Callicott Is New Director

Callicott is new director

Special annual meeting coverage inside

Inside

Extension celebrates Co-op feed mills Hale Springs Inn centennial in meet strict reopens in

2010 – Page 5 standards – Page 14 Rogersville – Page 30

Medina, OH Medina,

Permit #207 Permit January 2010 Volume 51, Number 1

P A I D I A P US POSTAGE US

PRST STD PRST Visit our official Web site atourcoop.com . 2009-10 Co-op Scholarship Recipients MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY

Tennessee Farmers Cooperative is proud to salute the recipients of the 2009-10 Co-op Scholar- ships. Lindon Harris Andrianna Jones Jessica Lovvorn Daniel Messick Monica Wilmore Lawrenceburg Shelbyville Woodbury Shelbyville Pleasant Shade These young people represent the best and the brightest in the future of Tennessee agriculture, and many of the recipients TENNESSEE TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY are already making valu- able contributions to our cooperative system as employees of local Co-ops and even as full-time farmers.

Each year since 1995, TFC has offered 32 scholar- ships — each worth $1,500 — to qualified agriculture students at four state uni- versities: UT Knoxville, UT James Craighead Jackson Ewton Anna Smith Christopher Laura Vaught Martin, Tennessee Tech, Celina Morristown Pikeville Tucker Lascassas and Middle Tennessee Gallatin State University. UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE MARTIN

Neil Bringle Jeremy Fair Laura Campbell Diana Maddox Chris Martin Julie Ozburn Munford Newbern Spring Hill Covington Fayetteville Nolensville

UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE KNOXVILLE

Alex Ailshie Evan Bartley Richard Blake Brooke Carter Jenny Davis Kyley Dickson Columbia Shelbyville Strawberry Riceville Clarksville Jamestown Plains

Megan Gilbert Candace Hartsfield Will Hightower Caleb James Nikki Land Sara Mitchell Morristown Lawrenceburg Lebanon Lebanon Mohawk Jackson

Vanessa Moorehead Dylan Moser Elora Madisonville For more information, see us at ourcoop.com.

2 January 2010 contentsJanuary 2010 Cover Story

Callicott is new TFC director 20 Clint Callicott, a lifelong farmer and former state representative, will serve a three- year term on Tennessee Farmers Cooperative’s board of directors. The Humphreys County resident was ratified by delegates at TFC’s annual meeting on Nov. 30 in Nashville to be one of three directors representing Zone 2 on the nine-member board.

ON THE COVER: New TFC director Clint Callicott raises row crops, alfalfa, and cattle on his 450-acre farm near Only. He has been a Co-op director on the local level for both Williamson and Humphreys Farmers Cooperatives. — Photos by Mark E. Johnson News and features Extension celebrates centennial in 2010 5 Far-reaching University of Tennessee program has been vital to the state’s farmers and other residents for 100 years.

Rest assured 14 All TFC feed mills continue to meet — and exceed — “Safe Feed/Safe Food” requirements.

Special annual meeting coverage 17 “Disappointing” year doesn’t hinder TFC’s growth strategy — page 18 Dairyman Dougherty is new chairman; row-cropper Rice to serve as vice chair — page 21 Total donations to 4-H, FFA from Case knife sales reach $150,000 — page 22 Thank you, Mr. Mayo — page 22 Pogue wins Cooperative Spirit Award — page 23 Newcomer Humphreys joins five previous Pinnacle, Peak Performer winners — page 24 Exhibit gives glimpse into Cooperator archives — page 27

Return to splendor 30 Closed for a decade, Rogersville’s historic Hale Springs Inn has reopened for lodging and dining. TenneScene In every issue

4 As I Was Saying Photos found after more than 30 years become a tribute to a Co-op pioneer. 4 Our Country Churches Oak Dale Union Church in Greene County. 9 New at Co-op Learn about five new products available at your hometown store. 10 Neighborly Advice Efficient fertilizer use, home pest control, pet nutrition, and feed safety. 32 What’s cookin’? Oatmeal isn’t just for breakfast anymore. 34 Every Farmer Has A Story

A thick blanket of snow is a stark contrast to the bright red paint on this Rutherford County barn and Meet Ricky Cunningham, who balances posts of a barbed-wire fence. — Photo by Allison Morgan a call to preach with a love for farming.

January 2010 3 As I Was Saying

Photo flub gives new chance to recognize Co-op Published by Tennessee Farmers Cooperative in the interest of better 1 1 1 onsidering that it’s 31 ⁄2 years old, the 8 ⁄2-by-5 ⁄2-inch Co-op memo has farming through cooperation and yellowed very little, and the message is as crisp as it was when I received improved technology, and to connect the Co-op community through Cit in 1978 from Edgar C. (Ed) Wilson, who at the time was Tennessee shared experiences, common values, Farmers Cooperative’s crops fieldman in Upper East Tennessee. Ed had dated and rural heritage. the memo 7-13-78, and on its “Subject” line he had written “Unicoi Tomatoes.” Editor: Allison Morgan From the time I became editor of the Tennessee Cooperator in November [email protected] 1972, Ed was a reliable, trusted source of story ideas — from crops-related Assistant Editor: Mark E. Johnson articles about some of the state’s best farmers to human-interest features about [email protected] fascinating people and places in the beautiful East Tennessee area where he was Communications Specialist: Chris Villines Jerry Kirk [email protected] born and raised. Contributing Editor: Jerry Kirk Contributing Editor Thus, his 1978 memo message to me: “These 3 pictures were made on July [email protected] 5th — a new field of tomatoes, just set, adjoining the Nolichucky River by Carl Jones and Buckley Advertising Manager: Mack Barrett Church of Unicoi County. They harvested a strawberry crop in the field this spring, then reworked [email protected] Art Director: Bob Gillespie the field and set tomatoes for the late market.” [email protected] He ended his note with a single simple request: “Please return these [pictures] to me if you do Graphic Designer: Shane Read not need them.” [email protected] Having the photos in hand today means Editorial Assistant: Polly Campbell [email protected] that I didn’t return them to Ed as he asked The Tennessee Cooperator is distributed me to do more than three decades ago. And free to patrons of member Co-ops. Since now has come the sad and unexpected news each Co-op maintains its own mailing list, that my trusted friend died Dec. 13 at age 95 requests for subscriptions must be made through the local Co-op. When at the home he and his late wife, Jerry, loved reporting an address change, please so much in Knoxville. Ed’s vintage memo include the mailing label from a past and the three pictures were discovered as issue and send to the following address: members of the Tennessee Cooperator staff Tennessee Cooperator searched for materials to include in an ex- Tennessee Farmers Cooperative P.O. Box 3003 hibit commemorating the Cooperator’s 50th LaVergne, TN 37086 A 1978 photograph by Ed Wilson showcases the beauty of a valley anniversary. (See related story on page 27.) Phone: (615) 793-8339 in Unicoi County where tomatoes have been planted to replace a When I became editor of the Cooperator, E-mail: [email protected] spring strawberry crop. I relied heavily on the expertise and support Guest Subscriptions: I received from Ed and other Co-op field personnel in helping put together stories that were both Guest subscriptions are available for $12.95 per year by sending a check beneficial and enjoyable for readers. Wherever he went in his territory, Ed, an accomplished photog- or money order to Tennessee Farmers rapher, always had his camera with him. When he visited a farm, he’d snap photos and make notes Cooperative at the above address. to send along to me in case I wanted to “make a Cooperator story”out of it. TFC’s Web site: From Day 1, I cherished the time I spent with Ed, who knew so many people and about so many www.ourcoop.com things but seldom talked about himself. For example, it was years before I learned that he was the TFC Board of Directors: first manager of TFC’s Tenco Fertilizer Plant in East Tennessee, a position he held for 16 years. Chairman — Lowry “Whitey” Dougherty, Construction on the plant began in 1951 and was completed in ‘52. “It was thrilling to come to a Madisonville, Zone 3 company that had just been formed and to help build it,” he said later. Vice Chairman — Larry Rice, Helping build this cooperative system is something people like Ed Wilson have been doing since Covington, Zone 1 Larry Paul Harris, Wildersville, Zone 1 1945. Ed retired from TFC on Dec. 31, 1979, and at the time of his death was among the oldest Amos Huey, Kenton, Zone 1 living Co-op pioneers in Tennessee. While I will forever regret failing to return the pictures he sent Clint Callicott, Only, Zone 2 me more than three decades ago, I have a chance to once again acknowledge the contributions made Donald Jernigan, Christiana, Zone 2 by Ed and others who spent their lives championing the cooperative cause in Tennessee. Kenneth Nixon, Carthage, Zone 2 And, as a final tribute, we’re honored to publish one of Ed’s “Unicoi Tomatoes” photos. Wayne Brown, Chuckey, Zone 3 George Smartt, McMinnville, Zone 3 Chief Executive Officer — Bart Krisle

Our Country Churches NOTICE: This publication is for informational purposes only. Tennessee Farmers Cooperative, its affiliates, Oak Dale Union Church in Greene County subsidiaries, and member Co-ops are not responsible for any damages or claims that may result from a reader’s use of this Oak Dale Union Church in eastern information, including but not limited to actual, punitive, consequential, or economic Greene County was established in damages. Tennessee Farmers Cooperative 1881. The congregation assembled makes no warranties or representations, either express or implied, including warranties of in a county school building for many merchantability or fitness of any product/ years. When the building was no material for a particular purpose. Each article, document, advertisement, or other longer needed for a school, it was pur- information is provided “AS IS” and without chased from the county and a church warranty of any kind. Tennessee Farmers Cooperative reserves the right to alter, was built by community members who correct, or otherwise change any part or donated funds and labor. The building portion of this publication, including articles and advertisements, without detriment to was later renovated completely. The Tennessee Farmers Cooperative, its affiliates, Rev. Gene Wilcox is the current pastor. subsidiaries, or member cooperatives. 180th in a series of photographs to show where our rural Co-op friends worship — Submitted by James Cannon ®

4 January 2010 UT Extension celebrates centennial in 2010 Far-reaching program has been vital to Tennessee for 100 years By Patricia McDaniels, University many advancements over the of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture last century in rural lifestyles, health, education, and agricul- nvision mules pulling ture were inspired and encour- plows, farmers harvest- aged by the direct, hands-on Eing crops by hand, and approach of the state’s county whole families sleeping on Extension agents. Calendar straw mats in homes with no year 2010 marks 100 years electricity and no running of University of Tennessee water. Such was life in rural Extension and state 4-H — a Tennessee in 1910. Those who century of bringing research- call these the “good ol’ days” based information to Tennessee likely did not participate in the farmers, families, and youth to backbreaking work that was the enhance their quality of life. norm for daily activities, nor “UT Extension has trans- do they remember foregoing formed Tennessee, and we school to bring in the harvest or intend to use our centennial As part of the University of Tennessee Extension’s youth development programs, reading by candlelight once the year to recognize our past ac- boys’ Corn Clubs were first organized in Tennessee in 1910. By the end of that year, sun went down. complishments and to dedicate 12 counties had formed boys’ clubs in cooperation with school superintendents. Contrast those images with our future efforts to continued This photo features the 1916 Madison County Corn Club champion team. an evening in 2010 when service to the state,” says Dr. When Extension was born in how to improve their income family members are likely to Tim Cross, dean of UT Exten- the first decade of the 20th cen- through increased yields and be watching TV, playing video sion. “We are planning cel- tury, Americans were thirsting better management of their re- games, or surfing the ‘Net. ebrations at the club, county, for knowledge. Farm families sources. Farm wives also craved Times have certainly changed. and state levels all year long. in particular were demand- There’s little doubt that Everyone’s invited!” ing practical knowledge about (See Extension, page 6) News briefs Pork producer activities planned Jan. 19-20 in Murfreesboro The annual Tennessee Pork Producers Association (TPPA) Convention is planned for Tuesday, Jan. 19, at the Doubletree Hotel on Old Fort Parkway in Murfreesboro. The business meeting begins at 2 p.m. with an update from the National Pork Board and the election of officers for the 2010 Executive Committee. The popular “Taste of Elegance” event begins at 5:30 p.m, with Nashville area restaurant chefs competing with their newly created pork entrees. On Wednesday, Jan. 20, the Tennessee Junior Livestock Mar- ket Hog Show will feature more than 380 entries at the Middle Tennessee State University livestock arena. An industry trade show will also be held throughout the day. For more information, call the TPPA at 615-274-6533 or e- mail [email protected]. UT Senior Bull Test Sale set Jan. 21 More than 60 performance-tested bulls will be sold Thursday, Jan. 21, during the Senior Bull Test Sale at the Middle Tennes- see Research and Education Center at Spring Hill. The public auction features 64 Angus bulls that recently passed the center’s 84-day gain test and breeding soundness ex- amination. The group averaged a gain of 4.38 pounds per day. Prospective buyers can bid on the bulls at the Spring Hill station or at two video sites located at the Knoxville Livestock Center and the 4-H Camp in Greeneville. For more information, contact David Kirkpatrick at 865-974-4294 or [email protected] or visit online at middletennessee.tennessee.edu/research.

