A PUBLICATION OF MISSISSIPPI FARM BUREAU FEDERATION VOL. 93, NO. 5 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 MSFB.ORG
ADVOCATING FOR
Agriculture
T H E
F A C E S
O F
F A R M
B U R E A U
A Devoted Farm Bureau Member
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ula Robinson, 96, joined Farm Bureau in 1952. She has been a devoted member ever since. In fact, Eula is the longest living member of Amite County Farm Bureau. When Eula joined Amite County Farm Bureau, there were 31 member-families. Today, the county has 2,100 memberfamilies. Dues when she joined were $5. Today’s dues are $30. Eula hasn’t missed an annual meeting in all of those years. “I just like the people and enjoy being around them,” she said. “I appreciate the people of Amite County Farm Bureau.” Eula and her husband, William, who passed away in 2011, farmed their whole lives until he became too old to work. They grew everything from vegetables, cotton and corn to peanuts and cucumbers. Amite County was a big row crop county back in those days. The county also boasted 435 dairies. Today, only two dairies remain in operation. “I have seen a lot of changes in Farm Bureau and agriculture in my lifetime,” Eula said. Eula worked beside her husband on the farm. Mules and horses were used for farm work until the first tractors came out. The Robinsons brought their cotton to the local cotton
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gin, which is now a restaurant. They sold their vegetables at the local farmers market. They brought peas and butterbeans and okra. Eula and William had 11 children. She has outlived her husband and five of their children. She says all of the children turned out to be fine people. Eula is a member of Galilee Baptist Church, where she has taught Sunday school and Bible school her whole life. “I study the Bible every day,” she said. Eula says she has never worn eyeglasses or a hearing aid. (She admits she needs a hearing aid but says she doesn’t enjoy wearing one.) She says the only surgery she has ever had was back surgery following a car accident. She says she has no arthritis and no diabetes. Retired agency manager Mike Bridwell notes it is because of members like Eula Robinson that Amite County Farm Bureau has excelled through the years. He appreciates her contribution to the overall program and says he has never seen anything but a smile on her face. Eula smiled. “I try to love everybody,” she said. FB MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY
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C O N T E N T S VOLUME 93 NUMBER 5 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017
FEATURES
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Mississippi Farm Country (ISSN 1529-9600) magazine is published bimonthly by the Mississippi Farm Bureau® Federation. Farm Bureau members receive this publication as part of their membership benefit. Periodicals postage is paid at Jackson, MS and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to P.O. Box 1972, Jackson, MS 39215 EDITORIAL AND BUSINESS OFFICES 6311 Ridgewood Road, Jackson, MS 39211 601-977-4153 EDITOR — Glynda Phillips ADVERTISING Angela Ellis 1-800-227-8244 ext. 4242 aellis@msfb.org
FARM FACTS Poultry producer and industry advocate Kirby Mauldin of Jones County talks about his farming operation. Come with us as we learn more.
FARM BUREAU OFFICERS President – Mike McCormick Vice President (North) – Donald Gant Vice President (Central) – Ted Kendall IV Vice President (South) – Reggie Magee Treasurer – Billy Davis Corporate Secretary – Kent Bloodworth FARM BUREAU DIRECTORS Carla Taylor, Prentiss Mike Graves, Tippah Jeff Hollowell, Lafayette Preston Arrington, Sunflower Gabriela Brasher, Tallahatchie Neal Huskison, Pontotoc Scott O’Brian, Clay Joe Huerkamp, Noxubee David Hayward, Grenada James Rasberry, Attala William Jones, Lauderdale Max Anderson, Newton James R. Ford, Smith Josh Miller, Sharkey Tammy Layton, Simpson Noble Guedon, Adams Pud Stringer, Marion Larry Jefcoat, Jones Clayton Lawrence Jr., George Perry Meyers, Jackson Betty Mills, Montgomery Luke Andrews, Bolivar
TEACHER OF THE YEAR Angela Pilcher of Center Hill High School in Olive Branch is the 2017 Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Teacher of the Year. Angel not only uses classroom materials, she includes indoor and outdoor activities to teach her students about agriculture.
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RECIPES
FARM BUREAU ACTIVITIES
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Photo coverage of summer Farm Bureau activities can be found throughout this issue. Enjoy!
In each issue, we feature recipes from “Country Cooking, Vol. V.” Sales of this cookbook generate funds for the Ag in the Classroom program. Cookbooks are available at most county offices.
HONORARY VICE PRESIDENT Louis J. Breaux III Material in this publication is based on what the editor believes to be reliable information. Neither Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation nor those individuals or organizations contributing to the MFBF publication assume any liability for errors that might go undetected in the publication — this includes statements in articles or advertisements that could lead to erroneous personal or business management decisions. FARM BUREAU,® FB® and all Farm Bureau logos used in this magazine are registered service marks owned by the American Farm Bureau Federation. They may not be used in any commercial manner without the prior written consent of the American Farm Bureau Federation.
DEPARTMENTS 6 8 9 18
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE NATIONAL AFFAIRS REPORT HUNTER’S HARVEST PROGRAM
ABOUT THE COVER Cala Tabb of Eupora was recently named the 2017 America’s Farmers Mom of the Year for the Southeast Region. Read about Cala inside this issue.
