OKCountry Fall 2011

FALL 2011

THE MAGAZINE OF THE OKLAHOMA FARM BUREAU

INSIDE:

Playing with Fire – Peppers and Pottery A Good Deal Gone Bad

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Oklahoma Country

Contents

8

&EATURES n Playing with Fire – Peppers and Pottery A mother and daughter share pride in their Oklahoma roots, a flair for entrepreneurship and a talent for feeding their creative fires with peppers and pottery.

BY CANDACE KREBS

n A Good Deal Gone Bad One year ago, more than 700 cattle buyers fell victim to the shut down and bankruptcy of cattle broker Eastern Livestock Company, LLC. Since then, Oklahoma Farm Bureau and the state legislature have taken action to protect cattlemen in similar situations.

14

BY GAIL BANZET

#OVER )MAGE A mother’s gourmet pepper jelly and a daughter’s distinctive pottery are promoting Oklahoma’s artistic and cultural diversity to fans across the country.

(Photograph by Dustin Mielke)

Columns

Departments

n 0RESIDENTIALLY 3PEAKING n %XECUTIVE /UTLOOK n #OUNTRY 'ARDENING

n 9& 2 0ROFILE n !LL !ROUND /KLAHOMA n #OUNTRY #LASSIFIEDS n #OUNTRY +ITCHEN

(IDDEN NUMBER WORTH

O

ne member family’s Oklahoma Farm Bureau membership number is hidden somewhere in this issue of OKLAHOMA COUNTRY, and could earn that member family $50.

To claim the cash prize, the member family must find its own hidden membership number and contact Staci Armstrong before the last day of the month Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.

to 4 p.m. at 405-523-2320.

The OFB membership number hidden somewhere in OKLAHOMA COUNTRY must match the number on the face of your individual OFB membership card for you to claim the cash prize. The membership number that appears on your magazine’s mailing label is not the hidden number, but also must match the hidden number for you to claim the cash prize.

/KLAHOMA #OUNTRY s &ALL s

0RESIDENTIALLY

Speaking

BY MIKE SPRADLING President, Oklahoma Farm Bureau & Affiliated Companies

Farm bill not just for the farmers

2012

is just around the corner, and as with any year, there will be significant events unique to that period of time. But one thing that will be unique and on the minds of those in the field of production agriculture will be the 2012 Farm Bill. Oklahoma Farm Bureau is very proud and fortunate to have United States Congressmen Frank Lucas sitting in a position of major influence, Chair of the House Ag Committee, as we develop the farm bill.

In a meeting with Congressman Lucas, he commented that the timing of him becoming Chair of the House Ag Committee was a little like the story of a dog chasing a car that passed in front of its house every day; when the dog finally reached its goal and finally grabbed hold of the bumper, it had to quickly figure out what to do next as it bounced down the gravel road behind the moving vehicle.

For years, Oklahoma Farm Bureau had been looking forward to the day when our own Congressman Frank Lucas would become chair of the House Ag Committee. So now that we have caught the car, what can we do with it? We know the federal budget deficit will affect the agriculture budget. We as agriculture producers of this great nation realize this and are willing to do our part in bringing the federal budget back into balance, but we are not willing to take an unfair share of cuts to achieve that goal.

Congressman Lucas will have a difficult task of meeting the needs of U. S. agriculture with all the current challenges of our industry, while at the same time working with a potentially smaller budget. We at Oklahoma Farm Bureau understand this dilemma because it is you, the members of our organization, who are telling us your needs.

Consequently, we are working with Lucas and his staff to guarantee the needs of Oklahoma’s farmers and ranchers are considered in the next farm bill.

One way we at Oklahoma Farm Bureau are trying to meet the needs of Oklahomans is with the formation of a farm bill committee. The makeup of the committee includes producers from all parts of the state representing Oklahoma’s major commodities. Scott Neufeld from Major County is chairing the committee. Other members of the committee include Keith Kisling from Alfalfa County, Matt Muller from Jackson County, Greg Leonard from Ottawa County and Jimmy Wayne Kinder from Cotton County. These individuals have

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spent numerous hours and days on behalf of producers making sure their concerns are interjected into the process of developing the next farm bill. They have met with Congressman Lucas himself, his staff, an economist from Oklahoma State University, officials from the Farm Service Agency and many other organizations to get a feel for what this farm bill is going to look like.

The most important pieces of information this committee is analyzing come from our members who have a stake in the outcome of the farm bill. On behalf of the committee members, whether you are a member of Oklahoma Farm Bureau or not, we welcome any input you may have as it pertains to the development of the farm bill. If you have any thoughts or desires, these gentlemen welcome you to contact them to discuss your concerns and opinions.

E

very citizen in the United States should care about the outcome of the farm fill.

It has a direct effect on the farmers and ranchers of this country and also an indirect effect on every consumer in the United States. Some misinformed individuals might ask, “How’s that?” A major purpose of the farm bill is to ensure the United States has the ability to produce enough safe, affordable, high quality food in quantities that will sustain our population. In doing this, we not only guarantee we have enough food to take care of our needs but we also produce enough food to help support the needs of many individuals around the world through the efficiency and technology of the American farmer and rancher.

So the next time you hear anything mentioned about the farm bill, whether you are involved in the production of food and fiber or not, think about how the farm bill will help guarantee you have an opportunity to pursue the profession of your choice.

At the same time, just two percent of the population continues to meet the needs of all Americans by producing the food and fiber we rely on.

The farm bill makes up one-half of one percent of our country’s entire budget – a small price to pay for something each and every man, woman and child, as well as domestic livestock, rely on each and every day.

Fall 2011 Volume 64 No. 4 OKLAHOMA COUNTRY (ISSN 1544-6476) Published four times per year in April, July, October and January by Oklahoma Farm Bureau, 2501 N. Stiles, Oklahoma City, OK 73105-3126, Telephone (405) 523-2300.

Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Additional Mailing Offices.

Postmaster: Send address corrections to: OKLAHOMA COUNTRY, P.O.B. 53332, Oklahoma City, OK 73152-3332.

EDITORIAL TEAM Sam Knipp Vice President of Corporate Communications / Public Relations Dustin Mielke Multi-media Producer / Writer Gail Banzet Publications & Online News Coordinator Carter Campbell Marketing & Advertising Coordinator Staci Armstrong Office Administrator DIRECT YOUR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES TO: OKLAHOMA COUNTRY Attn: Carter Campbell 2501 N. Stiles Oklahoma City, OK 73105 (405) 530-2618 ADVERTISING POLICY All advertising is subject to publisher’s approval.

Advertisers assume all liability for content of their advertising. Publisher maintains right to cancel advertising. Publisher does not guarantee advertiser service or products, and assumes no liability for products or services advertised.

TO SUBSCRIBE OKLAHOMA COUNTRY subscription rate is $1 per year for members as part of the dues, $15 for non-members.

WEBSITE www.okfarmbureau.org OKLAHOMA FARM BUREAU DIRECTORS Mike Spradling, President Tom Buchanan, Vice President Roland Pederson, Treasurer Charles Sloan, Secretary Ervin Mitchell, Director Rodd Moesel, Director Bob Drake, Director Larry Boggs, Director Billy Gibson, Director Phyllis Holcomb, Director Monica Wilke, Executive Director

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%XECUTIVE

Outlook

BY MONICA WILKE Executive Director Oklahoma Farm Bureau & Affiliated Companies

Convention time is here!

Farm Bureau Family,

Y

es, it is here again… the time for us to gather together for our championship game, the Oklahoma Farm Bureau annual convention.

This year, we celebrate the 70th anniversary of our great organization. We have a starstudded cast of speakers, outstanding entertainment and exciting activities planned for your enjoyment. This year’s convention theme is “Living a Legacy…

Building our Future.” It is you, the grassroots membership base that have built our legacy, and it is you who will build our future. I want to thank all of you who have taken time away from your operations to become engaged in our policy making process this fall. I also want to thank those of you who have stepped up and committed your hard earned dollars to help build our future through our newly formed foundation.

You have stepped up to the challenges placed before you, and it is for this, along with your steadfast commitment to being the voice of agriculture at all levels, that your staff will honor you at our upcoming convention in November.

This year, our annual meeting will take place in downtown Oklahoma City on Nov. 11-13, 2011, with most of our activities taking place in the Cox Convention Center.

We have brought back some of your favorites, such as the dance floor with the Saturday night entertainment of country star Joe Diffie. So, I hope you are all ready to put your dancing shoes on and hit the floor! Our

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Farm Bureau Trade Show continues to grow and we look forward to bringing you informative booths to visit again this year.

Please make plans to attend before and after business sessions. You will once again have the opportunity to tantalize your taste buds with the tasty treats prepared by Farm Bureau women from across the state. If you are in the mood to shop, you will also have the opportunity to walk away with some incredible items from our silent auction, which will be held in the Trade Show area this year. All the proceeds from this auction will be dedicated to the newly created foundation.

A

s always, we will have a phenomenal lineup of speakers for you. Our opening session will begin by hearing about current and future weather trends from Oklahoma’s Emmy award winning Gary England, as well as great entertainment from our own Oklahoma youth. On Friday evening, you will have a night on your own to enjoy downtown Oklahoma City. At registration, our staff will assist you in planning activities that you may be interested in while in the Bricktown area.

This also will allow you as counties to get together for an evening of fun and fellowship on your own.

On Saturday, we will spend the day in business sessions, as you approve the policies that will guide the OFB Public Policy staff through the upcoming political season. All of the resolutions that will be considered have been identified by you at your August area meetings, county

resolution and annual meetings as well as the state resolution meeting. This age-old process that has proven successful for many years will once again allow the membership to draft the Farm Bureau “play book” used to move this organization forward. This year is also a Presidential election year, so you will once again have the opportunity to cast your vote for the office of president of this organization.

On Saturday evening, we will honor Farm Bureau’s finest at our Awards and Recognition VIP Banquet. You will have the opportunity to enjoy great food and entertainment from country music entertainer Joe Diffie. Upon banquet adjournment, all guests will have the opportunity to retrieve their purchased items from the silent auction in the Trade Show area. Please come prepared for an evening of enjoyment!

We will adjourn our convention on Sunday by properly giving thanks to our Lord and Savior. This year’s vespers program will feature speaker Congressman James Lankford, along with the musical entertainment of Toby and Cade Baldwin, the Leu family and Sharon Rue of Duncan, Oklahoma. I know this time will be very special, and you will not want to miss our time of worship.

I look forward to seeing many of you throughout the fall at your county annual meetings and again in November. Thank you for you for building the legacy that will allow us to build our future!

See you there.

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Country

Gardening

BY JOE BENTON

Extension Education, Ag & CED Pottawatomie County OSU Extension Service

To repot houseplants, or not

T

his is a good time of year. Many homeowners are bringing houseplants back inside or even just getting those inside ready for winter. It’s also a good time to repot plants if needed, and potting outside is preferable as messes are much easier to clean up!

So how do you know if a plant needs repotting? Do any of your houseplants wilt between normal waterings? Do the roots protrude from drainage holes? Has there been little or no new growth? Are there white salts on the soil surface? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, it’s probably time to repot. Generally speaking, young and fast growing plants will need repotting every six months to a year, older ones every few years.

You can tell when a plant needs repotting by knocking the soil ball out of the pot and checking the roots. To do this, invert the plant, hold your hand over the soil and gently tap the pot edge on the table to loosen the soil. If the roots are exposed with little soil covering them, it’s time to repot.

If your plant isn’t growing or looking well, this is the time to check root color. They should be firm and often white, with many tiny root hairs covering them. If brown or mushy with discolored patches, they likely have a root rot – often from overwatering. If just a few sickly roots, simply prune them off. If most look sickly, then discard the plant but try making some stem or leaf cuttings first.

For repotting, you will need good quality potting soil, available at garden stores or you can make your own. If buying one, make sure to get one for indoor or potted plants. Garden soil, or mixes containing soil, should be avoided as they are not suited for pot culture and often keep plants too wet. I would

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recommend a “peat-lite” medium, which contains peat moss, and some perlite (the small white granules) and perhaps vermiculite (the silvery granules, an expanded mica). A purchased mix also usually has some nutrition and lime to raise the soil acidity or pH. If making your own, you’ll need to at least correct for the latter.

When repotting, use a pot slightly larger than the one the plant is currently in. Keep the old potting mix at the same level in the new pot. If white salts, moss or other growth is on the surface, scrape this off before planting and replace with fresh potting mix. Don’t bury the stem base. Firm the new soil around the old soil ball, being careful not to pack it down too tightly. Allow at least one-half inch space from soil to rim to make watering easier and more thorough.

D

on’t forget to fertilize, following instructions on the label. Water well, but don’t overwater and don’t let the pot sit in a saucer of water.

Obviously you’ll want to use a saucer if on furniture – just empty it after watering. Keep the plant in a warm place at least to start so roots can resume growth. Also, keep away from drafts, as these keep pot and soil cool on cold days and nights.

If your plant is too big already, especially to put in an even larger pot, you may need to divide off a piece or divide it into sections.

