Fall 2010 Volume 10, Issue 4

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Fall 2010  Volume 10,  Issue 4

Gooding Family Dairy To Receive Governor’s Award – pg. 4

County President Receives Eisenhower Fellowship – pg 22

Safe Egg Handling for Consumers – pg. 29


The Ag Agenda

Giving Thanks by Giving By Bob Stallman

President American Farm Bureau Federation

Over the years, Americans have carved out November as a time for gratitude. We are fortunate to live in a country that’s rich with opportunity, sustained by democracy and blessed with a bounty of food. So, it makes sense to celebrate that abundance by giving thanks at Thanksgiving time. But, as we sit down at the dinner table

this Thanksgiving to turkey and all the trimmings, there are many who are going without. Just because our nation is plentiful with food, doesn’t mean everyone has a meal on their table. So, this month let us give thanks by giving to others who are truly in need. Going Without It is hard to imagine that in this great nation of plenty there are nearly 50 million Americans going hungry. According to Feeding America, 49.1 million See STALLMAN, page 10

The President’s Desk

Understanding Agriculture: Our Ongoing Challenge By Frank Priestley President Idaho Farm Bureau Federation

One of the most frequent comments we hear from producers is that consumers need to develop a better understanding of agriculture and the associated challenges.

The Idaho Farm Bureau Federation staff puts out a lot of information aimed at helping consumers better understand where their food comes from and how it is produced. This magazine, Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly is one of the tools we use to supply consum-

ers with educational material. We also cooperate and share information with the American Farm Bureau Federation and several other state Farm Bureaus. However, when surveys and consumer focus groups reveal things like some consumers believe chocolate milk comes from brown cows, our challenge is evident. Some of the tools we use outside traditional media, like magazines, include Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, an agriculture blog and Flickr. Idaho Farm Bureau has See PRIESTLEY, page 32

Inside Farm Bureau

Tribute To Idaho’s Women By Rick Keller CEO Idaho Farm Bureau Federation

This week an interesting blog crossed my desk. Patrick Dorinson, a communication strategist from Sacramento and a blogger on several sites including Fox News and Politicol, wrote an interesting piece titled: “The REAL Housewives of Idaho.” He was appropriately critical of Bill Maher’s comment regarding the “traditional idiot housewife.” Dorinson then made reference to the

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Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / fall 2010

“reality” TV shows that do not depict the traditional housewife, “Real Housewives of …New York, New Jersey, Atlanta, D.C., Orange County and Beverly Hills.” He wrote that these housewives are far from reality with their “lavish homes, fancy cars, and closets full of designer clothes and shoes, boxes of jewelry…who scream and yell and argue with each other over nothing of importance…bratty kids [who] are spoiled rotten.” Dorinson then identifies five women See KELLER, page 10


Contents

Volume 10, Issue 4 IFBF OFFICERS President . ................................. Frank Priestley, Franklin Vice President ..................................Mark Trupp, Driggs Executive Vice President .............................. Rick Keller

Features

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bryan Searle ............................................................Shelley Scott Bird .......................................................... Pocatello Chris Dalley ....................................................... Blackfoot Dean Schwendiman ........................................... Newdale Danny Ferguson ........................................................Rigby Scott Steele ..................................................... Idaho Falls Gerald Marchant .................................................. Oakley Rick Pearson ................................................... Hagerman Mike Garner.............................................................. Declo Curt Krantz ............................................................ Parma Mike McEvoy..................................................... Middleton Tracy Walton ....................................................... Emmett Marjorie French .............................................. Princeton Bob Callihan . ...................................................... Potlatch Louis Kins ........................................................... Kootenai Carol Guthrie ......................................................... Inkom Austin Tubbs . .......................................................... Malad

Ballard Family Dairy and Cheese: Entrepreneurs build two businesses from scratch

IDAHO FARM BUREAU QUARTERLY USPS #022-899, is published quarterly by the IDAHO FARM BUREAU FEDERATION, 275 Tierra Vista Drive, Pocatello, ID 83201.

Page 21

Page 4 Zoo Boise – New Kiosk and petting zoo promote agriculture to consumers

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STAFF Dir. of Admin. Services ....................... Nancy Shiozawa Dir. of Member Services ................................... Ray Poe Dir. of Commodities ............................ Gary Fuhriman Commodity Assistant ................................. Peggy Pratt Membership Assistant .............................. Peggy Moore Market Information Assistant ................ Dixie Ashton Dist. I Regional Manager ........................ Kendall Keller Dist. II Regional Manager .................... Dennis Brower Dist. III Regional Manager .................. Charles Garner Dist. IV Regional Manager ................... Russ Hendricks Dist.V Regional Manager ...................... Bob Smathers Dir. of Governmental Affairs ....................... Kent Lauer Asst. Dir. of Governmental Affairs ... Dennis Tanikuni Range/Livestock Specialist..........................Wally Butler Director of Public Relations ............. John Thompson Video Services Manager ............................ Steve Ritter Broadcast Services Manager .................... Jake Putnam Office Manager, Boise ............................ Shawna Yasuda Member Services Manager ........................ Joel Benson Printed by: Owyhee Publishing, Homedale, ID

IFBF Board Member competes in LoToJa Race

Idaho Meth Project art contest involves teens from every county

Page 12 Ghostly Activity Reported at Old Penitentiary

Page 14

County President receives Eisenhower Fellowship

Page 22 IFBF Photo Contest Winners

Page 24 IFBF Annual Meeting Agenda

Page 30

DEPARTMENTS

POSTMASTER send changes of address to: IDAHO FARM BUREAU QUARTERLY P.O. Box 4848, Pocatello, ID 83205-4848. Periodicals postage paid at Pocatello, ID and additional mailing offices. Subscription: $4 a year included in Farm Bureau dues. MAGAZINE CONTACTS: Idaho Farm Bureau Federation EDITOR (208) 239-4292 • ADS (208) 239-4279 E-MAIL: dashton@idahofb.org www.idahofb.org

Cover: Onions are unloaded and prepared for packing at Snake

River Produce near Nyssa, Oregon. The company is a cooperative owned by six Treasure Valley growers that packs and ships onions all over the U.S. Local growers say prices are good this year due to weather issues that shorted the Texas onion crop reducing the overall supply. Yields are about average in the Treasure Valley at around 650 hundredweight per acre. Photo by Steve Ritter

The Ag Agenda: Bob Stallman............................................................. 2 The President’s Desk: Frank Priestley.............................................. 2 Inside Farm Bureau: Rick Keller......................................................... 2 Insurance Matters............................................................................... 11 Word Search........................................................................................ 23 Farm Facts............................................................................................. 26 County Happenings............................................................................ 39 Classifieds ............................................................................................ 42

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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Travis Ballard, head cheese maker at Ballard Family Dairy and Cheese, uses a mandolin to slice feta cheese curds. The curds are sliced two ways and then stirred thoroughly before the whey is drained and the curds are removed from the tank. Photo by John Thompson

Gooding County Entrepreneurs Recognized for Marketing Innovation By John Thompson It all started with five, day-old calves and an entrepreneurial spirit. Steve and Stacie Ballard, and their three children moved from Southern California to Gooding County in 1993. The Ballard’s admit they didn’t know much about livestock or farming back then, but they weren’t afraid to work hard and ask questions, which is what they did. Today they are the very busy but proud owners of Ballard Family Dairy and Cheese, a burgeoning business producing handmade, small-batch cheeses and curds. They’ve won numerous national and regional awards for creating unique artisan cheese varieties and are this 4

year’s recipients of a Governor’s Award for Excellence in Agriculture. In the beginning, not unlike most small businesses, the learning curve was steep. When one of the five calves they purchased shortly after re-locating to Gooding County wouldn’t suckle, the Ballard’s didn’t know how to help it. They called on a neighbor Tim Dye, who was a herdsman at a nearby dairy. Dye showed them how to tube-feed the calf until it gained enough strength to suckle. From that experience, Stacie offered to go to work for Dye without wages, but just for the experience. She worked on the dairy for six months, learning to milk and take care of dairy cattle, but never

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

earned a penny. “I think the biggest asset Stacie and I have is that we are willing to ask a question or go out and talk to people to get information,” said Steve. “The local farming community has been great to us and was always willing to sit down and talk with us and pass on information. We have built two businesses from scratch, a dairy and a cheese plant and we’ve come a long way in a short time. Sometimes we lose focus on how fast it’s moving.” Constant motion is an apt description of the Ballard’s operation. After Stacie’s experience as a volunteer dairy farmhand, the


couple began making plans for a dairy of their own. They soon grew the operation to 150 head of Jersey milk cows, selling all of their milk to Glanbia Foods. At that time Steve kept his job as a diesel mechanic and shop foreman, while Stacie and the kids took care of the milking and most of the dairy chores. “When we entered the dairy market and were just selling milk, the first few years were pretty good,” said Steve. “But as the market got more volatile we starting looking for ways to mitigate our risk. You can’t keep all your eggs in the same basket and the dairy industry is a really good example of doing just that.” One of their diversification strategies was to start a Jersey herd rather than the more traditional black and white Holsteins. Jerseys don’t produce as much milk, but their milk has higher butterfat content. “The Jersey breed offered us the highest return on our milk and it was never our intent to be a large dairy,” Steve said.