January 2010 5 ment to employ local farmer Sid located in each county. Across increase yields of corn from Extension S. Bond as a part-time agricul- the state UT Extension employs 25 bushels per acre during the (continued from page 5) tural agent. Bond was paid $75 159 agricultural and natural re- early part of last century to an per month for nine months of source or resource development average of 139 bushels per acre more information regarding safe the year. That was Oct. 2, 1911. professionals, 209 family and in 2009. And, over the last 100 food processing and prepara- One week later, Shelby County consumer science profession- years, local 4-H Clubs and their tion as well as the health and employed John E. Stansell as als, and 167 youth development adult volunteers have served welfare of their children. The the first full-time Extension professionals. They remain more than 4 million youth. federal government responded agent at the whopping salary of jointly funded by federal, state, “Last year UT Extension had in 1914 with the passage of the $1,500 per year. and local governments, and the more than 4.8 million contacts Smith-Lever Act establishing the with Tennessee citizens, and Agricultural Extension Service the overall economic impact in collaboration with the state of our activities returned more land grant colleges. The new than $343 million,” said Cross. system of adult education and “Imagine the impact that Exten- youth development was to be sion and 4-H have had on the funded with federal, state and citizens of the state over the last county funds. The funds were 100 years.” to provide at least one trained In response to needs ex- youth development programs In 2010, Extension remains teacher or demonstrator in each pressed by farm wives, Virginia rely heavily on local volunteers very relevant in the lives of county in the nation. P. Moore was appointed to help — 5,489 in 2008. An additional Tennesseans, says Cross, who Tennessee was ahead of the organize Canning Clubs for girls staff of 177 experts provide invites those who are not cur- federal government by four on Dec. 12, 1910, and the first educational services to agents, rently participating in one of years. home demonstration agents producers, consumers, and the organization’s programs to The state’s first county ag- (now called family and consum- communities throughout the find out just what they have to ricultural agent was appointed er science agents) were appoint- state. offer. Dec. 1, 1910. The name of ed during the canning season of As one of the real success “Just contact your local the first agent seems to be lost 1911. These ladies were Myra stories from this movement, county office to see program to history, but Almon Sims in Tandy, Lawrence County; Mag- Tennessee 4-H has remained a offerings and learn how we can the 1939 work “The History of gie Lansden, Madison County; national leader throughout its be of service,” he said. “Yes, Extension Work in Tennessee: Katherine Vaughan, Coffee first century. Last year’s mem- we still offer livestock and land Twenty Five Years of Service to County; Elizabeth Lauder- bership totaled 301,958 youth resource management, but our Rural Life” recorded that date bach, Hamilton County; Lizzie participating in activities that educational services extend to and writes that by the end of Reagan, McMinn County; and range from traditional livestock life skills as well. Our more ur- February 1911, six farmers were Melissa Byrd, Bradley County. and crop management to more ban clientele are often surprised employed as county agents three Most received just $50 per modern projects that involve to learn our programs range days each week, nine months month plus traveling expenses. Web site development and GPS from gardening to diets, debt to of the year. They were G. B. On July 1, 1914, all the tracking. In addition to school- estate management.” Rhodes in Tipton County; R. early workers were reorganized based and local activities, three As for the future, Cross says L. Moore, Dyer County; J. B. under the federal Smith-Lever 4-H camps throughout the state he fully believes that a century Skinner, Obion County; L. M. Act as part of the UT Division offer youth summer camping from now UT Extension’s mis- McCollum, Chester County; O. of Extension. This included 20 experiences and school-based sion of providing research-based W. Erwin, McNairy County; and county agents, 22 home dem- outdoor science educational education to the citizens of Ten- A. R. Bridger, Crockett County. onstration agents, and eight programs. nessee will be just as relevant as Eight months later, Madison additional staff and faculty. Throughout 2010, UT Exten- it is today. County would be the first in the Today, in cooperation with sion and 4-H will celebrate the “Yesterday we worked the state to officially appropriate all 95 county governments, UT organizations’ first century of land with mules and plows, and funds for cooperative Extension Extension continues the tradi- accomplishments. For example, we taught young people proper work — $337.50 to match a like tion of direct service to citizens Extension education and better animal husbandry,” says Cross. amount from the federal govern- with agents and professionals farming practices have helped “Today we use precision agricul-

LEFT: In 1929, the Warren County state champion poultry judging team was composed of the Safley brothers, from left, Marcus, Baxter, and Jesse. These youth represented Tennessee in competition at National 4-H Congress. ABOVE: Grace Templeton of Union High School was a Weakley County canning club member in 1916. These canning clubs were among the first projects of the home demonstration agents (now called family and consumer science agents) hired by Extension to provide rural women with information about safe food processing and preparation as well as the health and welfare of their children.

6 January 2010 ture tools with sound conservation practices, and our farmers’ yields are on average five times greater than they were a century ago. Our youth are learning computer-based communication skills, and we teach families how to improve their health and be better parents. Who knows what the next 100 years will bring?” Throughout 2010, each county will sponsor local activities that offer individuals a chance to reconnect with Exten- sion and their own family his- From Extension’s earliest days, crop research and demonstrations, like this one in 1926 at the West Tennessee Research and tory. Dr. Dena Wise, a professor Education Center in Jackson, have helped fulfill the program’s mission to advance agriculture and educate ennesseeT farmers. of family and consumer sci- ences and chair of the statewide Extension Centennial History Committee, invites interested individuals to get in touch with her at [email protected] or 865- 974-8198 or contact their local Extension office. “Buried in family albums and unpublished memoirs are countless examples of Exten- sion’s connection to the history of each county and the state,” she said. “If you’d like to share a treasured family photo or story, please give us a call.” Extension has ties to TFC The University of Ten- nessee Extension, with the help of the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation, was instrumental in the creation of the Co-op system in Ten- nessee. Al Jerdan, an Extension marketing specialist, believed strongly in the federated cooperative system and preached those principles to the farmers who began to show an intense interest in forming their own farm supply organization in the early 1940s. Jerdan served on a committee formed in 1944 to study similar cooperatives in other states and spear- headed the movement to establish Tennessee Farmers Cooperative in 1945. After retiring from Exten- sion in 1956, Jerdan served as TFC’s educational director until his death in 1973. He continues to be known as “the father of Co-op in Tennessee.”

January 2010 7 Agritourism conference joins Horticultural Expo The fifth annual Tennessee Growers Association, Tennes- for Profitable Agriculture. “And “Explode Sales” and “Develop Agritourism Cultivating Farm see Viticultural and Oenological by being held concurrently with a Whizbang Staff!” The event Revenue Conference, scheduled Society, Tennessee Farm Wine- the Tennessee Horticultural will also feature a large trade for Thursday through Saturday, growers Association, and The Expo, agritourism operators will show, a variety of breakout Jan. 28-30, at the Nashville American Wine Society. also have access to sessions on educational sessions, and farm Airport Marriott, will be held in “This year’s conference offers fruit and vegetable production, tours to several area agritourism conjunction with the Tennessee agritourism operators another issues related to grapes and operations. Horticultural Expo. In its sec- prime opportunity for profes- wine, flower production, farm- For hotel, registration, and ond year of existence, the Expo sional development through ers markets, and more.” agenda information, visit online brings together the Tennessee educational sessions and net- The keynote speaker will be at www.ththe.com or call Farmers Market Association, working,” says Megan Bruch, best-selling author and business Megan Bruch at 931-486-2777. Tennessee Fruit and Vegetable marketing specialist with the consultant Bob Negen, who will Register by Jan. 5 to receive the Association, Tennessee Flower University of Tennessee Center share ideas to help participants early registration rate of $100. Davidson to lead state Farm Service Agency Eugene Davidson of Adams has been named Tennessee state executive director for the U.S. Department of Agricul- ture’s Farm Service Agency. “Eugene Davidson has a solid understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our rural communities,” said U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “He will help build on this administration’s efforts to rebuild and revitalize rural America.” Davidson is a founding member of Davidson Grain and Equipment, a pioneer in modern conservation practices that protect the environment and preserve local soil. Davidson’s farm also is responsible for establishing a cattle watering system that prevented pollution of groundwater in Tennessee and Kentucky. Before he co- founded Davidson Grain and Equipment, Davidson and his cousin owned Davidson Farms, a row-crop operation. Davidson was elected to the Tennessee House of Repre- sentatives in 1975 and served there until 2006. During his service in the House, Davidson was chairman of the Agricul- ture Committee for four years, chaired the Education Commit- tee for 18 years, and served as majority leader for one term. The Farm Service Agency works to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural Americans through efforts such as income support, disaster assistance, conservation programs, and operating loans.

8 January 2010 New at Co-op ®

Bonide Bedbug Killer Incidents of bedbug infestations have increased over the #900588 last three years in #900587 the U.S. Bonide Bedbug Killer pro- Co-op Rational-Lyx vides excellent, 12% Equine Supplement long-lasting control of bedbugs. This 12-percent protein supplement is designed for horses on It also kills lice, all types of rations to provide supplemental nutrients when fed fleas, ticks, along with grain and roughage. Available in a 200-pound tub clothes moths, (#900587) or a 33.33-pound bucket (#900588). carpet beetles, and pantry pests and is great for travelers who want to protect their lug- Co-op gage from insect “pick-up” at hotels. This odorless and Rational-Lyx non-staining liquid kills adult and 15% Sheep nymph bedbugs on contact for up Supplement to four weeks. This 15-percent protein supplement is #144921 — quart designed for ewes before breeding and lamb- #144922 — gallon ing and for all sheep on medium- to low-quality pasture, hay, or forage. #900592 — 33.33-pound bucket

Co-op Rational-Lyx 18% Goat Supplement This 18-percent protein supplement is formulated for does before breeding and kidding and for all goats on medium- to low-quality pasture, hay, or forage. #900589 — 33.33-pound bucket

Corid 20% Soluble Powder Labeled as an aid in the preven- tion and treatment of coccidio- sis (bloody scours) in beef and dairy calves caused by Eimeria bovis and E. zurnii, Corid effectively breaks the coc- cidia life cycle before a clinical outbreak of bloody scours can occur. This soluble powder formulation can be used as a true solution in drinking water or as a drench to help ensure it will reach the intestine, even in animals with reduced feed intake or low gastrointestinal motility. #6540 — 10-ounce pouch

January 2010 9 Neighborly Advice Fertilizer Nutrient stewardship helps protect farms, environment t’s been agricultural resources in the fu- developed the “4R Nutrient rate technology, crop-scouting, said ture. To put it simply, all plant Stewardship” program to en- record-keeping and nutrient Ithat and animal agriculture depends courage some basic principles management planning will help people who on productive soils. But be- that are essential to improve determine the right rate of fertil- have plenty cause of the many interactions farm profitability, provide sus- izer to apply. to eat have of soil with food production, tainable agriculture for future • Right time: Make nutrients lots of the environment, and economic generations, and protect our available when the crop needs problems development, an integrated environment. The four “Rs” them. Nutrients are used most and people approach to soil and nutrient referred to in this program are: efficiently when their avail- Alan Sparkman who have management is required. • Right product: Match the ability is coordinated with crop TFC Agronomy nothing to Farmers are direct stewards fertilizer source and product demand. Application timing, Marketing Manager eat have of the soil. They care for a to crop and soil properties. Be controlled release technologies, only one. large portion of our land and aware of nutrient interactions stabilizers, inhibitors, and prod- As global demand for food and have always been the best envi- and balance nitrogen, phos- uct choice all influence nutrient fiber increases with a growing ronmentalists. Farmers and the phorus, potassium, and other availability. world population, this state- fertilizer industry must partner nutrients according to soil tests • Right place: Place and ment has never been truer. with others to develop win-win and crop needs. Balanced fer- keep nutrients where crops can In 2010, another 77 mil- solutions that improve crop tilization is one of the keys to in- use them. Application method lion people will be added to the yields while assuring the most creasing nutrient use efficiency. is critical for efficient fertilizer world population. In the next efficient use of soil nutrients. • Right rate: Match the use. Crop, cropping system, and 30 years, the total number of In the end, we are all stewards amount of fertilizer applied to soil properties will determine people on the planet is expected of soils and need to work to- the crop needs. Too much fertil- the most appropriate applica- to grow from today’s 6.8 billion gether to implement actions to izer leads to leaching and other tion method. Conservation to more than 9 billion. That’s a maintain or increase soil fertil- losses to the environment, and tillage, buffer strips, cover crops, lot of extra groceries needed for ity in a sustainable manner. too little results in lower yields and irrigation management are all those hungry people. The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) and crop quality. Realistic yield practices that help keep fertil- Soils are at the heart of and the International Plant goals, soil-testing, tissue-testing, izer nutrients where they were maintaining sustainable Nutrition Institute (IPNI) have applicator calibration, variable- placed and accessible to crops.

10 January 2010 Neighborly Advice Neighborly Advice Home Pest Control Nutrient stewardship helps protect farms, environment Solutions for controlling rodents in your home ats and 1. They eat food and human behavior and needs. continual feeding on the bait. mice contaminate it with urine and There are two main solutions This slow process is usually Rcan be excrement. to solve rodent problems: traps necessary to prevent rodents a problem 2. They gnaw into materials and poison baits. from becoming bait-shy. just about such as paper, books, wood, Traps are often preferred Your Co-op offers a variety anywhere or upholstery and use them as over poison baits for several of poison baits and can help you live, nest material. They also gnaw reasons. Poison baits, care- you choose the right one for whether in plastic, cinder blocks, soft met- lessly used, can harm children, your home pest control needs. Mark Morton the city or in als such as lead and aluminum, pets, and non-target animals. There are several different the country. and wiring, which may cause a Sick rodents may also escape to anticoagulants, but the mode of HLS Product They infest Manager fire hazard. areas between walls or un- action is the same. old build- 3. Rats occasionally bite der floors where they die and Allow me to dispel a couple ings and crowded, unsanitary people and may kill small ani- decompose, causing odor and of myths about rat baits: There areas in urban environments, mals. insect problems. There are two are NO poison baits that kill but they can also be a problem 4. They — or the parasites main types of traps: snap traps rodents and cause them not to even in newer homes and clean they carry such as fleas, mites, and glue traps. Both types are stink, and there is NO guaran- conditions. Since these rodents and worms — spread numerous very effective in taking care of tee that rodents will leave your eat practically anything humans diseases. rodent problems and are avail- home in search of water after eat, they get plenty of food 5. Rats can damage orna- able at your local Co-op. consuming poison bait. from home gardens, fruit or nut mental plants by burrowing When mechanical means When using either baits or trees, and even parts of some among the roots or feeding on will not give the desired results, traps, they need to be placed ornamental shrubs and flowers. new growth or twigs. They also baiting is a viable option. Poi- in areas that are frequented by Garbage disposals also attract eat some garden vegetables son baits are mainly composed rodents such as along the base rats into household and street such as corn and squash. of compounds called antico- of walls, under cabinets, and in sewer lines. And, of course, 6. Rats and mice are agulants. Their mode of action attic crawl spaces. rats and mice have long been a socially unacceptable. These involves reducing the ability of While colder weather tends problem on farms where food is rodents have been a problem blood to clot so that exposed to drive rodents indoors, they plentiful and convenient nesting for centuries, chiefly because animals bleed internally and can be a nuisance all year long. sites are both numerous and they have an incredible ability die. Anticoagulants are cumu- By keeping the traps and/or hard to eliminate. to survive and are so difficult lative poisons and act relatively baits available year-round, you There are six major problems to eliminate. In addition, they slowly; rodents typically die will reduce the number of pests caused by rats and mice: are extremely compatible with several days after initial and and keep them at bay.

