FBN Nov 2019

NOVEMBER 2019

Farm Bureau News The Voice of Virginia’s Agricultural Producers

The Very Best of Virginia

Mother Nature provides drama for reality show

Farm Bureau News

Volume 78, Number 4 November 2019

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Features 14

Corn strong

The world’s corn yield record-holder happens to be a Virginia farmer who is part of a reality TV show called Corn Warriors.

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Gift livestock with an emergency kit

Emergencies happen, and farmers can better prepare for them if armed with a livestock emergency kit.

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Making a difference

“It’s pretty neat when people see farmers as mentors.”

— DAVID HULA, star of Corn Warriors

KATHY DIXON

Virginia Farm Bureau News (USPS 017763) (ISSN 1525-528X) is published four times a year. January, April, September, November. It is published by Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, 12580 West Creek Parkway, Richmond, VA 23238. Periodicals postage rate is paid at Richmond, VA and additional mailing offices. The annual Subscription Rate is $1.31 (included in membership dues).

Postmaster: Please send changes of address to, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, Farm Bureau News, P.O. Box 27552, Richmond, VA 23261-7552; fax 804-290-1096. Editorial and business offices are located at 12580 West Creek Parkway, Richmond, VA 23238. Telephone 804-290-1000, fax 804-290-1096.

Email virginiafarmbureaunews@vafb.com.

Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Members — Address change? If your address or phone number has changed, or is about to change, contact your county Farm Bureau. They will update your membership and subscription information.

All advertising is accepted subject to the publisher’s approval. Advertisers must assume liability for the content of their advertising. The publisher maintains the right to cancel advertising for nonpayment or reader complaints about services or products. The publisher assumes no liability for products or services advertised.

Member: Virginia Press Association

EDITORIAL TEAM Pam Wiley Director, Communications Kathy Dixon Managing Editor Patricia Hooten Graphic Designer Maria La Lima Graphic Designer Alice Kemp Staff Writer/Advertising Coordinator

Virginia Farm Bureau makes a difference in the communities it serves, in a variety of ways.

VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Officers Wayne F. Pryor, President Scott E. Sink, Vice President

Board of Directors

Departments 26 28

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For Your Benefit Heart of the Home Marketplace

DIRECTOR

WE’RE SOCIAL!

PUBLICATION SCHEDULE

Producer members will receive their next issue of Virginia Farm Bureau News in January 2020. The magazine is published quarterly, and back issues can be viewed at issuu.com/virginiafarmbureau.

ON THE COVER David Hula competes against four other corn growers from across the U.S. (Photo by Kathy Dixon).

DISTRICT COUNTY

Emily Edmondson 1 Tazewell Richard L. Sutherland 2 Grayson Bruce N. Stanger 3 Montgomery Gordon R. Metz 4 Henry Russell L. Williams II 5 Rockbridge Peter A. Truban 6 Shenandoah Thomas E. Graves 7 Orange Leigh H. Pemberton 8 Hanover William F. Osl Jr. 9 Cumberland Robert J. Mills Jr. 10 Pittsylvania J. M. Jenkins Jr. 11 Lunenburg W. Ellis Walton 12 Middlesex M. L. Everett Jr. 13 Southampton David L. Hickman 14 Accomack Faye Hundley * Essex S. Kyle Sturgis ** Northampton *Women’s Committee Chairman **Young Farmers Committee Chairman

Save the Date!

VFBF Annual Meeting offers variety of perspectives Members attending this year’s Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Annual Meeting Dec. 2-5 at the Hilton Norfolk The Main will get to hear different perspectivs on the agriculture industry.

While Farm Bureau’s mission and values have remained unchanged over the past 90 years, its membership and interests have evolved and progressed.

That’s why Harvesting Perspectives is the theme for this year’s meeting.

Participants will have an opportunity to learn about stress on the farm, international trade, direct marketing and getting out of one’s comfort zone.

Featured speakers Speakers will include Dale Moore, American Farm Bureau Federation executive vice president, and political analyst Dr. Robert Holsworth. Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-7th, has been invited to speak.

Moore brings more than 35 years of public policy experience in Washington to his current role with AFBF. In 2001 he was appointed U.S. Department of Agriculture chief of staff by then-President George W. Bush. He spent more than a dozen years on Capitol Hill, working in various positions for the House Agriculture Committee. Moore grew up in southwest Kansas on a livestock, hay and grain farm.

Holsworth is a former director of the Center for Public Policy and the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University. He also served as executive director of the Governor’s Commission on Efficiency and Effectiveness. His understanding of the political landscape and public policy issues informs his presentations on election trends.

Tuesday Workshops A variety of educational workshops will be offered on Tuesday. A panel

During a Monday dinner cruise, the Spirit of Norfolk will offer attendees a view of the Elizabeth River.

discussion titled Direct Marketing with Excellence: Trials & Triumphs will be led by representatives from the Virginia Foundation for Agriculture, Innovation and Rural Sustainability.

Stress on the Family Farm will be presented by Theresia Gillie, co-owner of Gillie Grain and past president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association.

If you are attending this event for this first time or just want a refresher, Getting the Most Out of Virginia Farm Bureau Annual Meeting will cover how to best take advantage of opportunities for networking, personal and professional development and engaging in the democratic process.

That workshop will be held in the exhibit hall and will be led by Martha Moore, vice president of VFBF governmental relations.

Afternoon workshops will include the Young Farmers Discussion Meet and Promoting & Facilitating International Trade: Benefits to Your Farm, presented by Stephanie Agee, marketing director for the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Additionally, Janice Person, founder of JPlovesCOTTON LLC, will present Stepping Into the Uncomfortable.

Other highlights A Monday evening dinner-anddancing cruise along the Elizabeth River on the Spirit of Norfolk will feature one deck for rock-n-roll and one

for country music. Tickets are $50 each.

Members can tour Perdue Grain on Tuesday morning.

On Wednesday afternoon the VFBF Women’s Committee will announce the winners of a raffle for a custom golf cart and two cash prizes. Proceeds will benefit Virginia Agriculture in the Classroom.

A VA FAIRS Showcase reception featuring Virginia foods, spirits, wines and beers will be held before dinner on Tuesday.

Also on the agenda The Dec. 4 and 5 business sessions will include important updates, remarks from invited guests and policy discussion. It is at the Annual Meeting that delegates from each county Farm Bureau in Virginia help shape VFBF state and federal policies for the coming year. They also will hold elections for directors to represent Districts 3, 6, 9 and 12.

Judging will take place Monday for the Young Farmers Achievement Award. The winner, and the winner of the Discussion Meet, will be announced on Tuesday morning.

An awards banquet Wednesday evening will include presentations of VFBF Distinguished Service Awards and county Farm Bureau Best in State Awards for programming and New Horizon Awards for new programs.

The meeting is open to voting delegates and other interested Farm Bureau members. vafb.com /

NOVEMBER 2019

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Top membership counties for 2019 as of Oct. 17*

County Farm Bureau

Members

Washington 3,222 Charles City-James City- New Kent-York

3,042

Hanover 2,840 Tazewell 2,700 Bedford 2,607 Franklin 2,593 Augusta 2,511 Henrico 2,406 Smyth 2,390 Rockingham 2,289 County Farm Bureau

Percentage of goal

Alleghany 105.57% Chesapeake

105.13%%

Bedford

104.57%

Henrico

103.13%

Amherst

102.24%

Prince Edward

102.20%

Appomattox

102.11%

Wise-Dickenson

101.63%

Richmond

101.57%

Nansemond

101.42%

County Farm Bureau

Member retention rate

Southampton

95.60%

Lunenburg

94.83%

Amherst

94.35%

Giles

94.24%

Floyd

93.81%

Surry

93.68%

Isle of Wight

93.62%

Middlesex

93.36%

Rappahannock

93.32%

Buckingham

93.26%

*Final 2019 membership totals will be published in your January 2020 magazine.

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VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

Amy Fannon of Lee County was first runner-up in the 2019 AFBF Young Farmers & Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture competition and received a Case IH tractor.

Young Farmers to compete for national honors, prizes in January Winners of the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers Achievement Award, Discussion Meet and Excellence in Agriculture Award will compete on the national level at the 2020 American Farm Bureau Federation Annual Convention.