Their Jersey herd is registered and has good genetics, so the family business was able to diversify into selling replacement heifers to other dairies. However, it wasn’t enough and the business continued to struggle with low milk prices. The Ballard operation had grown to the point where in agriculture circles it would be referred to as a “tweener,” meaning it was no longer a small farm but it wasn’t big enough to compete with the large dairy operations. Value-added was the next logical step. They looked at making yogurt and ice cream or simply bottling their own milk. But cheese seemed to offer the most options. “We chose cheese because it offered us the most marketing flexibility,” said Steve. “It’s a product you can put on a shelf and age for five years if you need to.” However, holding a lot of inventory is not an option for most small businesses and that fact wasn’t lost on the Ballard’s. The first products they brought to market were cheddar cheese curds, which they followed

with flavored curds featuring tomato and basil, dill, cool ranch, pepper and garlic, and hot and spicy. Steve said they had a good idea that curds would be popular locally because there used to be several small milk processing plants in the region that sold curds. From there they expanded into hard cheese varieties including white cheddar that is now available in a hot and spicy variety and new this year is their truffle cheddar. Other varieties include Holy Cow Baby Swiss, a younger cheese than traditional Swiss cheese, Idaho Jersey Dream, a feta style cheese, and a Halloumi style cheese called Idaho Golden Greek Grillin’ Cheese, which is possibly their most unique variety. Halloumi style cheese originated in Cyprus and is traditionally made from sheep or goat milk. This cheese can be baked, fried or toasted but it doesn’t melt like most other cheeses, rather it browns almost like a piece of meat. According to their website, See BALLARD CHEESE p. 6

The Ballard’s herd of registered Jersey cows are the foundation of the family business. Photo by John Thompson

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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BALLARD CHEESE

Continued from page 5

Steve and Stacie Ballard provide samples and sell cheese every week at the Boise Farmer’s Market. Photo by Steve Ritter

www.ballardcheese.com, it pairs with fruit, honey, ground spices, balsamic vinegar or even caramel sauce. The Ballard’s milk about 60 head and produce about 1,200 pounds of cheese each week. They also have a unique marketing strategy. They started with curds because they had a good idea they wouldn’t be hard to sell in southern Idaho. They had a good idea that Idaho has a good reputation as a farm state so they included Idaho on their logo. They had a good idea they didn’t want to try and compete in the market for generic yellow cheddar cheese, so they kept their cheddar white as many artisan cheese makers do. Cheese from cow’s milk is naturally white; the yellow comes from a form of food coloring. 6

“As things went along we learned we needed to be flexible, and willing to make changes,” said Steve. “We only have a million and a half people here in Idaho so we needed to expand our offerings. Our plant is designed to run small volumes so we can make a wide variety of cheeses. With more varieties we’ve been able to get more space on grocery store shelves.” “Family” is included as part of the business name and is another interesting aspect of the business. Steve’s unofficial title is “The Big Cheese,” but their son Travis, 27, is the head cheese maker. He attended university courses and other training in order to learn the chemistry and other technical aspects of cheese making and aging. Another son, Ryan, is in charge of feeding the cows.

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

Their employees are sisters Sagravio and Alondra Rodriguez, and their brother Jose. All are considered part of the Ballard family. They share meals during workdays and their children are welcome. “Our employees are part of our family,” said Stacie. “We eat meals together because we are all here every day. We work together and we play together and our cows are part of the family too, they are our girls. They are all in my prayers every night. We have taken care of them from the day they were born.” Glanbia Foods, a global corporation based in Ireland, with extensive holdings in the Magic Valley, is also an integral part of the Ballard’s extended family. In the early going Glanbia bought all of the Ballard’s


milk. When they decided to become a value-added business Glanbia agreed to continue to purchase surplus milk produced at the dairy. In the Magic Valley where large dairies are the norm, Glanbia could have easily decided to no longer do business with the Ballard family. Instead the Corporation decided to reward the Ballard’s entrepreneurial drive. Steve said the agreement with Glanbia is significant and has enabled the family to maintain the business because they always know they have a fall-back plan for marketing their milk. If they have a breakdown and can’t use their milk for cheese making they can sell it to Glanbia, or if they decide to take a vacation, they have an outlet. “We have a great partnership with Glanbia, they’ve been unbelievably good to us,” said Steve. “We would not be where we are today without them. They promote us and have been a great partner.” Educating the public about agriculture, the dairy industry and cheese making in particular is another aspect of the business that Stacie is focused on. The Ballard’s provide tours by appointment and along with educating people about the dairy industry and cheese making, they teach the economic aspects of their business. They include information like feed costs and nutritional needs of cattle, the lifespan and biology of a dairy cow, and how the dairy cycle works. “The education part is exciting to me and to be able to share our farm and what we know about making cheese,” said Stacie. “I want kids to understand the opportunities that exist in this business and to see what we do. I want them to know that our animals are well cared for and that Idaho has a great dairy industry.” Ballard Cheese can be purchased at Winco stores in the Magic Valley and Treasure Valley. It is also available at the Boise Co-op, Eagle Rock Co-op in Idaho Falls and at the Boise Farmer’s Market. Several restaurants feature their products and they are available by mail order through the website at www.ballardcheese. com.

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Some of the offerings from Ballard Family Dairy and Cheese. Photo by Steve Ritter Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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Ada County Farm Bureau Sponsors Zoo Exhibit Photo and Story by Jake Putnam The Ada County Farm Bureau is taking an active step in teaching a new generation about agriculture. “These kids coming up want to know where their food comes from,” said Ada County Farm Bureau President Don Sonke. “So we teamed up with Zoo Boise and built a kiosk to do just that.”

Bureaus have shown interest in the kiosk idea, as well. The My American Farm game was developed by the AFBFA with a grant from Pioneer Seed, a division of DuPont Co. An updated version featuring 12 games will

be premiered at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s annual meeting in January 2011. Visitors to the AFBFA booth can learn how they can use myamericanfarm. org to increase agricultural literacy in their schools and communities.

The kiosk is an offline, touch-screen version (a version that runs without Internet access) of the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture’s My American Farm game (www.myamericanfarm.org). The kiosk was installed at Zoo Boise’s farm exhibit earlier this month. The game kiosk has all five games featured on My American Farm. By touching and dragging various items on a touch screen, visitors can find the ingredients to make an apple pie or pick out products that come from cows. They can also put growing plant photos in the proper order. Several other educational games also are available to zoo visitors. “It’s our goal to educate a population that’s becoming farther removed from knowledge of how their food is produced,” added Sonke. “The kiosk has a farm and food message presented in a snappy, high-tech way that engages the kids. Interaction is the key to how they find out where their food comes from and how it’s harvested, instead of getting a lecture.” The development of the kiosk grew out of Ada County Farm Bureau’s long-time support of the AFBFA, says Curtis Miller, AFBFA’s director of education. “Ada County Farm Bureau has long been a financial supporter of the foundation and now they have shown their support in a very innovative way by taking the resources and games from myamericanfarm.org and making them available to the general public through this perfectly placed and very user friendly agricultural literacy resource. We both thank and applaud them for their support and efforts,” Miller said. Miller says other state and county Farm 8

Students at Zoo Boise check out the Ada County Farm Bureau’s new farm kiosk.

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010


Flexibility for whatever life brings your way

U

niversal Life insurance can help you protect your family from the uncertainties of life. Plus, it allows you to accumulate funds for the future on a tax-advantaged basis at a competitive interest rate. Call your Farm Bureau agent to see how simple it can be to tailor your life insurance coverage to meet your needs.

Visit www.fbfs.com to sign up for our free e-newsletter. It’s filled with useful tips to help you protect your family and save time and money.

Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company/West Des Moines, IA. Š 2010 FBL Financial Group, Inc. LI138 (11-10)

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Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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Stallman

Continued from page 2

Americans lived in food insecure households in 2008. Of those, 16.7 million were children. In fact, households that are more likely to experience a lack of food have children living within them. Many soup kitchens and food pantries around the nation offer some Americans their only hope for feeding themselves and their kids. For this reason, Farm Bureau members work year-round to donate food from their farms, time away from their operations and dollars from their wallets to local food banks and other charitable organizations in the hope that someday we can erase hunger from this country. Since its inception in 2003, the American Farm Bureau Federation’s “Harvest for All” initiative, coordinated through our Young Farmers & Ranchers program, but open to all, has given nearly $1 million and more than 20 million pounds of food to food banks, soup kitchens, shelters,

Keller

Continued from page 2 from Idaho, ranch women, who much better exemplify the traditional housewife in America. As Dorinson writes: “They live on ranches and farms, work on factory floors, raise children and hold down two jobs and they sit around the kitchen table with their husbands each morning worrying if they can pay the bills. And somehow they not only survive but thrive.” Dorinson is correct. Idaho’s farm women are the “traditional housewife.” Many work side by side with their husbands, doing what is necessary to raise a family and provide a living. These women understand and have patiently sat back and watched the raising of a machine shed over the remodeling of a humble home because they knew one must come before the other can be realized. Her older model car has more rattles and squeaks than her city cousin’s because it is driven over miles of bumpy, gravel roads on 10

pantries and churches. Combined, through this program farmers and ranchers have provided more than 23 million meals to those in need. Getting Creative Food is typically on Farm Bureau members’ minds all of the time. As producers, we understand the importance of having a food-secure nation. That’s why farmers work throughout the year to secure food for people going without. Sometimes it takes getting creative. In New York last year, farmers worked with third and fourth grade students at an elementary school to plant and harvest winter squash. When all was said and done, the students produced 2,500 pounds of squash, which was donated to their regional food bank. In South Dakota, when PETA protesters were dumping gallons of milk in the streets the day before Thanksgiving, dairy

emergency trips to town to get parts for a tractor broken down in the field. She’ll proudly show off the new loafing shed that will keep the calves warm on cold winter nights rather than her closet of modest clothing. Rather than complain and whine as she fearfully watches the black hail clouds descend upon the fields of ready-toharvest grain, she gathers her children around her and drops to her knees to offer a humble, prayer for relief. When dinner time comes, she doesn’t drive to the fancy, trendy restaurants with maître di’s who cater to her ever-petty demands, but instead dips into the crock-pot for stew she prepared hours earlier. She doesn’t sit for hours in the salon, receiving facials, pedicures and manicures but rather radiates a beauty, wholesomeness, and purity that TV’s “reality” housewives spend thousands of dollars trying to duplicate, but cannot. She doesn’t spend hours in the gym with her

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

producers and other farmers rallied and went gallon-for-gallon with the advocacy group. For every gallon dumped in the street, farmers donated a gallon to the local food bank. In less than 24 hours, producers gave more than 1,000 gallons of milk—just in time for the holiday meal. And in Pennsylvania, several Farm Bureau members worked with an organic vegetable farm that had been giving all of its excess produce to beef cows, to instead donate it to the area food bank. Farm Bureau members provided the bridge from the farm to the food bank, which resulted in more than 6,000 pounds of donated produce. Understandably, charitable acts that we should all be undertaking year-round can sometimes fall by the wayside. So, this month, in particular, as we give thanks, let us make an extra effort to ensure that everyone has something to be thankful for.

personal trainer, but lifts and totes and works on the farm and yet maintains her feminine softness and grace. Her laughter is genuine, her tears are meaningful, and her gratitude is sincere. She makes time for being active in meaningful causes that will make a difference in her community, not caring whether it is socially or politically the “in thing” to do or to be seen by others. She teaches her children to love God, country and family. She exemplifies the attributes of work, thrift, and compassion to those same children, who are often by her side doing the same. Our thanks go to those five REAL Housewives of Idaho that changed Dorinson and the world, for they do reflect the real housewives of Idaho. We honor and pay tribute to each and every one of Idaho’s traditional farm, ranch and housewives. Thank you and may you each be blessed with that inner self-awareness of your specialness and sacredness.


