Cultivate July 2011

Cultivate april 2011 july 2011

Virginia Farm Bureau

| food • home • life

‘Unprecedented demand’ for local and Virginia-grown foods

SaveOurFood.org

Contents

Cultivate Volume 4, Number 3 July 2011 Cultivate (USPS 025051) (ISSN 1946-8121) is published four times a year, February, April, July, November/December (combined issue). It is published by Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, 12580 West Creek Parkway, Richmond, VA 23238. Periodicals postage rate is paid in Richmond, VA. The annual subscription rate is $1.42 (included in membership dues).

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

Telephone 804-290-1000, fax 804-290-1096.

E-mail address is Cultivate@vafb.com.

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

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

Member: Virginia Press Association

Departments

Features 7 ‘Unprecedented demand’ for local and Virginia-grown foods Regional partnerships could make it easier to get locally grown foods into Virginia schools and other markets.

15 Extension services sought even in state’s most urban county More than 35,000 Fairfax County citizens and businesses are receiving assistance from Virginia Cooperative Extension. Farm Bureau has been working to keep Extension sufficiently funded and viable.

26 Fresh summer tomatoes—for dessert?

If you get excited about fried green tomatoes, wait’ll you try chef John Maxwell’s recipe for Green Tomato Cake.

On the Cover

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Experts say demand continues to grow in Virginia for locally grown fruits, vegetables and other foods.

A study on how better to meet that demand is under way.

5 Your Membership Advantage

EDITORIAL TEAM

Greg Hicks Vice President, Communications Pam Wiley Managing Editor Kathy Dixon Sr. Staff Writer/Photographer

22 In the Garden

Sara K. Owens Staff Writer/Photographer

24 Good for You!

Bill Altice Graphic Designer

26 Taste of Virginia

Cathy Vanderhoff Advertising

Maria La Lima Graphic Designer

28 Diggin’ It! 30 Member Marketplace

VISIT US ONLINE

VaFarmBureau.org SaveOurFood.org

Publication schedule Associate members will receive their next issue of Cultivate in November. The magazine is published quarterly.

z ^ Friend and follow Farm Bureau and Save Our Food While you’re seeking out fresh, locally grown foods this summer, don’t forget to join Virginia Farm Bureau’s social media network.

You can find Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, Save Our Food and Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. tweeting on Twitter, posting on Facebook, making connections on LinkedIn and posting videos on YouTube and VaFarmBureau.org.

To find out more, visit: VaFarmBureau.org, SaveOurFood.org and FarmBureauAdvantage.com.

Connections newsletter emailed to members If you haven’t signed up to receive Connections, Virginia Farm Bureau’s e-newsletter for its Save Our Food campaign, look for sign-up links on many of the pages at SaveOurFood.org.

Connections delivers a broad range of articles compiled by Farm Bureau staff about farming and food issues and their impact on the foods consumers choose for their families.

Food for Thought

Food deserts—in Virginia?

A food desert is not a new geography term; it’s an apt description of areas where people with lower incomes either cannot afford healthy, nutritious food or don’t have affordable transportation to that food.

More than 150 census tracts in Virginia can be classified as food deserts, according to the 2000 U.S. Census. They include entire counties in Southwest and Southside Virginia, as well as slices of cities.

The term food desert was adopted by the Obama administration’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative Working Group, which has released a Web-based map highlighting more than 6,500 areas nationwide where the only local food sources are fast-food restaurants or small-scale convenience markets. The interactive map is available at ers.usda.gov/data/ fooddesert/fooddesert.html.

“We’ve seen a lot of demographic and population shifts over the past 20 and 30 years, and one thing we’ve seen is a large abandonment of rural areas,” said Spencer Neale, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation senior assistant An online map shows areas where people with lower incomes have director of commodity limited access to nutritious foods. marketing. “And with that comes a decline in the number of supermarkets and grocery stores in very rural areas. The small-town grocery store is no longer there, so people are at a disadvantage because it’s more difficult to find a selection of affordable and nutritious foods.”

Neale noted that many lower-income consumers in rural areas live 10 miles or more from a supermarket or other local food source—well beyond walking distance or even convenient driving distance in more rugged terrain. And urban consumers fare no better, he said, even though they may have the option of walking or public transportation. They often live in areas where grocery chains have moved out to follow a more profitable customer base in the suburbs.

Also, get The Real Dirt

Your Farm Bureau membership is helping to support the search for solutions.

Farm Bureau uses The Real Dirt, its video blog at VaFarmBureau.org and on YouTube (TheRealDirtVA), to share insights into issues of concern to the organization’s producer members.

Neale represents the organization and its farmer members on the Virginia Food System Council (See related article on Page 7), a group of government and private agencies and interest groups studying Virginia’s current food production and delivery system. He said the problem of food deserts is high on the council’s radar.

It is working on a statewide food system assessment and plans to release a report in November.

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

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>> save the date

Save Our Food festival returns More than 5,000 people found Virginia Farm Bureau’s 2010 Save Our Food Summer Festival to be a cool family fun option on a scorching-hot day.

This year, the festival will return, with a new name: the Virginia Food & Wine Festival. It will run from noon to 5 p.m. on July 24 in the air-conditioned Farm Bureau Center at The Meadow Event Park.

Guests will be able to sample lots of Virginia foods and wines, enjoy live music and children’s activities and watch some of Virginia’s top barbecue teams compete.

Details and driving directions are available at SaveOurFood.org, in the “Connect” section.

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AU T H O R I Z E D I N D E P E N D E N T AG E N T

800-229-7779

Virginia Farm Bureau Service Corporation is an independent authorized agent in Virginia for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Anthem Health Plans of Virginia, Inc. trades as Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia, and its service area is all of Virginia except for the City of Fairfax, the Town of Vienna, and the area east of State Route 123. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and its affiliated HMO HealthKeepers, Inc. are independent licensees of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. ®ANTHEM is a registered trademark. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For exclusions, limitations, terms under which the policy may be continued in force or discontinued, costs and complete details of the coverage, call or write your insurance agent or the company, whichever is applicable.

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SaveOurFood.org

Your Membership Advantage

Health care reform timeline On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed into law the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This legislation, along with the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, makes sweeping changes to the U.S. health care system. Those changes will be implemented over the next several years.

Here is the 2011 portion of the timeline for the implementation of key reform provisions that affect employers and individuals.

2011  Health insurance issuers offering group or individual health insurance coverage must annually report on the share of premium dollars spent on health care and provide consumer rebates for excessive medical loss ratios.

 The health care reform law conforms the definition of “qualified medical expenses” for health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts and HRAs to the definition used for the itemized tax deduction. Expenses for over-the-counter medicines and drugs may not be reimbursed by those plans unless they are accompanied by a prescription. There is an exception for insulin, and OTC medical supplies and devices still can be reimbursed without a prescription.

 The new law creates a Simple Cafeteria Plan to provide a vehicle through which small businesses can provide tax-free benefits to their employees, to ease the small employer’s administrative burden of sponsoring a cafeteria plan.

 In order to make prescription drug coverage more affordable for Medicare enrollees, the new law will provide a 50 percent discount on all brand-name drugs and biologics in the “donut hole.” It also begins phasing in additional discounts on brandname and generic drugs to completely fill the donut hole by 2020 for all Part D enrollees.

 The law provides a free, annual wellness visit and personalized prevention plan services for Medicare beneficiaries and eliminates cost-sharing for preventive services beginning in 2011.

 The law increased the additional tax on HSA withdrawals prior to age 65 that are not used for qualified medical expenses from 10 percent to 20 percent.

 The law created a long-term care insurance program for adults who become disabled. Participation will be voluntary, and the program is to be funded by voluntary payroll deductions. The program is technically effective Jan. 1, but significant portions are not required to be established until 2012.

