December 2016

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Also insideShooting Hunger event raises money for Second Harvest Food Bank - p. 10

‘World’s Largest Model Farm’ provides big fun on a small scale - p. 22

Farmer veteran shares his agricultural experiences to encourage others - p. 42

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Relying on reindeerSanta’s trusty animals aren’t a hobby but a livelihood for Knoxville’s Kyle Wilson

December 2016 3

Agriculture after the election Tennessee Ag Leadership Forum addresses new national leadership and future of farming.

Fighting hunger with firepower Sold-out second year of sporting clays event raises more than $35,000 for Second Harvest.

Under the umbrella Co-op’s Incompass Ag Technology program combines multiple crop tools to assist growers.

Model behavior Farm toy display provides big fun on a small scale for Colby Counce and Chase Long.

Point of emphasis At Thunder King Kennels, Ed Ford Jr. takes a personalized approach to training bird dogs.

TenneScene 4 As I Was Saying Jerry Kirk honors the contributions of outgoing Cooperator editor Allison (Morgan) Jenkins.

4 Our Country Churches Christian Chapel Church of Christ in Henderson County.

18 New at Co-op Learn about nine new products available at your hometown store.

20 Neighborly Advice Veterinary Feed Directive, water for equine.

38 What’s cookin’? Have a merry cranberry Christmas.

42 Every Farmer Has A Story Meet Charley Jordan, who is balancing a military career with farming aspirations.

In every issue

News and features

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Yes, your local Co-op store has feed, seed, and a plethora of other farm products. But many of our stores, like Anderson Farmers Cooperative in Clinton, dress up pretty nicely for Christmas, too, by offering gift and décor items to light up your homes as well as your family’s faces. — Photo by Chris Villines

Cover StoryDecember 2016

More than a few eyebrows were raised back in 1999 when Kyle Wilson told

people he was going to start a reindeer farm on his Knoxville property. To skeptics, Tennessee and the furry animals associated with Santa Claus and snow were a mismatch. But 17 years into his venture, Rocky Hill Reindeer, Kyle has not only sur-vived, he’s thrived. His 20-head herd stays in high demand during the holiday season for special appearances and extended stays at zoos and other attractions.

ON THE COVER: Antlers are still developing for Blossom, a 3-year-old cow at Rocky Hill Reindeer in Knoxville. Both male and female reindeer grow antlers, but they shed them at different times. —Photos by Chris Villines

34 Relying on reindeer

contents

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4 December 2016

The Tennessee Cooperator is distributed free to patrons of member Co-ops. Since

each Co-op maintains its own mailing list, requests for subscriptions must be made

through the local Co-op. When reporting an address change, please include the mailing label from a past

issue and send to the following address:

Tennessee CooperatorP.O. Box 3003

LaVergne, TN 37086 Phone: (615) 793-8339

E-mail: tlewter@ourcoop.com

Guest Subscriptions:Guest subscriptions are available for $12.95 per year by sending a check

or money order to Tennessee Farmers Cooperative at the above address.

Editor: Allison Jenkinsajenkins@ourcoop.com

Assistant Editor: Chris Villinescvillines@ourcoop.com

Communications Specialist: Sarah Geyersgeyer@ourcoop.com

Contributing Editor: Jerry Kirkjkirk@ourcoop.com

Senior Graphic Designer: Shane Readsread@ourcoop.com

Graphic Designer: Jason Barnsjbarns@ourcoop.com

Layout & Production Coordinator:Travis Merriman

tmerriman@ourcoop.comEditorial Assistant: Polly Campbell

pcampbell@ourcoop.comAdvertising Information: Keith Harrison615-793-8585, kharrison@ourcoop.com

NOTICE: This publication is for informational purposes only. Tennessee

Farmers Cooperative, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and member Co-ops are not

responsible for any damages or claims that may result from a reader’s use of this information, including but not limited to

actual, punitive, consequential, or economic damages. Tennessee Farmers Cooperative

makes no warranties or representations, either express or implied, including warranties of merchantability or fitness of any product/material for a particular purpose. Each

article, document, advertisement, or other information is provided “AS IS” and without

warranty of any kind. Tennessee Farmers Cooperative reserves the right to alter,

correct, or otherwise change any part or portion of this publication, including articles

and advertisements, without detriment to Tennessee Farmers Cooperative, its affiliates,

subsidiaries, or member cooperatives.

TFC Board of Directors:Chairman — Johnny Brady,

Riceville, Zone 3Vice Chairman — Kenneth Nixon,

Carthage, Zone 2Keith Fowler, Martin, Zone 1Amos Huey, Kenton, Zone 1

Tim Luckey, Humboldt, Zone 1Donald Jernigan, Christiana, Zone 2Stephen Philpott, Shelbyville, Zone 2

David Sarten, Sevierville, Zone 3Mark Thompson, Cumberland Gap, Zone 3

Chief Executive Officer — Bart Krisle

Published by Tennessee Farmers Cooperative in the interest of better

farming through cooperation and improved technology, and to connect the Co-op

community through shared experiences, common values, and rural heritage.

TFC’s website: www.ourcoop.com

Follow our social media sites:

December 2016Volume 57, Number 11

www.facebook.com/ TennesseeFarmersCooperativewww.twitter.com/TNFarmerswww.pinterest.com/tnfarmerswww.youtube.com/TnFarmersCooperative

As I Was Saying

Jerry Kirk

Contributing Editor

Our Country Churches

Located on Darden Christian Chapel Road near Wildersville, this cherished house of worship was organized on Aug. 22, 1860, in a schoolhouse near Sulphur Fork of Cub Creek. A “meeting house” built in the summer of 1866 at the church’s present location was destroyed by fire on April 1, 1893, replaced by the current structure. – Information compiled by Brenda Kirk Fiddler

Christian Chapel Church of Christ in Henderson County

256th in a series to show where our rural Co-op friends worship

Goodbye to Editor Allison (Morgan) Jenkins

I’m sure many folks who have read — and hopefully enjoyed — the Tennes-see Cooperator for the past two decades will be surprised to read in this edition that Editor Allison (Morgan) Jenkins has resigned and will be moving

soon to Missouri with her new husband and their blended family that includes three bright youngsters (see page 13).

When Allison married Jason Jenkins on Saturday, Oct. 1, in a beautiful out-door ceremony at rustic Echo Bluff State Park in Missouri, our closely knit staff figured her days here were numbered. We fully understand, though, why she’s taking this step and wish her all the happiness in the world.

