall sale, call your raising meat goats. He works with the Greene local Extension office. You may also call County Cooperating Agriculturists group, Dewayne Smith at (601)394-8763. FB JULY/AUGUST 2016

FarmFacts: S T R A I G H T F R O M A M I S S I S S I P P I FA R M E R

God’s Plan for Me

by Marlo Beason

My name is Marlo Beason, and I am coowner of Beason Family Farm. Growing up, I always thought I knew what I wanted, but fortunately, God had other plans for me. I have enjoyable memories of my grandparents gardening and having cows. That was about the extent of the farming around me.

As a youth then young adult, I was a highmaintenance fashion-police cheerleader with a little country in me. I never dreamed that my bachelor’s degree in business and marketing was going to be used to sell milk.

(I had a dress shop in mind.) I’m so glad that God knew better.

My husband, Shelby, and I have three kids, Cole, Micaela and Landon. We live in Neshoba County, where we have a small dairy operation, beef cows and do custom hay harvesting. I can’t imagine any better

14

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

place to raise kids than on the farm. In the words of a character from a recent movie: “The outside of an animal is good for the inside of a child.”

My husband had shown Jerseys in 4-H and loved the Jersey breed. They are some of the prettiest and most docile dairy cows that also produce milk with a higher protein and fat content. Our kids had begun showing Jerseys in 4-H, so we played with the idea of starting a dairy for a couple of years before we took the plunge. We started building the dairy barn in March 2012, and

by September 2012, we were selling milk.

Our small dairy operation consists of a cow coming in the back of the barn and a finished product leaving the front of the barn. We milk the cows, process, bottle and distribute … all on our farm. We milk only

registered Jersey cows that are primarily grassfed. We milk the cows twice a day every day, rain or shine, even on Christmas! Cows do not take a day off.

We get started at 7:30 a.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. Each milking, from cleanup to finish, takes about two hours. We pasteurize and bottle between milkings daily.

Our products are sold in approximately 35 locations. Our deliveries are MondayFriday. We stop at most all locations once a week and some places twice a week. We produce whole milk, reduced-fat milk, chocolate milk, buttermilk and cream. We serve restaurants and grocery stores in the central part of the state, delivering as far west as Jackson, as far east as Meridian, as far north as Starkville and as far south as

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Marlo and Shelby Beason with children, Micaela, Landon and Cole.

Our dairy operation not only provides for us financially but also rewards us spiritually and emotionally.

— Marlo Beason Magee, with a lot of places in between.

I think people need to realize that agriculture is essential, and being part of a great organization like Farm Bureau helps us to educate the public. I’ve never understood why athletes, movie stars and music artists are so celebrated when we have troops defending our country and farmers providing our food. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said it better than anyone else at the national Farm Bureau convention, explaining how he was three generations removed from the farm. If you were to explain the word farmer in one word, it would be “freedom.” In other words, farmers provide food security so people can choose to follow their individual dreams to be whatever they want to be. This is a cause for celebration.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Our dairy operation not only provides for us financially but also rewards us spiritually and emotionally. The smiles and expressions on kids’ faces as they realize where milk comes from as they watch it pump through the glass lines, hearing a child say their field trip to the farm is better than Disney World, having parents tell us that their child only drinks our milk, or having an elderly person explain that our milk reminds them of how good milk tasted when they were growing up tells us we are supported and appreciated. It’s the little things that make our hard work meaningful.

It has been a challenge with a lot of hard work while facing the skepticism of people looking at us like we are crazy. We may be a little crazy, but it has worked for us. We

went from eight cows to 35 cows in milk, with a total herd of 70, including young heifers and dry cows. Thirteen hundred gallons of milk are produced and distributed weekly. Now, almost four years later, we feel so blessed.

Our business is called Beason Family Farm for a reason. It takes a family working together — kids, parents and siblings — helping out when needed. I just wish my grandparents could be here now enjoying this farm life with me. FB The Farm Families of Mississippi (FFM) Agriculture Promotion Campaign was created to educate the public about the agriculture industry. For more information, contact Greg Gibson at (601) 977-4154.

