FRONT PORCH Spring 2014
A showcase of future big league talent June 24th at Dickey-Stephens Park
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Front Porch
Farm Bureau
Spring 2014
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Matters by Randy Veach
President, Arkansas Farm Bureau
I was fortunate to be among 20 or so
4 in cottonseed, grain sorghum and turkeys
state business, legislative and economic
– and were surprised to learn agriculture has
development leaders to meet recently with
the largest economic impact in the state,
two officials from the United Kingdom.
generating $17 billion and one in every six
They were in Arkansas to promote the
jobs.
Transatlantic Trade and Investment
On the Cover — Los Angeles Angels sensation Mike Trout graces our cover in a photo from his allstar playing days with the Arkansas Travelers. Dickey-Stephens Park will host this year’s Texas League AllStar Game on June 24, giving fans a chance to see future big league stars. Photo courtesy of the Arkansas Travelers Send comments to: frontporch@arfb.com
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2014 All-Star Game Ken Moore
14 Great Grub
We specifically encouraged the EU
Partnership (TTIP).
to reevaluate its regulations and begin
The officials – British Consulate General
the process of opening markets to more
Andrew Millar and Mark Kent, first secretary
U.S. agricultural goods. We already have
for the British Embassy in Washington,
significant trading relationships with EU
D.C. – are negotiators for the European
countries — conducting $2 billion a day in
Union (EU) and were guests of Arkansas
business — roughly one-third of all global
World Trade Center President Dan Hendrix
activity. However, the EU hasn’t been an
and officials from the Arkansas Economic
especially cooperative trading partner when
Development Commission.
it comes to agricultural products.
Chances are you’ve never heard of
In the past, the EU has used food recalls
TTIP. It’s a proposed free-trade agreement
as a reason to defensively block U.S. food
between the United States and the EU.
products. The countries of the EU also put
Keith Sutton
You’ll hear more about it as negotiations
severe restrictions on genetically enhanced
3
intensify and it comes up for a vote in
crops. The EU has allowed emotion, not
Congress later this year. TTIP would
science, to drive some of its trade decisions.
Farm Bureau Matters Randy Veach Thinking Out Loud Rodney Baker
eliminate industrial, agricultural and service
That position must be addressed in any
tariffs. If agreed upon, it would be the
free-trade discussion.
Stephanie Buckley
largest bilateral trade agreement ever.
28 32 34 36
P. Allen Smith Land & People Gregg Patterson Health & Safety Keith Sutton In the Kitchen Heather Disarro Building Wealth Allyson Hamlin
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24 Taste Arkansas
26 Garden Home Design
For address changes, contact:
Rhonda Whitley at rhonda.whitley@arfb.com Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation Farm Bureau Center P.O. Box 31 Little Rock, AR 72203-0031 Fax: (501) 228-1557 Please provide membership number.
pcipublishing.com Created by Publishing Concepts, Inc. For Advertising info contact David Brown • 1-800-561-4686 dbrown@pcipublishing.com
My hope is we’ve turned a corner with
As part of the visit, the officials
EU leaders. The presence of two UK officials
expressed support for trade promotion
in Little Rock to discuss the proposed free-
authority. This would allow the president
trade agreement was encouraging. After
of the United States to negotiate trade
visiting with them, I believe they want a
agreements independent of Congressional
trading relationship built on mutual trust
involvement. Congress ultimately votes on
and respect for the food-safety protocols
the agreement but with no amendments
already in place.
or filibusters. This is a policy Farm Bureau
We will be seeking support for TTIP
previously supported and continues to do
from our congressional delegation and
so, because it allows trade decisions to be
will work to ensure agricultural trade is
made without getting caught in a political
paramount in the discussion as it moves
tug-of-war.
through the negotiation and legislative
Much of our conversation that day
process. Arkansas’ economic relationship
focused on agriculture, our state’s largest
with the EU is already strong. A successful
industry. While the two foreign officials
conclusion of TTIP would contribute
were aware of our state’s heft in the poultry
significantly to the state’s future economic
industry, they were less familiar with the
growth.
broader reach of agriculture in our state –
God bless you and your families. God
No. 1 nationally in rice, No 2 in broilers,
bless our farmers and ranchers. And God
No. 3 in catfish and upland cotton and No.
bless Arkansas Farm Bureau.
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Front Porch Arkansas Farm Bureau © 2014 Official membership publication of Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation. Front Porch is mailed to more than 192,000 member-families. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Included in membership dues. Arkansas Farm Bureau Officers: President Randy Veach Manila Vice President Rich Hillman Carlisle Secretary/Treasurer Joe Christian Jonesboro Executive Vice President Rodney Baker Little Rock Directors: Troy Buck, Alpine Jon Carroll, Moro Terry Dabbs, Stuttgart Sherry Felts, Joiner Mike Freeze, England Bruce Jackson, Lockesburg Tom Jones, Pottsville Johnny Loftin, El Dorado Gene Pharr, Lincoln Rusty Smith, Des Arc Allen Stewart, Mena Leo Sutterfield, Mountain View Joe Thrash, Conway
Y
Ex Officio Josh Cureton, Jonesboro Brent Lassiter, Newport Janice Marsh, McCrory Peggy Miller, Lake Village Executive Editor: Steve Eddington Editor: Gregg Patterson Contributing Writers: Ken Moore, Keith Sutton, Chris Wilson Research Assistant: Brenda Gregory ADVERTISING: Contact David Brown at Publishing Concepts, Inc. for advertising rates. dbrown@pcipublishing.com (501) 221-9986 Fax (501) 225-3735 Front Porch (USPS 019-879) is published bi-monthly by the Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation, 10720 Kanis Rd., Little Rock, AR 72211. Periodicals Postage paid at Little Rock, Ark. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Front Porch, P.O. Box 31, Little Rock, AR 72203. Issue #91. Publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising requests.