The convention will be held Jan. 17-22 in Austin, Texas. The three competitions enable members to showcase their leadership experience, communication skills and successful business plans as they compete against their peers from each state Farm Bureau.

Winners of the AFBF Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award, Discussion Meet and Excellence in Agriculture Award will receive a new Ford truck or vehicle of equal value, along with paid registration to the 2020 Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Conference. The conference will be held in March in Louisville, Ky. A second-place runner-up in each competition will receive a Case IH Farmall 50A tractor, courtesy of Case IH. Third-place finalists in each competition will receive a Case IH 40� Combination Roll Cabinet and Top Chest and $500 Case IH parts card, courtesy of Case IH. They also will receive $2,000 worth of Stanley Black & Decker merchandise (PROTO, DeWalt, Stanley, Lenox and Irwin), courtesy of Stanley Black & Decker.

Fourth-place finalists in each competition will receive a Case IH 40� Combination Roll Cabinet and Top Chest and a $500 Case IH parts card, courtesy of Case IH. In the event any of the above awards are unavailable, AFBF reserves the right to substitute a prize of comparable or greater value at its sole discretion.

REAL VIRGINIA, WATCH US! >> VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU WEEKLY TV PROGRAM

This month on Real Virginia: Exploring the Salty Southern Trail, and vocational competitions Featured this month on Real Virginia, Virginia Farm Bureau’s weekly television program:

• Vocational students exercise their skills during competitions at the State Fair of Virginia.

• More and more women are working as agricultural extension agents.

• Tour the Salty Southern Trail, and sample peanuts and ham along the way.

• Marvel at Madison County agriculture.

Real Virginia airs nationwide at 3:30 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month on RFD-TV on Dish Network and DirecTV, and on selected cable outlets around the state. It airs weekly on WVPT Harrisonburg, WBRA Roanoke, WCVE Richmond, WVVA Bluefield and WTKR Norfolk.

Watch Real Virginia anytime online at youtube. com/user/VirginiaFarmBureau.

County Farm Bureaus offered more than $150,000 in scholarships in 2018 County Farm Bureaus in Virginia continue to invest in their communities’ future by offering scholarships to local students. In 2018, 65 county Farm Bureaus offered $150,590 through their own scholarship funds, and many Farm Bureaus also contributed to other organizations’ scholarships.

State Fair scholarships The State Fair of Virginia offers more than $70,000 in scholarships annually to winners in 4-H, FFA and vocational competitions, as well as equine, fine arts and horticulture competitions. The fair’s Applied Youth Livestock Scholarship Program awarded $22,255 in scholarships to 12 youth who exhibited beef cattle, sheep, meat goats and swine at the 2018 fair.

Raffle will benefit agriculture literacy WIN-WIN! AITC + YOU

The Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Women’s Committee, county Farm Bureau women’s committees and county Farm Bureaus are selling raffle tickets for a custom golf cart and cash prizes.

The raffle will benefit Virginia Agriculture in the Classroom. Tickets will be sold through Dec. 3 at $10 for one or $25 for three, for three prizes: • First place: Custom golf cart from River City Golf Carts, sponsored by Hoober Inc., Hubner Seed, TopHand Foundation and Emporia Self-Service Storage.

• Second place: $500 cash.

• Third place: $250 cash.

Tickets may be purchased at participating county Farm Bureau offices, at AgInTheClass.org or by mailing a check payable to Agriculture in the Classroom with the purchaser’s name, address, phone number and email address to AITC, P.O. Box 27552, Richmond, VA 23261.

The drawing will take place Dec. 4. All winnings are subject to IRS guidelines.

vafb.com /

NOVEMBER 2019

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PAM WILEY

Gov. Ralph Northam (above, left) visited the State Fair of Virginia on Oct. 4 and was welcomed by Virginia Farm Bureau Federation President Wayne F. Pryor. Northam received a tour of the First Bank & Trust Company Pavilion from Katherine Carter (right), Virginia Cooperative Extension assistant youth livestock programming specialist, and chatted with livestock exhibitors. He also met Virginia’s state FFA officers, toured exhibits of state agencies in the fair’s Natural Resources Area and visited Virginia State University’s aquaculture and STEM exhibit.

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VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

PAM WILEY

Governor checks out livestock arena and other State Fair highlights

Halifax County farmer named Swisher Sweets/ Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year

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ike H. McDowell of Halifax County was honored with the Swisher Sweets/ Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year award for 2019 last month during the Sunbelt Ag Expo farm show in Georgia.

He was selected from a field of 10 state-level finalists. The award recognizes excellence in agricultural production and farm management, along with leadership in farm and community organizations. It also honors family contributions in producing safe and abundant supplies of food, fiber and shelter products.

McDowell is a fourth-generation farmer who grows hay and alfalfa and raises award-winning registered Angus cattle on Locust Level Farm in Vernon Hill.

“We are very excited to have another top winner representing Virginia,” said Wayne F. Pryor, president of Virginia Farm Bureau Federation. “Mike’s innovative farming practices and forwardthinking conservation efforts are a true testament to his commitment to the agriculture industry.”

At the age of 16, McDowell began to farm 3 acres on his own under a sharecropping arrangement with his father. That experience helped him pay college tuition at Virginia Tech, where he earned degrees in animal science and agronomy.

The family farm historically grew tobacco and row crops, but McDowell saw tobacco quota cuts approaching and decided to diversify with an Angus seedstock operation.

He also implemented conservation

improvements, including cover crops and minimized tillage. Today the farm has 95% of the land in no-till or sod. It also boasts 120 head of purebred Angus cows, 50 head of purebred heifers and 70 head of purebred sale bulls.

McDowell has embraced new techniques for producing purebreds such as genetic selection, ultrasonic evaluation for yearling bulls and heifers, evaluation of genomic rankings and embryo transfer programs.

He has been Virginia Seedstock Producer of the Year twice and was named 2019 Farmer of the Year

by Virginia Cooperative Extension. He currently serves as director of the Halifax County Cattlemen’s Association and previously served on the Halifax County Farm Bureau board of directors.

“Mike is an outstanding farmer who took a unique path to build his operation over the years and become a role model for others who want to farm,” said John Miller, president of Swisher International Inc. McDowell received a $15,000 cash award plus $2,500 as a state winner from Swisher International. He also received the use of a Massey Ferguson product for a year from Massey Ferguson North America, a $500 gift certificate from Southern States Cooperative, a Columbia jacket from Ivey’s Outdoor and Farm Supply, a smoker-grill from Hays LTI, and a Henry “American Farmer” Tribute Edition rifle from Reinke Irrigation. vafb.com /

NOVEMBER 2019

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Watershed plan offers mixed bag for Virginia farmers

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irginia Farm Bureau Federation expressed mixed feelings earlier this fall about Gov. Ralph Northam’s restoration plan for Virginia’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay. “There are a lot of positive elements in the plan, but some of the mandatory requirements concern us,” said Martha Moore, VFBF vice president of governmental relations.

The plan, referred to as the Phase III Watershed Implementation Plan or WIP III, was designed to meet the state’s commitments to reduce nutrient and sediment pollution and restore the health of the bay and its tributaries by 2025.

WIP III includes a focus on providing farmers with improved financial and technical assistance by adding new resources for Virginia’s Agricultural Best Management Practices CostShare Program and the Agricultural Best Management Practice Loan Program. For fiscal year 2020, the state committed $73 million for the costshare program.

The added funding for agricultural cost-share practices is one of the positives of WIP III, Moore noted.

Also appreciated is flexibility in implementing conservation practices based on site-specific variations, and possible future expansion of eligibility for farmers to receive tax credits for conservation practices when cost-share money is not available.

One of Farm Bureau’s concerns with WIP III is a change in how farmers’ applications for cost-share funding are ranked by soil and water conservation district offices. “We want to make sure a change in the application process doesn’t delay implementation of farm conservation practices,” Moore explained.

Another concern regards a stipulation that if Virginia doesn’t have nutrient management plans implemented on 85% of farms with 8

VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

50 or more acres by Dec. 31, 2025, the plans will become mandatory for all farms that size. The state nutrient management plan program is up for review next fall, so requirements could change.