January 2010 11 Neighborly Advice Pet Nutrition Positive changes ‘spruce up’ Action Ration line ver Action Ration Complete and Just as is true for any spe- diet, which makes the concept time, Bites and Bones are formu- cies, proper nutrition leads of “just right nutrition” more Osome lated for maintenance-type of to a happy, healthy pet and is important than ever. things in dogs while the Action Ration the cornerstone on which a Sometimes change can be our lives Performance is designed with competent immune system is frightening, but when a trusted often need the high-energy, sporting dog built. Without the necessary product becomes even bet- “sprucing in mind. These formulations vitamins and minerals, the im- ter, the changes are exciting. up.” We go along with the Co-op phi- mune system cannot function Think of the changes to the Ac- Dr. Kevin Cox remodel and losophy of “just right nutri- properly. This is only achieved tion Ration line this way. New redecorate tion.” from a properly formulated look. Same old friend. TFC Staff Veterinarian our homes, keep our closets and cabinets organized through spring cleaning, put new tires on our vehicles, and change the oil to keep the engine safe. Even with these improvements, they’re still our same homes and vehicles — just a little better. That is exactly what we have done with Co-op’s Action Ration Dog Food line. We have done some “sprucing up.” The great benefits that have always been associated with the popular Action Ration brand are still there. Pet owners still have the same choices in product to meet the needs of different types of dogs, from maintenance to performance. The same nutritional formulas are still part of the tried-and-true Action Ration name, and the same trust can still be placed in the ingredients used to make these feeds. Natural antioxidants vitamin A, D, and E are included in all three products in the Action Ration family. Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are included in the Action Ration Performance to help with improved immune system function as well as healthy skin and hair coat. What has changed will make our Action Ration line even more appealing. The packaging has been updated with colorful new bags that are now in a convenient 40-pound size. Extra flavoring to increase palatability and extra fat have been added to Action Ration Complete as well. A new product has been added to the Action Ration line — Bites and Bones. This formula provides the same great nutrition as Action Ra- tion Complete but has enticing bone shapes and nuggets.

12 January 2010 Neighborly Advice Neighborly Advice Feed Safety

Safe Feed/Safe Food program offers producers, consumers peace of mind

he If you are unfamiliar with the part of a team of indi- Ameri- the Safe Feed/Safe Food Cer- viduals at each plant. A well- Tcan tification Program, you may trained group of employees Feed In- wonder why so many facilities who complement each other’s dustry are certified and what certifi- efforts is a hallmark of each Association cation entails. The Safe Feed/ certified facility. ® launched the Safe Food program provides For livestock producers, Safe Feed/ companies and facilities with a there are several good reasons Anne Keller Safe Food relatively straight-forward chal- to consider purchasing feed Certification lenge: If a facility proves to an from Safe Feed/Safe Food- The program also continues AFIA Director of Program five certified plants such as those to receive positive public com- Communications outside, third-party auditor that years ago to it meets or exceeds a series of operated by TFC. Here are just ments from officials associ- foster the use of the highest strict, safety-focused standards a few: ated with the Food and Drug safety standards by feed mills set forth in the program, the • Greater peace of mind — Administration (FDA). Among and other facilities involved in plant will earn the right to be In these challenging economic them is Dr. Dan McChesney, the manufacture of livestock certified as a program partici- times, it helps to know that the director of the office of sur- feed, pet food, and related pant. With this achievement feed you provide to the live- veillance in the FDA’s Center ingredients. Today, there are comes the ability to promote stock in your care is produced for Veterinary Medicine, who nearly 400 facilities represent- to customers and others that at a facility that takes safety spoke favorably of the pro- ing 90 companies in the U.S. the facility is a Safe Feed/Safe seriously. The trust you can gram’s concepts back in the and Canada certified by this Food-certified plant. place in these feeds is one way spring. He said the Safe Feed/ program — including all three Joining the exclusive group to lessen the uncertainty we are Safe Food initiative “surely ad- feed mills operated by Tennes- of Safe Feed/Safe Food facili- all facing these days. dresses a lot of the attributes of see Farmers Cooperative. ties takes time and effort on • Consistent, safe purchases a proper third-party certifica- — Along with greater peace of tion program.” And Dr. Ste- mind, every bag of feed that phen Sundlof, a former director comes out of a certified facility of the Center for Veterinary has been produced using the Medicine, has said the program same high standards. The safe is “ahead of the curve.” production of feed is the No. 1 The existing program is issue at Safe Feed/Safe Food- running so well that an inter- certified facilities, but quality national version of the program tends to accompany safety. will launch in the near future. • High-performing livestock In early 2009, AFIA formed — Feeding consistent rations an alliance with the Euro- that provide livestock precisely pean Union Feed Additives what they need gives you a bet- and Premixtures Association ter opportunity to have consis- (FEFANA), to accomplish this tent, high-performing livestock. mutually beneficial objective. Once you decide to purchase Since then, auditors affiliated your feed from certified fa- with the Facility Certification cilities, you can focus on other Institute have received training variables in your operation. from FEFANA representatives While Safe Feed/Safe Food about how to conduct audits certifications are ultimately of U.S. facilities to meet the for the benefit of producers European Commission’s Feed and consumers, the program Hygiene Rule. Additional de- also has industry and govern- tails are being finalized, but the ment recognition and support. International Safe Feed/Safe A high point for the program Food Certification Program is came last year with the en- expected to launch in the near dorsement by the Pork Safety future with easier importing Committee of the National and exporting of products as Pork Board. This show of sup- one of the clear anticipated port for the program by a key benefits. livestock industry committee Keep an eye on the program is most welcome and validates Web site at www.safefeedsafe the benefits the program has food.org to learn when plants to offer participants and their receive certification and review customers. other news and information.

January 2010 13 Rest assured TFC feed mills continue to meet — and exceed — ‘Safe Feed/Safe Food’ requirements

Each bag of feed manufactured at a TFC feed mill is assigned a lot number to allow for traceability.

LaVergne Feed Mill Quality Assurance specialist Les Gray labels samples to be sent to Sure-Tech Lab — a diagnostic facility in Indianapolis — to be tested for protein, fat, and fiber.

ABOVE: A sample from every incoming load of corn is inspected under a black light to reveal possible aflatoxin molds. Corn earmarked for equine feeds is checked for fumonisin molds as well. LEFT: Combined, LaVergne Feed Mill Manager Bobby By Mark E. Johnson Brown, left, and Les Gray have more than 50 years of experience in feed manufacturing. he livestock feeds man- is producing are safe as well. ing; employee training; facility ing curve” for both mill staff ufactured at Tennessee That’s the ‘Safe Food’ part of the planning and control; manu- and truck drivers delivering raw TFarmers Cooperative’s designation.” facturing and processing; use ingredients like corn, cottonseed feed mills are as safe as they Established in 2004, the “Safe of monitoring devices; building, and soybean meal, wheat midds, can possibly be. Feed/Safe Food” Certification equipment, and grounds; ingre- and distiller’s grain. Just ask the American Feed Program is a voluntary, third- dient purchasing and controls; “For example, we have set up Industry Association (AFIA). party-certified initiative designed identification and traceability; a list of [restricted protein] in- Since 2007, AFIA, the world’s for feed mills and feed- and and controls of non-conforming gredients, and a supplier is now largest organization devoted ingredient-related facilities in the products. required to give us documented exclusively to representing the U.S. and Canada. The program “In many cases, these guide- proof of what he hauled last,” animal feed industry and its establishes comprehensive lines exceed FDA [Food and explains Gray. “These things suppliers, has deemed TFC feed standards of excellence that go Drug Administration] require- might include a variety of animal mills worthy of its prestigious beyond existing regulations to ments,” says Brown, noting that proteins and contaminates like “Safe Feed/Safe Food” designa- maximize food and feed safety. the mills must also pass biennial potash and ammonium chloride, tion. The mills passed the latest Only six facilities in Tennessee FDA inspections and annual FCI and even rock, coal, and glass. If biennial inspections in March. have qualified for the designa- (Facility Certification Institute) [the previous load] was a re- “Our customers can be as- tion — TFC’s mills at LaVergne, inspections. “By complying with stricted protein or contaminate, sured that the feed they are pro- Jackson, and Rockford (Tenco) ‘Safe Feed/Safe Food,’ we know the driver has to provide us with viding to their animals is safe,” are the only feed manufacturing we’re going that extra mile to en- a valid ticket verifying that the says Les Gray, quality assurance mills among that number. sure our customers receive safe trailer was properly cleaned prior specialist at TFC’s LaVergne According to TFC LaVergne products for their animals.” to loading our ingredients. If we Feed Mill. “Consequently, the Feed Mill Manager Bobby Gray adds that one of the ma- suspect that wasn’t the case, we end user can feel confident from Brown, the “Safe Feed/Safe jor components of the program can call the washing company a feed perspective that the meat Food” program provides guide- — ingredient purchasing and to verify his claim. If we’re not and dairy products he or she lines in the areas of record-keep- control — has required a “learn- satisfied, we refuse the load.”

14 January 2010 In the initial months of the check it out,” he says. “Then, audit, the quality assurance can be challenging, Brown program, an occasional un- they will inspect all possible specialists at each of TFC’s says, the resulting feed quality informed driver might try to places where it could’ve origi- three mills inspect one another’s and benefit to Co-op members prevent rejections by providing nated. Usually, it comes in on facilities regularly using the is well worth the effort. falsified wash-out tickets and a hauler’s truck. We actually same paperwork employed by “Employees at all three feed other paperwork, says Gray. found a horseshoe on a magnet the third-party auditor. mills take a lot of pride in their “In most cases, it was just a one time! I still have it in my “This is a self-audit between facility, and it gives us satisfac- matter of the driver not being office.” the three plants,” he says. tion when a visitor tells us how familiar with our regulations, Brown says “Safe Feed/Safe “Whatever we are doing at clean and organized our plants but most everybody knows what Food” compliance is determined LaVergne, we’re doing at the are,” says Brown. “Know- we require now,” he says. “We annually by a third-party com- other TFC feed mill locations. ing that all our facilities are seldom have to turn away a pany that performs an external We all have the same proce- ‘Safe Feed/Safe Food’-certified load anymore.” audit on TFC’s procedures. The dures and GMPs [good manu- provides us with the assurance Even when a legitimate load audit will include everything facturing practices].” that our customers are receiv- is delivered, “Safe Feed/Safe from pest control to traceability While adhering to the strin- ing some of the safest animal Food” protocol requires a strin- documentation to biosecurity gent procedures required by the feed products available any- gent inspection of the contents, measures. In addition to this “Safe Feed/Safe Food” program where.” Gray points out. At all three TFC mills, employees probe both trailers and rail car loads from the top and take samples from the bottom to check for unfavorable particulates that have sifted down during travel. While these mechanical inspections are taking place, corn samples are checked under a black light for aflatoxin molds. If any is found, a liquid chemical test is used to further to determine the level of aflatoxin. Corn earmarked for equine feeds is tested for both aflatoxin and fumonisin molds as a matter of course. “These are extra steps we take that exceed FDA regulations,” Gray explains. “I think this gives the consumer some added peace of mind.” After a load of ingredients is received, the product is run across a series of magnets to remove any metallic materials. Employees often find nuts, bolts, and washers on the magnets, says Gray, and must determine if they originated in the mill or elsewhere. “If it looks like it might have come out of some of our equipment, the employee will take it to the supervisor to

TFC manufacturing facilities carry the prestigious “Safe Feed/Safe Food” seal. TFC’s are the only feed mills in Tennessee with the designation.

January 2010 15 FROM LEFT: In a contest held by Tennessee Farmers Cooperative’s Home, Lawn, Specialty Department, a clever display of hunting products designed by Montgomery Farmers Cooperative employees Josh Briggs and Keith Earhart tied for first place with a display built at Mid-South Farmers Cooperative’s Bolivar store by employee J.D. Sims. Montgomery, Mid-South design top hunting displays Montgomery Farmers Co- operative in Clarksville and Mid-South Farmers Coop- erative in Bolivar tied for first place among 31 member Co-op stores that participated in a recent hunting display contest conducted by Tennessee Farm- ers Cooperative’s Home, Lawn, Specialty Department. Maury Farmers Cooperative in Colum- bia placed second. The contest was designed to help promote the large selec- tion of hunting-related items offered by Co-op. When sales of hunting items were compared to last year, Montgomery Farmers emerged with the larg- 1 est increase — 5 ⁄2 times more than 2008 figures. Thompson to lead UT centers The University of Tennes- see Institute of Agriculture has named Kevin Thompson as the new director of the Middle Ten- nessee Research and Education Center in Spring Hill and the Dairy Research and Education Center in Lewisburg. He will assume his new role in January, replacing retiring director Dr. Dennis Onks. Thompson most recently served as director of producer genetics for Tennessee Livestock Producers, where he facilitated the Tennessee Beef Alliance and established Tennessee’s largest bull-leasing program. As director, Thompson will be responsible for managing both facilities, including super- vising the execution of research plans developed by UT faculty.