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Thinking Out Loud by RODNEY BAKER
Executive Vice President, Arkansas Farm Bureau
Your Arkansas Farm Bureau
membership matters. It allows us to use the strength of our more than
Development, America’s largest supplier of private discount content. You’ll have thousands of “show
192,000 family memberships to
your phone” coupons you can
advocate on behalf of your interests
access and redeem while on the go
and the interests of agriculture – the
with your busy life. The best part is
farmers and ranchers – who grow
there’s no cost to you. It’s the latest
the food for our tables, the fiber
advantage to being an Arkansas Farm
for our clothing, the wood for our
Bureau member.
housing and even some of the new
This is a great new member
cleaner burning alternative energy
benefit and gives you, as Farm
sources. Your membership matters
Bureau members, a reason to engage
to you, because it provides access to
with us on a daily basis, as well as
numerous products and services that
recoup in discount savings the cost
help protect and enhance the things
of your membership. It’s a win-win
and people closest to you.
for everyone. Arkansas Farm Bureau
We’re always looking for new
supports membership with political
and convenient ways to make your
actions, insurance programs and other
Arkansas Farm Bureau membership
benefits. Now, this coming discount
more valuable in your day-to-day
program also recognizes the need to
life. Our present programs
provide daily, tangible value
provide savings on more
to you as a valued Arkansas
than 70 new models of
Farm Bureau member.
General Motors Corp.
Statistics show the
vehicle products, hotel
majority of consumers look
savings, discounts
for deals before making
on child safety and
a purchase. Now, you’ll
booster seats, health
benefit that way by having
care products, as well as in-home
access to local and national deals
products.
you’ll use regularly.
So I’m excited to announce
We continue to evaluate our
that we’ll soon launch a discount
member programs and services, so
program app you can load on your
you can get the best from your Farm
smartphone or access from your
Bureau membership. Start looking for
home computer that will provide our
the Savings Plus logo soon on arfb.
members with thousands of money
com. All you’ll need to do is click
saving opportunities in hometowns
on it to register for the Savings Plus
and local communities throughout
program and begin enjoying the
the state. It’s called FB Savings
everyday savings. It’s another good
Plus. It’s a partnership between
reason to have an Arkansas Farm
Arkansas Farm Bureau and Access
Bureau family membership.
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JUMp INto tHE
MUsIC Bing Futch
Sarah Morgan
Rick Thum
et connected to the living tradition of music with our dulcimer workshops. Whether you are a player, or a listener, you’ll find a connection at the Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View, Arkansas.
Judy Klinkhammer
April 24-26 • Dulcimer Jamboree Workshops, jams and special concerts featuring some of the best instructors for both mountain and hammered dulcimers, including Aubrey Atwater, Tina Bergman, Bing Futch, Judy Klinkhammer, Sarah Morgan and Rick Thum.
July 24-26 • Mountain Dulcimer Workshop Three-day intensive class open to players of all skill levels.
July 31-August 2 • Hammered Dulcimer Workshop Three days of instruction to improve your technique and add to your repertoire.
Scan with mobile QR Reader for more info.
M O U N T A I N V I E W, A R K A N S A S
Registration: 870-269-3851 • Cabins at Dry Creek reservations: 800-269-3871 OzarkFolkCenter.com
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r a St l l A
The 2014
Texas League
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Tuesday, June 24, Dickey-Stephens Park, home of
League Baseball (MLB) players and All-Stars. Scanning
the Arkansas Travelers in North Little Rock, will host
the box score from the 2006 All-Star game at Ray
the Texas League All-Star game, and you’ll not want to
Winder you see names such as Troy Tulowitski, an All-
miss it.
Star with the Colorado Rockies, Hunter Pence of the
9 e m a G r The last time the All-Star game was played in Pulaski
San Francisco Giants, Ben Zobrist of the Tampa Bay
County was in 2006 at Ray Winder Field, the year
Rays, Kurt Suzuki of the Minnesota Twins and Chris
before the Travelers moved to their new home on the
Ianetta of the Los Angeles Angels. The winning pitcher
banks of the Arkansas River.
was Ubaldo Jimenez, who came up through the Rockies
The game has been a showcase for future Major
organization and is now with the Baltimore Orioles.
A showcase of future big league talent by Ken Moore Photos courtesy of Arkansas Travelers
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Fan favorites Catcher Hank Conger (left) and outfielder Peter Bourjos (bottom) each enjoyed the camaraderie developed with fans at Dickey-Stephens Park during their All-Star stays with the Travelers in 2009. Conger is now playing for the Los Angeles Angels while Bourjos plays centerfield for the St. Louis Cardinals. better than most players, an ability to just get on base consistently. The knowledge of just how to play the game seems to come to him. When he was here he was 19 years old. Even at that time he had a greater idea of what he was doing and his sense of the game than any 19-year-old I think I will ever see.” Trout fondly remembers his short stay with the Travs. “I really enjoyed my time in Little Rock and was The Travelers became the AA
amazed at the passion of the fans. I
affiliate for the Los Angeles Angels in
loved the city and the atmosphere
2001, and a number of major league
the fans provided every night.”
players have spent time in Little Rock.
Future Angels’ teammates of
Fans who followed the team in recent
Trout’s who played for the Travs
years remember the names Eric Aybar, Howie Kendrick,
included Bourjos and Conger. A common theme for the
Mike Napoli, Hank Conger, Garrett Richards, Mark
players about their time playing in central Arkansas was
Trumbo, Peter Bourjos, Jean Segura, Randal Grichuk and,
the passion and loyalty of the fans.
most notably, Mike Trout.
“The fans really understand the game and want to
Fans then may not have known just how special a
get to know the players,” Bourjos said during a phone
player Trout would become. He played in the All-Star
call from the St. Louis Cardinals’ spring training facility.
game for the Travs in 2011 and then would go on to be
After being called up and playing parts of four seasons
named the 2012 American League Rookie of the Year and
for the Angels, he was traded to the Cardinals in the
Most Valuable Player runner-up for the Angels in 2012
offseason.
and 2013.
“It was great to play in the Texas League All-Star
“Mike Trout was in a category all his own,” said Phil
game alongside future big leaguers like my teammate
Elson, the radio voice of the Travelers the past 13 years.
Mark Trumbo. I remember hitting against Matt Latos
“No question, he’s the best player I’ve ever seen up close.
who is with the (Cincinnati) Reds and thinking this
I grew up in Pittsburgh watching Barry Bonds turn into a
guy is good,” Bourjos said. “I really encourage even the
star, and I would put Trout on that level.”
casual baseball fan to come out and attend the (All-
Trout played a little less than one full season for the
Star) game. You’ll have opportunities to meet and get
Travs, having been called up by the Angels in September
autographs from players you may be watching on ESPN
while the Travs were playing in the Texas League
the very next season.”
championship series.