“We just think this is premature,” Moore said. “The plan should focus on voluntary compliance. When costshare money is available, our farmers step up to the plate and implement all of these conservation practices that contribute to the health of the bay.”

Of even greater concern is the

stipulation that farmers must fence livestock out of perennial streams.

Moore contends that Virginia farmers who receive cost-share funding when it is available continue to voluntarily fence their cattle out of streams.

Earlier this year the Chesapeake Bay Program announced water quality in the bay had attained its highest level since monitoring began in 1985. Virginia agriculture met its 2017 midpoint goals for nitrogen and phosphorous under the bay requirements, contributing to enhanced water quality.

“We know the bay is improving, and that our farmers are contributing to that effort,” Moore said. “We appreciate that some of our comments were reflected in the revisions to the governor’s plan, but we don’t support mandates that will make it more difficult for our farmers to continue their conservation efforts.”

Largest-ever investment in conservation practices to benefit farmers, waterways Record-high funding for Virginia’s cost-share program for agricultural best management practices will enable more farmers to participate.

Gov. Ralph Northam’s recent announcement of the availability of $73 million to protect water and soil health through farm conservation practices represents the largest-ever investment of state funding in that program.

“We thank the governor and General Assembly for their commitment to implementing voluntary conservation measures by providing adequate costshare funding and technical assistance to districts,” noted Wayne F. Pryor, president of Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.

The cost-share program is a partnership between the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and Virginia’s 47 soil

and water conservation districts.

Individuals, partnerships, trusts and other businesses operating farms in Virginia may qualify for cost-share assistance. The program year runs July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020.

Producers may visit their local SWCD offices for information and to apply. Applications are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

For fiscal year 2020, participant caps have been raised to $100,000.

This, coupled with a renewed state Agricultural Best Management Practices Loan Program from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, can make installation of practices more achievable. The loan program will offer zero-interest loans and may now authorize up to 100% of loan assistance in the form of principal forgiveness for projects that provide a high water quality benefit.

Insurance agent Jim Jervey (center) gets by with a little help from his coworkers, including, from left, Sherry Lee, Jenna Story, Brenda Eure, Lori Vasser and Michelle Cleaton.

Relationships form the foundation for agent in work, community

BY CLAIRE MILLS

W

hen Jim Jervey, a Virginia Farm Bureau insurance agent in Southampton County, received the Ralph Stokes Award, it was one of the few times in his life he can recall being rendered speechless.

“When I heard my name, I just felt humbled, honored and proud,” he recalled.

Jervey celebrated 25 years with the company the month before he received the top recognition given to agents by Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. After graduating from Franklin High School and Hampden-Sydney College, Jervey taught math and coached football, basketball, volleyball and track from 1980 to 1994 in several schools, including his high school alma mater.

In 1994, he decided to make a career move into the insurance world.

“Gail Parker, also a Ralph Stokes Award winner, was my high school counselor and football coach. Later, when he was an agency manager, he

was the one who hired me to work for Farm Bureau insurance,” Jervey noted.

As a teacher and coach or as Farm Bureau’s top agent, Jervey has been a devoted leader in building relationships and teamwork.

“Life is about relationships – relationships with family, friends and God. Each time I meet a client, it is about developing a better relationship, but it takes time,” Jervey said.

When he started getting referrals, Jervey knew those positive relationships had helped to establish him in his new vocation.

The Ralph Stokes Award is given annually to a Farm Bureau agent who supports company policies; is highly respected by peers; supports the agency force; and fosters a high degree of client loyalty.

This year’s recipient and avid sports fan enjoys the opportunity to guide his clients with a good measure of “bubbly personality” and coaching mindset.

“In my work, if some things are not working at halftime, we had better

make adjustments so that we can succeed,” he remarked. “I often remind myself to make necessary adjustments in the third or fourth quarter.”

As for his family, Jervey and his wife, Glenda, have two children, James and Jennifer, who grew up in the extended Farm Bureau family.

In addition to Jervey’s outstanding contributions to Farm Bureau, he is involved in the Franklin community.

For 18 years he chaired the area Relay for Life fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, and he is a longtime Sunday school leader at High Street United Methodist Church.

Even after 25 years in the insurance world, Jervey continues to support the mission of providing educational opportunities to local students.

Since 2002 he has been president of the Franklin City Educational Foundation, which funds teacher grants and student scholarships. He also chairs his local Ruritan club’s student scholarship committee. Until 2014 he volunteered as a part-time football coach at Franklin High School. vafb.com /

NOVEMBER 2019

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Give your animals the gift of an emergency livestock kit

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ive your livestock the gift of health this holiday season by being prepared for emergencies.

“You need to be able to handle your animal on your own until a veterinarian can arrive,” said Dr. Melinda McCall, a large animal veterinarian for Louisa Veterinary Service Inc. in Louisa County. “We service a large area, and it can take time for someone to arrive.”

One easy thing she recommends: “Use your cell phone to snap a photo or video, and send it to us so we can see what you are dealing with and assess the situation while we’re on our way,” 10

VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

McCall said. “That helps a lot, if we can tell you how to help the animal and let you know whether it is a true emergency.”

Emergency animal issues include: Bloat

For a ruminant with bloat, place the animal in an upright position. “Fifty gallons of air can cause asphyxia, and it is important to let the animal breathe.

Putting the animal in a sternal position (sitting upright) will help it to breathe again,” McCall explained.

Consider your limitations before trying to move a larger animal alone.

“Don’t hurt yourself. That’s the first rule. Don’t make yourself a patient in the process,” McCall added.

Put a halter on the animal to help turn it. If the animal is weak, help hold it up by using a round bale of hay, a tractor or truck, or something else it can lean against.

McCall said to keep a bloat needle nearby, and a 5-foot garden hose, to help get the gas out of the animal. “You won’t drown them, and a slightly dirty hose is better than not getting help— antibiotics can be given after.”

In extreme cases, bloat gas can be relieved with an incision. Ask your

veterinarian when and how to perform such a procedure.

Hypothermia

Baby goats, lambs and calves are especially prone to hypothermia. Keep a thermometer on hand, even a cheap digital one. “If the ‘L’ is flashing, you are behind the eight ball, because their temperature is too low,” McCall said.

Hypothermic animals need warmth, she said. “Take the animal to a wood stove or the floor of a truck with towels.”

Use warm water to raise the animal’s temperature, but not too warm, as you can shock the animal. “You want to warm them slowly.”

Or try a heating pad. “Put a towel over the heating pad so it isn’t too hot, and rotate the pad from side to side.”

Loss of blood

“Loss of blood is serious,” McCall said. “Pressure is key.”

She suggested keeping a box of tampons or a pressure wrap on hand, because you can use them to soak up blood or apply pressure to a bleed. “A cow’s mammary vein gland could be sliced or bleeding. If so, keep pressure on it.”

Sheep or goats that have been attacked by a predator can lose a lot of blood. “Don’t force fluids down their throat; just try to control the bleeding.”

Low blood sugar

Put some Karo syrup on the animal’s gums. “It’s a little sugar in a safe way.”

Pain relief

Ask your veterinarian what they suggest for pain and fever. “You can crush aspirin and put it in the animal’s mouth,” McCall said. But some human medications can do more harm than good, so ask ahead of time to be prepared with the proper medications.

Relieving pain will help with comfort and buy time for a vet to arrive.

Make an animal first-aid kit!

At the very minimum, every livestock owner should have the following supplies on hand: • Bandaging tape • Latex gloves • Stethoscope • Thermometer • Wound dressing pads The following is a comprehensive list: • Absorbent cotton • Adhesive tape • Antiseptic scrub • Disposable latex gloves • Disposable razor • Duct tape (for bandaging the bottoms of hooves) • Dusting powder (for killing biting and chewing insects on poultry, hogs, sheep, cattle and horses) • Epsom salts (for soaking hooves) • Farrier’s rasp • First aid guide • Flashlight with extra batteries • Frothy bloat treatment (for bloat and constipation in ruminants) • Gauze dressing pads • Hoof dressing (for thrush/foot rot) • Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol • Lubricant for a thermometer (i.e., petroleum jelly)

• Nonsteroidal eye ointment • Oral syringe (for dosing medications by mouth) • Pocket knife • Pruning oil spray (for chickens with bald spots and wounds—protects and seals the skin) • Rectal thermometer (Tie a long string attached to an alligator clip or clothespin to one end; attach clip to animal’s tail during use.)

