Front Porch - January/February 2013

FRONT PORCH Jan. - Feb. 2013

arfb.com

Our

photo contest winners

ARFB Legislative priorities

Mom’s seven habits to happiness

BECAUSE THANK YOU ISN’T THANKS ENOUGH. PRESENTING A PRIVATE OFFER FOR FARM BUREAU MEMBERS.

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Take up Ozark herbalism, culinary artistry, gardening, utilitarian and artistic handcrafts or mountain music in the beautiful, relaxed atmosphere of the Arkansas Ozarks. Join us for our spring Folk School, relax in comfort in one of the &DELQV DW 'U\ &UHHN, and enjoy the home-style fare at the 6NLOOHW 5HVWDXUDQW.

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PRE-SEASON EVENTS JANUARY 12: Cooking Class Comfort Food

FEBRUARY 9: Cooking Class Sweet Treats 14: Valentine’s Day Buffet at the Skillet Restaurant

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16: Hands-on Craft Classes 16: Valentine’s Dinner and Show 21-23: Quilter’s Retreat

MARCH 7-9: Spring Bluegrass Festival 18-22: Ozark Folk School

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FRONT PORCH

Farm Bureau

Matters

January - February 2013 C

O

V

E

R

by RANDY VEACH

President, Arkansas Farm Bureau

A

Arkansas Farm Bureau is committed

to supporting all segments of

strategic plan states, “We will recruit,

agriculture, from the largest family

involve and prepare farmers and

farms in our state to the smaller farms

ranchers to actively participate in all

that profitably target niche markets.

areas of Farm Bureau.” I think this

Recently, the Arkansas Farm Bureau

On the cover — Sheri Tunstill of Fayetteville took this honorable mention photo inside the historic schoolhouse at Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park for the 4th Annual Rural Reflections Photo Contest.

Send comments to: frontporch@arfb.com

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Legislative priorities Michelle Kitchens

12 Rural Reflections Photo Contest Winners 3 4

Farm Bureau Matters Randy Veach Food for Thought Ewell Welch

14 Taste Arkansas 18 22 24 26

Tara Johnson Land & People Ken Moore Building Wealth Allyson Hamlin In the Kitchen Tara Johnson Health & Safety Gregg Patterson

For address changes, contact:

Edition 84

well as our efforts to reach out to small,

refocus the efforts of our horticulture

non-traditional farmers.

commodity group, broadening its focus

Created by Publishing Concepts, Inc. For Advertising info contact David Brown • 1-800-561-4686 dbrown@pcipublishing.com

Even subtle change can be

on specialty crops and small farm

significant. As we talk about moving

efforts. This decision is more significant

Arkansas agriculture forward in a

than changing the name of the

united way, we must do everything in

Horticulture Division to the Specialty

our power to ensure all segments of

Crop Division. I believe it’s a testament

agriculture are represented, from the

to the willingness to refine the efforts of

rice farmer to the bee keeper, from the

our organization when needed.

cattle rancher to the catfish farmer,

One reason for changing the name

from the cotton fields to the piney

was simply to be more accurate and

woods, and everything in between.

consistent with definitions used by the

The diversity of our operations, in fact,

U.S. Department of Agriculture.

is the uniting strength of Arkansas

At our recent state convention in Hot Springs, the voting delegate body

agriculture.

I want to share some wisdom I heard

approved a policy recommendation that

from one of our bright young farmers

states, “We support attracting members

recently. Cassie Davis of Prairie Grove

involved in non-traditional agriculture,

is a hardworking dairy farmer, mother

including small farms producing for

and wife, and an unabashed advocate

local markets.” There is an immediate

for agriculture. When discussing the

opportunity for all of us to work

need for agricultural leaders, she

toward this end by seeking out these

said, “The voice of agriculture is a

producers and encouraging them to get

whisper without everyone standing up

involved in Farm Bureau and our policy

together.”

Can I get an “Amen”?

The organization’s strategic plan has

Those of us involved in agriculture

a couple of different statements that

are woven into the same cloth, and we

support this change. One states, “We

share so many of the same goals. It’s

will diversify and increase efforts that

when we cast aside our differences and

improve consumer support for farm and

work together for a common goal – in

ranch issues.” I believe enhancing our

this case for the betterment of all of

work with specialty crops producers and

Arkansas agriculture – that our state

using the opportunity to reach out to

stands tall.

farmers’ markets and those that produce pcipublishing.com

clearly supports making this change, as

Board of Directors approved a plan to

development process.

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.

Another statement from our

God bless you and your families.

for them will also lead to improved

God bless the farmers and ranchers.

consumer support for agriculture.

And God bless Arkansas Farm Bureau.

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Food for Thought

FRONT PORCH Arkansas Farm Bureau © 2013 Official membership publication of Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation.

Front Porch is mailed to more than 200,000 member-families.

by EWELL WELCH

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Included in membership dues.