Conger is a catcher for the Angels now and played
“What sets Trout apart is he’s not just a 5-tool player,
with Bourjos in 2009.
he’s got a 6th tool, like a 6th sense. The 5 tools are
“I vividly remember certain fans who were at the
understood to be able to hit for average, power, run,
park day after day,” Conger said. “In the minors it’s
throw and have good speed,” Elson said. The 6th sense
more relaxed before the games, and it was great getting
is essentially the ability to understand the strike zone
to know some of the loyal fans who got to the park early
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All-Star savvy Pitcher Garrett Richards (above) was another Travs All-Star in 2011. Shortstop Jean Segura was a Texas League All-Star for the Travs in 2012 then shot to the top as a National League All-Star for the Milwaukee Brewers last year. and chatted with us while we were warming up. Some of them continue to follow me on Twitter, and that’s really cool.”
just a social event,” Grichuk said. “Many of them are
Dickey-Stephens Park has become known as a
season ticket holders and made it to the park several
“pitcher-friendly” park where it’s difficult to hit home
times a week. They followed us faithfully and made it a
runs. That should make it interesting to see how many are
point to get to know us.
hit out during the home-run derby prior to the game. One of Conger’s All-Star game memories was watching his good friend Trumbo (now with the Arizona
“Even though I’m in the Cardinals’ organization now, some of them are still keeping up with me on social media, and that’s pretty cool.”
Diamondbacks) win the home-run derby in 2009. Fans who followed the Travelers last season will
Garrett Richards, a right-handed pitcher with the Angels, was an All-Star for the Travs in 2011.
remember outfielder Randal Grichuk who represented
“I always felt at home playing in Little Rock,” he
the team in the All-Star game hosted by the Northwest
said. “The talent throughout the league was tremendous,
Arkansas Naturals at Arvest Park in Springdale.
and it was always a challenge taking the mound in the
Grichuk was part of the deal that sent Bourjos to St.
Texas League.”
Louis and is now a member of the Cardinals’ system. He echoed the comments that playing in central Arkansas was special.
Elson has been with the team long enough to appreciate the history of baseball here and the support the two river cities have given the Travelers through the
“For many of our fans, coming to the park was not
years.
Save the Date The Texas League All-Star Game, June 24, is sponsored by the Farm Bureau Insurance companies and is truly a family friendly event. The Travelers are going all-out to “pack the park.” “We are honored to have the opportunity to host the 78th Annual Texas League All-Star Game for the first time here at Dickey-Stephens Park,” said Drew Williams, director of tickets and corporate sales for the Travelers. “This game gives us the chance to showcase the community, our beautiful park and some of the top talent in all of Minor League Baseball. Featuring live entertainment, player autographs, a pregame home-run derby, great baseball and a postgame fireworks show. This event has all your favorite promotions all wrapped into one day.”
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Congratulations, Arkansas Travelers and Dickey-Stephens Park for being selected as hosts for the 2014 Texas League All-Star Game.
All-Star Service Since 1947.
Bill Dickey | All-Star. Arkansan.
“I honestly believe it’s unrivaled by any other place in the league,” Elson said. “You have a franchise that has been using the same name since its inception. Not many teams can say that. Six major league Hall of Famers played here, including Bill Dickey of the Yankees, who the park is named after. That’s more than some big league teams can boast. “But what matters to the players is that there are people in the seats, the ballpark’s nice, the clubhouse is good,” Elson said. “No doubt the players appreciate the atmosphere the fans provide. That’s one thing that will make baseball stand out in a city is that special atmosphere in the park night after night. Fans here have had character, whether it was ‘HookSlide’ Bradshaw doing his thing entertaining fans in the third base bleachers at Ray Winder Field or our bleacher fans at Dickey-Stephens. “Get tickets to the All-Star game. Make plans to arrive early to take in all that the team has planned,” Elson said. “It will be a fun time for the kids and whole family. You won’t want to miss it.” And enjoy seeing some future MLB stars.
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Step by step Randall Grichuk hit 22 home runs for the Travs last year and made the Texas League All-Star team. The talented outfielder was drafted ahead of Angels superstar and former Travelers’ All-Star Mike Trout. Grichuk is steadily climbing the ladder to the big leagues and is just a phone call away. He’s playing for the Cardinals AAA Memphis Redbirds.
YOUR TRIP BEGINS HERE
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KNOW THE RISK BEAT THE ODDS The Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation helps Arkansas men beat the odds through education, free screenings, advocacy and its statewide network of support groups. Join Us for Dads & Dugouts Prostate Cancer Awareness Night Dickey Stephens Park Saturday, June 7
501.379.8027 or 1.800.338.1383 www.arprostatecancer.org
Trouble HEARING on the Phone
? Free* captioned telephone service from Arkansas Relay offers the ability for anyone with hearing loss to communicate on the telephone independently.
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T A E GR ! B U R G
Enjoying some of Arkansas’ interesting eateries Photos and article by Keith Sutton
Simply Marvelous Mrs. May serves an order of Sims’ famous ribs.
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I used to wonder why Arkansas doesn’t have its own
trademark cuisine. We often associate Louisiana with its scrumptious Cajun-Creole cookery. Folks in the Keystone State are known for their German-style Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. Texans have Tex-Mex, Floridians have Floribbean, and our friends in South Carolina and Georgia make us lick our lips with the seafood, grits and rice dishes distinctive of their Lowcountry cooking. So why haven’t Arkansans developed a special cuisine
we can call our own? Having traveled thousands of miles around Arkansas
and eaten with folks in nearly every county, I think I have an answer. For Arkansans, variety is spice. We like foods of all kinds. And while untold numbers of great cooks — professional and non-professional — live here, they’ve never gotten our citizens to focus on one style of cooking long enough to develop an Arkansawyer cuisine. That’s not a bad thing, however. If you like eating as much as me, the resulting hodgepodge of delectable eats one can find while traveling the Natural State provides a never-ending source of tastebud-titillating pleasure. From great Southern-style cooking to superb foreign cuisine and everything in between, Arkansas has it. Look hard enough and you’ll discover many specialty dishes created by Arkansas chefs and served nowhere else in the world.