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

15

Eggplant Parmesan

Recipese

3 lg. eggs 3 T. water ¾ c. Italian seasoned breadcrumbs 2 T. grated Parmesan cheese 1 lg. eggplant, peeled and cut into ½-inch slices 3 T. olive oil ¼ c. grated Parmesan cheese, divided 1 (8-oz.) pkg. shredded mozzarella cheese, divided 3 c. pasta sauce Whisk together eggs and 3 tablespoons water until blended. Combine breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese. Dip eggplant slices into egg mixture; dredge in breadcrumb mixture. Cook eggplant in three batches in 1 tablespoon hot oil (per batch) in a large skillet over medium heat for 4 minutes on each side or until tender. Arrange 1/3 eggplant in a single layer in a lightly greased 11x7-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese and ½ c. mozzarella

cheese. Repeat layer twice. Spoon 3 cups pasta sauce over top and bake covered at 375 degrees for 35 minutes. Uncover and sprinkle with remaining 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese and ½ cup mozzarella cheese. Bake 10 minute or until cheese melts. Serves 4 to 6.

Carolyn Turner Jones County Fried Green Tomatoes

1 ½ c. self-rising flour, divided 2 lg. eggs 1 tsp. black pepper, divided 2 c. vegetable oil 1 ½ c. buttermilk 1 tsp. salt, divided 3 green tomatoes, each cut into 4 slices Whisk together 1 tablespoon flour, buttermilk, eggs, ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper in a small bowl. Stir together remaining flour, ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper in a shallow bowl. Dip

tomato slices in buttermilk mixture; dredge in flour mixture. Heat oil in a heavy skillet to 350 degrees. Fry tomatoes 2½ minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels. Serve immediately.

Peggy Magee Jefferson Davis County Hot Squash Casserole

1 (10½-oz.) pkg. frozen yellow squash or 3 c. fresh ½ med. green pepper, chopped 1 med. onion, chopped 1 (4-oz.) jar Cheese Whiz Tortilla chips 1 (11-oz.) jar Ro-Tel tomatoes Cook vegetables until tender. Drain and mash. Add cheese and tomatoes. Place in 2-quart buttered casserole. Sprinkle broken tortilla chips on top. Bake at 350 degrees for about 25 minutes or until bubbly.

Pam Jones Hinds County COUNTRY COOKING, VOLUME V: These recipes are from “Country Cooking, Volume V,” now 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.

16

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Staff Changes

Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) is happy to welcome Kevin Brown back into our Farm Bureau family. Kevin, who worked with us as a regional manager in the past, will be working with Matt Bayles in Region 5 and with the MFBF Public Policy Department, helping with grassroots policy development. In addition to his regional manager duties, Matt will now have an expanded role developing special projects for the Federation.

“Please join me in welcoming Kevin back home and in congratulating Matt on his exciting new role within our organization,” said MFBF President Mike McCormick. FB

CALENDAR of EVENTS

JUNE 20 Beef/Dairy/Swine Summer Commodity Meeting

MFBF Building, Jackson

JULY 6 Cotton Summer Commodity Meeting

Grenada Extension Office, Grenada

JULY 7 Peanut Summer Commodity Meeting

Larry’s Fish House, Itta Bena

JULY 8 Forage Summer Commodity Meeting

MFBF Building, Jackson

JULY 8-9 YF&R MSU Weekend

JULY 15 Sweet Potato Summer Commodity Meeting

Calhoun County Multipurpose Building Pittsboro

JULY 19 Rice Summer Commodity Meeting

DREC, Stoneville

JULY 20 Soybean/Corn, Wheat & Feed Grains Summer Commodity Meeting

Crystal Grill, Greenwood JULY 25-28 Youth Safety Seminar Gray Center, Canton

SEPT. 16 Delta Rice Tasting Luncheon Delta State University, Cleveland OCT. 13 & 14 Women’s Ag Tour JULY/AUGUST 2016

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

17

“I CAN’T SAY ENOUGH ABOUT THE TREMENDOUS HELP WE HAVE GOTTEN FROM OUR LOCAL MASTER GARDENERS AND THE MANY HOURS THEY HAVE INVESTED IN THE MAGNOLIA BOTANICAL GARDENS.” SUSAN WORTHEY

Magnolia Botan3ical2 Gardens B Y G LY N D A P H I L L I P S

Whether you operate a gardening business or simply want to grow fresh flowers and vegetables at home, you will find the Magnolia Botanical Gardens in Verona both interesting and informative.