Obvious shoots or clumps of them can be easily separated such as with peace lilies. If your plants get leggy, you may just need to root a section of stem and then pot this, discarding the original plant after your cutting is rooted.

Those with woody stems may be very difficult to root.

To root a stem section about 3 to 4 inches or so, simply remove the lower leaves – only

leaving a few near the tip. Some root easily in water, others you may want to stick in a rooting medium that drains well and has lots of air space. Good rooting media are perlite, vermiculite, and a 50:50 combination of these two, or even moist sand and peat moss mixed.

Place cuttings in pots, then enclose loosely in a plastic bag out of direct sun. Check daily for moisture, misting if needed, but don’t keep too wet. After several weeks, gently tug or pull on the cutting, and if it doesn’t pull out, it is likely rooted enough to pot.

I

want to let readers know that this will be my last column for the magazine. I will be retiring from the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service at the end of December 2011 after more than 31 years of service. I have appreciated the opportunity to write this quarterly column for the Oklahoma Country magazine the last seven years. I have talked to people from all over the state concerning column topics over the years and have greatly appreciated their interest. I have always received wonderful support from the folks putting the magazine out. You should be proud of their professionalism and abilities in putting together a quality product. Again, thank you for allowing me to enter your home with horticulture information. I hope I have provided you usable and enjoyable information.

Blessing to all and keep gardening!

Oklahoma State University, U. S. Department of Agriculture, state and local government’s cooperating. The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, or status as a veteran and is an equal opportunity employer.

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Fire

PLAYING WITH

By Candace Krebs

h

A mother and daughter share pride in their Oklahoma roots, a flair for entrepreneurship and a talent for feeding their creative fires with peppers and pottery.

Heat fuels the creative fires of Suan Grant and her daughter Robin Wolf.

Suan Grant and daughter Robin Wolf share space at the Bricktown Marketplace in Oklahoma City, where they market gourmet jelly and first class pottery.

(Photo by Dustin Mielke)

The two women have each used it to capture the distinctive flavor of their surroundings through entirely different art forms.

Grant turns some of the world’s hottest peppers into a boldly flavored jewel-toned jelly; Wolf shapes Oklahoma clay into pots and bowls forged and glazed in a glowing kiln. Though thousands of miles separate the original sources of their inspiration, their close proximity in central Oklahoma now allows them to showcase their ingenuity cooperatively while benefiting from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture’s Made in Oklahoma program.

Mutual respect for hard work, originality and a history that links them back to one of the state’s most prominent agricultural families strengthens the mother-daughter bond even further.

“My great-grandparents, John and Rachel Long, first settled outside the town of Dover,” Grant said. “He was the country doctor and acted as Kingfisher County coroner. In 1889, along with 50,000 others, they made a wild scramble to file their claim. So we’ve got a lot of clan spirits around here.”

The Longs’ sons later sought land up in the Manchester area when it was opened to settlement. It was there near Anthony, Kan., where Grant grew up, married a custom harvester and gave birth to her daughter, Robin. After Grant was divorced from her first husband, she taught herself the medical records trade. Robin went to live with her dad in Yuma, Colo., while Project HOPE, a health and humanitarian organization, sent Grant to Jamaica to work as a medical records consultant.

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Grant arrived on the Caribbean island in 1974 and quickly fell in love with the hot and spicy cuisine, which features jerk chicken or pork and thick peppery soups.

“Scotch bonnet pepper jelly is used in almost every kitchen on the island and throughout the Caribbean,” Grant said.

Four years later, she and her new husband were forced to leave due to political instability. They settled in Florida, where he ran a business exporting hotel supplies to the Caribbean and she continued making the famous scotch bonnet pepper jelly for herself and her family. Years later in 2003, after her husband died of Alzheimer’s, Grant returned to Oklahoma to live closer to her roots. She brought her special jelly with her.

Jalapeno jellies offer a tantalizing combination of hot and sweet, but the habanero pepper gives Grant’s variation a twist, one that some fans have described as addictive.

“It’s a totally different flavor,” she said. “It’s the taste of habaneros, which are the hottest family of peppers, with a citrus undertone. What /KLAHOMA #OUNTRY s &ALL s

I’ve done is retained the flavor and tamed the heat.”

Grant has adapted the fire-engine cuisine of the Jamaican natives — who grow up eating the world’s hottest foods — to the somewhat milder American palate.

Like so many homemade condiments, her one-of-a-kind concoction became the catalyst for a business after countless acquaintances told her she ought to “bottle that stuff.”

Two years ago, Grant took the one-day “Basic Training” workshop for food business entrepreneurs at the Robert M. Kerr Food and Agricultural Products Center at Oklahoma State University and discovered her recipe had commercial promise. Thousands of jars in sales later, she said, “I’m still working with them on a day-to-day basis. I couldn’t be happier. I’m so pleased with how it’s come along.”

With spare, elegant packaging appealing to discriminating shoppers and high quality ingredients that leave them hooked, it was only a matter of time before her breakout moment. In early 2011, Suan’s Scotch Bonnet Pepper Jelly won a Gourmet Gold Award at The Gourmet Market in Dallas, Texas. More than 200,000 buyers from across the globe attend 50-plus markets there a year, and her participation led to several favorable mentions in national specialty food magazines. Grant’s promotion of her jelly at the Dallas Gourmet Food Show is one of several ways the Food and Agricultural Products Center continues to support her enterprise.

Suan’s jellies are available in specialty stores in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, including Whole Foods and Petty’s Fine Foods, as well as in smaller cities like Enid and Lawton. After her appearances in Dallas and on the cover of Fancy Food and Culinary Products Magazine, she began receiving orders from states as far away as

California. Her products are now sold in more than 75 stores nationwide.

Grant is responsible for her own distributing and shipping, and she sells gift sets of four online at www.suansfoods.com.

Although the most popular way to enjoy her jelly is spread on a cracker with cream cheese, customers have given Grant welcome feedback on serving it as a glaze on various meats, an ingredient in apple pie, or melted and poured over vanilla ice cream and topped with toasted pecans to make what she calls “a fire and ice sundae.”

Another unique feature about Suan’s jelly is that it qualifies for support from the Made in Oklahoma program since it is manufactured, packaged and marketed in the state. Could the tropical peppers that infuse her jelly ever be Oklahoma-grown? It is an idea that appeals to her, although tropical pepper production is quite limited for now.

Top left: Suan Grant holds a gift pack of Suan’s Scotch Bonnet Pepper Jelly, available in stores across Oklahoma, nine other states and online. For a complete list of locations, visit her website at www.suansfoods.com.

(Photo by Dustin Mielke)

Bottom left: The habanero pepper in Suan’s pepper jelly gives it a unique twist that has been called addictive. She says it is “the taste of habaneros with a citrus undertone.”

Pepper jelly fans say they use it for everything from a spread on crackers to an ingredient in apple pie.

(Photo by Dustin Mielke)

Center: Robin Wolf scouts for unusual natural elements on land the Wolf family owns and farms along the Cimarron River to incorporate into her pitchers and bowls. The color spectrum of the Oklahoma landscape — ripe wheat, crimson cliffs — inspires her artwork.

(Photo by Candace Krebs)

Top right: Potter Robin Wolf molds one of her unique pottery items where she transformed the former master bedroom of the Wolf home east of Kingfisher into a studio.

(Photo by Candace Krebs)

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The items Grant’s daughter, Robin Wolf, creates are not only made in Oklahoma; they are made from Oklahoma.

In Wolf’s studio on a multi-generational family farm northeast of Kingfisher, she turns pieces of the Oklahoma prairie into fine art to serve a practical purpose. Branches, vines, horns and feathers are incorporated into pitchers, mugs, bowls and other useable pieces shaped from Oklahoma’s red clay. She also adds hand-shaped copper accents to some of the items.

“Things that just gather dust drive me nuts,” Wolf said. “I make pottery that is to be used; I hold it and carry it, testing to see what it will feel like in your hands.”

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Seven miles from her house, along the red cliffs that frame the Cimarron River, she hunts for treasures like uniquely angled branches and roots. While part of the farm’s 800 black cows graze with their calves in the distance and a hawk circles lazily overhead, she allows nature’s beauty to inspire her.

“It’s a stunning piece of land, useless for farming, but perfect for deer hunting,” she observed with a smile.

Wolf learned how to make pottery in high school; she knew by age 16 she was a potter at heart. But that talent lay dormant for three decades as she raised her daughters and worked several jobs including insurance adjusting.

Six years ago, she married Larry Wolf, who along with brothers Robert and Bill had built up the sizeable Wolf Bros. diversified farming operation near Kingfisher.

“He and two brothers started in high school when they bought some cows and acreage from their Granddad Willms,” she said with pride.

“Now they farm several thousand acres of cattle, hay, sesame, wheat, sorghum, canola and rye. They are very progressive and willing to try new crops.”

One day Larry Wolf opened the door to their master bedroom suite, and his bed was gone. In its place was a pottery wheel. His wife had finally decided to get serious about her art.

“This room has the best light and the best square footage in our house,” Robin explained with a laugh. “He has tolerated my pottery stuff pretty well.”

Together, mother and daughter made something of a creative debut at the 2010 Reining Horse Futurity, an international event held annually at the Oklahoma County Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City. “Mom and I did very well at our coming out party,” Wolf recalled. “It polished our image.”

In fact, the experience inspired Wolf to bring in the Oklahoma Art Guild to present an “Oklahoma artists only” show during the equine extravaganza, which became the highest-selling art show the association has ever organized. Wolf points to its international scope and the desire visitors have to take home a memento from the place where they spend a few days competing.

More recently, Wolf’s close friend and gourd artist Brenda Dewald urged her to enter her work in the prestigious Western Design Conference. To her thrill, she was among only 100 artists accepted to participate in the world-class exhibition of museum quality functional Western art held in early September. She quickly made plans to share her booth at the Jackson Hole, Wyo., show with Dewald and other top Oklahoma artists; painter Katryn Leitner, also of Kingfisher, and jewelry maker Barbara Jacques of Pawhuska.

The design conference was a smashing success. Wolf won best of class in the home accents division, while another Oklahoma artist, Lisa Sorrell of Guthrie, took honors for best leather crafting with her hand-tooled boots.

Back in Oklahoma, Grant and Wolf share space at Bricktown’s Red Dirt Emporium, a retail “incubator” in Oklahoma City’s historic Miller-Jackson building that helps launch homegrown artists and entrepreneurs while featuring a diverse array of regionally themed wares.

“We couldn’t do it without each other,” Wolf said of the motherdaughter collaboration. While Grant has “great taste and the ability to merchandize,” Wolf lends her “muscle” and mechanical ability to their efforts. Robin’s three daughters Kaily, Lexie and Kian also have contributed various talents and extra elbow grease over the years.

Selling direct to the public is a lot of work, but both find the interaction a key to marketing their products — and their home state.

“It’s always worth the extra work when you’re promoting your own product,” Grant said. “I think that’s what it’s all about. It’s keeping me young.”

Meanwhile, Wolf launched the first-ever Kingfisher art festival this year and attends around 15 other shows annually.

“You have to think outside of the box,” she said. “You no longer have to have a brick-and-mortar business to be successful. As an artist, you have to be willing to take your art to the people and to make yourself easily accessible.”

The success both mother and daughter are enjoying is giving them an opportunity to be ambassadors for a state that helped shape their unique character, interests and abilities.

“We present such a great impression when people meet us in person,” Wolf said of Robin’s pottery collection Oklahomans in general. “When people come and Suan’s pepper jelly are available in the Red here, we have to take every opportunity to Dirt Emporium, a retail capitalize on that.” “incubator” located in the historic Miller-Jackson building of downtown Oklahoma City.

(Photo by Dustin Mielke)

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“A Good

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One year ago, more than 700 cattle buyers fell victim to the shut down and bankruptcy of cattle broker Eastern Livestock Company, LLC. Since then, Oklahoma Farm Bureau and the state legislature have taken action to protect cattlemen in similar situations.

Deal Gone Bad” E

xactly one year ago this October, cattle rancher and Oklahoma Farm Bureau member Mike Loula of Colony shipped a load of steers to the now-infamous cattle broker Eastern Livestock Company, LLC. It was his second sale to Eastern in just one month’s time after the company offered him the highest bid. Early in November, the Eastern check Loula carried from his mailbox read $62,731.60. But that money never made it to his bank.

HOT CHECKS AND THE COLD SHOULDER

“My bank contacted me on the 2nd or 3rd and said, ‘Hey, this check has come back. We’re going to run it again. We don’t think there will be any problem,’” Loula said. “I wasn’t concerned at the time.”

A hot check worth almost $63,000 is a big deal to a small Angus-cross cow/calf and stocker operation like Loula’s, but he trusted Eastern to sort things out. Loula even called the owner of Eastern Livestock, Tom Gibson,

By Gail Banzet Photos by Dustin Mielke

to check on his money. He was assured the situation would be resolved.

“Several more days passed,” Loula said. “There was still no money, so I called Gibson again. He apologized and was very sure that it would be taken care of. Since then, I haven’t talked to him.”