ARKANSAS FARM BUREAU OFFICERS: President Randy Veach Manila Vice President Rich Hillman Carlisle Secretary/Treasurer Tom Jones Pottsville Executive Vice President Ewell Welch Little Rock DIRECTORS: Richard Armstrong, Ozark Troy Buck, Alpine Jon Carroll, Moro Joe Christian, Jonesboro Terry Dabbs, Stuttgart Mike Freeze, England Bruce Jackson, Lockesburg Johnny Loftin, El Dorado Gene Pharr, Lincoln Rusty Smith, Des Arc Allen Stewart, Mena Mike Sullivan, Burdette Leo Sutterfield, Mountain View

Executive Vice President, Arkansas Farm Bureau

W

EX OFFICIO Sherry Felts, Joiner Brent Lassiter, Newport Janice Marsh, McCrory Brian Walker, Horatio Executive Editor: Steve Eddington Editor: Gregg Patterson Contributing Editors: Ken Moore, Keith Sutton, Chris Wilson Research Assistant: Brenda Gregory

We experienced a turbulent year in

those on our website to help members,

will long be remembered for its devastating

and the general public, in understanding

impact to farmers and ranchers. It’s during

where the candidates stood on important

challenging circumstances, though, we often

issues;

see the best in our farmers and ranchers, and this year was no different.

It’s our objective to ensure we look into

the future, for the betterment of all Arkansas

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.

• Held two “How to Win an Election” seminars along with our partners at the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce; • Took 70 county leaders to Washington,

agriculture. To that end, our organization

D.C., as part of our County Presidents’

accomplished a number of noteworthy

Tour, plus took 13 from our Young

efforts in the past year, including: • All six members of the state’s

congressional delegation earned Friend

of Farm Bureau designation. We worked closely with our delegation, particularly

on issues such as international trade, the farm bill, biofuels and immigration; • All 76 county Farm Bureaus held both a policy development meeting and a county annual meeting;

Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) there, as well.

• Increased participation in YF&R activities by more than 50 percent; • Redesigned our exhibit at the Little Rock Zoo, creating signage that educates consumers about Arkansas agriculture; • Hosted a trade mission from a poultry company from Colombia; • Helped coordinate a House Ag Committee field hearing in Arkansas

• Worked vigorously in support of Issue #1, the highway bond initiative, which

• Co-sponsored the 2nd Annual Symposium on Food Animal Well-being, which attracted participants from 10 states;

passed 58-42 percent; • Initiated a President’s Leadership

• Continued the success of our MASH

Council, a group of 22 budding leaders,

camps, which included 409 students this

ages 25-45, and put them through

year;

an extensive leadership development ADVERTISING: Contact David Brown at Publishing Concepts, Inc. for advertising rates. dbrown@pcipublishing.com (501) 221-9986 Fax (501) 225-3735

congressional candidates and posted

Arkansas agriculture, with a drought year that

• Donated more than $11,000 through our county and state Women’s committees as

curriculum; • Distributed 15,000 copies of our Election Directory, providing contact information on candidates for local, county, state and

part of Food Check-out Day; • Reached more than 33,000 people with 550 programs on safety and other critical topics;

national offices; • Continued our growth in social media

• Our educational outreach (Mobile Ag

platforms, reaching out to those

Experience, combine simulator, mobile

unfamiliar with Farm Bureau and

cotton gin and rice mill, milk cow, etc.)

Publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

agriculture. Facebook followers grew by

went to 60 counties and 150 venues,

more than 150 percent in 2012 to more

reaching almost 200,000 people about

The Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising requests.

than 3,300; more than 100,000 viewed our videos on YouTube; arfb.com had 1.2 million page views and our TasteArkansas.

the Classroom resource materials and

com blog had more than 25,000 visitors;

donated 2,200 books as part of our Ag

• Conducted video interviews with 4

farming and ranching; • Finally, we distributed 53,000 Ag in

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Literacy Program.

Š 2012 United Soybean Board

Source: USB Market View Database FRONT PORCH

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LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES A look at Farm Bureau’s focus

Gregg Patterson

by Michelle Kitchens

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A

At Arkansas Farm Bureau almost

work. ARFB’s grassroots network must

exemptions for tomato twine and

everything relates to food. It’s what

actively lobby legislators if we hope

certain cotton binding. The proposed

many of our members do — grow the

to accomplish tax reductions in this

legislation will update the tax code

food — so a food analogy is appropriate.

session.

to match newer technologies. Several

Legislative sessions are like soup, changing the ingredients a little can

legislators have expressed interest in • Sales tax exemption on energy

passing the bill. This request is modest

really change the taste of the soup. The

for poultry and other animal

with a $600-800 million annual impact.

upcoming 89th General Assembly could

facilities.

And for drought-impacted cattle and

be a spicy soup.

In the November general election,

ARFB has worked for several sessions

cotton farmers, every little bit helps.

to achieve this goal. Energy costs

It’s far from a “done deal,” and farmers

voters added almost equal parts

continue to climb and, consequently, so

and ranchers must contact their

Republican and Democrats, then

does the farmer’s tax bill. A reduction

legislators and request they support this

ratcheted up the heat factor with some

or complete exemption will provide

legislation.

hot ingredients like the healthcare

some relief for farmers whose energy

insurance exchange, tax reform and

bills are in the tens of thousands.

prevent shopping leakage to

the proposed Medicaid expansion

This exemption will have the most

neighboring states. Many farmers now

and shortfall. Add voter ID, education

impact on poultry growers. According

cross state lines to purchase these items.

funding, school choice and ethics

to USDA reports, there are more than

Let’s keep our purchasing here instead

reform to bring it to a boil, and then let

6,000 poultry farms in Arkansas. Every

of buying in border states like Texas,

it all simmer for at least 60 days.

county in the state has a poultry farm.