Insurance Matters Mike Myers ­­— Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. of Idaho

Quaking in our Boots Idahoans beware: Although we’re assailed each year by wildfires, crop-flattening hailstorms and windstorms, our greatest potential for natural disaster might be lurking directly beneath our feet: earthquakes. The magnitude 6.0 earthquake that struck northeastern Nevada in February 2008 and shook the ground as far away as Boise and Pocatello served as a reminder that Idaho is vulnerable to earthquakes. According to the Idaho Geological Survey (www.idahogology.org), Idaho is ranked fifth highest in the nation for earthquake hazard. Only California, Nevada, Utah, and Alaska rank higher. In the past 50 years, Idaho was shook by two of the largest earthquakes in the contiguous United States: the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake (magnitude 7.3) and the Borah Peak earthquake (magnitude 6.9).

•Repair defective electrical wiring, leaky gas lines, and inflexible utility connections. Get appropriate professional help. Do not work with gas or electrical lines yourself. •Bolt down and secure to the wall studs your water heater, refrigerator, furnace, and gas appliances. If recommended by your gas company, have an automatic gas shut-off valve installed that is triggered by strong vibrations. •Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Fasten shelves, mirrors, and large picture frames to walls. Brace high and top-heavy objects. •Store bottled foods, glass, china, and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets that fasten shut.

•Anchor overhead lighting fixtures. •Be sure the residence is firmly anchored to its foundation. •Install flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Flexible fittings are more resistant to breakage. •Locate safe spots in each room under a sturdy table or against an inside wall. Reinforce this information by moving to these places during each drill. •Hold earthquake drills with your family members: Drop, cover, and hold on. For further information about how to plan and prepare for earthquakes, as well as what to do during and after an earthquake, visit www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/ earthquakes.html.

The United States Geological Survey’s newest earthquake hazard maps (published in April 2008) show the worst-case scenario for the Wasatch fault that runs south from Malad as a magnitude 7.4 earthquake. By comparison, the January 12 earthquake that ravaged Port-au-Prince, Haiti and killed an estimated 250,000 people measured 7.0. You don’t have to lose your home and possessions to earthquakes. It’s never too early to prepare and you can take several basic steps right now to protect your family and home from disaster. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers the following earthquake preparedness tips on their website www.fema.gov/areyouready/earthquakes. The 1983 Borah Peak earthquake (a steep slope formed by the quake is shown here) was one of the shtm largest earthquakes recorded in the contiguous United States.

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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A mural painted by students in Gem County depicts the terrible reality of methamphetamine use. The mural is part of the Idaho Meth Project’s Paint the State Contest. Photo by Steve Ritter

Paint the State Contest Promotes Meth Awareness By John Thompson Drive through just about any part of rural Idaho this fall and it’s hard to miss hundreds of original pieces of art with a common message – Meth, Not Even Once. Sponsored by the Idaho Meth Project, Blue Cross of Idaho, Monsanto and the Idaho Hospital Association, the Paint the State Contest garnered over 350 entries and involved thousands of teenagers. Many are riveting messages depicting human addiction and suffering caused by a caustic drug that has left thousands of lives in ruin. One near Arco along Highway 93 is a wrecked car below a billboard stating “Don’t Let Meth Wreck Your Life.” Another is a 100’ by 15’ mural painted on the side of a building at the Elmore County Fairgrounds. The overall contest winner, created by brothers Brock and Zack Bartlett of Twin Falls County, is a 900-pound sculpture made from rolled steel custom fitted over a steel rod and rebar skeleton in 12

the form of two outstretched hands reaching skyward. Both hands are wrapped in steel chains anchored into the base rock. The rock base is carved to look fractured as though the hands are desperately attempting to break free with the message “Meth Not Even Once,” recessed into the face of the rock. The sculpture is on display at the Twin Falls County Courthouse. Hundreds of other creative works of art completed by students, 4-H groups, church and other civic groups dot state highways and other roads. According to Megan Ronk, executive director of the Idaho Meth Project, the goal of the project was to educate teens and young adults about the devastating effects of this dangerous drug. “We were thrilled with the amount of participation the contest drew,” Ronk said. “We ended up with 350 entries throughout the state that engaged thousands of teens. To have a public art component that touched every part of the state was significant.”

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

The artwork was judged by three-member panels in every county made up of a county commissioner, a local artist, and someone representing one of the sponsors. Cash prizes were awarded in every county and the overall winner received $5,000. Photos of all of the entries can be seen at www. paintthestateidaho.org. The Idaho Meth Project is a non-profit organization funded by private sources, corporations and some state and federal dollars. Results of a survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), released last June, shows meth use among Idaho teens dropped by 52 percent between 2007 and 2009 – the largest decrease of any state. By comparison, the study showed a drop of less than five percent among all U.S. teens. “These numbers are extremely encouraging,” Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter said. “They clearly demonstrate that Idaho’s integrated approach to addressing our


methamphetamine problem is having an impact. Thanks to a combination of law enforcement, treatment, and prevention efforts like the Idaho Meth Project, we are moving in the right direction. However, it is critical that we remain focused. The U.S. Justice Department says the supply of meth throughout the United States is at a fiveyear high.” The 2010 Methamphetamine Threat Assessment, published by the Justice Department, tracks the supply and distribution of methamphetamine in the United States. According to the report, increased involvement by the Mexican drug cartels in the manufacture and distribution of meth has resulted in a dramatic increase in the supply of cheap, highly potent methamphetamine. The 2010 Idaho Meth Use & Attitudes Survey, released by the Idaho Meth Project early this year, found that Idaho’s young people are increasingly aware of the dangers of using meth, are less likely to believe there are benefits to using meth, disapprove of using the drug even once or twice, and are more likely to discuss the subject with their friends and parents.

Ronk, who has directed the Idaho Meth Project since its inception five years ago, said results of the CDC survey are evidence that the Project’s strategy, including a strong focus on law enforcement, treatment and prevention is paying off. “We feel our program is working and are proud to have been a contributor to the largest state decrease in meth use in the nation,” she said. “Our primary mission is to prevent first time meth use. When you see that significant of a reduction it points to the fact that our state is moving in the right direction after many years of struggling with this issue.” The Idaho Meth Project originated based on a similar non-profit organization that started in Montana. Over the past five years in Idaho, they have surveyed teenagers’ attitudes about the drug and conducted a public relations campaign using print, television, radio and billboard advertising. One of the largest contributors to the Project has been the Coeur d’ Alene Tribe, which donated $500,000 over the last five years. Ronk said they are planning to launch a

new media campaign early next year. They also have 700 volunteers statewide and are always looking for opportunities to give presentations to teens and young adults. Anyone interested in hosting a presentation in their community can contact the Idaho Meth Project at 1-800-331-2060. According to the group’s website at www. idahomethproject.org, Idaho spends $60 to $102 million annually to incarcerate and treat offenders who admit to have a meth problem. This represents 32 to 55 percent of the Idaho Department of Correction’s total budget. Also, 52 percent of Idaho inmates directly attribute meth use to their incarceration. About 90 percent of female offenders in county jail in Idaho indicate they have a problem with meth and 73 percent of these women indicate that meth is their drug of choice. As of 2007, 70 percent of federal drug offenses in Idaho involved meth and 80 percent of child placements by Health and Welfare are directly related to drug abuse with methamphetamine being the most prevalent drug abuse. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare spends an average of $500,000 per month on methrelated treatment.

Students from Potlatch painted this mural on the side of a semi trailer. Photo by Steve Ritter

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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The Old Idaho State Penitentiary located east of Boise was closed in 1973 and later added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Old Penitentiary Shrouded in Mystery Photos and Story by Jake Putnam It stands like a gothic castle east of Boise. The Old Idaho State Penitentiary’s high sandstone walls and empty guard towers are a historic monument of misery. The Prison was closed back in 1973 because of overcrowding, and some claim it’s still overcrowded, packed to the rafters with ghostly inmates. “There was death, violence and destruction that happened within these walls,” said Amber Beierle Interpretation Specialist at the Old Prison. She says visitors often report an overwhelming creepiness that makes

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the hairs on the back of the neck stand up. “We get a lot of that,” she explains. In the late 1800’s, the Idaho territory was a lawless land. In order to win statehood in Congress, the territory needed a prison. So the penitentiary began in 1870 as a one-cell jailhouse. But it quickly grew into a compound of buildings surrounded by large sandstone walls. As part of their sentence, prisoners did hard labor in a large rock quarry in the hillsides above. The prisoners built the very walls that imprisoned them. In 103 years of operation more than 13,000 inmates passed through the gates of the Old

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

Penn. Records show that 10 inmates were executed here. Many more died within the cellblocks. From shortly after the prison was closed until the present, visitors report ghostly activity just about every day. Some report soft voices or unexplained shadows in photos. “It’s happened,” said Beierle. “It’s mostly individual photos. Of course some photos you can explain it with a dust particle here or there, but we leave interpretation up to the individual person. There’s no overwhelming evidence.” Crews from the Travel Channel show ‘The Ghost Adventurers’ investigated reports


from people who claimed close encounters. “The most action, the most unexplained things came from Siberia or the solitary confinement cellblock and that makes sense,” said Beierle” “But also in 5 house where the gallows is located. Raymond Snowden was executed there. But also in the rose garden, that’s where they got the most paranormal action.” Snowden was convicted of murder in 1956 and sentenced to death by hanging. He murdered Cora Dean, a mother of two, during a domestic argument after a night of drinking. Snowden claimed he backhanded Dean, but when she kicked him back he snapped and he stabbed her 35 times. Before his hanging, Snowden confessed to murdering two other women. Shortly after midnight on October 18, 1957, guards led Ray Snowden to the gallows in 5 House. It’s believed he wasn’t given a chance for last words. At 12:06 a.m., the trap door dropped, but the noose failed to break Snowden’s neck. The killer dangled at the end of the rope for fifteen minutes before finally dying of suffocation. Some say death row has been haunted ever since. In 1974 the prison was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and opened for tours. Since that first day guides and visitors reported the sinister feelings, strange sounds, and the dark entities that still haunt the cellblocks of Old Idaho State Penitentiary. Some swear it’s the most haunted place in Idaho.