16 January 2010 January 2010 17 2009 Annual Meeting ‘Disappointing’ year doesn’t hinder TFC’s growth strategy Strong balance sheet, innovative programs and products help cooperative system make positive plans for the future

By Allison Morgan, Photos by fewer gross margin dollars than sales and profit- Mark E. Johnson and Chris Villines the previous year. The Fuel ability, and we will and Home, Lawn, Specialty continue to control hat a difference a (HLS) departments were the expenses and make year makes. only exceptions. smart decisions Bart Krisle, Tennessee Farmers Cooperative’s chief That’s how Ten- With such a minimal net that will position us executive officer, reports on TFC’s fiscal year 2009 W operating results. A combination of economic nessee Farmers Cooperative profit, TFC was unable to pay for success in the and market factors led to what Krisle described as Chief Executive Officer Bart patronage to its members this future. We don’t “disappointing” earnings of only $147,000. Krisle summed up TFC’s 2009 year, Krisle added, and the have to shy away from opportu- “Even when times get tough, financial performance during board also decided not to retire nities that present themselves cooperatives keep doing what his report to the membership any equity. to add profitable growth and we do best,” Krisle said. “We at the 64th annual meeting on On a positive note, he em- value to your membership in work together for our members, Monday, Nov. 30, at the Gay- phasized the strength in TFC’s Tennessee Farmers.” share our successes, meet our lord Opryland Resort and Con- balance sheet, which shows The annual meeting theme challenges head on, and support vention Center in Nashville. the cooperative’s net worth at of “Cooperative America” our communities every way pos- More than 800 Co-op direc- more than four times what is was appropriate for a year sible. Your cooperative is work- tors, managers, employees, and owed in term debt. That posi- when many corporations were ing hard to grow your business, guests attending the meeting tion, he explained, will allow economically and ethically strengthen the system, and plan heard Krisle explain the stag- TFC to take advantage of op- challenged, Krisle pointed out. for a future that we believe will gering contrast between the last portunities to grow and expand Even with a disappointing net bring better days.” two fiscal years, with a perfect operations. income, TFC’s federated coop- In his address, TFC Board storm of economic and mar- “We remain in a position erative structure, strong values, Chairman Bill Mayo of Ten- ket conditions converging to of strength and growth,” said and commitment to its mem- nessee Ridge reinforced the shift 2008’s record-shattering Krisle, who is completing his bers sheltered the system from distinct differences between earnings into what the CEO fourth year as CEO. “We have many of the troubles that other “cooperative America” and described as a “disappointing” a strategy in place to grow companies have faced. “corporate America.” bottom line of only $147,000 for 2009. “This time last year, I was reporting record earnings, well beyond our expectations,” said Krisle. “We didn’t lose money in fiscal year 2009, but we came close — way too close for com- fort. Needless to say, it was a unique year, one I’m glad to be putting behind us.” TFC’s sales for fiscal year 2009, which ended July 31, were $562 million — $151 million less than 2008. Gross margins of $31.4 million were under last year by $35.2 million, mainly due to a significant write-down of inventory values in fertilizer, feed ingredients, and glyphosate. Feed and hardware sales were also sluggish, Krisle said, a direct correlation to the state’s dwindling beef cattle numbers and depressed dairy industry. Plus, the weak economy in general affected all segments of the business with nearly every operating depart- Tennessee FFA president James Flatt recites the organization’s creed at the annual meeting’s first business session as TFC directors, from left, Larry Paul Harris, Larry Rice, Amos Huey, Donald Jernigan, Kenneth Nixon, and Lowry “Whitey” Dougherty ment finishing fiscal 2009 with look on. Earlier, Flatt and Andrew Hunt, State 4-H Council vice president, presented the colors and led the pledge of allegiance.

18 January 2010 2009 Annual Meeting

“The excesses of Wall Street • All three TFC and the questionable business feed mills passed tactics of some of our country’s the very difficult more prestigious and promi- American Feed nent industries have resulted in Industry Association’s Safe a national black eye, and every Feed/Safe Food inspections last one of us is paying the bill,” spring. These certifications are said Mayo, one of three direc- proof of the efforts and pride of tors representing Zone 2. “But TFC employees and the confi- aren’t we blessed, as farmers, to dence that producers can place be associated with an organiza- in the quality and safety of the tion that has not only weath- products TFC manufactures in ered a storm that has toppled these mills. hundreds of other businesses • TFC completed its first this past year but has, in fact, full year under a supply agree- made a little money, sought out ment with Land O’Lakes opportunities, and expanded its cooperative to sell Croplan area of operations?” Genetics corn, soybean, wheat, In reflecting on his seven and cotton seed as the Co-op’s years as a TFC director, Mayo proprietary brand. Croplan told the annual meeting audi- continues to make headway in ence that he was most proud the marketplace, and many of Country and bluegrass artist Melonie Cannon, accompanied here by guitarist of being involved in the board’s Stephen Mougin, performs during the Nov. 30 membership banquet. Melonie was the hybrids and varieties are decision to pursue growth for also joined by band members Tim Dishman, bass; Sim Daley, banjo; Randy topping yield trials and showing the cooperative system. Specifi- Kohrs, dobro; and Chris Harris, mandolin. outstanding performance. cally, Mayo mentioned the past • Allied Seed, a forage year’s acquisition of Agriliance production and distribution locations in Kentucky, Missouri, company owned in part by and Arkansas that are now be- TFC, reached $52 million in ing operated by TFC under its sales and returned $1.2 million ADI Agronomy subsidiary. TFC in patronage to our system in expects these new businesses fiscal year 2009. Allied, which to add some $30 million in markets the Farm Science sales for the system. Mayo also Genetics and Turf Science praised the Stockdale’s retail Genetics brands, continues to initiative for adding growth and grow every year and introduce diversity to TFC through its two innovative new forage products. stores in Hixson and Covington, • TFC’s participation in which experienced significant the Universal Crop Protec- growth over the past year even Buford Byers, left, manager of TFC’s Metal Fabrication Plant in LaVergne, talks tion Alliance (UCPA), which is as many similar retail operations with Tri-State Growers Manager Terry Snyder about the new products the plant has part of Universal Cooperatives, struggled with the down econo- designed and manufactured as part of the company’s Hardware Department. continues to allow the Co-op my. A third Stockdale’s store is in its first year worked with 17 sion — gave updates from their system to receive better pricing planned for 2010. member Co-ops and all ADI respective areas of the busi- and supply situations due to “It should give you confi- locations to convert their ac- ness. Included in their reports the buying power of this group. dence in your cooperative that counts receivable functions to were these and other positive By joining forces with other during this — one of the most CFS. activities that brightened up an cooperatives like Growmark, challenging 12-month periods “As a brand-new segment of otherwise dismal fiscal year: Southern States, and Land in recent memory for American business, we really didn’t ex- • The HLS Department O’Lakes, UCPA now represents business — TFC has not curled pect CFS to be profitable in its reported earnings above $1 some 30 percent of the U.S. up into a corner but rather has first year due to start-up costs,” million for the fifth consecu- market share in crop protection boldly expanded its borders, said Mayo. “But, in reality, tive year and set a record net products. opportunities, and influence,” CFS actually returned dollars income of $1.33 million. The • TFC’s Hardware Depart- said Mayo. “Growing and to TFC’s bottom line in its first largest sales increases came ment and Metal Fabrication becoming more diverse is a year and removed the burden in lawn and garden items, pet Plant in LaVergne have been vital strategy and a necessary of bill-collecting from partici- supplies, and consumer hard- developing new products that component to the continued pating Co-ops, freeing them ware products. help meet the needs of Co-op’s success of our Co-op system.” up to concentrate on their own • A newly redesigned line of farmer-owners. In the last fis- He pointed to Co-op Finan- successful growth.” Co-op Cattle Minerals was in- cal year, TFC introduced the cial Solutions (CFS) as another Following the CEO and troduced with updated formu- Super Heavy-Duty Mineral success story that has positive chairman’s messages, TFC’s lations and packaging. These Feeder, Bulldog Wire Stretcher, implications for TFC as well as three operations officers — products provide appropriate and an overhead feed bin, each the participating member Bruce Baird, Consumer Prod- supplementation for cattle met with favorable response Co-ops. This new retail finance ucts Division; Pat Whidden, during specific stages of their from customers. and credit department began Animal Nutrition Division; and production cycle in conjunc- operating in August 2008 and Ray Damron, Ag Input Divi- tion with local forages. (See Meeting, page 20)

January 2010 19 2009 Annual Meeting

Meeting Strategic thinking and planning are critical for today’s (continued from page 19) Co-op leaders, Cook insisted as he outlined the questions that Each of the product divi- directors and managers should sions, along with TFC service be asking themselves about departments and interregional their cooperative business. cooperative affiliates, were rep- “Strategy is the concept of resented in a trade show that how you’re going to achieve started annual meeting activi- your objectives,” explained ties on Sunday, Nov. 29. The Cook. “It’s centralized so that centerpiece of the room was a everyone knows the concept, comprehensive exhibit celebrat- it’s integrated through all ing 50 years of the Tennessee aspects of the business, and Cooperator, which was first it’s externally oriented — tak- published in May 1959. ing into account the behavior In other annual meeting of your rivals. Within this activities, Co-op directors and strategy, there are five areas in Outgoing Chairman of the Board Bill Mayo makes a point during his address to the membership at the Nov. 30 business meeting. Mayo’s speech focused on the managers had an opportunity to which to ask questions: What board’s continued policy of pursuing profitable growth opportunities. learn more about their roles as arena are we in or where will Co-op leaders in an educational we be active? How will we get values and can-do attitude were session led by Dr. Mike Cook there? How do we differenti- once again welcomed warmly of the University of Missouri ate ourselves? What speed and by the ladies’ brunch audience. before the business session sequence will we use? And how The meeting concluded began Monday morning. The will we measure the impact?” Monday night with the mem- expert in agribusinesses and As Cook finished his pre- bership banquet, during which cooperatives led the group in a sentation, the spouses of a $25,000 donation — proceeds decision-making exercise based Co-op directors and manag- from sales of Co-op’s 2009 Case on recent trends and observa- ers were being treated to a 4-H/FFA pocketknife — was tions in cooperatives and the humorous, uplifting, and presented to leaders of the two agricultural industry. entertaining program by Jane state youth organizations. Al- “What we’re seeing is that Herlong at the annual ladies’ len Pogue, retired TFC Crops co-ops are narrowing their brunch. This South Carolina Division assistant manager, was scope, concentrating on what farm-girl-turned-beauty-queen also honored with the James they do well, while at the same used money she earned from B. Walker Cooperative Spirit time crossing county and state working in her father’s tomato Award. The banquet’s featured lines to expand their geographic fields to attend college and entertainment was bluegrass area,” said Cook. “They’re then represented her state in artist Melonie Cannon, a West Chad Coley, right, a management handling more volume with the Miss America Pageant and Tennessee native who, along trainee at Valley Farmers Cooperative in the same amount of inputs and became an award-winning with her band, performed a Athens, hands out meeting literature investing in communication professional singer, recording variety of poignant and upbeat to Phillip Ottinger, a director of Greene Farmers Cooperative. technologies and knowledge- artist, and author. songs, including one aptly titled able workers. Most coopera- Herlong had entertained “Tennessee Road.” chairman, praising his contribu- tives that are surviving or doing the Co-op crowd before as After the band’s performance, tions to the Co-op system and well are concentrating on being the featured speaker at the TFC Zone 2 director Kenneth giving him a plaque in appre- very good at a few things that 1995 annual meeting business Nixon made a special presenta- ciation of his service. Mayo’s their members want and need.” luncheon, and her Southern tion to Mayo as outgoing board seven-year term as director ended with the annual meeting, and Clint Callicott of Only was elected earlier in the day to fill that position. “If you heard Bill Mayo de- liver his chairman’s address this morning, you know of the passion and allegiance he has for our cooperative system,” said Nixon. “Bill, like each of us on the TFC Board, always looks at the bigger, system-wide picture when it comes to making decisions that affect our overall success and achievements. He is LEFT: Ladies’ brunch speaker Jane Herlong, right, signs a copy of her book, “From Bare Feet to High Heels,” for Teresa to be commended for his years Grimmett, wife of Humphreys Farmers Cooperative director Wayne Grimmett. RIGHT: As TFC regional manager George of meritorious and outstanding Evans and other look on, University of Missouri professor and cooperative business expert Dr. Mike Cook speaks during an educational session. Cook led attendees through a decision-making exercise and spoke on current trends in cooperatives. service to our Co-op cause.”

20 January 2010 2009 Annual Meeting Humphreys County’s Callicott to represent Zone 2 on TFC board Humphreys County farmer for nine years and Humphrey on keeping quiet for a while, Clint Callicott of Only has been Farmers Cooperative’s board listening and learning about the elected to a three-year term on for six, he was elected to four business.” the nine-member Tennessee terms to the Tennessee House of A 1971 graduate of the Uni- Farmers Cooperative Board of Representative from District 61, versity of Tennessee at Martin, Directors, replacing outgoing serving from 1988 to 1996. He Callicott and his future wife Chairman Bill Mayo of Houston was a Williamson County com- were members of the school’s Clint Callicott, here with his wife, County, whose term expired. missioner from 1982 to 1986 rodeo team — she as a barrel Carolyn, was elected by TFC delegates to represent Zone 2 on the Callicott, 61, was elected and was county executive there racer and he as a roper. Upon cooperative’s board. Formerly a state Nov. 30 during TFC’s annual from 1998 to 2002. Callicott earning his degree in general representative and Williamson County executive, the Humphreys County meeting in Nashville. He was has also served as a director of agriculture, Callicott traded farmer is no stranger to public service. chosen by Zone 2 delegates and the Agricultural Stabilization and rodeo for training hunting dogs, his election was ratified by the Conservation Service and adviser which, he says, still provides a “But I still had cows and put membership. for University of Tennessee Ag- level of competition. But he up hay during that time,” says “I have always believed ricultural Extension Service and counts duck-hunting as his the farmer, who currently has an strongly in the Co-op system,” is a member of the Tennessee favorite past time. 80-head cow/calf herd and grows said Callicott after the meeting. Cattlemen’s Association. “It’s something I’ve done 400 acres of corn, soybeans, and “I was raised in this system, and “I think everybody should since I can remember and look wheat in addition to 25 acres of because I am a shareholder, I serve in some public capacity,” forward to each year,” he says. alfalfa hay. want to be involved. I’m hon- said Callicott, who lives on a “Hunting is an activity that Claude and Clayton — both ored to be given this opportunity, 450-acre row-crop and beef I’ve been able to enjoy with my of whom are high school teach- and I intend to do anything I can cattle farm with his wife of 38 sons, Claude and Clayton, for a ers — farm part time as well. to make Co-op better.” years, Carolyn. “I don’t have long time. It’s a family thing.” Claude and wife Lee Ann have Callicott is no stranger to many talents, but I have always Callicott has farmed con- two children, Sarah Beth and serving Co-ops and the public been good with animals and tinuously since college and only Ella, and live nearby in Only. as an elected official. Besides people and willing to try my best missed planting a “full-fledged” Clayton and wife Molly live in serving on Williamson Farmers when asked to serve in some crop during his four years as Lawrence County with their Cooperative’s board of directors way. On the TFC board, I plan Williamson County executive. children, Nolan and Miriam. Dairyman Dougherty is new chairman; row-cropper Rice to serve as vice chair Lowry “Whitey” Dougherty has held the posts of president all the changes in agriculture,” of Madisonville is the 2010 and vice president of the board. said Rice. “I think 2010 will be a chairman of Tennessee Farmers He also is a past chairman of the pivotal year for TFC, and we will Cooperative’s board of directors, board of Southeast Select Sires, continue to see success with new and Larry Rice of Covington is Inc., one of the 10 members areas of growth as well as re- now vice chair. The directors — of Select Sires, Inc., a bovine energizing some more traditional Dougherty serving Zone 3 and genetics cooperative. He’s a segments of business. We have Rice Zone 1 — were elected at a member of the American Dairy a really good group of people on reorganizational session Nov. 30 Association as well. the board and in management, at Gaylord Opryland Resort and The Doughertys have two and I have full confidence that Lowry “Whitey” Dougherty, a Convention Center in Nashville. grown children, Anna Woodcock we’ll reach our goals.” Madisonville dairyman, serves as “There is no real sense of ‘nor- and Brice Dougherty. Anna, a Rice is a 20-year member chairman of the TFC board for 2010. malcy’ in agriculture anymore,” speech pathologist with Meigs of Tipton Farmers Coopera- said Dougherty, who owns a 150- County Schools, and husband tive, where he has been on the head Holstein dairy operation Matt live in Niota. Brice is a board for more than seven years with his wife of 34 years, Sherry chemical engineer for Eastman — three as president — and “Pete.” “These are changing and Chemical Company and lives in was recently elected to another challenging times. But I firmly Kingsport with his wife, Beth. term. He currently serves on believe that [the board] is on the Rice, who moves into the the Tipton County Farm Bureau right path, and under my leader- vice chairman position vacated Board of Directors, of which he ship, we will remain committed by Dougherty, joined the TFC previously spent seven years as to seeking profitable growth op- board in 2004. He raises more president, and is a member of portunities that will benefit our than 4,000 acres of wheat, corn, the Tennessee Cotton Support membership.” soybeans, and cotton with his Committee and an alternate rep- Dougherty was first elected 37-year-old son, Justin, on the resentative on the Cotton Board, to the TFC board in 2003 and family farm in Covington. the oversight and administrative is a 26-year member of Valley “As an organization, we have arm of the Cotton Research and Covington row-crop farmer Larry Rice is Farmers Cooperative where he to stay ahead of the curve with Promotion Program. now vice chairman of TFC’s board.