Though we can’t say definitively that theirs is a match made in Heaven, it comes pretty close. Both were active members and leaders of a group many of

us view as “sacred” — the Cooperative Communicators Association (CCA). Allison, who’s also man-ager of TFC’s Communications Department, has been a member since starting here, winning a ton of awards in CCA’s highly competitive national competitions and serving as its president. Jason was also a highly decorated CCA member as a longtime photographer and writer with Rural Missouri, the wonderful statewide publication of Missouri electric cooperatives.

I admit that I’m an ardent Allison admirer. In fact, hiring her as a communications specialist back in June of 1996 was one of the best things I did as manager of the Communications Department. She was 20 — soon to turn 21 — and had just received her bachelor of science degree in journal-ism, with honors, from Middle Tennessee State University, where she was editor of the yearbook. I remember being impressed by her maturity and how she handled herself. Long story short, Allison became one of the most capable, versatile communications professionals I’ve ever known.

Under her editorship, the Tennessee Cooperator reached new heights of quality and readership due to her dogged determination to make it the best. A case in point: the October/November 2016 issue carried an Allison story titled “Unknown Soldiers,” a fascinating feature on the history of West Tennessee’s Camp Tyson, America’s only barrage balloon training center during World War II. I mentioned the story to Allison a few weeks ago as we drove to West Tennessee on a special mission. Telling her how much I enjoyed the article, she said, “Oh, yes, I had known about that for a long time, but it took a while to get everything set up.” As it turned out, Allison had scouted out sources, rounded up vintage photographs, and set up interviews before she was could head west to “get the story.” Of course, it was beautifully written and illustrated, making what I consider a masterpiece.

Now, she’s taking those talents to Missouri. Once there, Allison will pursue new career opportuni-ties and join Jason in operating Mill Creek Communications, a freelance venture they launched this summer. Jason is creative director of the company, and Allison is editorial director. Jason also recent-ly began work as coordinator of Missourians for Monarchs, a Columbia-based statewide collabora-tive focused on pollinator conservation. They’ll live in central Missouri with their children — Aiden, 8; Carly, 7; and Ashlyn, 5.

“I’m so happy for Allison and wish her much happiness in the future as she and Jason start their new family together,” says Bart Krisle, TFC’s chief executive officer. “Allison’s positive influence has been very beneficial to TFC and our member cooperatives as our system has grown and expanded to the point that we’re recognized as one of the leading agriculture companies in Tennessee. I have had the pleasure of working with Allison on several projects through the years — some pleasant and some very challenging — but regardless of the circumstances, she approached each one with a smile and positive attitude. I am grateful for having the opportunity to work with her.”

December 2016 5

News brief

Story and photos by Sarah Geyer

Politics took center stage at the fifth annual Tennessee Agriculture

Leadership Forum Oct. 11 in Murfreesboro where industry experts discussed challenges agriculture may face in the wake of this year’s national election.

The forum — held at Em-bassy Suites and sponsored by CoBank, Tennessee Depart-ment of Agriculture, and Farm Credit Mid-America — brought agriculture industry leaders from across the state to net-work and share information.

“Education will be the key for us, regardless of who takes office,” said Brian Cavey, senior vice president of government affairs for CoBank, stressing that besides a new president, Capitol Hill will welcome nu-

merous new faces — 50 to 60 seats in the House and six to 10 in the Senate.

“Some will come in with no political experience, and, as a result, probably no exposure to the Farm Credit System,” Cavey said during his Wash-ington update. “We’ll be trying to teach them what we do, who we are, and what differ-ence we make in their state or congressional district. It’s a big educational task to get to 70 new offices. We can’t take the support of these new people for granted any more than we can take for granted the support of those who are already there.”

Once the election is over, Cavey said his staff will work closely with the new White House staff during the presi-dent’s appointment process.

“After selecting an inner circle, the president will make

first-tier selections for cabinet secretaries and then choose the second-tier appointees,” he said. “We’ll be actively involved during that process, looking to help place in those jobs indi-viduals who understand us and what we do.”

He also discussed upcoming

ag-related legislation, including reauthorization of the Agricul-tural Act of 2014 or the U.S. Farm Bill.

“If you think the last reau-thorization was a mess, wait ’til you have 60 new people on the

(See Forum, page 6)

Agriculture after the electionTennessee Ag Leadership Forum speakers offer perspectives on new national leadership and the future of farming industry

Brian Cavey, CoBank’s senior vice president of government affairs, shares with attendees a Washington update at the 2017 Tennessee Ag Leadership Forum on Oct. 11.

Thinking about becoming a farmer? A series of workshops in 2017 can get you started.

Rob Holland, director of the University of Tennessee Cen-ter for Profitable Agriculture (CPA), is working with Mitchell Mote, UT Extension agent in Rutherford County, to present educational sessions for those interested in becoming a farm owner-operator.

Each full-day event is independent, and the same materials will be presented. Designed for those with little or no farming background, program topics include the language of agricul-ture; a self-assessment of goals, desires, and commitment; basic crop and livestock needs; evaluating land suitability; equipment and tools; potential risks; and more.

“Considerations for Beginning Farmers” workshops will be held across the state over the course of several months.

• Wednesday, Jan. 25 — Montgomery County UT-TSU Extension Office, Clarksville

• Tuesday, March 28 — White County Ag Complex, Sparta • Wednesday, May 10 — Grainger County Ag Pavilion,

Rutledge• Tuesday, July 11 — Madison County UT-TSU Extension

Office, JacksonThe cost to attend is $25 per person, which includes the

program and lunch. Registration deadline for each event is one week prior to the workshop date. For more information, contact Mote at 615-898-7710.

Beginning farmer workshop series planned in 2017

6 December 2016

(continued from page 5)Forum

House side vying for their piece of the pie,” Cavey explained. “We have a big job ahead of us.”

Cavey said he also expects legislative efforts to reform or eliminate crop insurance. “We are, as CoBank and the Farm Credit System, very supportive of continuing crop insurance because it’s an improvement. Yes, there are parts that could be improved, but we sure as heck need to maintain it be-cause it’s a critical component of our agricultural program.”

Cavey ended his update with a nod to agriculture’s future leaders: 4-H and FFA mem-bers in the audience. “To see the young people who are here is really important from my perspective. What’s going on in politics that affects our industry will be impacted for the better by the young people among us.”