Got health insurance concerns?

Your membership helps Farm Bureau enhance members’ lives by promoting and supporting agriculture. It also affords you access to a variety of benefits and services available to members of your immediate household. For more information or details on all of your Farm Bureau member benefits, contact your county Farm Bureau office or visit VaFarmBureau.org/Benefits.

QualSight has LASIK providers in 11 locations statewide When was the last time you had your eyes checked?

More than 11 million Americans have uncorrected refractive errors, according to a recent study conducted by the National Eye Institute.

Refractive errors are one of the most common—and correctable— vision problems in the United States.

Farm Bureau’s partnership with QualSight allows members to have LASIK vision correction performed at a savings of 40 percent to 50 percent off the national average cost through the QualSight managed care network of board-certified ophthalmologists.

Your cost covers a pre-operative appointment, the surgery, post-operative appointments and a one-year re-treatment warranty.

Financing is available for qualified members.

QualSight has LASIK providers in 11 Virginia locations, including Arlington, Lynchburg, Richmond and Virginia Beach. Members also have the option to have their surgery performed by QualSightaffiliated providers in North Carolina, Tennessee, Maryland or the District of Columbia.

Virginia Farm Bureau and its affiliates offer this program to members as a cost-savings initiative only and in no way recommend or endorse this or any other elective medical procedure. It is the responsibility of the interested member to evaluate the procedure.

To learn more, call 866-979-9575 or visit QualSight.com/-vafb.

Virginia Farm Bureau offers individuals and families Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield medical and dental insurance and medical and dental Medicare supplement plans. Members who are business owners have access to group health insurance products from Anthem and several other major insurance providers. Licensed staff at county Farm Bureau offices statewide can provide details.

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

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Cultivate JULY 2011

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Visit QualSight.com/-vafb, or call 866-979-9575 to schedule an initial appointment with a participating doctor near you.

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>> For more information about all of the services included in your Membership Advantage, call your county Farm Bureau office today or visit VaFarmBureau.org/benefits.

SaveOurFood.org

; Virginia seeing ‘unprecedented demand’ for local foods Story and photos by Kathy Dixon

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” the saying goes. But there are those who believe America’s basic food system is flawed, and there is a growing desire for more local foods systems.

These regional systems consist of partnerships between farmers and consumers, schools and local governments.

Ideally, they provide access to fresh, locally grown foods, even in areas that are not close to farms.

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Connectivity is crux of the local foods movement

A cheeseburger made with pasture-fed beef from D&M meats, paired with a salad made with hydroponic lettuce from Portwood Gardens and tomatoes bought at the Shenandoah Valley Produce Auction.

That’s what was on cafeteria trays at a Harrisonburg city school one day in May. “This is a typical lunch with food purchased from local farmers, but we don’t always have as many local ingredients,” said Andrea Early, director of school nutrition programs for the Harrisonburg school system. She has been trying for the past few years to incorporate local foods into the cafeteria menus as part of a farmto-school program.

Farm-to-school programs are just one example of local foods systems, which create direct connections between farmers and consumers.

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Harrisonburg schools are now purchasing 10 percent of their food from farmers within a 100-mile radius. This past school year they spent $81,000 on those purchases.

“I think it’s important that we keep the dollars here,” Early said.

“Buying locally supports local farmers. And with local produce, the quality is better because it’s not being shipped across the country.”

Her goal is to improve the diets of the 4,500 public school students in Harrisonburg, 78 percent of whom buy school lunches. “We’re increasing access to fresh, local foods for these kids,” Early said.

The Harrisonburg school system purchases local beef and hydroponic lettuce throughout the school year and often buys seasonal fruits and vegetables from the Shenandoah Valley Auction.

Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from April through November, the Shenandoah Valley Auction in Rockingham County is a source of fresh, local food and horticulture products for schools, restaurateurs and retailers.

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

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; Produce auction links growers with buyers

“A good thing for future generations”

On the same day that the local cheeseburger and salad were being served in Harrisonburg, Early had contracted with a buyer at the produce auction in Dayton to purchase tomatoes and strawberries.

“I got strawberries for $2 a quart, and that’s cheaper than through a distributor,” she said. Tomatoes, at $2.80 a pound, were more expensive than those from a wholesale supplier, but they were grown in a Virginia greenhouse. Early said that made them worth the difference.

Auctions are held Tuesdays and Fridays from April through November. Farmers bring cartloads of produce, plants and flowers, and an auctioneer sells them to the highest bidders.

At an early May auction, Virginia apples, asparagus, eggs, green onions, lettuce, rhubarb and strawberries were for sale.

Also available were cantaloupes and watermelons from Florida and Virginia-grown plants.

Dan Virts, manager of the Loudoun County Southern States Cooperative, was at the auction to buy plants to re-sell at his store.

“The quality here is better, and I like to see what I’m getting,” he said as he peered closely at some bedding plants.

Other buyers operate roadside stands where they supplement their own produce with goods from the auction to offer a greater variety.

Growers like the auction because they can bring a mixture of produce to one place and know that it all will be sold.

Kevin Showalter is a Rockingham County dairy farmer who started growing produce to supplement his income. He said that the produce auction allows people in the area to make a living by farming on a small piece of property.

“We’re not growing land, so anything that enables farmers to produce food on a small amount of land and then sell it at the auction is a good thing for future generations,” said Showalter, who serves on the auction board.

The auction was formed seven years ago by a group of Old Order Mennonites and modeled after successful auctions in Pennsylvania, said manager Jeff Heatwole. Shareholders own the auction, and there are nine employees.

Buyers and sellers must register to use the auction; there are currently 350 of each, Heatwole said. Sellers agree to a 10 percent consignment fee that is paid to the auction.

“It’s a convenient outlet for them to sell their produce,” he explained.

“The auction gives local farmers a way to sustain themselves.”

And it provides local food for buyers like the Harrisonburg school system.

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Local food systems need cohesion

Farm-to-school, wholesale produce auctions and inner-city gardens are all parts of a comprehensive local foods system.

In Virginia, there are pockets of those systems, but not a cohesive effort.

The Virginia Food System Council is trying to change that.

Formed in 2007, the council was created to look into developing a comprehensive local foods system. It consists of 24 organizations including agriculture groups, school representatives, food hubs and farmers. Virginia Farm Bureau has a representative on the council.

“There is an unprecedented demand for local foods, and some consider it a trend but it’s already a $7 billion annual trend that continues to grow,” said Eric Bendfeldt, a Virginia Cooperative Extension specialist and the council’s chairman.

The council’s mission is “to advance a nutrient-rich and safe food system for Virginians at all income levels, with an emphasis on access to local food, successful linkages between food producers and consumers, and a healthy, viable future for Virginia’s farmers and farmland.”

To that end, the council has held a series of farm-to-table forums across the state to explore Virginia’s food systems.

“We’ve held these forums because we want to find the challenges, gaps and issues that farmers and related organizations are facing,” Bendfeldt said.

The forums brought together farmers, educators, community leaders and others to brainstorm about how to strengthen Virginia’s food systems. The council plans to make a formal presentation on its findings to state legislators this fall.

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“Virginians spend at least $15 billion annually on food purchases, but 85 to 90 percent of that food comes from outside Virginia so there is an economic opportunity for more locally grown Virginia food products to be produced, processed, purchased and consumed than what’s currently occurring,” Bendfeldt said.

“A healthy, vibrant, resilient local and regional food system that builds and empowers local producers and contributes to the state’s economy through increased production, processing, distribution and consumption can help capture and retain more of the food dollars that are already circulating in the economy for economic recovery and growth.”