Oklahoma, Missouri and Mississippi.

Arkansas Farm Bureau (ARFB) is

This exemption also will help

Poultry accounts for 47 percent of total

bringing its own additions to this

agricultrual receipts in the state, and

version of alphabet soup. The following

agriculture is Arkansas’ largest industry.

a sales tax exemption on parts

items are the legislative priorities of the

This exemption would put money in

and repairs if farm equipment is

ARFB membership.

the accounts of every poultry farmer

included.

and thus their rural communities. The

Taxes

• Support a coalition effort for

An exemption for manufacturing

estimate for an exemption on energy

replacement parts and repairs is being

would cut taxes by $6-7 million.

proposed by industry supporters.

Agriculture, like all businesses,

That savings, assuming a moderate

is constantly seeking competitive

multiplier, would mean a positive $20

agriculture. However, ARFB has

advantages by reducing costs. Creating

million economic impact. The first

approached supporters about the

tax treatments is one way to reduce

benefit of this tax cut will be felt in

inclusion of farm parts. If the proposal

costs. ARFB has positions on five

rural communities. This has the largest

expands to include agriculture,

different tax issues on the priority list

price tag of all of ARFB’s requests and

ARFB will join the effort to pass this

this year. The legislature will consider

will have to have all farmers actively

legislation.

many tax code bills during the session

involved to secure this exemption.

and weigh carefully each change on its merit. Several organizations and

• Oppose any reduction • Sales tax exemption for

legislators will be eyeing tax changes;

expendable materials used with

reductions in grocery tax, income

agricultural equipment.

tax, energy for manufacturing, capital

The present proposal doesn’t include

ARFB will seek a sales tax exemption

in agricultural sales tax exemptions.

This is a perennial item on the priority list because of its importance

gains and replacement parts are all

for “expendable materials.” This

to our membership. ARFB will work to

circulating. Achieving a tax cut in

includes hay wrap, twine and cotton

protect the current exemptions used by

this budget environment will be hard

bale wrap. Present law provides

farmers.

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Crime and Enforcement

Animal Health

• Support stiffer penalties and

• Support amending Arkansas’

changing the name to “Timber

expanded enforcement for

brucellosis law to create the

Fire Suppression Fee.”

transporting live feral hogs.

“Bovine Animal Health Program”

• Support increasing the timber tax by 5 cents per acre and

ARFB’s support of expanding tax

Hogs. Many Arkansans love them on the

and set a maximum fee of $2 per

exemptions should illustrate better

gridiron but hate them in the pasture and

than anything, our position on taxes.

crops. These pests are a scourge to farmers

Arkansas is one of the last states

However, the organization has a

and wildlife. Research shows their spread

maintaining a brucellosis program. The

long history of supporting the state’s

across the state can be directly attributed to

state has been free of the disease for 15

collection and even increase of necessary

human transportation. It’s presently illegal to

years, and cattlemen want to adjust and

revenues. The per-acre timber tax is

transport and release feral hogs in Arkansas.

use the per-head fee to address other cattle

presently 15 cents and is paid only on

We are seeking the possible increase of

health issues. The fee, paid at the market

timber acreage. This tax supports wildfire

penalties for transport and release and the

by cattle owners, would be converted from

protection by the Arkansas Forestry

expansion of enforcement authority to stem

brucellosis-only to allow more flexibility

Commission protecting homes and

the growing wild hog population.

to address other health issues, such as trichomoniasis or animal identification.

timber investments statewide.

An increase to 20 cents per acre will generate about $1 million but could save Arkansans tens of millions in

head.

• Support additional restrictions on sale of non-ferrous metals.

Despite changes to the law addressing

• Support additional funding for the Arkansas Veterinary Student Tuition Assistance Program.

losses from one dangerous wildfire. One

the sale of copper and scrap metals, thieves

need only think about the drought and

continue to boldly steal these items. ARFB

fires of last summer to see the value

recently adopted policy supporting a

the last session to provide additional

in fire suppression. Our membership

permitting process that would prohibit

financial assistance for Arkansas students

has discussed the issue thoroughly and

dealers from purchasing items until sellers

attending Mississippi State University’s

believes the service is valuable and the

submit the proper paperwork. The permits

School of Veterinarian Medicine. Students

increase is needed. We will work with the

would be issued by the local police. As long

would be required to establish a practice

state agency and timber industry. Both

as prices for non-ferrous metals remain high,

that includes the treatment of large animals

support an increase to achieve this goal.

theft will continue. But changes to the law

in Arkansas. This is a great opportunity to

will make it easier for police to catch and

invest in Arkansas youth and agriculture’s

prosecute offenders.

future and rural economic development. A

Keith Sutton

Ken Moore photos

Water needs Plans for updating the state water plan are underway. Farm Bureau believes agriculture’s use of water needs to be the second-highest priority for water use in the state, behind only that of human consumption.

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ARFB helped create this program during

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relatively small financial investment puts more large-animal vets to work ensuring the health of livestock. It also brings a graduatelevel taxpayer back to Arkansas to begin a career in animal medicine.