January 2010 21 2009 Annual Meeting Continuing to climb Total donations to 4-H, FFA from Co-op’s commemorative Case knife sales reach $150,000 Story and photo by Chris Villines tions at the local, district, and state levels.” ith the recent Joining Huffine for the pre- presentation of sentation were officers of the W$25,000 to state Co-op regional managers’ groups: 4-H and FFA organizations, Mark Pettit, Jefferson Farmers Tennessee Farmers Cooperative Cooperative; Andrew Baisley, has eclipsed the $150,000 mark Cumberland Farmers Coop- in total donations raised from erative; Larry Dale, Williamson Officers of Co-op’s regional manager associations along with representatives of Case sales of Co-op’s popular 4-H/FFA Farmers Cooperative; and David Cutlery and Tennessee Farmers Cooperative present a total of $25,000 to state 4-H and FFA through the sale of Co-op’s 2009 4-H/FFA knife. From left are David Drewry, commemorative Case pocket- Drewry, Carroll Farmers Coop- manager of Carroll Farmers Co-op; Maury Ford, Case Cutlery; Mark Pettit, Jefferson knife series. erative, along with Paul Arnette, Farmers Co-op; Paul Arnette, TFC Home, Lawn, Specialty product manager; Andrew The latest funds came from product manager with TFC’s Hunt, 4-H Council vice president; Larry Dale, Williamson Farmers Co-op; James Flatt, state FFA president; and Andrew Baisley, Cumberland Farmers Co-op. sales of the knife’s ninth edi- Home Lawn Specialty Depart- tion, released in fall 2009. Every ment, and Maury Ford with Case all have dreams and aspirations, Congress and Round-Up. These year since the program began in Cutlery. This is the ninth year of and through your support you activities equip them with the 2001, proceeds have been split the continued partnership with give Tennessee FFA members necessary skills and knowledge equally between 4-H and FFA, Case in this program. the ability to reach for their goals to build a successful future.” with each receiving $12,500 this Accepting the checks for their in life.” A perfect complement to pre- year. The checks were presented respective organizations were Hunt also expressed his ap- vious 4-H/FFA knives, the 2009 Nov. 30 at TFC’s annual mem- FFA State President James Flatt preciation on behalf of his fellow edition is a muskrat pattern that bership banquet in Nashville. of Lebanon and Tennessee 4-H 4-H members. features a chestnut bone jigged “Today’s youth represent the Council Vice President Andrew “On behalf of the 330,000 handle, the Co-op and Case lo- future of Tennessee agriculture, Hunt of Centerville. 4-H members from across Ten- gos printed on one blade and the and that’s why Co-op makes “Through the Tennessee nessee, I would like to express banner “Support 4-H and FFA” them priority No. 1,” said Joe Farmers Cooperative 4-H and my sincere gratitude for the on the other, and an elegantly Huffine, manager of TFC’s FFA knife program, you help support of Tennessee Farmers engraved bolster with this year’s Member Services Department. Tennessee FFA members to Cooperative,” he said. “With date. No more of the limited- “Statewide, our most consistent strive for our mission of premier your support, 4-H provides op- edition knives will be produced, monetary and time support is leadership, personal growth, and portunities for young people to but some Co-ops may still have a given to FFA and 4-H organiza- career success,” said Flatt. “We participate in activities such as few in stock. Thank you, Mr. Mayo The fact that Bill Mayo lives and farms in a special place Fellow named Tennessee Ridge reflects the rural roots that have identi- Zone 2 di- fied a legion of dedicated leaders who have served so ably and rector Ken- effectively on Tennessee Farmers Cooperative’s board of directors. neth Nixon, Mr. Mayo, who was chairman of the TFC board this past year, in present- has joined the ranks of past directors whose names have been ing a plaque etched permanently in the annals of Co-op history in our state. of apprecia- The 2009 TFC annual meeting over which Mr. Mayo so capably tion to Mr. presided marked the end of his seven-year term on the board. He Mayo at was not eligible to be re-elected, and Clint Callicott of Hum- the annual Bill Mayo’s family was able to attend the banquet to hear and phreys County was elected as his replacement. meeting’s see him praised and honored by his Co-op family. From left are his grandsons, Joshua and Benjamin Miles; daughter When Mr. Mayo was elected to the board 2002, he said he was membership Melanie Miles and her husband, Oscar; granddaughter Chloe “very eager to get to work.” banquet, Miles; Bill and wife Janice; granddaughter MacKenzie Mayo; son Steve Mayo and wife Pam; grandson Matthew Mayo; and “I know well the value and the benefits of working together, commended granddaughter Melissa Mayo. — Photo by Mark E. Johnson and I’m looking forward to doing my part to assure that we meet the outgoing our goals and expectations,” he added. chairman “for the passion and allegiance he has for our coopera- Mr. Mayo certainly held true to his word. He proved to be tive system and for his commitment to help farmers get the most energetic and resourceful, and his personality, wit, and sense of from their Co-op affiliation.” humor added spice to the proceedings. Current Board Chairman Tennessee’s farmers and their Co-op system have benefitted Lowry “Whitey” Dougherty of Madisonville said 2009 showed Mr. from Mr. Mayo’s years of dedicated leadership and service. We Mayo to be an effective leader whose qualities “proved invalu- thank him for all his contributions and wish him and his family a able” as the board and TFC management worked together “in fac- wonderful new year filled with happiness and good times. ing some of our Co-op system’s most daunting challenges ever.” — Jerry Kirk

22 January 2010 2009 Annual Meeting Pogue wins Cooperative Spirit Award Fertilizer expert becomes 11th person to capture TFC’s top individual honor By Jerry Kirk before paying special tribute to two of his TFC former bosses — llen C. Pogue of the late W. H. Mitchell, manager Columbia, retired assis- of the Crops Division, and W. Atant manager of Tennes- E. Bailey, retired chief executive see Farmers Cooperative’s Crops officer. Division and longtime manager “Mr. Mitchell wasn’t just my of its Fertilizer Department, boss, he was my friend … my has captured the organization’s tutor,” Pogue said. “I can grant highest individual honor — the you that if Mr. Mitchell were James B. Walker Cooperative here he’d be proud to see me Spirit Award — for 2009. receive this award.” Pogue, 81, is the 11th person “Mr. Bailey was an encourager to win the award established in who had an open-door policy,” 1999 to honor “an individual the award recipient continued. whose contributions have had a “I always felt comfortable walk- positive and enduring impact on ing into his office, sitting down, Tennessee’s farmers, our state’s and talking to him about any agriculture, and our unique and subject. He was always willing highly successful cooperative to help me and encourage me. system.” I’ll always remember that.” Chief Executive Officer Bart Pogue also praised his wife of Krisle presented the award to 55 years, Mary, for the help and Pogue Nov. 30 at TFC’s Mem- encouragement she has pro- bership Banquet held during vided. “A great deal of whatever its 2009 annual meeting at the success I’ve had should go to her Joining Allen and Mary Pogue, center, at the membership banquet to celebrate with the 2009 Cooperative Spirit Award Winner, are, right, the couple’s nephew, Phil Gaylord Opryland Resort and credit,” he said. Sellers, and his wife, Cheryl, and, left, the Sellers’ children, Clara and James. Convention Center in Nashville. He also mentioned their son, “I remember that during the Kirk Pogue, and wife Pam, who Back home in Maury County of this nation’s premier fertil- first or second year I worked at live in Houston, Texas, but could following his military service, izer authorities. the Co-op, we were in a budget not attend the award presenta- Pogue enrolled at the local Co- When he retired from TFC meeting, and as Mr. Pogue stood tion. “There are two chairs lumbia Business College for an in 1993, Pogue and his wife up to talk, there was a definite at our table for Kirk and Pam education that helped prepare returned to their native Maury sense of pride in what he did and tonight,” Pogue said. “They are him for a career with the rela- County, moving into a new home also for the Co-op,” Krisle said. our pride and joy. We just wish tively new Tennessee Farmers they built on the spot where “He had a great deal of profes- our pride and joy would move Cooperative. He joined the Mary’s homeplace had stood. sionalism in the way he pre- closer to Tennessee.” TFC staff on Aug. 10, 1951, as On their 106-acre showplace sented himself, and the passion Joining the Pogues at the an auditor, working at the co- farm, Pogue raises beef cattle he had about his subject that day banquet were nephew and niece operative’s headquarters build- though he says he lets time and and about the Co-op has stuck Phil and Cheryl Sellers and their ing on Fogg Street in Nashville. circumstance determine just with me all these years.” children, Clara and James, of When TFC moved its head- how many he keeps. “I’m honored and humbled to Columbia. quarters offices to its new and “The older I get, the fewer receive this award,” Pogue told Allen Conner Pogue was growing LaVergne complex in head I have,” he said. the annual meeting audience born Nov. 22, 1928, to the the early 1950s, Pogue settled The Pogues are active mem- late Bernard and Carrie Saun- in as one of the real trailblazers bers of Beech Grove Church of ders Pogue, who had a general in providing quality fertilizer Christ where he is an elder and farming operation in the Maury products and services to Ten- teaches a Bible class. Experi- County community of Hamp- nessee’s farmers. Working first enced travelers who have toured shire. Pogue attended local as a billing clerk, he succeeded extensively abroad in the past, schools, going through eighth W. H. Mitchell as manager of the couple says their destinations grade at Stephens Elementary the LaVergne Fertilizer Plant, are closer to home these days. and graduating from Hampshire which was built in 1950 as “We take mostly day trips High in 1946. TFC’s first production facility. now,” Mary said. Eleven days after graduating In the early 1960s, Pogue Home, they say, is where they from high school, Pogue enlisted became manager of the Fertil- really want to be. And sure to for an 18-month Army stint that izer Department and was later find a place of prominence in In the early 1950s, Pogue was a included service in Korea. He promoted to assistant man- the Pogues’ antique-filled home “trailblazer” in providing quality fertilizer did not, however, serve in the ager of the Crops Division. is the plaque Allen was given as products and services to Tennessee this year’s winner of the James B. farmers. He retired from Tennessee Korean War. “I got in and out Throughout his Co-op career, Farmers Cooperative in 1993. before the war,” he says. he established himself as one Walker Cooperative Spirit Award.

January 2010 23 2009 Annual Meeting Staying the course

Newcomer Humphreys joins five previous Pinnacle, Peak Performer winners

Humphreys Farmers Cooperative, with its main store (pictured) in Waverly and branch stores in Centerville and Erin, was recognized with its first-ever Peak Performer Award at Tennessee Farmers Cooperative’s 2009 Annual Meeting Nov. 30. The 64-year-old, 455-member Co-op has increased its sales by 120 percent over the last five years. By Chris Villines, Photos by Mark E. Johnson, Allison Morgan, and Chris Villines

ix member cooperatives — including five Spast winners — earned prestigious Pinnacle and Peak Performer Awards at Tennessee Farmers Cooperative’s 2009 annual meeting. The awards were handed out during a special LEFT: Randy Hite, a 30-year veteran of the Co-op system, has been the manager winners’ breakfast Nov. 30 at of Humphreys Farmers Co-op since 1994. ABOVE: Accepting the Peak Performer Gaylord Opryland Resort and Award for Humphreys Farmers were, from left, directors Tommy Burkett, Greg Davis, Eric Mayberry, and Jerry Beasley, Hite, directors Wayne Grimmett and Lee Convention Center in Nashville. Rushton, and Board President Damon Brown. Taking home Pinnacle Awards were Coffee Farmers Coopera- challenging year,” said Jim Coffee Farmers Cooperative system does to help the farm- tive, Macon Trousdale Farmers McWherter, TFC customer rela- Coffee Farmers Co-op, in its ers,” Young says. “That’s why Cooperative, and Obion Farmers tions officer, who presided over 62nd year of operation, has been service is so important to Cooperative. For Coffee, it was the breakfast. “Congratulations honored five years in a row — us. Coffee County is full of an unprecedented fourth straight on your service-minded ap- four Pinnacle Awards and a Peak good people, and our Co-op is year to receive the honor, and proach and for striving for excel- Performer in 2005. blessed with good employees Obion has now won back-to- lence in all areas of business.” and customers.” back Pinnacle Awards. Macon The honorees were selected Coffee County Beef cattle, dairy, and row Trousdale is also no stranger to by using a formula that allowed l crops are mainstays in the coun- this award, having earned it in every member cooperative, ty, and two-thirds of the Co-op’s 2002, 2005, and 2006. regardless of size, to compete. Manager Sammy Young says business comes from these areas. Named Peak Performer Award Criteria for the Peak Performer that year after year he and his The Co-op offers farmers such winners were first-time recipient Award were the percentage of team in Manchester run an ef- services as fertilizer application, Humphreys Farmers Coopera- net worth growth, rate of sales fective, efficient Co-op without fuel and feed delivery, truck and tive along with Jefferson Farmers growth, the ratio of earnings to sacrificing quality in the process. tractor tire service, and on-site Cooperative and Weakley Farm- permanent assets, and the per- Young is in his 41st year at the farm equipment repair. ers Cooperative. This was Jef- cent of purchases these Co-ops Co-op, and few Co-ops have as ferson’s third consecutive year to made from TFC to arrive at a many long-tenured employees. Macon Trousdale Farmers claim this award and the fourth final score that shows both value That kind of experience and Cooperative time in the last five years that to members and dedication to expertise has in part contributed Pinnacle Award recipient Ma- Weakley has been recognized. the Co-op system. These fac- to the Co-op’s 29-percent net con Trousdale Farmers Coopera- “Working together as a team, tors — plus the ratio of equity to worth increase and 54-percent tive is in the midst of a transition you’ve helped your respec- permanent assets and amount sales increase over the last five with longtime Manager Reid tive Co-ops stay the course of working capital — were used years. The Co-op’s sales for fis- Brown’s pending retirement after and maintain solid community to determine this year’s Pinnacle cal year 2008 were $13 million. 22 successful years at the helm support through what was a Awards. “I believe in what the Co-op of the 1,400-member Co-op.

