Mississipi Farm Country September/October 2013

A Publication of Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation • MSFB.org

VOLUME 89 NO. 5

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

2 MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER2 MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY MAY/JUNE

BENEFITS OF FARM BUREAU MEMBERSHIP

www.msfb.org

Save 10% off industrial products. Visit at www.grainger.com

GRAINGER INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES DISCOUNTFEATURED BENEFIT

Farm Bureau is a general farm organizationserving farmers and other members through a widevariety of programs, public policies and economicservices. Take a moment to familiarize yourselfwith the benefits listed here. From scholarshipopportunities to hotel rooms, and home securitysystems, these benefits are designed to make yourlife a whole lot easier. For more information,contact your county Farm Bureau office or theMississippi Farm Bureau Federation state office at1.800.227.8244 ext. 4169, or call 601.977.4169, orvisit our Web site at www.msfb.org. Certain restrictions may apply to all benefits.

• ATV VALUES - Got Gear Motorsports of Ridgeland isoffering free installation of a winch (winch notincluded) with the purchase of any ATV. This is a$125 value. For more information, call Dedra Lukeat 1.800.227.8244, ext. 4169. You will need topresent your membership card.

• CHILD SAFETY SEAT PROGRAM – Members can pick uporder forms for $25 car seats and $15 booster seatsat their local county office or visit our Web site atwww.msfb.org

• CHOICE HOTELS - 20% off the published rack roomrate at any participating location of their brand hotellocations. This discount is based on availability atany Comfort Inn®, Comfort Suites®, Quality Inn®,Sleep Inn®, Clarion, Main Stay Suites®, EconoLodge®, and Rodeway Inn®.

• CIMARRON MORTGAGE - Save $150 off closing costswhen you finance your home mortgage throughCimarron Mortgage Company, a Mississippi-basednational lender. *This credit must be requested prior to closing.

• CLEAR VALUE HEARING - Members can receive afree hearing test, free annual retests, freeprogramming and maintenance, free case ofbatteries, and 25% off Starkey digital hearinginstruments. For more information, please call theMember Call Center at 1.888.497.7447 or visit theirweb site at www.clearvaluehearing.com to locate aprovider in your area.

• DELL COMPUTERS - Dell’s Member Purchase Programallows Mississippi Farm Bureau Federationmembers to receive member-only pricing on all

personal PCs from Dell, including:- Up to 30% OFF list prices for select configurations - Members receive additional savings on select*electronics and accessories! *Offer does not apply to the following productscategories: Printers and Ink, Gaming, Batteries andPower. Additional savings apply to select other offers.

• FORD DISCOUNT - Ford Motor Company is pleased tooffer $500 Bonus Cash savings off vehicle MSRPtoward the purchase or lease of any eligible2012/2013/2014 Ford or Lincoln vehicle. With thisvaluable offer, you can enjoy savings on thevehicle of your choice from our exciting newlineup of hard-working and technologically-advanced cars and trucks — including the FordF-150 with its impressive power, fuel efficiencyand best-in-class trailer towing capacity. Takeadvantage of this special $500 offer today byvisiting www.fordspecialoffer.com/farmbureau/ms.

• GRAINGER INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY - Save 10% off industrialproducts. www.grainger.com

• HOME SECURITY - Southern Security Services offersan ADT Home Security System installed at nocharge (36-month monitoring contract required).

• HUGHESNET HIGH SPEED INTERNET - Farm Bureaumembers receive a $99 instant credit when theysign up for HughesNet Internet Service. Discount is available to new subscribers only.

• IDENTITY THEFT CREDIT RESTORATION SERVICES - Identitytheft occurs when a thief uses an individual'spersonal identification information, such as a socialsecurity number, an address, and/or credit and debitcard numbers without permission with the intent ofcommitting fraud or other crimes. That's why Mis-sissippi Farm Bureau Federation has included as apart of your membership this Identity Theft CreditRestoration Service. All eligible* members of thehousehold are covered and best of all - It's Free!*MFBF member, spouse and children under the age of 19, or24 if a full-time student. Must have been a member for at least60 days. Program is not identity theft protection, an insuranceproduct, or credit monitoring.

• MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM - This discounted systemoffered by Southern Security Systems providestwo-way communications in case of an emergency in the home. A pendant is worn by the memberand, if an emergency arises, all the member

needs to do is press the button and the monitoringservice will speak with the member through thetwo-way communications system. This system re-quires no equipment purchase, no minimumlength contract, and no cancellation fees. For moreinformation, call 1.800.960.9119 or 601.939.9413.

• MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY MAGAZINE – The officialpublication of Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation.It is published bimonthly and spotlights oneparticular area of agriculture each issue. It alsocontains information on agricultural issues and FarmBureau programs.

• MOSSY OAK – MFBF and Mossy Oak have teamedup to offer our members a 10% discount throughthe Mossy Oak online store. This discount does notapply to promotional or sale items.

• PHARMACY DISCOUNT- United Networks of America isoffering MS Farm Bureau members up to 75% offtheir prescriptions at over 614 participatinglocations. Please contact your local county FarmBureau office to receive your free Rx discount cardand start saving.

• RENTAL CAR – Various discounts through HertzAlamo, Avis, Enterprise, and National.

• SCHOLARSHIPS - Mississippi Farm Bureau Federationoffers several scholarships to young people interestedin furthering their education in agriculture. Thesescholarships are offered through the Young Farmers& Ranchers Program and the Women’s Program. Formore information, contact Kirsten Johnson at601.573.4277 or E-mail: [email protected] or ClaraBilbo at 601.977.4245 or E-mail: [email protected]

• THEFT REWARD PROGRAM - Members can offer a $500reward for information leading to the arrest andconviction of anyone committing theft, arson orvandalism against their property.

• WYNDHAM HOTELS - Receive an additional 20% offthe "Best Available Rate" at participating locations.Advanced reservations are required. Offer is subjectto availability at participating locations, and someblackout dates may apply. Wyndham Hotel Group,Inc. is one of the world’s largest lodgingcompanies under the Baymont Inn®, Days Inn®,Hawthorn Suites®, Howard Johnson®, Knights Inn®,Ramada®, Super 8®, Travelodge®, Wyndhamhotels and resorts, and Wingate Inn® brands.


www.msfb.org

Save 10% off industrial products. Visit at www.grainger.com

GRAINGER INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES DISCOUNTFEATURED BENEFIT

Farm Bureau is a general farm organizationserving farmers and other members through a widevariety of programs, public policies and economicservices. Take a moment to familiarize yourselfwith the benefits listed here. From scholarshipopportunities to hotel rooms, and home securitysystems, these benefits are designed to make yourlife a whole lot easier. For more information,contact your county Farm Bureau office or theMississippi Farm Bureau Federation state office at1.800.227.8244 ext. 4169, or call 601.977.4169, orvisit our Web site at www.msfb.org. Certain restrictions may apply to all benefits.

• ATV VALUES - Got Gear Motorsports of Ridgeland isoffering free installation of a winch (winch notincluded) with the purchase of any ATV. This is a$125 value. For more information, call Dedra Lukeat 1.800.227.8244, ext. 4169. You will need topresent your membership card.

• CHILD SAFETY SEAT PROGRAM – Members can pick uporder forms for $25 car seats and $15 booster seatsat their local county office or visit our Web site atwww.msfb.org

• CHOICE HOTELS - 20% off the published rack roomrate at any participating location of their brand hotellocations. This discount is based on availability atany Comfort Inn®, Comfort Suites®, Quality Inn®,Sleep Inn®, Clarion, Main Stay Suites®, EconoLodge®, and Rodeway Inn®.

• CIMARRON MORTGAGE - Save $150 off closing costswhen you finance your home mortgage throughCimarron Mortgage Company, a Mississippi-basednational lender. *This credit must be requested prior to closing.

• CLEAR VALUE HEARING - Members can receive afree hearing test, free annual retests, freeprogramming and maintenance, free case ofbatteries, and 25% off Starkey digital hearinginstruments. For more information, please call theMember Call Center at 1.888.497.7447 or visit theirweb site at www.clearvaluehearing.com to locate aprovider in your area.

• DELL COMPUTERS - Dell’s Member Purchase Programallows Mississippi Farm Bureau Federationmembers to receive member-only pricing on all

personal PCs from Dell, including:- Up to 30% OFF list prices for select configurations - Members receive additional savings on select*electronics and accessories! *Offer does not apply to the following productscategories: Printers and Ink, Gaming, Batteries andPower. Additional savings apply to select other offers.

• FORD DISCOUNT - Ford Motor Company is pleased tooffer $500 Bonus Cash savings off vehicle MSRPtoward the purchase or lease of any eligible2012/2013/2014 Ford or Lincoln vehicle. With thisvaluable offer, you can enjoy savings on thevehicle of your choice from our exciting newlineup of hard-working and technologically-advanced cars and trucks — including the FordF-150 with its impressive power, fuel efficiencyand best-in-class trailer towing capacity. Takeadvantage of this special $500 offer today byvisiting www.fordspecialoffer.com/farmbureau/ms.



• HUGHESNET HIGH SPEED INTERNET - Farm Bureaumembers receive a $99 instant credit when theysign up for HughesNet Internet Service. Discount is available to new subscribers only.

• IDENTITY THEFT CREDIT RESTORATION SERVICES - Identitytheft occurs when a thief uses an individual'spersonal identification information, such as a socialsecurity number, an address, and/or credit and debitcard numbers without permission with the intent ofcommitting fraud or other crimes. That's why Mis-sissippi Farm Bureau Federation has included as apart of your membership this Identity Theft CreditRestoration Service. All eligible* members of thehousehold are covered and best of all - It's Free!*MFBF member, spouse and children under the age of 19, or24 if a full-time student. Must have been a member for at least60 days. Program is not identity theft protection, an insuranceproduct, or credit monitoring.

• MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM - This discounted systemoffered by Southern Security Systems providestwo-way communications in case of an emergency in the home. A pendant is worn by the memberand, if an emergency arises, all the member

needs to do is press the button and the monitoringservice will speak with the member through thetwo-way communications system. This system re-quires no equipment purchase, no minimumlength contract, and no cancellation fees. For moreinformation, call 1.800.960.9119 or 601.939.9413.

• MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY MAGAZINE – The officialpublication of Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation.It is published bimonthly and spotlights oneparticular area of agriculture each issue. It alsocontains information on agricultural issues and FarmBureau programs.

• MOSSY OAK – MFBF and Mossy Oak have teamedup to offer our members a 10% discount throughthe Mossy Oak online store. This discount does notapply to promotional or sale items.

• PHARMACY DISCOUNT- United Networks of America isoffering MS Farm Bureau members up to 75% offtheir prescriptions at over 614 participatinglocations. Please contact your local county FarmBureau office to receive your free Rx discount cardand start saving.


• SCHOLARSHIPS - Mississippi Farm Bureau Federationoffers several scholarships to young people interestedin furthering their education in agriculture. Thesescholarships are offered through the Young Farmers& Ranchers Program and the Women’s Program. Formore information, contact Kirsten Johnson at601.573.4277 or E-mail: [email protected] or ClaraBilbo at 601.977.4245 or E-mail: [email protected]


• WYNDHAM HOTELS - Receive an additional 20% offthe "Best Available Rate" at participating locations.Advanced reservations are required. Offer is subjectto availability at participating locations, and someblackout dates may apply. Wyndham Hotel Group,Inc. is one of the world’s largest lodgingcompanies under the Baymont Inn®, Days Inn®,Hawthorn Suites®, Howard Johnson®, Knights Inn®,Ramada®, Super 8®, Travelodge®, Wyndhamhotels and resorts, and Wingate Inn® brands.


www.msfb.org

FEATURED BENEFIT

Farm Bureau is a general farm organizationserving farmers and other members through a widevariety of programs, public policies and economicservices. Take a moment to familiarize yourselfwith the benefits listed here. From scholarshipopportunities to hotel rooms, and home securitysystems, these benefits are designed to make yourlife a whole lot easier. For more information,contact your county Farm Bureau office or theMississippi Farm Bureau Federation state officeat 1.800.227.8244 ext. 4169, or call 601.977.4169,or visit our website at www.msfb.org. Certainrestrictions may apply to all benefits.