Fire protection Farm Bureau will work in this legislative session to help secure an additional five-cent-per-acre fee for forested lands to improve fire protection. If successful, it will help save millions of dollars in forest-firerelated losses.

Water • Support a statutory priority for agricultural water use, second only to human consumption.

As most active Farm Bureau members know, Arkansas is in the beginning stages of adapting the State Water Plan. The plan is the governing guidance for the state’s water use. ARFB feels strongly that agriculture should have high priority in water usage, second only to human consumption.

ARFB would like to see this basic principle confirmed in law. Water is critical to food production and food production to human survival. Arkansas is a water-rich state, and agriculture is ready to do its part to preserve the quality and quantity of it for our citizens.

Call for Nominees

The Arkansas State Board of Nursing…Celebrating a Century of Nursing Leadership, is the theme of the 9th Annual Compassionate Nurse and Nurse Educator of the Year awards, Saturday, June 8th. It’s held in the beautiful Wildwood Park for the Arts in West Little Rock.

We’re searching Arkansas to find the one nurse we can say is the most outstanding in our state. Do you know a nurse that you feel is the most compassionate, caring and empathetic caregiver? A nurse who has given comfort or care to you, a family member or friend? We are asking you to send us their name, where they work, phone number and a short message expressing why you think they are the most deserving nurse in Arkansas.

For the second year we are also honoring the outstanding nurse educator of the year. If you are a student and you have an educator that has been a driving force in development and support of your nursing career , send in your nominee’s name, place of work and a short story of why they should receive the award. Be sure you include your contact information for us to get back in touch with you.

Nominate a candidate from your school or facility today.

Send or email your nomination to: NURSING COMPASSION P.O. Box 17427, Little Rock, Arkansas 72222 sramsel@pcipublishing.com

Suzanne Ramsel at 501-221-9986 or 800-561-4686 ext. 101

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2012 Nursing Compassion Award Winner, Sherri Guinn, RN 2012 Outstanding Educator Award Winner, Betty Diehl, MSN,RN

State

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Any insurance company can offer “discounts”. But with us, you talk with your local agent face to face.

That way, you know you’re getting the premium discounts you qualify for, from day one. And you know we’ll check for more discounts every six months.

That’s why our customers stay happy. And we think you will, too. Call today.

Real service. Real people.

ARAUPR41596

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*Not all discounts are subject to semi-annual automatic review. *Discounts may vary, and do not apply to life insurance products.

Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. of Arkansas, Inc. Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Co. Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Co., Jackson, MS

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Gregg Patterson

More service.

Same auto discounts.

Is there a doctor in the barn?

There’s an acute need for largeanimal veterinarians to care for farm stock. Arkansas doesn’t have a university school of veterinary medicine (though there is a vet tech school at ASUBeebe). Students here wanting to attend vet school face financial difficulties, as well as limited openings to attend an out-ofstate vet school. This session, Farm Bureau will continue its work with the legislature to help offset those costs. A cooperative agreement with Mississippi State University helps a limited number of qualifying Arkansas students attend vet school there.

In return, graduating students agree to return to Arkansas and work here, including with large farm animals.

University of Arkansas, Division of Agriculture • Support funding for the

As always ARFB will work on many

After the election, the Senate and House

issues beyond the priority list, working to

both changed their leaders-elect. No one

support legislation that agrees with our

knows exactly what recipe is brewing at the

University of Arkansas, Division of

policy and opposing legislation that is

Capitol.

Agriculture.

damaging to agriculture or rural Arkansas.

Another constant on the ARFB priority

Arkansas is entering a new era in

It will definitely have some exotic ingredients in addition to the base. Arkansas

list, we are dedicated in our commitment to

political history. Republicans hold the

could be in for a treat with a delicate balance

see the Division of Agriculture adequately

majority in both chambers but Democrats

of flavors but whatever the result, expect the

funded. Its mission to education and

still control several committees and can

preparation and presentation to have a little

provide services in every Arkansas county is

block the Revenue Stabilization Act.

more spice.

unmatched.

Commodity Promotion and Research Programs • Support current structure of

FOUNDATION PROBLEMS? Call us Today for a FREE Estimate RESIDENTIAL + COMMERCIAL

commodity checkoff programs.

Arkansas has checkoff and promotion programs for six different farm products: catfish, rice, soybeans, beef, wheat and corn & grain sorghum. Structures for these programs are slightly different and established in Arkansas law. Each program was initiated by farmers, is funded at least in part by assessments paid by farmers, is governed by a representative group that includes farmers and is used to promote goods and perform research. ARFB is a longtime supporter of the programs. Our farmer members believe the present structure of each program is working well and shouldn’t be changed.

Piers to Stable Clay

Term Limits • Cooperate with other interested groups to amend the present law to lengthen the terms legislators can serve.

Only two other states have term limits as restrictive as ours, and the Capitol has become a revolving door for legislators.

Governing the state is a complicated business, and legislators need time to be effective, to learn the law and, yes, gain

Slab Repair • • • • •

term limits but a more reasonable length of service. Extending the length of term limits is what is best for Arkansas.

Pier & Beam

DuraSteel Piers Pilings Mud Pumping Raising & Leveling Brick Repairs

• • • • •

Sills Replaced Joist Replaced Rotten Floors Replaced Raising & Leveling Termite Damage Repair

Home Services Inc. Locally Owned and Operated

power to make good laws. ARFB and our partners aren’t proposing an elimination of

Pressed Pilings to Refusal

Call 870-798-3807 • Toll-Free 1-877-256-7900 HOME SERVICES, INC. SAVES YOU MONEY!