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The cell block known as Siberia at the Old Idaho State Penitentiary is believed to be a place where paranormal activity is high. It was investigated by the Travel Channel’s Ghost Adventurers. Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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Mountain Pine Beetle Prolonged moisture or drought stress. 2) Slow tree growthcommon to overcrowded and older, over-mature stands. 3) Diseased, fire, and storm-damaged stands.

By Randy Brooks It seems like I get a lot of calls this time of year regarding dead or dying trees. Some of those calls concern Western Larch, which is a deciduous conifer whose foliage turns yellow and sheds its needles each fall. Other calls have been in regards to the pines that are dying across the mountains. I happened to be driving across Montana and Colorado recently, and noticed thousands, if not millions of dying trees. It seems as if the mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins) has hit epidemic proportions and is doing what it does best: kill trees. Bark beetles, especially the mountain pine beetle (MPB) are a major cause of timber losses throughout the Rockies and the West. These pests are ready to move in to susceptible conifer stands. During early stages of an outbreak, attacks are limited largely to trees under stress. However, as beetle populations increase, MPB attacks most mature trees in the outbreak area. Factors leading to tree stress and possible bark beetle outbreaks include: 1) 16

The MPB is the most destructive forest insect in western North America. Mountain pine beetle can attack any pine species (native or ornamental), but in Idaho is particularly destructive in lodgepole, ponderosa, whitebark, and limber pines. MPB typically have a one year life cycle. In late summer, adults emerge and seek out large diameter, living, green trees, tunneling under the bark to mate. If successful, each pair will form a vertical tunnel and produce about 75 eggs. Following egg Evidence of mountain pine beetle damage on the St. Joe National Forest. hatch, larvae (grubs) tunnel away from cycle over again. tion thin? the egg gallery, effectively girdling the tree. The beetles also So, what options are available Basically, there are two apintroduce a blue stain fungus to the private landowner for proaches to reducing losses into the sapwood which im- managing this insect? The fol- from MPB in pine forests: (1) pedes water transport. Larvae lowing answer generally is not long-term (preventive) forest overwinter and pupate in late what the landowner wants to management, and (2) direct spring with adults emerging hear, but, here goes: Thin, sani- control. Preventive managefrom the bark in midsummer tize, thin, and actively manage ment strives to keep beetle to attack new trees and start the your forest. Oh, and did I men- populations below injurious

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010


levels by limiting the beetles’ food supply through forestry practices designed to maintain or increase tree/stand resistance. Preventive management addresses the basic cause of epidemics, which is stand susceptibility, and is considered the most satisfactory long-term solution. It includes a combination of hazard rating, priority setting, and silvicultural manipulations. Situations where MPB instead of forest managers set priorities and dictate management options should be avoided. Silvicultural treatments are most effective when they are in place before a MPB outbreak. Thinning in an area during a current outbreak is not always effective. Insecticides can be applied to the bark of individual, highvalue trees to protect them from bark beetle attack. This approach is only practical on a small scale such as around home or cabin sites, and must be reapplied periodically. Realize that it does not change the susceptibility of the tree to bark beetle attack. Consult with a forest health professional if you decide to take this approach. Although direct control measures such as chemical sprays, pile and burn and sanitation may prevent additional tree losses in individual spots, areawide control of the beetles has not been very effective. Natural enemies such as parasites and predators and disease agents provide some small measure of control. Subzero temperatures and long winters may kill many beetles – but don’t count on this help. Although all these factors may help they will not prevent future bark beetle outbreaks. Management must focus on

forests and not MPB. Management should alter stand conditions that favor buildup of beetle populations. However, alternative strategies for reducing losses from MPB must emphasize biologically sound silviculture that includes concern for other resource values. Research shows that bark beetle problems are directly related to forest stand conditions. Keep this in mind when you develop your forest management plans. Good stand management offers the cheapest, most practical, and longest lasting means of control, especially where beetle epidemics occur frequently. For more information on MPB and other insects and diseases, check out the following websites for information on forest insect and disease identification and management. Insect and Disease Field http://www.fs.fed. Guide: u s / r1- r4 /s pf /f h p /f ield _ guide/58mtnpb.htm Insect and Disease Management guide: http://www. fs.fed.us/r1-r4/spf/fhp/mgt_ guide/index.htm

Pitch tubes caused by mountain pine beetles.

Randy Brooks is a University of Idaho associate professor and extension educator in forestry, 4-H, and agriculture. He can be reached at the

UI-Clearwater County Extension Office 2200 Michigan Ave. Orofino, ID 83544 Phone: 208476-4434 FAX: 208-476-4111 E-mail: rbrooks@uidaho.edu

Signs and symptoms of MPB attack include: 1) Popcorn shaped masses of resin (pitch tubes) on the trunk where the beetle enters the tree, though pitch tubes are not always present. 2) Boring dust or frass in the cracks and crevices of the bark. 3) Foliage turning yellowish to reddish throughout the crown of the tree. This usually occurs 8-10 months after a successful attack. 4) Presence of live MPB (eggs, larvae, pupae, and/or adults) as well as galleries under the bark. Galleries will have a “J” hook at the start of the gallery. 5) Evidence of woodpeckers feeding on the trunk. Pieces of bark are removed and are often visible on the ground below the tree. 6) Blue stained sapwood. Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010


Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

5/7/2010 8:52:01 AM


Raft River Farmer finishes Nation’s Toughest Cycling Race By Jake Putnam Mike Garner, a 47-year-old Declo farmer, recently finished one of the nation’s most grueling cycling events, the LoToJa, in an impressive 10 hours and 43 minutes. It’s an astonishing finish for a first timer. In addition, he clocked an impressive 22nd place in his skill class. Over 1,400 riders raced over the 206 mile course this year. “I’d been preparing for a couple of years,” said Garner, who farms outside of Raft River and serves on the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors. My goal was to stay with the guy I trained with, and I did. I beat my goal of 11 hours, so I was happy.” The 206 mile race stretches from Logan, Utah to Jackson Hole, Wyoming and is the longest single-day road cycling race in North America. It’s also the longest oneday race sanctioned by the United States Cycling Federation. “The guy who owns the bike shop in Burley told me no one had ever broken the 11hour mark their first try, so that was a goal of mine and I somehow got it done,” said Garner who takes breaks from farming to train. “I wasn’t a believer at first,” confessed wife Toni. “I admit that I was resentful of all the time he was putting into the race. But when I saw the race unfold before my eyes; saw the hard work I became a believer. It’s an amazing accomplishment.” The LoToJa or Logan to Jackson race winds over mountain passes and through scenic valleys starting in Logan. From there the course proceeds north to Preston and Montpelier then to Star Valley, Wyoming and on through a series of steep climbs into Jackson Hole. “Total climbing in this race is something

Mike Garner, a Declo farmer finished the LoToJa bicycle race in 10 hours and 43 minutes in his first attempt at riding the 206-mile course. Photo Courtesy of Mike Garner

like 9,500 feet and then 7,000 feet down, “said Garner, who put in four grueling training sessions a week all summer for the post Labor Day race. “The first half of the race is the hardest, you have to mentally stay in the game because you stay in a pack all the way to Preston,” he said. “I think there were 50 of us, but once we hit Strawberry (Canyon) and start-

ed climbing, it blew the pack apart and you soon see who the climbers are.” Garner stuck like glue to his training partner knowing a simple mistake or lapse in concentration could spell doom. With more than 1,400 competitors the race had a life of its own and Garner’s Burley team had See BIKE RACE p.35

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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Blair Named Eisenhower Fellow By Jake Putnam Former Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Jim Moseley announced the 2010 Eisenhower Fellowships earlier this month and Robert Blair of Kendrick, is one of two Agriculture Fellows that will travel abroad in 2011. “This program gives farmers an opportunity to see firsthand some of the latest techniques in agriculture and to establish international connections for their communities,” said Mosley. Blair, with wife Rhonda and sons Logan and Dillon, farms 1,500 acres of wheat, lentils, garbanzos and alfalfa seed on the Palouse. He is a graduate of the University of Idaho and is the Nez Perce County Farm Bureau president. He is an innovator in the area of precision agriculture and uses remote controlled airplanes, knows as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to monitor his crops. The farm has been in the Blair family for over 100 years.