24 January 2010 2009 Annual Meeting

As has been his custom, Brown or Pinnacle award, and Harris deflects any praise associated attributes the Co-op’s success with his tenure to what he says to balancing the “old-fashioned” is the No. 1 combination for the way of doing business with stay- Co-op’s success — employees ing on top of trends and technol- and customers. ogies in the agricultural industry. That mindset worked to the tune l Macon Countyl of $14.2 million in sales for fiscal Trousdale County year 2008. The 73-year-old Co-op has ABOVE: In 2008, Obion County ranked first in Tennessee in corn acreage, “We have great employees four locations — Union City, second in soybeans, and fifth in wheat. and loyal customers,” he says in Kenton, Obion, and Troy — and RIGHT: Longtime Obion Farmers reference to the main store in multiple crops services, which Manager Freemon Harris stays true to traditional Co-op values while keeping Lafayette and the branch loca- are essential to meet the needs abreast of the latest technologies. tion in Hartsville managed by of the county’s farmers. For the Ronnie Givens. “You can’t make past five years, Obion has regis- it without those two things.” tered a net worth increase of 25 Brown has a capable replace- percent while increasing its sales ment in Andy Shrum, who says by 54 percent. he will look to continue Macon l Trousdale’s run over the last five Obion County years of a 24-percent increase in net worth and a 31-percent increase in sales. With agronomy still the With Macon County ranking Co-op’s top priority, services like second in the state in tobacco seed treatments and high-tech production in 2008, a large por- equipment purchases prove the Accepting the Pinnacle Award for Obion Farmers were, from left, Board President tion of the 60-year-old Co-op’s Co-op’s commitment to its row- Carl Wayne Hammond and directors David Wisener, Jason Crabtree, Paul Albright, Daniel Huey, Robert McDavid, and Lynn Barnes. business is still tied to tobacco. crop farmers. But Harris says the While tobacco acreage has secret to Obion’s success is sim- for the Co-op. Construction is points to one key reason Hum- declined somewhat in recent ply sticking to what the Co-op almost complete on a new Erin phreys has experienced a 39-per- years, Macon Trousdale has still does best: “being a cooperative store that is expected to be ready cent net worth increase and a been able to grow its business and serving the farmer.” in the next few months. Hum- tremendous 120-percent sales through a wide range of services phreys Manager Randy Hite says increase over the last five years, and innovative programs This Humphreys Farmers he believes the new store, with reaching a sales volume of $9.2 combination led to sales of $9.8 Cooperative 4,800 square feet of showroom million in 2008. million for the Co-op in 2008. Peak Performer Award win- space compared to 900 in the “We’re all about taking care of ner Humphreys Farmers Co-op current location, “will help fill people,” he says. “If you’re hon- Obion Farmers Cooperative joined the elite group for the first a niche that’s been missing in est with them, give them a fair News from the final Pinnacle time. This 455-member Co-op, Erin” and that “folks will ap- price on a good product, provide Award winner, Obion Farmers formed in 1945, serves three preciate what we are trying to do exceptional customer service, Cooperative, has recently cen- diverse beef cattle and row-crop there.” Jeff Roach manages the and think outside the box every tered around wishing a speedy farming counties — Humphreys, Erin location, while Jerry Barber once in a while, they’ll do busi- recovery to the Co-op’s longtime Hickman, and Houston — from heads up the Centerville store. ness with you.” manager, Freemon Harris, who its main store in Waverly and underwent successful heart branchs in Centerville and Erin. l Jefferson Farmers Cooperative bypass surgery and was recover- Operating the Hickman loca- Humphreys County The next Peak Performer, ing at home during the annual tion beginning in 2005 and the Jefferson Farmers Co-op, earned meeting. Houston location beginning in Hite, who’s been manager of this distinction for a third con- This is Obion’s fifth time to 2007 has been at the heart of Humphreys since 1994 and in receive either a Peak Performer a successful growth initiative the Co-op system for 30 years, (See Awards, page 26)

LEFT: Warehouse employees, from left, Robby Gregory, Chris Phillips, and Charles Hautie help load a customer’s feed order. CENTER: Manager Reid Brown, left, is retiring this month after 22 years of leading Macon Trousdale. He is being succeeded by Andy Shrum, right, a 4 1/2-year employee at the Co-op. RIGHT: Accepting the Pinnacle Award for Macon Trousdale Farmers were, from left, Board President Jackie Woodard, directors Kenny Martin, Ferrell Meador, Channing Swindle, Randall Carr, Stanley Miller, and Jackie Eller, incoming manager Andy Shrum, and retiring manager Reid Brown.

January 2010 25 2009 Annual Meeting

LEFT: Sammy Young has been managing Coffee Farmers Cooperative for 41 years. ABOVE: Coffee Farmers Co-op employee Wade Hall arranges a Accepting the Pinnacle Award for Coffee Farmers Cooperative were, from left, display of peanuts inside the attractive director Don Willis, Board President Mike England, director Billy Ring, assistant Manchester showroom. manager Jeremy Hood, and directors Earl Bryan, Joe Keele, and Robert Wiser. his 14th year as manager. “They 92 is also popular with rural life- Chandler says of the Co-op’s Awards are here to help customers and style customers and a burgeon- philosophy. “It’s a relationship (continued from page 25) farmer-members in any way they ing market of home gardeners. business, and our people do can. They are going to give their an outstanding job of building secutive year. Manager Mark best effort and do what is right to Weakley Farmers Cooperative a rapport with everyone who Pettit and his team of 21 employ- keep farmers in business.” This marked the fourth year comes through the door. ” ees take an aggressive customer That service extends beyond that Weakley Farmers Co-op, l service-driven approach in help- the walls of the Co-op to help ac- based in the Northwest Tennes- Weakley County ing the 65-year-old, 657-member commodate a farming base that, see town of Martin with branch- Co-op in Dandridge grow its net like many other East Tennessee es in Gleason and Greenfield, worth by 40 percent and sales by counties, is made up of people was honored for its excellence. This kind of mindset has 43 percent in the last five years. who hold down other full-time The 800-member Co-op boasted helped boost Weakley’s net Sales volume for the last fiscal jobs. Jefferson helps maximize sales of $20.9 million in 2008 worth by 38 percent and sales 52 year was at $8.6 million. these farmers’ busy lives by of- under the leadership of Man- percent over the last five years. fering such on-the-farm services ager Thomas Chandler. Bryan The Co-op has stayed true to its Jefferson County l as bulk fuel and feed delivery, Pickering in Gleason and Wayne roots since forming in 1945 and cattle equipment setup, fertilizer Hoke in Greenfield capably man- continues to provide its main spreading, and soil testing. age the branch locations. customer base, row-crop grow- “I have exceptional employees Though farming will always “We watch expenses, moni- ers, with a variety of products who give exceptional service,” be at the heart of the Co-op, its tor margins, and go above and and services — including a new says Pettit, who recently began high-profile location on Highway beyond to serve our customers,” precision ag program.

LEFT: Jefferson Farmers fuel truck driver Herbie Burchell fills up one of the tanks as he readies for another delivery. RIGHT: Pettit, visiting with customer Rodney King in the showroom, says the Co-op succeeds by having “good employees Accepting the Peak Performer Award for Jefferson Farmers were, from left, directors who have an attitude of serving others in Adam Martin, Bruce Frazier, and Terry Sellars, Manager Mark Pettit, director Charles the best way possible.” Crosby, Board President Jeff Underwood, and director Albert Blackburn.

ABOVE: Weakley Farmers Manager Thomas Chandler has kept the Co-op performing at a high level since succeeding George Evans four years ago. RIGHT: Weakley’s precision ag specialist, Emily Clark, provides tissue sampling Accepting the Peak Performer Award for Weakley Farmers were, from left, directors to help determine the nutrient status of Brian Garner, Gary Hall, and Scotty Ogg, Chandler, director Kenneth Moore, Board plants such as corn and soybeans. President Mike Hancock, and director Keith Fowler.

26 January 2010 2009 Annual Meeting Exhibit gives glimpse into Cooperator archives Publication’s 50-year history chronicled to complete anniversary celebration

he Tennessee Cooperator came alive at this year’s Tannual meeting with a comprehensive exhibit that honored the publication’s five decades as the voice of Co-op. A popular part of the meeting’s trade show, the booth was the culmination of the Coopera- tor’s golden anniversary obser- vance that began in May 2009, when the publication officially turned 50. A walk through the exhibit was a trip down memory lane for attendees who browsed A comprehensive exhibit, “50 Years of the Tennessee Cooperator,” was the centerpiece of the trade show that ran in displays of stories, ads, columns, conjunction with Tennessee Farmers Cooperative’s 2009 annual meeting. The museum-style booth featured a timeline of the and photographs ranging from publication’s milestones, illustrated its mission statement, and featured a slideshow of archived photographs. vintage to recent. community, and the agricultural The museum-style booth industry has been part of the featured a timeline of important Cooperator’s purpose from milestones and transformations the very start. In fulfilling this in the Cooperator’s 50-year his- part of its mission, the publica- tory, a revolving slideshow that tion’s pages have been filled flashed hundreds of photos from with articles about cooperative Tennessee Farmers Cooperative’s education, stories about member Communications Department Co-op collaborations, news and files, and a center section orga- information about TFC’s inter- nized around the publication’s regional affiliations, partnerships mission statement: “Published … with the Department of Agricul- in the interest of better farming ture and related organizations, through cooperation and im- and coverage of youth activities proved technology, and to connect such as 4-H and FFA. Sam and Tiffany Jones of Franklin Farmers Cooperative spend time browsing some the Co-op community through of the vintage photographs and stories displayed inside the Cooperator exhibit. shared experiences, common Improved technology values, and rural heritage.” Promoting the Co-op system of something bigger than them- Common values Each phrase of that mission is a primary purpose of the selves and keeps them connected The Cooperator has never was illustrated with stories and Cooperator, but even more im- to what is happening with their shied away from touting the photos from the Cooperator ar- portant is providing information Co-op neighbors just down the “common values” that make chives and accompanied by these that helps keep our farmer-own- road and across the state — from Tennessee such a special place. explanations: ers operating profitably. That’s grand openings of new facilities From featuring country churches why the publication has always and news about the TFC system to honoring members of the mili- Better farming stayed on top of the trends, tech- to stories about what fellow tary to recognizing the daylight- From its beginning in 1959, nology, and techniques that help Co-op members are doing. to-dark work ethic of our farm- the Cooperator has been pub- make farming more effective and ers, the Cooperator proudly lished “in the interest of better efficient. Whether it’s a new Shared experiences sheds light on the solid morals farming” with on-the-farm sto- Co-op product, innovative equip- It is our similarities, not our and steadfast beliefs that define ries, expert technical advice, and ment, cutting-edge inputs, or the differences, that draw people Tennessee agriculture. product advertisements to help latest agricultural practice, the together, and the Cooperator our farmers be more successful Cooperator is often the place seeks to spotlight these “shared Rural heritage and profitable in their endeavors. farmers read about them first. experiences.” Whether literally Agriculture has always been Today, the Cooperator contin- sharing some of grandmother’s built upon the activities and ex- ues on that well-traveled path Connect the Co-op community favorite recipes in “What’s periences of the generations that by promoting Co-op products, Fostering a feeling of “com- cookin’?” or featuring stories came before. The Cooperator programs, and services. munity” is one way communi- about festivals, parades, or farm pays tribute to agricultural tradi- cations has helped keep TFC field days, theCooperator is tions, highlights the ways of life Cooperation financially and structurally about celebrating what makes that have made us who we are, Encouraging cooperation sound. The Cooperator helps our rural communities all part of and does its best to keep “rural among members, customers, the members feel like they are part the larger Co-op family. heritage” alive.