A couple of hours away in Elmore City, Dollar K Cattle Company owner Brent Kuehny sat in his office fielding a similar phone call.

“A friend called and said ‘hey, have you heard Eastern’s broke?’” he said.

“This had been a pretty common rumor throughout the years, but I made a few other calls and it sure sounded like it was for real this time.”

Unlike Loula, Kuehny’s history with the Gibson family dated back 25 years when he worked for a feed yard in Kansas.

“I had an ongoing business relationship with them,” he said. “We could buy cattle from them and contract them back at a wide enough margin that we could make some money.”

Left: A seasoned cattlemen with decades of feed lot experience, Brent Kuehny’s relationship with Eastern Livestock dated back 25 years. Although Kuehny said Eastern always did “questionable things,” he harbors more anger toward Eastern’s bank, rather than the Gibson family.

Right: Brent Kuehny and his wife, Sheri, own Dollar K Cattle Company in Elmore City. They said the bad Eastern check they received for $160,000 was a huge blow to their business. Now, they have to pay that amount to their bank out of pocket … and with interest.

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Kuehny’s last deal with Eastern involved three loads of 800-weight feeder cattle that were shipped back to the broker on Oct. 30. His check for $160,000 cleared the bank twice before it was returned to Kuehny with a “refer to maker” stamp. The Dollar K Cattle Company owner also put in a call to Eastern – this time Grant Gibson answered the phone.

“I knew we were in trouble when I called and said, ‘Grant, we’re out $160,000. What are we going to do?’ And he said, ‘Oh no, it didn’t get you too did it?’” Kuehny said.

DAMAGE CONTROL

In the days and weeks to follow, Loula, Kuehny and more than 700 other cattle sellers in 30 states would learn that Eastern Livestock Company, based out of New Albany, Ind., had gone bankrupt. At the same time, the broker’s lender, Fifth Third Bank of Cincinnati, Ohio, had shut them down, effective immediately.

“Eastern always operated somewhat loose,” Kuehny said. “There were always questionable things they did, but they seemed to continue to roll.

Now we know how they did it.”

According to a blog posted by Eastern’s bankruptcy trustee, Jim Knauer, the company was involved in a check kiting scheme. He explained in an entry dated March 2011 that, “Eastern’s finances were being pumped up by what is commonly called a check ‘kite.’ A check kite occurs when a check drawn on another bank is deposited into a checking account and the deposited check is no good. The banking system will clear this check for a couple of days, which gives the maker of the check time to deposit another check into its own account. That newly deposited check is equal in value to the check previously issued, so the bad check presented for deposit appears to be covered by the new deposit.”

While the apparent scheme points mostly to Eastern, some of its

victims, including Loula and Kuehny, said Fifth Third Bank is responsible for the way in which Eastern failed.

“I have a lot of anger toward the bank – they should have let things cycle through,” Loula said. “I really feel that there’s probably a lot of cattle that just disappeared in this situation because the bank just pulled the plug on them instantly.”

Ask Kuehny about Eastern’s demise, and he too will openly explain why he harbors more hard feelings and blame toward the bank, rather than the Gibson family.

“Fifth Third Bank picked the highest-volume time of Eastern’s business to gather as much of their money as they possibly could,” he said. “I think they knew Eastern Livestock was in financial trouble and was probably cooking books for quite some time. They picked that point in time to put up the walls and gather money.”

As of press time, Kuehny and cow/calf producer Mike Loula were still waiting on paychecks to cover their cattle. Shortly after Loula learned he was holding a hot check, he contacted his district attorney but was told nothing could be done.

“I have since filed suit against Eastern Livestock, which a month or so after I did that, went into bankruptcy protection,” Loula said. “Basically, you can do nothing.”

Dollar K Cattle Company also hired an attorney and filed a claim against Eastern’s bond.

“There’s no one to talk to, nothing to do other than sic your attorney on the situation,” Kuehny said.

THE INTRODUCTION OF SB 530

One such attorney currently representing Eastern Livestock victims is Jeff Todd of Oklahoma City. According to his research, cattle producers,

Left: From large feed yard shipments to smaller loads of home grown yearlings, cattle across the country were displaced when Fifth Third Bank shut down Eastern Livestock and froze their accounts.

Right: Caddo County Farm Bureau member Mike Loula runs stockers and a cow/calf operation near Colony. He is one of more than 700 sellers in 30 states who lost money when Eastern Livestock went bankrupt. Loula said the loss of a $62,000 paycheck has forced his family to tighten their budget and make some sacrifices.

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auction companies, cattle brokers, feedlots, trucking companies and banks although it would surely face some resistance on a federal level, the are still trying to recover financial damages linked to Eastern. senator said he believes a similar piece of legislation should be considered “We were very busy sorting out the various legal issues and responding in Washington D.C. to time-sensitive matters during that first month,” Todd said. “After the bankruptcy was filed, the work began to level off.”

LIFE WITHOUT EASTERN The attorney said several deadlines are scheduled for this fall in While Oklahoma’s cattle producers can take comfort in knowing SB 530 Eastern’s bankruptcy case as it “proceeds in orderly fashion.” Todd’s firm will protect them in the future, Eastern victims Kuehny and Loula are still has been in contact with the Eastern bankruptcy trustee’s attorneys who trying to make up for the money they lost. are working to officially close the broker’s doors for good.

“We have to start paying back our bank that $160,000 out of pocket Claims are under investigation and every month,” said Kuehny’s wife, Sheri. assets are being gathered for liquidation, “It’s costing us $26.10 in interest every but what about all of those producers, day, and I think about that every day.” feedlots and sale barns out thousands of For small cow/calf producer dollars? As Todd worked with people in Loula, the financial burden is a the cattle industry who were impacted by strain on not only his operation but Eastern Livestock’s situation, he noticed also his entire family. a theme: ranchers wanted to know how “We’ve cut things out of our budget they could prevent another good deal and taken out some family-time stuff from going bad. that we would’ve liked to have done,” “We looked at ways to protect he said. “The money is still borrowed Oklahoma cattlemen through legislation,” through the bank, and I will just try to Todd said. “The Oklahoma oil and gas work on paying it off if I never receive industry had been through a similar any of it.” situation in 2008 and 2009 as a result of As Eastern Livestock Company’s the SemCrude bankrupty. After analyzing presence fades from the U.S. cattle that legislation, it became clear to me industry, both Kuehny and Loula said that a similar approach could provide they now approach business deals with additional protection to Oklahoma more caution. SB 530 is a smart first cattlemen.” step in protecting cattlemen and The 2010 oil and gas legislation was women, but today’s cattle sales tend to the inspiration for SB 530, drafted by still carry that old western “mantra” of Todd and then authored by Sen. Sean “possession means ownership.” Even Burrage and Rep. Don Armes in the 2011 after writing the legislation, Todd said Oklahoma legislature. As the first of its there will always be some element of kind in the United States, Todd said SB risk involved in the cattle industry.

530 grants a statutory lien to Oklahoma “The steps that must be taken to cattle producers, which follows the cattle fully protect a seller of livestock aren’t until the producer is actually paid for the necessarily compatible with how cattle. This way, the rancher, the business is done,” he said. “If anything, rancher’s bank and livestock auctions are the Eastern debacle has shown Dollar K Cattle Company owner Brent Kuehny keeps all paid the promised amount – no matter what. producers that they need to know who they of his cattle contracts on file including this old “Basically, it is designed to make sure the are doing business with, make sure they are agreement with Eastern Livestock. Kuehny’s last deal expectations of those involved in the sales dealing with reputable folks and be proactive with Eastern in October 2010, totaled more than transaction are fulfilled,” Todd said. in their relationships.” $160,000 – a check he has yet to receive.

SB 530 also went to great lengths not to While Kuehny said he used to consider impact the flow of Oklahoma’s cattle industry and Eastern an established and reliable client, he make Oklahoma cattle less attractive to buyers who might have concern also has changed his outlook. for purchasing cattle subject to a lien. Todd said the legislation specifies “Naturally, I’m more leery as everyone is,” he said. “Some times it’s just that a subsequent buyer of the cattle who pays for the animals in good the nature of the cattle business itself.” faith takes the cattle free of the lien.

Once final adjustments were made to the bill, Oklahoma Farm Bureau Editor’s Note: lobbied in its favor, and author Burrage discovered it was an easy sell.

On Sept. 22, 2011, a federal grand jury and Kentucky grand jury issued “I presented the bill in committee and on the Senate floor with very few the first criminal indictments in connection with the failure of Eastern questions and no debate,” he said. “Farm Bureau deserves the credit in Livestock. Eastern owner Thomas Gibson and chief operating officer Steve that they had properly informed the members of the Senate about the McDonald each were indicted on one federal charge of mail fraud. Both provisions and worthiness of the legislation.” men voluntarily turned themselves into the U.S. Marshall’s office, SB 530 moved on to pass through the House and was signed into law appeared in court and were released. Also, a grand jury in Kentucky earlier this year by Gov. Mary Fallin. Burrage referred to the bill as a model indicted Gibson, McDonald and two other Eastern directors on 172 counts of how Farm Bureau looks out for the interest of its members, and of theft by deception and engaging in organized criminal activity. s /KLAHOMA #OUNTRY s &ALL

Vascular Screening Can Help

Save Your Life!

Stroke Prevention Plus has partnered with Oklahoma Farm Bureau to offer preventative medical screenings at a discounted price. These ultrasound screenings are interpreted by a radiologist to identify at-risk individuals.

Prevention Through Early Detection 4 Screenings Available through

Stroke Prevention Plus

Are You at Risk?

Check two or more and you could be at risk.

High blood pressure?

High cholesterol?

40 or older?

Smoke cigarettes?

Diabetes?

Exposed to second-hand smoke?

Overweight?

Stressful occupation or lifestyle?

Family history of stroke/heart disease?

FARM BUREAU SCREENING DATES & LOCATIONS Sept. 27 & 28: Jackson County-Altus Sept. 29 & 30: Caddo County-Anadarko Oct. 18, 19 & 20: Okmulgee County-Okmulgee Oct. 24: Pontotoc County-Ada Oct. 25: Garvin County-Pauls Valley Oct. 26: Seminole County-Seminole Oct. 27: Hughes County-Holdenville Oct. 31: Pushmataha County-Antlers Nov. 1: Choctaw County-Hugo Nov. 2: McCurtain County-Idabel Nov. 3 & 4: Leflore County-Poteau Nov. 9: Kingfisher County-Kingfisher Nov. 14: Nobel County-Perry Nov. 15: Grant County-Medford Nov. 16: Alfalfa County-Cherokee Nov. 17: Nowata County-Nowata Nov. 21: McIntosh County-Checotah Nov. 28 & 29: Comanche County-Lawton

1. Carotid/Stroke Screening

2. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

Please call the county office to schedule an appointment.

(Please call your county office for counties not listed.)

Farm Bureau Members: 4 Screenings $100 Non-Members: 4 Screenings $125 Cash, check and major credit cards accepted. Flexible spending accounts may be used.

3008 E 87th Street, Tulsa Oklahoma 74137 | 866-296-9977 918-296-9171 Email: strokeprevok@aol.com | www.strokepreventionplus.net

3. Peripheral Vascular Disease Screening 4. Bone Density Screening to identify your risk for Osteoporosis

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Chad Selman Tulsa County

YF&R Profile

Q & A with young agricultural leader Chad Selman

At 28 years old, Tulsa County YF&R member Chad Selman already holds leadership roles in several agricultural organizations. As a pecan grower and cattleman near Skiatook, he's eager to learn and improve his farming operation.

While the agriculture industry's older members provide wisdom and experience, the younger generation offers new ideas, enthusiasm and a glimpse of what the future holds. Twenty-eight-year-old pecan grower Chad Selman of Tulsa County is one of those energetic agriculturalists who is willing to participate in just about anything listed under the Farm Bureau umbrella.

His involvement in the Young Farmers & Ranchers program since 2006 has not only helped improve his family's pecan operation but also his character as an agricultural leader.

In addition to the pecan groves he manages near Skiatook, Selman runs a small herd of cows and serves on several agricultural-related boards. He may be young, but he is no stranger to leadership roles that s /KLAHOMA #OUNTRY s &ALL

greatly influence the ag industry. Oklahoma Farm Bureau recently had the opportunity to sit down with the ambitious agricultural leader.

OFB: How large is your pecan operation and when did you start building your cattle herd?

CS: Overall, we probably have close to a couple thousand acres of pecan trees. We harvest about 50 different groves in five different counties. I bought some cattle as soon as I got out of college, and now I've built my herd up to about 50 cows.

OFB: How did you get involved in YF&R? CS: Mike Spradling (OFB president) talked to my dad. At the time,

we didn't really know a whole lot about the organization. I went to a YF&R conference and then a YF&R golf tournament. After that, I just kind of kept going. I've been really fortunate to go on a lot of trips. I've been to Washington D.C. probably four or five times, Seattle, New Orleans, San Antonio - a lot of American Farm Bureau Federation conventions. I attend all of Oklahoma's YF&R conferences.

OFB: What are some of the other agricultural organizations you're involved in?