Robert Blair teaches a Precision Agriculture class to U of I students from his farm near Kendrick, Idaho. Photo by Steve Ritter

“It’s a great achievement and it’ll be a life altering experience,” said Blair. “General Colin Powell is the chairman of the fellowship. Former chairmen are Henry Kissinger, Gerald Ford, and former Presi-

“The fellowship allows me to travel overseas and meet people in education, universities and the business world and get an understanding of what they’re doing in agriculture,” he said. “I’ll learn from them, but also “The fellowship allows me to travel take my knowledge of agrioverseas and meet people in education, culture and build a network of people worldwide.”

universities and the business world and get an understanding of what they’re doing in agriculture” dent George H. Bush. So to be with that kind of leadership is bar none.” The goal of the Fellowship is to engage emerging agriculture leaders worldwide to enhance professional capabilities, network, deepen perspectives, and unite in a diverse, global community where dialogue, understanding, and collaboration lead to a more prosperous, just, and peaceful world, according to a press release. 22

Deputy Secretary Moseley says one of the goals of the fellowship is to reach out to the world’s farmers. “In this world where tensions between countries mount easily, it’s programs like Eisenhower Fellowships that bind us together as ‘people knowing people’ with the powerful and unbreakable bond of helping one another, no matter their backgrounds, to solve our collective daily problems. That is the essence of what President Eisenhower believed in after the horrific World War II experience which he commanded, and which proudly still exists

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

today through this program.” Fellows will use their experiences abroad to enhance their leadership in U.S. agriculture. Christine Todd Whitman, former Governor of New Jersey and Chairman of the Executive Committee for Eisenhower Fellowships said, “We live in a globalized world. An Eisenhower Fellowship will allow these outstanding farmers to bring new insights from world experts back to their communities and to form a network of lasting relationships that will make them global leaders in agriculture.” Chaired by General Colin Powell, Eisenhower Fellowships is a private, non-profit, non-partisan organization seeking to foster international understanding and leadership through the exchange of information, ideas, and perspectives among emerging leaders throughout the world. Established in 1953 as a birthday tribute to President Eisenhower, the organization has sponsored more than 1,800 Fellows from 108 countries.


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Alouette Alouette American American Bergenost Bergenost Bleu Bleu BrieBrie Cheddar Cheddar Colby Colby Colby Jack Colby Jack Cottage Cottage Cream Creole

Cream Kunik Quesillo Mozzarella Danish Pearl Creole Liederkranz Smoked Farmer Muenster Danish Pearl Limburger String Feta Nacho Farmer Montery Jack Spray Goat PepperJack Feta Mozzarella Swiss Golden Greek Provolone Goat Muenster Teleme Quesillo Gouda Golden Greek Nacho Hoop Smoked Gouda PepperJack Kunik String Hoop Provolone Liederkranz Spray ON PAGE 40 ANSWERS Limburger Swiss 23 Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010 Teleme Montery Jack


Grand Prize: Connie Adair from Franklin County.

Photo Contest 2010 The Women’s Leadership Committee is pleased to announce the winners of the 2010 Seasons of Agriculture in Idaho photo contest. Completing its 10th year, over 190 photos were received in the three divisions. Winning photos will be featured on a calendar published annually by the committee.

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Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

Division Winner, 6-12 year olds: Tom Lau of Caribou County


Division Winner, 21 and Above: Dave Smith from Caribou County.

RIGHT: Division Winner, 13-20 Years Old: Luke Brogan of Caribou County BELOW: Division Winner, 6-12 year olds: Kinzlee Evans of Oneida County

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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Farm Facts

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Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010


Top Farm Bureau Agents Rookie of the Month: Agent of the Month: Agency Manager of the Month: Chris Pullman Caldwell Office

Rod Bird

Meridian Office

Dave Hart Boise Office

Farm Bureau Members Ski For Less This Winter

www.idahofbstore.com

208-239-4289 Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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Book Review The Zucchini Houdini

$13.99 By Brenda Stanley Bonneville Books Springville, Utah Eastern Idaho television anchor and cooking show host Brenda (Baumgartner) Stanley recently published a book highlighting the versatile, ever-plentiful and sometimes misunderstood zucchini squash. It’s a fun read, packed with great information and recipes ranging from slaws to fried feta zucchini blossoms. Stanley has been zucchini aficionado from childhood. She writes about helping her dad plant the garden and watching the plants grow. But as an adult gardener she’s had to learn to deal with the regular occurrence of too much zucchini. Her goal was to find ways to enjoy zucchini, “regardless of the quantity or size.” She thanks several family members, friends and even strangers for the many recipes, stories and suggestions. Although widely regarded as one of the most prolific vegetables in the garden, zucchini is actually a fruit because it comes from the swollen ovary of the zucchini flower. It is the most popular squash in the United States and has many nutritional benefits. It’s high in fiber and low in calories. It also offers antioxidants, folate, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium and phosphorus. Make sure to leave the skin on unless the recipe advises different. Most of the nutrients are in the skin. Listed under “Helpful Hints,” the book provides tips on freezing, storing, cooking, equivalents and how to prepare blossoms for cooking. The book includes over 100 recipes with different ways to use zucchini in the kitchen. Another unique aspect of this book is that although vegetarians would find it to their liking, there are also plenty of recipes that call for butter, bacon, sausage, cheese and cream. The book is split into sections that include salads, soups, stove top preparations, numerous ways to bake zucchini,

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Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

breads and muffins, cakes and cookies, ice cream, pickles both sweet and dill, relishes and blossoms. In addition the book includes a few short but interesting stories about zucchini squash. One of them is about how the humble zucchini helped the town of Windsor, Florida buy a new fire house. Another tells about some sneaky squashes in Brenda’s garden that evaded harvest and were later discovered “glistening in the snow,” creating a zucchini graveyard of sorts. Stanley is a graduate of the University of Utah and has received numerous awards in TV journalism. She is the mother of five, including two sets of twins, and grandmother of two. She lives on a ranch near the Snake River with her husband Dave, a veterinarian, and their dogs and horses. John Thompson


Safe Egg Handling 101: Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill Completely Cooked is Completely Safe By Mary Lee Chin MS., RD In the wake of the recent half-billion egg recall, people are concerned about the safety of consuming eggs. It only takes a few simple steps to keep this nutrient rich food in our diet safely. Clean, separate, cook and chill will help keep not only eggs, but all foods safe in your kitchen. First: keep everything clean including washing hands and utensils that have come into contact with raw eggs (or raw foods in general). You avoid any cross contamination and that’s a good habit to get into when you handle any raw food. Make sure you launder one item that many people don’t think about---recyclable grocery sacks. And how long to wash your hands? Experts recommend about 20 seconds –about the length of time to sing the ABC’s as your preschoolers know. Next, keep things separate: Keep eggs and raw meat items separate in your grocery cart from foods that do not need to be cooked. Bag and store them separately as well. Don’t put raw eggs or raw meat with your fruits and vegetables that you will not be cooking. Keep a separate cutting board for raw meats and another for food preparation does not require cooking, such as salads. Again, this simple step helps avoid cross contamination. Cook your eggs to at least at 160 degrees Fahrenheit. This is where the egg yolk is firm. Eliminate recipes that use raw eggs such as meringues that are whipped up from raw egg whites and folded into mousses or pies for example. Pre-pasteurized egg whites are options for these recipes. Completely cooked, is completely safe. Keep food well chilled. If you are going to be running errands after the trip to the grocery, store the perishables, including eggs, in a cooler with an ice pack, in your car. Eggs should be stored in the refrigerator that is between 33 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep eggs in the original container in the main body of refrigerator, not in the

egg carrier in the door. It is difficult to keep the temperature constant, especially if you have a family that continuously opens the refrigerator door. When you have a cooked egg or other perishable food product don’t let it sit out on the counter, put it in the r e f r i g e r a t o r. The rule is that if perishable food is left two hours at room temperature, it should be discarded. When cooked properly, eggs are always a safe, wholesome and convenient food for you and your family to enjoy. Eggs are all-natural and packed with a number of nutrients. One egg has 13 essential vitamins and minerals in varying amounts, high-quality protein, unsaturated fats and antioxidants, all for 70 calories. For more information on this recall and the safe handling of eggs, please visit www. eggsafety.org. or www.fightbac.org. You can still keep nutrient rich eggs a safe part of your diet by following these simple safe food handling practices: Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill. And, these recommendations apply to all foods.

Mary Lee Chin MS., RD, is a registered dietitian specializing in health communications. She is regularly consulted by local and national media on nutrition trends and significant health and food issues. Her interviews include the New York Times, USA Today, Associated Press, CNN, and television and radio affiliates nationwide. Her company, Nutrition Edge Communications consults on public relations health initiatives, and she is a food consultant, working to discuss news about controversial health and nutrition issues.

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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Idaho Farm Bureau Federation Agriculture - Idaho’s Economic Foundation

71st Annual Meeting Agenda Doubletree Riverside Hotel, Boise, Idaho • November 30 – Dec. 2, 2010 (tentative)

Tuesday, November 30 9 a.m. Registration Desk Opens 11:30 am General Session Luncheon 1 p.m. Leadership Conference and Workshops “Market Outlook” – Clark Johnston, AgriSource/JC Mgmnt. County Coordination Plans – Stacy Grant, American Stewards Ag Contract/Liens – Jay Kiiha, Capital Law Legislative Issues - IFBF Governmental Affairs 2 p.m. Refreshment Break 2:15 p.m. Workshops Continued Water Issues Panel - Lynn Tominaga, Bert Stevenson, Norm Semanko Nuclear Energy – Steven Aumeier, INL EAJA – Jennifer Ellis, Western Legacy Alliance Crop Management Strategies – Clark Johnston, AgriSource 3:15 p.m. Refreshment Break 3:15 p.m. Discussion Meet Participants and Judges 3:30 p.m. Discussion Meet Semi-Finals 4:45 p.m. Screening Committee Meeting 5 p.m. Credentials Committee Meeting 5 p.m. Young Farmers and Ranchers Caucus 5 p.m. House of Delegates Procedures 5:45 p.m. Discussion Meet Finals 7 p.m. Awards Banquet and Live Auction

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Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

Wednesday, December 1 6 a.m. Health Fair 7 a.m. Rise ‘N Shine Breakfast Affiliated Company Reports - Insurance, Phil Joslin 8 a.m. House of Delegates Session Begins 8 a.m. District Women’s Caucuses 10 a.m. Refreshment Break 9:30 a.m. Women’s Committee Business Meeting Noon Luncheon 2 p.m. House of Delegates continues 2 p.m. Special Workshop – Women’s Leadership Committee 3:15 p.m. Refreshment Break 4:30 p.m. District Caucuses 7:00 p.m. Annual Banquet / President’s Cup Award / Speaker: Matt Rush Thursday, December 2 7 a.m. County President’s Breakfast 8 a.m. Election of Directors 8:20 a.m. House of Delegates Resumes 10:15 a.m. Refreshment Break Noon Adjourn House of Delegates 12:30 p.m. State Board of Directors Luncheon 12:30 p.m. State Board Spouses Luncheon 1:30 p.m. State Board of Directors Meeting


Idaho Farm Bureau Annual Meeting Workshops Market Outlook

This workshop will discuss seasonal trends and what factors have driven the markets this past year. It will also look at our price potential as well as our price risk during the next season. Clark Johnston, JC Management, Clark started his 30 plus years career in 1997 working for Farmers Grain Co-op in Ogden Utah. He went to work as a Commodities Broker, opening up and managing the Western Regional offices of Farmers Commodities and FC Stone in Roy, Utah. Currently together with Alan Barrow and Trevor Christensen the own and operate JC Management. He is a merchandiser of small grains and hay. Clark is a consultant with producers and flour mills in Utah and Idaho. Clark is in his third year as a marketing consultant with the Idaho Farm Bureau. Clark and Julie were married in 1975 and are the parents of three children and five grandchildren.