• ATV VALUES - Got Gear Motorsports of Ridgelandoffers free installation of a winch (winch notincluded) with the purchase of any ATV. This is a$125 value. Must present membership card.

• BOOT DISCOUNT - Boot Country in Hattiesburg offersmembers 10% off on all merchandise in the storeand online. You must show proof of membership atthe time of purchase.

• CHILD SAFETY SEAT PROGRAM – Members can pick uporder forms for $25 car seats and $15 booster seatsat their local county office or visit www.msfb.org.

• CHOICE HOTELS - Save 20% off the published rackroom rate at any participating location of theirbrand hotels. This discount is based on availabilityat any Comfort Inn®, Comfort Suites®, Quality Inn®,Sleep Inn®, Clarion, Main Stay Suites®, EconoLodge®, and Rodeway Inn®.

• CIMARRON MORTGAGE - Save $150 off closing costswhen you finance your home mortgage throughCimarron Mortgage Company, a Mississippi-basednational lender. *This credit must be requested priorto closing.

• CLEAR VALUE HEARING - Members can receive a freehearing test, free annual retests, free programmingand maintenance, free case of batteries, and 25%off Starkey digital hearing instruments. For moreinformation, please call the Member Call Center at1.888.497.7447 or visit their website at www.clearvaluehearing.com to locate a provider in your area.

• DELL COMPUTERS - Dell’s Member Purchase Programallows members to receive member-only pricingon all personal PCs from Dell, including:- Up to 30% OFF list prices for select configurations

- Members receive additional savings on select* electronics and accessories!

*Offer does not apply to the following productscategories: Printers and Ink, Gaming, Batteries andPower. Additional savings apply to select other offers.

• ENTERTAINMENT DISCOUNTS– Gulf Islands Waterparkin Gulfport offers a Regular Admission Full DayPass for only $21.99. That’s $8 off the regular price.You must order your tickets online and enter theFarm Bureau code. Mississippi Ag Museum offers$1 off Regular Admission. Must show a validmembership card. Mississippi Children’s Museumoffers members a $3 discount on admission everyFriday. Must present a valid membership card atthe ticket window to receive the discount. TupeloBuffalo Park offers a $9 admission. Must showvalid membership card when purchasing tickets.

• FORD DISCOUNT - Ford Motor Company is pleased tooffer $500 Bonus Cash savings off vehicleMSRP toward the purchase or lease of any eligible2012/2013/2014 Ford or Lincoln vehicle. Takeadvantage of this special $500 offer today byvisiting www.fordspecialoffer.com/farmbureau/ms.



• HUGHESNET HIGH SPEED INTERNET - Members receive a$99 instant credit when they sign up for HughesNetInternet Service. Discount is available to new subscribers only.

• IDENTITY THEFT CREDIT RESTORATION SERVICES - Identity theftoccurs when a thief uses an individual's personalidentification information, such as a social securitynumber, an address, and/or credit and debit cardnumbers without permission with the intent ofcommitting fraud or other crimes. That's whyFarm Bureau has included this Identity Theft CreditRestoration Service as a part of your membership.All eligible* members of the household are coveredand best of all - It's Free!*MFBF member, spouse and children under the age of19, or 24 if a full-time student. Must have been a mem-ber for at least 60 days. Program is not identity theftprotection, an insurance product, or credit monitoring.

• MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM - This discounted systemoffered by Southern Security Systems provides

two-way communications in case of an emergencyin the home. A pendant is worn by the member and,if an emergency arises, all the member needs to dois press the button and the monitoring service willspeak with the member through the two-waycommunications system. This system requires noequipment purchase, no minimum length contract,and no cancellation fees. For more information,call 1.800.960.9119 or 601.939.9413.

• MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY MAGAZINE – The officialpublication of Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation.It is published bimonthly and spotlights oneparticular area of agriculture each issue. It alsocontains information on agricultural issues andFarm Bureau programs.

• MOSSY OAK – Members receive a 10% discountthrough the Mossy Oak online store. This discountdoes not apply to promotional or sale items.

• PHARMACY DISCOUNT- United Networks of Americaoffers members up to 75% off their prescriptions atover 614 participating locations. Please contactyour local county Farm Bureau office to receiveyour free Rx discount card and start saving.


• SCHOLARSHIPS - Several scholarships are availableto young people interested in furthering theireducation in agriculture. These scholarships areoffered through the Young Farmers & RanchersProgram and the Women’s Program. For moreinformation, contact Kirsten Johnson at601.573.4277 or email: [email protected] or ClaraBilbo at 601.977.4245 or email: [email protected].


• WYNDHAM HOTELS - Receive an additional 20% off the"Best Available Rate" at participating locations.Advanced reservations are required. Offer is subjectto availability at participating locations, and someblackout dates may apply. Wyndham Hotel Group,Inc. is one of the world’s largest lodging companiesunder the Baymont Inn®, Days Inn®, HawthornSuites®, Howard Johnson®, Knights Inn®, Ramada®,Super 8®, Travelodge®, Wyndham hotels andresorts, and Wingate Inn® brands.

We’re partnering with Mississippi Farm Bureau to offer Home Teammembers a special 10% discount on SHARED Data+ plans. Share dataamong up to 10 devices and get unlimited nationwide talk and text, allfor one low price. Buy only the amount of data you need, with nosurprise overage charges. See store for details.

C SPIRE WIRELESS DISCOUNT

®

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY 3

I’m Coley Bailey Jr., and I farm cotton near Coffeeville in Yalobusha County. I’ve been a Farm Bureau member since 1994 and a volunteer leader for almost 20 years. I couldn’t do my job without Farm Bureau.

Farm Bureau is Mississippi’s largest general farm or-ganization, standing nearly 200,000 members strong. We have offices in all 82 counties. Established by a handful of farmers almost a century ago, Farm Bureau continues to honor the basic mission of those founding men and women, which is to create an environment where farmers, ranchers and other members can have a better life and make a better living.

I believe deeply in Farm Bureau, and I’m proud of all that it has accomplished through the years. Here are two areas where we excel:

• Policy Development and Implementation. Our grassroots policy development and implementation process monitors issues of interest to our members in the Legislature and U.S. Congress. In 2011, following a strong and sustained effort on the part of Farm Bureau, voters passed Initiative 31 to strengthen Mississippi’s private property laws. If you’d like to get involved with issues that matter, see the article about our Political Issue Committee (PIC) on page 7.

• Farm Families of Mississippi. I know you don’t ever want to depend on another country for your food. A strong domestic agriculture is critical to a strong national security. Each year, the Farm Families of Mississippi Ag Promotion Campaign takes agriculture’s message to media outlets

across the state. This successful campaign, spearheaded by Farm Bureau, is changing perceptions and strengthening our ag industry so that we will always have a dependable food supply right here at home. If you’d like to learn more, visit www.farmfamilies.org or call (601) 977-4154.

When you join Farm Bureau, you gain access to these programs and more. If you are unfamiliar with our member benefits package, see the adjoining page and page 20 or visit our website at www.msfb.org.

Thanks for your interest in Farm Bureau. Tell your friends and neighbors to join. Together, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of our members and all Mississippians.

Farm Bureau: Making a Differencein Your Life

Coley Bailey

FARM BUREAU

4 MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

Presenting the exclusive Farm Bureau Wireless Discount

Now Get the Home Field Advantage

2-year agreement required. All trademarks and service marksare the property of their respective owners. ©2013 C Spire. All rights reserved.

Call 1.855.CSPIRE4 for details or visit cspire.com/msfb

We’re partnering with Mississippi Farm Bureau to o� er Home Team members a special 10% discount on SHARED Data+ plans. Share data among up to 10 devices and get unlimited nationwide talk and text, all for one low price. Buy only the amount of data you need, with no surprise overage charges.

Because Mississippi is where we call home, no one knows how to give you better coverage where you live and work.


CONTENTS

Features

“Our mission is to create an environment in which Mississippi farmers, ranchers, and Farm Bureau members can have a better life and make a better living.”

Departments 6 President’s Message 8 Commodity Update: Corn 9 Commodity Update: Cotton 20 Member Benefits Spotlight 28 Counsel’s Corner

About the coverYalobusha County cotton grower Coley Bailey Jr. has been a Farm Bureau member since 1994 and a Farm Bureau volunteer leader for almost 20 years. He says he couldn’t do his job without Farm Bureau. If you are unfamiliar with all that Farm Bureau offers its members, see pages 2 and 3 and page 20 inside this issue.

3 Making a DifferenceMississippi Farm Bureau Federation, established by a handful of farmers nearly a century ago, today stands almost 200,000 members strong. We continue to honor the basic mission of those founding men and women. Come with us as we learn more.

24 Solve the MysteryOur mystery town in Tate County takes its name from a nearby river. In 1942, the town and its 700 residents moved one mile south of the original “Old Town” site. Read the clues and make your guess.

27 Farm Bureau EventsFarm Bureau volunteer leaders and staff have been busy this summer. See the photos on this page and scattered throughout the magazine. County Farm Bureau annual meetings are listed on page 32.

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRYVolume 89 Number 5

September/October 2013

Mississippi Farm Country(ISSN 1529-9600) magazine is

published bimonthly by theMississippi Farm Bureau® Federation.

Farm Bureau members receive this publication as part of their membership benefit. Periodicals postage is paid at

Jackson, MS and at additional mailing offices.

Postmaster: Send address changes toP. O. Box 1972, Jackson, MS 39215

EDITORIAL and BUSINESS OFFICES6311 Ridgewood Road Jackson, MS 39211

601-977-4153

EDITOR - Glynda Phillips

ADVERTISINGAngela Thompson

1-800-227-8244 ext. 4242

FARM BUREAU OFFICERSPresident – Randy Knight

Vice President – Donald GantVice President – Ted Kendall

Vice President – Reggie MageeTreasurer – Billy Davis

Corporate Secretary – Ilene Sumrall

FARM BUREAU DIRECTORSCarla Taylor, Booneville Lowell Hinton, Corinth

Ronnie Jones, Holly SpringsChris Lively, Clarksdale

Randle Wright, VardamanKelcey Shields, Mantachie

Mike Langley, HoustonKenneth King, Ackerman

Wanda Hill, IsolaJimmy Whitaker, Satartia

Oliver Limerick, ShuqualakVander Walley, Waynesboro

David M. Boyd, SandhillDavid C. Barton, Raymond

Jeff Mullins, MeadvilleMike McCormick, Union Church

Lyle Hubbard, Mt. OliveLarry Jefcoat, Soso

J. B. Brown, PerkinstonLouis J. Breaux IV, Kiln

Betty Mills, WinonaJon Koehler Bibb, Tunica

HONORARY VICE PRESIDENTLouis J. Breaux III

Material in this publication is based on what the editor believes to be reliable information. Neither Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation nor those individuals or organizations contributing to the MFBF publication assume any liability for errors that might go undetected in the publication — this includes statements in articles or advertisements that could lead to erroneous personal or business management decisions.

FARM BUREAU®, FB® and all Farm Bureau logos used in this magazine are registered service marks owned by the American Farm Bureau Federation. They may not be used in any commercial manner without the prior written consent of the American Farm Bureau Federation.

Design: Coopwood Communications, Inc.

Presenting the exclusive Farm Bureau Wireless Discount

Now Get the Home Field Advantage

2-year agreement required. All trademarks and service marksare the property of their respective owners. ©2013 C Spire. All rights reserved.

Call 1.855.CSPIRE4 for details or visit cspire.com/msfb

We’re partnering with Mississippi Farm Bureau to o� er Home Team members a special 10% discount on SHARED Data+ plans. Share data among up to 10 devices and get unlimited nationwide talk and text, all for one low price. Buy only the amount of data you need, with no surprise overage charges.