Keynote speaker Dr. Jay Lehr, science director for The Heartland Institute, a Chicago-based think tank, also weighed in on the economic impact the nation’s future leadership could bring: “The United States will always lead the world regard-less of major government changes or challenges. Our geography and constitution will overcome, whether our presi-dent is Clinton or Trump.”

The futurist and econo-mist also shared his views on global and national agriculture

economic outlooks, based on historical data for commodities and farming cycles.

He concluded his presenta-tion with predictions about agriculture’s newest trends, including drones, cover crops, and GMOs, pointedly address-ing the controversy surround-ing the seed technology.

“Those who are anti-GMO are anti-people,” Lehr told the audience. “That technology is what can feed the starving populations of Third World countries, and those who op-pose it are using labels to scare consumers.”

Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture Jai Templeton presented a status report on the state’s Rural Development Task Force, just a day after the com-mittee released its recommen-dations to Gov. Bill Haslam.

Templeton, co-chairman of the task force, was joined on stage by the other co-chairs, Commissioner of Economic and Community Development Randy Boyd and Commissioner of Tourist Development Kevin Triplett.

In August 2015, Gov. Haslam charged the Rural Development Task Force with creating a strategic plan and comprehensive vision for rural development throughout the state. To do this, Templeton said, the task force mapped existing assets, convened issues forums, and engaged stakehold-ers to identify gaps, opportuni-ties, and partnerships.

“From the input received from local stakeholders,” the commissioner added, “two main needs emerged for our rural communities: capacity-building and placemaking.”

Capacity-building, explained Boyd, addresses the process of increasing the community’s ability to take advantage of resources and achieve its goals, while placemaking deals with the planning and design of com-munity places to promote the overall well-being of a region.

“By addressing these two areas through 22 suggested action steps,” said Triplett, “we can empower and assist rural areas to create dynamic econo-mies and thriving communi-ties.”

The agenda also included a presentation by Sarah Bellos, who shared her story as found-er and CEO of Stony Creek Colors, an enterprising Rob-

ertson County-based company that partners with local farm-ers to produce a natural indigo colorant for denim.

Mark Wilson, Farm Credit’s senior vice president for finan-cial services, presented the company’s 100 Fresh Perspec-tives award to Emily Buck, a former FFA state president and Co-op intern.

Wilson said Buck, now a field representative for Con-gresswoman Diane Black, “is one of 100 leaders and vision-aries nationwide selected for their dedication and innova-tion for agriculture and rural America. Emily is passionate about ag education and works tirelessly to improve the public image of agriculture and dispel common myths. She has trans-lated that passion into a public policy career where she works to promote food policy and to help feed the world.”

Dr. Bill Parks, right, University of Tennessee at Knoxville’s Farm Credit Scholars program director, visits with FFA members, from left, Ty Wolaver, Sam Daniel, Victoria Utsman, and Haley Webb.

Three of Tennessee’s top officials, from left, Commissioner of Economic and Community Development Randy Boyd, Commissioner of Agriculture Jai Templeton, and Commissioner of Tourism Kevin Triplett, discuss the state’s Rural Development Task Force report.

Dr. Jay Lehr, science director for the Heartland Institute, talks passionately about the use of GMOs.

December 2016 7

Producers throughout the state are feeling the effects of an uncommonly hot, dry au-tumn. Many are concerned for the health and welfare of their livestock, and concern is grow-ing regarding wildfires.

To help the state’s farmers, rural communities, and fami-lies deal with the ongoing situa-tion, University of Tennessee Extension has posted an online “drought resources” webpage. The site provides links to a

variety of educational infor-mation that can help people make informed decisions on how to deal with extended dry conditions. The website can be found at this URL: https:// extension.tennessee.edu/Pages/ANR-CED-Drought.aspx.

“We intend for this website to be a ‘living document,’” said Robert Burns, associate dean of UT Extension who works with agricultural, natural resource, and community economic

development issues. “It will be continually added to and updated with information from UT Extension specialists and other credible sources.”

The site includes dates, locations, and times for statewide producer webinars where drought management techniques will be presented. Some webinars have already occurred, but recordings of all the webinars are being posted for later viewing.

Along the top of the page is a link to the UT Extension pub-lications page, where a simple search for topics of interest, such as “drought” or “livestock watering” can be entered to generate a list of available pub-lications by UT experts. Most are available free of charge.

Producers and landowners can also find information at these websites:

• UT Beef and Forage Cen-ter: utbeef.com

• UT Extension Offices: extension.tennessee.edu. Just click on “Your Local Office” and then your county’s image or name.

• Tennessee Department of Agriculture: tn.gov/agriculture

• The National eXtension site: ask.extension.org

With drought conditions hindering hay production and pasture quality, feeding live-stock is of particular concern. To help producers find hay for their animals during the late fall and winter, TDA, in coop-eration with Tennessee Farm Bureau, maintains a Hay Direc-tory at www.tn.gov/agriculture/article/ag-farms-hay.

UT Extension posts online drought resources

According to an Oct. 1 report from the National Agricultural Statistics Service Tennessee Field Office, corn production in the state is forecast at 118 mil-lion bushels, up 1 percent from the previous crop. Yield was es-timated at 148 bushels per acre, down 12 bushels from 2015. The soybean crop is expected to be 75.4 million bushels, down 5 percent from last year, with yields averaging 46 bushels per acre, unchanged from 2015.

Cotton production is pro-jected to be 530,000 bales, up 74 percent from last year. Yields, however, are forecast at 1,018 per acre, down 28 pounds.

In tobacco, burley is estimat-ed at 17.4 million pounds, down 19 percent from 2015; dark fire-cured tobacco 18.6 million pounds, down 22 percent; and dark air-cured tobacco 2.76 mil-lion pounds, down 16 percent.

October report forecasts state’s crop production

8 December 2016

December 2016 9

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10 December 2016

Nearly 250 Middle Tennessee shooters took aim at hunger

on Thursday, Sept. 29, raising $35,555 for Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.

With participation more than doubling last year’s inaugural event, the second annual Shoot-ing Hunger Sporting Clays Fun Shoot generated enough funds to provide 142,220 meals. Held at the Nashville Gun Club, the event was co-sponsored by Ten-nessee Farmers Cooperative, Tennessee Farm Bureau, and Farm Credit Mid-America.