Crop Management Strategies-Alternate Crops

This workshop will discuss crop management strategies as well as alternate crops that may fit into the producers crop rotations. Discussing will also center on expected returns from the alternate crops. Clark Johnston, JC Management William J Meadows, Mountain States Oilseeds William is a third generation farmer, born and raised in American Falls, Idaho. He farmed the family homestead for 38 years. He holds a BS degree in Agricultural Economics with a minor in Agronomy from the University of Idaho. He has owned and operated Mountain States Oilseed for 32 years, working to establish new oilseed crops, farming techniques and rotations for the intermountain states. In 2009 he was awarded the Idaho Governors Award for Excellence for Marketing Innovation. He is experienced in all management facets from field to consumer.

Workshop: “Nuclear Energy Perspectives” A brief look at the history of why we have what we have today, what the opportunities are, and where the challenges lie. Dr. Aumeier is responsible for the leadership of the Energy Systems & Technologies Division at the Idaho National Laboratory. The Division is responsible for the Laboratory’s clean energy and regional partnership strategic platforms including renewable energy, low-carbon fossil energy, advanced vehicles, industrial energy efficiency, and hybrid

(integrated nuclear-fossil-renewable) energy system programs. He was named to his current post in 2007 after serving as Director of the Energy Security Initiative at the INL. Prior to this assignment, he served as the manager and then Director, Nuclear Nonproliferation at Idaho National Laboratory. Before joining INL, Dr. Aumeier served for 10 years (1995 - 2005) with Argonne National Laboratory. During this time, he held various leadership positions in nuclear energy and national security research

Steven E. Aumeier, Ph.D. Director Energy Systems and Technologies Idaho National Laboratory

and management. He also served a special assignment (2002-2003) with the National Nuclear Security Administration in Washington DC as a technical advisor on counterterrorism issues. He serves on or leads numerous academic boards and committees, and is Executive Director of the Board overseeing the Idaho Strategic Energy Alliance. He is a technical expert in the areas of energy systems analyses, nuclear energy technology, and systems diagnostics. Dr. Aumeier received a B.S. in Engineering from Idaho State University in 1990, an M.S. and Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering from The University of Michigan in 1992 and 1994, respectively, and an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago in 2002. He returned to Idaho in 1995 where he lives with his wife (Rita) and 3 children (Matthew, Megan and Jake).

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

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PRIESTLEY

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nearly 1,800 Facebook friends. With this social networking tool, we can reach all of those people with a positive message about agriculture at any time. Twitter is similar but the amount of information you can pass along is limited. YouTube has become an important messaging tool as well. We currently have about 60 active YouTube videos posted that are receiving hundreds of views every month. Flickr is a photo sharing social network. Idaho Farm Bureau has posted over 5,000 images of Idaho agriculture for others to view. The photos have been used in a wide variety of print publications.

want to find out how to make an apple pie and where the ingredients come from, all you have to do is touch the screen. Zoo Boise attracts 325,000 visitors per year. There are

as the United Dairymen of Idaho, and local high schools to sponsor promotions during high school athletic events. There are doz-

a lot of intricacies inside Idaho

Rex Larsen, a rancher agriculture that can be difficult and burfrom Spanish Fork, Utah recently gave a densome to understand. The process of presentation to group of second-graders at the Utah educating the public is ongoing - never County Equestrian Park. It ending in fact. was part of Utah Farm Bureau’s annual Farm Field ens of other partnerships and agreements Days. Larsen discussed the challenges ason the local, state and national level aimed sociated with cattle ranching, the biology So, the point is Idaho Farm Bureau has a of cattle grazing and many of the products at helping consumers understand that chocolate milk does not come from brown lot of tools at its disposal that are used to that come from the beef industry. He did cows, but there are a lot of intricacies spread a positive message about agricula great job and it was easy to see the kids ture. Many other state Farm Bureaus have were interested in what he had to say. Utah inside Idaho agriculture that can be difficult and burdensome to understand. The a similar social networking presence. The Farm Bureau staff members made a short process of educating the public is ongoing use of these new tools along with more video and posted it on their Facebook traditional mediums including television, page. The video has been watched by over - never ending in fact. print publications and radio are helping 200 people. On the national level we have an opportuspread a positive message about U.S. agri- Once again this year the Bannock County nity every year to judge American Farm culture. Here are some examples: Bureau’s County Activities of Excellence Farm Bureau hosted several hundred contest. This contest shares information on The Ada County Farm Bureau has joined fourth-graders at Swore Farms for an agdozens of innovative activities sponsored in a partnership with Zoo Boise to promote riculture education day and a chance to by county Farm Bureaus across the nation. and educate about agriculture. Ada County play in a corn maze. The kids learn about One of the entrants this year was the ShaFarm Bureau is the chief sponsor of a agriculture from local high school Future on the sheep and goat petting zoo where children Farmers of America, and other volunteers. wano County, Wisconsin Brunch th annual Brunch Farm. This year at their 27 can feed and touch the animals. Along They get to see potatoes being unearthed they served nearly 5,000 people. They hold and then they all get the activity at a different farm every year. We believe that teaching kids encourages a bag they can fill of tasty spuds to This year it was held at a 3,000-cow dairy. them to go home and talk about agriculture full The people in attendance could take a take home. tour of the farm and the tour guides with their parents. Those conversations can The Chandler fam- wagon carried hand-held computers that could answer questions about each individual cow result in a better understanding of what we ily in Washington County host local on the farm. They could find out how old do. We salute all of the producers in Idaho elementary students a cow is, how many calves she’s had, how who go out of their way to help educate and on their ranch every many pounds of milk she produced that year. Kids from day and much more. promote Idaho agriculture. Weiser-area schools We believe that teaching kids encourages get to learn about them to go home and talk about agriculture horses, cattle and with their parents. Those conversations sheep, and what life on a ranch is like. In with the petting zoo exhibit, a computeraddition, the ranch has a fossil deposit that can result in a better understanding of what we do. We salute all of the producers ized agriculture kiosk allows people of all affords an opportunity for a hands-on gein Idaho who go out of their way to help ages the opportunity to learn about Idaho ology / biology lesson. educate and promote Idaho agriculture. agriculture. The touch screen computer teaches about where food comes from and Several county Farm Bureaus across the state partner with commodity groups such how it’s produced. For example, if you 32

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010


Butterflied Leg of American Lamb with Herbs 8 servings Preparation time: 10 minutes Cook time: 1 hour

1/2 1 1 1

1 3 to 4

cup olive oil tablespoon dried basil tablespoon oregano tablespoon minced fresh garlic teaspoon black pepper pounds boneless American Lamb leg, butterflied

Blend oil with basil, oregano, garlic and pepper; pour half over meat and brush over both sides. Grill lamb over medium coals in covered grill, about 6 inches from coals, for 20 to 25 minutes per side. Baste occasionally with remaining herbed olive oil. Rest lamb for about 10 minutes; slice lamb crosswise at a diagonal slant. Recipe and image provided by the American Lamb Board

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

33


34

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010


Mike Rowe to Keynote AFBF Annual Meeting WASHINGTON, D.C – Mike Rowe, the creator and executive producer of Discovery Channel’s Emmy®-nominated series Dirty Jobs with Mike Rowe, will deliver the keynote address to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 92nd annual meeting on January 10, 2011, in Atlanta, GA. More than 5,000 Farm Bureau members from across the nation will gather in Atlanta Jan. 9-12 to hear from distinguished leaders and participate in a grassroots policy setting process that will guide the American Farm Bureau through 2011. A champion of farmers and ranchers and other hard-working Americans, Rowe has spent years traveling the country, working as an apprentice on more than 250 jobs that most people would go out of their way to avoid. Rowe knows how to get his hands dirty and has worked in just about every industry, including many agriculture jobs. “We are excited to have Mike Rowe as our keynote speaker,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman. “Like farmers and ranchers, he’s

not afraid to roll-up his shirt sleeves and get his hands dirty. Mike understands that most things that contribute to our standard of living – such as abundant food – are the result of someone else’s hard work, dedication and skill, not magic. I think Farm Bureau members will get a lot out of his message.”

Mike is doggedly highlighting the issues facing America’s farming community through his website and specifically on his blog “The Future of Farming” (www.mikeroweworks.com/2010/08/the-future-offarming/). Rowe was the keynote speaker at the 82nd National FFA Convention in Indianapolis last year.

Some of Rowe’s Dirty Jobs have included apprenticing as a big animal veterinarian, cow feed lot worker, dairy cow midwife, rice plantation worker, egg producer, and a farmer for goats, pigs, turkeys, potatoes, and sugar cane.