January 2010 27 Cattlemen meet Jan. 21-23 The Tennessee Cattlemen’s ing cattle health, price outlook, association must have increased Association annual convention industry issues, marketing, and membership in 2009 by at least and trade show — the largest genetics. Cow Colleges will be 10 percent with a minimum of such gathering of cattle produc- offered for participants begin- five new members. ers in the state — will be held ning Friday morning and ending Preregistration for the Thursday through Saturday, Saturday at noon. convention is $25 and includes Jan. 21-23, in Murfreesboro. As part of a membership lunch both days. Registration Events begin on Thursday drive promotion, Co-op and at the door is $35. For more As a reward for membership with a cattle-grading demonstra- WW have teamed up to give information or to register, call recruitment, one lucky county tion at Middle Tennessee State away to a county cattlemen’s 615-896-2333 or e-mail info@ cattlemen’s association will win a WW Beef Master XL Chute. Co-op teamed University’s Tennessee Livestock association a Beef Master XL tncattle.org. Speaker informa- up with WW to donate the chute, which Center. This event, sponsored Chute during this year’s convention and a schedule are available will be given away during the upcoming Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association by Tennessee Farmers Coop- tion. To be eligible, a county online at www.tncattle.org. convention in Murfreesboro. erative, begins at 3 p.m. and features Tennessee Department of Agriculture graders who will show what they are looking for in cattle. Kay Johnson Smith, executive vice president of Wash- ington D.C.-based Animal Agri- culture Alliance who is speaking earlier in the day at the Animal Agriculture Summit (see story on page 29), will also address attendees at the demonstration. Admission is $10 and includes a steak supper provided by MT- SU’s Block and Bridle Club. The conference and trade show will begin Friday, Jan. 22, at the Embassy Suites Ho- tel and Conference Center in Murfreesboro. This year’s conference will feature nation- ally renowned speakers cover- Mid-South Stocker Conference set for Feb. 23-24 in Burns The fifth annual Mid-South Stocker Conference, hosted by the University of Kentucky Co- operative Extension and Univer- sity of Tennessee Extension, is set for Wednesday and Thurs- day, Feb. 23-24, at Montgomery Bell State Park in Burns. The conference will provide timely information on farm practices and health topics related to stocker cattle production and marketing. Wednes- day’s program begins at 9 a.m. with a continental breakfast and trade show followed by a variety of educational sessions. Registration is $95 per person or $150 per couple. After Feb. 15, registration is $125 per person. For more information, visit online at www.midsouth stocker.org or call UK’s Roy Burris at 270-365-7541 or UT’s Jim Neel at 865-974-7294.

28 January 2010 Animal agriculture, activism, topic of inaugural summit in Murfreesboro The future of animal agricul- aimed at providing livestock vice president of Washington Motes Hill, a Chattanooga- ture in Tennessee as it relates owners with information about D.C.-based Animal Agriculture based attorney who specializes to animal rights activism will be organizations like the Humane Alliance. Johnson has provided in equine law. Hill will detail the topic of a meeting Thurs- Society of the U.S. and People hundreds of similar presenta- Tennessee’s existing animal day, Jan. 21, from 10 a.m. to for the Ethical Treatment of tions throughout the U.S. and welfare laws and related pro- noon at the Embassy Suites Animals and their agendas in has worked with ag-related ducers’ rights. Conference Center in Mur- Tennessee as well as under- groups to strategically manage The summit is being hosted freesboro. standing animal welfare laws. activist campaigns targeting by the Tennessee Cattlemen’s The inaugural Tennessee Keynote speaker will be their businesses. Association, Tennessee Pork Animal Agriculture Summit is Kay Johnson Smith, executive Also speaking will be Lynda Producers Association, Tennes- see Poultry Association (TPA), and Tennessee Equine Associa- tion. It is open to all animal producers, and there are no registration fees though preregistration is requested. To preregister, call the TPA office at 615-896-2372 or contact any sponsoring association by Jan. 20. Workshops o-op planned for small C farm enterprises The University of Tennessee Center for Profitable Agriculture inner’s (CPA) will conduct a “Develop- ing Successful Small Farm En- W terprises” workshop series over up five consecutive weeks during January and February. Work- C shops will rotate among to-be- determined locations in Colum- bia, Pulaski, and Lawrenceburg starting at 6 p.m. each Thursday from Jan. 28 to Feb. 25. Attendees will study top- NEXT GENERATION ics ranging from how to best utilize limited acreage to farm planning and direct marketing. mare & foal feed Each attendee will receive a Next Generation 1600, Co-op’s mare and foal horse notebook and computer flash feed, is formulated to meet the demanding nutritional drive containing presentations requirements of the gestating/lactating brood mare and workshop materials along as well as the growing foal. Horses, in both of these with one complimentary soil stages of life, experience added stress, which requires analysis from the UT Soil Lab. enhanced nutrition. The feed’s added vitamin C and “Our workshops are ideal for Sel-Plex® selenium yeast stimulate antioxidant activity to improve immune response for maintaining a healthy landowners with smaller acre- animal. This coarse-textured feed contains added ages and hobbyists considering lysine and methionine to improve protein quality, a new agricultural enterprise,” which is important for milk production. You will says Amy Ladd, a marketing find this feed beyond compare. expert with CPA. “Our goal is for participants to gain a better understanding of the steps to consider when selecting, planning, and successfully operat- www.ourcoop.com ing a small farm.” For more information, call John Campbell, UT area farm management specialist, at 931-375-5301 or e-mail him at Simply a superior technology for the life of your horse. [email protected].

January 2010 29 “I fell in love with the aesthet- ics of the town — the sidewalks, the lampposts, the benches,” says Kim. “It’s an adorable town. We were able to work with the builder through the end of the renovation program, and we got to do all of the decorating, pick out fabrics, and get all of the furnishings to coordinate. That was a lot of fun.” Amy’s degree in interior design and Kim’s background in hospitality are in evidence in each of the nine guest rooms, each individually named after the historical dignitaries who have ties to the inn, including all three U.S. presidents from Tennessee — Andrew Jackson, Andrew Johnson, and James K. Polk. Today’s guests enjoy com- forts such as telephones, digital alarm clocks, and big-screen TVs Return to that blend in seamlessly with antique beds and other furnishings such as armoires, which served an interesting purpose in their day, Kim reveals. “Back in the 1800s, people StandingSPLENDOR proudly in historic downtown Rogersville, the Hale Springs Inn was the oldest continuously operating inn in Tennessee when it closed in 1999. It reopened in July — along with its restaurant, McKinney’s Fine Dining— after being purchased by the were taxed for every door they Rogersville Heritage Association. Hale Springs was built in 1824 as a stop for the stagecoach line from Washington, D.C., to Atlanta. had in their home,” she says. Closed for a decade, Rogersville’s historic Hale Springs Inn is now “For that reason, most people had armoires instead of closets.” welcoming travelers and locals alike with fine food and luxury lodging The Hale Springs Inn also Story and photos time selling it, and a lot of people find an experienced innkeeper offers an upscale yet affordable by Chris Villines were afraid that some other type who would be the right fit to restaurant, McKinney’s Fine of business would end up buy- manage this unique destination. Dining, which is run by accom- ompany’s once again ing it and it wouldn’t be an inn They didn’t have to look far, plished chef Brad Daniels. He coming to the historic anymore,” says Eddie Abernathy, selecting the mother-daughter was recruited for the job by Amy, CHale Springs Inn in a Rogersville optometrist who team of Kim and Amy Cason of who attended the same Sunday Rogersville, a crown jewel in serves as president of the Rogers- M&D Hospitality whose fam- School class as Brad. Tennessee’s second-oldest town. ville Heritage Association. “He ily had previously owned and “We were having a function Originally built in 1824 by lo- came to us, made us a good deal, operated Gatlinburg’s renowned at church, and I had on a Black- cal lawyer and businessman John and we set about preserving it, Eight Gables Inn for 10½ years. berry Farm hat,” recalls Brad, McKinney, this classic piece saving it, and reopening it as an Eight Gables is the longest- who was sous chef at the presti- of Southern charm reopened inn. It’s been a long, sometimes standing AAA Four-Diamond inn its doors this past July after a trying process, but we’re pleased in Tennessee, and the Casons decade-long closure and an ex- with the results.” are intent on securing the same tensive $2.1 million renovation. rating for Hale Springs. l The new version blends the inn’s Rogersville “During our time at the Eight rich heritage with the modern- Gables, we grew it from 10 to 20 day conveniences and services guest rooms and added a spa and expected by today’s travelers. Since the inn was officially restaurant,” says Kim, who ran When it closed in 1999, the deemed out of business, Eddie the inn along with her husband, Hale Springs was the state’s says, “we weren’t grandfathered Don, now the chief executive oldest continuously operated in [to its original guidelines] officer of the Jefferson County inn, and in 2003 the Rogersville anymore.” The building had to Chamber of Commerce. “We Heritage Association purchased go through stringent inspections sold it in 2005, and I had been it with the intention of preserv- and get up to codes, includ- sitting idle. Amy was finishing ing its 185-year legacy, which ing the installation of an entire her degree and looking for career includes hosting three U.S. sprinkler system — unheard of opportunities when we ran presidents and serving as head- when the inn was built in 1824. across an article in the newspa- quarters for Union forces during Once the renovation — per- per saying the Hale Springs Inn Pat Wilkosz, the receptionist at Hale the Civil War. formed by Rogersville construc- was reopening and looking for a Springs, shows Hawkins Farmers “When the inn closed, the tion company Investment Con- management team to run it.” Cooperative Manager Brian Julian a hidden trap door that was used owner at the time, the late tractors Corporation — neared Though the Casons had never by Union soldiers to hide valuables former ship captain Carl Neth- its completion, the next task of been to Rogersville, they applied during the Civil War. The contractor of the inn’s renovation project rented erland-Brown, was having a hard the Heritage Association was to and were awarded the job. construction equipment from the Co-op.

30 January 2010 LEFT: The Mollie Gray Room is one of nine guest rooms at the Hale Springs, each of which is named after a figure of historical significance to the inn.ABOVE: McKinney’s Executive Chef Brad Daniels looks over a beef price list brought to him by one of his local suppliers, Hawkins Farmers Co-op customer Colin Smith of Rogersville’s Big Creek Farms. gious resort in Walland and most Tuesday through Saturday and addition to many of the door it will spur some others to bring recently worked at the acclaimed for brunch on Sunday, all guests frames and furniture, dates back more businesses and more tax Savannah, Ga., restaurant Local staying at the inn are treated to to the inn’s beginning. “I feel dollars into our city. We want 11 Ten. “Amy remembered that a full breakfast, complete with like God gives us all talents and people to come stay, eat, and I was a chef. She contacted me, homemade honey butter. gifts, and I truly feel like mine have a big time in Rogersville.” I interviewed with her and her “We’re very fortunate to have is hospitality. I love fulfilling “It’s exciting to talk to people mother, and then I did a tasting a place like McKinney’s in our guests’ needs and trying to antici- who stayed at the Hale Springs for 15 people and got the job.” town,” says Eddie. “You can eat pate what they want before they 20 years ago who are finding out As the restaurant prepared lunch there for as little as $6, even have to ask. That is our it has reopened and are coming for its opening this past August, and the food is great, it’s quiet, motto: ‘Yes is the answer; what back,” adds Kim. “But you don’t Brad began working the phones and you’re not eating out of a is the question?’” have to live outside of Rogers- and scouting the Tennessee basket or on a paper plate.” As the word starts to spread ville to enjoy it. The inn truly is Department of Agriculture’s Attention to even the small- about the rebirth of the Hale something the whole community picktnproducts.org Web site est details, Kim says, combined Springs Inn, Eddie and Kim say can be proud of.” to establish relationships with with the obvious historical sig- they hope this important piece of The Hale Springs Inn/McKin- local produce and livestock nificance help set the inn apart. Rogersville’s rich history will be ney’s Fine Dining is located at farms. His goal was to include “It’s very unique to stay at embraced by out-of-towners and 110 West Main Street in Rogers- the freshest-grown ingredients a place where three presidents locals alike. ville. Nightly room rates range for his lunch and dinner menus. have stayed and know you’re “We really want the Hale from $129-$169. The restaurant’s pork and poultry walking the same floors they Springs to be advantageous to For more information, call are delivered from Rogersville’s did,” says Kim, pointing out the the whole town, not just the 877-222-1616 or visit online at Big Creek Farms, which recently original wood flooring that, in inn,” says Eddie. “We hope that www.halespringsinn.com. expanded its offerings into beef as well, and Clinch Appalachian Farm Enterprises (CAFÉ), a member-run organization of 20 East Tennessee farmers, provides fresh vegetables. “CAFÉ has incredible stuff,” says Brad as he carves thin slices of beef brisket for lunch. “I’m getting all of my greens and herbs from them right now. It’s a good relationship because I’m helping these farmers out and they’re helping me out by bringing me everything fresh off the farm.” The reviews are decidedly thumbs-up from those who have been treated to Brad’s cuisine, such as Rogersville resident Shir- ley Price, also a member of the town’s Heritage Association. “The salmon is to die for,” says Shirley. “I’ve had salmon in Ed- inburgh [Scotland] and Alaska, and the salmon at McKinney’s is comparable. Brad does a mean LEFT: Kim Cason, left, manages the Hale Springs along with her daughter, Amy. The Casons formerly owned and operated shrimp-and-grits, too.” Gatlinburg’s popular Eight Gables Inn. Brad earned his stripes at prestigious Blackberry Farm. ABOVE RIGHT: One of the Even though the restaurant is many unique antique pieces inside the inn is this off-center piano that dates back to the 1840s. According to Rogersville Heritage Association records, there were only two of these pianos made, with the other residing in The White House. only open for lunch and dinner BOTTOM RIGHT: Members of the Grainger County Family and Career Education Club enjoy a lunch meeting at McKinney’s.