“This year’s sold-out event shows how much the ag commu-nity cares about the hungry in Tennessee,” says Bryan Wright, director of membership for Ten-nessee Farm Bureau. “Since 96 cents out of every dollar donated to Second Harvest goes right back out the door, that’s the kind of group that can really make a difference, and one we’re proud to support.”

Second Harvest relies on donations and fundraisers such as the Sporting Clays Fun Shoot to fulfill its mission of serving

hungry families through 490 partner agencies in a 46-county area in Middle and West Tennes-see. Last year, Second Harvest distributed more than 31 million pounds of food, the equivalent of more than 26 million meals.

“With 1 in 6 Tennesseans struggling with hunger, it is im-perative — now more than ever — that action is taken to help end hunger,” says Jaynee Day, president and CEO of Second Harvest. “We are so thankful that the agricultural industry has come together under the leader-ship of Tennessee Farmers Coop-erative, Farm Bureau, and Farm Credit, taking action to end hunger, and we appreciate their commitment to ensure Second Harvest is feeding more people. In just two years, more than 230,000 meals have been pro-vided to our neighbors in need, thanks to Shooting Hunger.”

Wright devised the Shooting Hunger idea while brainstorm-ing with a colleague about ways

Farm Bureau and Farm Credit could partner with the food distribution network. They approached TFC later in the process for sponsorship.

“While our three organizations were the driving forces behind this event, it truly is a Tennessee agri-culture initiative,” says Matt Neal, regional vice president for Farm Credit. “The event wouldn’t exist without the support of all of our sponsors and participants.”

Many agricultural organiza-tions and companies provided corporate sponsorships and/or teams. Those include the Ten-nessee Department of Agricul-ture, Farm and Forest Families of Tennessee, Tennessee Cattle-men’s Association, Tennessee Pork Producers Association, 4-H, FFA, ADM, TriGreen Equip-ment, Ducks Unlimited, Abra Auto Glass, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, AirMedCare, and others.

Divided into morning and afternoon sessions, the com-petition attracted nearly 50 five-member teams who tested their target-shooting techniques on 13 unique stations through-out the course. Referred to as “golf with a shotgun,” sporting clays tournaments like this are designed to simulate the un-predictability of hunting of live birds in the field rather than shooting skeet from standard-ized distances and angles.

For the second year, TFC also sponsored a shooting team. This year’s members included John Duke, manager of TFC’s Crop

lNashville

Members of Team Co-op, along with 47 other shooting teams, participated in the second annual Shooting Hunger Sporting Clays Fun Shoot at the Nashville Gun Club on Sept. 29. The $35,555 raised from this year’s event benefits Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee and will provide the equivalent of 142,220 meals.

Story and photos by Sarah Geyer

TFC provided the three teams and best shooter with a custom Orca cooler sporting the Shooting Hunger logo.

December 2016 11

Nutrients Department; TFC agronomist Dennis McCaslin; TFC General Counsel David Moss; Todd Rankin, outside salesman for Tipton Farmers Cooperative; and First Farm-ers Cooperative manager Rob White.

“This was my first experience at Nashville Gun Club, and the atmosphere was amazing,” says Rankin. “I had a great time at this event and can’t wait for next year. As a coordinator for Hunt-ers for the Hungry in southwest Tennessee, fighting hunger is close to my heart, and I’m proud that my Co-op family has found another way to support this important cause.”

Prizes were awarded for the top three teams and best individ-ual shooter. The team sponsored by Cumberland County Farm Bureau took first-place hon-ors. Placing second was Team Marty Moore, and third place went to the team representing Giles County 4-H. Cumberland County Farm Bureau’s Andrew Smith was recognized as the top

individual shooter. Each winner received a custom Orca cooler provided by TFC and featuring the Shooting for Hunger logo.

Door prizes included a Gatlin-burg and three Nashville week-end getaways.

Next year’s Shooting for Hun-ger event at the Nashville Gun Club will be Thursday, Sept. 28. Plans are under way for a similar event in West Tennessee June 8 at the Carroll County Shooting Complex in Huntington.

“Co-op is proud to stand with the agriculture community to fight hunger in our state,” says Keith Harrison, TFC marketing manager. “The sky’s the limit when our industry comes togeth-er for such a worthwhile cause, and we look forward to the fruits from this event’s continuing labors for many years to come.”

For more information about 2017’s Shooting Hunger events, visit tnfarmbureau.org/shoot-inghunger. To learn more about about Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, visit secondharvestmidtn.org.

The members of Team Co-op, are, from left, Rob White, manager First Farmers Cooperative; Todd Rankin, outside salesman, Tipton Farmers Cooperative; Dennis McCaslin, TFC agronomist; John Duke, manager of TFC’s Crop Nutrients Department; and David Moss, TFC General Counsel.

Tennessee Farmers Cooperative agronomist Dennis McCaslin carefully aims before shattering a clay at one of the course’s 13 shooting stations.

12 December 2016

December 2016 13

If I’m figuring correctly, this issue of the Cooperator is the 225th one I’ve been a part of since starting my career with Tennes-see Farmers Cooperative in June 1996.

It will be my last as full-time editor.A new chapter in my life story began Oct. 1 when I married Jason

Jenkins, a resident of Missouri. We will make our home there with our children — Aiden, 8, Carly, 7, and Ashlyn, 5. Our sweet daugh-ters were maids of honor and handsome son the best man at our memorable wedding held at the stunningly beautiful Echo Bluff State Park in Eminence, Mo., where we celebrated our marriage with a close-knit group of family and friends from across the U.S.

You may recall that three years ago in October, I lost my first husband and Carly’s father, Craig, in a carbon-monoxide poison-ing accident that almost took my life as well. So many people — including many of you — prayed for me to fully recover, get back on my feet again, and see what God had in store for us.

Part of His plan is unfolding now.I’ve found a wonderful, kind man who is

fiercely devoted to me and our children. I see a loving and fulfilling life ahead of us. Jason and I have known each other for years as profes-sional colleagues in cooperative communica-tions and have always collaborated well. See, he’s an editor, writer, and photographer, too, so we have a lot in common. We are friends who became best friends and now husband and wife. We’re good together. Really good.

Yes, I’m sad to leave my Co-op family, because that’s what they are — family. I will miss the camaraderie of the Communications Department staff, both present and past, and I’m proud of the work we’ve done. I know the current staff will

continue to tell the Co-op story and uphold the standards of excel-lence. During the past 20 years, I’ve had the pleasure to work with many talented people in the Co-op system and the agricultural indus-try, and I’ve met hundreds of wonderful, interesting folks through the stories I’ve told. This job has been rewarding in so many ways.