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RuralReflections Contest winners take great photos depicting rural life.

Shelby Atkinson, 17, of Magnolia is the High School division winner and Grand Prize winner of Front Porch magazine’s 4th Annual Rural Reflections Photo Contest. Her photo of a calf nursing at sunset was shot in the pasture on her family’s farm.

Honorable Mention: High school student Blake Eiermann of Blevins captured these two beautiful roosters by an old hay rake on his grandpa’s farm.

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Honorable Mention: Bernard Skoch of Elkins took this photo and says: “After a hard round of mutton bustin’ Noah Presnell, 4, and Tyler Presnell, 7, watch other events at the rodeo, clutching their hard-won trophies.”

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Honorable Mention: Tracy Boyd took this photo of her dog Jasper as “he was running through the clover watching the bees at work.�

Honorable Mention: High school student Kamron Forga of Mt. Ida composed this black & white still life of an old water pump by a pond.

Honorable Mention: Kaelyn Lay of Prim named this photo Lil Cowboys. It features her nephews, A.J., 2; Andrew, 6; and twins Adam and Aaron, 4.

Vickie Watts of Harrison is the Adult division winner of our photo contest. She captured this beautiful fall scene of a maple tree and a rainbow after a storm. She says the rainbow disappeared moments after taking the picture.

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13

Taste Arkansas From farm to table compiled by Tara Johnson

T Family owned The overwhelming majority (97 percent) of farms in Arkansas are family owned.

Arkansas agriculture Agriculture is the lifeblood of Arkansas

there are only 1.7 acres of agricultural

communities. It’s our responsibility to

land per person. The growing population

support our farmers.”

and its largest industry. Arkansas has

requires farmers to improve efficiency to

more than 49,000 farms that annually add

meet the growing need for food. Better

of agricultural communications and

about $16 billion to the state’s economy.

land management, improved technology

leadership at the University of Arkansas

Yet, concern about how our food is grown

and sophisticated equipment are just a

and mother of two, said: “It is critical

or raised seems to be in the media almost

few examples of the advances that have

for parents to learn about agriculture,

daily. It can be hard to understand farm

increased efficiency. Necessity forces

so they can help their children make

life if you haven’t lived it, and it isn’t

agriculture to constantly evolve.

educated decisions. With fewer families

always easy to explain the process of

I’ve asked a several people involved

Casandra Cox, an instructor

having direct connections to agriculture,

food production. It’s important to first

in Arkansas agriculture on various levels

it is important for parents to

understand something about where food

about the one thing they would like

make agriculture a priority in raising well-

comes from and a little about those who

everyone to know about agriculture. The

rounded children.

grow or raise it.

answers may surprise you.

Families own and operate more than

When I asked Jim Carroll, a farmer in

“Parents spend a lot of time and money making sure their children have

97 percent of those farms. Often, farming

Monroe County, he said: “I want them

the resources needed to do well in school,

is portrayed as “industrial” or “corporate,”

to know that most farmers are energetic

engage in extracurricular activities, learn

like it’s some faceless assembly line

and educated. If they weren’t enthusiastic

about languages and culture,” Cox said.

process. That’s simply not the case. Yes,

about what they are doing, they wouldn’t

“All of this we do to ensure the brightest

there are large food companies, but those

be doing it.”

future for our children, and agriculture is

companies don’t own the overwhelming

Jason Brown, a public relations

an essential component of their daily

percentage of farms. Rural families own

specialist who works with the Arkansas

lives. If we are going to live it, we should

those farms.

Soybean Board, said: “Arkansas farming

learn about it.”

The average U.S. farmer already feeds

is a family business that supports

The role agriculture plays in our society

more than 150 people. Fifty years ago,

Arkansas families. The farmers in

is incredibly important. This year, don’t

it was approximately 43 people. Today,

Arkansas’ 75 counties bring an incredible

forget about the farmer. Visit arfb.com to

with about 7 billion people in the world,

economic impact to each of our

learn more about Arkansas agriculture.

14

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Healthy swaps Every January, there’s a mad dash

Drink sparkling water instead of

hunger pangs. A lot of snack bars, even the

diet soda. The taste of sparkling water is

ones with whole grains, are full of saturated

to the health food section. It seems like

definitely an acquired one. Some flavors

fat. Avoid them and snack on a banana

everyone has a New Year’s resolution to

are better than others. For example, the

with a teaspoon of peanut butter instead or

eat healthier. With all the misleading

lime flavor tastes like lemon-lime soda but

apple slices dipped in peanut butter.

information out there, navigating the

without the sweetness. If you like water

path to healthy eating can be confusing

with lemon, you will like the lemon flavor.

balsamic vinaigrette instead of ranch

and overwhelming. There are a few simple

You may initially miss soda’s sweetness, but

dressing. Pick fruit over candy. Drink water

swaps that can help you make the change.

after a few tries, you’ll be hooked on the

instead of soda and many others. You don’t

healthier sparkling water.

have to completely change everything you

Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil. Olive oil is a great source of

Use hummus as a sandwich

monounsaturated fatty acid and amino

topping or dip. Hummus is underrated.

acids. In fact, olive oil is also a good

It’s rich with protein, comes in a variety

It’s easy to make simple swaps. Order

eat, just swap to healthier options for a manageable way to overhaul your diet.

source of vitamin E and contains vitamins

of flavors and is perfect for dipping with

Tara Johnson is a contributor to Arkansas

A and K, iron, calcium, magnesium and

vegetables and whole-grain crackers. Dip

Farm Bureau’s Taste Arkansas blog. For recipes,

potassium

your favorite raw vegetable in spinach-

videos and farmer profiles visit tastearkansas.