CS: I was in the most recently completed Oklahoma Agriculture Leadership Program class where we traveled all over the state. We took trips to Kansas City, Washington D.C. and also went overseas and toured agriculture in Spain and Morocco. After that, I got elected to the Tulsa County Farm Service Agency Board.

I've been serving on that for two years, and this will also be my second year on the Oklahoma Pecan Growers Association Board.

OFB: How has your YF&R participation helped you excel in all of these other activities?

CS: I've been going to all of these conferences and meeting all of these other leaders. I talk to them about what they're doing with their ag operations. With these new acquaintances, they're going to teach me a few things – maybe give me a few new ideas. They're going to help me get into other leadership roles and become a leader.

You have to train to be one – you're just not automatically a leader.

OFB: You're very involved with boards and groups that a lot of people your age would say are for those who are 50 years and older.

Why do you want to get involved at such a young age?

CS: It's very important for a young person to get into older crowds because they kind of need to shed some new light on things. Maybe they have been doing things the exact same way for 50 years. I'm newer and might find ways we can change things for the better. I want to boost their enthusiasm.

Chad is an active member of Tulsa County's YF&R chapter, attending most state events. He also serves on the Tulsa County Farm Service Agency Board and the Oklahoma Pecan Growers Association Board.

In all of Chad's leadership activities, he's hoping to learn from his elders and contribute to agriculture. "You have to train to be one – you're just not automatically a leader," he said.

OFB: Why is it important to become a leader in the ag industry?

CS: Well, there's not a lot of us. I know a lot of people are really busy and aren't able to do it, and if I can find a minute or two just to get away and do this one thing, I can help agriculture. I love ag – it's my livelihood.

OFB: If you were talking to someone your age who was involved in agriculture, but knew nothing about Farm Bureau or YF&R, why would you tell them it's important to join?

CS: I would tell them they should join to meet new people and learn more about agriculture. I don't think you're going to learn more about ag anywhere else than you would at Farm Bureau.

OFB: What do you hope to contribute to YF&R and Farm Bureau?

What are your goals within the organization?

CS: I'd like to get on the state YF&R committee and a county board and see what happens from there.

OFB: We are curious about Oklahoma's pecan crop this year. Since you're about to begin harvesting pecans, what kind of crop are you expecting and how much are the pecans affected by the drought?

CS: The trees right now are really stressing and starting to lose some of their foliage.

They're obviously not growing like they normally would. This year, we were looking at a 60 percent crop. Now due to the drought, we're back down to 20 percent. Next year, it should be back up. We get what God gives us, try to do our best and look for next year.

OFB’s Young Farmers and Ranchers Program is open to both men and women, ages 18 to 35, who hold a membership in his or her county Farm Bureau. For more information about YF&R, contact YF&R Coordinator Chris Kidd at (580) 228-4001 or Chris.Kidd@okfb.org.

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!LL !ROUND

Oklahoma

Oklahoma Farm Bureau to celebrate 70 years at annual meeting

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klahoma Farm Bureau’s 70th Annual Meeting is scheduled for Nov. 11-13, at the Cox Convention Center in downtown Oklahoma City. This year’s theme is “Living a Legacy ‌ Building our Future.â€?

Farm Bureau members from across the state will meet to conduct annual business activity and vote on policy issues for the next state legislative session. Convention highlights include the selection of three district directors, county and state awards presentations and selection of delegates for the American Farm Bureau Federation Convention. OFB also will hold a presidential election this year between current President Mike Spradling and current Vice President and District 2 Director Tom Buchanan.

Guest speakers for the annual meeting include Oklahoma City’s Channel 9 chief meteorologist Gary England. Also, country music singer Joe Diffie is scheduled to provide entertainment on Saturday night.

The OFB trade show will be housed again this year on the first floor of the Cox Convention Center in Exhibit Hall 1. Trade show hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 11, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 12. Agricultural vendors and associations along with other retail businesses will be on site.

A tentative convention schedule as of magazine press time is as follows:

Friday, November 11 A M n #REDENTIALS #OMMITTEE BREAKFAST A M n $ISCUSSION -EET ORIENTATION BEGINS A M n 2EGISTRATION A M n 4RADE 3HOW OPENS A M n 3TATE BOARD MEETING LUNCHEON A M n &"7 #ONFERENCE LUNCHEON A M n 9& 2 LUNCHEON FOR JUDGES

AND SPEAKERS P M n $ISCUSSION -EET FINALS P M n /PENING 3ESSION P M n !G &UND MEETING P M n !G ,EADERSHIP RECEPTION

Saturday, November 12 A M n #REDENTIALS #OMMITTEE BREAKFAST A M n &INANCIAL 2EVIEW #OMMITTEE

BREAKFAST A M n 4RADE 3HOW OPENS A M n 2EGISTRATION A M n /&"-)# 0OLICYHOLDERS MEETING A M n 'ENERAL 3ESSION P M n 9& 2 #AUCUS LUNCHEON P M n &"7 'AVEL #LUB LUNCHEON P M n #REDENTIALS #OMMITTEE MEETING P M n $ISTRICT #AUCUSES DISTRICT

P M n 'ENERAL 3ESSION P M n !G &UND RECEPTION P M n "ANQUET

P M n !WARDS 0ROGRAM %NTERTAINMENT

Sunday, November 13 A M n #OUNTY 0RESIDENTS BREAKFAST A M n &"7 #HAIRMANS BREAKFAST A M n "REAKFAST OF #HAMPIONS A M n 6ESPERS -EMORIAL 3ESSION A M n &"7 #OMMITTEE MEETING

"ANQUET TICKETS ARE AND CAN BE PURCHASED FROM !MY 7ILSON IN THE TRADE SHOW AREA

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One of the many prestigious awards Oklahoma Farm Bureau announces every convention is that of Farm Family of the Year.

A family is chosen based on its ability to best represent Oklahoma farming and ranching and the spirit of Oklahoma agriculture. The 2010 OFB Farm Family of the Year winner was T.J. and Diane Beach of Jackson County. This year’s finalists include: $ISTRICT ,ARRY AND *ANICE #REWS "OISE #ITY s $ISTRICT :ACH AND !MY (ARRIS (OBART s $ISTRICT "RANDON AND #ARI 7EBB 7ATONGA s $ISTRICT *ERRY AND #HRISTIE 0ETTIJOHN &LETCHER s $ISTRICT #HARLES AND -ARY 0RIEST OF 3HADY 0OINT s $ISTRICT 'REG AND -ARY ,EONARD OF !FTON s $ISTRICT 3COTT AND "RENDA .EUFELD &AIRVIEW s $ISTRICT &REDRICK AND 0AMELA #HITWOOD 3ULPHUR s $ISTRICT 2OD AND $ANA 'RIMMETT "EGGS The staff of Oklahoma Farm Bureau hopes to see everyone at this year’s 70th Annual Meeting!

OFB members now eligible for GM discount

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ligible Oklahoma Farm Bureau members can now receive a $500 discount on each qualifying 2011 or 2012 model year Chevrolet, GMC or Buick vehicle they purchase or lease. This Farm Bureau membership benefit is offered for vehicles purchased or leased at participating dealerships through Farm Bureau’s GM Private Offer.

Twenty-six GM models are part of the program such as the Chevrolet Silverado HD, recipient of the 2011 Motor Trend Truck of the Year award. A broad range of other pickup trucks, SUVs, sedans and crossovers also are included in the program.

“We are pleased to announce the roll-out of the Farm Bureau General Motors Private

Offer,” said OFB Field Services Vice President Thad Doye. “This program is a strong addition to the portfolio of benefits we offer to save members money as they and their families work hard to provide food, fiber and renewable fuels for our nation.”

To qualify for the offer, individuals must be current Farm Bureau members for at least 60 days prior to the date of delivery of the selected vehicle. Members may receive the incentive for the purchase or lease of multiple vehicles, including fleet vehicles purchased through GM’s National Fleet Purchase Program. Full details and program eligibility guidelines are available by contacting the OFB Field Services division at (405) 523-2470.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF OKLAHOMA FARM BUREAU MUTUAL INSURANCE CO.

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Oklahoma Farm Bureau hosts drought recovery summit

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lose to 100 Oklahoma Farm Bureau members and state agriculture officials attended OFB’s drought recovery summit in Oklahoma City, Aug. 30.

The purpose of the event was to help farmers and ranchers understand how to navigate their way through persisting drought conditions and make the right management decisions once rains begin to fall.

A full lineup of guests spoke at the one-day conference including state climatologist Gary McManus of the Oklahoma Climatological Survey. McManus said the latest weather models suggest the current La Nina weather pattern will remain active this fall and intensify drought conditions.

“Some counties have only had four inches of rainfall since Oct. 1, 2010, and some are more

than 20 inches below normal since last October,” he said. “No longer do we have to talk about the legendary days of the past. We are living in a legendary year.”

According to McManus, the next couple of months usually produce seasonal fall rains, but farmers and ranchers need to develop a drought plan in case that does not happen. As a result, the Noble Foundation’s range management specialist Hugh Aljoe and agricultural consultant Job Springer followed McManus with advice on how to manage pasture land and cattle herds during such extreme conditions.

“We’ve been accustomed to flying by the seat of our britches and I don’t think we’re going to be able to do that anymore,” Aljoe said.

Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Jim Reese also attended OFB’s drought summit and discussed the drought’s $2 billion loss to Oklahoma’s economy. However, the secretary was still optimistic.

“It will rain again and it will get better,” Reese said. “The crop losses can be partially offset with crop insurance and there are programs to help livestock producers.”

Farm Service Agency Director Francie Tolle spoke on programs that are available for farmers and ranchers. The day concluded with sessions from Oklahoma Ag Mediation Director Andrea Braeutigram and Oklahoma State University sociologist Duane Gill. Gill discussed the mental and psychological effects a traumatic drought can have on those involved in agriculture.

Top: Oklahoma Agriculture Secretary Jim Reese speaks to a crowd at the Oklahoma Drought Recovery Summit on Aug. 30. Reese said the historic drought will result in $2 billion in economic losses to the state of Oklahoma.

Bottom: Gary McManus of the Oklahoma Climatological Survey tells drought summit attendees that the La Nina weather pattern causing drought conditions is expected to continue into the fall.

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Farm Bureau members attend August Area Meetings

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klahoma Farm Bureau staff members wrapped up a busy month of public policy development meetings in August, attending 12 meetings in nine districts.

OFB’s public policy team relies on August Area Meetings as a means of building the foundation for its grassroots policy process. Through district meetings where members are asked to provide input and have an active voice in policy development, OFB learns what issues it should focus on during the upcoming legislative session.

Vice President of Public Policy Tyler Norvell said the 2011 round of meetings were wellattended, despite the drought and current status of the economy. District 3 kicked off the month with its August Area Meeting in El Reno on Aug. 1. District 8 followed Aug. 2, in Ada along with District 7 in Enid on Aug. 4.

Other meetings included District 6 in Pryor and Muskogee on Aug. 11, District 2 in Hobart on Aug. 15, District 4 in Ardmore on Aug. 16, and Duncan on Aug. 17, and District 9 in Sapulpa on Aug. 18. The final week of meetings took place on Aug. 22, in Guymon and Aug. 23, in Woodward for District 1 and Aug. 25, in McAlester for District 5.

A wide variety of policy issues were addressed during the month of meetings, but Norvell said there were some common themes.

“Water, truck weight regulations, and the Farm Bill were the most consistently discussed issues,” he said. “People are concerned about the statewide water plan that will be presented to the legislature next session and also the lawsuit that was recently filed against the state by the Chickasaw and Choctaw tribes.”

Following August Area Meetings, county FB members submitted their policy suggestions through the county resolutions process. Norvell said any policy ideas OFB approves must pass through the appropriate state committee and voting delegation.

“The state resolutions committee will meet and put together their state resolutions committee report, which will be presented to the voting delegates of OFB at state convention in November.”

A photo gallery of the 2011 August Area Meeting season is available at okfarmbureau.org under the “news” tab.

McClain County Farm Bureau board member Johney Taylor voices his ideas on OFB policy issues during the District 8 August Area Meeting in Ada on Aug. 2.

Cotton County Farm Bureau Director Jim Kinder (center) discusses potential policy updates as Carter County FB President Fred Chapman (left) and Comanche County FB Secretary Damon Doye (right) listen at the District 4 meeting in Ardmore, Aug. 16.

Director of Congressional Relations for the American Farm Bureau Federation Kelli Ludlum (left) chats with Ottawa County Farm Bureau Vice President James Fuser (right) during the District 6 August Area Meeting in Pryor, Aug. 11. /KLAHOMA #OUNTRY s &ALL s

Farm Bureau launches new Foundation

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klahoma Farm Bureau is pleased to announce the creation of a new agriculture advocacy effort called the Oklahoma FARM (Farming and Ranching Matters) Foundation.

The new non-profit foundation was recently established to enhance the awareness and understanding of production agriculture in Oklahoma. In today’s world, the general public’s attitude toward agriculture is largely formed through the actions of environmentalists and activists creating an atmosphere where agriculturalists are constantly defending their practices and way of life. Now, through the Foundation, OFB has a new avenue by which to educate youth and adults about agriculture before environmentalists and animal rights activists misinform the next generation.