NOTES FROM THE FIELD MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY
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P R E S I D E N T’S
M E S S A G E
Excellence is the Watchword I hope when future generations look back on my time in office, my legacy as your president will be one of excellence. I value a strong sense of teamwork, but I truly believe that the “will to excel,” as football legend Vince Lombardi so ably put it, is the single most important attribute of any successful organization. Mike McCormick Going that extra mile never President, Mississippi fails to lead to positive growth Farm Bureau Federation and change. I’d like to brag for a moment. At this moment in time, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) has the best group of volunteer leaders and staff it has ever enjoyed. This is due in large part to the changes we initiated three years ago. Change can be uncomfortable if you have grown used to doing things a certain way; however, by opening ourselves to new ideas then pushing ourselves to excel with those ideas, our organization has begun to enjoy some pretty amazing accomplishments. One great example is our reinstated MFBF Summer Commodity Conference held in June. We definitely dared to think outside the box with this event. Those who attended discovered not only informative tours and excellent speakers but an emphasis on family activities. The two-day conference was held at The Mill at Mississippi State University (MSU) in Starkville, and I want to thank the university, and especially MSU President Dr. Mark Keenum, for helping us make it happen. We could not have done this without you. I’d also like to thank American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall for his singular contribution to our conference activities. Zippy, who spent most of the week with Mississippi Farm Bureau volunteer leaders and staff, was very accessible, offered excellent information about national issues of concern to Farm Bureau, and was just an exceptional addition to our program. Thank you, Zippy, for all you do for all of us. The response to the 2017 MFBF Summer Commodity Conference has been very positive, and I give our volunteer leaders and staff all the glory. The Farm Families of Mississippi Ag Promotion Campaign is another area that is upping its game this year. 6
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The campaign’s fundraising dinner is usually held at state convention, but this year’s event is set for October 24 and will feature Mississippi water colorist Wyatt Waters and Mississippi restaurateur, chef and author Robert St. John. St. John will cook for those in attendance, and Waters will complete a work of art that will be auctioned off at the dinner. More details will be provided as the time for this event draws closer. You may also contact Greg Gibson at (601) 977-4154. The materials and special events generated by all of our Federation programs have been exceptional in 2017, including the Young Farmers & Ranchers, Women’s/Ag in the Classroom, Safety, Training, Member Benefits, Regional Managers/Commodity, Communications and Public Policy programs. Our national affairs coordinator is making a real difference in the way our organization is
Jasper County Farm Bureau provided dinner following a Mississippi Farm Tour held before our 2017 MFBF Summer Commodity Conference. A special thanks to Jasper County and to all of the county Farm Bureaus, farmers, agriculture businesses, volunteer leaders and staff members who made this tour a very successful event. Pictured are Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation President Mike McCormick, Jasper County Farm Bureau President Tommy Bishop and American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall.
perceived nationally. Our insurance program is providing excellent service to Farm Bureau members around the state. As I travel the state and nation, I hear the accolades, and I feel a sense of deep pride. Farm Bureau’s quest for excellence has enabled us to stretch and grow in new and powerful ways, and we are definitely reaping the benefits. I appreciate your strong sense of teamwork in support of our collective “will to excel” more than you will ever know. Excellence has definitely become our watchword in every good sense of the word. As always, thanks for all you do for Farm Bureau. FB SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017
Dr. Cary W. “Bill� Herndon Jr. and Dr. Glover Triplett were honored during 2017 Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Summer Commodity Conference activities in Starkville. Upon his retirement as associate vice president for the Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University, Dr. Herndon was recognized for his many years of support
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and friendship to Farm Bureau and his service to Mississippi agriculture. Dr. Triplett was recognized for his distinguished work in pioneering the concept of no-till farming, which has revolutionized agriculture and benefited all farmers. Pictured with Herndon, left, and Triplett are MFBF President Mike McCormick and American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall.
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NATIONAL AFFAIRS REPORT ★
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
BY JUSTIN FERGUSON Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation National Affairs Coordinator & Commodity Coordinator for Major Row Crops
Farm Bill: Vital to the Mississippi Economy
Agriculture is Mississippi’s No. 1 industry. Each year, Mississippi ment. These development programs include assistance for expanding farms add about $7.6 billion to the state’s economy and employ and improving broadband and telecommunications for rural hospitals, almost one-third of the state’s workforce. The farm economy is water and wastewater systems for small towns, electricity and construcintertwined with the overall Mississippi economy in many ways. tion of community facilities like fire stations and libraries. As Congress begins crafting a new five-year farm bill soon, many Land Conservation & Preservation: The farm bill provides Mississippians simply don’t realize the impact the farm bill has on funding for conservation programs to help farmers and ranchers our farms, a large portion of our population and many of our rural keep land in production while improving the condition of natucommunities. The reality is that the farm bill touches everyone in ral resources. From 2009 to 2015, USDA invested $997 million Mississippi in numerous ways. It is targeted to to conserve and protect Mississippi’s land, farmers and ranchers, used to support infrawater and air resources. In 2015, Mississippi structure and economic development in rural received conservation assistance, including communities, incentivizes maintenance of $43.7 million in Environmental Quality good conservation practices, and helps proIncentive Program payments, to provide vide access to food for those less fortunate and financial and technical assistance to agribreakfasts and lunches for schoolchildren. cultural producers to plan and implement Food & Nutrition Programs: Food and conservation practices that improve their nutrition programs account for roughly 80 land; $33.2 million in Conservation Stewpercent of total farm bill spending. Missisardship Program payments that support sippi has many low-income families. Fortu- THE REALITY IS THAT THE FARM BILL ongoing stewardship of private agricultural nately, the farm bill provides opportunities TOUCHES EVERYONE IN MISSISSIPPI lands by providing payments and technical IN NUMEROUS WAYS. for better health for these citizens. Just in assistance for maintaining and enhancing 2016 alone, 34,669,748 breakfasts were served to 205,115 chil- natural resources; and $45 million to enroll 724,502 acres in the dren through the school breakfast program; 64,336,763 lunches Conservation Reserve Program to remove environmentally sensiwere served to 381,642 children through the school lunch program; tive land from agricultural production and plant species that will 84,867 people participated in the Women, Infants and Children improve environmental