• Roll gauze • Safety scissors (for cutting dressings) • Scissors • Self-stick elastic bandage, such as Vetrap • Sterile saline solution (for rinsing wounds and removing debris from eyes) • Stethoscope • Stop Pick liquid (stops cannibalism in poultry) • Syringe (without the needle, for flushing wounds) • Tweezers • Udder ointment (Check label for use in dairy animals.)

• Wire cutters • Wound ointment/spray (Check the label if you plan to use the product for meat and dairy animals.)

vafb.com /

NOVEMBER 2019

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE Employees go beyond

Farm Bureau makes a difference in communities Virginia Farm Bureau believes in making a difference in the communities it serves. Sometimes the altruism is tangible, like counties that offer scholarships to local students. And sometimes, the difference is made when Virginia Farm Bureau employees go above and beyond.

Ag classes helping improve nutrition in Wythe County schools

T

here aren’t many farm-to-table connections in Wythe County schools, but agriculture teacher Jonathan Grimes aims to change that.

He recently was awarded a $25,000 Virginia Department of Education, Office of School Nutrition Programs, Farm to School Grant after working in conjunction with the county schools’ cafeteria manager to apply for it.

Grant applicants could request up to $25,000 to develop a pilot program for farm-to-school initiatives that connect the cafeteria to the classroom, school garden and community.

Grimes will use the grant funds to construct hydroponic growing systems with his horticulture students at Fort Chiswell High School, and agriculture students will grow lettuce. Eventually, they will provide lettuce for all 13 county public schools.

Grimes, who serves on the Wythe County Farm Bureau board, asked the county Farm Bureau to support the program. Several Farm Bureau members will serve on an advisory committee for the project.

Grimes said the grant also will enable him to build raised beds and allow his 12

VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

students to grow seasonal produce to supplement the year-round lettuce.

“This will expose kids to all different types of food and will help create healthier eating habits amongst the students in Wythe County,” Grimes said.

He said the project also will help his students learn through the hands-on experience of following food from farm to table—or greenhouse to cafeteria.

Grimes believes that once the schools start sourcing fresh produce from the students, they’ll be more apt to purchase fruits and vegetables from local farmers.

Nottoway Farm Bureau potentially savings lives with AED

The Nottoway County Farm Bureau is purchasing and installing an automated external defibrillator for the Southside Livestock Market in Blackstone.

“I go there to sell my cattle and see a lot of farmers using canes and walkers,” said Grayson Mullins, a beef cattle producer and county Farm Bureau president. “We thought placing an AED there could possibly help save a life.”

Senior district field services director Greg Maxey sent out a letter soliciting help from other neighboring county Farm Bureaus whose members may use the Blackstone market, and eight have contributed.

Paul Robertson, assistant captain of the Nottoway County Emergency Squad, said the AED will be helpful to

the community. He explained that if someone had an emergency while at the livestock market, it could take up to 30 minutes for the rescue crew to arrive.

“If someone uses the AED while they wait for an ambulance, it’s a very good possibility that AED will save their life,” Robertson said. “These are extremely vital to have in public areas, and I think it’s a wonderful thing that Farm Bureau is doing.”

Page Farm Bureau helps children attend camp

Page County Farm Bureau insurance agent Andy Caviness has helped local children attend 4-H camp for several years.

The county sheriff’s department sends underprivileged children to one of the Northern Virginia 4-H Center’s summer camps each year. Deputies serve as counselors at the camp and participate in activities like fishing, cooking over a campfire and playing games.

“I’ve sent money to sponsor a child each year and really enjoy doing so,” Caviness said. “This is a great project, because kids get to see police officers as people that care about the kids.

“When the kids see the deputies in street clothes, spending time with them as real people, I think it brings about a certain amount of respect now and later in life.”

Caviness was so impressed with the program that he told the Page County Farm Bureau board of directors about the camp, and they felt it was a worthwhile cause. Now he and the board donate money for the camp each year.

Virginia Farm Bureau claims adjusters are there for you—and other Farm Bureaus

Virginia Farm Bureau claims adjusters are not only there for their own customers; they’ve got the backs of Farm Bureau members in other states.

When a catastrophic event like a hurricane happens, Farm Bureaus support each other.

“After a significant widespread event, such as a hurricane or hailstorm, individual state Farm Bureaus may put in a request for assistance through American Agricultural Insurance Co.,” explained Laurie Gannon, director of claims administration for Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. “American Ag sends out an email to each Farm Bureau’s vice president of claims, requesting assistance. Each state may need to assess its own needs, in the event they too suffered from the same storm or hurricane, and then put out the call to their claims staff.”

When a Virginia adjuster travels to another state to provide assistance, they are given the contact information for a coordinator, as well as accommodations information. Adjusters typically drive to the location and bring their own equipment like ladders.

When they arrive, the adjusters go through orientation and then, “they begin knocking out claims,” Gannon said. She said Virginia Farm Bureau has had many employees take part in catastrophic event duty in other states over the years.

Dwayne Clarke, senior field claims

COURTESY OF DWAYNE CLARKE

COURTESY OF ANDY CAVINESS

Page County Farm Bureau helps send local children to 4-H camp.

Claims adjusters help their peers in other areas when natural disasters strike.

representative, frequently volunteers.

“I’ve been out of state after events several times over the years. It’s always good to be able to help our Farm Bureau members and employees in their time of need, and they will often extend the same to us when we have a something catastrophic take place.”

Kent Calfee, also a senior field claims representative, also has helped as well.

“I have been numerous times, starting in 1989 with Hurricane Hugo. I also assisted with Hurricane Katrina,” he explained. “I have traveled to North Carolina, Georgia and Louisiana, as well as to all parts of Virginia.” vafb.com /

NOVEMBER 2019

13

David Hula uses GPS technology to track his corn planting and harvesting. Film crews follow him around the fields with cameras and drones.

Corn Warrior Record-breaking Virginia corn grower competing on reality TV show

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY KATHY DIXON

W

hen David Hula was contacted three years ago about participating in a reality TV show called Corn Wars, he laughed.

“A reality show about raising corn?

Was this going to be educational or dramatic?” recounted Hula on a recent filming day at one of his farms in Henrico County. “David [Hula] and Renwood Farms, we don’t do drama.”

But the producers convinced Hula, who is currently the National Corn Growers Association corn yield world record-holder, to compete on the show. The TV crew follows Hula and four other farmers as they plant, manage and harvest their corn. On a warm late-September day, they were filming Hula’s harvest for the show’s third season.

Mother Nature brings drama Executive producer Seth Wood said “Mother Nature wrote the script this year.” While growing conditions in Virginia had been sunny and dry, the weather in Indiana and Illinois had been just the opposite.

Indiana and Illinois farmers who compete on the show have had “an epic battle with rain” this season, Wood said. Because of the wet weather, those farmers were unable to plant until 70 days after they anticipated. “Every day you plant late, you’re losing yields,” he noted.

The point of the show is for corn growers to compete for the highest number of bushels per 1-acre plot. And while weather, pests and equipment failures often provide drama, Wood said this year he also tried to explain farmers’ financial struggles and mental health concerns. “We want to show the true reality of farming.”

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VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

and had a successful yield,” Hula said.

He is a fourth-generation producer who farms with his dad, Stanley, his son, Craig, and two brothers, Johnny and Jeff. In addition to corn, they grow soybeans, wheat, oats and cucumbers. Breaking records runs in the family.

“My granddad was one of the first to break 100 bushels of corn per acre,” Hula noted. “And my dad was the first to break 200.”

He feels compelled to carry on the family tradition. Hula currently holds the highest NCGA record for corn yield, 542 bushels per acre.

These are the corn ‘warriors’ Season 3 corn growers are:

Short cutline XXX XXXXXXXXX

Brooks Cardinal Farm: Cardinal Farms, Oaktown, Indiana Code Name: Poseidon Randy Dowdy Farm: Dowdy Farms, Pavo, Georgia Code Name: Achilles

While many fellow farmers watch the show to get tips on growing record-yielding corn, Hula is surprised at how many non-farmers tune in.