Because Mississippi is where we call home, no one knows how to give you better coverage where you live and work.


PRESIdENT’S MESSAgERandy Knight, President

Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation

A Tough DecisionMy family recently decided to close our Pelahatchie dairy. It

was a tough decision to make. Dairying has been a way of life for the Knight family since 1932, when my grandfather first opened the dairy, back when the cows were milked by hand. My father, Lee, began operating it in the 1950s, and I came on board as soon as I was old enough to help.

Through the years, the dairy has meant a lot to all of us, but it has been my father’s pride and joy – with an emphasis on joy. But with his age (he is 80), my responsibilities as Farm Bureau presi-dent and all of the challenges within the dairy industry, we decided to shift our focus to other aspects of our farm. In addition to the dairy, we have beef cattle, stocker calves, timber and horses.

This is an emotional time for my family, and we covet your thoughts and prayers. And please remember all of the other Missis-sippi dairy farmers across the state making similar decisions right now. In June 2013, Mississippi had only 104 Grade A dairies and two dairy processing facilities remaining.

Catfish IndustryOur farm-raised catfish industry is experiencing similar change.

From about 116,000 water acres of catfish ponds here in Mis-sissippi in 2001, we are presently down to 48,600 water acres, primarily in the Delta and eastern counties. A number of factors have contributed to this, but one of the biggest reasons is foreign competition.

People are purchasing the cheaper imported fish, many times having no idea how or where the fish were grown, while we know without a doubt that U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish are raised in clean freshwater ponds and fed a quality high-protein feed. In my opinion, there really is no choice. Farm-raised catfish wins, hands down.

Keep our catfish growers in your prayers, too.

Supportive DelegationMississippi Farm Bureau Federation volunteer leaders and staff

continue to work with Farm Bill legislation as the process drags on for far longer than we anticipated. The Senate approved its version of the bill in early June, and the House finally passed a farm-only version in early July. The two chambers will now conference and come up with a final version, which will hopefully be approved by the Sept. 30 deadline. We will strive to see that this most important

piece of legislation is passed in a timely manner, and I will keep you updated on our progress.

In our work with the Farm Bill, we have enjoyed excellent support in both the Senate and House from members of our con-gressional delegation, including Sen. Thad Cochran, Sen. Roger Wicker, Congressman Gregg Harper, Congressman Alan Nunnelee and Congressman Steven Palazzo. I encourage you to thank these men when you get a chance. We are blessed to have them repre-senting the interests of Mississippi agriculture in the halls of the U.S. Congress.

Harvest TimeI can’t believe September is already here, and what a strange

year it has been. Unusually wet and cool weather early in the year resulted in dramatic planting delays for most crops across the state and nation. Harvest efforts for many of these crops could continue into late fall.

When you are in the midst of harvesting, always a very stress-ful time of year, please remember to slow down and use caution. Farming can be one of the most dangerous occupations on earth. Be careful out there, and have a blessed and bountiful harvest season.


PAPERLESS BILLINGNOW AVAILABLE!

In an effort to reduce your mail volume, paperless billing is now available for auto and homeowner’s insurancepremiums. Paperless billing is an environmentally-friendly solution that also decreases the amount of mail to sortthrough. Besides, your mailbox could probably use a break.

Going paperless is simple:• Log on to www.msfbins.com

• Click on the Paperless Billing icon g

*Mississippi Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Co. *Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Co., Jackson, MS MFBPPRLS5412

Paperless Billing

Donate to PICBy Samantha Cawthorn NewmanMFBF Public Policy director

When you donate to the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Balloted Measure Politi-cal Issue Committee (PIC), you assure that Farm Bureau’s voice will be heard on mat-ters of concern to members. PIC funds are used to work toward the passage or defeat of the following:

• Issues voted on by the state’s registered voters

• Measures voted on by members of the state Legislature

• National ballot issues and national is-sues in Washington, D.C.

In recent years, PIC funds made it pos-sible for Farm Bureau to conduct a very successful eminent domain reform cam-

paign. PIC funds have also helped us make a difference in these areas:

• Farm Bill• Country of Origin Labeling• Disaster Relief• Tort Reform• Right to Farm • Estate Taxes• Health Care

PIC funds cannot be contributed to candi-dates for political office.

Funds for the Political Issue Committee are collected through a voluntary contribu-tion on annual county Farm Bureau dues statements. Please consider donating to PIC, even if it’s just a dollar. Working together, through PIC, we can truly make a difference.

For more information about PIC, contact the Public Policy Department at (601) 977-4226.

You can now pay your annual Farm Bureau membership dues and PIC contributions through electronic funds transfer. Sim-ply sign up for the service, and these funds will be automatically drafted from your bank account each year.

For more information, visit our website at www.msfb.org or contact a county Farm Bureau office to obtain a form.

New Way to Pay Farm Bureau Dues


COMMOdITY UPdATE: CORN

Larry Killebrew - MFBF Corn, Wheat and Feed grains Advisory Committee ChairBritton Hatcher - MFBF Commodity Coordinator for Corn, Wheat and Feed grains

Corn is an Important Grain in AmericaFrom the cars we drive to the foods we eat, corn is an inte-

gral grain in American life. It’s a basic food plant and by far one of the world’s most versatile grains. It’s a crop that continues to be grown in more and more acreage here in Mississippi, and this expansion can be realized by going back to 2005, when approxi-mately 380,000 acres were planted in our state. In 2007, farmers planted roughly 930,000 acres. This year, planting intentions were over 1 million acres.

However, as luck would have it this year, those acres were never realized due to the wet spring we had. Frequent rains kept farmers out of the fields and pushed plantings further and further behind to a point where they began to shift acres they intended to plant in corn into other crops such as cotton and beans.

Given the significant challenges this spring, corn didn’t take off as it has in years past; however, that said, after the crop was planted, it really began to take shape, and with harvest looming, it will be interesting to see what sort of yields this crop has in store, given all of the hurdles it’s had to overcome.

Dr. Erick Larson, Mississippi State University Extension Grain Crops Specialist, said this crop is a later crop than normal and possibly two to three weeks behind last year’s crop. Weather conditions for last year’s crop, on the other hand, were quite the opposite. As you may remember, last year provided farmers with a warm, dry spring, allowing them to enter the fields much earlier.

On a national level, this growing season did not get off to a good start either. Hindered by cold, wet weather, growers were slow getting the crops in the ground, making it the slowest planting season since 1984. May weather conditions improved significantly, allowing corn growers to make great advances in planting. This break in the weather gave farmers an oppor-tunity to not only overcome the dismal spring but also plant one of America’s largest corn crops on record at 97.4 million acres. This is up slightly from 2012, which realized 97.1 million planted acres, according to the acreage report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statis-tics Service (NASS). This is the highest amount of corn acreage since 1936, when 102 million acres were planted, and it also marks the fifth year in a row of corn acreage increases in the United States.

By far, the U.S. is the largest producer of corn in the world, growing approximately 32 percent of the world’s corn crop. Corn is grown by over 400,000 U.S. farms, and we export about 20 percent of the corn produced by U.S. farmers. Corn is typically grown for either grain or silage production. Corn

grown for grain production accounts for almost one-quarter of the harvested crop acreage in this country, and corn grown for silage accounts for about two percent of the total harvested cropland.

According to the National Corn Growers Association, each American consumes roughly 25 pounds of corn annually. How-ever, that said, about 80 percent of all the corn we grow here in the U.S. is consumed by domestic and overseas livestock, fish and poultry production. The crop is fed as ground grain, silage, and high-moisture and high-oil corn, while only about 12 percent of the U.S. corn crop ends up in foods that are either consumed directly (e.g. corn chips) or indirectly (e.g. high-fructose corn syrup).

The end products in which corn is found are often far re-moved from the farmer’s field. From foods, beverages, snacks and livestock feed to industrial uses in adhesives, plastics, pharmaceuticals, textiles and fuel, the processing starts with the corn. As stated before, it’s a very useful grain and one that touches our lives every day in one way or another.

As the world’s population continues to grow, so will the demands for food and fuel. These demands will only continue to challenge farmers to produce more corn on less land with fewer resources.

Sources: National Corn Growers Association 2013 Report. N.p., 11 Feb. 2013. Web. <http://www.ncga.com/upload/files/documents/pdf/WOC%202013.pdf>.U.S. USDA. Economic Research Service. Corn: Trade. N.p. Web. <http://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/crops/corn/trade.aspx#.UWbCQ7UX-w5>. U.S. EPA, AG 101, Major Crops Grown in the U.S.http://www.epa.gov/oecaagct/ag101/cropmajor.htmlU.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. CORN ACREAGE UP FOR FIFTH STRAIGHT YEAR http://www.nass.usda.gov/Newsroom/2013/06_28_2013.asp

Hatcher Killebrew


COMMOdITY UPdATE: COTTON

Global Opportunities Remain StrongOver the last 15 or 20 years, the cotton industry as a

whole has experienced change in a number of areas. If you just look at the production systems of the industry alone, you recognize so many technological advancements.

Few people ever dreamed one day growers could plant cotton that would have built-in defenses to the bollworm and budworm or herbicide resistance to allow for more efficient weed control – all in the seed. This system has eliminated so many passes over the field with equipment and labor, all while increasing stewardship of the environment by reducing the amount of pesticides applied to the growing area.

Likewise, I think few growers imagined being able to buy a cotton picker that can harvest and build a module or round bale on the back of the picker, eliminating the need for numerous pieces of equipment and added labor in the field during harvest.

Just as these changes in production have occurred, so have changes occurred in world cotton trade. According to the USDA Economic Research Service, world cotton consump-tion has realized unprecedented growth since the start of the 21st century. Much of the gain in world mill consumption of cotton in recent years has occurred in China. China’s invest-ment in spinning capacity has been substantial and enabled world cotton consumption to grow at extraordinary rates, even as mill consumption in former major textile centers declined.

This shift has had important ramifications for U.S. cotton production. Exports have come to play a more prominent role in the world cotton economy and, especially, in the United States. During the 1990s, U.S. domestic mill use accounted for about 60 percent of the U.S. crop. Now, exports account for more than 80 percent of the U.S. crop, and imports ac-

count for 20 to 40 percent of China’s consumption. As we all know, China and India now make up one-third

of the world’s population. Particularly, China’s rapidly grow-ing middle class has been the driving factor in this whole equation.

As China’s population continues to grow, several policy matters will have to be addressed. The Chinese government will have to decide whether or not production priorities shall be focused solely on feeding their population. In addition, as this population growth occurs, cropland will be taken out of production at the same time due to urban sprawl and for fur-ther industrial development. Therefore, food and fiber supply may become much more of a domestic policy issue for the Chinese than ever before, potentially creating a larger market for U.S. cotton.

We feel, with these policy issues facing countries like China and India, U.S. cotton will stand to gain greater market opportunities and be poised to do so.

Rob Farmer – MFBF Cotton Advisory Committee ChairJustin Ferguson – MFBF Commodity Coordinator for Cotton

Farmer Ferguson

Farm Bureau Day at the State FairJoin us at the Mississippi State Fair

in Jackson on Oct. 8 for “Farm Bureau Day at the Fair.” Farm Bureau will be distributing educational material about agriculture and Farm Bureau all day at a booth near the petting zoo and pig races.

Discount admission and parking tickets are available at your county Farm Bureau office – $2 off each admission ticket and $2 off parking. Tickets will be available at any county Farm Bureau office after Sept. 16.

The Mississippi State Fair runs from Oct. 2 - 13, and these discounted tickets are good for the entire run. So pick a day and have a great time using your Farm Bureau discount!


By Glynda Phillips

“ I’ve always stressed to my family the importance of making sure that their voices are heard in the policy development process.”


A Membership in Farm Bureau is Part of My Job

Chickasaw County row crop farmer Jan Hill has been a member of Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) since the mid-1970s and an active volunteer leader since the 1990s. He considers his Farm Bureau membership to be an important part of his job.