health and quality of the soil. Program; and 549,951 people were assisted by the Supplemental Safety Net Programs for Farmers & Ranchers: Food producNutrition Assistance Program. The farm bill provides a major food tion is risky business. Keeping our agricultural sector sustainable is safety net for our state’s less fortunate. Additionally, the farm bill one of the most important functions of farm program legislation. supports and encourages the production of fresh fruits and vegeta- The farm bill provides a safety net to our state’s farmers and ranchers bles. Mississippi received $2.3 million from the Farm Bill Specialty during difficult times. From 2009 to 2015, USDA invested more Crop Block Grant Program to use on 94 projects to increase com- than $6.5 billion in Mississippi for programs that provide access to petitiveness and profitability of producers from 2008 to 2015. In credit, support a strong farm safety net and promote new markets 2015, Mississippi received $2.7 million to fund the Fresh Fruit & for farm and ranch products. Safety net programs for farmers and Vegetable Program to be used in 131 elementary schools, and USDA ranchers only account for roughly 15% of overall farm program helps promote farmers markets through promotion programs and spending. However, these federal funds are not only a safety net to extra funding for the purchase of fruits and vegetables at Missis- the local farm, but a safety net to the local economy. sippi’s 83 farmers markets. In summary, the farm bill is not only important to farmers and Infrastructure & Rural Development: The farm bill helps support ranchers in the state, but vital to much of our population, most of economic development and promotes infrastructure for rural areas of our small towns and communities, and the overall economy of Misthe state. From 2009 to 2015, USDA invested $3.2 billion to support sissippi. As we begin discussions on the 2018 Farm Bill, I hope you local communities, create jobs and promote economic opportunity for will thank the members of the Mississippi Congressional Delegathose who live, work and raise their families in rural Mississippi. From tion for their past support of the farm bill. 2009 to 2015, USDA invested $1.9 billion in infrastructure developA vote for the farm bill is a vote for all of Mississippi. FB 8
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unter’s Harv H i p p i s s i s est s i M B Y B R A D YO U N G, E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R, M I S S I S S I P P I W I L D L I F E F E D E R AT I O N
ississippi’s deer population is doing quite well. Just ask anyone who has driven down the Natchez Trace at dusk or has tried to plant a garden next to a wooded area if there are any deer in Mississippi, and I bet you’ll get an earful. Mississippi’s deer population is currently estimated to be somewhere around 1.6 million animals, with deer occurring in every county of the state. White-tailed deer hunting is big business in Mississippi, and we are fortunate to have such quality habitat and liberal bag limits that we can enjoy a sport that is such a part of our outdoor heritage. Unfortunately, in some areas of the state, the population growth of our deer herd is surpassing the habitat’s capacity for supporting a healthy, stable population. It is estimated that deer hunters harvest around 250,000 deer each year. A quick comparison between the overall population and harvest numbers makes it obvious that we could be doing more. An overpopulation of deer in a given area can lead to a degradation of habitat resulting in poor nutrition and increased susceptibility to disease outbreaks. Too many deer on the landscape can also lead to depredation of agricultural crops and increased deer-vehicle collisions. The Mississippi Wildlife Federation’s Hunter’s Harvest program is working to promote sound management of our state’s deer population and provide for those who are less fortunate at the same time. It is estimated that almost 400,000 Mississippians live below the federal poverty line, including over Over the past two years, Hunter’s Harvest has provided over 23,000 93,000 children. pounds of ground venison to food Each year, over charities throughout Mississippi. 51,000 people receive emergency food to feed themselves and their families. Protein is a vital component of our diets and especially so for children who depend on protein for proper growth and development. Sadly, when money is tight, protein sources such as beef and poultry are often the first things to be removed from the shopping list. Hunter’s Harvest provides a means to help fill that gap. Hunter’s Harvest works with deer processors throughout Mississippi who have agreed to accept donated deer and proSEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017
cess them into ground venison at a reduced cost. The processing costs are paid by the Mississippi Wildlife Federation, or the hunters can choose to pay the costs themselves, helping the program dollars go further. Hunters can also choose to “pitch in a pound” by donating a portion of their processed order. The ground venison is packaged and stored in bags and freezers provided by the program until a scheduled pickup by a local food charity designated by the Mississippi Food Network. The venison is then distributed to soup
kitchens, food pantries and other food charities in the local area, providing a source of lean, healthy protein for Mississippi families. Over the past two years, Hunter’s Harvest has provided over 23,000 pounds of ground venison to food charities throughout Mississippi. Considering that one pound of venison provides enough protein for four individual meals, these donations have resulted in over 92,000 meals for Mississippians who needed them most. There is no limit to the good this program can do if we can just get more people involved. Sportsmen have shown their willingness to donate to the program, but we need to spread the word. If you like to deer hunt, get the other members of your club or lease involved by organizing Hunter’s Harvest days, where the day’s harvest is donated to the program. We also need processors who are willing to participate in the program, so talk with your favorite processor about partnering with us to make a difference in their community. Of course, funding is always needed to pay processing costs, and we have been very fortunate to receive support from organizations like Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation and Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company. By working together, Mississippi sportsmen can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our friends and neighbors who are not as fortunate. For more information about the Hunter’s Harvest program, or to find a participating deer processor in your area, visit the Mississippi Wildlife Federation website at www.mswildlife.org. FB
www.mswildlife.org
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“My mama worked hard on a farm, and all of us children worked, too. I drove a tractor when we set potatoes. My grandmother and my husband’s mother were teachers, but they also worked very hard on the farm.” — CALA TABB
Southeast Farm Mom of the Year B Y G LY N D A P H I L L I P S