The two-acre garden, located at the Hiram Palmertree North Mississippi Research and Extension Center (NMREC) in Verona, is designed to demonstrate how a variety of flowers and flowering plants perform with different types of media, fertilizers, herbicides, insects and diseases as well as their aesthetics in different garden settings.

Many of the plants in the Magnolia Botanical Gardens are common to Mississippi and the North Mississippi area. However, numerous plants are from other countries.

HISTORY

the garden is devoted to Mississippi Medallion winners, and another is devoted to vegetables.

The creation and maintenance of the Magnolia Botanical Gardens is a collaborative effort between MAFES and the Mississippi State University Extension Service.

Susan emphasizes that work with the garden has involved input not only from researchers and Extension personnel but from consumer groups and Master Gardeners.

“I can’t say enough about the tremendous help we have gotten from our local Master Gardeners and the many hours they have invested in the Magnolia Botanical Gardens,” she said “This garden has become a resource used not only by backyard gardeners, garden stores and landscape businesses, but by Master Gardener groups, civic clubs and area schools.”

FUTURE

As far as the future of the Magnolia Botanical Gardens is concerned, Susan says the challenge now is to identify plant material to trial for the upcoming years.

“Our plans for the future are to monitor what we already have in place and to add to that collection,” she said. “For example, we would like to do a pollinator garden in the wildlife and fragrant areas. We are also planning one-day programs and workshops throughout the year to educate on different garden topics. We will focus on topics such as vegetable gardening, care and maintenance of roses, plant pollinators, plant nutrition and sustainable horticulture practices. The trend today is toward all natural and organic, and we are transitioning to that with our vegetables, for sure.”

Susan says the Magnolia Botanical Gardens has hosted many tours for various clubs, groups and area schools in the past, and the garden is looking forward to many more.

“It’s nice to have a place where you can learn about different flowers and plants,” she said. “But our garden is also a place where you can come and enjoy a time of quiet reflection as you enjoy nature and the surrounding landscape.”

For more information about the Magnolia Botanical Gardens, contact the Hiram Palmertree North Mississippi Research and Extension Center at (662) 566-2201. FB

“Local consumers and garden centers wanted a research and demonstration garden, DR. SLOAN and that’s where the idea for the Magnolia Through the years, many people have Botanical Gardens originated,” said Susan worked and continue to work with the garWorthey, an NMREC horticultural research den, but horticulturist Dr. Crofton Sloan, associate. “The garden is the result of a rec- who retired from the center at the end of ommendation made by our local horticul- April 2016, has been the name most associture commodity group at the 1996 producer ated with its development. advisory meeting held here at the center.”

His excellent work can’t be overstated and Susan says the recommendation for the has been very much appreciated. Dr. Sloan was Magnolia Botanical Gardens marked a shift with Mississippi State University for 25 years, in the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry and he will be greatly missed.

Experiment Station’s (MAFES) philosophy Dr. Casey Barickman will be taking over from research services exclusively for tradi- the responsibilities of the NMREC Hortitional agriculture, such as row crop and live- culture Unit and will be accompanied by stock production. The shift to production Dr. Jeff Wilson, Thomas Horgan, Susan Research centers and experiment stations and homeowner horticulture and landscape Worthey and Cameron Tate. across the state have trial gardens with flowprojects laid the foundation of the ers and blooming plants which are a NMREC Horticulture Unit. component of that particular area of In 1997, Pete Poland of Landscape the state. In addition to the North Services in Tupelo developed a concepMississippi facility, extensive gardentual plan for the Magnolia Botanical ing efforts can also be found on the Gardens which divides it into differMississippi State University campus ent rooms, including formal and fraand at the Truck Crops Experiment grant, wildlife, water, annuals, shade Station in Crystal Springs and the and native. Different varieties of trees From left to right are Dr. Jeff Wilson, Dr. Casey Barickman, Cameron South Mississippi Branch Experiment form a mini-arboretum. One area of Tate, Susan Worthey and Thomas Horgan.

Station in Poplarville.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

19

GRAMMY MuseumÂŽ Mississippi is one of more than 2,000 museums across America to offer free admission to military personnel and their families this summer in collaboration with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families and the Department of Defense. For more information, visit www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.

For more information about GRAMMY MuseumÂŽ Mississippi and its programs, or for information about how to become a museum member, visit www.grammymuseumms.org.