But I’m thrilled about the new adventures ahead. Jason and I plan to build a house for our family on the 75 rural acres we own just outside Jefferson City, Missouri’s capital. We’re both farm kids, so raising our children in the country will be a dream come true. I am looking for new career opportunities and helping Jason run our freelance business, Mill Creek Communications Services, which we started this summer. He’s a few months into a new job as coordinator of Missourians for Monarchs, a unique statewide

collaborative focused on pollinator conserva-tion, and he loves it. The role really suits his outdoorsy, outgoing nature.

I will leave TFC after helping out with our annual meeting Nov. 27-28 and the January Cooperator. Carly and I are moving to Missouri when her school semester ends in mid-Decem-ber. She, too, is excited about what lies ahead with her new brother and sister and an amazing father who loves her as his own. But, with so much family living here in Tennessee, you can rest assured that the five of us will be back to visit quite often.

While I may only have a hand in one more Cooperator issue after this, my heart will always be in it. Thank you for your readership and support of this magazine and for allowing me to tell the stories of Tennessee’s farmers, their Co-ops, and their communities.

— Allison

This writer, editor begins a new life story

Newlyweds Allison and Jason Jenkins celebrate with their children, from left, Carly, Aiden, and Ashlyn, after their wedding ceremony Oct. 1 at Echo Bluff State Park in Eminence, Mo.

14 December 2016

Stoney Hargett has never been one to shy away from new technology.

As early as 2001, the Crock-ett County row-crop farmer stepped out on the leading edge of yield data collection and was one of the first in his region to apply crop nutrients using variable-rate technol-ogy. In 2013, the Mid-South Farmers Cooperative member again established himself as an early adopter by incorporating variable-rate planting, too.

So it was no surprise that when this third-generation Alamo farmer learned about Incompass Ag Technology, Co-op’s new comprehensive precision ag system, he signed on for the program.

Introduced by Tennessee Farmers Cooperative in early 2016, Incompass combines the latest precision agriculture offerings with traditional crop

management tools into one platform, making data collec-tion and analysis easier and more effective.

“Tennessee Farmers Coopera-tive and member co-ops across the state have offered precision ag services for 20 years, “says Alan Sparkman, TFC agronomy marketing manager. “Most of the services offered revolved around geo-referenced soil-testing and variable-rate crop nutrients. But now the program is expanding into other areas such as variable-rate seeding, use of satellite imagery, scouting and recordkeeping. The Co-op system has access to the best software in our industry and, more importantly, the best peo-ple who know how to turn data into decisions for the grower.”

Bill Brooks, manager of Mid-South Farmers’ Alamo location, says he’s already seen how the Incompass program benefits customers like Stoney.

“This year we were able to improve Stoney’s variable-rate planting prescription because

we could really drill down into the data,” says Bill, who worked closely with WinField’s Nicky Burgess, a master accredited agronomist, to focus on man-agement zones on the Hargett farm’s irrigated land. “Using historical yield data, we could

lAlamo

Co-op’s Incompass Ag Technology program combines multiple crop management tools to assist growers

Before he begins planting wheat, Crockett County farmer Stoney Hargett, left, accesses some of his farm data with Tennessee Farmers Cooperative’s new Incompass Ag Technology program. He says Incompass’s tools and the expertise of Bill Brooks, right, manager of Mid-South Farmers Cooperative in Alamo, are a winning combination.

Identifying management zones for variable-rate planting, as seen in the above map, is easier and more efficient with Incompass’s data collection and analysis tools.

Story and photos by Sarah Geyer

December 2016 15

identify zones of lower and higher yield potential under the pivot. By dividing fields into three or four more zones, we could create an even more pre-cise planting prescription for Stoney and strategically place inputs for maximum efficiency and agronomic benefit.”

Bill adds that just a few years ago, this type of detailed analy-sis would have taken a lot longer and a lot more guesswork. However, because Incompass has multiple data collection and analysis tools under one umbrel-la, the agronomist says he can accomplish the task in less time and with more accuracy.

Increased accessibility and speed are results of the pro-gram’s all-inclusive design, which allows data and infor-mation from various sources in a variety of formats to work together, explains Ernie Chap-pell, CEO and president of EFC Systems, the creator of In-compass and TFC’s information technology provider.

“Incompass is a comprehen-sive suite in which a variety of technology tools can seamlessly integrate in one program,” says Ernie. “That alone saves users time and frustration in navigat-ing from one task to another.”

“Being able to work under one platform is huge,” agrees TFC agronomist Trevor Smith. “Any documentation, infor-mation, or data we create or collect on a farm, regardless of what tool we use, can be stored together.”

Geo-referenced maps of each farm’s individual fields are the foundation of the program. At the base level, growers can see the exact acreage of a field, including soil type informa-tion. Layers of data can be added each year to build a field history that includes the soil test information, management zones, variable rate prescrip-tions, as-applied fertilizer and lime maps, scouting reports, satellite images, and yield data.

“With more data, there is more information about a field and zones within that field to make better-informed deci-sions on input management,” explains Alan. “Data analysis tools, combined with advanced agronomic knowledge, help Co-op agronomists and growers make sense of all the data.”

Incompass also integrates seamlessly with WinField’s R7® Tool, which provides seed prod-uct performance information and critical field data to help develop and evaluate variable-rate prescriptions. The R7 Tool features satellite imagery of field maps with historical data, soil variability, and other field information. Local Answer Plot® data allows growers to match the right seed to the soil type and crop management strategy.

The tool is structured around the R7 Placement Strategy, us-ing the right genetics, soil type, plant population, cropping system, traits, plant nutrition, and crop protection. Also listed are the 10 best-performing corn hybrids or soybean variet-ies for a field based on soil type in a selected location, helping agronomists identify the best genetic choices for each field.

“It used to be that there were only a couple of seed varieties, and you stuck with what you knew,” says Stoney, who raises corn, soybeans, and wheat on 3,000 acres with his son, Austin. “Now they change every two years, and there are thousands of choices. I depend on Bill completely when it comes to seed recommenda-tions, and that gives me more time in the field and less time in the office.”

In 2016, a new field scouting application was added to the Incompass suite. This mobile

device-based program is used by a crop scout to identify and electronically record pests, growth stage, crop conditions, and a wide range of field data.