Farm Bureau members can register for the 92nd AFBF annual meeting through their state Farm Bureaus.

While Dirty Jobs showcases some of America’s toughest occupations, Rowe’s work doesn’t stop at the job site. He’s launched a website called mikeroweWORKS.com, where skilled labor and hard work are celebrated in the hope of calling attention to the steady decline in the skilled trades and dwindling enrollments in trade schools and technical colleges. In furtherance of his support of farming,

Mike Rowe, host of Dirty Jobs, will be the keynote speaker at the AFBF’s 92nd meeting in Atlanta, Georgia.

BIKE RACE Continued from page 21 to plan for the finest details. They worked out everything from extra clothes to battle cold temperatures in the morning to food needed for the monstrous hill climbs.

ical endurance at this point; it was finding enough discipline to concentrate through the endless miles and keeping an eye on the prize - finishing.

“When we pulled into Montpelier we had a support crew just like NASCAR,” he said. “We told them to set up at the very last sign so we didn’t have to look for them. We pulled in and we had five or six people there changing our water bottles out, one water one Gatorade, handing us burgers. We had to eat real food because you can only handle so much gel.” Garner says in a long race the body begins to crave real food. Energy supplements don’t fully satisfy the appetite he developed.

“We’d soft pedal so we could get some good drink and food in us and then it was over Geneva Pass which didn’t last too long,” he said. “Then it was on to Salt River and it’s one steep mother. On the winding road you can almost count the dotted lines, so on that climb you have to settle in, get good climbing speed and then let it rip down into Afton.”

On the road it was the sound of humming tires and riders pushing bike chains. Minutes turned to hours, and hours into more hours, up hills, down hills, and through the curves, Garner says it was more than phys-

Endurance athletes run an emotional rollercoaster in long races like the LOTOJA. Riders confess they worry, get depressed, even get angry at times and once they overcome all the hurdles they face yet another curveball known as “the wall.” “Here’s what’s crazy, there’s the emo-

tional part of the race,” recalled Garner. “I thought it would be at the finish line, there’s my wife Toni, the kids all that stuff. But it wasn’t the case. I looked at my partner and said ‘why do I feel like bawling?’ he said ‘I don’t know man; I’ve just gone through it too.’ Once you turn that corner at Alpine there something mentally that goes on in your head, we’re about there! We both got the second wind and had a good race from Alpine to the finish.” After over 10 hours on the bike, Garner, the 47-year-old race rookie, still had enough energy to sprint to the finish in Jackson. However, elation turned to panic inside the last 30 yards as he started cramping. Undaunted he pedaled with one leg, against a background of American flags waving in the wind, finishing the toughest one-day road race in the United States.

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

35


Marketbasket Survey Retail Staple Food Prices Edge Down in Third Quarter WASHINGTON, D.C — Retail food prices at the supermarket dipped slightly during the third quarter of 2010, according to the latest American Farm Bureau Federation Marketbasket Survey. The informal survey shows the total cost of 16 food items that can be used to prepare one or more meals was $46.17, down $1.03 or 2 percent compared to the second quarter of 2010. The total average price for the 16 items was down 12 cents compared to one year ago. Of the 16 items surveyed, 10 decreased and six increased in average price compared to the prior quarter. Sliced deli ham, sirloin tip roast, flour, bread and eggs declined the most in dollar value compared to the second quarter. Sliced deli ham decreased 58 cents to $4.66 per pound; sirloin tip roast decreased 24 cents to $3.86 per pound; flour dropped 20 cents to $2.15 for a 5-pound bag; bread dropped 15 cents to $1.61 for a 20-ounce loaf; and eggs dropped 12 cents to $1.41 per dozen. “Overall, retail food prices have been relatively stable in 2010,” said AFBF Economist John Anderson. “Price data collected by our volunteer shoppers during the third quarter of the year shows that pattern is continuing to hold.” Other items that decreased in price since the second quarter were toasted oat cereal, down 11 cents to $2.84 for a 9-ounce box; shredded cheddar cheese, down 7 cents to $4.09 per pound; vegetable oil, down 6 cents to $2.55 for a 32-ounce bottle; bagged salad, down 5 cents to $2.75 for a 1-pound bag; and orange juice, down 3 cents for a half36

gallon to $2.97. Most items showing a decrease in retail price this quarter also showed year-toyear declines. Compared to one year ago, flour fell 13 percent, bread was down 8 percent, vegetable oil dropped 6 percent and orange juice was 5 percent lower. Six foods increased slightly in price compared to the prior quarter: boneless chicken breasts, up 19 cents to $3.44 per pound; Russet potatoes, up 12 cents to $2.63 for a 5-pound bag; bacon, up 11 cents to $3.64 per pound; whole milk, up 10 cents to $3.16 per gallon; apples, up 4 cents to $1.50 per pound; and ground chuck, up 2 cents to $2.91 per pound. “In general, meat demand has improved quite a bit since 2009,” Anderson said. “Typically, when the economy slows and consumer confidence slips as we saw happen during the third quarter, retail demand holds up better for lower-priced products, which is consistent with what our shoppers reported.” The year-to-year direction of the marketbasket survey tracks with the federal government’s Consumer Price Index (www.bls.gov/cpi) report for food at home. As retail grocery prices have increased gradually over time, the share of the average food dollar that America’s farm and ranch families receive has dropped. “In the mid-1970s, farmers received about one-third of consumer retail food expenditures

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

for food eaten at home and away from home, on average. Since then, that figure has decreased steadily and is now just 19 percent, according to Agriculture Department statistics,” Anderson said. Using the “food at home and away from home” percentage across-the-board, the farmer’s share of this quarter’s $46.17 marketbasket would be $8.77. AFBF, the nation’s largest general farm organization, has been conducting the informal quarterly marketbasket survey of retail food price trends since 1989. The mix of foods in the marketbasket was updated during the first quarter of 2008. According to USDA, Americans spend just under 10 percent of their disposable annual income on food, the lowest average of any country in the world. A total of 62 shoppers in 33 states participated in the latest survey, conducted in August.


Tracking Milk and Egg Trends For the third quarter of 2010, shoppers reported the average price for a half-gallon of regular whole milk was $2.04, down 2 cents from the prior quarter. The average price for one gallon of regular whole milk was $3.16, up 10 cents. Comparing per-quart prices, the retail price for whole milk sold in gallon containers was about 25 percent lower compared to half-gallon containers, a typical volume discount long employed by retailers. The average price for a half-gallon of rBST-free milk was $3.36, down 2 cents from the last quarter, about 65 percent higher than the reported retail price for a half-gallon of regular milk ($2.04). The average price for a half-gallon of organic milk was $3.62, down 3 cents compared to the prior quarter–about 80 percent higher than the reported retail price for a half-gallon of regular milk ($2.04). Compared to a year ago (third quarter of 2009), the retail price for regular milk in gallon containers was up about 10 percent while regular milk in half-gallon containers increased 8 percent. The average retail price for rBST-free milk increased about 1 percent in a year’s time. The average retail price for organic milk in half-gallon containers dropped about 4 percent compared to the prior year. For the third quarter of 2010, the average price for one dozen regular eggs was $1.41. The average price for a dozen “cage-free” eggs was $2.90, more than double the cost of regular eggs. Compared to a year ago (third quarter of 2009), regular eggs decreased 2 percent while “cage-free” eggs decreased 5 percent.

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

37


Focus on Agriculture

World Farmers Need Lots of Tools By Dal Grooms Farmers know it’s important to keep more than one tool in the toolbox. A variety of tools provide farmers the ability to make lasting repairs that keep equipment working during crucial deadlines of planting or harvest. After spending nearly a full week with well-meaning folks who tout one solution or another for solving world hunger, it’s clear that farmers will need to use a variety of tools to come up with a strategic solution. The World Food Prize celebration and Norman Borlaug International Symposium that took place Oct. 13-15 in Des Moines, Iowa, was jam-packed with highly regarded researchers, advocates for solving hunger, and policy makers. They spoke from stages about their lofty ideas for solving world hunger. If you found the few actual farmers who attended the event, you could see in their eyes which ideas they knew could be part of the solution, and which ideas just weren’t workable. 38

When speakers talked about combining ideas from high technology (biotech crops) and low technology (crop rotation to build soil quality), farmers nodded their heads readily. They recognized an approach many already use: getting the most return from their tools by selecting and using them wisely. Head-nodding quickly vanished when a speaker espoused throwing out all the tools but one. It didn’t matter if the one highly revered tool was genetically modified seed or organic production. Farmers know that just as it takes more than one tool to fix a tractor, it takes more than one tool to efficiently produce and market crops and livestock needed to feed the world’s ever-growing population. Farmers were also hesitant to embrace the sole idea that all resources must be targeted to very small farms. Even small-holder farmers (those with 2-3 acres of land or less) recognized that simply improving their production is not going to feed an ex-

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

pected world population of over 10 billion people in 2050. These small-holder farmers have their sights set on feeding their families and having enough extra production to sell to a few neighbors. They want to improve their economic positions, as well as address local hunger problems. But asking—and expecting—that they alone can increase their production to the point that they’ll feed 200-plus people from their 2-3 acres is pushing them down a path of failure. The world’s farmers will find a lasting solution for producing enough food for all. Let’s make sure that all farmers, large and small, have all the tools they need. Dal Grooms, a regular contributor to Focus on Agriculture, is a native of the Midwest, where she writes about rural and agricultural issues.


County Happenings

Several hundred Pocatello area fourth grade students attended the Swore Farms Field Day this year. The event is sponsored by the Bannock County Farm Bureau. Photo Courtesy of Amber Petersen

Mike Swore of Swore Farms speaks to Bannock County fourth-graders about agriculture during a recent field day event. Swore is a Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Idaho employee. Photo Courtesy of Amber Petersen

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

39


IFBF to Host 15th Annual MexicoTour The Idaho Farm Bureau will be conducting its 15th Annual Tour February 17-26, 2011. The tour will begin in Guadalajara, Mexico. The group will spend four nights at the Hotel De Mendoza located in the city’s historical district. There is a full schedule of agricultural, historical and cultural activities planned for the area.