Corn growers have fans At an annual Commodity Classic farm convention, which is where the Corn Warriors are crowned, a family stopped Hula and said their daughter was a big fan of the TV show. She wanted a picture with him. “It’s pretty neat when people see farmers as mentors,” Hula said.

The show originally was named Corn Wars, but was renamed Corn Warriors after the first season to emphasize the farmers and not the competition. It airs on RFD-TV Thursdays at 5 p.m.

Season 3 started in mid-September, and the 30-minute episodes ran

through the end of October. Seasons 1 and 2 can be viewed on Amazon Prime, on video-on-demand services like Roku and Apple TV, and on YouTube.

Show hopes to fill a programming void Wood said the idea for the show stemmed from 20 years in the TV industry and no agriculture reality shows. “I saw a need,” he said.

The show is made possible by its sponsors—Brandt, Precision Planting and Next Level.

Next Level is a collaboration between Hula and another contestant, Randy Dowdy of Georgia. Through the company, they offer corn-growing camps to other farmers. “There’s nothing more satisfying than hearing a grower say he followed the program

David Hula Farm: Renwood Farms, Charles City, Virginia Code Name: Zeus Kevin Kalb Farm: Kevin Kalb Farms, DuBois, Indiana Code Name: Spartacus Dan Luepkes Farm: Luepkes Enterprises, Oregon, Illinois Code Name: Aphrodite Want more information? Visit cornwarriorstv.com. If you sign up for a free Yellow Gold Account, you can watch episodes before they air on TV.

vafb.com /

NOVEMBER 2019

15

LEE COUNTY

REGIONAL VETERINARIAN SHORTAGE WAS AT HEART OF SCHOOL’S FOUNDING

L

ocal farmers were among participants in a tour of Lincoln Memorial University’s College of Veterinary Medicine last fall.

They likely saw where their next livestock vets are training.

The Harrogate, Tenn.-based university opened its veterinary school across the state line in Virginia—in Lee County’s Ewing community—in 2014. Its first class of veterinarians graduated in 2018, and each graduate immediately had job offers, said Autry O.V. “Pete” DeBusk, chairman of the LMU board of trustees.

“We decided that would be our specialty” According to a report released in December 2015, 75% of the rural counties within the Appalachian footprint reported a shortage of veterinarians.

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VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

Appalachian students made up 25% of the inaugural LMU veterinary class, and 33% of the graduates are practicing in Tennessee, Kentucky or Virginia. Thirty-four percent are in large-animal or mixed-animal practices.

Four of those graduates went to work in Southwest Virginia.

“We’re out in a rural area; we’re not in a city where you are going to have a lot of cats and dogs and smaller animals,” DeBusk noted. “And one of the things we knew is missing today in veterinary medicine is a more intense, thorough course in large animal medicine. So we decided that would be our specialty.”

DeBusk, a native of Lee County, donated farmland for the veterinary facility. Late last year Virginia Farm Bureau Federation honored him with its 2018 Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LMU

Tennessee-based Lincoln Memorial University built its DeBusk Veterinary Teaching Center just across the state line in Virginia’s Lee County.

Students (top) spend their fourth year of study interning in veterinary practices. Local farmers (above) toured the college last fall. Third-year student Morgan Stacy (top right) plans to practice in Southwest Virginia after earning her degree.

“They did a great job” Emily Fisher Edmondson, a Virginia Farm Bureau Federation board member who farms in Tazewell County, was delighted to see LMU veterinary graduates start their careers in her community. “Two of them have been to my farm and pregnancy-checked my cattle. They did a great job,” she said.

Edmondson called the college “the jewel of Lee County—and one of the precious jewels of Southwest Virginia. … It’s a very agricultural area, and now we have a vet school that’s producing these veterinarians that we need in the livestock industry.”

LMU veterinary students take academic courses on the university’s Tennessee campus but spend most of their study time at the veterinary school, about 15 minutes’ drive from

the Cumberland Gap. LMU was founded in 1897 with the mission of helping Appalachian residents build better lives. A focus on learning about the types of animals owned by Appalachian farmers was a natural fit, explained Dr. Randall Thompson, medical director of the DeBusk Veterinary Teaching Center.

Each student spends his or her fourth year interning in a veterinary practice.

While pursuing their degrees, “they have exposure to all the typical hightech tools,” Thompson noted. “We have endoscopy, we have ultrasound, we have an extensive dental training program for both large and small animals. We do have students who have gone on to a traditional track of doing an internship, followed by a residency. But the preponderance of our students are those who want to go right into practice.”

On Real Virginia Real Virginia, Virginia Farm Bureau’s weekly television program, visited Lincoln Memorial University’s Virginia-based veterinary college last fall. See it for yourself at bit.ly/rv18lmucvm.

“It just feels so natural” Morgan Stacy, a third-year veterinary student, said the college’s location was a key factor in her decision to attend.

“I’m from Russell County, so it feels like home to me; it feels like a community. The second thing I love is, of course, interacting with the animals and the opportunity to work with them hands-on from Day One. … It’s been an amazing experience to have that hands-on clinical time with animals.”

Stacy said she plans to practice in Southwest Virginia upon graduating.

She recalled her first visit to the veterinary school as “such an amazing experience driving through the farmland. It just feels so natural. There’s fresh air—it’s not only good for the animals, it’s good for the students, too.” pam.wiley@vafb.com vafb.com / NOVEMBER 2019

17

HOME WATER DAMAGE IS UNWELCOME

H

Rising waters from storms can lead to home damage that may – or may not – be covered by a homeowner insurance policy.

aving a house full of water—where you don’t want it—can be an unwelcome surprise.

Water can cause damage to your home through leaks from a water heater, a washing machine and its hoses, an ice maker supply line, toilet and sink supply lines and valves, the dishwasher and anywhere else water is used.

It also can be caused by water lines coming into your home.

“The tricky thing about water is that it can come from so many different areas. Where insurance is concerned, you may not be automatically covered,” said Sam Rooks, vice president of underwriting and policy services for Virginia Farm Bureau 18

VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

Mutual Insurance Co. “Water damage can be very expensive, especially with mold issues that may come up, and the cost to remediate water losses.”

Under a homeowner or business owner policy, if a storm removed shingles, caused a roof to leak and created interior damage, a structure would be covered. However, there is no coverage for water damage related to deferred maintenance.

Coverage also is provided for sudden and accidental events, such as a burst water heater or an overflowing dishwasher or washing machine, but there is no coverage available for damage that resulted from poorly maintained plumbing.

assume the costs yourself.

“Some people assume that FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) or some entity will step in and cover the cleanup and repairs,” Rooks explained. “The reality is if you don’t have flood insurance, you will be faced with making the repairs out of your own pocket.”

Business and home owners must purchase flood insurance through an insurance agent; they cannot buy it directly from the National Flood Insurance Program, as it is an insurance policy and not an endorsement.

Flood insurance is available to homeowners, renters, condo owners and renters, and commercial owners and renters.

Flood insurance is the best way to protect yourself from devastating financial loss, because without it you are left to assume the costs yourself.

“You can insure both your buildings and the contents of them for flood coverage,” Rooks said. “Your business or home does not have to be located in a flood plain to purchase flood insurance.”

There’s typically a 30-day waiting period from the date of flood insurance purchase before your policy goes into effect. “Policies cannot be purchased before a big storm or hurricane—it takes at least 30 days before your policy will go into effect,” Rooks explained.

Not all water damage is preventable, but to help prevent some types of water damage, consider these steps:

Water damage caused by the following issues needs a separate insurance policy endorsement: • Water or sewer pipe backups • Flood

Water damage caused by a flood is handled differently

If your home or business was damaged due to a flood— regardless of whether it is in a flood zone —you must have flood insurance.

Flood insurance is the best way to protect yourself from devastating financial loss, because without it you are left to

•T urn the main water supply off when away for an extended period of time. Turn off the water heater using the electrical panel breaker to keep it from overheating.

•C heck the ice maker supply line to make sure there isn’t a kink in the line. When pulling out the refrigerator for any reason, and then pushing it back in place, take care not to damage the supply line.