With the scouting applica-tion, Co-op scouts and agrono-mists can access the farmer’s field boundaries in the Incom-pass program. The scout’s route through the field is recorded, and observations are geo-refer-enced. If they notice a problem while walking the field, they can instantly mark a specific spot on the map, take a photo of the area, write observations and rec-ommendations, email that infor-mation to the farmer, and store it in the field’s file — all in real time using only one program on

an iPad or smartphone. All crop protection recommendations can be verified by a CDMS label check within the program to assure the correct application. The scouting report automati-cally becomes part of the field history in Incompass.

Agronomists with First Farmers Cooperative, which has offered customers a struc-tured scouting service for many years, helped field-test the program before it was launched earlier this year.

“This type of technology and recordkeeping gives our scout-ing service even more cred-ibility,” stresses Mike Clayton,

First Farmers Cooperative’s P.R. Morris, left, and Mike Clayton, right, create a scouting report for a customer. In real time, the agronomists can take a photo of a geo-referenced spot in the field, write comments, and instantly send an email to the farmer.

Stoney is one of the first farmers in his region to use variable-rate technology for planting. “If it helps me get the most benefit from my inputs, I’ll try it,” he says.

(See Incompass, page 16)

16 December 2016

(continued from page 15)

Incompass

sales and marketing manager for First Farmers. “It lets us know that the scout was there, and we can actually track his movement throughout the field. Whether it’s used in a structured weekly service like ours or during a spot check by an agronomist driving by, this application is going to be a very valuable tool for both the Co-op and the farmer.”

Along with Incompass’s precision ag capabilities, the program also includes modules for crop budgets and planning, which Trevor says are “two of Incompass’s best features.”

With the planning applica-tion, the grower can determine which crops will be planted, list the seed varieties, designate possible crop protection prod-ucts for each field, and look at pricing scenarios.

That information can be transferred into the budget feature, where the farmer can, on a field-by-field basis, es-

timate costs of inputs, labor, land, equipment, and custom applications.

“What’s really cool is when the farmer creates a plan and budget, that information can be instantly shared with their Co-op store,” says Trevor. “That means orders won’t have to be rewritten, inventories can be updated, and future services scheduled.”

Incompass has the capabil-ity to share information with Merchant Ag, Co-op’s retail accounting program, because both programs were developed by EFC Systems.

“What we’ve created here — one company providing solu-tions for both the retail and in-field sides of agriculture — is really pretty special,” explains Ernie. “There are probably 10 other companies who offer ac-counting software and another six who offer tools for precision ag, but we’re the only company who offers both, which I think over time will help bring more efficiency to both the farmer and the Co-op.”

Back in Alamo, Stoney Hargett admits he doesn’t have to understand every aspect of a technology tool to believe in it.

“If I can see that it will help me maximize my return on investment, I’ll give it a try,” he says. “With Bill helping me in-terpret the data and giving me his recommendations, I know

Agronomy trainee Julia Shell, left, works with Incompass’s planning module features with help from EFC Systems precision agronomy specialist Kyle Owen.

I’m making the best choices for my farm because I have faith — in both my Co-op and the technology.”

For more information, visit www.incompassag.com or talk with crop experts at your local Co-op. You can also view a video about the program at http://bit.ly/Incompass.

December 2016 17

18 December 2016

New at Co-op

LockNLube Grease Coupler

LockNLube Grease Buster

Ramik® Mole & Gopher

The LockNLube Grease Coupler (#163300) is compatible with all grease guns and fittings. It does not leak once locked on and will not pop off under pressure. No hands are needed to align or hold the coupler in place while greasing. It has a unique sliding sleeve, acti-vated by a thumb lever. The sleeve locks the four spring-steel jaws onto the zerk fitting and releases the jaws by pushing on the thumb lever. When the jaws are locked onto the zerk, a leak-proof seal is created. The locked connection is positive and rigid, preventing the coupler from coming loose and breaking the leak-proof seal. If a fitting, especially a recessed one, becomes pressurized, just depress the thumb lever and release the coupler.

The LockNLube Grease Buster (#163310) is the answer to the com-mon problem of plugged-up grease fittings and bearings in machinery. The Grease Buster consists of a heavy-duty, adjustable hydraulic coupler, cylinder, and a piston with a knob. To use, remove the pis-ton. Fill the cylinder by pouring in a penetrating oil. Start the piston back into the cylinder. Place the tool onto the grease fitting and, by tapping the piston, force the solvent into the fitting and/or bearing. Repeat if necessary.

Ramik Mole & Gopher Rodenticide (#6816013) utilizes the proven and effective Ramik green nugget bait form to control moles and pocket gophers in below-ground applications in lawns and flower beds.Features:• Ramik Green rodenticides are formulated without wax for high palatability and weatherability.• Contains a food-quality grain mix.• Utilizes the proven and effective Ramik green nugget bait form.• Moles and gophers may die within 4-5 days after a lethal dose is consumed.

Farm Innovators Model HM-60P Heated Chicken MatFarm Innovators Model HM-60P Heated Chicken Mat (#6816387) provides your flock with a warm place to rest during cold winter months. It’s ideal for baby chicks to adults in coops, nesting areas and pens. The mat is constructed of durable, easy-to-clean, high-impact ABS plastic and is thermo-statically controlled to operate automatically. A red indica-tor light shows when the unit is operating. The mat can be mounted vertically or horizontally. One-year limited warranty. This 13-x-19-inch, 60-watt unit will not provide radiant heat-ing to warm your coop.

Enduraplas Field Boss Xstream Sprayer

Enduraplas 12-Volt Pro Series Sprayer

The Enduraplas Field Boss Xstream Sprayer features a 100 percent new drainable tank design that makes it easier to clean your tank without having to mix chemicals. The built-in sight glass kit allows you to view the liquid level from your seat while the spring-loaded control arm allows the user to manage boom options. Any Endur-plas boom (not included) can be attached in minutes. Unit features a GX120 Honda pump, maintaining pressure even with the larger booms. A heavy-duty, 100 percent poly hose reel is also included. Easily load and unload the sprayer with integrated fork points. Avail-able in a 60-gallon model (#179320) or 100-gallon model (#179321).

Enduraplas 12-Volt Pro Series Sprayer (#179340) is a 55-gal-lon professional series spot sprayer that is fitted with a reliable 12-volt, 4-gpm, 100-psi Delavan pump. Features a manual bypass regulator to maintain steady line pressure and includes 15 feet of coiled chemical-resistant hose. The Pow-erjet spray gun has an adjustable brass nozzle for accurate spot spraying. A 30-foot boomless nozzle is included.