“I’ve always stressed to my family the importance of making sure that their voices are heard in the policy development pro-cess,” he said. “Farm Bureau has a strong and effective grassroots policy develop-ment and implementation process, so when Farm Bureau has asked, I’ve always tried to do what I could do to help. I make the time.”

Jan says he doesn’t think farmers today could do their jobs without Farm Bureau.

“Now, with political and environmental issues like they are, it is just too complicat-ed to farm without a strong group helping us with the different issues that affect our lives and livelihood,” he said. “We also need to be able to get our message out, and Farm Bureau helps with that, too, through programs like Farm Families of Mississippi and Ag in the Classroom. It is so important that we teach people to appreciate agricul-ture.”

Jan says Farm Bureau has opened a lot of doors for him through the years, con-necting him with people who have helped him with what he does on his farm. He says he’s also made many close friendships. He encourages all Mississippi farmers, especially young farmers, to become active members.

“Farm Bureau is such an important part of our family farming operation here in the hills of Chickasaw County,” he said. “I can’t imagine trying to do what I do each year without it.”

Jan grows soybeans, corn and cotton on his farm near Woodland. He also helps with his son Jason’s large soybean operation. Since this issue of our Ag Mag children’s newsletter (located in the center of the magazine) focuses on corn, we will take a look at Jan’s corn operation.

Growing CornThis year presented corn growers in

most areas of the state with weather chal-lenges. In the past, Jan has planted twice the number of acres of corn he planted in 2013, but with the weather so rainy and cool for so long, he struggled to get just 300 acres in the ground. It was also planted later than the normal planting date, which is early March.

“We finished in late April,” he said. “But most of the corn looks real good.”

Jan’s corn goes to a private hog opera-tion in Maben and to a grain elevator.

“Most of the corn grown in Mississippi is sold to the poultry industry, even if it goes through an elevator first. Prestage Farms also uses Mississippi corn to feed hogs,” he said. “Years ago, cattle consumed our state’s corn crop, but that isn’t the case today.”

Jan says one of the biggest issues in the corn industry today is aflatoxin, which is caused by mold fungi. If a crop tests positive for too much aflatoxin, it is turned away by grain elevators to keep it out of the food chain. Hot, dry growing conditions and humidity in the South contribute to af-latoxin, which costs U.S. growers millions of dollars each year.

“A lot of our checkoff funds go into aflatoxin research,” Jan said. “We have looked at different areas that can help prevent this problem, including better,

stronger corn varieties, insect control, cultural practices and biological controls. We have some products on the market that show promise, but they don’t get us where we need to be. But I think we will solve the problem eventually… and it tends to be a Southern problem.”

Weed control is another issue for corn growers.

“That’s always a problem,” he said. “But we have come a long way with weed control.”

Labor is a third challenge.“We can find people willing to work,

but young people today don’t have farming experience,” Jan said. “People have grown so far away from farming that they don’t know what to do on a farm, and that makes it difficult.”

Volunteer LeaderIn his volunteer work with Farm Bu-

reau, Jan has served as a county president and a state director. He is a past chair of the MFBF Corn Advisory Committee and a past member of the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Corn Advisory Com-mittee. He has served on both the MFBF and AFBF Wheat Advisory committees.

Jan’s son, Jason, just stepped down from a term as chair of the MFBF Young Farmers & Ranchers State Committee. Jan’s wife, Judy, and Jason’s wife, Kelley, are involved with the county Farm Bureau women’s committee.

Jan also sits on the Mississippi Land Bank Board of Directors and the Missis-sippi Corn Promotion Board. He has been cited by our state’s agricultural industry for his work in production agriculture.

M I S S I S S I P P I FA R M E R S P O T L I G H T


F

U.S. Freshwater Prawns

Freshwater prawns are a healthy, deli-cious food grown right here in Missis-sippi. Each year, Dolores and Steve Fratesi produce about 14 acres of prawns on their Lauren Farms in Leland. Dolores says they have mastered a “full circle” in the produc-tion process: from hatching, stocking and feeding to harvesting and marketing.

“One of the beauties of growing freshwater prawns is the probiotic or feed conversion aspect,” Dolores said. “Prawns eat the natural productivity of ponds, stimulated by an organic fertilization prac-tice that uses such commercially available products as corn gluten pellets, range cubes and alfalfa pellets. We only feed one to one and one-half tons of feed per acre over the entire growing season. No chemicals are used. Another plus is that freshwater prawns are a non-invasive species.”

The Fratesis were thrilled when U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish and U.S. Freshwater Prawns received the Monterey Bay Aquar-ium’s “Best Choice” designation. Environ-

By Glynda Phillips


mentally conscious, the group appreciates the all-natural, best-management practices aspect of U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish and U.S. Freshwater Prawn production.

Marketing PrawnsSteve and Dolores sell fresh and indi-

vidually quick-frozen freshwater prawns in a variety of sizes, with an emphasis on the jumbo size. They take orders over the phone and have an Internet business. They also sell at farmers markets across the state, including the Mississippi Farmers Market in Jackson and the Livingston Farmers Market in Madison. Fresh prawns are sold “pond-bank” style annually on the farm on the last two Saturdays in September.

“I like to meet the people we sell to, and I know our customers like to meet us,” Dolores said. “Seeing their smiles, hear-ing their recipes and hearing about their families makes it so personal.”

Dolores speaks to various organizations and has a weekly cooking show on WABG-TV in Greenville. In addition, she and her daughter, Anne-Lauren, regularly attend the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Show in Monterey, California. The Fratesis are also listed on Mississippi State University’s Mississippi MarketMaker internet market-ing service.

A member of the lobster family, the freshwater prawn is high in protein and low in iodine, sodium and fat. It also has fewer calories than other species of shrimp.

Steve and Dolores Fratesi encourage you to make a point of eating healthy, sus-tainable, locally grown U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish and U.S. Freshwater Prawns. See the freshwater prawn recipes on page 14, compliments of Lauren Farms.

More InformationFor more information, contact Steve

and Dolores Fratesi at Lauren Farms, 655 Napanee Road, Leland, MS 38756 or (662) 390-3528.

You may also visit their website at www.laurenfarms.com.

Steve and Dolores are founders of the U.S. Freshwater Prawn and Shrimp Grow-ers Association and are longtime members of the Washington County Farm Bureau.

Dolores cooks a prawn dish at the Mississippi Farmers Market in Jackson.


4 cups chicken broth ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup regular grits (look for locally stone-ground grits) 1 cup (4 oz.) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided1 cup (4 oz.) shredded Monterey Jack cheese with peppers2 tablespoons butter or margarine6 green onions, chopped1 green bell pepper, chopped1 garlic clove, minced1 lb. U. S. Farm-Raised Freshwater Prawns, peeled1 (10 oz.) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained¼ teaspoon salt¼ teaspoon pepper

Bring four cups chicken broth and ½ teaspoon salt to a boil in a large saucepan. Stir in grits. Cook until thickened according to pack-age directions. Stir together grits, ¾ cup Cheddar cheese and Mon-terey Jack cheese. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat; add green onions, bell pepper and garlic and sauté five minutes or until tender. Stir together green onion mixture, grits mixture, prawns and next three ingredients. Pour into a lightly greased two-quart baking dish. Sprinkle top with remaining ¼ cup shredded Cheddar cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes or until hot.

Prawns & Grits Casserole

1 lb. freshwater prawn tails, shelled3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oilKosher salt and fresh cracked pepper ¾ cup chicken broth2 tablespoons soy sauce1 tablespoon cornstarch½ teaspoon sugar1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger3 garlic cloves, minced1 (16-oz.) bag frozen stir-fry vegetables, thawed and drained

Season prawns with salt and pepper to taste. In a wok or large skillet, heat one tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add prawns and stir-fry for three to four minutes or until prawns are just cooked. Do not overcook! Transfer prawns to a plate.

In a small bowl, mix the broth, soy sauce, cornstarch and sugar. Set aside.Add remaining oil to wok. Add the ginger and garlic and sauté for one to two

minutes. Add the stir-fry vegetables and cook, stirring until crisp-tender. Add the sauce to the pan and stir until thickened, about two minutes. Return the prawns to the pan and toss to coat. Serve with rice or noodles.

Lauren Farms Prawn Stir-Fry


Would like to thank the following major sponsors for their support of the 2013 campaign. Without them these efforts would not be possible.

GOLD BENEFACTORS

For more information about this effort or to contribute, visit www.growingmississippi.org orcontact Greg Gibson at 1.800.227.8244 ext. 4242 or [email protected]

Mississippi Cattlemen’s Assn.Mississippi Corn Promotion BoardMississippi Rice Promotion Board

Mississippi Soybean Promotion BoardMississippi State Support Unit of Cotton Inc.

Sanderson Farms

FOUNDATION SPONSORMississippi Farm Bureau Federation

PLATINUM BENEFACTORS

BASFCase IH

DuPont Crop Protection

Eat JacksonJimmy Sanders Inc.

John DeereMississippi Land Bank, FLCA

Mississippi Poultry Assn.Monsanto Company

Pioneer Hybrid

SILVER BENEFACTORSArant Acres

Archer Daniels Midlandand Co.Catfish Farmers of Mississippi Crop Production Services (CPS)

Delta Farm Press-Penton MediaDow Agrosciences

Dulaney SeedFirst South Farm Credit

Helena ChemicalJeff Davis County Farm BureauLincoln County Farm BureauMS Agricultural Aviation Assn.

MS Peanut Growers Assn.MS Peanut Promotion Board

Producers Rice Mill, Inc.Table 100

The Catfish InstituteTerral Seed

BRONZE BENEFACTORSAmite County Farm Bureau

Buck Island SeedBunge North America

Danny R. Holland & Company, Inc.Dairy Farmers of America

Delta Ag ExpoDelta Oil Mill

DeSoto County Farm BureauFarmers Grain Terminal, Inc.

GreenPoint AgMilburn Growers

Mississippi Agricultural Consultants Assn.

Mississippi Agricultural Industry CouncilMississippi Department of Agriculture & Commerce

Mississippi Pork Producers Assn.Mississippi Seedmen’s Assn.

Mississippi Sweet Potato CouncilNeshoba County Farm Bueau

RiceTec SeedSoutheast Mississippi Livestock

StaplcotnTJ Beall Company, Inc.The Scoular Company

Winfield Solutions

®


A Whole Lotof BerriesBy Glynda Phillips

HHays Berry Farms in Dumas is the largest commercial blackberry operation in Mississippi and one of the few of its kind in the South. Here you will find 7,000 blackberry bushes, or eight miles of trellised plants, that supply 39 restaurants in Memphis and 19 farmers markets in Memphis, Hernando and the Booneville area. Hays Berry Farms offers a U-pick opportunity for interested customers, and the farm will pick berries for you if you call ahead and place an order. The farm also supplies Sugaree Bakery in New Albany.

As impressive as it is today, you would never guess that Hays Berry Farms came about almost accidentally.

Some History“I was working in construction full-time in 2000 when I

planted six blackberry bushes for my family to enjoy,” owner Robert Hays said. “My neighbors saw the bushes and asked if they could pick some berries, too. After that, I began adding bushes each year, and in 2004, I decided to turn this into a business. That’s when we got into it in a serious way.”

Robert says he can’t keep up with the demand. At the time of his interview in May, he already had orders

for 36,000 gallons of blackberries. He said if the weather co-operated this summer he would harvest about 12,000 gallons.


The growing season for blackberries generally stretches from May through August, but in a good year, it can go until November. One year, Robert stopped pick-ing blackberries on Thanksgiving Day.

Not for Faint of Heart

Growing blackberries is not for the faint of heart.

“It costs about $14,000 per acre to get started with this,” Robert said. “Seven years will pass before you will break even with your investment. Blackberries are labor intensive and demand a lot of your time. My family and I work year round, picking, pruning, setting out new plants and tying up vines.

“This is primarily a family operation, with my wife and two sons helping me. But I do hire people seasonally to help pick. I am hoping to hire one or two full-time workers after this year because it is so time consuming. It takes my oldest son four and one-half days just to cut the grass and weed-eat around the bushes.”