•C heck all supply lines to toilets, sinks, washing machines and other items regularly, and replace those that are showing signs of wear. When replacing hoses and supply lines, consider using steel braided hoses, which offer more protection than plastic or rubber ones.

•C onsider installing a passive alarm system on water heaters or other parts of the plumbing system that will sound an alarm if a leak is detected. There also are active alarm systems that will cut off the water supply if a leak is detected.

Contact your insurance agent if you have questions about what’s covered in your policy.

vafb.com / NOVEMBER 2019

19

Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. named to Ward’s 50 Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. was named among the 2019 Property-Casualty Ward’s 50 Companies. This marks the second year in a row that the company has received this recognition.

The list is compiled by Ward Group, a consulting firm specializing in the insurance industry and a leading provider of industry benchmarking.

“To be named one of the 50 top property and casualty companies in the country for two consecutive years is an incredible honor,” said Darlene Wells, VFBMIC executive vice president and general manager.

“This recognition is made possible by the tremendous work ethic of

our employees, whose contributions toward creating a financially strong and growing insurance company are top-notch. Continuing to grow our premiums, and building a stronger financial base, allows our companies to better serve our policyholders for the long term.”

Each year Ward Group analyzes the financial performance of nearly 3,000 property and casualty insurance companies in the United States and identifies the top performers. Each company named to Ward’s Top 50 has passed all safety and consistency screens and achieved superior performance over the five years it was analyzed. VFBMIC was one of

only two Virginia-based insurance companies on the list.

The Ward’s 50 property-casualty group of insurance companies produced an 11.6% statutory return on average equity from 2014 to 2018, compared to 7.6% for the propertycasualty industry overall.

“In selecting the Ward’s 50, we identified companies that pass financial stability requirements and measure their ability to grow while maintaining strong capital positions and underwriting results,” said Jeff Rieder, partner and head of Ward benchmarking at Aon, a leading global professional services firm. The Ward’s 50 benchmark group also continues to achieve lower expense ratios.

Staff to work with members in various capacities Kathleen M. Early has been named corporate secretary for Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.

Early brings professional and corporate governance experience with executive officers, attorneys, boards of directors and committees both inside and outside the Farm Bureau organization.

She has worked as a legal assistant, director of legal services and manager of governance and spent 11 years as assistant secretary for the American Farm Bureau Federation, working with executive officers to support the AFBF board of directors and eight affiliate boards.

Early holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology/criminal justice from Longwood University and a master’s in education from Trinity University.

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VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

Kathy Dixon has been named publication and online managing editor. She will handle editorial responsibilities for member magazines, as well as numerous other print and digital Farm Bureau communications.

Dixon most recently served as the organization’s assistant editor.

Her work has garnered numerous communications and public relations awards from the American Farm Bureau Federation, most recently Best Magazine as part of the Cultivate editorial team this summer.

She is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a bachelor’s in mass communications.

Pam Wiley has been named director of communications for Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.

Wiley brings 25 years of association communications experience to the position and will oversee Farm Bureau’s member magazines, weekly television program, digital communications and public and media relations efforts.

She has worked for the organization since 2000, most recently as publications and online managing editor. She holds a bachelor’s in communications from James Madison University.

Smart Start Program available online

H

elp your teenager drive smart while you save money.

Virginia Farm Bureau’s Smart Start Program can save customers money on auto insurance premiums when they have a teen driver enrolled in the program.

Teens may enroll starting at age 16, but to qualify they must be enrolled before age 18 and be accident- and conviction-free. A premium discount will be applied up to age 25, as long as drivers continue to meet the program requirements.

To enroll, teen drivers must complete the following three steps online: • Watch the Smart Start video.

• Review the Smart Start program booklet and keep it for reference.

• Take a 12-question quiz after watching the video and reviewing the booklet.

Once enrolled, to maintain the discount, the teen driver must: • Maintain a valid Virginia driver’s license.

When teens enroll in the Smart Start Program, they have incentive to drive safely and save money.

• Stay listed on a Virginia Farm Bureau personal auto policy.

• Maintain an accident-and conviction-free driving record.

For more information or to enroll in the program online, visit vafb.com/smart-start.

vafb.com / NOVEMBER 2019

21

Health Care insurance open enrollment for 2020

T

his year’s open Important dates for 2020 enrollment comes with enrollment: great news—Anthem • Nov. 1, 2019 – open enrollment Blue Cross Blue Shield starts has returned to 20 more localities in Virginia on the • Dec. 15, 2019 – open enrollment Affordable Care Act’s Individual ends Marketplace.

• Jan. 1, 2020 – first date 2020 Health care insurance open coverage can start enrollment for 2020 will begin Nov. 1 and run through Contact your county Farm Bureau Dec. 15. The window to purchase office for assistance. coverage is only 45 days long.

Medicare customers: AEP, County Farm Bureau health insurance representatives can share If you don’t enroll in a 2020 information on your best options.

Medicare’s Annual Election Period, health insurance plan by runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7.

For Medicare Advantage and Dec. 15, 2019, you can’t enroll unless you qualify for a special Part D prescription drug plans, this is the time to sign up for, enrollment period. Special enrollment periods include, but change or unenroll from a plan.

Anthem will be adding a third are not limited to, job changes or retirement; turning 26 and Medicare Part D plan to their list of plan options.

Contact your no longer being included on a parent’s policy; and the birth of county Farm Bureau beginning Oct. 15 for more information. a child. For a list of qualifying events, visit healthcare.gov and click on “See If I Can Enroll.”

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Virginia Farm Bureau 1-800-229-7779 An authorized licensed insurance agent for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia, license number: 109534

This policy has exclusions, limitations and terms under which the policy may be continued in force or discontinued. For more information on benefits, please contact your agent or the health plan. Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the federal Medicare program. The purpose of this communication is the solicitation of insurance. Contact will be made by an insurance agent or insurance company. Anthem Health Plans of Virginia, Inc. trades as Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia, and its service area is all of Virginia except for the City of Fairfax, the Town of Vienna, and the area east of State Route 123. Independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

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VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

Automotive technology changing driver habits

Avian flu loss coverage endorsement available

Automotive technology is rapidly changing, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is researching what is working—and what is not.

“New technology is changing for the good but can sometimes have negatively intended consequences,” said Jessica Cicchino, vice president of research for IIHS. “The technology changes driving tasks.”

The institute is an independent, nonprofit scientific and educational organization dedicated to reducing losses from crashes on the nation’s roads. It is supported by auto insurers and insurance associations, including the Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. IIHS has studied how crash avoidance systems and driving automation change driving habits and have the potential for unintended consequences like driver distraction.

The institute has conducted studies on how drivers are using advanced vehicle technologies such as adaptive cruise control, safe following distance and pilot assist or lane assist.

“Drivers still need to watch hills, hazards and curves; that’s an issue with these automated technologies,” said David Harkey, IIHS president.

Technology can improve driver behavior, but researchers aren’t sure

Poultry farmers may be eligible for an endorsement on their farmowner policies that covers lost income due to avian influenza outbreak on their farms or at a dependent location.

“An avian flu outbreak can devastate a poultry farm,” said Scott DeNoon, farm product and underwriting manager for Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. “This endorsement can alleviate the financial impact of this type of loss and can help them continue farming.”

Coverage can be added for loss of farm earnings from the following: •D epopulation and death of poultry from avian influenza at an insured location; •Q uarantine of an insured location due to avian influenza; or •A vian influenza at a dependent location such as the integrator or supplier.

Depopulation coverage must be purchased to obtain quarantine and/ or earnings from dependent locations’ coverages.

“Coverage also is included for extra expenses such as clean-up costs, testing and similar,” DeNoon added.

Certain conditions apply. To determine if you are eligible to add this endorsement to your policy, contact your county Farm Bureau insurance agent.

how it affects safety. There have been positive changes with crash avoidance technology, and the organization is working to address issues to reduce forward collisions and lane drift.

Teen drivers are the highest-risk driving group, and technology can help cut some of the risk, noted Becca Weast, IIHS research scientist.

The institute has studied technologies that allow parents to remotely monitor their teens’ driving.