December 2016 19

New at Co-op

MADE IN LAVERGNE, TN

LONGER LASTING FEEDERS

SEE YOUR LOCAL CO-OP TODAY!

GALVANIZED CLEAR COATOWNED BY YOU.

BUILT FOR YOU.

herdsman Mineral feeder• 4’ base resists tipping

• Grease fitting keeps hood turning

• Large molded in wind vane

• Large capacity Roto-Molded hood – Easy to fill

• Tow hook welded on base for easy movement

with ATV

15440

• 3 Easy to bolt together sections

• 1 hardware package with all chains, snap

hooks, and assembly hardware

• Snap hooks allow center bars to come apart

quickly and easily to remove strings

• 12 Ga. tubing with clear coat galvanize

provides long lasting durability

156481

Co-op 10-ft. Bunk feeder• One piece molded poly tub

• 11-in. deep x 26 ½-in. wide x 20-in. high

• Deep dish trough design for maximum feed

capacity

15700

• All galvanized construction

• 1 ¼” x 12 ga. tubing

• 3-ft. chain and keyhole attachment easily

hooks up to other panels or posts

15657 - 8 ft.

15658 - 10 ft.

15659 - 12 ft.

SUPER HEAVYDUTY Feeder

Super heavyduty panel

Enduraplas Marshal Plus+ SprayerEnduraplas Marshal Plus+ Sprayer (#179325) is a compact, space-saving, 60-gallon sprayer with built-in, easy-lift handles for improved maneuverability. This motorized skid sprayer is configured to fit in most UTV boxes and is easy to load in and out, even side-by-side. UV-stabilized poly tank has a spill control lip around the lid. Powerful 2.9-gpm, 360-psi 4-stroke Honda engine. Adjustable turbo action spray gun for a range of spraying patterns; sprays up to 24 feet. User-friendly Sprayer features a separate 21⁄2-gallon, fresh-water, hand-wash tank and 100 feet of 1⁄2-inch-diameter hose. Plus, you get an adjustable turbo atomizer for multi-spraying capabilities and two extra outlets for convenient boom connection.

Worksaver Spin-Off Round Bale FeederWorksaver Spin-Off Round Bale Feeder is designed as an effi-cient hay management tool for moving and feeding round bales. The Worksaver Spin-Off hydraulically rotates the bale, unwind-ing the hay into a windrow. Rotates in both directions for easy feeding and allows the operator to unroll what the cattle will clean up in one hour, eliminating wasted hay. Also, by chang-ing the feeding location each day, the operator can eliminate manure buildup. Available in three models and designed to fit Category II or Category III 3-point hitches (WSFSO-96), front loaders (WSFLSO907) and skid steers (SSSO908). All models are hydraulically driven for better operator control, provide easy operation from the cab of tractors or skid steers, and feature a forged, tapered spear for easier bale penetration. All have a usable spear length of 53 inches.

SPORTMiX® CanineX™

SPORTMiX CanineX will help your dog endure any daily activ-ity by providing the nutrition he needs for sustained energy, muscle function, and mental fo-cus. The supplemental Xtreme pack provides a revolutionary compound of Antarctic krill meal and L-carnitine for added nutritional power. SPORTMiX CanineX is 100 percent guaran-teed for taste and nutrition. Available in 40-pound packages in either beef (#903115) or chicken (#903108) flavors.

20 December 2016

Royce Towns

TFC Nutritionist

Neighborly AdviceAnimal Health

Begin-ning Jan. 1,

2017, the Food and Drug Ad-ministration (FDA) will require a Veterinary Feed Direc-tive (VFD)

for all medically important antibiotics (those significant in human and animal health) administered in feed and a veterinary prescription for all medically important antibiotics used in water. This regulation is designed to address public health concerns about antimi-crobial resistance in humans by providing veterinary oversight of therapeutic use of these products. The accompanying chart lists the feed compounds, along with their commonly used trade names, that will be transitioning to VFD status.

A VFD is a written (non-verbal) statement issued by a licensed veterinarian in the course of his or her professional practice that authorizes use of a VFD drug in or on an animal feed. This written statement authorizes the client (the animal owner or caretaker) to obtain and use animal feed containing a VFD drug to treat the client’s animals only in accordance with the conditions of use approved by the FDA.

Information required on a lawful VFD order will include:

• Veterinarian’s name, ad-dress, and phone number

• Client’s name, address, and phone number

• Premises where the feed will be used

• VFD issuance and expira-tion date (6 months maximum)

• Name of animal drug• Level of drug and duration

of use• Indication for which VFD

is issued

• Species and production class of animals to receive medication

• Approximate number of animals to receive medication

• Withdrawal period• Cautions and special in-

structions.Your responsibilities as a

producer are to:• Provide a copy of the VFD

to the feed distributor• Only give VFD feeds to

animals based on a valid VFD

Understanding the Veterinary Feed Directive• Do not feed a VFD product

after the VFD expiration date• Maintain a copy of the VFD

for a minimum of two years• Provide VFD orders for

FDA inspection upon request.It is a simple process to

obtain a VFD from your veteri-narian, but now is the time to establish a valid relationship if you don’t have one. Also be aware that Co-op will have a number of non-VFD products to meet your production goals.

December 2016 21

Hot, hu-mid

weather in the sum-mer often causes concerns about horses becoming

dehydrated, particularly if we are working them. However, dehydration can be just as significant of an issue during colder months.

A mature, healthy horse will consume, on average, 1 gallon of water per 100 pounds of body weight daily. Water plays many critical roles in the body, but during the winter, it is especially important in maintaining gas-trointestinal health and motility. Without adequate water intake, horses are at greater risk for choke and impaction colic.

So why does water intake matter? For the most part,

Neighborly Advice Equine

each fall our horses transition from a diet that is primarily composed of fresh forage to one composed of primarily hay. The moisture content of fresh pasture is typically 75 to 80 percent. At that level of mois-ture, our horses are obtaining as much as 8 to 15 gallons of water per day just by eat-ing pasture. Hay, on the other hand, is typically 10 to 12 per-cent moisture and contributes less than 0.5 gallon of water per day, which means horses must drink more fluid water to meet their daily water require-ments (10 to 12 gallons).