Cala Tabb of Eupora was recently named the 2017 America’s voicemail messages, she was mystified. Farmers Mom of the Year for the Southeast Region, a contest spon“I couldn’t figure out why she was trying to get in touch with sored by Monsanto Company. It is the first time a Mississippi Farm me. When I finally returned her calls, she explained I had been Bureau Federation leader has been so honored. Cala was cited for nominated by my husband and had received the honor,” she said. her role on her family’s farm, her advocacy for agriculture, her ded- “I was shocked.” ication to her family and her activities in her community and the As the winner from her region, Cala was invited to tour Monagriculture industry. santo’s headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri. You may remember that Cala and her “I was stunned by all of the fantastic husband, William, were Farm Bureau’s research they are doing there,” she said. “I state and national Young Farmers & also got to meet farm moms from Iowa, Ranchers (YF&R) Achievement Award Nebraska, Utah and Indiana. We were surrecipients two years ago. They are memprised by how much alike we are. It was bers of the State YF&R Committee, and like we had known each other forever.” Cala is her county’s women’s vice chair. Cala says she is proud to be recogThe Tabbs farm in Eupora, and Cala nized by Monsanto as an outstanding farm also teaches reading and social studies to mom. She feels she is carrying on a legacy fifth-graders at Eupora Elementary School. handed down to her by her mother and She has a total of 90 students daily (about grandmother. 20 students at a time). “My mama worked hard on a farm, and “Because my husband and I are volall of us children worked, too,” Cala said. unteer leaders, we receive a lot of mate(Photo taken in 2015.) “I drove a tractor when we set potatoes. My rials from Farm Bureau. Since we believe grandmother and my husband’s mother “I LOVE SEEING MY KIDS GROW UP ON A that educating others about agriculture is were teachers, but they also worked very FARM, AND I FEEL PRIVILEGED TO HAVE important, I share some of the materials hard on the farm. GROWN UP ON A FARM IN VARDAMAN, with my students,” she said. “For example, “I love seeing my kids grow up on a WHERE PRETTY MUCH EVERYBODY IN I usually have fact cards about the comfarm, and I feel privileged to have grown SCHOOL HAD PARENTS WHO EITHER modity of the month, which I supplement up on a farm in Vardaman, where pretty FARMED OR WORKED FOR FARMERS.” with information I get from the internet much everybody in school had parents — CALA TABB and other sources. who either farmed or worked for farmers. “We go over the facts, but more than just talking about the com- Our four children are an important part of the farm, and teaching modities, I challenge my students to do their own research and them the importance of farming is important to us. Teaching school report back to me,” Cala said. “We talk about some of the oppor- kids, our next generation of decision makers, is equally crucial.” tunities and concerns in farming, and I don’t push my ideas on William and Cala farm cotton, soybeans, corn, wheat and peathem. I let them listen to different sides of an issue and make good nuts. They also grow produce, but the amount of produce they educated decisions about how they feel. It blows my mind when I grow varies from year to year. They actively market their produce discover that kids who see farms every day don’t know a lot of the to local consumers and to local grocery stores and restaurants. They stuff we are talking about.” also offer custom harvesting and land clearing to area farmers and Cala says she is always looking for grants to help her teach agri- sell grain for specialty wildlife feed to area hunters. culture in her classroom, and she happened to see the farm mom The Tabbs host field trips to their farm for local vo-tech kids. contest online. They allow Mississippi State University to plant test plots and host “My husband and I talked about it in passing, and my daughter on-farm field days to better educate themselves and other area heard. She nominated me that year (with my help), and my husband farmers. nominated me the next year. I didn’t know about his nomination.” William and Cala were also finalists in the 2016 #RootedinAgWhen a woman from Monsanto began calling and leaving Cala riculture contest. FB SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017
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“I am giving them the knowledge they need to grow their own food, and I am teaching them to appreciate agriculture.” — Angel Pilcher
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Teachers who include agriculture in their classroom activities are encouraging students to support our nation’s farmers. Many of these enterprising men and women not only use written and visual materials but also hands-on activities (often outdoors) that engage the senses and allow youths to experience what they are reading about. Those of us involved in the ag industry can’t do enough to support their efforts. Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation’s (MFBF) 2017 Teacher of the Year Angel Pilcher of Center Hill High School in Olive Branch puts a lot of thought and effort into teaching her students about agriculture. Angel teaches high school courses, including “Nutrition/Wellness and Resource Management,” and she says her students can’t wait to find out what they will be doing each day. Yes, the kids have classroom lessons, where they learn about nutrition, food preparation, insurance, taxes and how to manage their money, but they also get lots of practical hands-on experience with growing their own food. Students tend raised beds of vegetables and herbs in the outside gardens near the classroom. They gather eggs from chickens in an outdoor coop and raise seedlings in a small outdoor greenhouse. They hatch guineas, ducks and chicks in indoor incubators then move them to brooding cages. They also have an indoor aquaponics tank with fish, where they grow herbs and vegetable plants. “Not only are these activities a great way to teach students how to get their vitamins and minerals from the food they eat, they are a wonderful way to get them outdoors, moving around in the fresh air.” Angel said. “I am giving them the knowledge they need to grow their own food, and I am teaching them to appreciate agriculture. Plus, those students who don’t excel as well in the traditional classroom setting are motivated by an increased sense of accomplishment when excelling with these hands-on projects.” Angel’s students grow a variety of vegetables, herbs, berries and flowers. They make pickles from the cucumbers and jam from the strawberries. They learn to freeze or can a portion of the vegetables for later use in the cooking labs. This fall, Angel’s students will make peanut butter from the peanuts they are growing for the first time this year. The students use the eggs, fruits and vegetables they have grown and gathered to cook with in the cooking labs. Angel’s classroom has multiple kitchens, and on any given day, enticing aromas waft
down the hall from behind her classroom door. As an added bonus to their gardening efforts, the plants the kids grow draw pollinators, so students learn about the pollination process. Students also learn about composting and vermicomposting, where worms are used to compost waste materials into rich soil. In addition, Angel teaches her kids how to weave chair seats using natural fibers and how to knit hats and scarves with cotton yarn. An after-school club has grown out of Angel’s ag in the classroom efforts. Future plans for Angel and her students include expansion and fencing of the gardens, the addition of a duck house and pool, and the construction of a covered outdoor classroom area. They are also in the process of creating a rabbit hutch designed to best collect the manure from the rabbits for the gardens. One day soon, Angel hopes to see a portion of land behind the school tilled for field crops like cotton, corn, soybeans and wheat. She wants her students to become familiar with important row crops grown by Mississippi farmers. Angel has earned six grants from different sources to use in teaching agriculture to her students. At the time of her interview, she was eagerly waiting to hear if she had received another grant from yet another source that will allow her to build a larger greenhouse. “I have 75 kids a day for 94 minutes at a time.” she said. “I try to use my time in the most productive way possible. We consider challenges and opportunities within the farming industry, and my students also learn about careers they might not have known about otherwise in the agriculture and food service sectors.” Angel says being selected Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Teacher of the Year was a surprise and a huge honor. She says Farm Bureau is a great resource, and the volunteer leaders are outstanding. “I have met many wonderful people and plan to meet many more,” she said. For more information about the Teacher of the Year program, contact Women’s Programs/Ag in the Classroom Coordinator Clara Bilbo at (601) 977-4245. FB