GRAMMY Museum Mississippi ®

B Y G LY N D A P H I L L I P S

There is so much to see and do at the On a rotating basis, the museum will hosted some 2,000 to 2,500 guests, includbrand-new 28,000-square-foot GRAMMY present a new exhibit in its temporary ing Governor Phil Bryant and many local Museum Mississippi in Cleveland, time will exhibit space. At the time of this interview, and national music industry dignitaries,” slip away before you know it. the exhibit was all about The Beatles. “Ladies she said. “Since we opened, we have had The museum, highly interactive and filled and Gentlemen…The Beatles” explores the visitors from around the state, the nation with multimedia exhibits, is one of the most impact the group’s arrival had on American and the world.” technologically-advanced music-themed pop culture in the mid-1960s and includes The mission of GRAMMY Museum museums in the South. In addition to the over 400 pieces of memorabilia. From June Mississippi is to educate and inspire the next permanent exhibits, which take a look at 30 through October 16, the exhibit will fea- generation of American music innovators. every aspect of the GRAMMY Award pro- ture “Pride and Joy: The Texas Blues of Stevie “About 80 percent of what we do here gram and the music industry as a whole, you Ray Vaughan.” will be educational,” Emily said. “We can learn the history of dance and some new will host school field trips and youth dance moves by moving from one colorful WHY A GRAMMY MUSEUM? music camps. We have a classroom and block to another on a big lighted dance floor.

GRAMMY Museum® Mississippi, which a soundstage, where we will have visiting If you are an aspiring songwriter, you will sits on a 4.5-acre site near the campus of musicians perform then conduct questionhave an opportunity to write and record your Delta State University, is the result of efforts and-answer sessions so kids and adults can very own blues song as you visit a series of by the Cleveland Music Foundation and is learn from them. interactive pods. And if you hanker to try your in association with the GRAMMY Museum “We will also serve as a venue for wedskills as a musician, there is a display of musi- at L.A. Live in Los Angeles, California. There dings and receptions, parties and meetings. cal instruments that you can actually play. is a national advisory board and a state board. We have a great retail space for gift buying,” Lucy Janoush of Cleveland serves as president she said. “In addition, we will have public programs and film screenings.”

MUSEUM EXHIBITS of the state board.

Specific museum exhibits include: “We decided that Mississippi made sense • GRAMMY Album of the Year for a museum like this and one of this cal- MORE INFORMATION • On the Red Carpet (Clothing selected iber because our state is the birthplace of The museum’s exhibits were designed artists wore on the GRAMMY the blues and American music,” said Emily by Gallagher & Associates and fabricated Red Carpet) Havens, the museum’s executive director. by Lexington Fabrication. The museum’s • Great GRAMMY Performances “We also have so many GRAMMY winners exterior was designed by Dale Partners and • GRAMMY History and so many different types of music here. Eley | Barkley, P. A. • GRAMMY Legends and Recent In addition to the blues, we are known for The museum is open seven days a week, GRAMMY Winners our gospel music, for Jimmie Rodgers and from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through • Mississippi Music Table country music and for Elvis Presley and rock Saturday, and from 12 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on • The History of the Electric Guitar and roll.”

Sunday. Museum admission is $12 for adults; • Iconic Instruments (Instruments Havens says the museum has received $10 for senior citizens (65 and over); $6 for used by some of the World’s Leading a great response since its grand opening in youth (6-18) and college students (with a Musicians) March. valid ID); and it is free to museum members • Landmark Moments in Music History “The grand opening was incredible. We and children under 5. FB

®

®

®

All photos courtesy of GRAMMY Museum Mississippi — Rory Doyle, photographer. ®

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

21

2016 Secretaries’ Conference

County Farm Bureau secretaries from across the state participated in the 2016 Secretaries’ Conference held at Table 100 in Flowood. The theme of the event was “Healthy and Happy.” Katherine and Margaret King, the King Twin Rappers, talked about the importance of laughter in the workplace. Old-time games were enjoyed outdoors, with Marilyn O’Brient of Winston County trying her hand at cornhole. Members of the 2016 Secretary Advisory Committee, who planned the event, include, back row, from left, Barbara Butler, Adams County; Marianne Butler, Monroe County; Bess Varas, Copiah County; and Judy Kelly, Humphreys County; and front row, from left, Christi McElhenney, Newton County; Jan Hood, Panola County; Ranecia Wardlaw, Lafayette County; and Veda Wade, Forrest County. FB

Alcorn22County Courthouse MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

Historic Corinth Depot and Crossroads Museum

JULY/AUGUST 2016

County Annual Meetings BENTON COUNTY FARM BUREAU Monday, Aug. 29, at 6:30 p.m.