Cook with Greek-style yogurt

flavored hummus from the refrigerator

com today.

instead of sour cream. One cup of

section at the grocery store for a filling,

full-fat Greek yogurt has 300 calories and

healthy snack.

no cholesterol, while one cup of full-fat

Swap potato chips for popcorn.

sour cream has 445 calories and 120 mg of

Popcorn is a whole-grain snack packed

cholesterol. Another added bonus to Greek

with fiber. It will satisfy your craving for a

yogurt is that it contains probiotics to

salty crunch without the empty fat calories.

support digestion. Plain Greek yogurt has

Eat whole fruit instead of snack

a taste similar to sour cream. Use the two

bars. Fruit is a filling, natural snack

interchangeably.

alternative that can satiate afternoon

1. Turn bread upside down and cut from the soft side.

2. Freeze grapes to chill white wine without watering it down.

3. Lay a wooden spoon over a pot of boiling water. It will keep the water from boiling over.

4. Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a hint of garlic. For stronger flavor, add garlic at the end of the recipe.

5. To warm biscuits, pancakes or muffins that have been refrigerated, place them in a microwave with a cup of water.

Healthy oil Olive oil is a healthier subsitute for vegetable oil.

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15

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17

Land&People DeSalvos named Arkansas Farm Family of the Year Fifth-generation farm family from Conway County earns 2012 honor

by Ken Moore

T

The DeSalvo family of Center Ridge

is the 2012 Arkansas Farm Family of the Year. Tony DeSalvo, along with his son Phillip and daughter-in-law Beth, own Big D Ranch, a 1,300-acre cattle and hay operation. Phillip and Beth have two children, 8-year-old Benjamin and 6-yearKeith Sutton

old Isabella.

Big D Ranch consists of a 350-head

commercial cow-calf operation, 150-head of registered Ultrablack cattle, which includes 30-40 registered bulls. The DeSalvos are believed to have the largest herd of registered Ultrablack cattle in Arkansas. Additionally, they grow some

Back in black The DeSalvo family of Center Ridge is the 2012 Arkansas Farm Family of the Year. (Left to right) Isabella, Tony, Benjamin, Beth and Phillip DeSalvo check on some of their Ultrablack cattle. Their Big D Ranch has been in operation since the late 1800s.

900 acres of wheat, sorghum, sudan silage and Bermuda hay.

efficient family farming operations that

A winner will be named from among 10

exist in Arkansas,” said Andy Guffey,

southeastern state winners in October in

settled near Center Ridge Conway Co.

coordinator of the Arkansas Farm Family

Moultrie, Ga.

in the late 1800s, and since 2003, Tony

of the Year program. “They are diligent

and Phillip have worked diligently to

protectors of the natural resources used in

Year program is the longest-running farm

ensure the commercial and seed-stock

growing their forage and pastures and are

family recognition program of its type in

cattle operations run efficiently. Phillip is

a prime model of a hardworking, multi-

the United States,” said Arkansas Farm

proud to work the same land his ancestors

generation farm family.”

Bureau President Randy Veach, a cotton

The first generation of DeSalvos

established more than 100 years ago.

Phillip is a member of the Conway

“The Arkansas Farm Family of the

farmer from Manila. “We congratulate

He is raising Ben and Isabella to share

County and Arkansas Cattlemen’s

each of the county and district winners

his passion for ranching, and they are

associations and the National Cattlemen’s

for this well-deserved recognition.”

learning to work on the farm.

Beef Association. Beth is a substitute

Phillip works directly with a beef

The Farm Family of the Year program,

teacher and volunteer at Nemo Vista

now in its 67th year, begins with selection

nutrition specialist and Land O’Lakes

Elementary School, where Tony drove

of the top farm family in each county.

Purina Mills Feed Co. to ensure his cattle’s

a school bus for 13 years. The family

Then, eight district Farm Families of the

nutritional needs are met. Artificial

also serves in numerous capacities at St.

Year are selected. The process concludes

insemination and careful genetic selection

Joseph Catholic Church.

with the selection of the state Farm Family

among the bulls are reasons for the success of their operation.

“The DeSalvos are another great example of the many successful and

18

As Arkansas’ Farm Family of the

of the Year. The competition is judged on

Year, the DeSalvos will compete in

production, efficiency and management

the 2013 Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo

of farm operations, family life and rural/

Southeastern Farmer of the Year program.

community leadership and values.