There are nine food hubs and four wholesale markets in Virginia, but they “don’t even know each other,” said Christopher Carpenter, special projects coordinator for Washington & Lee University, which buys 27 percent of its food from local farmers. Carpenter suggested that the definition of local should span the state. He buys apples from the Shenandoah Valley and trucks in squash and potatoes from Southeast Virginia; the university’s beef comes from a nearby farm.

Andrea Early, director of school nutrition programs for the Harrisonburg school system, said that in order to expand the local foods systems, there need to be preservation structures—such as canneries and flash-freezing facilities—in place. That would enable more schools and other organizations to purchase local foods year-round.

Until that happens, Early said, she doesn’t envision being able to purchase much more than 10 percent of the school systems’ food from local sources.

SaveOurFood.org

Auctioneer Lynden Wenger (right) sold strawberries, hanging baskets of flowers and other products in May at the Shenandoah Valley Auction.

Ambassador program open to young adults who care about agriculture You don’t have to come from a farming family to be the next Virginia Farm Bureau Ambassador. As long as you’re a young adult from a Virginia Farm Bureau member family and have a love for agriculture, you can apply.

The annual competition Shasta Sowers is for anyone 18 to 25 years old who wants to be a spokesperson for agriculture and represent Farm Bureau.

“We wanted the competition to be open to all members, because there are many young people who have a strong passion for agriculture, and they don’t all live on a farm,” said Janice Burton, chairman of the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Women’s Committee.

To enter, applicants must be Farm Bureau members; 18 years old and have not reached their 26th birthday by Dec. 31; and nominated by Oct. 15. Each must complete an application signed by their county Farm Bureau Women’s Committee chairman.

Applications are due Dec. 31.

The state-level winner will be announced at the 2012 VFBF Women’s Conference in March. He or she will receive a $3,000 scholarship from the Women’s Committee, and the first runner-up will receive $500.

The winner will make public appearances across the state.

The Farm Bureau Ambassador program began in 2006 as an evolution of the Miss Farm Bureau contest. It was opened to both genders in 2008.

This year’s winner, Shasta Sowers of Floyd County, is a sophomore at Virginia Tech majoring in agricultural sciences. She was last year’s runner up.

Sowers said that in 2008 and 2009, when she served as FFA state secretary for Virginia, she realized how much she loved to travel the state and advocate for the agriculture industry. She said the duties of Farm Bureau Ambassador are very similar.

“It’s an opportunity to meet new people, improve your public speaking skills and your knowledge of agriculture,” Sowers said.

“During the past few years of competing I have learned so much about Virginia Farm Bureau and have opened up new doors of opportunity.”

Sowers said she would recommend entering the contest to anyone who qualifies.

“Not only has it been fun, but it’s a great way to make connections, build a résumé and help pay for college.”

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SaveOurFood.org

Calling all college students with an interest in agriculture College students interested in agriculture have the opportunity to get involved with the agricultural community and Virginia Farm Bureau through the Collegiate Young Farmers program.

Taylor Fix, a Blue Ridge Community College student and member of the Valley Collegiate Young Farmers group, said that the program has given her the opportunity to deepen her passion for agriculture.

The Valley Collegiate Young Farmers group includes students from BRCD, Bridgewater College, Eastern Mennonite University and James Madison University.

Fix competed in the state-level 2009 Collegiate Young Farmers Discussion Meet, advancing to the final round, and in 2010 she advanced to national competition.

The Discussion Meet is a committee-style discussion of predetermined agricultural topics. Participants are judged on their ability to contribute to the discussion and move toward a consensus. This year’s Virginia competition will take place in November at BRCC. “The national competition was mindblowing, and that’s where I found that anybody can study and know the book material but your experiences and passion is what really shines through,” Fix said.

Emily Landrum, a member of the Virginia Tech Collegiate Young Farmers chapter said being involved with that group “is a great way to stay active in the ag community.

It also is one of the best ways to learn the truth about what is going on in the

agriculture world and helps you gain skills that will last a lifetime.”

The Virginia Tech chapter has been involved in many Agriculture Day and agriculture literacy projects. Its members also have participated in Virginia Tech’s Relay for Life and Young Farmers events organized by Virginia Farm Bureau Federation and American Farm Bureau Federation.

The Collegiate Young Farmers Program was formed to get students involved in agriculture while they are in school and enable them to transition into Farm Bureau after graduating. Virginia Tech’s Collegiate Young Farmers chapter was formed in 2000, followed by Ferrum College’s Agriculture Club in 2005, Virginia State University began its affiliation through its Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences Club in 2008, and the Valley Collegiate Young Farmers group was founded in 2010.

The VFBF Young Farmers Program is for people ages 18 to 35 who have an interest in agriculture and who want to make a difference by supporting Virginia’s largest industry.

For more information on existing collegiate chapters or to find out how to establish a new chapter at a Virginia school, contact Ron Saacke, associate director of the VFBF Women and Young Farmers Department at 804-290-1032 or ron.saacke@vafb.com. Or visit the Young Farmers website at VAFBYoungFarmers.com and VaFarmBureau.org/youngfarmers.

Young Farmers summer event will begin July 29 in Southampton There’s still time for young adults with an interest in agriculture to register for Virginia Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmers Summer Expo.

The event in Southampton County is scheduled for July 29 and 30. It is open to anyone ages 18 to 35 and is geared toward people who support agriculture through production, education, promotion and leadership.

This year’s event will afford participants a view of agriculture in Southeast Virginia and will include tours of farm equipment manufacturer Amadas Industries and the Tidewater Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Suffolk. There also will be several educational sessions held at the Paul D. Camp Community College Workforce Development Center in Franklin.

There is no registration fee.

Registration includes all program events and most meals. Participants are required to make and pay for their hotel arrangements.

The final agenda and registration information should be available by May. For updated information, visit VaFarmBureau.org/youngfarmers and access the Young Farmers newsletter.

Information also is available from the VFBF Women and Young Farmers Department at 804-290-1032.

Collegiate Young Farmers chapters are interested students’ connection to Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers Program for young adults.

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

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Plan ahead for potential summer storms Hurricanes, tornadoes and floods are more prevalent during the summer months, and planning ahead is critical.

“Every family should have a basic plan in place before a severe storm strikes,” said Jimmy Maass, safety manager for Virginia Farm Bureau. “When the storm happens there isn’t time to discuss what to do or where to go. You should discuss the plan ahead of time to avoid panic.”

Maass recommended keeping a fullystocked disaster kit on hand that includes at least a three-day supply of water; nonperishable meals; a flashlight; a batteryoperated or hand-cranked weather radio; extra batteries; a few blankets; a tarp and family members’ medications. Stock enough supplies for each family member, and designate a safe place for family members to meet after a storm.

Remember to include the special needs of infants, older adults, family members with disabilities, and pets when making plans, and keep personal identification with each person after a storm.

Other planning tips include keeping an inventory of all household items—using photographs, a written list or video—that can be turned in to the insurance company if it’s necessary to file a storm damage claim. It is important to keep documents

such as wills, mortgages and insurance papers in a safe place outside of the home, Maass added.

Before a storm hits, fill a bathtub that will serve as a source of non-drinking water, and tie down a gas grill that can be used to cook in the event of a power outage. Secure all outdoor items that could blow away or cause damage.

During severe storms, remember to stay in the lowest part of the house, such as a basement if possible, Maass said. Hallways and bathrooms without any windows also are recommended.

After a storm has passed, be aware of possible structural, electrical or gas-leak hazards in your home. If you suspect damage, shut off the electricity, natural gas and propane to avoid fire, electrocution or explosions. Use a flashlight instead of a candle or lantern to inspect your home after dark. Be on the lookout for frayed wires or sparks, and check for the smell of anything burning.

If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open all windows and leave the house immediately. Notify the gas company and the police or fire departments, and do not turn on the lights, smoke or do anything that could cause a spark.