Hays Berry Farms grows eight varieties of blackberries, including Navaho, Arap-aho, Ouachita, Natchez and Apache (all introduced by the University of Arkansas) as well as Black Satin, Triple Crown and Osage. All of the bushes are thornless and disease resistant.

Robert says his berries are grown without fertilizer or pesticides. He uses hay and pine straw for bedding, and he plants flowers, like alyssum, to draw beneficial insects and birds, like praying mantis, lady bugs and hummingbirds, to rid his plants of insects naturally. He also works with insect and disease experts at Mississippi State University (MSU) to make sure he is up to date on the very latest production methods.

“I had some experts from MSU out here just the other day,” he said. “They said they were impressed with how the plants looked and how little insect and disease damage they had sustained.”

Marketing BerriesRobert says he doesn’t pick his berries

half ripe like some farms that ship them cross-country to grocery stores.

“Mine are ripe when picked, and they are sweeter.”

Robert stores his berries in a cool shed until they can be transported via truck to where they need to be. He has access to an air-conditioned trailer he borrows when necessary. He says you can keep berries about two weeks if they are refrigerated.

Future plans for the farm include adding agritourism elements like a zipline, hiking trails, picnic tables and a canteen. Robert says he has many potential customers for this aspect of the operation just from the many area universities and community colleges. He intends to offer his facilities for parties, reunions, retreats and other special occasions. He has cut hardwood and planted pecan trees for shade and for nuts to sell.

“If I am successful in getting investors, then I will be able to do all of this sooner,” he said. “If not, it will take me one more year of raising blackberries before I can get it all going.”

One other venture that’s in the works for Hays Berry Farms is a possible appearance on a California-based reality television show for small farmers and ranchers. The people connected with the show called, and Robert passed the preliminary tests.

Stay tuned.

More InformationRobert Hays grew up in Cary and

moved to Dumas after purchasing land there with plans to eventually retire in the area.

“All I wanted was five or 10 acres,” he said with a grin. “I ended up with 65 acres and a thriving blackberry operation. I am very happy.”

Robert consults for 15 beginning black-berry growers and welcomes opportunities to lecture about growing and marketing blackberries.

For more information, visit his website at www.haysberryfarms.com or call Robert at (662) 538-2899. You may email him at [email protected].


ASupport Local Farmers

By Glynda Phillips


AAs Louis Thompson unloads a tank-ful of bass fingerlings at Thompson Fisheries near Tchula on a hot and hu-mid morning in June, it is clear that he is in his element. It is hard to visualize him doing anything else for a living ... nor would he want to.

Louis has worked in our state’s aquaculture industry his whole life. It could even be said that it is in his genes. His father was among the state’s first farm-raised catfish growers, along with his friend Skinner Anderson.

“In the 1950s, my father decided to clear this land for row crops,” Louis said. “He eventually dug a few ponds, and those fish ponds, in time, evolved into our farm-raised catfish operation.

“In the beginning, my father tried buffalo fish and bass before settling on channel catfish. Catfish are more easily domesticated,” he said. “He split his big ponds into smaller ponds and began rais-ing them for the new and growing mar-ket. He also decided to begin a hatchery as the industry continued to grow.

“Back in those growing years, our industry had its ups and downs and growing pains along the way, but we al-ways managed to persevere until around the year 2000, when grain prices started going up and foreign fish started com-ing in,” he said. “At that point, farmers began to get out of it, and the industry began to shrink.”

Additional reasons for the decline in domestic production of farm-raised catfish include a recessive economy and rising costs of fuel, utilities and other inputs.

“Last year was the last year we had our catfish hatchery here on the farm,” Louis said.

At its largest, Thompson Fisheries

boasted 500 to 600 water acres of farm-raised catfish ponds. Today, it is down to around 100 water acres.

Support Local FarmersLouis says he will continue working

within the aquaculture industry even as he begins to get out of commercial farm-raised catfish production.

“In the 1980s, in addition to catfish, we dabbled in grass carp, which eat vegetation in both catfish and recre-ational ponds. We have been doing that ever since,” he said. “Now, I am raising catfish, bass, bream, grass carp and other fish to stock recreational ponds. I sell to distributors who consult with landown-ers about their ponds. If you look down from an airplane as it crosses the state, you will see thousands of little ponds, especially in the hills.

“I am phasing out of farm-raised

catfish, but I continue to support organi-zations like Catfish Farmers of Missis-sippi, Catfish Farmers of America, The Catfish Institute and the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Aquaculture Advisory Committee. Farm-raised cat-fish is my first love, and I just wish we could help the industry recover.

“Growing catfish has made a good life for me,” he added. “It saddens me that something that has been so good for the state of Mississippi and this region is struggling. The industry has brought in a consultant to review where we are and where we may be going. We will see how that goes.”

In recent years, catfish growers also worked hard to get a Country of Origin Labeling law passed so that consumers who purchase fish in a grocery store or restaurant will know where it was grown.

Louis hopes the industry will begin to grow again. If that doesn’t happen, Louis hopes the farmers who are left will prosper.

“I hope consumers will ask where the fish they purchase were grown and insist on buying only U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish,” he said. “I hope consumers will support local farmers. All of these reports in the press about imported fish tainted with chemicals should make people stop and think.

“You get what you pay for.”

Roger Barlow, president of The Cat-fish Institute and executive vice presi-dent of the Catfish Farmers of America, says Louis Thompson, is a true icon, representing the very best in giving of his time and support to the industry.

U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish

“I hope consumers

will ask where the fish they

purchase were grown and insist on buying only

U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish.”


It’s right here,and easy to

pull out

AgMag

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AgMagCORN®

Hey KIDS:Check out our newThat’s just for you.

A n a g r i c u l t u r a l n e w s l e t t e r f o r k i d s f r o mM i s s i s s i p p i F a r m B u r e a u F e d e r a t i o n

AGMagAd7/13_Layout 1 7/10/13 2:49 PM Page 1

It CAN Happen to You; It Happened to Me

MARCH/APRIL20

Our newest partnership to help Farm Bureau members is with a com-pany called ID Experts. They provide a service that most people will

never need, but if you do need it, you will thankyour lucky stars that you have it available to you.ID theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the

country. And when someone steals your identity, itcan take years to fix all of the problems this cancause you.ID theft takes many forms. Someone could steal your credit card num-

ber or set up a credit card in your name that you don’t know about. Then theycould charge thousands of dollars to that credit card and the card company

thinks it’s you who owes them money.Or how about this? Someone gets your social security number and files an IRS return in your

name and steals your refund. It could be several months before you even discover that it happened.Or this?Adoctor in LosAngeles had her identity stolen by a sophisticated international crime

ring that set up shop in her name and was bilking Medicare out of hundreds of thousands of dol-lars. The government then came knocking at her door wanting the money back.For these reasons and many more, Farm Bureau felt the need to help our members who have

been victims of these types of crimes. This new Member Benefits program will help any FarmBureau member who has been victimized by identity theft get their credit restored to pre-theft sta-tus. And the best part of this program is that it doesn’t cost the member a penny!This free Identity Theft Credit Restoration Program is now avail-

able and will work with you to fix all the problems that come with IDtheft. For more information on this program, check out our Web siteat www.msfb.org or call Member Benefits Coordinator Dedra Luke at601-977-4169.

By Greg Gibson, MFBF Member Services Director

MEMBER BENEFITS SPOTLIGHT

ID Theft CreditRestoration Assistance

The highly successful Farm Families of Mississippi ag image cam-paign began its fourth year on the air in late February. This statewide ef-fort to educate the public about the importance of agriculture will be ex-panding its reach once again this year. The newest TV market will beHattiesburg, which will join with the established markets in Jackson,Biloxi, Greenville, Tupelo and theMississippi Public Broadcasting Net-work.Farm Families of Mississippi has also entered into a partnership

with Eat Jackson, a leader in foodmedia and culinary events production,to be the presenting sponsor of that organization for 2013. Eat Jackson’sfounder, Andy Chapman, said this marketing partnership with FarmFamilies ofMississippi demonstrates a shared commitment to the growthof our state’s economy and makes a strong statement for the mutual im-portance of agriculture and the culinary arts to our state’s long-term suc-cess.“We know farmers work tirelessly every day to make the food they

grow better and more affordable,” said Daryl Burney, who chairs theFarm Families ofMississippi Committee. “That’s whywe are so excitedto tell our stories, answer questions and demonstrate our commitment toproviding healthy choices for everyone. This partnership with Eat Jack-son will help us do that.”To learn more about Eat Jackson, visit www.EatJackson.com

or www.EatYall.com.

Farm Familiesof Mississippi

MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY

MSFB_MarApr13_TH.qxd:Layout 1 2/1/13 1:53 PM Page 20

One of the most helpless and disconcerting feelings I’ve ever experienced happened to me this past April. It was a Friday afternoon about 5:30 p.m., after a long week

at work, and I was preparing for a nice quiet weekend at home when the phone rang. It was my ac-countant, who said that he had just been contacted by the IRS about my tax return. The IRS claimed that a return had already been filed using my daughter’s social security number. My daughter is still in college, and I still claim her on my tax return. She had not filed a tax return.

Apparently, someone had obtained my daughter’s name, address and social security number and filed a return in her name, trying to get money from the government.

Needless to say, my quiet weekend was ruined. How did this happen? What did I need to do? The helpless part was I didn’t even know where to start.

Program to the RescueFortunately, Farm Bureau had just launched a new member benefit

for all Farm Bureau members that deals with identity theft. Our new Identity Theft Credit Restoration program, administered through ID Experts, is designed to help restore your credit to pre-theft status and is free to use for all Farm Bureau members.

I called the hotline number and explained what had happened. The Farm Bureau representative took all my information and said that some-one from ID Experts would contact me within one business day. That was about 7 p.m. on Friday night, which meant it would be sometime Monday when I should expect a call.

Sure enough, just before lunch on Monday, I received a call from the intake specialist at ID Experts. She patiently listened to everything that had happened and emailed me a set of documents and instructions to get the process started.There were several things that I had to provide first, including a police report and a couple of notarized documents, one of which was a limited power of attorney allowing ID Experts to work on my/my daughter’s behalf.

After all of the paperwork was signed, ID Experts went to work. We were assigned our case worker, and she is the only person we talked with from then on. That’s one great thing about the way ID Experts handles these cases. You don’t have to re-explain your situation to a new person every time you contact them.

The first document that had to be filed was a form to the IRS alert-ing them that a fraudulent return had been filed. Then the three credit bureaus were alerted to put a 90-day temporary fraud alert on my daughter’s credit reports. This ensures that if someone tries to open an account in my daughter’s name, the company must contact her directly to make sure she is the one trying to open the account. There have been two attempts to open such accounts and both have been thwarted by the procedures that have been set in place.

A seven-year fraud alert has now been placed on my daughter’s credit reports replacing the 90-day temporary alert. This will extend the protec-tion that she has against someone opening an account in her name.

The IRS required me to re-file my tax return by mail, and incredibly,

I received my refund within three weeks. That let us know that the IRS was satisfied we were the victim and the other return had been denied.

After approximately six weeks from the initial discovery of the ID theft, it appears that everything is under control. ID Experts has said that we can expect more attempts to open fraudulent accounts after the initial 90-day period has ended. The crooks will want to see if we extended the fraud alert to seven years. When they are continually denied, ID Experts believes that the attempts will stop. I hope they are correct.

Peace of MindThe overriding point to this whole story is that, even if I had done

all the things myself that ID Experts did on my daughter’s behalf, there would still have been doubts about whether I was doing everything that needed to be done. The confidence of knowing that the leaders in the ID theft credit restoration industry were working for me made this whole experience bearable. Frustrating…..but bearable.