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Share Your Thoughts t www.facebook.com/ArkansasFarmBureau t www.youtube.com/arkansasfarmbureau t twitter.com/ARFB t www.arfb.cPN Oow â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Share Thisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; FOBCMFE

19

DoItYourself

Arkansas Farm and Ranch Families Provideâ&#x20AC;Ś

by Gregg Patterson

24% of Arkan nsas Jobs

T JOBS

Protecting the En nvironment

ENVIRONMENT

75% of Wildliffe Habitat

Meet Lacy Glover Former Miss Arkansas and Spokesperson for the Arkansas Foundation for Agriculture

FOOD

Arkansas Safe, affordaable fo ood

Foundation for Agriculture www.growingarkansas.org

20

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Life is priceless.

Insuring it should be affordable.

There’s no limit to what you would do for your children. But there is a limit to your budget. We know how to help you with both. Call now for a Get Real Review from your local Farm Bureau Insurance Agent.

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21

Building

Wealth

Secure peace of mind Financial resolutions to make 2013 a success

Plan for peace Financial peace of mind comes from purposeful planning. The New Year is a great opportunity to make sure you’re on the right path.

by Allyson Hamlin

T

The New Year is here, and it

comes with the prospect of making New Year’s resolutions we finally hope to keep this year. These resolutions usually revolve around

done so in the last 12 months. Use

local Farm Bureau agent to schedule a

health and finances. Here are five

the report to help identify where you

review.

ideas for financial resolutions that

need to start to lowering debt.

will lead to peace of mind in 2013.

5. Get on track for retirement.

3. See where you can cut

If your employer offers a retirement

1. Set goals. If you don’t set a

back. When you know where your

plan with a match, try to contribute

goal, it’s impossible to reach it. After

money is going, try to think of ways

at least enough to get that full match,

all, it’s hard to know how to get

to reduce expenses by spending less

so you don’t leave any “free” money

where you want to be if you have

than you earn each month. Then,

on the table. You can get additional

no idea where that is. Take a break

no matter how small the amount

tax benefits by contributing more to

from this holiday season, and ask

you can save is, start saving for your

your employer’s plan, a traditional

yourself what steps you need to take

goals. Ask yourself if there are ways of

IRA and/or a Roth IRA. Don’t forget

to achieve those goals and what they

doing the same thing while spending

you’ll be able to contribute more to

would cost you. Most importantly,

less money. Can you bring lunch

your 401(k) next year and you have

write it down to hold yourself

to work instead of eating out every

until April 15 to contribute to IRAs

accountable and make them more

day? Putting that extra money aside

for 2012.

likely to actually happen.

will help when unexpected expenses occur.

Making 2013 a success requires

2. Check your credit and payoff debt. If you’re like most people,

22

you to start planning now. Set your 4. Make sure you have the

goals immediately, and plan your year

you’ve probably been using your

right amount of insurance. You

to become debt free and establish

credit cards all over the place for the

want to have enough insurance to

some savings all at the same time.

last several weeks, so keep an eye

cover necessities and enough life

If you’re interested in opening an

on your credit card statements for

insurance to provide for anyone

IRA or money market account, visit

any purchases you didn’t make. You

dependent on your income. This

farmbureaubank.com, or visit with

also can take it a step further and

is also a good time to examine

your local Farm Bureau county office.

check your credit report for free at

your health, property and casualty

Here’s wishing you all a prosperous

annualcreditreport.com if you haven’t

insurance coverage. Contact your

New Year!

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Ask your equipment dealer for AgDirect financing. ®

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An equipment financing program offered by Farm Credit Services of Western Arkansas and other participating Farm Credit System associations, AgDirect is only available through your ag equipment dealer. When you’re in the market to buy, lease or refinance equipment, ask for AgDirect financing. Learn more by calling 888-525-9805 or visiting agdirect.com. )\` SLHZL VY YLMPUHUJL

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23

InTheKitchen A universal favorite Chicken & dumplings is a soul satisfying elixir

by Tara Johnson

M My mom and dad make the best

chicken and dumplings. When I was young, a steamy pot of chicken and

dumplings could always make a bitter winter day better. I often find myself

making a big pot of my old favorite on

particularly stressful days. The moist, yet fluffy dumplings, creamy broth, tender

chicken and veggies never fail to lift my spirits and warm my soul.

I’ve simplified my parents’ recipe

and can whip up a big pot of chicken

and dumplings in close to 30 minutes.

The dumplings are my favorite part, and because you boil them in the soup itself,

it gives the broth a punch of creaminess.

This will easily become one of your go-to comfort food recipes.

Chicken and dumplings is cold-weather comfort food.

IIngredients di t •

24

Directions

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, chopped in

In a large stockpot over medium heat, add onions, olive

bite-size pieces

oil and garlic. Cook until onions just start to turn translucent,

•

1 medium onion, chopped

stirring occasionally. Add chicken and cook for 10 minutes or

•

2 tablespoons olive oil

until the chicken is almost done. It will be white. Add chicken

•

2 teaspoons minced garlic

stock, salt, pepper, savory mix, peas and carrots. Bring to a boil

•

48 ounces low sodium chicken stock

over medium-high heat. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

•

1 (12 ounce) bag frozen peas

In the meantime, combine Bisquick, milk, oregano and parsley.

•

1 (12-ounce) bag frozen carrots

The dough should be moist. Drop dumpling dough by the

•

1 teaspoon savory seasoning mix

heaping spoonful into boiling soup. Cover and simmer over

•

2 teaspoons kosher salt

medium heat for another 5 to 10 minutes or until dumplings are

•

1 teaspoon pepper

no longer doughy and have fluffy centers. The outside will look

•

2 cups Bisquick

moist. Serve immediately.