January 2010 31 What’s Cookin’? Beyond the breakfast bowl Oats are a versatile ingredient for dishes served any time of day t’s hard to beat the warm goodness of old-fashioned oatmeal to start off I a cold winter day. But oats go way beyond the breakfast bowl as one of the most versatile and nutritious ingredients for dishes served any time of day. The versatility of oats is one of the best traits of these hearty whole grains. Oats add taste, texture, and wholesome nutrition to a variety of recipes from appetizers and snacks, to dinners and desserts. There are health benefits to cooking with oats, too. Oats are rich in soluble fiber, which removes “bad” cholesterol to help lower the risk of heart disease. As the submissions for this month’s column prove, “What’s cookin’?” readers have already discovered the usefulness of oats for themselves. Darlene Miller of Paris uses quick-cooking oats to bind together her “Barbecued Meatballs.” In fact, oats are a good substitute for plain breadcrumbs in meatloaf and other recipes as well. “I love this recipe,” says Darlene, our Cook-of- the-Month for January. “These meatballs are deli- cious!” Other featured recipes are Oatmeal Raisin Bars, Poor Man’s Pie, Oatmeal Pancakes, Oatmeal Crisp Chicken, Loaded Oatmeal Cookies, Branola, and Cheesy Sun Crisps. Can you spot the oatmeal in these meatballs? Probably not, but there are 2 cups of quick-cooking oats holding together the ingredients in Darlene Miller’s “Barbecued Meatballs.” The recipe has Enjoy. earned Darlene our “Cook-of-the-Month” honors for January. — Photo by Mark E. Johnson, food styling by Allison Morgan Clip, save, and serve Oatmeal Raisin Bars

Barbecued Meatballs January 2010 winning recipe 2 cups raisins 1 can sweetened condensed What you will need: Directions: milk 2 tablespoons lemon juice • 3 pounds ground beef Mix meatball ingredients together 1 tablespoon grated lemon • 1 can evaporated milk and shape into two-inch balls. No rind • 2 cups quick oats more than two layers thick, Place in 1 cup butter, softened • 2 eggs loaf pan or baking dish. 1 1 ⁄3 cups brown sugar • 1 cup chopped onions Combine sauce ingredients and 1 1 ⁄2 teaspoons vanilla 1 heat to boiling. Pour over meat- • ⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 cup flour • 2 teaspoons salt balls and bake at 350° for 1 ⁄2 teaspoon soda 1 • ⁄2 teaspoon black pepper one hour or until done. 1 ⁄4 teaspoon salt • 2 teaspoons chili seasoning 1 2 ⁄2 cups rolled oats Sauce: 1 cup walnuts, coconut, or • 2 cups ketchup pecans 1 • 1 ⁄2 cups brown sugar Heat oven to 375°. Mix 1 • ⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder raisins, milk, lemon juice, and 1 • ⁄2 cup chopped onion lemon rind in a saucepan; heat until bubbly. Set aside. Darlene Miller, Paris, Henry Farmers Cooperative In a large bowl, cream butter, sugar, and vanilla; add dry

32 January 2010 ingredients. Add oats and nuts. Mix flour and oatmeal vanilla, blending well. Drop by minutes. Immediately add oat What’s Cookin’? Spread half of the oat mixture in together. Set aside. Com- rounded teaspoons onto cookie bran and mix in slightly. Cool; a greased 9-x-13-inch pan. Pour bine milk and hot sauce. Dip sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 min- add dried fruit if desired. Store raisin mixture over top and cover chicken, piece by piece in the utes. in airtight container. 1 with remaining oat mixture. milk. Drain excess. Salt and To make icing, heat ⁄2 cup Yield: Approximately 1 gallon. Bake 25 minutes or until light pepper chicken pieces. Coat butter over medium heat in a Agnes Schrock golden brown. Slice into bars chicken pieces with flour-oat- small saucepan until golden Monterey when cool. Store in refrigerator. meal mixture. brown, stirring occasionally. Re- Putnam Farmers Cooperative Sheryl Breeden Arrange chicken in prepared move saucepan from heat; stir in Martin baking pan. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and vanilla. Stir T Weakley Farmers Cooperative paprika and dot with 2 pats of in enough water to make an icing Cheesy Sun Crisps of drizzling consistency. Drizzle butter cubes. Bake at 400° over warm cookies. T for 15 minutes. Remove from 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Jeana Owens Poor Man’s Pie oven and dot with remaining sharp Cheddar cheese Cumberland Gap 1 butter cubes. Sprinkle with ⁄2 cup grated Parmesan 2 Claiborne Farmers Cooperative ⁄3 cup sugar cranberries and return to oven. cheese 2 1 ⁄3 cup oatmeal, uncooked Bake for an additional five min- ⁄2 cup butter, softened 2 ⁄3 cup dark Karo syrup utes or until done. T 3 tablespoons water 1 stick butter Yield: Six servings. Branola 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 2 eggs 4 Lucille Harrison ⁄ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla Greeneville 6 cups old-fashioned oats 1 cup quick-cooking oats 2 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie shell 3 Greene Farmers Cooperative 6 cups quick oats ⁄ cup roasted salted sun- Mix ingredients; pour in pie 1 cup wheat germ flower kernels 3 shell. Bake at 350° for 40 minutes. ⁄4 cup oat bran In a mixing bowl, combine Mrs. Danny Bailey T 1 cup raw sunflower seeds cheeses, butter, and water until Washburn Loaded Oatmeal or chopped nuts well blended. Combine, flour 2 Union Farmers Cooperative 1 ⁄3 cups brown sugar and salt; add to cheese mix- Cookies 1 ⁄2 teaspoon salt ture. Stir in oats and sunflower 1 stick butter or margarine, kernels. Knead the dough until 1 T ⁄2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted it holds together. Shape into a softened 3 Oatmeal Pancakes ⁄4 cup vegetable or canola 12-inch log. Cover with plas- 1 ⁄2 cup vegetable shortening oil tic wrap; chill for four hours or 1 1 2 1 ⁄2 cups packed light brown 1 ⁄ cup old-fashioned oat- ⁄2 teaspoon almond extract overnight. meal sugar Raisins and chopped dates Allow dough to stand at room 1 ⁄4 cup low-fat cottage 2 eggs (optional) temperature for 10 minutes 1 ⁄2 cup buttermilk 1 cheese (or tofu) Mix dry ingredients except oat before cutting into ⁄8-inch slices. 3 4 egg whites 1 ⁄4 cups all-purpose flour bran in large mixing bowl. Blend Place on greased, foil-lined bak- 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 teaspoon baking soda melted butter, oil, and almond ing sheets. Bake at 400° for 8 1 1 ⁄4 teaspoon cinnamon ⁄2 teaspoon salt extract. Pour over oatmeal to 10 minutes or until edges are 1 ⁄4 teaspoon nutmeg 1 teaspoon baking powder mixture and mix thoroughly by golden brown. Slide crackers Process in blender until 1 teaspoon ground ginger hand or with a large spoon until and foil off baking sheets to wire smooth. Spray non-stick frying 1 teaspoon freshly ground moistened. racks to cool. pan with cooking spray. Add bat- nutmeg Spread out on large flat pans Yield: Eight dozen. ter and cook over medium heat 1 teaspoon ground cinna- and bake 30 to 45 minutes at Marie Delffs until browned. mon 300° or until toasted to a light Normandy 1 Donald Slate ⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves brown color, stirring every 15 Franklin Farmers Cooperative 1 Knoxville ⁄2 teaspoon ground allspice 1 Knox Farmers Cooperative 2 ⁄2 cups quick-cooking oatmeal 1 cup raisins Go ‘green’ T 1 Oatmeal Crisp 1 ⁄2 cups chopped walnuts 1 teaspoon pure vanilla in March Chicken extract Going “green” — as in environmentally Brown Butter Icing: friendly — is all the buzz these days. Well, we’re following 1 1 ⁄4 cup dried cranberries ⁄2 cup butter that trend, too, but our “green” celebrates spring and 1 ⁄2 cup orange juice, heated 3 cups sifted powdered St. Patrick’s Day with your favorite recipes featuring green 1 ⁄3 cup flour sugar ingredients in the March “What’s cookin’?” column. The person submitting 2 ⁄3 cup oatmeal 1 teaspoon vanilla the best recipe will be named Cook-of-the-Month and receive $10. Others 1 ⁄2 cup milk 3 to 4 tablespoons water sending recipes chosen for publication will receive $5. 5 drops hot sauce or to taste Preheat oven to 350°. Grease Monday, Feb. 1, is the deadline for submitting your green recipes. 1 1 ⁄2 pounds chicken breast one or more cookie sheets. Us- Don’t forget: Only recipes that include complete, easy-to-follow instruc- tenders ing an electric mixer, cream to- tions will be considered for publication. Several recipes are disqualified each 1 Salt and pepper to taste gether ⁄2 cup butter, shortening, month because they do not contain all the information needed to prepare Paprika for garnish and sugar in a bowl until fluffy. the dishes successfully. Recipes featured in “What’s cookin’?” are not inde- 3 pats butter divided, cut Add eggs and beat until mixture pendently tested, so we must depend on the accuracy of the cooks sending into 6 cubes each is light-colored. Add buttermilk. them. Always use safe food-handling, preparation, and cooking procedures. Desired garnishes In a separate bowl, mix to- Send entries to: Recipes, Tennessee Cooperator, P.O. Box 3003, Preheat oven to 400°. Spray gether flour, baking soda, salt, LaVergne, TN 37086. You can submit more than one recipe in the same en- a 7-x-11-inch or similar-size baking powder, ginger, nutmeg, velope. You can also e-mail them to: [email protected]. Be sure to include your name, address, telephone number, and the Co-op with which baking pan with cooking spray. cinnamon, cloves, and allspice; stir into creamed mixture. Fold you do business. Recipes that appear in the “What’s cookin’?” column will Plump the dried cranberries in also be published on our Web site at www.ourcoop.com. the orange juice. Set aside. in oatmeal, raisins, walnuts, and

January 2010 33 Every Farmer Has A Story Ricky Cunningham Land, Lord As a farmer and a preacher, Ricky Cunningham is as much at home in the pasture as he is the pulpit

Story and photos by Allison Morgan Church members have learned to recognize when he’s been in embers of Hardin the field helping his father tend Baptist Church in to some 1,000 acres of corn MHardin, Ky., often and soybeans or in the pasture joke that they can’t decide working with his own herd of 30 whether their pastor, Ricky registered Angus cattle. Cunningham, is a farming “If I preach a really powerful preacher or a preaching farmer. sermon, they’ll say, ‘You got to Ricky can easily settle that ride the tractor this week, didn’t debate. you?’” laughs Ricky, who, along “At my core being, I’m a with his father is a customer of farmer who God has called to Henry Farmers Cooperative’s preach,” he says. “I would never Midway, Ky., branch. “When I’m give up the church and go back farming, I get more alone time to farming as a livelihood, but with the Lord, and the congrega- God didn’t take that farming de- As pastor of Hardin Baptist Church in Hardin, Ky., since 1983, Ricky Cunningham tion can see the difference.” sire away from me. So I believe balances a passion for preaching with a love for farming he’s had since childhood. Not only do these experi- I’m a preaching farmer.” that call during a revival at, fate- operation with hopes that he ences provide fodder for his As pastor of Hardin Baptist fully, Hardin Baptist Church. could still farm in his spare time. sermons, farming principles are for the past 26 years, “Brother “I said to the Lord that night, Fortunately, the church leaders also incorporated into Ricky’s Ricky,” as he’s affectionately ‘If you are really calling me to said he could farm as long as he preaching philosophy. He often known, has successfully melded preach, have the song leader got his church work done. uses agricultural metaphors in the work of the Lord with a love sing ‘I Surrender All’ during the “Now, I get to farm more than his ministry, like comparing his of the land that was cultivated invitation,’” says Ricky. “Well, ever before,” says Ricky. “I run congregation to cattle. on his family’s nearby Calloway you know what happened. But the planter and combine for my “When a farmer goes into County, Ky., farm. When Ricky I thought that was too easy. So dad, and I have beef cattle of my the pasture to feed his cattle, he was growing up, his father, I said, ‘OK, Lord, if this is really own. In the spring and fall, I can doesn’t just pour the feed and Bobby, and grandfather, Garnett, you calling me, have the song work two or three days a week leave,” says Ricky. “He waits operated a large farrow-to-finish leader sing the first, third, and to get the planting or harvesting until all the animals come up hog operation, grew several fourth verse.’ Well, sure enough, done and work at the church the and he checks them. If one is thousand acres of row crops, and he skipped the second verse and rest of the week.” missing, it’s probably sick, hurt, maintained a beef cattle herd. went right into the third. That During his tenure, Hardin or lost. So I look at Sunday Ricky had every intention of join- was it. The next Sunday, I an- Baptist has grown from a mem- morning as my primary time to ing them after high school. nounced I was going to preach.” bership of about 75 to more than feed my people. If I’m giving God had other plans. Around this same time, Ricky 1,600. The church has outgrown them good feed, I expect them to “I was saved at the age of had been putting down roots on three buildings, and multiple be here, and I check to see who 13, and by 16, I started sensing the family farm, entering into a worship services and Sunday is not. If someone’s missing, I that the Lord had a plan for my partnership with his father and Schools have been added to ac- want to know why. Are they sick life besides just salvation,” says grandfather and marrying his commodate the crowds. or hurt or lost?” Ricky. “I was being called to high school sweetheart, Celisa. Balancing his dual passions May marks Ricky’s 27th year preach, but I really tried not to In making the decision to for preaching and farming, Ricky at Hardin Baptist, his fears of be- listen. I was bound to the land. preach, Ricky says he also made believes, has been a key to stimu- ing uprooted by the ministry un- I wanted to settle down, grow a “bargain” with God. lating that growth and helping founded. He’s proud that he and things. I thought I’d have to give “I didn’t want to move around him garner the support of his Celisa were able to raise their all that up to preach.” like most of the Baptist preach- congregation. two children — daughter Kalista Ricky struggled with this ers I had always known,” says “The farming mentality just and son Kory — in the church, spiritual crisis for several years Ricky. “I wanted to live here, be makes me a better pastor,” says and he’s even prouder that Kory as he continued following an near my family, and stay on the Ricky. “I’m always using practi- is following in his footsteps as agricultural career path. He was farm. I told Him I would preach cal sermons with farming stories Hardin’s youth minister. Kory active in FFA, serving as state only if I could pastor a small to illustrate my message. Even and his wife, Katie, also have a vice president his senior year of country church in this area.” though the majority of our son, 10-month-old Crider, mak- high school, winning awards for God obviously agreed, and people are not farmers, they ing Ricky a grandfather at 48. public speaking, and earning his Ricky started out at a 60-mem- either have grandparents or par- “Most preachers start out American Farmer Degree. He ber church, Owens Chapel ents who were on the farm, and I small and want to go to the big also remained deeply involved in Baptist, where he remained until think they can relate to that.” city,” says Ricky. “I never wanted his hometown church, Ledbetter moving on to Hardin Baptist in As such, Ricky says his that. I just wanted to stay here. Baptist, but the idea of preach- 1983. Since the job at Hardin congregation doesn’t mind that I count it as a privilege to stay in ing kept nagging at him. Finally, was full time, Ricky dissolved their pastor communes with God the country and be a farmer that in 1980, at age 19, he answered his partnership in the family aboard a combine or tractor. God has called to preach.”

34 January 2010 Every Farmer Has A Story

Ricky carries his Bible and a notepad with him at all times so he can study or write down sermon ideas while he’s working with his herd of registered Angus cattle or helping his father, Bobby, with planting and harvesting row crops on their farm near Hardin, Ky. A customer of Henry Farmers Cooperative’s Midway, Ky., branch, Ricky often uses his farming background to illustrate the messages he delivers to his congregation at Hardin Baptist Church.

January 2010 35 36 January 2010