One huge sandwich A happy Bucket List customer tries unsuccessfully to polish off one of the restaurant’s enormous double bacon cheeseburgers.
So how do you find all this great grub? Start with the following guide to some of the best bites in the
What to order: The menu is extensive for
Natural State. And while traveling from here to there
a country establishment seating 32. Breakfast
sampling tasty tidbits at these wonderful restaurants,
selections include regular morning fare, plus the
watch for other cafés, drive-ins, diners, coffee shops,
Bucket List’s own hungry-man pileups like the
grills, cafeterias, sandwich shops, dairy bars, food trucks,
Sloppy Sherryl (hash browns, biscuits, eggs and
bistros, saloons and greasy spoons where good food
choice of ham, bacon, breakfast sausage, Italian
awaits the hungry traveler. No matter where you go in
sausage or bologna stacked and smothered with
Arkansas, another memorable meal is somewhere just
gravy) and the 55-Gallon Lid Pancake. (It’s really as
around the corner.
big as the top of a 55-gallon drum. If you can eat it in an hour, it’s free.) Lunch selections are more
Conway County Cuisine
extensive with a variety of home-style plate lunches
Bucket List Café
and sides. Favorites include many items piled high
Center Ridge Pay attention to the address because this hole-
with delicious local ingredients, like the monstrous
in-the-wall north of I-40 at Morrilton has no sign
a hoagie loaded with locally made Italian sausage,
to indicate the metal building is a restaurant.
three cheeses and grilled onions. It won’t be easy,
Apparently it doesn’t need one as locals pack the
but leave room for dessert, too. The Fried Filookie is
place for breakfast and lunch seven days a week. The
highly recommended. It’s a battered, fried chocolate-
reason is simple. The friendly folks at the Bucket List
chip cookie cake with a molten chocolate center,
serve huge portions of delicious food at reasonable
smothered in ice cream, caramel and chocolate syrup.
prices, including specialties found nowhere else.
(5308 Highway 9, 501-893-9840)
Reuben with homemade kraut and the Salty Sam,
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Jonesboro’s Gem
Godsey’s Grill
Jonesboro The sign outside this downtown establishment says “Burgers, Sandwiches, Pizza, Steaks.” But there’s more to Godsey’s than meets the eye. The atmosphere is great for a business meeting or casual get-together. The bar has a great beer selection, and every item on the eight-page food menu is made in-house daily from fresh ingredients, including 21 types of burgers, 15 salads, an endless variety of wood-fired pizzas, juicy grilled-to-order steaks and much more. What to order: Godsey’s serves so many original dishes you could eat here every week for a year and not begin to try them all. Customer favorites include specials like Eggs Benedict with Spam and Duck Sliders (smoked marinated duck breast with spicy slaw and pickles on fresh
Down-home goodness Stuttgart’s County Gossip restaurant has earned a reputation for preparing delicious soups, sandwiches and salads, like this piled high pimento cheese with mac-and-tomato soup.
slider buns), plus regular menu items like the Cowboy Special sandwich (smoked bologna topped with tomato, bacon, fried egg and mayo served on Texas toast); the Piggy Pie barbecue pizza; the Fried Green Tomato BLT; and delicious bison steaks and burgers. Come hungry and start
Rice and Duck Capital Favorite
your meal with some of the best hot dips and homemade
Country Gossip
potato chips on the planet, including their one-of-a-
Stuttgart Billing itself as the “One Stop Country Shop,”
kind Hog Wild Dip with smoked pulled pork, bacon,
this quaint Main Street establishment sells country
godseysgrill.com)
cream cheese and spices. (226 S. Main St., 870-336-1988,
décor, furnishings and gifts in addition to great soups, sandwiches, salads and more. Four generations have worked in the 18-year-old business, a favorite of Grand Prairie regulars and out-of-town duck hunters. What to order: A friend who knows my penchant for a great pimento cheese sandwich recommended I drop in the Country Gossip and try theirs. “It’s the best,” she said. And she was right. I’d guess half a pound of the creamy, homemade spread was piled between two slices of toast with mayo and lettuce. It was almost as good as Mom used to make. With a bowl of mac-and-tomato soup on the side and a big cornbread muffin, it was too much to eat in one sitting. In addition to an extensive selection of sandwiches and salads, specials are posted daily, including scrumptious made-from-scratch soups like cheesy potato and chicken noodle, along with legendary Country Gossip entrées like chicken spaghetti and pinto beans with ham and cornbread. For a real treat that’s surprisingly hard to come by in the nation’s leading rice-producing state, find out when the Dessert of the Day will be their perfectly baked,
Wild pig The appetizer menu at Godsey’s Grill is extensive and includes such specialties such as Hog Wild Dip and homemade potato chips.
cinnamon-and-sugar-crusted rice pudding. It doesn’t get any better. (100 S. Main, 870-673-6115)
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One of a kind The Hoot’s Burger at Hoot’s BBQ in McGehee features a fried egg and caramelized onions on top.
Delta Delight
Burger topped with caramelized onions, bacon, cheddar
Hoot’s BBQ
cheese and a fried egg! On your way out, pick up a freshly
McGehee Hoot’s was a finalist for Arkansas Delta Byways’ 2014
made cake, pie, cookies or other goodies from the bakery.
Hospitality Award for its efforts to help promote tourism
(2008 Highway 64 N, 870-222-1234)
You’ll be so full you won’t have room to eat it there.
in eastern Arkansas. That’s a big honor for an eatery that just opened in May 2012, but that’s the kind of place this is. Folks come from miles around to enjoy the great food and stay for the fun atmosphere, friendly service, live music and great Arkansasstyle hospitality at this combination restaurant, bakery and bar. What to order: Delicious Southern-style barbecue made Hoot’s a local favorite from the day it opened: yummy brisket, smoked chicken, falling-off-the-bone ribs and barbecue sandwiches drenched in Hoot’s special sauces. The menu includes a wide variety of other delectable dishes as well, including chicken-fried steak, loaded baked potatoes, fried catfish, a blue-ribbon BBQ salad loaded with pork or brisket, and out-of-this-world burgers. My favorite: the one-of-a-kind Hoot’s
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17
77 Years and Counting
Sims’ Bar-B-Que
Little Rock Brothers George and Allen Sims, and their wives Estella and Amelia, founded Sims’ Bar-B-Que way back in 1937. George and Stella established a cafe in the little Arkansas community of Hardscrabble (Howard County), while Allen and Amelia opened a restaurant in uptown Little Rock. The siblings created a unique barbecue sauce to go with the tender meat they prepared with special seasonings and decided early on the meat should not be cooked too quickly. Superior barbecue required long, slow cooking to maximize the unique flavor. The sauce, seasonings and cooking technique are the special ingredients that have made Sims’ Bar-B-Que an Arkansas favorite for 77 years.