You can know that, too! This ID Theft Credit Restoration benefit is provided to all Farm Bureau members FREE OF CHARGE. It’s covered in your membership dues. If you were to purchase a similar program individually, you would pay anywhere from $70 to $100 per year, but Farm Bureau pays your premium for you and provides it to you for free. You don’t have to sign up or register for it in advance. It’s there if you need it. We hope you don’t – but you’ll really appreciate it if you do!

Your membership in Farm Bureau is packed with value. Through all of the money-saving programs offered by Farm Bureau, members saved over $900,000 in 2012. For a complete list of all the member benefits available to you, visit our website at www.msfb.org or call Member Benefits Coordinator Dedra Luke at (601) 977-4169.

By Greg Gibson, MFBF Member Services Director

MEMBER BENEFITS SPOTLIgHT


Mississippi soybeans play an important role in Mississippi’s number one industry - agriculture. In 2012, Mississippi soybean farmers produced more than 72 million bushels of soybeans that will provide food, feed, fuel and more. The Mississippi soybean industry grew from being the state’s third ranking commodity in 2011 to being ranked the second largest commodity in 2012.

As Mississippi farmers, we take care in growing healthy food while preserving the land we use to produce it. The farmer-led Mississippi Soybean Promotion Board (MSPB) thanks all those that help to speak out about the importance of agriculture to our nation, our state, our local communities and our families. MSPB proudly sponsors

Farm Families of Mississippi as they provide consumers with information about food production in Mississippi. And soybean farmers nationwide also help answer consumer questions about food and farming through a program called CommonGround. To learn more, visit www.growingmississippi.org or www.fi ndourcommonground.com.

Sincerely,

Jan de Regt – ChairmanMississippi Soybean Promotion Board

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TAlison’s

By Glynda Phillips


TThrough the years, Alison’s in down-

town Belzoni has become a Delta tradition. Owned and operated for over a decade by Alison and Jerry Wade, the restaurant has drawn patrons from Humphreys and surrounding counties and even enjoyed customers from as far away as Jackson.

Recently, Alison’s was passed down to the Wades’ son, Anthony, who is excited about taking the reins. In keeping with his parents’ vision, he says he intends to take the restaurant in a new direction.

U.S. Farm-Raised CatfishAlison’s has always served a variety

of foods, but catfish is its main claim to fame. The restaurant cooks about a case (15 pounds) of U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish a week or about 60 pounds a month. It is sup-plied by Heartland Catfish and Freshwater Farms.

“We sell fried catfish fillets, but I also do a John Grisham pan-sautéed catfish with a lemon cream sauce,” Anthony said. “We got the idea for a dish like this from Chef John Currence at City Grocery and Bouré in Oxford, but it is our own special version. It is delicious.”

Other items on the menu now include seafood pasta, quail in a red wine reduction and speckled trout in a white cream sauce, to name a few. Anthony has seafood flown in fresh from New Orleans.

Among the desserts are a sweet potato crème brûlée and a chocolate chess pie. An-thony says his mama makes the chess pie, and it is one of the best he has ever tasted.

Long HistoryAnthony’s family has enjoyed a long

history in the restaurant business. Besides his parents, his paternal grandparents, Buckwheat and Sofia Wade, owned and operated three Delta restaurants, Buck-wheat’s, Sofia’s Steakhouse and the renowned Twingates. His uncle, a chef, has two restaurants in San Francisco, where Anthony worked for a time before return-ing to Belzoni.

“I loved working and living there, as well as on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, but

the Delta is my home,” he said. “It is where I grew up. My wife, Lindsay, and I are happy to be back.”

Anthony’s maternal grandmother, Ad-elaide Coleman, is an excellent cook, who grew farm-raised catfish in the Delta in the early 1970s and 1980s.

CateringIn addition to the restaurant, Anthony

caters special events, such as parties and wedding receptions. The building that houses Alison’s boasts an annex for over-

flow and catering purposes.Anthony says he hopes he can grow

both the restaurant and the catering busi-ness, but he is satisfied with the volume of work he does now and with the restaurant being open three days a week, on Thurs-day, Friday and Saturday, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. He invites you to visit Alison’s, located at 107 East Jackson Street.

For more information, you can call Anthony at (662) 247-4487 or (601) 813-6437.


The historic United Methodist church


Our mystery town grew up along the Mississippi-Tennessee Rail-road. The railroad contributed economically, employing local people and picking up grain and other agricultural products to be shipped around the country. The railroad still runs through town, but the depot is now closed.

This town has historically depended upon the economic contribu-tion of row crops. Cotton was once big here, but the gin is closed and soybeans and corn are now the preferred crops of area farmers. The town is home to North Mississippi Grain Elevator.

SolvetheMystery?

Our mystery town was founded in 1856 as a small village called Elm Grove. When the town was incor-porated in 1872, it took the name of a nearby river. This town was once a part of DeSoto County before boundary lines were moved and a new county, Tate County, was formed.

Read the clues and make your guess.

North Mississippi Grain Elevator


In the 1930s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began planning Arkabutla Dam, which when completed, impounding Arkabutla Lake, would have flooded our mystery town. In 1942, the U. S. govern-ment moved the town and its 700 residents one mile south to get away from flood-water. A town monument states that, as of May 1999, the lake had reached flood level six times, and parts of “Old Town” remain underwater year round.

In 1999, our mystery town boasted 1,500 residents and was three square miles in size. The town has schools, a public library, doctor’s offices, a bank and other businesses. It has an attractive downtown square with two pavilions, where programs are held on special occasions.

Our mystery town is located near the cities of Memphis, Hernando, Senatobia and Holly Springs. It also has access to abundant outdoor recreational opportuni-ties, including rivers and lakes.

This town is home to Homestead Farms Greenhouse and Nursery, which does landscape work and sells plants wholesale in Memphis and the surrounding area. It is home to the Trade Days campground, which draws people from the surrounding area and other states, offering flea market items and antiques. The Lamp Shade is a famous local business.

Our mystery town boasts historic homes, including the Todd House.

Famous folks from here include Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Dumas Malone; actress Dorris Bowdon; and Olympic track and field runner Trell Kimmons. U.S. Rep-resentative Thomas Webber Wilson, 1923-1929, was also from our mystery town.

Name this town.

Correct GuessesMail guesses to Solve the Mystery,

Mississippi Farm Country, P. O. Box 1972, Jackson, MS 39215. You may also email

your guesses to [email protected]. Please remember to include your name and address on the entry.

Visit our Mississippi Farm Bureau Fed-eration website at www.msfb.org.

When all correct guesses have been received, we will randomly draw 20 names. These 20 names will receive a prize and will be placed in the hat twice. At the end of the year, a winner will be drawn from all correct submissions. The winner will receive a Weekend Bed and Breakfast Trip, courtesy of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation.

Families may submit only one entry. Federation staff members and their families are ineligible to participate in this contest.

The deadline for submitting your entry is September 30.

July/AugustThe correct answer for the July/August

Solve the Mystery is Coffeeville.

The historic Todd House


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Teachers from across the state participated in Ag in the Classroom workshops held this summer in Hernando, Jackson and Hattiesburg. The workshops, which are coordinated by the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Women’s Program, give teachers ideas about how they can incorporate agriculture into their classroom activities. Lectures and hands-on activities were presented by State Women’s Committee members and others. A special thanks to Nancy Strickland and Nelda Starks with the Mississippi Cattlewomen’s Association and Sandy Havard and Lise Foy with the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Museum in Jackson. Participants also received first aid safety tips from Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Safety Specialists John Hubbard, Trey Pope and Chris Shivers. Pictured are Region 4 Women’s Chair Jody Bailey and State Women’s Chair Betty Mills demonstrating the mobile cotton gin.

Ag in the Classroom Workshops


TThings You Don’t ForgetBy Sam E. Scott, MFBF General Counsel

All of us have them – some are good and some are bad. Some are epiphanies, some are disasters or near disasters, some are windfalls or unexpected blessings. Often, we learn important lessons from them, but sometimes, we don’t. At times, it may be like the opening line from “A Tale of Two Cities:”

“It was the best of times; it was the worst of times…”When I was growing up, there were two things that everyone

in that little north corner of the Delta remembered: the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 and the Great Depression. My parents grew up in the hills of Webster County, so they were not flood-ed, but they married in 1933 and never got over the Depression.

In 1934, they both taught school and were paid $50 per month each, but the state was insolvent, and they were paid in state warrants, which were just government I.O.U.s. The local bank would cash them at a 33 1/3 percent discount, leaving them $66.66 for both their month’s work. Typical of their at-titudes, they were glad to get it and said it didn’t bother them to have nothing because nobody else did, and they didn’t have to stand in a bread line as so many did. Also, they had each other for 62 years.

During World War I, American farmers were constantly pushed to increase production, and the government guaranteed high prices and large purchases from other countries affected by the war. Farmers were encouraged and bought new and expensive equipment and more land and incurred large debts. In 1919, the bottom dropped out after the end of the war, and an agricultural depression came about. Prices and demand were so low that crops sat unsold. Products and foods rotted in storage, while people starved in the cities. Things were bad in the 1920s but got far worse in the 1930s, when national unemployment exceeded 20 percent and, in some areas, reached 50 percent. If you lived through it, how could you forget it?

My grandfather was a country lawyer. Having a large, grow-ing family and clients who were totally dependent upon farm-ing, he couldn’t make a living practicing law, so he had to leave and take other jobs to feed his family. But like so many others, they persevered but never forgot moving around and making the best of it.

During the 1930s, farmers by the thousands lost their land. The Federal Land Bank owned millions of acres through fore-closure, and it took 20 years or more to sell it back to farmers. The plight of those millions who were dispossessed is sadly told in John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath,” and it still is a chill-ing and poignant story 80 years later. The book describes the journey of multitudes who were looking for any kind of home or

work but found mostly resentment or hatred. In the meantime, big-money interests bought up foreclosed farms for pennies on the dollar, and Steinbeck described that process in California, but it was not unique there:

“And it came about that the owners no longer worked on their farms. They farmed on paper; and they forgot the land, the smell, the feel of it, and remembered only that they owned it, remembered only what they gained and lost by it. And some of the farms grew so large that one man could not even conceive of them anymore, so large that it took batteries of bookkeepers to keep track of interest and gain and loss; chemists to test the soil, to replenish; straw bosses to see that the stooping men were moving along the rows as swiftly as the material of their bodies could stand.”

We must never forget what farming and agriculture mean to this country and the world. Americans spend less of their income on food than any other developed country. Every time Congress considers a farm bill, we hear complaints about subsidizing rich farmers. I grew up on a farm and have been connected with land and farming for all my life and do not re-member ever meeting many rich people who made their fortunes farming.

Why shouldn’t our government promote and protect agri-culture? It does support or subsidize many causes and people worldwide that not only don’t feed and clothe us, but don’t do anything for us and never have. The same is true here for subsi-dies. Is agriculture less deserving than Amtrak?

Mechanization and world wars depopulated our nation’s farms but did not diminish the work ethic and strongly held fam-ily values that I have observed for more than 50 years. Yet, eco-nomically, most still struggle, and if one compares the prices of commodities 50+ years ago with those of today and then factors in the cost of land and equipment, it does not take rocket science to understand. We can only hope that Congress understands and acts accordingly.

Most farmers I know and have known are optimistic and brave when times are tough. My dad taught that no matter how bad something is or seems to be, good can and usually does come out of it if you have the right attitude and faith.

That I never forgot.

Sam E. Scott is general counsel for Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation and practices law in the Law Firm of Samuel E. Scott, PLLC, in Jackson. The foregoing information is general in nature and is not intended as nor should be considered specific legal advice, nor to be considered as MFBF’s position or opinion.

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New Ag Exhibit Ribbon-Cutting

Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation President Randy Knight, Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Cindy Hyde-Smith and members of Farm Families of Mississippi participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to showcase a new agricultural exhibit on display in the Heritage Center at the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Museum in Jackson. The exhibit, made possible by the Farm Families of Mississippi, showcases the importance and contributions of Mississippi agriculture. It features information about Mississippi’s farmers, farmland and agricultural commodities as well as interactive activities, including two iPads with information and educational videos about Mississippi agriculture and a kiosk with an interactive game called “My American Farm” that teaches people about agriculture in America.