Angel was also named Teacher of the Month by Center Hill High School, and her gardens were featured in Connections Magazine. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017
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FarmFacts: S T R A I G H T F R O M A M I S S I S S I P P I FA R M E R
A Jones County Poultry Farmer by Kirby Mauldin
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s a teen, I never dreamed that I would become a fifth-generation Jones County farmer. My experiences began on the family farm, which was begun in earnest in the late 1940s by my grandfather after purchasing a registered bull, as people in the Jones County area were shifting from row cropping to cattle. My family’s history in farming for a profit came when my grandfather purchased a registered Hereford bull to improve the genetics of the grade cows. This was the first registered bull in the community, and farmers from miles around would bring their milk cows to be bred to the registered bull. With a start of about 10 cows and one bull, the family farm began to grow, as my father and uncle helped my grandfather with various farming chores. As years passed and my grandfather aged, my dad and uncle managed
the cattle, and the farm became known as “Mauldin Farms,” focusing on registered Polled Hereford cattle. As a child and teen, I worked on the farm bush hogging, hauling hay, tending to cattle and various other farm chores. As the head of cattle increased, we began cleaning out the neighbors’ chicken houses for the free fertilizer to help cut farm costs. This operation helped the poultry farmer by getting rid of used litter and cleaning out the farm before a new batch of chickens arrived, and it greatly assisted my family by decreasing fertilizer costs. This was my first experience with chicken houses and the poultry industry. Upon graduating from West Jones High School in 1990, I enrolled at Jones County Junior College majoring in poultry science. The poultry industry was emerging as the primary commodity in my area. Before leaving for college, between my sophomore and junior years,
I worked as an intern in the hatchery at Wayne Farms in Laurel, which added to my knowledge and interest in the poultry industry. In 1992, I continued my education at Mississippi State University and furthered my studies in the poultry industry. This was also the year my family invested in their own broiler operation, consisting of nine broiler houses. While attending Mississippi State, I continued working on the farm with my family on weekends, summers and holidays. Through these work experiences, I began to realize my love for being outdoors and the fulfillment of being with my dad, brother, uncle and cousin. In 1993, my family expanded the poultry farm by adding three more broiler houses. Graduating from Mississippi State University in May 1994, I took a position
“As a teen, I never dreamed that I would become a fifth-generation Jones County farmer.” — Kirby Mauldin with B. C. Rogers Poultry in Morton as a service tech. I married my wife, Sabrina, in July of 1994, and lived and worked in Newton and Scott counties, servicing chickens for three years. During this time, my older brother built a four-house broiler farm, which gave my family a total of 16 chicken houses. After seeing my brother follow in my family’s footsteps and be at home in Jones County, I realized that I really wanted to be selfemployed and at home with my family to support my efforts. I was confident that through my experiences gained from working on both the family cattle and chicken farm and at B. C. Rogers, I could manage my own farm. In 1997, I moved back to Jones SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017
County and bought an old three-house broiler farm. My wife and I had our first daughter, and I diligently set out to be a successful farmer. In 2001, I closed the doors on the old farm, was blessed with a second daughter, and built a modern four-house broiler farm. In 2007, Jon Kilgore recommended me to the Jones County Farm Bureau Board of Directors and as a district Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award contestant. Since that time, I have served on various Farm Bureau committees, advocating for the poultry farmer. I currently serve as chair of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Poultry Commodity Advisory Committee, which allows me the opportunity to
be a voice in agriculture and promote the Mississippi poultry farmer. Today, I operate my farm and oversee my father’s poultry farm. I continue to draw from my experiences on the family farm, my education, past work experiences and the relationship made with Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation to promote the family farmer and prosper in the poultry business. FB
The Farm Families of Mississippi Agriculture Promotion Campaign was created to educate the public about the agriculture industry. For more information, contact Greg Gibson at (601) 977-4154. MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY
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Cornbread Taco Bake
Country-Fried Catfish
Chocolate Chess Pie
1 lb. ground beef 1 pkg. taco seasoning ½ c. water 1 (12-oz.) can whole kernel corn, drained ½ c. chopped green pepper 1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce 1 (8-oz.) pkg. corn muffin mix 1 (2.8-oz.) can French fried onion rings ⅓ c. shredded sharp cheese
2 eggs Dash Worcestershire sauce Dash hot sauce 2 ½ c. milk 1 c. yellow cornmeal ⅓ c. all-purpose flour 4 catfish fillets Vegetable oil for frying
1½ c. sugar ¼ c. butter, melted 1/8 tsp. salt 1 tsp. vanilla 1 (9-inch) pie crust Chocolate curls to garnish 3 T. cocoa 2 lg. eggs, beaten ¾ c. evaporated milk ¾ c. pecans, chopped 1 c. whipped cream, whipped with ¼ c. sugar
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Brown beef and drain. Stir in taco seasoning, water, corn, pepper and tomato sauce. Pour into 2-qt. casserole. In a bowl, mix corn muffin mix according to package directions. Stir in ½ can onions. Spoon corn muffin mix around outer edge of casserole. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Take out of oven and sprinkle cheese and remaining onions on the corn muffin topping. Bake 2 or 3 minutes more. Sandra Waide Clay County
Beat eggs, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce and milk in a shallow dish. Mix cornmeal and flour in another shallow dish. Dip fillets in milk mixture; dredge in cornmeal mixture. Set aside on wax paper-lined baking dish. Fill a large, deep skillet half full with oil and heat to 350 degrees on a deep-fry thermometer. Add fillets, two at a time, to hot oil and fry 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve. Wanda Hill Humphreys County
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together sugar, cocoa and butter. Stir together well. Add eggs and beat with mixer for several minutes. Add salt, milk and vanilla. Stir in pecans. Pour filling into pie crust. Bake for 35-45 minutes. Serve warm or cold with whipped cream and chocolate curls as a garnish. Serves 6-8. Peggy McKey Hinds County COUNTRY COOKING, VOLUME V: These recipes are from “Country Cooking, Volume V,” available at most county offices. The cost is $20. If you order a cookbook from the state office, you will pay $20 plus postage. For more information, contact Pam Jones at (601) 977-4854.
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Taylor McNair Serves As Summer Intern Taylor McNair served as the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Summer Intern for 2017. Taylor is a senior agribusiness major at Mississippi State University (MSU), concentrating in ag policy and law. She grew up in Learned in Hinds County as a third-generation farmer/rancher on her family’s cattle and row crop operation, where they raise beef, corn, soybeans and wheat. Outside of her school and farming life, Taylor attributes her agricultural involvement to showing livestock through 4-H and participating in rodeo through barrel racing. Taylor has been crowned Miss Dixie National and Miss Rodeo of the Mid-South. Upon graduating from MSU, Taylor plans to attend law school and focus on agricultural and food law. Taylor is the daughter of Will and Cindy McNair of Hinds County. FB