Blue ribbon sandwich Poppy’s Cuban contains grilled pork topped with lots of melted cheese.
Three locations are now available in Little Rock. What to order: You can close your eyes, poke your finger at a Sim’s menu and rest assured that anything
Small Town Treasure
under your pointer will make you a very happy eater.
Poppy’s
The super-tender ribs, smoked-just-right chicken and
Lepanto I stumbled upon this small-town treasure a couple
boneless pork and beef are incredibly delicious, even
of years ago, and I’ve been glad I did ever since.
special: a thin, Carolina-style, vinegar-mustard-and-brown-
Several times I’ve driven out of my way to get another
sugar concoction good enough to sop up with nothing
taste of their great home-style specialties, and I’ve
more than a few slices of white bread, which are handily
never left disappointed. The restaurant logo says it all:
provided on the side of many of the barbecue plates.
“Make your mouth happy! Eat at Poppy’s.”
There’s plenty more to like about Sims,’ too. Greens and
without sauce. But it’s the sauce that makes them really
What to order: Finding a good Cuban sandwich
cornbread count as one side. Beer comes in 12-, 22- and
in small-town Arkansas is about as likely as finding
40-ounce bottles. They have a killer smoked bologna
good fried catfish in New York City. When I first
sandwich, a great barbecue salad and darn-good burgers,
visited Poppy’s, however, that first caught my eye on
too. And the sweet
the menu above the counter. Ordering one was a good
potato pie is some of
decision. The usual Cuban bread was replaced with a
the best in the South.
fresh sandwich roll, but the toothsome sandwich was
If there’s better food
piled high with hot pork, melted cheese, pickles and
in Little Rock, I’ve
mustard — a winner on all counts.
missed out. Sims is
There are plenty of other delicious items on the
number one in my
menu, including top-notch burgers and scrumptious
book. (2415 Broadway,
appetizers like their fiery Cry Baby chicken wings.
7601 Geyer Springs,
What makes Poppy’s unique, though, is the amazing
1307 John Barrow Road,
variety of hot plate lunches served Sunday through
simsbarbeque-ar.com)
Friday, everything from chicken and dressing, pineapple grilled pork chops and stuffed peppers to cheesy enchiladas, steak kebabs and beef stroganoff.
Rib lovers’ delight An order of Sims’ tender, smoked-just-right pork ribs doused in the restaurant’s famous Carolina-style sauce.
Try to save room for their homemade desserts, too, including specialties like Hummingbird Cake, Triple Berry Pie and Butterfinger Cake. (301 Greenwood Ave., 870-475-3826)
18
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t a e r g More grub Some more of our favorites around the state: Babycake’s Bakery, Mountain Home: Cooked-when-you-order-them fried pies made with locally grown in-season fruit, plus cupcakes, cookies, éclairs, brownies and more. (facebook.com/ babycakesfriedpies) Fish Nest, Glenwood: The farm-raised fried catfish and fixin’s are outstanding, but it’s the hushpuppies we crave. Best on the planet. (hookedonfishnest.com) Gina’s Place, Jonesboro: Give us their “Garbage” — eggs, sausage, hash browns, cheese, onions, green pepper
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Taste Arkansas From farm to table Gregg Patterson
compiled by Stephanie Buckley
Six tips to a winning farmers market experience
I
It’s farmers market season with
many already open and more to soon as farmers’ fields are productive. I’ve grown food for Keith Sutton
farmers markets, run them and even served a few years on the Arkansas Farmers’ Market Board. So I‘ve gained a little wisdom (and a lot of farmer friends) and want to share
Fresh and fun A trip to the farmers market is fun and gives you the opportunity to eat the freshest, best-tasting foods.
six tips to enhance your farmers marketing experience.
something in particular, wake up
bring a cooler. The only thing worse
early. Drink your coffee on the way.
than passing up a dozen beautiful
1. Know your farmer. Know
your food. Spend a few minutes
eggs, because you’re not prepared, is 3. Go big: If it’s in season, buy
chatting at your local farmers market.
as much as you can. You’ll enjoy the
It takes tremendous dedication to
best flavors and best prices when you
both science and art (not to mention
buy a lot of whatever is at its harvest
dirty feet and nails) to turn out
peak. How to use it all up? Try new
beautiful produce on a small farm.
recipes with favorite vegetables or
And the time spent inquiring about
learn the lost art of preserving food.
the results of that dedication yields
to bring them home anyway and they ruin. And my favorite. 6. Volunteer at the market. Volunteering at the market not only gives you a better
4. Try something new each
understanding of the workings of a
enthusiasm. You get to look the
week. A benefit of farmer’s markets
farmers market and farm-to-market
farmer in the eye and ask anything
is the increased ability to stay within
relationships, you also enjoy an
about how the food was grown. That
your comfort zone if you so choose.
opportunity to spend time outside
doesn’t happen in a supermarket. Do
But if you’re lucky enough to visit
volunteering for a good cause. It
it! Ask away: about a food you don’t
a farmers market with a selection of
helps reduce the substantial workload
recognize, how to cook it and whether
unusual produce, try a new food each
faced by the market manager. A good
it’s coming in or out of season. Find
visit? At best, you’ll discover a new
market manager makes a market. Help
out what the farmer expects to bring
love. At worst, you’ll know better next
them do their job. They usually are
to market next week, so you can plan
time.
doing it for free. It helps make your
useful information and infectious
ahead.
local market stronger, and you might 5. BYOB – Bring your own
2. The early bird gets the
bag and maybe a cooler. That
earn some free fruit, vegetables or other goodies.
worm … and best tomatoes.
reusable canvas tote is good for the
The season’s first blueberries and
earth but also helps the farmers by not
finest tomatoes disappear the first
cutting into their profit margins. If
local farmers. Buy fresh, buy local and
hour the market is open. If you want
your market sells eggs, cheese or meat,
buy in season.