2013 Gary LangleyMemorial Clay Shoot

By Kirsten JohnsonMFBF YF&R Coordinator

On June 22, the Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) State Committee hosted the Gary Langley Memorial Clay Shoot at Kearney Park Farms in Flora. This yearly event is held in memory of Gary Langley, a previous YF&R State Committee member who lost his life in a tragic tractor accident. All of the proceeds from the event are donated to the YF&R Scholarship Foundation.

This year, even though the temperature was very hot, the event enjoyed a great turnout. Sixteen four-man teams competed for a variety of prizes. The course consists of 100 shots at 15 different

stations, creating a challenging and fun course. The committee would like to thank all of the sponsors, donors

and participants for making the event a success. Committee mem-bers would also like to extend a very special thank you to Mis-sissippi Farm Bureau Federation President Randy Knight, North MS Vice President Donald Gant, Central MS Vice President Ted Kendall IV and South MS Vice President Reggie Magee for their generous donation of a Browning A5 12-Gauge Shotgun that was awarded to the high shooter of the day, Dustin Simmons.

For more information about the Mississippi Farm Bureau Fed-eration YF&R Program, call (601) 977-4277.

First-place team members – Simpson County 4-H, sponsored by Simpson County Farm Bureau –Todd Dupre’, John Dupre’, Rob Holbrook and Todd Dupre’ Jr

Second-place team members – MS Tent & Party Rental (High Shooter: Dustin Simmons) –Lee Hutchison, Dustin Simmons, Andrew Parrish and Jared Busick

Third-place team members – Barton Farms – David Barton, Bryan Jones, Dan Hughes and Joe Lauderdale

PrizesR andy Knight, Donald Gant, TedKendall & Reggie Magee – Top Shooter – Browning A5 12-Gauge Shotgun Academy Sports & Outdoors – First Place – Four 54-Quart Camo Coleman CoolersYF&R State Committee – Second Place – Four Nikon Camo BinocularsWatson Quality Ford – Third Place – Four $50 Visa Gift Cards

Station SponsorsAdams County Farm BureauSouthern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Co.Jimmy Sanders, Inc.Calhoun County Farm BureauCommunity BankMarion County Farm BureauFirst Security BankMS Tent & Party RentalJefferson County Farm BureauAttala County Farm BureauAgri-AFC-Mike McCormickBrignac Flying Service

Leaf River Vet ServiceKubota Tractor

Door PrizesAcademy Sports & OutdoorsCabot Lodge Jackson NorthChick-Fil-ADeviney EquipmentGraingerHilton JacksonMississippi Farm Bureau CasualtyInsurance Company - Sales DepartmentScrooge’s

YF&R Clay Shoot

Danielle Budy of Woods County, OK, Photo by D. Mielke, OKFB

YF&R SHAPES THE FUTUREFarm Bureau® Young Farmers & Ranchers Program

For more information about YF&R competitive events and how you can get involved, contact your state Farm Bureau office or the American Farm Bureau Federation® at [email protected] or 202-406-3600

The YF&R program helps young members shape the future of agriculture,

as well as their own, with leadership development. The program strives to

provide personal growth and advancement opportunities for its members, while

building a more effective Farm Bureau to preserve the industry.

As part of the YF&R program, top members are highlighted each January in three competitive areas.

Three winners will receive their choice of a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado or

GMC Sierra truck, courtesy of GM; nine national finalists will receive a Case IH Farmall tractor, courtesy of

Case IH; as well as a $2,500 cash prize and $500 in STIHL merchandise.


County Annual MeetingsAlcorn County Farm BureauTuesday, Sept. 24, at 6 p.m.

Alcorn County Extension OfficeCorinth

Meal will be provided. Bring your favorite dessert.

Amite County Farm BureauThursday, Oct. 17, at 6:30 p.m.

Harrison Bldg. Liberty

Attala County Farm BureauThey will release their

information locally.

Chickasaw CountyFarm Bureau

Thursday, Oct. 3, at 7 p.m.Farm Bureau Office

Houston

Claiborne CountyFarm Bureau

Thursday, Sept. 19, at 12 p.m.Farm Bureau Office

Port Gibson

Clarke County Farm BureauThursday, Oct. 31, at 6:30 p.m.

Multipurpose Bldg.Quitman

RSVP by Oct. 25 at(601) 776-6977.

Covington CountyFarm Bureau

Thursday, Oct. 10, at 6:30 p.m.Multipurpose Bldg.

Collins

George County Farm BureauMonday, Sept. 9, 7 p.m.

Farm Bureau Office Lucedale

Grenada CountyFarm Bureau

Tuesday, Sept. 3, at 7:30 a.m.Farm Bureau Office

Grenada

Harrison CountyFarm Bureau

Saturday, Oct. 5, at 6 p.m.West Harrison High School

Gulfport

Hinds County Farm BureauMonday, Sept. 30, at 1 p.m.

Farm Bureau OfficeRaymond

Jackson CountyFarm Bureau

Saturday, Sept. 28, at 4 p.m.East Central

Community CenterHwy 614 Hurley

Jeff Davis CountyFarm Bureau

Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 7 p.m.Farm Bureau Office

Prentiss

Jones County Farm BureauTuesday, Oct. 1, at 6:30 p.m.

Farm Bureau OfficeLaurel

Kemper County Farm BureauThursday, Sept. 12, at 6 p.m.

County Farmer’sMarket Building

DeKalb

Lamar County Farm BureauMonday, Sept. 16, at 6 p.m.Midway Community Center

1166 Old Hwy 24 andKnight Road

Sumrall

Lauderdale CountyFarm Bureau

Monday, Oct. 14, at 6 p.m.Farm Bureau Office

Meridian

Leflore County Farm BureauThursday, Oct. 24, at 7 p.m.

Farm Bureau OfficeGreenwood

Lincoln County Farm BureauMonday, Oct. 14, at 7 p.m.

Farm Bureau OfficeBrookhaven

Marion County Farm BureauThursday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m.Columbia Exposition Center

150 Industrial Park RdColumbia

Monroe County Farm BureauTuesday, Oct. 8, at 7 p.m.

Farm Bureau Office Aberdeen

Montgomery CountyFarm Bureau

Tuesday, Oct. 22, at 6:30 p.m.Farm Bureau Office

Winona

Neshoba CountyFarm Bureau

Tuesday, Oct. 15, at 6:30 p.m.Neshoba County Coliseum

Philadelphia

Newton County Farm BureauThursday, Oct. 24, at 6:30 p.m.

First Baptist ChurchNewton

Noxubee CountyFarm Bureau

Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 7 p.m.County Civic Center

Macon

Oktibbeha CountyFarm Bureau

Thursday, Sept. 19, at 6:30 p.m.

Farm Bureau OfficeStarkville

(We have moved to 905 Stark Road.)

Panola County Farm BureauMonday, Sept. 16, at 6 p.m.

Panola CountyExtension Building

Batesville

Pearl River CountyFarm Bureau

Thursday, Oct. 3, at 6:30 p.m.First Baptist Church

Poplarville

Rankin County Farm BureauTuesday, Nov. 5, at 6 p.m.

Brandon City Library1475 W. Government St.

Brandon

Scott County Farm BureauThursday, Sept. 5, at 6:30 p.m.

Roosevelt State Park(Alfreda Lodge)

Morton

Simpson CountyFarm Bureau

Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 6:30 p.m.County Jr. Livestock Building

Hwy 49 South Mendenhall

Smith County Farm BureauTuesday, Sept. 10, at 7 p.m.

Farm Bureau OfficeRaleigh

Tallahatchie County Farm Bureau

Thursday, Oct. 17, at 6 p.m.Farm Bureau Office

Charleston

Tippah County Farm BureauMonday, Sept. 16, at 6 p.m.

County FairgroundsRipley

Tishomingo CountyFarm Bureau

Thursday, Sept. 19,at 6:30 p.m.

County High School CafeteriaIuka

Wayne County Farm BureauThursday, Oct. 10, at 6 p.m.

Farm Bureau OfficeWaynesboro

Winston County Farm BureauThursday, Sept. 19, at 7 p.m.

Louisville Shrine ClubLouisville



Summer Commodity Meetings

The 2013 Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) summer commodity meetings enjoyed informative speakers and an active participation in the policy development process. Pictured at the cotton meeting held in Grenada, in conjunction with the Mississippi Boll Weevil Management Corporation’s (MBWMC) annual meeting, is, right photo, MFBF Cotton Advisory Committee Chair Rob Farmer. In the group shot are, from left, Jan Hill, past MFBF President Don Waller and John Swayze, who also serves on the MBWMC board.

Coloring Contest Winner

The Region 7 and State Coloring Contest winner is Caden Talley of Perry County. A presentation was made to Caden during Awards Day at New Augusta Elementary School. Pictured with Caden are Perry County Women’s Chair Sharon Lott, District 7 Women’s Chair Carolyn Turner and State Women’s Committee Vice Chair Shelby Williams. Caden is the son of Brad and Holly Talley.

Mississippi Gourd FestivalThe Fourth Annual Mississippi Gourd Festival will be held

Sept. 21-22 at the Smith County Ag Center in Raleigh. Classes will be offered both days, and the bonus early-bird classes will be held Friday afternoon, Sept. 20. Festival hours are 8 a.m.-5

p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit the website for the Mississippi

Gourd Society at www.mississippigourdsociety.org. You can also call Paul Grubbs at (601) 260-4230.


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Meet Baxter Black at State ConventionMake plans to attend a special meet-

and-greet reception with our convention keynote speaker, Baxter Black, Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. State convention will be held Dec. 7-9 at the Jackson Hilton in Jackson.

Black is a popular cowboy poet, former large animal veterinarian and entertainer of the agricultural masses. He has, as he puts it, “a narrow following, but it’s deep!”

For over 25 years, Black has traveled the U.S. and Canada, scattering his wit and left-handed observations to folks looking for a bright spot in their day. Over 1 million books and audios sold, a weekly column, a weekly radio program, a weekly television program … there’s no place to hide if you live in the country!

“My audience is my inspiration,” he says. “Every cowboy, rancher, vet, farmer,

feed salesman, ag teacher, cowman and ro-deo hand has a story to tell, and they tell it to me. I Baxterize it and tell it back to ‘em! It doesn’t seem fair, does it?”

You can find him in Benson, Arizona, at www.baxterblack.com.

Baxter Black is sponsored in part by Priefert.

Calender of EventsSePT. 20

Rice Tasting LuncheonWalter Sillers ColiseumDelta State University

Cleveland

OCT. 2-13Mississippi State Fair

Mississippi Fairgrounds Jackson

NoV. 14State Resolutions Meeting

MFBF BuildingJackson

NOv. 22-28National Farm-City Week

DeC. 7-9MFBF Annual MeetingJackson Hilton Hotel

Jackson

JAN. 12-15AFBF Annual Meeting

San Antonio, TX

JAN. 27-28Winter Commodity

ConferenceJackson


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4”-12” Wide • 4’-16’ Long • Planing AvailableAlso Cypress T&G Flooring & Paneling

Star, MS • 888-490-9046

Quality, Kiln Dried Lumber4”-12” Wide • 4’-16’ Long • Planing Available

Also Cypress T&G Flooring & PanelingStar, MS • 888-490-9046

Cypress Lumber

Quality, Kiln Dried Lumber4”-12” Wide • 4’-16’ Long • Planing Available

Also Cypress T&G Flooring & PanelingStar, MS • 888-490-9046

Cypress Lumber

CHOIR ROBES$3595

& UPEXPERT

TAILORING

www.rcgown.com

Finest fabrics including permanentpress and wash & wear. Superior

quality. Free color catalog and fabric swatches on request.