Storm watches and warnings Hurricane or tropical storm watch: Hurricane or tropical storm conditions are possible in the specified area, usually within 36 hours. Check a weather radio or local radio or television station for information.

Hurricane or tropical storm warning: Hurricane or tropical storm conditions are expected in the specified area, usually within 24 hours.

Tornado watch: Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms. Watch the sky, and stay tuned to a weather radio or local radio or television station.

Tornado warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.

Evacuation order: The most important instruction you will receive. If issued, leave immediately.

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SaveOurFood.org

STORM DAMAGE? “ When the storm happens there isn’t time to discuss what to do or where to go. You should discuss the plan ahead of time to avoid panic.”

— Jimmy Maass, safety manager for Virginia Farm Bureau

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

Reporting claims quickly helps get you efficient service If your vehicle or property has sustained storm damage, filing your insurance claim right away can help you get served in a timely manner.

After a severe storm, Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. staff gear up to handle members’ claims, using additional claims adjusters and conveniences such as drive-up claims centers when necessary.

But Farm Bureau staff need to know where they are needed, explained Rick Mattox, VFBMIC vice president of claims.

“The sooner claims are reported, the sooner we are able to assess the impact of the storm and send adjusters where they are most needed.”

After filing a claim, Mattox said, policyholders should wait until they have spoken with a claims adjuster before seeking repair estimates. Policyholders also are responsible for protecting any auto or property from further damage. That means taking steps such as covering a broken windshield to keep rain out of a car.

In the case of storm-related claims involving computers, audio and video equipment and small appliances, policyholders should be aware that the devices will have to be examined by a certified technician to determine the cause of failure. Farm Bureau will pay the inspection fee charged by the technician, regardless of whether the claim is covered by the policy.

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Cultivate JULY 2011

SaveOurFood.org

Extension: Putting information within reach

photos by kathy dixon

Extension services in demand even in — state’s most urban county —

“I think people trust Extension because we have an unbiased view and we’re not trying to sell something” said Adria Bordas, an agriculture and natural resources agent for Virginia Cooperative Extension in Fairfax County.

By Kathy Dixon

I

n Virginia’s most populated county, which also houses the CIA and half of the metropolitan Washington-area Fortune 500 companies, more than 35,000 citizens and businesses are receiving assistance from the Fairfax County Cooperative Extension office.

Adria Bordas, the agriculture and natural resources extension agent there, said that although the county is urban there are plenty of backyard gardeners and countless

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

landscape companies and nurseries.

In Virginia, gross receipts for the green industry totaled $1.2 billion in 2007, according to the Virginia Green Industry Survey conducted by the National Agriculture Statistics Service, and a significant amount was in Fairfax County.

Many of the landscape companies and nurseries take advantage of the horticulture expertise of Bordas and her 400 volunteer Master Gardeners. These volunteers require little funding other than the initial training provided by the state, but they are

contributing to the county’s economic base.

“I’m only one person, but the Master Gardeners have the knowledge to help so I steer people to them,” Bordas said.

The agency keeps track of how many people request help with plant care, insects and disease control at the Extension plant clinics held at farmers’ markets and in county libraries. The number of clinic attendees annually is 35,000, but many more of Fairfax’s 1 million-plus residents call the Extension office for advice or attend classes taught by Bordas or the hundreds of Master Gardener volunteers.

The Master Gardener Program, which operates through Virginia Cooperative Extension, trains volunteers to share their gardening knowledge with the community.

The unpaid helpers provide gardening classes to community groups, and they teach a 4th-grade curriculum in local classrooms. They also staff a horticulture help line, conduct plant clinics, speak to interested organizations, write articles for local publications and work in the diagnostic laboratory at Merrifield Garden Center.

Misty Kuceris has been a Fairfax County Master Gardener for 11 years. She works as a volunteer in the Fairfax Extension office’s diagnostic plant clinic a couple days a week.

In the clinic, she and other volunteers identify plant diseases and pests, and Bordas reviews their findings before emailing the results to county residents.

“Because of what I learned in the Master Gardener Program, I got a paid part-time job at a nursery,” Kuceris said proudly.

Extension and the Master Gardeners bring the results of valuable horticulture research to the general public and to local landscapers and nurseries. Without the program, that connection would be lost.

“I think people trust Extension because we have an unbiased view and we’re not trying to sell something,” Bordas said. “We’re just here to help all our residents.”

Cultivate JULY 2011

15

Extension: Putting information within reach

More than 35,000 citizens and businesses are receiving assistance from the Fairfax County Cooperative Extension office.

Bordas conducted a class on backyard gardening for Fairfax County employees during the county government’s week with a focus on health and wellness.

Nutrition emphasized In addition to Master Gardeners, Extension operates a Master Food Volunteer Program.

People receive food, health and nutrition education and then go out into the community and share it with others.

“They take that knowledge and work with others in the community to extend the reach of the family and consumer science Extension agents,” said Stephanie Diehl, area coordinator for Extension’s Northern District family nutrition program.

One participant of “Family, Foods and Fun—A Focus on Locally Grown Foods,” a class for parents and children, had this to say: “The techniques of meal planning, shopping and budgeting have been invaluable. Each class supplied a wealth of information on eating healthier, locating and shopping locally, and proper sanitary ways of preparing that week’s meal.”

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Cultivate JULY 2011

Diehl added that through the Virginia Cooperative Extension’s U.S. Department of Agriculture-funded Family Nutrition Program, assistants in local Extension offices are able to provide nutrition education to families with limited resources. “We want them to make healthy choices at the store, to handle food in a safe way and better utilize the food dollars that they have.”

Programs for youth Another nutrition program offered by Extension is “Cooking Matters.” A family and consumer sciences Extension agent and a program assistant partner with a local chef to teach food preparation skills. Sometimes this is taught to adults, but often it is taught to youth, and some programs work with all family members.

Other youth programs include 4-H, which teaches leadership and life skills. A large component of 4-H involves caring for and

showing livestock at county and state fairs.

While that may seem like a rural activity, it doesn’t necessarily have to be.

Bordas said that in Fairfax the 4-H students take care of animals at historical Frying Pan Farm Park and are allowed to borrow the livestock for shows. “So kids who grow up in the city or move here from a more rural area can still get involved,” she said.

And for high school students not interested in livestock, Extension has a program called “Reality Store,” Diehl said. It presents teens with a financial scenario and challenges them to make ends meet.

Diehl said her son participated and was told to pretend he was married with two children and had a job that paid him a certain amount. His goal was to figure out how to pay the mortgage, transportation costs, child care, other bills, as well as taxes, and still have money left over.

“It’s a great program to teach youth how to earn, budget and save money,” she said.

SaveOurFood.org

Extension: Putting information within reach

Extension provides numerous services — to consumers and farmers alike —

By Kathy Dixon

A

ssessing community needs for child care, cultivating perennials and promoting small business development are just drops in the bucket of services provided by Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Through its county offices and specialized agents, Extension brings the resources of Virginia’s land-grant universities—Virginia Tech and Virginia State University—to consumers and farmers alike.

“When Extension was established, it was created to address a spectrum of needs; from production on the farm to consumption at the table,” said Dr. Edwin Jones, director of Virginia Cooperative Extension and associate dean of Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “Extension was all about how to improve the lives of people, and it’s still about that.”

The Hatch Act of 1887 created the agricultural experiment station program and authorized direct payment of federal grant funds to establish research centers at the state’s land-grant institutions. The first U.S. Extension agent, Seaman Knapp, visited Texas farmers in 1903 to discuss the spread of the cotton boll weevil and began demonstration farms to research how to combat the pest.

Three years later, Knapp came to Virginia and asked T.O. Sandy of Burkeville in Nottoway County to start a demonstration farm in Virginia.