24
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25
Garden Home Design Me & my farm Garden-fresh fare year-round
Hortus Ltd.
by P. Allen Smith
O
Grow your own Growing a vegetable garden provides many benefits. One of my favorite things about
That’s good news enough to get
Summer Before you even harvest your
living on my farm is I can eat in
a garden of your own growing. That
season almost year-round. Not only
only leaves one question: what to
spring garden, you already need to
is the food good for me, I enjoy
grow each season? Luckily, there
be thinking about summer plantings
numerous other benefits by growing
are a variety of cool- and warm-
in order to eat in season year-round.
a garden.
season vegetables easy to grow and
The most popular of all growing
delicious tasting when harvested
seasons, summer promises the
harvesting vegetables offers more
at their peak. Here are a few of my
bounty of traditional garden delights
exercise than you might think.
favorites.
such as tomatoes, okra, corn,
For instance, planting and
Depending on the size and
requirements of your garden, you
could spend several hours per day
eggplant and squash. As a general
Spring
guideline, all of these will need
There are numerous cool-season
to be planted after the last frost.
tending it. The time outdoors is not
vegetables you can plant either while
Because there are numerous plants
only good for the physique; it can
there’s still frost on the ground or
that thrive during the summer, I
also help relieve stress. Studies show
as soon as spring arrives. Radishes,
recommend assessing your space,
planting and working in a garden
spinach, broccoli, turnips, carrots
your local growing conditions and
can improve one’s perspective and
and cabbage all can be planted
what you and your family enjoy
may even help to ward off dementia
before the last frost of the year.
eating. You can plan a garden
due to the planning and creativity
Other options, including beets,
from there. You can find growing
that come into play.
arugula, lettuce and onions, can go
tips at your local nursery, on seed
What’s more, you can enjoy
into the ground as soon as the soil is
packets and on websites, including
these benefits while saving money.
workable after the last frost. Be sure
PAllenSmith.com.
Fresh produce from your garden will
to check the seed packet or plant
lower what you spend at the grocery.
tag on transplants for exact planting
And there’s a sense of pride that
times. You’ll see these spring
comes from growing and providing
delicacies showing up in your garden
vegetables you planted in the
your food.
in time for an Easter Sunday feast.
spring can have a second growing
26
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Fall Many of the same cool-season
Whatever you bag the vegetables
can get a double dose of your
in, be sure to label with the name
favorites. Plants such as broccoli
and date. Again, I recommend
and rutabaga need to go in the
searching online or in one of your
ground 10-12 weeks before the
trusted garden or cooking resource
first frost. However, other fall
books for blanching times. For
vegetables, including cabbage,
vegetables such as squash and
cauliflower and mustard greens,
eggplant, go ahead and make it
only need to be planted six to
easy on yourself by chopping
eight weeks before the first frost.
them into thin slices, and then
Brussel sprouts are especially
freezing. They’ll be ready to use in
great for fall gardens, because
a casserole or to sauté when they
Hortus Ltd.
period in the fall — meaning you
they thrive in cooler weather and actually taste best when they are allowed to mature in it. You’ll want to set these out early,
Fresh blueberries are easy to freeze.
because they take about 90 days to mature.
thaw. Fresh herbs also can be frozen. When the herbs at my farm are at their peak, I like to pick them, chop the leaves and
vegetables during the cold winter
place 1 teaspoon into an ice tray
months when the ground is frozen.
compartment. I fill the tray with
what time of year, I recommend
With the proper preparation, you
water, and when the ice cubes are
planting a variety in your garden.
can freeze your spring, summer and
frozen, pop them out and put in a
Because different plants have
fall harvest to enjoy during this
freezer-safe plastic bag for storage.
different maturity periods, this
dormant period.
When needed, simply add the cubes
Speaking of maturity, no matter
provides a continuous food supply throughout the season. What about winter, you ask? I suggest eating your stockpiled
To freeze vegetables, you’ll want
to your soup or sauce recipe. Having
to blanch them and then place
these frozen vegetables and herbs
in freezer-safe bags. You also can
close at hand means enjoying the
use a vacuum sealer if you prefer.
flavors of your garden any time.
Put Arkansas food on your table Eating in season doesn’t mean personally
b
Summer bounty Local produce is easy to get at farmers markets.
growing everything in our gardens. It’s also a great opportunity to support local farmers. Arkansas Grown, a program run by the Arkansas Agriculture Department, brings food from the farmer to the market and to your table by connecting local producers with buyers. Because food tastes best when picked in season at its peak, and because buying locally means it takes less time for food to go from the garden to your table, it makes sense to support Arkansas farms. What’s more, it feels good to economy. Want to get involved? If you’re a farmer or own a restaurant or grocery store, register at www.ArkansasGrown.org or call (501) 683-4851.
Jane Colclasure
buy from our neighbors and support our local
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27
Land&People Scott County Farm Bureau
V People who care
Keith Sutton
by Gregg Patterson
Volatile spring weather is
common in Arkansas, and farmers and ranchers expect it. So it was in Scott County, last year, after heavy thunderstorms May 30
caused flash flooding that night and into the early morning of May
Good Samaritans Scott Co. Farm Bureau members (Front row l to r): Regina Oliver, Laurie Richardson, vice president Mike Richardson, Belinda Wright and Roger Thompson. (Back row): Linda Parish, Jack Parish, Todd Johnston, Dan Yandell, Buck Mathews, Mike Carson and president Dan Wright.