The Foundation will provide a funding mechanism for OFB to educate the public about agriculture and begin a legacy of industry support. OFB is home to a network of internal potential donors who are passionate about promoting agriculture from the right perspective, and it is that group of people who will help the Foundation educate the general

public about our industry. Several tax advantages and estate planning benefits are available to those who contribute to the foundation. Donations from individuals could result in up to a 50 percent tax deduction.

Potential Foundation activities will revolve around educating and promoting farmers, ranchers and the general public about how an abundant, safe and affordable food supply is produced. As a result, consumers will have a true understanding of agriculture and the people who are a part of its industry.

“All of us at Oklahoma Farm Bureau are excited to launch this new foundation and tell the true story of agriculture,” said OFB Executive Director Monica Wilke. “It’s time we speak with a louder voice and help our farmers and ranchers promote their industry.”

The new foundation will consist of a

15-member board of directors, five at-large positions, and six at-large donor positions. OFB’s president and vice president will serve as members of the board, and the OFB executive director and vice president of public policy will serve in an ex-officio/advisory capacity.

This inaugural year provides a unique opportunity for charter donors to invest at the ground floor of the Foundation. Charter donor levels include platinum at $2,500, gold at $1,000, silver at $500 and bronze at $250. To contribute as an inaugural charter donor, please submit a contribution form before Dec. 31, 2011. Forms can be found online at okfarmfoundation.org or call the OFB Executive Office at (405) 523-2303 to learn more.

Note: The Oklahoma FARM (Farming and Ranching Matters) Foundation is not associated in any way with the “Farm Foundation, NFP”

Inhofe visits OFB office U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe updates Oklahoma Farm Bureau members about current events in Washington D.C. The senator visited the OFB Oklahoma City office on Aug. 24, for a town hall meeting. More than 70 OFB officials and members attended the event.

Inhofe discussed his concerns regarding a lack of military funding, government overregulation, excessive spending, and America’s ability to recover its own energy. The senator wrapped up a week of summer town hall meetings with his OFB stop.

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RETIRED FARM BUREAU EDITOR LEAVES STRONG LEGACY

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hen you first met Mike Nichols, it membership publication Farm Bureau did not take long to learn this was Journal and later the Oklahoma Country a man who did not waste words. magazine, Mike wrote hundreds of stories He told you straight up what he thought. about the many achievements of employees This no-nonsense approach served him well and volunteer Farm Bureau leaders. This as editor for the Oklahoma Farm Bureau brought him into close contact with some of publications.

Mike’s favorite people; he had a Mike retired in December strong respect for those who 2010, and after a short but made their living off courageous battle with the land. cancer, he passed Mike was always away Sept. 9. He glad to visit with leaves behind a farmers and written legacy ranchers, often few can match. asking if there Mike’s was “any good attention to fishing in the detail would ponds” or “good often catch hunting in the spelling and fields,” as punctuation these were two errors others of Mike’s missed. Before favorite sending out outdoor any story, news activities. release or photo The agriculture caption, we producers could always had Mike easily relate to Mike, check it for errors. as they shared similar He wore his editor’s ideas and values. title with pride and His raspy laugh and dry distinction. sense of humor After were as much a Mike Nichols served as editor of several Oklahoma Farm graduating with a part of Mike as his Bureau publications during his 30-year career with OFB. B.S. degree in pen and camera.

He will be greatly missed by the Farm Bureau family.

Agricultural He understood the Journalism from importance of the Oklahoma State University in 1972, Mike facts and writing an accurate account, but he worked as a reporter for the Shawnee News- never let that keep him from weaving an Star before starting his Farm Bureau career. interesting story that drew readers in, For most of his 30 years at Farm Bureau, compelling them to read everything, down to Mike was known as the “camera man” as he the last sentence. would take photos of new employees and The pictures Mike took and the thousands Farm Bureau leaders. But his ability to of words he penned will serve as only part of tightly edit stories set him apart from the his legacy. The remainder can be found in his average journalist. family and the many people he met along the During his service as editor of the way. He left his mark on this world as a good employee publication Spotlight, the man doing good work.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, AND CIRCULATION 1. Publication Title: Oklahoma Country 2. Publication Number: 1544-6476 3. Filing Date: September 20, 2011 4. Issue Frequency: Published in January, April, July and October.

5. Number of issues published annually: 4 6. Annual Subscription Price: $1.00 members; $15.00 non-members 7. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: 2501 North Stiles Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma 73105-3126 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: 2501 North Stiles Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma 73105-3126 9. Full names and complete mailing addresses of publisher, editor, and managing editor: Publisher: Oklahoma Farm Bureau, 2501 North Stiles Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105-3126 Editor: Gail Banzet, 2501 North Stiles Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105-3126 Managing Editor: Gail Banzet, 2501 North Stiles Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105-3126 10. Owner (if owned by a corporation, its name and address must be stated and also immediately thereafter the names and addresses of stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, the names and addresses of the individual owners must be given. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, its name and address as well as that of each individual must be given. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, its name and address must be stated.)

Oklahoma Farm Bureau 2501 N. Stiles Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105-3126 NON-PROFIT CORPORATION. 11. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None 12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at special rates) The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: Has not changed during preceding 12 months 13. Publication name: Oklahoma Country 14. Issue date for circulation data below: Summer 2011 15. Extent and nature of circulation A. Total no. copies (net press run) (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 138,214 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 135,060 B. Paid and/or requested circulation 1. Paid/requested outside-county mail subscriptions stated on Form 3541 (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 137,996 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 134,842 2. Paid in-county subscriptions (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 0 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 0 3. Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, counter sales, and other non-USPS paid distribution (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 0 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 0 4. Other classes mailed through the USPS (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 0 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 0 C. Total paid and/or requested circulation (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 137,996 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 134,842 D. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail) 1. Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 0 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 0 2. 0 0 3. 0 0 4. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means) (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 0 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 0 E. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 0 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 0 F. Total distribution (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 137,996 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 134,842 G. Copies not distributed (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 218 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 218 H. Total (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 138,214 (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 135,060 I. Percent Paid and/or requested circulation (average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months): 100% (no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date): 100% I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete.

– Gail Banzet

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Farm Bureau supports farm truck legislation

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klahoma Fifth District Congressman James Lankford’s bill allowing broader weight restrictions on farm trucks received strong support from Oklahoma Farm Bureau this summer.

Lankford introduced the Farmers’ Freedom Act July 7, to allow farmers to haul commodities across state boundaries without violating weight limits. Current law forces farm trucks to be covered under more restrictive federal regulations when loads exceed 26,000 pounds.

This is especially burdensome when the trucks cross borders, even though the truck may be considered legal within each state.

“We have many producers who live near state borders and transport grain and livestock to the nearest market, which may be across the state line,” said Mike Spradling, president of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau. “This bill would make

AFBF pleased with FMSCA decision

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it easier to transport our goods to market and he American Farm Bureau Federation is continue to ensure a safe, affordable food pleased the U.S. Department of supply.”

Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Lankford, a member of the House Safety Administration listened to farmer and Transportation Committee, said current federal rancher concerns regarding changes to transportation legislation is another example of agricultural transportation regulations and government overregulation. commercial drivers license provisions.

“We are slowing down commerce with these As a result of comments received from AFBF types of burdensome regulations,” Lankford said. and others, Transportation Secretary Ray “I am not anti-government, but I am against big, LaHood said in August that the FMCSA has no inefficient government.” intention to propose new regulations governing Joining Lankford as a lead author of the the transport of agricultural products. Also, he legislation is Second District Oklahoma said the agency has released guidance to states Congressman Dan Boren. Rep. Boren worked so they clearly understand common-sense with former U.S. Rep. exemptions “to allow Mary Fallin on farmers, their A grain truck weighs out at an Oklahoma co-op similar legislation in employees, and their during wheat harvest. The Farmers’ Freedom the last session of families to accomAct, sponsored by Oklahoma Congressman Congress. plish their day-to-day James Lankford, allows farmers to haul commodities across state boundaries without violating weight limits.

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work and transport their products to market.”

“This public announcement and the guidance sent to states by the FMCSA is great news for America’s farm and ranch families,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman. “The key word is common sense, and it was refreshing to see that our federal authorities heard the concerns we expressed. It lifts a big cloud of uncertainty in farm country and the action is greatly appreciated.”

Stallman said he was pleased by Secretary LaHood’s clarity in stating the department “had no intention of instituting onerous regulations on the hardworking farmers who feed our country and fuel our economy.”

“Operating and moving the machinery necessary to tend and harvest crops and care for livestock is a vital part of farming and ranching,” Stallman said. “Long established protocols are in place at the state and local levels to ensure that safety is paramount, and that farmers are able to do their jobs and transport their goods to market.”

On a state level, Oklahoma Farm Bureau also voiced their approval of Secretary LaHood’s decision. OFB sent a letter to the federal official’s office expressing its gratitude for not enforcing any new regulations.

“We are proud our secretary of transportation and the FMCSA has made it a priority to ensure America’s farmers and ranchers can continue to produce food and fiber for the world in a safe, yet practical manner,” said OFB President Mike Spradling.

Farm Bureau applauds governor’s drought relief effort

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klahoma Farm Bureau supports Gov. Mary Fallin’s executive order she announced in July that allows truck drivers to haul larger loads of hay.

“This will make it possible for livestock producers to get hay to hungry livestock quicker,” said Mike Spradling, president of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau.

The drought has destroyed local hay fields, forcing producers to seek hay supplies from areas less affected by the drought.

Current rules require hay loads not to exceed 11 feet in width. The executive order increases

the limit to 12 feet. A standard large round hay bale is six feet wide. The rule effectively doubles the number of bales a truck can carry without an additional permit.

“We applaud the governor for recognizing this need and for showing compassion during a stressful time for livestock producers,” Spradling said.

A trucker hauling round bales of hay drives west on Interstate 40 near Oklahoma City. Due to the drought, ranchers are low on hay supplies and are having hay shipped in from other states. Gov. Mary Fallin’s executive order lifts certain restrictions on hay hauling.

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OFB hosts Production Advantage workshop

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he Oklahoma Farm Bureau Field Services division hosted a workshop, July 28-29, in Oklahoma City to help farmers and ranchers incorporate computer programs and other technology into their operations.

Known as Production Advantage, OFB’s firstever technology seminar was a two-day event featuring sessions on the OFB website, web soil survey information, Green Seeker/N-Rich nitrogen detection, EZ Ranch software and marketing training. Workshop attendees also had the opportunity to participate in the Feeder Packer insight simulation game administered by Oklahoma State University extension livestock specialist Dr. Derrell Peel. The game allowed participants to trade cattle as buyers and sellers to portray a real cattle market.

Young ranch manager Amber Fuhrmann of Comanche Co. Farm Bureau said she wanted to learn about new technology that she could take home and apply to her operation.

“My favorite part was the Green Seeker – seeing the different nitrogen levels just by testing the different colors and seeing how you could use that on your place,” she said.

“For people who aren’t very technology-savvy, I thought the conference was really beneficial in helping them learn more.”

Workshop coordinator and OFB field representative Burton Harmon said he was pleased with how the event went in its first year.

This was not your typical seminar,” he said. “I think the information presented was phenomenal, and I felt like everybody that attended received some new or fresh ideas.”

Top: Production Advantage workshop attendee Amber Fuhrmann of Comanche Co. Farm Bureau uses a Green Seeker device to detect the nitrogen levels of grass outside the Oklahoma Farm Bureau offices in Oklahoma City.

Center: Alfalfa Co. Farm Bureau Ryan Pjesky (left) and Nowata Co. Farm Bureau member Tony Morris (right) act as feedlot owners during the Feeder Packer insight simulation game created by Oklahoma State University.

The team traded cattle with other workshop participants who represented cattle buyers.

Right: First Secretary of Agriculture of Ireland Dr. John Dardis (left) tours the Oklahoma City Stockyards on June 22, with Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb (center) and State Secretary of Agriculture Jim Reese (right).

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Irish Secretary of Agriculture visits Oklahoma

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irst Secretary of Agriculture and Food from the Irish embassy in Washington D.C., Dr. John Dardis visited Oklahoma for the first time on June 22, to learn about Oklahoma agriculture.

Hosted by Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb, Dardis met with several state agriculture officials who discussed Oklahoma’s cattle and dairy industries, farming practices, and research. The Irish agriculture secretary also toured several agricultural facilities in the state including Braum’s Dairy and the Oklahoma City Stockyards.

Lt. Gov. Lamb said the mission of the Irish official’s visit was for Oklahoma to develop a relationship with Ireland that explores economic development and research opportunities in agriculture.

“Like Oklahoma, Ireland has deep roots in agriculture and rural development,” Lamb said.

“Building a relationship with Dr. Dardis and Ireland will showcase our heritage and what Oklahoma has to offer the agriculture industry worldwide.”