Today, Extension staff deliver educational programs to Virginia citizens through a network of 106 local, county and city offices, six 4-H educational centers and 12 Agricultural Research and Extension Centers.

Extension is funded through the cooperative efforts of local, state and federal governments.

There are four main program areas under the umbrella of Extension. Agriculture and natural resources is focused on helping

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

Extension agent Brad Jarvis (left), who is based in Madison County, helps Madison farmer Joe Johnson collect a hay sample to test for nutrient value.

farmers be more productive; family and consumer sciences focuses on the health and nutrition of Virginia consumers; 4-H teaches youth leadership and life skills; and community viability concentrates on strengthening the economic viability of communities.

For farmers, research conducted at Virginia Tech and VSU and at the ARECs can be vital to their operations.

“Research has to be translated into practical application,” Jones said. And that’s what local Extension agents do for farmers.

Likewise, family and consumer science Extension agents interpret ground-breaking nutrition and health research and apply it for those living in their communities.

Jan Makela, a Rappahannock County resident, said her son was involved in 4-H, and she has worked with the local Extension agent to get local foods into the schools in her community.

“I am always calling them about some bug or about some plant that’s dying and what I need to do to fix that,” Makela said.

“They are always very willing to help me. I use them all the time, and I’m just thrilled they’re here.”

Extension “helps farmers be profitable, helps the community be healthy and helps youth with leadership development,” Jones said. “Local agents create trust in the knowledge that’s transmitted.”

Homeowners can take soil samples to their local Extension offices to determine whether they’re applying the right amount of nutrients to their yards. And agents can help people create raised-bed gardens or plan flower borders for their yards.

Young people ages 5 to 19 who participate in 4-H learn leadership, citizenship and an array of life skills.

An important part of Extension’s ability to meet the needs of Virginians is through the use of trained volunteers, Jones said.

The Virginia Association of Adult 4-H Volunteer Leaders Inc. and the Virginia Master Gardeners are just two examples of volunteers who extend the universities’ reach. The positions require little funding other than the cost of initial training provided by the state.

And now, in the atmosphere of funding cuts and re-allocations, maintaining an Extension presence in all Virginia localities is of high importance, Jones said.

Cultivate JULY 2011

17

Extension: Putting information within reach

Madison d County ffarmer Joe Johnson h (right) h and d Extension agent Steve Hopkins k check h k Johnson’s h orchardgrass h d ffor pest d damage. “We need d local l l agents who understand the area and the farming that’s done there,” Johnson said.

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SaveOurFood.org

Extension: Putting information within reach

Local Extension offices and agents are — a Farm Bureau priority —

Kevin Powell (left), a cattle manager on a Madison County farm, said having local Extension agents like Hopkins is invaluable when he’s got herd concerns. “I can call Steve and (Madison County counterpart) Brad, and they can come out to my farm and identify problems. You can’t do that with a computer.”

By Kathy Dixon Jerry Spraker has an employee who’s decided to grow an acre of peppers in Wythe County.

Spraker, who serves as the Wythe County Farm Bureau president, said the county’s agriculture and natural resources Extension agent met with the man and explained how to get started, what kind of plants to buy and how to sell the peppers once they grow.

“Extension offers people a one-stop shop,” Spraker said. “If they don’t have the expertise to help, they’ll refer you to someone who does.”

Wythe County has never been without an ANR Extension agent, and Spraker said he hopes that never happens. “There would just be a void in our county without an Extension agent.”

That’s why Wythe County Farm Bureau joined its counterparts in the Virginia Farm

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

Bureau Federation to press the General Assembly for full funding for Virginia Cooperative Extension programs.

Amidst threats to cut the number of agents, the Extension budget and the funding for various research programs, Farm Bureau staff and members worked to convince legislators of the importance of local Extension agents and offices.

“We have asked the General Assembly to ensure that local Extension offices house at least one agriculture Extension agent, one 4-H agent and one secretary and that those positions are funded,” said Martha Moore, VFBF vice president of governmental relations. “Extension helps farmers remain profitable, and the agents translate complex research information into practical, hands-on application for farmers.”

In 2003, Extension and the ARECs faced a huge budget reduction, which has influenced the amount of staffing.

Extension is treated as a separate agency for funding purposes and relies on dedicated state, federal and local support. It can’t be supported by student-generated revenues and falls under the direction of Virginia Tech’s board of visitors.

The General Assembly has supported building back the losses, but state budget cuts in 2007 eliminated most of the gains that had been made, Moore said.

In 2010, Virginia Tech proposed a restructuring plan for Extension, but Virginia farmers “felt the proposed plan abandoned the emphasis of the local delivery of service,” Moore said.

Since then, Virginia Tech’s president has suspended the restructuring plan, committing to further engage internal and external stakeholders in developing a restructuring plan to meet the challenges of limited resources.

Cultivate JULY 2011

19

Glass is always half-full for positive, award-winning agent

By Sara Owens

photos by sara owens

The glass is always half-full for Clay Francis.

“I’m not a worrier. I just get in and get the job done,” Francis said.

The sales management team of Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. recently named Francis the winner of the 2011 Ralph Stokes Award.

The award is the top recognition given annually to an insurance professional who has a high degree of integrity, offers Farm Bureau members excellent service and has earned the respect of his or her peers.

“To be nominated by your peers, the people you work with, is kind of cool,” Francis said. “It never crossed my mind for one minute, one second, that I’d win. I am honored, but humbled.”

Ray Leonard, a regional sales manager, said that Francis “truly embodies the core values legendary Farm Bureau agent Ralph Stokes lived by—service and success.

“While most think of Ralph as a dedicated agent who provided his members with superior service, Ralph was also a very competitive agent who was determined to be successful and to be a winner,” Leonard said. “For more than 25 years, Clay Francis

has not only provided his members with great service, but he has also achieved a level of success that few others have been able to match.”

Francis began his career at Farm Bureau in 1985 as an agent in Southampton County. He became an agency manager in 2000.

He has always won professional awards—so many that he can’t keep track of them all. One in particular stands out, though. In 1999, he was named Virginia Farm Bureau’s Employee of the Year— one of only two agents who has received the award.

After Hurricane Floyd in 1999, the Southampton County Farm Bureau office was out of commission. Without being asked, Francis took steps to run the office out of his home.

“The office wasn’t flooded, but all around Franklin flooded and the office was without phone lines,” he said. “I lived in Capron, and our phone lines came through Emporia. They worked, so I ran the office out of my home by generator.

“You have to be adaptable. It’s about teamwork and family. You don’t desert your children, and you don’t desert your employees or policyholders.”

Francis holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Old Dominion University. He grew up in Capron and continues to live in Southampton with his wife, Maryanne, and their Yorkshire

“I am honored, but humbled,” said Ralph Stokes Award winner Clay Francis of Southampton County. He’s shown with his wife, Maryanne, and Scarlett, their Yorkshire terrier.

SaveOurFood.org

terrier, Scarlett. They have two adult children, Joshua and Lindsey. Daughter Lindsey Rush is a member service specialist for Henrico Farm Bureau Inc. When he isn’t in the office, Francis is hard at work in the kitchen.

“I’m a good cook,” he said with a laugh.

“I’m reasonably good.”

During middle school and high school, Francis worked for a caterer. He now serves as a guest chef at Southern Sisters Bakery and Eatery in Courtland.

“When someone’s sick or out for some reason, I step in. It’s a lot of fun. Everything there is made from scratch. It’s really great.”

Another of his passions is antiquing.

“I love to collect antiques and find good bargains at flea markets,” Francis said. “If someone I know is looking for a specific piece of furniture, I’ll find it.”

Francis also enjoys working in his yard and garden and entertaining friends and family at home.