31 along the Fourche La Fave River
to one of the biggest and most
and its feeder creeks. The flooding
destructive tornadoes ever. Scott
killed five people, severely
County, Arkansas quickly faded
to Arkansas Farm Bureau President
damaged property and washed
from the American consciousness
Randy Veach and asked for the
away livestock on numerous
but not that of its county Farm
state board’s help. Ironically, at
farms in the county. The dead
Bureau board members.
the time, the state Farm Bureau
included county sheriff Cody
“We went and talked to the
by the flood in the county. Dan says he made a phone call
office was working on a letter
Carpenter and Arkansas Game &
folks to see what was needed.
encouraging its membership to
Fish Commission Wildlife Officer
The damage was incredible, and
help those affected by the tornado
Joel Campora, both swept away
there was a lot of livestock lost,
in Oklahoma.
while trying to rescue two women
too,” Wright said. In all, Wright
trapped in a house. The women
says 25 farmers were affected.
Welch, then executive vice
also died.
Unfortunately, it would later be
president of Farm Bureau, told
learned that only five qualified for
him “We’ve got people here in
federal disaster money.
Arkansas who need our help right
“We were all in shock,” said Scott County Farm Bureau President Dan Wright. In the
“It’s amazing how many people
President Veach says Ewell
now.” The two went to the state
morning light, Wright and
fall through the cracks when it
board with Scott County’s request
other Farm Bureau county board
comes to getting the help they
for help. That help came with
members moved about as best
need following a disaster,” Wright
a $5,000 donation and almost
they could assessing the damage.
said. He says the waters may have
$5,000 more raised at the Officers
Such a tragic story might
receded, and farmers and ranchers
& Leaders conference. In all, Dan
stay on the national news for at
did what was necessary to rebuild
says $16,351.25 was raised, the
least a couple of days as search
their livelihoods again, but those
final $1.25 from a local youngster
teams looked for those missing.
families were still hurting, many
who gave the last of his weekly
However, on the evening of May
having spent all they had just to
allowance “to help the farmers.”
31, a 2½-mile-wide tornado, later
hang on.
dubbed “The Monster Storm” by
Dan says the feedback from
“There were a lot of people
those helped by the fund has been
National Geographic magazine,
who didn’t qualify for disaster
touched down outside of
money but still needed help,”
Oklahoma City. The national news
Wright said. So Scott County Farm
Farm Bureau is obvious. “It doesn’t
media, and with it the nation’s
Bureau developed the Y-City Ag
take that many people to make a
attention, shifted west across the
Disaster Relief Fund to help needy
difference,” he said. “It just takes
Arkansas state line into Oklahoma
farm and ranch families affected
people who care.”
28
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heartfelt and thankful. For Dan Wright, the strength of
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29
DoItYourself
Gregg Patterson
Gregg Patterson
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One Convention Center Plaza Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71601 www.pinebluffcvb.org
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31
Health&Safety Tick-ing time bomb Bite victims suffer from strange meat allergy
I
by Keith Sutton It’s well-known ticks can transmit
illnesses. Among those are ehrlichiosis,
CDC
many serious and sometimes fatal tularemia, Rocky Mountain spotted Now, another horrible
consequence could possibly occur after a tick bite: a dangerous allergic reaction that appears after eating beef, pork, lamb, venison and other mammalian meats. The allergy, known as alpha-gal
for a sugar carbohydrate found in
Keith Sutton
fever and Lyme disease.
Nasty gal A bite from a Lone Star tick is believed to be the primary cause of the alpha-gal allergy, a mysterious illness that makes the sufferer allergic to red meat. Permethrin products are effective against ticks. Spray them on fabric, not skin, to kill ticks that touch treated clothing, tents, sleeping bags, etc.
the meat, is thought to be caused by an immune response to the bite of
a bit unusual to see adults develop a
Repellents containing DEET will
a Lone Star tick, a common species
food allergy.”
repel ticks several hours and are
in Arkansas. The first cases were
One victim of this illness, a
safe for use on skin and clothing
documented in 2009. Now, doctors
Stuttgart farmer who prefers to remain
if you follow label directions and
are seeing increasing numbers,
unnamed, told me at first, he and his
precautions. Permethrin products
especially in the southeastern U.S.
doctors were baffled by his allergy
such as Permanone and Duranon will
where Lone Star ticks are most
attacks, which often occurred in
kill ticks on contact for several days
common. Unfortunately, there are
midafternoon or late at night.
when used to treat clothing, shoes,
higher-than-expected rates of the
“The attacks took place hours
tents, sleeping bags and chairs, but these products never should be used ATTENTION:
allergy in some western and north-
after I ate red meat,” he said. “So
central parts of the country, too, a
they didn’t seem to be associated
FARMlabel BUREAU MEMB on the skin. Once again, follow
finding that suggests “other species
with food. I suffered for several years
directions.
of ticks or possibly human factors
before a doctor who had heard about
may play a role in allergic reactions to
this tick illness diagnosed me with
alpha-gal,” said Dr. Stanley Fineman,
alpha-gal. It’s almost ruined my life.
president of the American College of
Imagine if you could never again eat
Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
a hamburger or ham sandwich or a
Three to six hours after eating
venison steak. Any meat that comes
20-25% Actual Savi
Farm Bureau Membe When possible, walk in the center
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Inspect yourself and your children (888)4 for ticks after trips outdoors, even in www.clear
red meat, the alpha-gal sufferer
from some type of mammal is off
experiences symptoms such as
limits to me. I pretty much subsist on
Use a mirror to view all parts of your
asthma, sneezing, nausea, hives
chicken and fish.”
body and remove any tick you find.
and headaches. Due to the delayed
So far, there’s no treatment
your own yard. Check your pets, too.
Pay special attention to the armpits,
response, the symptoms may not
or cure for alpha-gal, other than
groin, waist, ears, belly button, backs
seem to be associated with diet.
avoiding all mammalian meats.
of knees and scalp.
“It’s very atypical as food allergies
How can you prevent tick bites?
Tick bites can be serious. Take
go,” Fineman said. “Most food
When outdoors, use a DEET or
precautions to avoid them before
allergies occur very quickly. It’s also
permethrin-based insect repellent.
every trip outdoors.
32
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33
IntheKitchen Mom’s magic
An updated version of a childhood favorite
M by Heather Disarro
My mom has always had
a knack for taking simple,
inexpensive ingredients and
creating recipes out of them that
Heather Disarro
made us feel like we were eating better than royalty. As in most things this magical trait went
unnoticed as I was growing up,
but as I raise my own children I can see it truly took something
more than pixie dust to feed us
The rice thing to do Leftover rice is the basis of this simple but hearty breakfast treat. 3. While the rice is cooking, whisk
so well.