GUARANTEED SATISFACTIONCall Toll Free: 1-800-826-8612

P.O. Box 8988-F Jacksonville, FL 32211

The First Annual Sawdust and Splinters event will be held Oct. 31, Nov. 1 and Nov. 2 at Shirard Gray Estates, located between Magnolia and Tylertown just off High-way 48 near the Bogue Chitto River. The event will combine nationally recognized chainsaw carvers and world-champion lumberjacks.

Sawdust and Splinters is the vision and dream of Mike Hobgood, who grew up on an area farm and carved his first duck from red cedar at the age of ten. At the age of eighteen, he traveled out West to Oregon, where he saw his first lumberjack show,

and a new appreciation and interest fol-lowed. Since that time, Mike has traveled many miles to observe lumberjacks and chainsaw carvers all over the United States. With each traveling adventure and with what nature offers in South Mississippi, Sawdust and Splinters began to evolve.

Today, Sawdust and Splinters is a way for Mike to give back to his hometown and the surrounding area by sharing his love of trees and nature, combined with excitement and adventure. It is his hope that Sawdust and Splinters will inspire someone else to dream their dream and also to diligently

aspire to make it a reality.During Sawdust and Splinters, three

separate styles of events will be held: Lumberjack, Pole Climbing and Chainsaw Carving. The competitions will include Hot Saw, Standing Block Chop, Springboard Chop, Double Buck Sawing, Axe Throw-ing, Pole Climbing, Tree Topping and more. Trapper Joe from “Swamp People” will be on hand.

You can order tickets by phone at (601) 876-9635, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m. For more information, visit online at www.sdsfest.com.

Sawdust and Splinters


HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLSQuality Tools at Ridiculously Low Prices

LIFETIME WARRANTYON ALL HAND TOOLS!

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LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 1/1/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day.










LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 1/1/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

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LIMIT 1 - Save 20% on any one item purchased at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon, gift cards, Inside Track Club membership, extended service plans or on any of the following: compressors, generators, tool storage or carts, welders, fl oor jacks, Towable Ride-On Trencher (Item 65162), open box items, in-store event or parking lot sale items. Not valid on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase date with original receipt. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 1/1/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

SUPER

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ANY SINGLE ITEM!

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How do we sell high quality tools at the lowest prices? We cut out the middle man and buy direct from the factories who supply other major brands. It’s just that simple! Come see for yourself and use this 20% Off Coupon on one of our 7,000 products*, plus pick up a Free 6 Piece Screwdriver Set, a $4.99 value . We stock Automotive Tools, Power Tools, Air Tools and Compressors, Engines and Generators, Welders, Hand Tools, Tool Storage, Tarps and much more.• 1 Year Low Price Guarantee!• No Hassle Return Policy!• 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed!• Over 25 Million Satisfi ed Customers!• 430+ Stores Nationwide!NOBODY BEATS OUR QUALITY, SERVICE AND PRICE!

FACTORY DIRECT TO YOU!

STORE LOCATIONS Biloxi TupeloPearl Southaven

Item 47770shown

6 PIECE SCREWDRIVER SET

ITEM 47770/61313

REG. PRICE $4.99

3-POINT QUICK HITCH

LOT NO. 97214

REG. PRICE $129.99 $7499

SAVE $55

27-1/2" CLEARANCE

SAVE 68%

7 FT. 4" x 9 FT. 6" ALL PURPOSE WEATHER

RESISTANT TARP LOT NO. 877/69137/69249/69129/69121

REG. PRICE $8 .99 $279

Item 877 shown

REG. PRICE $5. 99

REG. PRICE $9. 99

$259

$699 27 LED PORTABLE

WORKLIGHT/FLASHLIGHT Item

67227 shown

LOT NO. 67227 /69567/

60566

Requires three AAA batteries (included).

SAVE 56%

SAVE 30%

Item 68375 shown

SAVE $90

LOT NO. 68375 /69774

LOT NO. 98256

REG. PRICE $249 .99 $15999

2" CLEAR WATER PUMP WITH 6 HP GAS ENGINE

(212 CC)

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9060 GPH

SAVE $70

2.5 HP, 21 GALLON, 125 PSI VERTICAL AIR COMPRESSOR LOT NO. 67847 /

69091/61454

$14999 REG. PRICE

$219 .99

Item 67847 shown

6.5 HP OHV HORIZONTAL SHAFT

GAS ENGINES (212 CC)

$9999 REG. PRICE $179 .99

LOT NO. 68121/69727, CALIFORNIA ONLY

LOT NO. 68120/60363/69730

Item 68120 shown

SAVE $80

SAVE 60%

9 PIECE FULLY POLISHED COMBINATION WRENCH

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Item 42304 shown

SAVE $70

RETRACTABLE AIR/WATER HOSE REEL WITH

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LOT NO. 5889

29 PIECE TITANIUM NITRIDE COATED

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Item 68784 shown

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$35999

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9000 LB. WORKING LOAD

WEIGHS 306 LBS.

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LOT NO. 96933/67455/69626/69925Item

96933 shown

SAVE 66%

SAVE $80

RAPID PUMP® 3 TON HEAVY DUTY STEEL FLOOR JACK

LOT NO. 68048 /69227

Item 68048 shown

$6999 REG. PRICE

$149 .99

WEIGHS 74 LBS.

RECIPROCATING SAW WITH ROTATING HANDLE

$1999 REG.

PRICE $49 .99

SAVE 60%

LOT NO. 65570

Item 93897 shown

hft_mississippifarm_0913_M-REG26652.indd 1 7/2/13 3:52:31 PM

As a Farm Bureau member, you have access to many programs and benefits. To learn more, visit our website at www.msfb.org. Or see the Member Benefits information on pages 2, 3 and 20.

SEED FOR SALEWildlife Plot Seed – Clovers - Brassica’s

Cert.Wheat – Oats – Rye – Pasture - LawnsClemmons & Hamner Seed Inc. Killen, AL

256-757-9996

First on the Market,First on the Market,Best in the Field.Best in the Field.

* Certificate expires Must be used by * Participating Dealers Only

2/24/08 3/25/08

Western Farm Show3 Days Only

$300* Cash Rebate on Purchase of Heater

Signed Date

· All stainless steel construction· No smoke, ashes or wood trash in your home· 12 hour burn· 10 to 100 feet from your home· Heats home and household hot water· 25-year warranty· Connects to your existing central duct or hydronic system· Units from 120,000 to 250,000 BTU’s

· Financing Available· Dealer Inquiries Welcome

OUTSIDE

WOODBURNING

FURNACE

“Since 1976”

Hardy ManufacturingCompany, Inc.

Philadelphia, MS 39350

1-800-542-7395www.hardyheater.com

Sanders Marine Construcon Barry Sanders, Owner

Piers, Decks, Boat Lis, Boat Houses, Bulkheads/Headerwalls,

Foundaon Pilings, Boat Launches/Ramps

662-515-2981

STUMP REMOVAL FAST & EASY! ELIMINATE Landscape Eyesores with a DR® STUMP GRINDER!

FAST & EASY! ELIMINATE Landscape Eyesores with a

STUMP GRINDER!

The DR® STUMP GRINDER uses carbide-tipped cutting teeth that take over 360 “bites” per second, pulverizing stumps into a pile of wood chips. Quickly and easily,you can grind any size tree stump below ground level. Gone forever!

• EXPAND lawn areas.• OPEN UP fi elds

and meadows.• REMOVE mowing

hazards.

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ATTENTION TRACTOR OWNERS!

MOW FENCE LINES 3X FASTER!

NEW! 3-POINT HITCH DR® TRIMMER MOWER

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MOW FENCE LINES FAST. Spring-loaded mowing arm automatically defl ects around fence posts.

PIVOTING DECK. Follows the contours of the ground. Great for clearing ditches or mowing along ponds.

NO STEEL BLADES. Commercial-duty, 175 mil cutting line is fl exible and durable. Goes where a bladed mower can’t.


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we are open 7 days a week • 8 am – midnight ESt • Sunday 9 am – midnight ESt

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$ 25 visa®

(courtesy of InfinityDISH, certain conditions apply)gift card with activation

All calls with InfinityDISH are monitored and recorded for quality assurance and training purposes. important terms and Conditions: Promotional Offers: Require activation of new qualifying DISH service with 24-month Commitment and credit qualification. All prices, fees, packages, programming, features, functionality and offers subject to change without notice. After 12-month promotional period, then-current regular monthly price applies and is subject to change. etF: If you cancel service during first 24 months, early cancellation fee of $20 for each month remaining applies. add’tl requirements: Hd Free for life: $10/mo HD fee waived for life of current account; requires continuous enrollment in AutoPay with Paperless Billing. Premium Channels: 3-month premium movie offer value is $135; after promotional period, then-current regular monthly price applies and is subject to change. Blockbuster @Home offer: 3 month offer value $30. After 3 months, then-current regular monthly price applies and is subject to change. Requires online DISH account; broadband internet to stream content; HD DVR to stream to TV. Streaming to TV and some channels not available with select packages. installation/equipment requirements: Free Standard Professional Installation only. Certain equipment is leased and must be returned to DISH upon cancellation or unreturned equipment fees apply. Upfront and additional monthly fees may apply. Recording hours vary; 2000 hours based on SD programming. Equipment comparison based on equipment available from major TV providers as of 5/22/13. Misc: Offers available for new and qualified former customers, and subject to terms of applicable Promotional and Residential Customer agreements. State reimbursement charges may apply. Additional restrictions and taxes may apply. offers end 9/18/13. HBO®, Cinemax® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME is a registered trademark of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS Company. STARZ and related channels and service marks are property of Starz Entertainment, LLC. Visa® gift card must be requested through your DISH Representative at time of purchase. $25 Visa® gift card requires activation and $2.95 shipping and handling fee. You will receive a claim voucher within 3-4 weeks and the voucher must be returned within 30 days. Your Visa® gift card will arrive in approximately 6-8 weeks. InfinityDISH charges a one-time $49.95 non-refundable processing fee. Indiana C.P.D. Reg. No. T.S. 10-1006. *Certain restrictions apply. Based on the availability in your area.

HIGH-SPEEDINTERNET NOW AVAILABLE

$14 95*STARTING AT

(subject to availability)

99a monthfor 12 mo.

$19Promotional prices start at

(Reg. price $29.99 | mo.)(Not eligible for Hopper)

FREE FREEFREE

Monthly DVR and receiver fees apply.

watch 4 Hd programs on different TVs simultaneously

WHolE-HoME Hd dVR UPGRadE

Available with qualifying packages.

HoPPER

All offers require 24-month commitment and credit qualification.

HdFor Life®

Available with qualifying packages.

for 3 mo. Offer subject to change based on premium channel availability.

Existing Farm Bureau Bank equipment loans are excluded from this offer. Normal credit criteria does apply.* Rate disclosed as Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and based on exceptional credit. Some restrictions may apply based upon the make and model of equipment offered as collateral. Up to 90% financing for new and 85% for used equipment. Loans subject to credit approval. Rates are accurate as of 07/01/2013. Rates and financing are limited to farm equipment model years 2003 or newer and are subject to change without notice. A down payment may be required for new or used equipment purchases. Financial information required for loan requests over $50,000. Commercial vehicles and trailers may be subject to an additional documentation fee. Farm Bureau Bank does not provide equity or cash-out financing on commercial vehicles and equipment. Banking services provided by Farm Bureau Bank, FSB. Farm Bureau, FB, and the FB National Logo are registered service marks owned by, and used by Farm Bureau Bank FSB under license from, the American Farm Bureau Federation.

Grow Your Agribusiness with Farm Bureau BankTake advantage of your Mississippi Farm Bureau membership with special rates, flexible terms, and payment plans up to seven full years. Hurry, this limited-time offer expires December 31, 2013. Finance or refinance your farm equipment today!

To apply, or for more information, contact your local Farm Bureau agent or visit farmbureaubank.com

NEW FARM EQUIPMENT LOANSNowas low as 3.49

24-MONTH TERM

% APR*

0713_MSFarmCountry_ELwRate.indd 1 7/3/2013 11:06:34 AM

Documents

Mississipi Farm Country September/October 2013