•

2/3 cup milk

•

1 teaspoon oregano

Tara Johnson is a contributor to Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Taste

•

1 teaspoon parsley

Arkansas blog. For more recipes visit tastearkansas.com.

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25

Health&Safety Don’t worry. Be happy Mom wasn’t too far off on what it takes to be happy in life

by Gregg Patterson

walk to “get the

happiness just doesn’t happen of its own

blood circulating.”

accord. Research in the field of “positive

Medical research

psychology” indicates that you build a

of the physical and

foundation for happiness through deliberate

mental benefits of

action. Mom used to say something similar.

regular exercise is

“You make your own luck by working hard

indisputable.

George Patterson

L

Like most things worthwhile in life,

Mother knows best Barbara Patterson, aka “Mom,” always believed attaining happiness in life requires purposeful action on your part.

and making smart, informed decisions.”

1. Know thyself. A huge part of

4. Get a good night’s sleep. This one is a no-brainer. Again,

jokester. His jokes were always clean

personal happiness is being involved

the medical research is indisputable.

but horribly corny. Grandpa Wilcox’s

in things that energize you and

A good night’s sleep cures a lot of ills.

cornball classics brought the greatest

give you a feeling of significance.

Turn off all electronic devices (yes,

joy to the joke teller because of the

Psychologists will tell you that

the TV, too!) at least an hour before

reaction they’d elicit from the receiver.

knowing your personality type

turning out the light. Mom grew

We’d groan initially when first told

is an important step to learning

up in Philadelphia, so often quoted

the joke but couldn’t wait to tell it

how you think and react to things.

that famous patriot, statesman,

ourselves. Mom’s favorite was: “What’s

Mom simply said, “Don’t try to be

philosopher and inventor, Benjamin

a small joke?” Answer: “A mini

somebody you’re not. Be yourself.”

Franklin. “Early to bed, early to rise,

ha-ha.” It’s bad corny, but admit it.

keeps a man healthy, wealthy and

You know you’re going to repeat it to

wise.”

someone.

2. Be thankful. Feeling a little down in the dumps? Psychologists often will recommend sitting down and making

5. Volunteer in your community.

a list of the things you’re thankful

You know you’ve experienced it.

moderation.” This simple yet universal

for. A handwritten list once a week, a

When we help others, it puts a smile

three-word truth is the statement

thankful prayer at bedtime: these are

on our face and makes us feel well.

of all statements that I’ll remember

things that can help lift your spirits.

There are so many in need. And you

my mother by more than any other.

Mom would say, “Quit complaining,

have so many talents that are needed,

Experience in the opposite direction

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26

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SAVE When You Grow A Zoysia Lawn From Plugs!

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To ensure best results, we ship you living sheets of genuine Watering is rarely, We ship at the best Amazoy™ Zoysia Grass, harvested direct from our farms. Plugs are if ever, needed – not cut all the way through. Before planting, simply finish the planting time for you! separation by cutting 1"-sq. Plugs with shears or knife. Then follow even in summer! the included easy instructions to plant Plugs into small plug holes about a foot apart. Our guarantee and planting method are your assurance of lawn success backed by more than 5 decades of specialized lawn experience.

Meyer Zoysia Grass was perfected by the U.S. Gov’t, released in cooperation with the U.S. Golf Association as a superior grass.

©2013 Zoysia Farm Nurseries, 3617 Old Taneytown Rd, Taneytown, MD 21787

✂

Our Customers Love Their Zoysia Lawns!

One of our typical customers, Mrs. M.R. Mitter of PA, wrote how “I’ve never watered it, only when I put the Plugs in… Last summer we had it mowed 2 times... When everybody’s lawns here are brown from drought, ours just stays as green as ever!”

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Quantity

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+ FREE Plugs

__

150

Your PRICE

+ Shipping

$ 14.95

$ 5.00

YOU SAVE

__

+FREE

Planting Tool

__

Write price of order here

$

Free

Md. residents add 6% tax

$

Shipping

$

$ 45.60

$ 7.00

$27.20

Step-on Plugger

750

+ 150

$74.50

$10.00 FREE

$45.20

Step-on Plugger

1100

+ 400

$99.10

$15.00 FREE

$100.40

Free Amazoy Power Auger

1500

+ 900

$147.50

$25.00 FREE

$171.70

Free Amazoy Power Auger AND Step-on Plugger

500

+ 100

Free

ENCLOSED TOTAL Name Address City Zip

Dept. 5003

Payment method (check one) ❑ Check ❑ MO ❑ MasterCard ❑ Visa Exp. Date

$

Card #

❑ Extra Step-on Plugger $8.95 + $3 Shipping ❑ Extra Amazoy Power AugerTM for 3/8” Drill $24.95 +$5 Shipping Amazoy is the trademark registered U.S. Patent Office for our Meyer Zoysia grass.

Mail to: ZOYSIA FARM NURSERIES 3617 Old Taneytown Road, Taneytown, MD 21787

State Phone

We ship all orders the same day plugs are packed at earliest correct planting time in your area.

Order Now! www.ZoysiaFarms.com/mag

Not shipped outside the USA or into WA or OR

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