Hickory Flat Attendance Center — Hickory Flat Ladies are asked to bring a dessert. Members must pick up ticket in advance at the county office at no charge. You must have a ticket to enter.

NO CARRY OUTS.

LEAKE COUNTY FARM BUREAU Thursday, Sept. 1, at 6:30 p.m.

Farm Bureau Office — Carthage

CALHOUN COUNTY FARM BUREAU Tuesday, Aug. 9, at 7 p.m.

Multipurpose Building — Pittsboro

MARSHALL COUNTY FARM BUREAU Thursday, Aug. 4, at 7 p.m.

Marshall County Extension Office — Holly Springs

DESOTO COUNTY FARM BUREAU Tuesday, August 16, at 7:30 a.m.

Farm Bureau Office — Hernando HUMPHREYS COUNTY FARM BUREAU Wednesday, July 13, at 9 a.m.

Farm Bureau Office — Belzoni

JULY/AUGUST 2016

SEE PAGE 5 FOR A LIST OF OUR FARM BUREAU MEMBER BENEFITS.

LEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU Thursday, Aug. 18, at 6:30 p.m.

Farm Bureau Office — Tupelo LOWNDES COUNTY FARM BUREAU Tuesday, Sept. 6, at 6:30 p.m.

Farm Bureau Office — Columbus

PERRY COUNTY FARM BUREAU Thursday, Aug. 4, at 6:30 p.m.

Catfish Wagon — Runnelstown WEBSTER COUNTY FARM BUREAU Thursday, Aug. 25, at 7 p.m.

Farm Bureau Office — Eupora

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

23

Women’s Leadership Conference

Speakers at the 2016 Women’s Leadership Conference addressed issues of interest to farm women. Speakers pictured here, along with a photo of conference attendees, include 2016 Farm Bureau Ambassador Jessica Smith, author Vaughn Wilson and Dr. C. W. “Bill” Herndon Jr., associate vice president and professor at Mississippi State University (MSU). Also on the program were Parker Evans, Young Farmers & Ranchers Program; Teacher of the Year Tiffany Lyles; Farm Woman of the Year Christine Fielder; Outstanding Achievement Award recipients; MFBF Training Coordinator Merlene Partridge; Theresa Hand and Anna McCain, MSU Extension Service; and Susan Head, Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce. FB 24

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Young Farmers & Ranchers Conference

This year’s Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Leadership and Advocacy Conference, held in Memphis at the historic Peabody Hotel, proved to be the biggest to date, with 200 participants registered. Conference attendees learned how to tell their agricultural story effectively and gained insight into the importance of Memphis as a transportation hub for moving agricultural products around the nation and the world. Pictured are state and national YF&R Achievement Award winners William and Cala Tabb of Webster County, who were presented their national award, a new truck, courtesy of Chevrolet; speaker Allyson Perry, senior project manager, Center for Food Integrity; and a group of young farmers participating in the conference. Plans are already being made for next year’s conference to be held in Natchez on Feb. 24-26.

We would like to extend a special thanks to supporters of this year’s event: First South Farm Credit, DuPont Pioneer, Dow AgroSciences, Peoples Bank, Horizon Ag, Tippah County Farm Bureau, Bayer CropScience, Sanders Inc., Nutrena and Purina. FB JULY/AUGUST 2016

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

25

Women’s Day at the Capitol

State Women’s Committee members served refreshments in the Capitol rotunda and visited with members of the House and Senate ag committees during their annual Women’s Day at the Capitol event. Pictured are Senate Ag Committee Chair Billy Hudson with Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation President Mike McCormick and members of the State Women’s Committee as well as House Ag Committee Chair and Vice Chair Bill Pigott (standing) and Vince Mangold, respectively. FB

26

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

JULY/AUGUST 2016

In Memoriam — Marvin Glass

Marvin Albert Glass, the father of Sandra Waide, wife of past Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation President David Waide, died at his residence in West Point on Sunday, April 10. He was 102 years old. A graveside service for family members only was held at Cedar Bluff Cumberland Presbyterian Cemetery.