Retired agent Ralph Stokes of Smyth County, for whom Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co.’s Ralph Stokes Award is Stokes named, died Feb. 28.

Mr. Stokes sold Farm Bureau insurance for 32 years. He was known for his motivation and for a high level of mobility, despite the fact that he used a wheelchair while serving policyholders in remote areas.

“He was and will remain a Farm Bureau legend,” said Donnie Knowlson, senior vice president of sales and marketing.

Farm Bureau established the annual Ralph Stokes Award for insurance professionals in 1986, the same year Mr. Stokes retired.

Francis also enjoys cooking, and he sometimes subs for staff at a local café.

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In the Garden

Crapemyrtles are popular drought-proof trees

C

rapemyrtles are among the most popular garden plants for summer color and winter visual interest, said horticulturalist Mark Viette.

“Crapemyrtles bloom all summer long and are fantastic for neglected areas of the yard,” he said. “They can survive droughts easily and really are foolproof.”

Different varieties have different mature heights, so it is important to pick the right size crepe myrtle for your landscape, Viette said. They bloom white, purple, pink and red, and their foliage is either green or burgundy. Other than Japanese beetles, common pests present no problems.

“If you live in a colder climate you can easily plant a crapemyrtle in a 20- to 30-gallon container and bring the container into a garage or basement during cold weather,” Viette said.

Crapemyrtles should be pruned after the threat of cold weather has passed.

“By May you can easily see which parts will grow well,” Viette said.

Crapemyrtles can be treated as a tree or a shrub. If you want a tree, prune to expose the trunk’s bark and to remove any side shoots. For a shrub, prune the crapemyrtle so it is 12 to 18 inches tall.

Thin out your crapemyrtle by 20 percent each year, Viette said.

“You also want to deadhead the crepe myrtle by removing the seed pods.”

He recommended keeping some of the new growth at the bottom of a tree-pruned crapemyrtle. If one of the main branches dies or sustains storm damage, newer growth eventually can take its place.

Crapemyrtles are available in numerous summer-y colors and mature heights.

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SaveOurFood.org

In the Garden

norm hyde

For shade gardens, use large, varied groups of plants

Varied groups of shade-loving plants can create an attractive garden corner while preventing soil erosion. Hostas and ferns are two common choices.

E

ver wondered if anything will grow in that shady spot in your yard? There are many varieties of plants that thrive in shade, according to horticulturist Mark Viette.

“Trees take all of the moisture out of the ground, so you are going to want to grow plants that can deal with that type of environment,” he said.

Viette suggested ferns, hostas and

begonias for shady areas. He recommends planting them in large, varied groups.

“It just looks nicer when you have a variety of plants in groups,” he said.

Some plants, like hostas, can get large, so it is important to space new plants 24 inches apart. Others, like begonias, will reseed themselves each year or will develop seed pods that drop to the ground and sprout during warmer weather.

Mark Viette appears on Down Home Virginia, Virginia Farm Bureau’s monthly television program. Viette and his father operate the Andre Viette Farm and Nursery in Augusta County and have a live radio show broadcast by more than 60 mid-Atlantic stations each Saturday morning. They also are members of the Augusta County Farm Bureau. Andre Viette currently serves on the organization’s board of directors, and Mark Viette is a former board member.

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

Magnolia trees, hydrangea bushes and the dramatic Japanese painted fern also grow well in shade, Viette said.

Planting ground covers in shady areas will help prevent runoff and erosion and help tree roots filter water. Pine needles are a good shade garden mulch; using only 2 to 3 inches of pine needles helps keep soil from drying.

To find the station nearest you that airs Down Home Virginia, or to view the show online, visit VaFarmBureau.org.

Cultivate JULY 2011

23

Good for You!

Stay hydrated with fresh, seasonal produce

Drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated during hot weather, but fruits such as watermelon, grapes and strawberries are good sources of water as well.

By Kathy Dixon Drinking water is the perfect way to stay hydrated during the hot summer months, but it’s not the only way.

Most fruits and vegetables contain as much as 90 percent water, said Crystal Barber, a registered dietitian and Virginia Cooperative Extension family and consumer sciences agent in Portsmouth.

“Summer is the perfect opportunity to enjoy locally grown produce and stay hydrated all at the same time,” Barber said.

Why is it so important to stay hydrated?

“We could probably survive for weeks without food; however, we could live only a few days without water,” she said.

Water constitutes about 65 percent of an adult’s body weight and a higher percentage of a child’s body weight.

Muscle tissue is 75 percent water, and fat tissue contains 10 percent water.

Water lubricates and cushions joints, carries nutrients and waste, regulates normal body temperature and maintains blood volume.

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Cultivate JULY 2011

Experts disagree on how much water people should drink daily, and an individual’s needs will vary depending on what he or she is doing. A vigorous exercise workout can be as intensive at farm labor, Barber noted, and can require additional hydration.

“My sources say men should get 3.7 quarts of liquids each day, which includes water, other liquids and food,” Barber said.

“Women need 2.7 quarts, children need about 1.5 quarts and pregnant women should ingest 3 quarts of water a day.”

Coffee, tea, sodas and alcohol are beverage choices, but the caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate your body and should be consumed in moderation, Barber said. They increase fluid loss through increased urination and might not offer the best overall nutritional quality.

Barber suggested choosing healthier selections like low-fat milk, 100 percent fruit juices, sports drinks and water with a slice of lemon. Of those, water is still the best option, she said.

Everyone loses water every day. If you don’t replace it, you can become dehydrated.

Additionally, the body’s internal temperature can rise when lost water is not replaced. That can lead to heat-related disorders such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke.

So drink or eat up. Approximately 81 percent of people’s daily water intake comes from beverages, with the remaining 19 percent coming from foods. Foods that are good sources of water include grapefruit, grapes, gelatin, lettuce, soups, strawberries and watermelon.

“My favorite way to stay hydrated is to create and then eat various salads with fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs and then chill out under a huge shady tree,” Barber said. “I regularly eat apples as a snack and marvel how after each bite the water content hydrates my mouth and cleanses my teeth.”

Additional benefits to staying hydrated are improved complexion and muscle definition. And if you’re trying to lose weight, water can help make you feel full and reduce the temptation to eat when you’re not hungry.

Symptoms of dehydration: Confusion Dry mouth Extreme thirst Feeling dizzy or lightheaded Headache Little or no urine, or urine that is darker than usual • No tears when crying • Sleepiness or fatigue Don’t wait until you notice symptoms of dehydration to act.

It can be hard to recognize when you’re dehydrated, especially as you age. Actively prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of water.

• • • • • •

SaveOurFood.org

Good for You!

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

Cultivate JULY 2011

25

Taste of Virginia

?

GREEN TOMATO CAKE BETTER THAN A MOVIE

?

Green Tomato Cake ingredients

2 cups chopped green tomatoes 1 tablespoon salt ½ cup butter 2 cups white sugar 2 eggs 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt ½ cup raisins Green Tomato Cake

½ cup chopped pecans whipped topping, mint sprigs and pecans for garnish

You may have eaten fried green tomatoes or seen the movie of the same name, but chef John Maxwell’s green tomato cake is unique.

“It’s crispy, brown, delicious and sweet,” Maxwell said. “And it makes use of tomatoes earlier than the regular tomato season.”

Green tomatoes are nothing more than unripened red tomatoes, and they have the same nutritional benefits as red ones, including vitamin C and lycopene, Maxwell said.

preparation

Place chopped tomatoes in a bowl and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon salt. Let stand 10 minutes. Place in a colander, rinse with cold water and drain. Pat tomatoes dry.

Preheat oven to 350°. Grease and flour a 9”x13” baking pan.