The Irish secretary is a fifth-generation farmer who grew up on a cattle operation. He now raises wheat and has an educational background in plant breeding. In addition to Oklahoma’s livestock and grain industries, Dardis said he also has an interest in agricultural research.

“One of the mandates I have here is to strengthen our relationship with universities and you can’t do better than Oklahoma State University and production agriculture,” he said.

With three years of his term remaining, Dardis said he anticipates a long-lasting relationship with Oklahoma focused on improving trade, food security and other agricultural issues.

FB Women attend annual conference in Bartlesville

Far left: Tulsa’s long-time KOTV television morning anchor LeAnn Taylor speaks on her experience surviving breast cancer during the Oklahoma Farm Bureau Women’s luncheon, July 8.

Attendees look over items available in the conference’s annual silent auction. Proceeds from the silent auction were given to the White-Reinhardt for Education fund.

Pictured from left are Tonya Porter, Norita Morgan and Debbie Black of Seminole Co. Farm Bureau, Brenda Nobles of Le Flore Co. Farm Bureau and OFB Women’s Committee chairman Kitty Beavers.

A

total of 115 members of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau Women’s Committee gathered in historic downtown Bartlesville, July 8-9, to attend the annual OFB Women’s Summer Conference.

Events kicked off Friday, July 8, with registration, a silent auction and photo competition. New to the conference this year, the photo contest attracted 77 entries from women’s committee members. Cash prizes were awarded to winners in several different categories, and winners include first place, Marilynn Spence of Craig Co.; second place, Linda Krejsek of Grant Co.; third place, Whanee Tanner of Rogers Co.; and best of show, Helen Harvey of Okmulgee Co. The guest speaker of the day featured Tulsa’s own LeAnne Taylor of KOTV Channel 6. Taylor, a long-time news anchor and reporter, is a breast cancer survivor who spoke to the group about her career, her struggle with cancer and her passion for preventing the disease.

After lunch, conference attendees participated in breakout sessions, which covered topics including wildfire prevention with the OFB Safety Services division, animal and agriculture advocacy with OFB Vice President of Public Policy Tyler Norvell and antiques/ collectibles with Meg Greenwood.

The evening’s program and dinner began with a welcome from District 9 Director Phyllis Holcomb and OFB President Mike Spradling.

Entertainment for the evening featured country music from a Lenapah, Okla. family.

The conference was a first for Nowata Co. member Kathy Morris, and she said she was impressed with what it had to offer.

“I heard a lot of information that I think we

can take back to our counties,” she said. “I enjoyed it, and it was a lot of fun.”

Saturday morning brought a second round of small sessions for the women followed by a presentation of a trip to New Zealand by Damona Doye, and a history lesson on the Phillips 66 Museum. Women’s committee members then wrapped up the conference with a tour of the museum located in historic downtown Bartlesville.

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NEWS FROM OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY’S ROBERT M. KERR FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS CENTER

Ziegelmeier’s Toasted Pecan Butter: The right combination of sweet and salty

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n the midst of searching for the right combination of sweet and salty, an Oklahoma food company was born.

Husband and wife Kelly and Gaytha Ziegelmeier, owners of Ziegelmeier & Co. of Ada, Okla., found that right combination with their Ziegelmeier’s Toasted Pecan Butter.

“Our family loves peanut butter, but we were looking for something different,” Gaytha said. “We like to create new recipes and experiment with new ideas.”

During the experimental phase, Kelly suggested they try pecans in the formulation.

“We made several batches that were surprisingly tasty, but just not quite perfect enough,” Kelly said. “We kept adding and subtracting ingredients to get the right balance of salty and sweet. Eventually, our friends tastetested the toasted pecan butter and loved it so much they suggested we bottle it and sell it.”

To learn more about selling their newly formed pecan butter, the Ziegelmeiers contacted Oklahoma State University’s Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products Center for help. In June 2010, they attended FAPC’s Basic Training workshop for food business entrepreneurs.

“The FAPC has been a life-line to us,” Gaytha said. “We are ahead of the game compared to other people who have not used the center. We

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consider the FAPC to be our liaison.”

The FAPC has helped the Ziegelmeiers with product scale-up and formulation, shelf-life

Top: Gaytha Ziegelmeier (left) and her husband Kelly (right) mix up a batch of their toasted pecan butter.

The two attended FAPC’s Basic Training workshop to learn more about branding, marketing and production of their specialty product.

Ziegelmeier’s Toasted Pecan Butter is a gluten-free all natural product with no preservatives or added oils. It is available in retail stores across Oklahoma and also in Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Texas, North Dakota, Wyoming and Canada.

studies, production costs, equipment issues, and marketing and promotion.

The Ziegelmeiers have worked closely with Erin Johnson, FAPC business/ marketing client coordinator, who also serves as the project leader for the FAPC client.

“The Ziegelmeiers have a unique and tasty product that is very versatile and can be used on and in many different foods,” Johnson said. “This product is a new edition that can be incorporated to the busy schedules of many families and gives an option for another nut butter for people who cannot eat peanut butter.”

The FAPC also helped the Ziegelmeiers participate and feature their product in the Oklahoma Gourmet booth at The Gourmet Market in Dallas.

“The opportunity to participate in the Dallas Gourmet Market and to get our foot in the door outside of Oklahoma has been amazing,” Gaytha said.

Oklahoma Gourmet is a recently established group representing the FAPC and Made in Oklahoma program, said project leader and FAPC business and marketing specialist Andrea Graves.

“Oklahoma Gourmet is a stepping stone for Oklahoma food entrepreneurs to take that leap into becoming more than just a small business,” Graves said. “This opportunity to display

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products helps FAPC clients receive exposure from small boutiques to large retailers such as Bass Pro Shops, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus.”

Ziegelmeier’s Toasted Pecan Butter is considered a gourmet product, but because it is a gluten-free, all-natural product with no preservatives and no added oils, it also can be found in health food stores.

“Because of the healthy attributes of our pecan butter, we targeted our product to the health food stores,” Gaytha said. “That’s been our best step.”

The toasted pecan butter is referred to as “the perfect union between healthy and gourmet,” which also serves as the company’s tagline.

“Ziegelmeier’s Toasted Pecan Butter is very versatile,” Kelly said. “ You can use it as a fondue, dip, drizzle, or spread on apples, bananas, celery, pretzels, bagels, oatmeal, ice cream, brownies, salmon, fruit salads. Or, use it just like peanut butter.”

Ziegelmeier’s Toasted Pecan Butter is available in creamy and crunchy, but the company has plans to expand its product line.

“We’ve thought about making pecan syrup, salad dressing and adding chocolate into the pecan butter,” Gaytha said. “We’ve been so busy making creamy and crunchy toasted pecan butter that we haven’t had time yet to develop new products. I guess that’s a good problem to have.”

The pecan butter is available at retail stores across Oklahoma and also in Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Texas, North Dakota, Wyoming and Canada. For a listing of retailers or to order online, visit www.ziegelmeiers.com or www.toastedpecanbutter.com.

Oklahoma State University is a modern land-grant system of interdisciplinary programs that prepares students for success. As Oklahoma’s only university with a statewide presence, OSU improves the lives of people in Oklahoma, the nation, and the world through integrated, high-quality teaching, research, and outreach. OSU has more than 35,000 students across its five-campus system and more than 23,000 on its Stillwater campus, with students from all 50 states and 118 nations. Established in 1890, OSU has graduated more than 235,000 students to serve the state of Oklahoma, the nation and the world.

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Legislation Introduced to Prevent EPA Regs on Farm Dust

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ew legislation introduced by Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.) that would prevent the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating naturally occurring farm dust is

welcome news for the nation’s farmers and ranchers, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.

“Regulation of farm dust by EPA could

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severely hamper the ability of farmers and ranchers to meet the world’s food needs,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman.

The EPA is reviewing existing regulations for particulate matter, which includes soot and dust. Soot is generated by car emissions and factories; dust occurs naturally.

According to Stallman, planting and harvesting crops, livestock moving from place to place and people driving down dirt roads are just a few of the ways dust occurs naturally on farms and in rural areas.

“The current rules pertaining to dust are adequate,” said Stallman. “Increased regulation of farm dust could result in decreased productivity and higher food prices, coupled with lost jobs in the rural economy. Moreover, the scientific basis for establishing such regulation has been called into question and it has not been demonstrated that the benefits of EPA regulation would outweigh the costs.”

The new legislation introduced by Johanns prevents the EPA from making dust regulations even more stringent, while taking health concerns into consideration.

“State and local governments would have the authority to regulate dust in localized areas if necessary,” Stallman explained. “But a national standard would not be imposed.”

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Global Demand Drives Food Prices Higher in Third Quarter

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trong global demand, especially for pork and other protein-rich foods, was a primary driver behind higher retail prices at the supermarket during the third quarter of 2011, according to the latest American Farm Bureau Federation Marketbasket Survey.

The informal survey shows the total cost of 16 food items that can be used to prepare one or more meals was $53.12, up $1.95 or about 4 percent compared to the second quarter of 2011. Of the 16 items surveyed, 13 increased, two decreased and one remained the same in average price compared to the prior quarter.

“Global demand for meat and dairy products remains strong and continues to influence retail prices here in the U.S.,” said AFBF Economist John Anderson. “Many nations around the world rely on America to provide the food they need to improve their standard of living, particularly through the addition of protein to the diet.

Strengthened demand for meats began in 2009, continued through 2010 and remains important as we look ahead to the close of 2011.”

Other factors also came into play.

“On-farm production costs for energy, fertilizer and fuel continue on an upward trend but those costs are largely borne by farmers and ranchers. But, in addition, after food leaves the farm or ranch, higher costs for transportation, marketing, processing and storage are added,” Anderson explained. “As long as these costs remain elevated, consumers will continue to feel it in the form of higher food prices at the supermarket.”

Survey results showed meat and dairy products accounted for about 40 percent of the quarter-to-quarter retail price increase.

Other items that increased in price compared to the second quarter were Russet potatoes, up 36 cents to $3.43 for a 5-pound bag and Red Delicious apples, up 27 cents to $1.83 per pound.

“At the beginning of 2011, a number of factors including growing demand pointed to

continued increases in retail food prices, especially for meats. But there’s always a lag time as farmers and ranchers increase the size of their herds to meet higher demand,” Anderson explained. “Extreme weather conditions around the nation have further compounded the issue, diminishing production and further increasing costs.”

The year-to-year direction of the Marketbasket Survey tracks with the federal government’s Consumer Price Index. As retail grocery prices have increased gradually over time, the share of the average food dollar that America’s farm and ranch families receive has dropped.

“In the mid-1970s, farmers received about one-third of consumer retail food expenditures for food eaten at home and away from home, on average. Since then, that figure has decreased steadily and is now about 16 percent, according to the Agriculture Department’s revised Food Dollar Series,” Anderson said.

AFBF, the nation’s largest general farm organization, has been conducting the informal quarterly marketbasket survey of retail food price trends since 1989. The mix of foods in the marketbasket was updated during the first quarter of 2008.

According to the USDA, Americans spend just under 10 percent of their disposable annual income on food, the lowest average of any country in the world. A total of 85 shoppers in 32 states participated in the latest survey, conducted in August.

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For sale: 2001 Chevy Corvette, 2100 actual miles, never seen rain, serious buyers only, color speedway white, $27,000.

2002 Ford Thunderbird Convertible, garage kept, new tires and brakes, approx 54,500 miles, midnight black, $15,850, call 405-689-0525.

1995 Freightliner Semi Truck N-14 red top Cummins, flat top, 9 spd, new ft drive tires, 1,045,000 mi, $8,000, 405368-0680 or 405-368-7794 ’05 Honda CRF 230, $1,400, ’06 Honda CRF 150, $1,400, both excellent condition, 580-759-3081.

2004 Silverado, power everything, tow pkg, air bags, 4x4, motor has 100K on it, truck has 202K, $6,400, 580209-2497.

1966 2 ton Chevrolet winch truck, gin poles, 2 new spare tires, 93,000 miles, tagged and titled, $2,250, drive it home.

For sale – Tomos motor bike, 155 actual miles, paid $1400, will sell for $800, 150 miles per gallon, 479-414-3813.

1956 Ford, 2 door, HT needs restored, not running, $4,600, 1955 Ford Crown Vic, as is, $4,500, not running, His Rust Body, 405-672-0048.

1981 International Cargostar Semi, COE, Daycab, Int 466 engine, Allison trans, 86K original miles, solid truck, runs and drives great, located at May OK, $2800 OBO, 580-369-8392.

1970 Buick Electra 225, Custom 4 Door Hardtop, 455 V8, gold body, white vinyl top, beige interior, 108,000 mi, automatic, full power, air, runs good, original owner, nonsmoker, garage kept, $4,500, 918-627-0805.

2001 Peterbilt, 379 model, new tires & rebuilt, 18 speed transmission, 550 hp, cat motor, very clean truck, 405258-6569.

1980 Honda Goldwing with side car, runs very good, needs brake work, $1,500, 352-302-5131, leave message.

FARM MACHINERY/EQUIPMENT Diesel S-630 Mitsubishi tractor with blade, brush hog and manual, 25 hp, $1,995, call 580-471-2121.