When a teen isn’t wearing his or her seatbelt, is speeding or hard breaking or accelerating, he or she may receive an alert, and a parent may receive the same alert. In most cases, it is making a difference, Weast said.

Cicchino noted that new technologies have not decreased the number of crashes.

“The perceived notion is that you hear ‘automation’ and think it can be hands-off, and that the technology is more capable than it is,” she said.

Additionally, safety technology is useful only when it is used. Studies have found that some drivers find it annoying and are turning it off. In a study of 1,000 cars, only 52 percent had safety features such as lane assist turned on.

For more information about IIHS and research studies visit iihs.org.

Expanded equine endorsements available If you board horses on your property or offer riding instruction or training, you may be eligible to add two new endorsements to your farmowner policy that offer liability protection for those activities.

“We have listened to our equine customers and developed these enhancements, which we believe meet many of their coverage needs,” said Scott DeNoon, farm product and underwriting manager for Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. One of the optional endorsements

provides liability coverage for equine operations engaged in certain types of riding instruction and horse training as well as boarding activities.

“Although we currently insure small-scale boarding operations in our farmowner program, this coverage allows us to accommodate larger boarding ventures as well as those customers offering specific riding instruction and training services,” DeNoon explained.

A second endorsement for care, custody and control coverage also

is available to protect an insured in the event a horse in their care sustains injury or death because of the individual’s negligence. Incidental coverage for emergency medical treatment and related transportation expenses also is included, with a $2,000 limit.

“There are some eligibility requirements and exclusions associated with these coverages, so anyone interested in them should contact their Farm Bureau agent for additional information,” DeNoon added. vafb.com / NOVEMBER 2019

23

AITC announces grant winners for educational projects Virginia Agriculture in the Classroom has awarded 62 grants to 38 Virginia localities for the 2019-2020 school year. Funding will be allocated to provide 25,000 youth with agriculture experiences related to gardening, animal agriculture, health and nutrition and leadership development.

“This year we had an outpouring of grant applicants reflecting pre-K through 12th grade education programs from schools across the commonwealth,” said Tammy Maxey, Virginia AITC senior education manager. “These schools and 4-H chapters will start gardens, provide nutrition and culinary experiences, begin school farms and create agriculture leadership opportunities. We look forward to visiting these grant sites and watching students learn.”

Grants were received by: • Augusta County: Valley Career and Technical Center • Botetourt County: Central Academy Middle School • Carroll County: Carroll County Middle School • Chesapeake: Grassfield Elementary School and Montessori Academy of Virginia

AITC grants help fund agriculture-related classroom activities.

• Chesterfield County: Alberta Smith Elementary School, Crenshaw Elementary School, Grange Hall Elementary School, J.B. Watkins Elementary School, Providence Middle School and Manchester High School • Clarke County: Johnson-Williams Middle School • Fauquier County: Kettle Run High School • Franklin County: The Gereau Center for Applied Technology & Career Exploration, Franklin County High School • Giles County: Giles County Technology Center • Gloucester County: Achilles Elementary School • Hampton: Jane H. Bryan Elementary School and Tyler Elementary School • Hanover County: Hanover 4-H

• Orange County: Orange Elementary School • Page County: Luray Elementary School • Patrick County: Blue Ridge Elementary School • Prince William County: Fred M. Lynn Middle School • Richmond: J.B. Fisher Elementary School, Miles Jones Elementary School and Westover Hills Elementary School •R ockingham County: Mountain View Elementary School and Pleasant Valley Elementary School • Russell County: Honaker Elementary School

• Harrisonburg: Keister Elementary School • Henrico County: Dumbarton Elementary School and Holladay Elementary School • Henry County: Axton Elementary School and Career Academy • Isle of Wight County: Isle of Wight Academy, Isle of Wight 4-H and Carrollton Elementary School • Loudoun County: Emerick Elementary School, Horizon Elementary School and Stratford Landing Elementary School • Louisa County: Thomas Jefferson Elementary School • Mecklenburg County: Bluestone Middle School and Park View High School VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

•N orthampton County: Northampton County 4-H and Kiptopeke Elementary School •N orthumberland County: Northumberland County 4-H and Northumberland High School

• Fairfax County: Waynewood Elementary School

24

• Newport News: Oliver C. Greenwood Elementary School

• Scott County: Dungannon Intermediate School •S outhampton County: Nottoway Elementary School and Southampton Middle School • Spotsylvania County: Post Oak Middle School • Stafford County: Gayle Middle School • Staunton: Bessie Weller Elementary School • Suffolk: Nansemond Parkway School, Northern Shores Elementary School, Oakland Elementary School and Pioneer Elementary School • Virginia Beach: Kempsville Meadows Elementary School • Waynesboro: Kate Collins Middle School For more information, visit AgInTheClass.org.

vafb.com / NOVEMBER 2019

25

For Your Benefit

Reap benefits of membership with equipment savings • Z300 and Z500M Series zero-turn mowers – $100 • Z500R and Z700 Series zero-turn mowers – $150 • S240 lawn tractor – $100 • X300 Select Series – $100 • X500 Select Series – $150 • X700 Signature Series – $200 • T-Series utility vehicles – $200 • HPX Series utility vehicles – $350 • XUV crossover utility vehicles – $350 • RSX high-performance utility vehicles – $350 • WG, WH, WHP Series walk-behind mowers – $300 • 600 Series stand-on mowers – $400 • Z900 Series zero-turn mowers (gas and Z994 diesel) – $400 • Z900 Series zero-turn mowers (Z997 diesel) – $1,300 • 1500 Series front mowers – $1,300

No matter what kind of job you’re facing, your Farm Bureau membership can save you money on heavy equipment.

John Deere Rewards upgrade

Current Farm Bureau members in Virginia are eligible for a complimentary John Deere Rewards upgrade to Platinum 2 status. This unlocks the best loyalty rewards, including valuable equipment discounts. You’re also eligible for exclusive offers and special parts savings.

Sign up for John Deere Rewards using a valid Farm Bureau membership number and your ZIP code at JohnDeere.com/FarmBureau.

Equipment savings includes: • 1 and 2 Series tractors – $200 • 3 and 4 Series tractors – $200 • 5 Series tractors – $300

FARM BUREAU MEMBERS RECEIVE

500 BONUS CASH +$500 CONQUEST CASH $

*

*

FORD F-150

BUY NOW, SAVE NOW. FordFarmBureauAdvantage.com

* Farm Bureau Ford Bonus Cash $500 offer exclusively for active Farm Bureau members who are residents of the United States. Must be a Farm Bureau member for 30 consecutive days prior to purchase and take new retail delivery from dealer by January 2, 2020. Offer is valid through 1/2/2020 for the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2018/2019/2020 model year Ford vehicle. Program 37264: Additional $500 Conquest Bonus Cash offer exclusively for active Farm Bureau members valid for a purchase or lease from 7/2/19 through 9/30/19 of an eligible new 2018/2019/2020 model year Ford vehicle. Customer must have a registered 1995 or newer non-Ford/Lincoln/Mercury vehicle in their name for at least 30 days, to be eligible for this additional $500 incentive.

Not available on Shelby GT350®, Shelby® GT350R, Mustang BULLITT, Ford GT, Focus RS, and F-150 Raptor. This offer may not be used in conjunction with most other Ford Motor Company private incentives or AXZD-Plans. Some customer and purchase eligibility restrictions apply. Limit one Bonus Cash and Conquest offer per vehicle purchase or lease. Visit FordFarmBureauAdvantage.com or see your authorized Ford Dealer for qualifications and complete details.

Ford Dealers please claim #36816 for Farm Bureau Program and #37264 for additional $500 Conquest Bonus Cash in Smart VINCENT.

26

VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

24446_FD_FB_3.6875x4.8125_VA_Ad.indd 1

6/27/19 2:50 PM

• 1 600 Series wide-area mowers – $2,700 •G olf course mowers and specialty equipment – $500 to $3,700 •S kid steer loaders and compact track loaders – 17% off MSRP •C ompact excavators – 17% off MSRP •C ompact wheel loaders – 17% off MSRP Must be a valid member of Farm Bureau for 30 days and have a valid email address to be eligible for John Deere Rewards benefits. Farm Bureau memberships must be purchased by the member (Dealers cannot purchase of a member’s behalf).