CALENDAR of EVENTS SEPT. 15 Delta Rice Tasting Luncheon Walter Sillers Building Delta State University, Cleveland OCT. 4-15
Mississippi State Fair Mississippi Fairgrounds, Jackson
NOV. 9 State Resolutions Meeting Jackson NOV. 13-15
Washington D.C. Member Fly-In
NOV. 14-17
YF&R Washington D.C. Fly-In
DEC. 1-4 MFBF Annual Membership Meeting Jackson JAN. 5-10 AFBF Annual Convention Nashville, TN SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017
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NOTES FROM THE FIELD ★
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
BY ANDY BROWN
Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Region 1 Regional Manager
Defense Wins Championships September and October mean one thing in Mississippi and the rest of “SEC Country”… football. If you were to ask most of the coaches of these teams what it would take to win the championship this year, many would first point to the need to stop the other team from scoring. The dynasty of Alabama, just across the state line, often boasts the top defense in the country, the first pick in the NFL draft in 2017 was a defenseman, and many more examples have come out of Mississippi of young men being paid millions of dollars to tackle the other team. Fall also means the start of another harvest for our hardworking farmers collecting their crop. These farmers hope to score a touchdown with high yields and good market prices, but they, too, have been focused on defense. Since March, row crop farmers have been defending their crop from weather, weeds, insects and disease. Livestock producers defend from predators, disease, sickness and Mother Nature, as well. Like football teams, this takes many hours of hard work through study and practice. At Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF), we take it as our mission to help our farmers, ranchers and Farm Bureau members to defend not only their commodity but also the lifestyle of agriculture. I had the pleasure of joining our State Women’s Leadership Committee and fellow Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation staff this summer for their annual Ag in the Classroom workshop in Hernando. A second workshop was held earlier in Hattiesburg. Through this program, dozens of teachers received continuing education units and free materials to take back and help educate their students in the next school year. Part of this program was a tour of
area farms to learn, feel and experience agriculture for themselves. Former State Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee members and current DeSoto County Farm Bureau board members Jim Sayle and Patrick Swindoll did a great job explaining the science behind what they do. These men described scenarios where math, geometry and other areas of their education have helped them advance in their career, along with other useful facts for these educators to use in their classrooms. Once their presentations were over, the questions that followed were not about curriculum or lesson plans. Rather, these teachers were more interested in knowing about what was going into their food, what life was like on the farm and what farmers were doing to the environment. Luckily, these two men, along with the ladies of the State Women’s Leadership Committee, began to do what they always do and have been trained to do by being involved in our programs: defend. Defend the science, defend their livelihoods and defend that they are honest people who would not subject their own families to anything harmful (let alone someone else’s family). This is just one of many examples where Farm Bureau works toward being what we hope is a dynasty of defense. MFBF defends farmers through policy. We defend farmers and consumers from misinformation and slander. We defend this industry and lifestyle from outside interest groups looking to impart their beliefs into our state. However, most importantly, we defend each individual member of this organization by letting their voice be heard through a collective group supporting the same mission via grassroots development. FB
Area teachers looked, listened and learned as former State Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee members and current DeSoto County Farm Bureau board members Jim Sayle and Patrick Swindoll did a great job explaining the science behind what they do on their farms. 18
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2017 AITC Workshops
Teachers participated in two-day Ag in the Classroom Teacher/Volunteer Workshops held in June in Hattiesburg and Hernando. The workshops, coordinated by the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Women’s Programs, are designed to give teachers ideas about how to incorporate agriculture into their classroom activities. The first
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day involved materials and hands-on activities, and the second day included tours of Forrest County Agricultural High School in Brooklyn and the Sayle and Swindoll row crop farms in DeSoto County. See tour photos on the adjoining page. Teachers are pictured here learning about container gardening and the dairy industry. FB
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District 7 Women’s Chair B Y G LY N D A P H I L L I P S
Renee Keith of Purvis is our new District 7 women’s chair. She began her first term of service last December, following the retirement of longtime district chair Carolyn Turner of Ellisville. Renee says she enjoys working with the State Women’s Leadership Committee, which is made up of women representing the eight Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation districts around the state. “The other district chairs, plus State Women’s Chair Betty Mills and State Women’s Vice Chair Shelby Williams, have been very welcoming and understanding of my questions,” she said. “I’m excited about our projects, and I look forward to the Ag in the Classroom (AITC) Teacher/Volunteer Workshops this summer.” The AITC workshop held in Hattiesburg featured a container gardening program presented by Renee and veteran container gardener John Monroe, who serves as a district administrator with the Lamar County Soil and Water Conservation Service. Renee is also well versed in all things gardening. She and her husband, Mike, own a business called Water Flow Productions, Inc., which they began in 1995. It consists of residential and commercial lawn care maintenance and landscape services plus two garden center/feed stores. “Mike takes care of the grounds of several large area businesses,” Renee said. “He has excellent crews working with him. We also own garden center/feed stores in Purvis and Sumrall, and we’re planning to open a third store soon. You will find me at these stores most days when I don’t have other commitments. We have been blessed. Our business grows every year.” The landscape services include everything from landscape design, mowing and lawn irrigation to patios, sidewalks and water gardens. The garden center sells bedding plants, trees and shrubs, fountains, birdbaths, statuary, fencing and outdoor grills. Farmers will find Nutrena and Purina feed, animal health care products and tack in the feed store. “In this area of the state, we couldn’t have a garden center on its own, so that’s why our business is so diversified. There’s a demand for our bedding plants and garden products, and there’s a real need for a store that serves as a resource for farmers. This is definitely an ag area,” she said. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017