New Holland 660 round baler twine, good condition, $6,000, 405-919-6593.

Cat D6C with root rake, farmer owned, real good, 405783-4284.

2003 Model Heston 956 auto-cycle hay baler, like new, baled only 1,500 round bales, $12,500, call 580-3635616 or cell 580-262-0639.

A-John D, propane, looks good, runs, $850, 200-IH, NF, good tires, 2 pt, new paint, $2,000, M-IH, WF, looks & runs good, $1,600, Gubs, 3, 1 new overhaul, SC, 2 pt, runs good, $800, 918-352-2966.

4 bottom mm plow a drag, good condition, been shedded, 580-849-2161.

Lincoln welder/generator 250, electra start GXT Ranger, 175 hrs, excellent condition, 3,150, tankless hot water heater, 220v, $350, Bois d’arc post, 6 ½’ long, 3-5” diameter, straight, 3.25, 405-213-6448.

s /KLAHOMA #OUNTRY s &ALL

Antique farm equip, lots of iron wheels, call for prices and pictures, rakes, side mowers, sod cutter, etc., Beaver, OK, 806-290-1684.

1 – 24.5x32 combine tire & 300 6 cyl Ford engine, 580821-2428.

2000 – 7341, Zetor tractor, 78 hp, 4x4, cab and air, front end loader with quick change bucket and hay spike, approx 2500 hrs, 405-238-6958.

Skid loader with turbo saw, $70 per hr, thin young pecan trees, fence rows, cedar trees, southern Oklahoma, 580465-0180.

1993 D-31-P Dozier, 3400 hours, good condition, make good ranch dozier, 75 hp, 19,000 lbs, $20,000, 918-448-1033.

Kubota 3130 HST tractor for sale, 4x4, front end loader, trailer, brush hog, box blade, & finish mower, 350 hours, $19,000, call 580-465-8015.

2002 John Deere 6320, open ROPS, 2-wheel drive, low hours, 563 loader, power quad, shedded, $39,000, 405850-1005.

International 560 tractor, $1,000, Stihl 041 chain saw, $100, commercial adler sewing machine, walking foot w/ reverse, 405-278-1544.

1984 Yamaha Venture Royal, loaded, excellent condition, tag/title, $2,200, 853 New Holland baler, excellent condition, $3,500, Roff, OK, 580-456-7616.

2006 Kubota M6800 4x4 tractor w/ 280 hrs, shuttle shift, frontend loader, bale spear, like new, $24,000, 2003 Dodge ½ ton, short bed, Hemi, leather interior, elec windows/locks, loaded, $9,500, 405-612-0376.

LIVESTOCK Reg Limousin Bulls & Hfrs, polled calving, Homo Limflex – Angus Bulls, top genetics, Wildhorse Valley, 405-4742018 or 405-517-3824.

APHA Reg 3 yr old palomino gelding, grandson of My Talent and Judys Lineage, greenbroke, 1500, five nice APHA reg fillies, 4 yrs and up, 918-273-3659.

4 Broodmares & colts, 9 yr old grey stud, halter & pasture broke, mr san peppy bred, powder river roping & bucking chutes, good condition, Guymon, OK, 580545-3539.

Young blk cows, calving now thru spring, $1,000, young prs, $1,300, 580-549-6222.

Beefmaster bulls, females, developed on forage, bred for the essentials, foundation genetics, practical cattle w/ performance, Simon Creek Beefmaster, 580-668-2523.

Springborn steer & heifer prospects, from our top donors and winning AI genetics such as Heat Wave, Monopoly, Sooner, Uno Mas, etc, Brower Land & Cattle, Anadarko, OK, 405-831-1632.

2 Broodmares, bred to a son of Matt’s King, $2,300 each or pair for $4,000, young matts king bred horses, prices range from $1,500 - $3,000, 918-689-9002.

Guineas for sale, 580-795-5195.

FFA, 4-H, & ABGA show goats, these are a set of amazing kids, don’t miss out, 405-641-9740.

Angus bulls, 8 to 14 mo old, 1 – 2 ½ year old Angus Bull (Breeding Vermellion Dateline) Angus business 52 years, same location, 580-456-7241.

25 hd, 3 & 4 year old blk cow, bred to calve in Feb 2012 to Angus Bulls, 20 hd blk pairs, 350 lb calves on side, exposed back to bulls, 580-927-5648.

Linebred Harlan Colts for sale by Double Tough Harlan, see at www.okharlanhorses.com, 918-762-3769, kbarger@cowboy.net.

Peruvian Horses, nontrotting breed, smoothest ride in the world, beautiful, elegant for parade, show, trail or work, stallions, mares, geldings, $2,000 & up, leave message, 405-799-7070.

Servicable Age Angus and Black Maine Bulls, cleaned

seed wheat, Jagger, 2137 Duster, 2174, Overley JD, 21ft Drapper Header, kept in barn, used sweeps and disks, 405-381-4307.

Herd reduction due to drought, AQHA & APHA mares, stallions, foals, package deals, excellent bloodlines and lots of color, payments considered, see all at website: www.bedonna.com, 580-471-4040.

Brangus bulls and replacement heifers, excellent genetics and gentle, delivery available, Horsehead Ranch, 918-695-2357.

Arabian/Half Arabian horses for sale, yearling, 2 year olds, starting at $500, contact Ron, 918-284-7506.

Registered paints: black/white, various ages, excellent bloodlines, low prices, great for Christmas, 405-2628499.

1 paint gelding, blue eyes, eight year old, rope off of, rides well, $800 obo, 580-994-2322.

Cattle and some hay for sale, 80 Int 2 ton truck & 92 Dodge, ¾ ton 4x4 pickup, 405-258-6559.

Buckskin yearling colt, gentle, $1,800; Pygmy/Nygerian baby goats, $50 each; AQHA buckskin stallion, broke, $1,000 obo; Anatolian Shepherd puppies, $250 each, call 580-369-1511 or 405-207-7316.

MISCELLANEOUS

ATTN: OFB Travelers callme4europe.info Von Bears Travel Ph. 918-583-4141 or 888-416-4141 Ask for Linda (OFB member) Earn $60,000/yr Part-Time in the livestock or equipment appraisal business. Agricultural background required.

Classroom or home study courses available. 800-4887570. www.amagappraisers.com Used Portable Sawmills! Buy/Sell. Call Sawmill Exchange 800-459-2148, http://www.sawmillexchange.

Heavy Duty six unit dog trailer, fiberglass, factory made, top game race, storage boxes front/rear, $2,600, 405842-9649.

Have 14 different years – Johnie Lee Wills rodeo program, souvenir program starting 1968-1984 for sale, 918-267-4449.

Wondering where that relative or friend is? I locate people for you, $125, simple search, Mary Carter Investigations, 580-471-8585.

Antique 55 year old Gretsch Electric Guitar, has model number and serial number inside Spanish S sound holes, sunburst finish, very nice collector’s item, $3,000, 580-332-2468.

Abeka & Alpha Omega Homeschool books; Grainger gas wall heater, only used 5 times, $500; top hand roping chute, $850; 5 ft brush hog, $350; 15 ½ in saddle

by Henry Dawes, $400, 405-258-1297.

1974 VIP Ski boat, 16’ tri-hull, walk-thru w. shield, vinyl shade canopy, 70 hp Evinrude outboard w. tilt, 1 owner – very clean, hull like new, $2,500 o.b.o., 405-348-4469 hm, 405-317-8175 cell, Edmond, OK. Men-pen female, registered, black-tan; for sale, like new wheelchair, 918-686-3023.

Ramsey Termite and Pest Control, 405-598-2083 or 405-570-1562.

3’ x 5’ US and Oklahoma poly outdoor flags, $8 each, post paid, 405-221-7107.

Dog pen – 8’ x 12’, 4’ tall, made of heavy material, comes in 4 sections, can be hauled in back of PU, $160, call 918-869-8418.

Grain bin socks, in stock and custom made, Cowboys Tack Shop, 580-256-9885, Woodward, OK. We repair all types of small engines & lawn/garden equipment, repair & restoration services for tractors made before 1960, call 405-386-5244.

Old eye glasses, 135 yrs old, gold nose piece and gold chain, very good cond, make offer, 580-981-2133 or 580-212-2133.

Swivelwheel trailer for RV or PU, 8’ W x 5’ L, 1,000 capacity, can carry full size motorcycle, can be seen on craigslist.org, 405-348-2881.

Jacobs wind generators, model 25s and 60s E/C, $4,850, 40 volts, 70 amps, 405-760-4446 or 405-567-3750.

Large lighted four door china cabinet and dining table with six chairs for sale, medium fruitwood, $500, 405822-8310.

Two pieces Sarah Coventry jewelry, pin-blue stone, sm pearls encircles stones, gold tassel at bottom & pendant – blue, Stigler, 918-967-3737 after 5.

422 3/4� sucker rods, $9.00 each; moormans cattle protein tubs, $70 - $82, 405-627-3920.

Dover Market & CafĂŠ on Chisholm Trail (Hwy 81) in downtown Dover, open for Breakfast and Lunch Monday thru Friday 6-2, Saturday 7-3, relaxed country atmosphere, Home-style cooking.

Stanley Home Products, fuller brush, full home line of cleaning and personal products, brooms, brushes, degreasers, lotions, mops, 580-497-2249.

Call, email, text me! Be an independent Simply Said consultant, set own hrs, part-time, full-time, Ella Murray, 580-649-8532; ellmurray@sbcglobal.net; www. mysimplysaiddesigns.com/410, home ph 580-5354875.

Mary Kay cosmetics, FREE shipping, products ready to mail, three ways to order, call 580-916-5352, email mkpinkok@yahoo.com, online www.marykay.com/ asmith12.

Used 4-wheelers for sale or trade, 405-240-2177.

MOBILE HOMES, RVS 1961 Airstream Trailer, 26 ft, air, heat, stove, icebox, shower, bathtub, toilet and everything works, sharp, $9,495, Spiro, 918-962-2064.

PETS For sale: flight conditioned Bob White Quail, leave message @ 405-527-0730.

Parrot Rescue – we accept parrots needing a good home, 918-453-0107.

Rabbits – pets, fryers, breeding stock, several varieties, 580-920-0283.

AKC Mastiffs, accepting deposits for puppies, champion bloodlines, large family guard dogs, 918-618-4044, true mastiffs.

Call me if you need a cat, barn cat or pet, already spayed and neutered, must have safe environment for shelter, call 405-379-6468.

Small parrots (conures and linnies) for sale or trade, 918-242-3408.

Dachshund puppies, registered, Sperry, OK, near Tulsa, call 405-818-5462.

REAL ESTATE 10 acres on Hazel Dell Rd, north of Shawnee mall, fenced with pond, 660’ of highway frontage, $50,000, 405-990-2253.

For sale: 80 acres, Bryan Co., Silo area, paved rd, fenced, trees, creek, 2 ponds, 580-924-0979.

One lot for sale in Tulsa at Memorial Park Cemetery, half price is $900, regularly $1,825, 918-592-1614.

3BR, 2 Bath, brick home on 1 acre, 5 miles west of Eufaula, remodel in 2006, new roof in 2008, $66,000, 918-689-0021 or 918-617-1378.

Acreage east of McAlester, lots of hwy 270 frontage, 75 ac w/ 2 homes, will divide, fenced and cross fenced, ponds, barn, 918-423-7118.

Updated home in the country on a paved county road, 3 br, 1 bath, 1 acre, fenced, large shop bldg, 2 car carport, 10 miles from I-40, Seminole & Newalla, 30 miles from Shawnee and 15 miles from Holdenville, 405-257-9834.

10 acre meadow with 4/2/2 home, 2200 sq ft, all upgrades, whirlpool tub, crown molding, tile and carpet, 2 CH & A units, $210,000, negotiable, 580-276-5755.

Romantic Victorian home with views, pond, 40 acres, pasture/woods, in-ground pool, large generator, call Crystal, 405-464-2558 at Century 21.

Commercial property on Hwy 58 & CR 1140 (Sickles Rd) formerly Myers Station, DEA approved, septic & water well systems, good for oilfield office, convenience store or restaurant, four acres, 4599 sq ft building, 405-542-7064.

9-hole golf course on 81.4 acres, Warner, OK, $195,000, equip available, 918-463-5333 or 918-645-2770.

Land available for cell towers sites in Stephens county, have commercial land for lease along hwy 81 & Plato rd

in Duncan, lot for sale or lease, 5th street & Walnut, 580255-5335, leave message.

Commercial acre by Chandler Wal-Mart on 66, 2 br houses, owner will carry mtg, buyer pays all closing costs, $87,500-$5,000 down, Cochran, 405-240-6021, 405-258-2371, leave message.

40 acres for sale in Okmulgee county, good pasture land, barn, and pond, all fenced, ½ mile north & Ÿ mile east of Wilson school, call 918-931-7545.

Big or small, land & rural homes, new, www. shanklinrealty.com, click on featured properties, Sherm Shanklin, 918-521-4696, Sherman@shanklinrealty.com, RE/MAX of Green Country.