Blend butter and sugar together. Add eggs, and beat until batter is creamy.

Sift together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, soda and ¼ teaspoon salt. Add raisins and nuts to the dry mixture; add all dry ingredients to batter, and mix well. Dough will be very stiff.

Stir in drained tomatoes. Pour batter into the prepared pan, and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake’s center comes out clean.

Garnish slices with whipped topping, mint and pecans.

Chef John Maxwell appears each month on Down Home Virginia, Virginia Farm Bureau’s monthly television program, courtesy of Virginia Grown, a program of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. He’s also director of the Food Service Management Program at the Culinary Institute of Virginia in Norfolk.

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To find the station nearest you that airs Down Home Virginia, or to view the show online, visit VaFarmBureau.org.

SaveOurFood.org

Taste of Virginia

CLAMS + FRESH, LOCAL VEGGIES + PASTA = ? A REFRESHING SUMMER DISH ?

Clam and Corn Spaghetti INGREDIENTS

6 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 cups diced sweet onions 6 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup fresh corn kernels, cut from two uncooked ears ½ teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon salt

Clam and Corn Spaghetti

½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Fresh clams paired with local farmers’ market produce makes for one tasty dish, said Chef John Maxwell.

And because the recipe calls for wholewheat pasta, “this dish is generally good for you,” he said.

After cutting the corn kernels from the cobs, save the cobs for making soup stock, Maxwell suggested.

²⁄³ cup dry white wine or grape or apple juice ½ cup chopped fresh basil ½ cup chopped fresh parsley 2 pounds fresh clams PREPARATION

Cook pasta according to package directions, about 8 minutes.

Reserve ¼ cup of the cooking liquid; drain the pasta.

Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, begin warming the oil. Sauté onions and garlic in hot oil, stirring often, for 2 minutes. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low and cook.

Stir occasionally until very soft and just beginning to brown, about 10 to 12 minutes.

Uncover, increase heat to medium-high, stir in corn, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute.

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables; stir to coat. Stir in wine, and bring to a simmer. Add chopped basil and parsley.

Stir in the reserved cooking liquid, and add the clams. Cover and simmer, stirring often, until the clams open, about 5 minutes. Stir in the pasta.

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

Cultivate JULY 2011

27

Diggin’ It!

DIG INTO

A GARDEN OF SUMMER READING!

S

ummer is when many people enjoy growing their own food, right in their backyards.

Not all gardens look the same. You can read about unique gardens in The Ugly Vegetables, City Green and The Curious Garden.

INGREDIENTS • 2 bottles tomato juice • 2 packages frozen mixed vegetables • 1 onion, chopped • 2 stalks celery, chopped opped • salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS Put all ingredients in a large saucepot, and cook over medium heat until boiling. Reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are cooked through.

The Ugly Vegetables

by Grace Lin

 TRY THIS! Enjoy vegetables in a soup, just like the characters in The Ugly Vegetables.

Remember to have an adult help you in the kitchen. You can use frozen vegetables or fresh ones.

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Marcy and Miss Rosa started their garden in a coffee can – you can do the same thing!

SUPPLIES • empty coffee or large soup can • nail and hammer (to punch drainage holes in the bottom of the can)) • paint • small rocks for drainage • potting soil • seeds of your choice

DIRECTIONS

ISBN: 9781570914911 (suggested age: elementary) This book takes readers into the backyard for the process of preparing, planting, and harvesting a vegetable garden. Mother and daughter join their neighbors in planting a garden, but the daughter wonders why their garden can’t be as pretty as those of their flower-growing neighbors. Discover why sometimes the best things come in the strangest packages!

 TRY THIS!

City Green by DyAnne Disalvo-Ryan ISBN: 9780688127862 (suggested age: elementary)

1. Wash out your can and, with an adult’s help, punch drainage holes in the bottom of the can.

2. Use the paint to decorate your can.

3. Place a small handful of rocks at the bottom of the can for drainage.

4. Fill the rest of the can with potting soil.

5. Plant your seeds the appropriate depth according to the seed pack.

6. Water the seeds, place the can in a sunny spot and watch to see what happens!

You don’t have to live in a rural area to enjoy a garden. Join Marcy and her neighbors as they transform a vacant lot into a vibrant community garden.

SaveOurFood.org

Diggin’ It!

STAMP ART!

The Curious Garden by Peter Brown ISBN: 9780316015479 (suggested age: lower elementary) Watch Liam discover and tend a railway garden and bring life and color to his once-dreary city when the curious plants begin to spread.

 TRY THIS! Brighten up your house with some artwork using vegetables as stamps.

SUPPLIES

DIRECTIONS

• fruits and/or vegetables, such as apples, potatoes, peppers, cucumber • kitchen knife • paint in a shallow dish • construction paper

1. Begin by having an adult help you cut the fruits and vegetables in half. You might also choose to carve designs in them.

2. Dip the food in the paint, and use it to stamp on the construction paper.

Solve it!

Unscramble the tiles to reveal a message! Answer below.

E E D NT 1

EA D D

2

4

5

S

AN 6

PL A 7

Parents, grandparents and teachers! For more summer reading suggestions and activities, visit Agriculture in the Classroom online at AgInTheClass.org.

7

2

P L A N T

5

1

A

S EE D

6

4

3

AN D

R EAD

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

Answer to Solve it!

a

3

R A

Cultivate JULY 2011

29

County Farm Bureau women’s committees recognized for community programs Winners of the Outstanding Women’s Activity Award for Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Women’s Program participants were recognized this spring at the VFBF Women’s Conference.

In addition to the district- and state-level awards, a Chairman’s Award was presented to honor the most-improved committee.

The awards recognized excellence among activities that fulfill the Women’s Program purpose: promoting agriculture and educating communities on the importance of the industry, as well as recruiting new committee members.

Northern District The Loudoun County Women’s Committee collaborated with local Virginia Cooperative Extension staff to hold a two-day program for fourth-graders on farm animal care and farm activities during different seasons of the year.

Capital District The Powhatan County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee organized a Farm to School Day for local second-graders that included live animals, farm equipment and a safety program.

Southside District The Campbell County Women’s Committee partnered with local agencies to hold an Agriculture Day event for the public at a local farm.

Southeast District The Greensville County Women’s Committee held a Healthy Kids Day that focused on the contributions of agriculture to a healthy lifestyle.

Central District The Fluvanna County Women’s Committee created an educational display that focused on modern food production at a local event that drew more than 5,000 people.

Southwest District – State winner The Smyth County Women’s Committee collaborated with local businesses and agencies to promote agriculture through numerous exhibits at an event called “Save Our Food the Smyth County Farm Bureau Way!”

Eastern District The King William County Women’s Committee conducted a committee membership drive, seeking input through their county Farm Bureau newsletter and inviting potential new members to a salad supper.

Valley District The Augusta County Women’s Committee provided snacks, fruit and a misting tent for participants in the Bike Virginia event, while sharing information about Farm Bureau and local agriculture and raising $1,000 for the Agriculture in the Classroom program.

Midwest District The Floyd County Women’s Committee conducted a program that taught local fourth-graders how soil supports plant growth; how to wash vegetables for meal preparation; and how to make wrap sandwiches with healthy ingredients.

Chairman’s Award The recently organized Botetourt County Women’s Committee recruited 11 new members and donated Learning Barns and agriculture-related books and other materials to all of their county elementary schools.

Member Marketplace CROPS ANTIQUE APPLE TREES – Summer Rambo, Wolf River, Virginia Beauty, Yellow Transparent. Over 100 different varieties available for planting. Catalog $3. Write: Urban Homestead, 818-A Cumberland Street, Bristol, VA 24201.

276-466-2931. www.OldVaApples.com AZOMITE – Mineral supplement with over 70 trace elements. Go to www.