Marvin was born the year before World War I broke out and came of age during the Great Depression. He attended Arkansas State University and served the U.S. Navy in World War II. After WWII, he joined the Army National Guard and was called into service during the Korean Conflict.

Among his many endeavors, Marvin owned a service station; homesteaded for a time near Cody, Wyoming; worked for CA Eastern Airways in Columbus, Mississippi, and Mission, Texas; managed Henry Clay Hotel and owned the John Bryan Real Estate Company.

Later in life, he worked for the United States Postal Service, where he retired. Along the way, Marvin had a small farm and raised cattle.

He also regularly grew a big vegetable garden.

Marvin’s interests and hobbies were many and varied. He raised and bred parakeets at one time and kept exotic pets, including

JULY/AUGUST 2016

peacocks, at another. Marvin served as an election commissioner and was affiliated with the Mississippi State Archaeology Program, going on digs in Israel and mission trips to Honduras.

Last, but certainly not least, Marvin repaired clocks. He was featured in a past issue of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation membership publication, where he talked about collecting antiques and, in particular, collecting and repairing antique clocks. Many other journalists wrote (and filmed) stories about his expertise in this area.

Marvin and his late wife, Mary Emma, were married for 72 years.

Marvin is survived by his daughters, Sandra Waide (David) of West Point and Linda Raff (Michael) of Jackson; special daughters, Mary Beth Moody (Roland) of Norcross, Georgia, and Mary Carolyn Ellis of West Point; and special son, Joe Rodgers (Carolyn) of Fort Worth, Texas, as well as one niece and nephew, 12 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. FB

Memorials may be made to: Cedar Bluff Cumberland Presbyterian Cemetery, c/o Anna Sims, 911 Henryville Rd., Cedar Bluff, MS 39741.

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

27

Grain Bin Safety Workshop

Ag Mags Available

This issue of our Ag Mag children’s The Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Safety Program held a Grain

Bin Workshop in early April at the Mississippi Delta Community College Capps Technology Center located on Highway 82 at Indianola. The workshop included a segment for farmers and farm employees and a segment for emergency first responders. With grant funds from the Monsanto Company, the MFBF Safety Program built a Mobile Grain Bin Simulator that is now available for county Farm Bureaus and fire departments throughout the state and in the surrounding states of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Tennessee.

For more information, contact Angela Ellis at (601) 977-4242 or aellis@msfb.org. FB

28

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

newsletter features the soybean industry.

You can order Ag Mags for your local classroom or ag promotion events from our Ag in the Classroom program.

Dairy, corn, poultry, horticulture, cotton, peanut, honey bee, soil, beef and soybean editions are now available.

Contact Pam Jones at pjones@msfb.org or (601) 977-4854. FB

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Equine MSEA Scholarship Mississippi State University’s (MSU) “SaddleUp” Scholarship was awarded in Starkville for academic year 2016/2017 to Sydney McConnell, daughter of Mark and Susan McConnell of Brandon. Sydney received the $2,000 in ceremonies held at the annual Animal and Dairy Science Banquet on the MSU campus. Sydney is a junior pursuing a major in Veterinary Medicine. She is a graduate of Northwest Rankin High School. Pictured, from left to right, are James Rasberry, president of the Mississippi State Equine Association (MSEA), Sydney McConnell, Amanda Rasberry Crawford and Terry Crawford of Kosciusko. Rasberry is president of Attala County Farm Bureau. FB

Women’s Ag Tour The two-day Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Women’s Ag Tour will be held Oct. 13 and 14 in Hinds, Madison, Claiborne, Copiah and Adams counties.

If you would like to participate, contact your county Farm Bureau or the MFBF Women’s Program at (601) 977-4854. FB

30

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Lap Throws

AITC T-Shirts for Sale

Contact Pam Jones at pjones@msfb.org BACK or (601) 977-4854 FB JULY/AUGUST 2016

Afghan lap throws with the Ag in the Classroom artwork (the same as the T-shirts) are now available for $40 from the state office.

The throws are maroon and are 51 inches by 38 inches in size. • For more information, contact Pam Jones at pjones@msfb.org or FRONT (601) 977-4854. FB MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

31