Hotel & Resort for four nights. This is a great Hotel located on the beach with beautiful accommodations and pools. The tour will be visiting plantations of tropical fruits, mango, papaya and coconut as well as the village of Petatlan where brick and tile are made by hand. The fishing village of Barra de Potosi is also on the schedule.

It’s then off to Mexico City where we will be visiting the ancient City of Teotihuacan, a great archaeological site which contains the third largest pyramid in the world. We will then tour the historical center of Mexico City.

This tour will not be the typical tourist trip as the activities have been organized to have a real Mexico experience as well as time to relax. Space is limited. For information concerning the tour call Gary Fuhriman at 239-4206 or 241-0243 or Peg Pratt at 239-4228.

The next morning the group flies to the ZihuatenjoIxtapa area. The group will be staying at the Krystal

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Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010


Idaho Farm Bureau Discount Program Step 1: Members go to sears.com and find the product(s) they are interested in and write down the product/model number(s). Step 2: Members email the product number(s) to Farm Bureau’s designated contact at Sears Appliance Select: wgill03@searshc.com for a quote. To receive this pricing a member must include their Farm Bureau membership number and Farm Bureau discount code CU068062 in the email. Step 3: After receiving a quote (allow 2-3 business days), members can then choose to use a credit card to purchase the discounted item(s) and it will be delivered via a custom freight company.

THIS OFFER IS NOT AVAILABLE THROUGH SEARS RETAIL OR DEALER All manufacturer warranties apply with the option to purchase extended Sears Protection Agreements. Installation is not included with delivery.

For more information call (208) 239-4289

Exclusively For Farm Bureau Members Members can pick up discounted tickets from one of the following Farm Bureau county offices: Boise - Nampa - Caldwell - Meridian - Coeur d’Alene - Post Falls - Idaho Falls - Pocatello Regular Price For Evening Show (Ages 12-59)

Farm Bureau Price

Regular Price For Evening Show (Ages 12-64)

Farm Bureau Price

$10

$7.50

Regal Riverstone Stadium 14 Coeur D’Alene

$9

$7.50

Some restrictions apply. Contact a Farm Bureau county office listed above for details. Prices subject to change.

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / Fall 2010

41


Classifieds

Free Classified ads online for Farm Bureau members. www.idahofbclassifieds.com Animals

Household

Services

Wanted

Wanted

We need to find loving homes for our 30+ alpacas, males and females. We’ve raised them for 16 years, must move on. Nothing priced over $1,000. We’ll take payments. Caldwell, Id. Diane 208-407-2406

Treadle sewing machine can be electric. Comes with motor and set up for electric or just use the treadle. Brand - White Company. $250. Sandpoint, Id 208-263-8310

Appraisal Services: Joe Bennett, Hagerman, Idaho. Certified with the American Society of Agricultural Appraisers, specializing in Farm Equipment, Livestock, and Equine appraisals. Will travel. Call me today for your next appraisal. (208) 837-6523 or 539-0111.

Buying U.S. gold coins, proof and mint sets, silver dollars, rolls and bags. PCGS/NGC certified coins, estates, accumulations, large collections, investment portfolios, bullion, platinum. Will travel, all transactions confidential. Please call 208-859-7168

Old License Plates Wanted: Also key chain license plates, old signs, light fixtures. Will pay cash. Please email, call or write. Gary Peterson, 130 E Pecan, Genesee, Id 83832. gearlep@gmail.com. 208-2851258

Vehicles

Paying cash for German & Japanese war relics/souvenirs! Pistols, rifles, swords, daggers, flags, scopes, optical equipment, uniforms, helmets, machine guns (ATF rules apply) medals, flags, etc. 549-3841 (evenings) or 208-405-9338.

FREE CLASSIFIEDS IN PRINT & ONLINE!

We are offering 4 lovely merino ewes, all are black and fine. They were all born in 2009 and are not bred. Asking $125.00 a piece OBO. Caldwell, Id. Diane 208-4072406

“Natural Soap” All natural soap hand crafted from olive, coconut and palm oils. Gives a gentile and silky smooth wash. 12 different fragrances, Lavender, Lemongrass etc. Great for gift giving or for yourself. 4oz Bar $3.75ea. Call Mark. 208-461-2135.

Farm Equipment

Miscellaneous

1978 4 wheel drive Ford tractor with front end loader and box blade. Original paper work. Model A1012T – 1600. $6,300 OBO 208539-7788

Aluminum Pick-up Topper by Leer, Fits ’84 Chevy eight-foot bed. 74 ½” wide and 98” long approximately 6’x8’ with racks, sliding front window, lockable rear door. Very good condition, kept undercover much of its life. Asking $300 Phone 208-354-2585

1460 International Combine. Low hours. American Falls 241-0005. Balewagons: New Holland selfpropelled or pull-type models. Also interested in buying balewagons. Will consider any model. Call Jim Wilhite at 208-880-2889 anytime Help Wanted

Appraisal Career Opportunity. Earn $60,000/yr part time. Farm Equipment and Livestock appraisal training and certification. Agricultural background required. Classroom or Home Study courses available. (800) 488-7570. www. amagappraisers.com

Horse harness, 14 inch collar, breeching, for 1000 lb horse, adjustable. The whole set up for $550. Sandpoint, Id 208-263-8310 Flag poles by Old Sarge. Custom made from 2” galvanized poles. Any length, 16-30 ft. Check us out. Wilford Green, 2618 N. Inkom Rd. Inkom, Id 208-775-3490

Recreational Equipment House Boat Live Aboard. 70 HP Outboard with trailer. Pocatello, Id 208-233-1681

2008 Subaru Outback 2.5l. Excellent condition, only 21,000 ml. 4 speed auto transmission with sports lift, auto dim mirrors/ compass home link, tow hitch, PZEV, all weather floor mats. Original owner, no accidents, only $ 19995. Grangeville, ID. Call Linda at 208-451-0871 2009 Ford Super Duty new in 2010. 4x4, automatic trans., 5.4: motor, air conditioning., AM & FM radio, mp3 player, trailer brake, receiver hitch, air sensor tires, 1,938 miles. $27,000 OBO. Boise, Id 208-376-1199

Wanted Old Farm Bureau Metal sign that reads “Idaho Farm Bureau” on one side, and possibly had “stop sign” on the other. Must be in fairly good condition. Please e-mail replies to: yssandi@live. com or call 208-724-6727 Used mobile homes, to move only, will consider all types. Please reply with age of manufacture, Size, detailed condition description to: dlankfo@hotmail.com

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE

FOR FARM BUREAU MEMBERS WWW.IDAHOFBCLASSIFIEDS.COM 42

Idaho Farm Bureau Quarterly / FALL 2010

DEADLINE DATES:

ADS MUST BE RECEIVED BY JANUARY 20 FOR NEXT ISSUE OF THE QUARTERLY FREE CLASSIFIEDS Non commercial classified ads are free to Idaho Farm Bureau members. Must include membership number for free ad. Forty (40) words maximum. Non-member cost- 50 cents per word. You may advertise your own crops, livestock, used machinery, household items, vehicles, etc. Ads will not be accepted by phone. Ads run one time only and must be re-submitted in each subsequent issue. We reserve the right to refuse to run any ad. Please type or print clearly. Proof-read your ad.

Mail ad copy to: P.O. Box 4848, Pocatello, ID 83205-4848 or email Dixie at DASHTON@IDAHOFB.ORG Name: __________________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________ City / State / Zip: __________________________________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________________ Membership No. ___________________ Ad Copy: ________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________


New Discount Benefit! For Farm Bureau members who are new or existing Gold’s Gym members. Present Farm Bureau membership card to participating gym.

Locations Blackfoot 1250 West Bridge St. Blackfoot, ID 83221 Phone: 208-785-4338 Boise - Fairview 7316 West Fairview Boise, ID 83704 Phone: 208-377-GOLD Boise - Parkcenter 801 East Park Center Blvd Boise, ID 83706 Phone: 208-345-GOLD Idaho Falls 3135 E. 17th Street, Ammon, ID 83406 Phone: 208-524-4653

Farm Bureau Discount 10-20% off monthly membership nrollment For New Me E d mbe ive rs Wa Lewiston 621 Bryden Ave, Ste. G Lewiston, ID 83501 Phone: 208-798-8888 Meridian 1455 Country Terrace Ct. Meridian, ID 83642 Phone: 208-323-GOLD Pocatello 1800 Flandro Drive Suite 200 Pocatello, ID 83201 Phone: 208-237-4653 Twin Falls 1471 Fillmore Street Suite B Twin Falls, ID 83301 Phone: 208-733-GOLD

Have Questions? Call 208-239-4289


and then hits you.

OTELS Inn uites Inn nn n Suites odge Inn

You mean I’ve had Farm Bureau discount benefits this entire time? RENTAL CARS Hertz Enterprise Avis

APPLIANCES Sears Commercial HEALTH INSURANCE Blue Cross

DODGE VEHICLE $500 REBATE Ram Nitro Journey Charge Dakota Durang Caliber Avenge Grand Caravan

HEARING SUMMER FUN Clear Value - Siemens Lagoon BULK FUEL American Hearing Benefits Roaring Springs CBC Silverwood COMPUTERS Wahooz Family Fun Zone AUTO TIRES Dell San Diego Zoo Commercial Tire HOTELS Sea World 8 EYE CARE Cub River Guest Ranch MEDICATION nn Coast-to-Coast Hansen Guest Ranch The Canadian Pharm dge Qualsight - “LASIK” Grand Targhee (Summer) New Benefits Pharm Inn Hell’s Canyon Adventures m OFFICE SUPPLIES Teton Springs Resort (Winter) CELL PHONE Inns Office Depot T-Mobile hnson WINTER SKIING t Inn LIFEFLIGHT Pebble Creek SHUTTLE amada EIRMC


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