Azomite.com for Va. dealers. 540-3733276.

DEER AND RABBIT REPELLENT – $12.95 makes 10 gallons. Safe, effective, long lasting. 540-586-6798, www.repels.net TONY T’s APPLE FARM & KITCHEN – Front Royal Farmers Market JuneOctober, Thursdays 3-7, Saturdays 9-1.

30

Cultivate JULY 2011

Organic berries, apples, baked goods. apple-farm22630@hotmail.com, 540622-2612.

STANDBY GENERATOR – 30KW on trailer, power shaft and double throw switch included, $1,800. 434-848-3444.

by appointment. Checkout www.

RidersBackfieldFarmBeef.com, 540923-4036.

WATERMELONS – Available July 31.

Large orders for events are welcome. aadkinspen@aol.com, 804-926-6231.

WANTED – International B275 diesel tractor to purchase. Please call, leave message 434-286-3795.

RABBITS – Young bunnies and broodstock. Breeds for pets or meat, cages. 804-370-9767.

FARM EQUIPMENT

LIVESTOCK

620 – John Deere. 540-872-3323.

ANGUS BULLS – Calving ease, semen tested, excellent bloodlines, reasonably priced and good selection. Delivery available, CStock Farm, Scottsville. Day 434-286-2743 after 7 p.m. 434-2862076 or 434-286-2423.

BRIDGE – 3 I beams, 36x12x62.5 feet, $6,000. Nights 804-457-4461.

FORD – 1952 8N excellent, back rubber fenders, etc., not running, $1,000. 434942-4534.

FORD 505 – Belt driver, 7-ft. 3-pt. hitch sickle bar mower, excellent condition.

434-906-4699.

MADISON COUNTY – Locally raised all natural 100% pastured, grain finished Angus, Angus x Hereford beef. Wholesale-sides, retail-pounds and select packages via UPS shipping. Purchases at farm

REGISTERED CHAROLAIS BULLS – High quality and easy calving EPD’s from $975 to $1,675. Abingdon, 276628-9543.

LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT LIVESTOCK BARNS – Hay sheds, rough and dressed lumber. Metal roofing, we make our own tin, 20 colors. Max Kendall Lumber and Tin, Axton, Va., www.maxkendalllumber. com Toll free 888-434-2825.

SaveOurFood.org

County Farm Bureau Offices Accomack

757-787-4208

Frederick

540-869-8650

Northumberland-Lancaster

804-435-0083

Albemarle

434-293-5775

Giles

540-921-1777

Nottoway

434-292-4389

Alleghany

540-962-3961

Giles

540-626-3201

Orange

540-672-3447

Amelia

804-561-2169

Gloucester-Mathews

804-725-3555

Page

540-743-5082

Amherst

434-946-5336

Gloucester-Mathews

804-642-3602

Patrick

276-694-7108

Appomattox

434-352-7851

Goochland

804-556-4119

Pittsylvania

434-432-2381

Augusta

540-886-2353

Goochland

804-290-1502

Pittsylvania

434-792-7484

Augusta

540-943-9820

Grayson

276-773-3091

Powhatan

804-598-3081

Bedford

540-586-9103

Grayson

276-236-7210

Powhatan

804-897-4989

Bedford

434-385-5239

Greene

434-985-7057

Prince Edward

434-392-3050

Bland

276-688-4341

Greensville

434-634-9471

Prince George

804-541-0559

Botetourt

540-992-2062

Halifax

434-572-4529

Prince William-Fairfax

703-368-6813

Brunswick

434-848-3542

Hanover

804-798-6534

Pulaski

540-674-5119

Brunswick

434-584-0290

Hanover

804-730-8730

Rappahannock

540-987-8225

Buckingham

434-983-2583

Henrico

804-270-6400

Richmond

804-333-4410

Campbell

434-332-5411

Henrico

804-737-4999

Roanoke

540-342-2626

Caroline

804-633-9825

Henry

276-638-7760

Roanoke

540-562-3710

Carroll

276-728-4103

Highland-Bath

540-468-2605

Rockbridge

540-463-3603

Carroll

276-236-7210

Isle Of Wight

757-242-6730

Rockingham

540-434-6778

Isle Of Wight

757-365-0400

Russell

276-889-1119

Charles City-James CityNew Kent-York

804-966-2310

King George

540-775-9650

Russell

276-596-9036

CC/JC/NK/YK

757-564-3929

King and Queen

804-769-2580

Scott

276-386-7411

CC/JC/NK/YK

757-595-7143

King and Queen

804-785-9431

Shenandoah

540-459-4019

Charlotte

434-542-5822

King William

804-769-2580

Smyth

276-783-6148

Chesapeake

757-546-8000

Lee

276-346-2363

Southampton

757-653-9341

Chesterfield

804-748-5467

Loudoun

540-751-1111

Spotsylvania

540-786-7575

Chesterfield

804-639-4070

Loudoun

703-858-0545

Stafford

540-899-9454

Clarke

540-869-8650

Louisa

540-967-1370

Surry

757-294-3285

Craig

540-864-6428

Lunenburg

434-676-2451

Sussex

434-246-3531

Culpeper

540-825-0682

Madison

540-948-3311

Tazewell

276-988-6556

Cumberland

804-492-4621

Mecklenburg

434-738-6141

Virginia Beach

757-426-6115

Dinwiddie

804-469-3726

Mecklenburg

434-584-0290

Virginia Beach

757-467-0603

Essex

804-443-3733

Middlesex

804-776-6886

Warren

540-635-4074

Fauquier

540-347-3172

Montgomery

540-382-8161

Washington

276-628-7135

Floyd

540-745-2021

Montgomery

540-961-4086

Washington

276-466-3987

Fluvanna

434-842-3411

Nansemond

757-934-2321

Westmoreland

804-493-8004

Franklin

540-483-9225

Nelson

434-263-8328

Wise-Dickenson

276-328-8274

Franklin

540-721-7047

Northampton

757-678-5158

Wythe

276-228-4042

Franklin

540-483-4708

Northumberland-Lancaster

804-580-4422

Your county Farm Bureau office is your first point of contact for information on services and programs included in Virginia Farm Bureau’s Membership Advantage.

Farm stewardship and green tomato cake, on Down Home Virginia

Watch this!

To view Down Home Virginia, visit VaFarmBureau.org.

VirginiaFarmBureau.com

Many Virginia farmers have been taking voluntary steps to protect the environment for years, and Roanoke County farmers are helping food ministries serve locally grown fare. Plus chef John Maxwell prepares a unique green tomato cake, and horticulturalist Mark Viette shows how to prune crapemyrtles. Those stories and more will be featured in the July edition of Down Home Virginia, Virginia Farm Bureau’s monthly cable and satellite television show.

The award-winning show airs nationwide at 6:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month on RFD-TV, as well as on 48 cable systems and three broadcast stations in Virginia. It’s also available online at VaFarmBureau.org.

Check local cable listings for the show times in your area, or visit VaFarmBureau.org for a list of participating stations.

Cultivate JULY 2011

31

Free Tickets— Compliments of Your Farm Team.

Get the Membership Advantage.

Farm Bureau Insurance is known for being on the spot when our members need us most. But we also contribute on a daily basis to the quality of life in communities across the commonwealth. Present this ad (or your Farm Bureau membership card) to any participating Virginia Minor League box office and receive two free tickets to a game during the month of August.

FarmBureauAdvantage.com LIMIT TWO TICKETS PER MEMBER PER DAY. Some restrictions may apply. Please contact the specific baseball club for more information. For additional coupons, please visit your local Farm Bureau office.

SALEM

PULASKI

NORFOLK

DANVILLE

POTOMAC

LYNCHBURG

BRISTOL

RICHMOND