“We have a lot of horse people, and our 4-H is one of the largest in the state.” “All of this was my dream, but I couldn’t do it without her. We work together well as a team,” Mike said. “Looking back, we can see that Renee’s past work experiences managing personnel and keeping books were leading us here.” The Keiths also farm. They have sheep, goats and cattle. The sheep and goats are raised for 4-H activities. The Keiths run beef cattle and provide calves for 4-H break-away roping activities. The farm has hens, which provide the Keiths with way more eggs than they need, so they give them away to other people in the community. Mike and Renee were encouraged to become active in their county Farm Bureau by the late D. P. O’Quinn and his wife, Mary Katherine, longtime Farm Bureau leaders. Mike grew up just down the road from the O’Quinns and has known the family his whole life. He now serves as president of Lamar County Farm Bureau. In addition to her responsibilities as a district women’s chair, Renee serves as her county’s women’s chair. Renee and Mike are not only active in Farm Bureau, they participate in other agricultural organizations, as well as in church and community activities. They very generously give of their time and energy to help others. The Keiths are members of Clear Branch Baptist Church, where Mike teaches Sunday school and is church clerk. They serve on the local 4-H rules committee. Renee is a member of the Purvis Women’s Club, serving on the beautification committee. She sits on the board of directors of Purposeful Refuge, which puts physically challenged people on horseback so they can gain confidence. She is a commissioner for the Soil and Water Conservation District for Lamar County. “We love living in Purvis. It is just a good close-knit community. So, we make a point of giving back,” Renee said. “If you need help, you will have a yard full of people ready to help you. We are so thankful we could raise our children here.” The Keiths have two children, Kasi and Jake; one grandson, Jacob; and another grandson on the way. FB MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY
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“When the first Mustang cars came out in August 1964 (they were called the 1964½ models), I always wanted one and couldn’t have one. I thought they were the prettiest sports car ever made.” — Thomas Mills
t
hrough the years, Thomas Mills has become quite good at restoring antique cars (and one truck). Besides his cutting horse activities, it is a pastime that brings him much joy. “When the first Mustang cars came out in August 1964 (they were called the 1964½ models), I always wanted one and couldn’t have one,” he said. “I thought they were the prettiest sports car ever made.” In the 1970s, a friend who loved antique cars visited Thomas’ farm in the Eskridge community near Winona. The fellow was driving a 1932 Chevrolet, and Thomas says the car was fixed up like a Cadillac. “My friend wanted me to restore a car I had bought for my son to go to college in, but I told him I wanted a yellow Mustang convertible. He said he would find me one,” he said. “He found me a 1966 Mustang convertible in Texas and helped me get started on it.” Thomas repainted the car, had it reupholstered and replaced the six-cylinder engine with a V8 engine. “It runs faster than I need it to run, so when I’m gone, I guess whoever gets it will run it too fast,” he said with a wry smile. Thomas has also restored another 1966 Mustang and a 1964 GMC truck, the only new truck his dad ever owned. He buys the paint he uses from a special place. It is as close to the original color as they make. Sue Brasfield B Y G LY N D A of Duck Hill does the upholstery. “My brother drove the truck for years after our father died. When he finally gave it to me, I stripped it down and began restoring it. My brother, who was sick at the time, would ask me, ‘Have you finished it yet?’ I wanted to get it done before he died, and I managed to do that. He got to see it restored and take a few rides.” Thomas is busy restoring a blue Mustang that he has had for years. He plans to paint it maroon and white as a gift to his wife, Betty, and in admiration for Mississippi State University. He says when it is done, he will be done restoring antique cars. He plans to enjoy the rides. “At my age, it’s not as easy getting up under these cars,” he said with a smile. “I have my grandson, Mason, helping me this summer. We had someone helping us when we farmed row crops, and he also helped me with my cars. It takes a long time to restore a car. The yellow convertible took 1½ to 2 years.” Thomas used to drive his cars in homecoming events and
Christmas parades, but he doesn’t do that anymore. He and Betty are former members of Crossroads Cruisers. The Mills don’t take as many road trips as they used to, but when they do go for a spin, they always play a tape of 1950s music. Thomas may be slowing down with his cars, but he still rides horses and competes in cutting horse events. He has four quarter horses. The belt buckles and trophies he has won through the years make for a nice display. Thomas has been riding horses since he was a kid. He has also had his family competing in the show ring. Betty showed in western pleasure events for several years, while their son, Brad, and grandson, Kyle, were top contenders in 4-H. His mother was a horse enthusiast, too. “I grew up on a farm, one of 11 children of Mack and Estelle Mills, in that house across from my shop,” he said. “Every morning, my brother and I would get up early and milk cows then roll the milk cans up to the road to be picked up before we went to school. I also picked cotton by hand. When I was 17 years old, I said, ‘If I ever get away from this farm, I won’t come back.’” From 1954 through 1956, Thomas worked in Flynt, Michigan, building Chevrolets. When he met Betty on a blind date while visiting back home, a letter-writing courtship ensued. When the two were married, he returned home PHILLIPS to farm. After four generations of farming, Thomas takes pride in the fact that he did eventually come back to the farm. The Mills will have been married 59 years on July 14, 2017. “I might forget birthdays and other dates, but I never forget my anniversary,” Thomas said. “We have been very blessed and have complemented one another.” Thomas and Betty are retired from row crop farming, but he still has 130 head of cows and calves. He also does hay harvesting. The Mills are members of Eskridge Baptist Church, where he serves as a deacon. Thomas is also a member of the American Quarter Horse Association, National Cutting Horse Association, Mid-South Cutting Horse Association and South Central Mississippi Horseman’s Association. He is a lifetime member of Montgomery County Farm Bureau. Betty serves as State Women’ Chair for Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation. She is also her county’s women’s vice chair. The Mills have two sons, Tommy and Brad, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. FB
Restoring
Antique Cars
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2017 County Annual Meetings Here are the county annual meetings that didn’t run in the last issue. Adams County Farm Bureau Dec. 7 at 9 a.m. Farm Bureau Office, Natchez
Jefferson Davis County Farm Bureau Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Prentiss
Amite County Farm Bureau Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m. Harrison Building, Liberty
Jones County Farm Bureau Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Laurel
Attala County Farm Bureau Nov. 2 at 5:30 p.m. Barrister Hall, Kosciusko Dinner will be served at no charge to Attala County Farm Bureau members & their immediate family.
Kemper County Farm Bureau Sept. 19 at 6 p.m. County Farmers Market, DeKalb
Benton County Farm Bureau Nov. 7 at 6 p.m. Hickory Flat Attendance Center Cafeteria Must have a ticket to attend. Call (662) 224-8946 to reserve. Ladies please bring a dessert. Chickasaw County Farm Bureau Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Houston Clay County Farm Bureau Oct. 17 at 6 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, West Point
Lamar County Farm Bureau Sept. 18 at 6 p.m. Okahola Voting Precinct, Purvis RSVP at (601) 794-2773. Lauderdale County Farm Bureau Oct. 17 at 6 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Meridian Lincoln County Farm Bureau Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Brookhaven Madison County Farm Bureau Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. Farm Bureau Office, Canton
Choctaw County Farm Bureau Sept. 19 at 12 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Ackerman
Marion County Farm Bureau Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. Columbia Exposition Center, Columbia Serving fried fish with trimmings.