I grew up in west Texas,
cotton fields surrounding our
little neighborhood and always a slight tinge of brown in the
wind. I was always aware of the way agriculture affected us even as the daughter of a college professor and a middle-school science teacher.
Honey Blueberry Pecan Rice Pudding
These days I look back at the first 23 years of my life and recall evenings filled with fried chicken, rice (in lieu of potatoes) and gravy, and some kind of greens. The following morning we would always have leftover rice in my mom’s version of breakfast rice pudding. It was pretty exciting to have a mom
• • • • •
rice mixture into the bowl with the egg and honey mixture,
⅔ cup long-grain white rice
stirring constantly, to temper
½ teaspoon salt
the egg mixture. You will want
2 whole eggs, at room
to make sure you are stirring
temperature
while pouring to keep from
½ cup honey
scrambling the eggs.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
5. Pour the tempered egg mixture
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
back into the pot with the
⅓ cup fresh blueberries
remaining rice and cook for
⅓ cup chopped toasted pecans
another 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes thick. 6. Remove from the heat and
Directions
stir in the vanilla, cinnamon,
1. In a heavy saucepan combine the milk, rice and salt
breakfast.
and bring to a boil over
abundance of rice (and
4. When the rice is cooked,
5 cups milk of choice
who would let us eat dessert for In celebration of the
until completely combined. carefully pour about ⅓ of the
Ingredients • • • •
together the honey and the eggs
blueberries and pecans. 7. Serve hot. Serves 4 to 6.
medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
Heather Disarro is a food-centric
2. Once the mixture is boiling,
lifestyle blogger who lives in central
rice pudding) we ate growing
reduce heat to medium-low
Arkansas with her family. Her blog
up, I wanted to take some of
and cook for 25 minutes,
is heathersdish.com where she
my favorite flavors and turn
stirring often to keep the rice
revels in the opportunity to bring
breakfast into something sort of
from sticking to the bottom of
the love of cooking to the world as a
magical – just like mom did.
the pan.
way to love others well.
subsequently the abundance of
34
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35
Wealth
Building
Financial spring cleaning A little financial tidying up saves you money
T by Allyson Hamlin
The golden days of attractively
high interest rates from the
1980s and early ‘90s for longterm savings products are a
thing of the past. Compared to today’s interest rates, it’s easy for Americans to feel like they can’t get ahead. Luckily, you can make the best of today’s rates. Whether you’re trying to build your nest egg, or you’re preparing to borrow
Create a CD ladder
in the future, these financial
a decision instantly and can pick
moves can help you reach that
up a Farm Bureau Bank loan
goal.
check from your local county
grow? CD laddering is a simple
Farm Bureau. So take advantage
technique that provides maximum
of vehicle refinancing and drive
returns paired with some liquidity.
down your interest rate now.
Farm Bureau Bank offers a wide
Refinance your vehicle loan Buying a car can be a frustrating experience, but sticking with a high interest rate is even more frustrating on
Want to make your money
range of terms to meet your specific
Invest in high-yield savings accounts When it comes to savings,
needs, and your funds are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. up to $250,000 per depositor. Work directly with a banker to help
your wallet. Sometimes we’re
money market accounts are a
you learn more, and start building
just excited about buying a new
great option to consider. Higher
your savings – risk free.
vehicle and forget to negotiate
interest rates paired with liquidity
the best deal. Or perhaps, it was a
equals access to your funds, while
financial spring cleaning tips and
first purchase, and you’re ready to
still earning a solid rate. If you’ve
get started on the right track now.
see if you qualify for a lower rate.
got a considerable balance you
Whether you’re shopping for a
don’t want to commit to a CD, a
vehicle purchase or reviewing
refinancing your vehicle loan can
money market account is a great
interest rates to stash your cash,
save you more than you think.
way to park your money, while
Farm Bureau Bank is a good choice.
Farm Bureau Bank offers a simple
still having some flexibility.
For more information on deposit
online refinancing application
Check out more features of the
accounts or all the financial
with flexible terms and special-
Farm Bureau Bank Money Market
products offered, please contact
member rates, making it easier to
Account and save more now.
your local Farm Bureau agent or
Whatever the reason,
save. In most cases, you’ll receive
36
So try these three simple
visit farmbureaubank.com today.
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Right there with you. Updated phone & tablet apps allow you to take our farm friendly resources practically anywhere.
z News
z Member Benefits
With access to farm and food news from around the world, being an informed Arkansas Farm Bureau member is easier than ever.
Handy access to ID numbers and everything else you need to take advantage of our ValuePlus savings.
NEW!
z Government z Weather
The latest developments on policy debates that affect our nation’s food security. Coming soon: A legislator and agency database with quick-contact functionality.
Location-specific weather reporting from Telvent DTN contains all the agro-meteorological metrics a farmer could need, plus five-day forecast and radar.
z Quotes Commodity futures and cash market prices updated every 10 minutes. Our unique interface allows you to customize which quotes you get.
NEW!
z Food Facts Accurate information about your food and the people who grow it. Get it on
Make your banking simpler. Farm Bureau Bank offers solutions to make money management easy, simple, and convenient. Have one less thing to worry about - make your banking simpler with: Internet Banking
FBBmobile App
Loan Payment Center
• Check balances and history • Transfer funds between internal and external accounts • Pay bills to anyone, anywhere • Set alerts
• Internet banking from your mobile device* • Deposit checks - snap, tap, and you’re done
• Make a payment with a credit card or account transfer • Schedule automated payments • View loan information such as interest rate, balance and more • Free up some money and Skip-A-Pay*
To learn more, contact your local Farm Bureau Agent or visit www.farmbureaubank.com *Available for iPhone and Android devices. Eligible Farm Bureau Bank deposit account and Internet Banking registration required. See Mobile Banking terms and conditions at farmbureaubank.com. Certain restrictions apply for Skip-A-Pay. Banking services provided by Farm Bureau Bank, FSB. Farm Bureau, FB, and the FB National Logo are registered service marks owned by, and used by Farm Bureau Bank FSB under license from, the American Farm Bureau Federation.