Tahlequah 4 x 3 home, 3200 sq ft on 5 acres, 4 stall barns, 2 master suites, fenced corral & pasture, built 1995, FP, 6 mi n of town, lg carport, quiet area, $229,000, 918-207-2461 or reply tbarbo1@hotmail. com for pics.

Beautiful 60 ac, 5 mi s of Sapulpa, 20 min from Tulsa w/ pond, creek, some trees, 85% pasture, deer, great fences, good home site, 918-321-3515 or 918-321-5889.

Two city lots in Tamaha, Haskell county, $10,000, great fishing nearby on Kerr Lake, convenience store nearby, approximately 16 miles NE of Stigler, 918-753-2630 or 918-647-6327.

Prime hunting land, 90 acres, newly dug large pond, septic for campers, west Carter county, $1,500/acre, 580-490-6872.

2 bedroom, 1 bath, older home in Sapulpa, OK, close to shopping, work, schools & interstate, $30,000, call 918352-3901.

130 acres of prime hunting located in SW Oklahoma, deer, turkey, quail, $143,000, call Century 21 Altus Prestige Realty, 580-482-0621.

For sale – 410 acres, very good grassland, highly improved, next to I-40 highway, 918-689-3166.

WANTED I BUY BLACKSMITHING TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT. MIKE GEORGE, 1227 4TH ST., ALVA, OK 73717, 580327-5235.

WANTED OLDER VEHICLES, CARS, PICKUPS, VANS, WAGONS, 1900s THRU 1960s, GAS PUMPS, TAGS. 580-658-3739.

ATTN! We pay cash for mineral rights, Royalty Interests and Overriding Royalty Interests. Call Mark. 817-9466983.

Country

Classifieds . 3TILES s /KLAHOMA #ITY /+ All information below must be completed.

Each Farm Bureau member family is limited to ONE free classified ad per issue.

This form must be used. No call-in ads will be accepted. The length of the ad can not exceed the number of lines on this form. Ads run only one time.

Please type or print legibly.

Name OFB Membership Number Address City

State

Phone Area Code

Zip Deadline for the next issue is December 12, 2011. /KLAHOMA #OUNTRY s &ALL s

Country Wanted: Savage or Stevens 22 Rifle, auto, pump, 918723-4603, Westville.

Collector paying cash for antique fishing lures & tackle, also coke machines and signs, Troy, 800-287-3057.

Wanted, Stevens 410 single shot, model 940E, 405-7602481.

Want to purchase oil gas mineral rights, producing or nonproducing, 580-223-0353 or 800-687-5882.

Wanted, old items from Ada, Roff, Stonewall, Allen, Tupelo, Francis, Sasakwa, Konawa, Tyrola and Stratford – bottles, tokens, post cards, pictures and store give aways, 580-332-8220.

Grower Direct

Grow half-dollar size

Muscadines

and Blackberries.

We also offer over 200 varieties of Fruit and Nut Trees plus Vine and Berry Plants.

Ison’s Nursery

Since 1934

Free Catalog

PO Box 190 Brooks, GA 30205 1-800-733-0324 s isons.com

ATTENTION:

DENTURE SUFFERERS If You or Someone You Know Wears Dentures. . .

Then don’t even think about going another day as a misinformed victim who wears uncomfortbable denturesthat that uncomfortable dentures If you want to eat your favorite foods again, and never fear or worry when in public ever again, then you must be aware of the FREE REPORT that reveals “How To Stop Being A Victim To Wearing Those Uncomfortable And Irritating Dentures!

To get this insider information, you must call Toll Free, 24 hour, FREE RECORDED MESSAGE at:

1-866-802-4516

Kitchen

PORTERHOUSE FOR TWO WITH LEMON POTATOES & ASPARAGUS SERVES 2 Ingredients: (20-24-ounce) Certified Angus Beef ® porterhouse steak 1 lemon, washed 12 ounces fingerling potatoes, cut in-half lengthwise 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary 12 spears petite asparagus (or 6 normal size) 1 tablespoon minced flat-leaf Italian parsley Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions: Zest half of lemon and set lemon and zest aside. Preheat oven to 450°F; In a bowl, toss together fingerlings, olive oil, rosemary, salt and pepper. Place in ovenproof casserole dish and roast until browned and softened (25-30 minutes), stirring once or twice during roasting; While potatoes are roasting, season steak with salt and pepper. Sear steak on a grill pan over high heat, 2 minutes per side. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Add asparagus to pan and place in oven until asparagus softens and steak is at the desired doneness, approximately 5 minutes for medium rare. Remove steak from pan and allow to rest on cutting board, tented with foil; Slice lemon in half; juice one half over roasted potatoes. Add asparagus, lemon zest and parsley; stir to combine and divide among two plates. Cut meat from the “t-bone” of the porterhouse. Slice if desired and serve tenderloin or strip steak cuts according to preference.

Nutritional Information: Calories: 735, Fat: 34 g, Saturated Fat: 12 g, Cholesterol: 207 mg, Carbohydrate: 29 g, Dietary Fiber: 4 g, Protein: 76 g, Sodium: 315 mg, Iron: 54% of Daily Value

AUTUMN APPLE CHOPS SERVES 4 Ingredients: 4 pork loin chops, 3/4-inch thick 1 tablespoon flour 2 teaspoons butter 1/2 onion, sliced 1 cup apple juice Instructions: Season flour with a little salt and pepper; lightly flour pork chops and brown on one side in butter in non-stick skillet over medium heat. 9601774 Turn chops; stir in onion and apple juice; bring to a boil, lower heat, cover and simmer for 7-8 minutes until internal temperature on a thermometer reads 145 degrees Fahrenheit, followed by a 3-minute rest time.

Serving suggestion: Serve up the flavors of autumn with these braised chops. Serve winter squash puree and buttered green beans..

Nutritional Information: Calories: 194 calories, Protein: 25 grams, Fat: 7 grams, Sodium: 55 milligrams, Cholesterol: 70 milligrams, Saturated Fat: 2 grams, Carbohydrates: 10 grams

Please call right now while this is fresh on your mind! s /KLAHOMA #OUNTRY s &ALL

/KLAHOMA #OUNTRY s 3UMMER s

Feeding and clothing the world ...

one farmer at a time.

Richard Alig’s family has a proud tradition of producing food on their farm near Okarche for more than 100 years. That’s more than a century of caring for the land. While we haven’t been around quite as long, Oklahoma Farm Bureau has been representing farmers like Richard for 70 years. Together with our farm and ranch members, we are ensuring a future for everyone who relies upon the food, fuel and fiber Oklahoma farmers and ranchers produce.

ÂŽ Oklahoma

Farm Bureau

/ 4UJMFT t 0LMBIPNB $JUZ 0, t XXX PLGBSNCVSFBV PSH

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/KLAHOMA #OUNTRY s &ALL s

Conserve Energy With Alcoa Siding *CUT FUEL COSTS! *CUT HEATING COSTS! *CUT COOLING COSTS!

Alcoa Steel & Vinyl Siding

Yes! Energy savings over a short period will more than pay for the new siding investment in your home.

America’s At Home With Alcoa

Insulates against cold or heat.

Does not absorb or retain moisture like wood.

Goes up easily over wood asbestos, stucco or masonry walls.

Does not support combustion.

Protect your investment in your home! Improve its value!

Muffles outside noises, assures a quieter, more livable home.

Permanently protects & beautifies your home.

Resists damaging effects of acids, salt, water, sun, rain, oil, etc.

Stays beautiful wherever you live!

Retains beauty year in, year out.

Maintenance free -- the BEST buy in today’s home covering market!

Does not peel, flake, corrode or rust. Easy to clean-simply hose down.

Mars, scars, abrasions don’t show. High impact-resistant.

White & 12 decorator colors.

Never needs paint-durability built in not painted on.

Completely covers split, warped, faded or peeled outside walls.

Here are the names of just a few of your Farm Bureau neighbors who are enjoying the beauty & comfort of Alcoa Siding products. Feel free to check with them.

Benny Rogers P.O. Box 883 Perry, OK Bob Bolay Rt. 2, Box 119 Perry, OK Carl Windham 10404 N.W. 37th Yukon, OK Don Rainwater 5710 Willow Dr. Norman, OK Neil Roberts 1400 Charles Norman, OK O.B. Puckett 200 Elm Maysville, OK Eddie Huitt P.O. Box 101 Sterling, OK

Forest Masters 317 W. Sheridian Kingfisher, OK Beryle James 9512 W. Britton Yukon, OK Unique Coffeures 5900 N.W. 49th Oklahoma City, OK Linda Sitton P.O. Box 160 Binger, OK Delones Knupik 414 W. Birch Enid, OK Tim Cameron Rt. 1, Box 85 Orlando, OK Jack Steele 119 Thompson Kingfisher, OK

Steve Leck 116 S. Flynn Calumet, OK Jerry Benda 63125 Gregory Rd. El Reno, OK Clark Graham 213 N.W. 1st Moore, OK Carl McKinney P.O. Box 592 Eufaula, OK Greg Biggs 18600 N. Antler Way Deer Creek, OK Daniel Garrett 1909 S. Jensen El Reno, OK Mike Yousey 20502 S.E. 15th Harrah, OK

8 . 02(%("( + +..* 8 . 5 0/(-& (- 13,,$0

Al Castro 4601 Winners Circle Norman, OK Don Blain 308 E. Jarman Midwest City, OK Kenneth Azlin P.O. Box 921 Seminole, OK Gerald McDaniel 14714 Key Ridge Dr. Newalla, OK Mike Limke 201 Owen Mustang, OK Mike Lee Rt. 4, Box 193 Tuttle, OK Larry Yost 315 N. 3rd Watonga, OK

Starling Miller 912 Kansas Chickasha, OK Herschel Nichols Route 1 Prague, OK Jerry Haynes P.O. Box 208 Cashion, OK Charles Frank 1908 Brook Hollow Ct. Stillwater, OK Lynn Luker 720 W. Jackson Cresent, OK Jim Youngs 1201 Clearview Mustang, OK Tommie Richardson P.O. Box 381 Purcell, OK

Cade Boepple Rt. 1, Box 7 Covington, OK Randy Plant 18701 Garden Ridge Edmond, OK S & J Tire Co. Hwy. 81 El Reno, OK Ron Pinkenton 7521 N.W. 40th Oklahoma City, OK Leslie Bradford Rt. 3, Box 298 Watonga, OK Sharon Graham 2821 Bella Vista Midwest City, OK James Bryant 1755 N. Country Club Newcastle, OK

Check these features

8 .- 2 0.2 .0 /$$+ 8 .- 2 !1.0! .0 0$2 (- ,.(1230$

Keller Rest.

820 N. McAuther Oklahoma City, OK Larry Smith Rt. 2, Box 122 Kingfisher, OK Mickey Brown 1705 Country Club Newcastle, OK Barth Construction Lot 6 Wild Turkey Hollow Stillwater, OK Jeff Palmer 822 S. 6th Kingfisher, OK Starling Miller Rt. 3, Box 129A Perry, OK Mike Nemec Rt. 1, Box 90 Perry, OK

8 . $6/.1$# - (+1 8 .- 2 !0$ * 3/ (- ' (+

Willia Clay 1845 N.W. 23rd Newcastle, OK Don Jantz Rt. 3 Enid, OK Dawn Faust 9329 Lyric Lane Midwest City, OK Veres Zum Mullen Rt. 4 Okarche, OK Jim Nichols 4737 Crest Pl. Del City, OK Glenda Irick 2601 N.W. 118th Oklahoma City, OK Teressa Parham 128 Chickasaw Yukon, OK

Reese Wilmoth 5400 N.W. 66th Oklahoma City, OK Mark Kelley 3421 N.W. 67th Oklahoma City, OK Richard Boren Rt. 1, Box 151 Geary, OK Dawayne Smith 415 S.W. 16th Newcastle, OK Hanley Hintergardt 9100 Whitehall Ct. Oklahoma City, OK Dan Wedeman 3455 N. Red Rock Rd. Yukon, OK Mike Nichols Route 1 Prague, OK

8 .- 2 #$-2 +(*$ +3,(-3, 8 2 2(" $+$"20("(27 220 "2(.- %0$$

Farm Bureau members receive a 33 1/3% discount off nationally-published retail prices.

Now in effect for Oklahoma! Call 405-721-2807 or complete coupon below.

NO OBLIGATION!

Buy directly from the company owners - in the siding business since 1937! No middlemen involved. We can beat most any deal. Buy today before costs soar higher!

TERMS AVAILABLE Special discount for FB Members Only.

NOTICE

Siding materials sold on an applied basis only.

OK! I want more information, facts, figures, estimates and color pictures of completed jobs. No obligation. You be the judge! Send coupon immediately!

One of the OWNERS of the company will personally contact you! No high pressure. Just the facts for your consideration! Act NOW! You’ll be glad you did!

Name__________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________City________________________ Telephone ____________________ Best Time To Call:______A.M. ______P.M. If Rural, Give Directions____________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

M. RHODES COMPANY

6408 N. Libby Oklahoma City, OK 73112