Caterpillar offers savings up to $5,000, plus $250 credit on attachments

Caterpillar Inc. offers Farm Bureau members savings of up to $2,500 on select Cat machines, as well as a $250 credit on work tool attachments

For Your Benefit

purchased with a new Cat machine.

You can generate a certificate to present at your local dealership at vafb. com/benefits; have your membership number at hand.

Get the following savings on qualifying new Cat machines from participating dealers: • Large excavators, 349 model – Up to $5,000 • Small wheel loaders, 938 model – $2,750 • Medium wheel loaders, 950 model – $2,750 • Medium excavators, 320, 323, 325, 326, 329, 330, 335, 336 models – $2,500 • Medium dozers, D6T model – $2,500 • Small wheel loaders, 924, 926, 930 models – $2,250 • Medium dozers, D6NLGP, D6NXL models – $2,000 • Medium dozers, D5, D6K2,

D6K2LGP, D6K2XL models – $1,750 • Small wheel loaders, 918 model – $1,750 • Small dozers, D4 model – $1,500 • Skid steer loaders, 272 model – $1,250 • Compact track loaders, 279, 289, 299 model – $1,250 • Small dozers, D3 model – $1,250 • Backhoe loaders, 420, 430, 450 models – $1,250 • Compact wheel loaders, 908, 910, 914 models – $1,250 • Skid steer loaders, 262 model – $1,000 • Multi-terrain loaders – 277, 287, 297 models – $1,000 • Compact wheel loaders, 903, 906, 907 models – $1,000 • Telehandlers, TH514, TH1055, TH1255, TH642, TH943 models – $1,000 • Small hydraulic excavators, 311, 313,

314, 315, 316, 318 models – $1,000 •M ini hydraulic excavators, 308 model – $1,000 •S kid steer loaders, 226, 232, 236, 242, 246 models – $750 •C ompact track loaders, 259 model – $750 •B ackhoe loaders, 415, 416 models – $750 •C ompact track loaders, 249, 239, 247, 257 models – $500 •S kid steer loaders, 252 model – $500 •M ulti-terrain loaders, 247, 257 models – $500 •M ini hydraulic excavators, 300.9, 301.4, 301.5, 301.7, 301.8, 302.2, 302.4, 302.5, 302.7, 303, 303.5, 304, 304.5, 305, 305.5, 307, 307.5 models – $500 •T elehandlers, TH255, TH306, TH3510, TH357, TH406, TH407, TH408 models – $500

vafb.com / NOVEMBER 2019

27

Heart of the Home

Rib roasts evoke elegance Serve one at your next holiday gathering

T

he holidays are here! That usually means at least one special celebratory meal.

What more elegant way to entertain than to serve a classic rib roast?

This recipe from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association provides a French-inspired recipe that can be on the table in under four hours.

Beef Rib Roast with Red Wine Cherry Sauce

6- to 8-pound beef rib roast, bone-in (2 to 4 ribs), small end, backbone removed

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons minced shallots, divided

1 cup reduced-sodium beef broth, divided

2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme

½ cup dried cherries or cranberries

11/8 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper, divided 28

VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS

1 cup dry red wine 2 teaspoons cornstarch salt

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°. Combine 2 tablespoons shallots, 2 tablespoons thyme and 1 teaspoon pepper; and press evenly onto all surfaces of beef roast.

In a shallow roasting pan, place the roast fat-side-up. Insert an ovenproof meat thermometer so the tip is centered in the thickest part of the roast, not resting in fat or touching bone. Do not add water or cover. Roast for 2¼ to 2½ hours for medium rare; 2½ to 3 hours for medium.

While the roast is cooking, prepare the red wine cherry sauce. In a large nonstick skillet, warm, butter over medium heat until melted. Add remaining ¼ cup

COURTESY OF NATIONAL BEEF CHECKOFF

Bone-in roasts provide delicious flavor and a stunning presentation.

Heart of the Home

1 cup chardonnay wine, or apple juice 2 finely diced shallots

Remove the roast from oven and let rest 10 minutes (The cauliflower will continue cooking; it should be done about when the roast is finished resting).

6 tablespoons cold, unsalted butter, cut into 10 or 12 pieces additional salt and pepper

Slice the roast between the rib bones.

Serve drizzled with the pan juices, and with the cauliflower and sauce on the side.

1/3 cup heavy cream

COURTESY OF NATIONAL PORK BOARD

shallots and 1 teaspoon thyme; cook and stir 3-5 minutes or until shallots are tender and begin to turn golden. Add ¾ cup broth, wine and cherries to skillet; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook, uncovered, over medium heat 6-8 minutes or until reduced to 1½ cups.

Combine the remaining ¼ cup broth and cornstarch; whisk into the wine mixture.

Stir in the remaining 1/8 teaspoon pepper; bring to a boil. Cook 1 to 2 minutes or until sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.

Season with salt as desired.

Remove the roast when meat thermometer registers 135° for medium rare; 145° for medium. Transfer roast to a carving board; tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand 15-20 minutes. Carve the roast into slices; season with salt as desired. Serve with the sauce.

Beef rib roasts aren’t the only option A traditional pork rib roast or rack of pork is the equivalent of a standing beef rib roast, and a whole leg of lamb on the bone is an iconic Sunday dinner roast. Either of these make showstopping centerpieces for special dinners.

For your next celebratory meal, try the following recipes from the National Pork Board and the American Lamb Board.

Herbed Pork Ribeye Roast with Cauliflower INGREDIENTS

1 ribeye pork roast (8-rib, rack of pork) 4 teaspoons dried thyme ¼ cup fresh thyme 1½ teaspoons salt 1½ teaspoons pepper 8 cups cauliflower florets 4 shallots, sliced 3 slices bacon cut into ¼” slices

This roast’s flavor is elevated with a chardonnay butter sauce.

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375°. Arrange one oven rack in the lower third of the oven and one in the upper third.

In a small bowl, combine thyme, salt and pepper. Set 2 teaspoons of herb mixture aside, then sprinkle remaining mixture over all sides of the pork. In a shallow roasting pan, place pork fat-sideup and then place the pan on the lower rack in the oven; roast until the internal temperature reaches between 145° and 160°, 1½-1¾ hours.

About 30 minutes before the pork is done, in a large bowl combine cauliflower, sliced shallots and reserved herb mixture.

Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet, and scatter bacon on top. Place the baking sheet on the upper rack in the oven, and roast until cauliflower is tender and bacon is browned, about 40 minutes.

Meanwhile, make a chardonnay butter sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine wine, cream and diced shallots and bring to a boil.

Cook; stirring occasionally, until reduced to 2/3 cup, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat, and whisk in butter, 2 or 3 pieces at a time, waiting until the pieces are melted before adding more. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover to keep warm, set aside.

Buttermilk-braised Leg of Lamb INGREDIENTS

2 sliced medium onions 6 smashed cloves of garlic 2 sprigs fresh rosemary 1 bay leaf 2 tablespoons olive oil ½ teaspoon piment d’espellette or paprika 5-6-pound leg of lamb, bone-in 2 cups buttermilk 1 cup water 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 325°. In the bottom of an enamel-covered cast iron lidded pan or Dutch oven, place sliced onions, garlic, rosemary and bay leaf. Cover onions, garlic and herbs with olive oil and piment d’esplette or paprika. Place lamb on top of the onions, fatty side up. Cover with buttermilk, water, salt and pepper. Put on the lid, and bake for 3-4 hours until meat is fork-tender and juicy.

If liquid appears low, add a touch more water. Milk solids in buttermilk will curdle.

Skim them off the finished braise, if desired, although they are edible.

Allow the meat to rest in its juices for 15 minutes before slicing. Ladle a bit of onions and broth over sliced meat before serving.

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Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company The annual meeting of policyholders of Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company will be held at 8:45 a.m., Thursday, December 5, 2019, at Hilton Norfolk The Main, Norfolk, Virginia, for the following purposes: 1. To receive and act upon the reports of the officers of the Company.

2. To elect a Board of Directors, each to serve for the term of one year.

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Dated this 1st day of October, 2019.

Kathleen M. Early, Secretary

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