Copiah County Farm Bureau Aug. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Hazlehurst
Monroe County Farm Bureau Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Aberdeen
George County Farm Bureau Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Lucedale
Neshoba County Farm Bureau Oct. 10 at 6:30 p.m. Neshoba County Coliseum Philadelphia
Harrison County Farm Bureau Oct. 7 at 6 p.m. West Harrison High School, Gulfport Itawamba County Farm Bureau Sept. 26 at 6:30 p.m. Holiday Inn Express, Fulton All members are invited. Door prizes will be given. Jackson County Farm Bureau Sept. 30 at 4 p.m. East Central Community Center 4300 Hwy. 614, Hurley 24
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Newton County Farm Bureau Oct. 26 at 6:30 p.m. Coastal Plain Branch Exp. Station, Newton Catfish dinner and door prizes. Noxubee County Farm Bureau Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. County Civic Center, Macon Oktibbeha County Farm Bureau Sept. 28 at 6 p.m. MAFES Conference Center – Bull Barn Starkville
Panola County Farm Bureau Oct. 17 at 6 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Batesville Light refreshments. Pearl River County Farm Bureau Sept. 26 at 6 p.m. Jack’s Fish House, McNeill Pontotoc County Farm Bureau Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. County Extension Office Meal will be provided. Quitman County Farm Bureau Oct. 26 at 6 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Marks Rankin County Farm Bureau Sept. 25 at 8 a.m. Farm Bureau Office, Brandon Stone County Farm Bureau Sept. 12 at 6 p.m. The Lightered Knot, Wiggins Tallahatchie County Farm Bureau Oct. 19 at 8 a.m. Farm Bureau Office, Charleston Tippah County Farm Bureau Sept. 11 at 6 p.m. Industrial Building at County Fairgrounds Ripley Ladies bring a dessert. Walthall County Farm Bureau Sept. 14 at 6 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Tylertown Wayne County Farm Bureau Oct. 12 at 6 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Waynesboro Winston County Farm Bureau Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. Winston County Shrine Club Louisville Yalobusha County Farm Bureau Sept. 5 at 6:30 p.m. Farm Bureau Office, Water Valley Yazoo County Farm Bureau Nov. 16 at 10 a.m. Farm Bureau Office, Yazoo City SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017
Fundraising Dinner to Feature Robert St. John & Wyatt Waters The annual fundraising dinner for the Farm Families of Mississippi (FFM) Ag Promotion Campaign is set for October 24 at the Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum/ National Agricultural Aviation Museum in Jackson. It will feature Mississippi watercolorist Wyatt Waters and Mississippi restaurateur, chef and author Robert St. John. This dinner replaces the FFM dinner that is usually held at state convention and always enjoys excellent participation. St. John will cook for those in attendance, and Waters will complete a work of art that will be auctioned off during the dinner. The event promises to be a fun fundraising effort for a campaign that annually takes the farmer’s story to consumers across the state. More details will be provided as the event draws closer. You may also contact Greg Gibson at (601) 977-4154. The Farm Families of Mississippi Agriculture Promotion Campaign was created to educate the public about the agriculture industry. FB
See Page 31 for Member Benefits
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2017 Summer Commodity Conference Informative tours, excellent speakers and family-oriented activities were enjoyed during the 2017 Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Summer Commodity Conference held at The Mill at Mississippi State University (MSU) in Starkville in June. Pictured (at right and clockwise) are American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall ringing a cowbell during the dinner held at Hewlett Stables; a town hall/panel discussion with Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Cindy Hyde-Smith, Duvall, MFBF President Mike McCormick; and Dr. Greg Bohach, vice president of the MSU Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine (not pictured is moderator Dr. Michael Newman, director of the MSU School of Human Sciences); conference attendees; FARMtastic for the kids; and Duvall with leaders during the farm tour held before the conference. FB
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2017 Gary Langley Memorial Golf Tournament The Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Committee hosted the 2017 Gary Langley Memorial Golf Tournament Fundraiser on June 29 at Halifax Holes in Bolton. This yearly event is held in memory of Gary Langley, a previous State YF&R Committee member who lost his life in a tractor accident. All of the proceeds from the event benefit the YF&R program and help carry out the mission of preparing our state’s young farmers and ranchers to be stronger agricultural leaders and advocates. This year’s event enjoyed a great turnout, with 12 three-man teams competing for a variety of prizes. Two rounds of golf were played in the tournament, with six teams competing in the morning and six teams competing in the afternoon. First-place teams in each round of the tournament received plaques and $600; second-place teams in each round received plaques and $450. In addition, two closest-to-the-hole contests and one longest-drive contest were held during each round. Event participants agreed that the 18-hole course was a challenging and fun course to play. The committee would like to thank all of the sponsors, donors and
participants for helping to make the event a success. They would like to extend a very special thank you to MFBF Central Mississippi Vice President Ted Kendall IV for so generously donating the use of Halifax Holes for the event and for his hands-on assistance in helping the event to run smoothly. Winning first place in the morning round of competition was the team from Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company. Team members were Mike Heard, Kevin Sills and Bengie Goff. In second place for the morning was the team sponsored by Southern Crop Products, made up of Sandy Shamburger, Chris Lyle and Brad Morgan. The first-place team in the afternoon round of the tournament was the team from Sharkey County Farm Bureau. Team members were Josh Miller, Fred Miller and Brad Clinkscales, with caddie Jack Miller. The second-place team for the afternoon consisted of Kevin Meyers, Shane Fletcher and Rick Smith. Congratulations to all of the tournament winners. For more information about the YF&R program, call YF&R Coordinator Samantha Laird at (601) 573-7913. FB
First-place golf team for the morning was the Southern Farm Bureau Life First-place golf team for the afternoon was the team sponsored by SharInsurance Company team. Pictured, from left, are Mike Heard, Kevin Sills key County Farm Bureau. Pictured, from left, are Fred Miller, Brad Clinkand Bengie Goff. scales, Jack Miller and Josh Miller.
Second-place golf team for the morning was the team sponsored by South- Second-place golf team for the afternoon pictured, from left, are Rick Smith, ern Crop Products. Pictured, from left, are Chris Lyle, Sandy Shamburger Shane Fletcher and Kevin Meyers. and Brad Morgan. 28
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2017 Gary Langley Memorial Fundraiser Sponsors PRIZE SPONSORS: • Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company – Cash for Winners and Alternates • Bolivar County Farm Bureau – Cash for Winners and Alternates • Bank of Anguilla – Cash for Winners and Alternates • Fred Miller – Cash for Winners and Alternates • Helena Chemical – Bruce, MS • MFBF President Mike McCormick, North Mississippi Vice President Donald Gant, Central Mississippi Vice President Ted Kendall, South Mississippi Vice President Reggie Magee – Plaques for Winners and Alternates and K2 Coolers for the Winners of the Longest-Drive Contests • Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company – LIT Cooler and Titleist Golf
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Bag for Winners of the Closest-to-the-Hole Contests and Two Golf Shirts for Door Prizes • Mississippi Farm Bureau Insurance Company – Two YETI Coolers for Winners of the Closest-to-the-Hole Contests LUNCH SPONSOR: • Community Bank – Forest, MS HOLE SPONSORS: • Farm Bureau Insurance – Madison County • Southern Crop Products • Clay County Co-op • Rankin County Co-op • Thames Farms • Iuka Animal Hospital • Agri-AFC • Josh Miller • Guaranty Bank & Trust Company
• Silent Shade Planting Company • Southern Farm Services • Leflore Ag Services • Southern Tire Mart • South Delta Farm Supply • The Armadillo Trap • Perry Parker • Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company • Harrison County Farm Bureau • Lincoln County Farm Bureau • Pontotoc County Farm Bureau • Jasper County Farm Bureau • Sunflower County Farm Bureau • Yazoo County Farm Bureau • DeSoto County Farm Bureau • Simpson County Farm Bureau • Lee County Farm Bureau
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Ag Mags Available
See Page 31 for Member ➸ Benefits!
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The most recent issue of our Ag Mag children’s newsletter features land and water. You can order Ag Mags for your local classroom or ag promotion events from our Ag in the Classroom program. Dairy, corn, poultry, horticulture, cotton, peanut, honey bee, soil, beef and soybean editions are also available. Contact Pam Jones at: pjones@msfb.org or (601) 977-4854.
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