To complicate the issue further, water intake is affected by water temperature during winter. In fact, water tem-perature affects intake more than the ambient temperature. Research shows that ponies housed outdoors during the winter drink approximately 40 percent less water when the water is icy (32 degrees) com-

pared to when it’s lukewarm (66 degrees).

In addition to dehydration, reduced water intake will also significantly decrease overall feed intake. It has been shown that horses will decrease their hay intake as much as 45 percent in response to reduced water intake. During cold months when horses need all the additional calories they can get to maintain themselves, we do not need them to go off feed because of reduced water consumption.

So, what can we do? Main-taining an adequate water sup-ply is key. The ideal water tem-perature for horses is between 45 and 65 degrees. Using a heated bucket or a tank heater can help maintain water tem-perature close to that range. Without a tank heater, consider adding a couple of buckets of hot water to the tank each morning or evening to help encourage consumption.

In winter, water intake still mattersBe sure to monitor consump-

tion. Knowing what your horse typically drinks will help you identify abnormal behavior. More often than not, we see choke and colic issues immedi-ately following a cold snap — during which the horse drinks less water because it’s too cold for consumption.

What about soaking feeds? Unfortunately, there’s not a lot we can do to affect the moisture content of a horse’s diet unless we want to soak the feedstuffs. This can work well for senior feeds, beet pulp, or hay cubes. Because of dental issues, senior horses often do not adequately chew their feeds. When you combine inadequate mastication with reduced saliva production (due to aging), the risk of choke or impaction colic increases dra-matically. For this reason, soak-ing feeds can be beneficial but should not replace an adequate water supply.

Dr. Jennifer Earing

TFC Nutritionist

22 December 2016

For Colby Counce and Chase Long of Lawrence-burg, it’s a busy day on

their 18,000-acre farm.They’re harvesting corn, load-

ing grain bins, chopping and wrapping silage, baling hay, feed-ing cattle, Bush Hogging fence-rows, pulling a stuck sprayer out of the mud, and tearing down a dilapidated “Rock City” barn to make way for a more modern farm building.

Seems pretty typical for a Tennessee row-crop and beef operation, right? But this is

no ordinary farm. It’s a 1/64th scale model designed and built by Colby and Chase, longtime friends and real-life farmers who share a serious devotion to this playful pastime.

Billed as the “world’s largest model farm,” the display cov-ers a space 40 feet long and 6 feet wide with a highly detailed collection of customized farm toys, modified model railroad buildings, and countless creative touches by Colby, 20, and Chase, 23. For about 10 years, the boyhood buddies have worked together on the project, which started innocently enough with a birthday gift.

“When I was 5 or 6 years old, I was given a model train dis-play,” says Chase. “I didn’t care anything about trains. All I cared about was tractors and farming. So I started converting that dis-play into little farm scenes, and I played with that thing all the

time. Of course, none of it was to scale because I was just a kid.”

Soon, the display covered a 6-by-8-foot table and kept expanding, eventually taking up two walls of his bedroom. When Colby came to visit, the two friends would build new scenes together. Eventu-ally, Colby assembled a model farm at his house, too, and the friends decided it was time to combine their creations and share them publicly.

They set up the consoli-dated display for the first time eight years ago at Lawrence-burg’s Crossroads of Dixie Antique Tractor Show and Pull, which their fathers, Rus-sell Counce and Darren Long, helped organize in 1997. The families are members of Law-rence Farmers Cooperative.

“At that point, it wasn’t but about 25 feet long and didn’t look nearly as good as it does now,” says Chase. “But every year, we keep making it bigger, adding new things, and im-proving it.”

Viewing the display at the 20th annual tractor show this past August, Jim Franks of Leoma says he looks forward to seeing what’s new with the model farm each year.

“This is about as good as it gets,” he says. “I’ve been coming to this thing since the beginning, and I’ve watched these kids grow up here. Their display keeps getting better and more realistic every year. They put things in it that no one else would ever think of. You’ve got to see it to believe it.”

lLawrenceburg

Farm toy display provides big fun on a small scale for Lawrence County’s Colby Counce and Chase Long

Childhood friends Colby Counce, left, and Chase Long of Lawrenceburg share a love of agriculture and passion for building model-scale farm scenes. They now share their unique creation, the “American Dream,” with the public at events like the annual Crossroads of Dixie Tractor Show at the Lawrence County Fairgrounds in August.

Tim McMahan enjoys the model farm display with his 27-month-old son, J.T.

The best way to see the entire model is from a bird’s-eye view. The display is 40 feet long and 6 feet wide and represents a total of 18,000 acres with both beef cattle and row-crop operations.

Story and photos by Allison Jenkins

December 2016 23

In addition to the tractor show, Colby and Chase also set up their display at the Lawrence County Fair in September as well as the West Tennessee Farm Toy Show in Jackson each November.

Then last February, through their families’ tractor-pulling connections, they were invited to exhibit the model farm at the biggest venue yet — the huge, highly popular Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Ky., which is attended by more than 300,000 people. Colby and Chase had about five months’ notice to rework the display, add new scenes, and create an attractive barn wood skirt to surround the tabletops. They say the response was well worth the effort. The model farm drew droves of fas-cinated farmers and praise from the show organizers.

“That was better than Disney World to us,” says Colby. “The whole time we were there, it was packed. You couldn’t get a spot open to see the table. The CEO of the show came by, saw every-one looking at it, and came over to us and said, ‘It was a good idea that we got this up here. If y’all want to come back next year, your spot’s available!’ It was awe-some and crazy.”

The interest is understandable because the details are dazzling: A white-tailed deer peeks out from the cornstalks. A field is

marked by tracks from the center pivot irrigation. Cattle gaps pro-tect gate openings. A truck box has tiny tools under its lid. The men stacking square bales on the trailer are dressed as Amish, a nod to their prominence in the Lawrence County area.

The farmers’ ingenuity shows throughout the display. Har-vested “cornstalks” are made from broken pieces of toothpicks — 88,000 of them! Tubes of plastic-wrapped “silage” bales are made from a wooden dowel covered with white electrical tape. “Gravel” is actually ground limestone, and the wagonload of “grain” is garlic powder.

Some pieces are built from scratch, such as the grain bins crafted from plastic styrene and a silage chopper made from a solid piece of aluminum by Chase, who works as a part-time machinist. Other components are bought and then modified for authenticity.

“There are no ready-made kits for model farms out there, so we use a lot of model railroad mate-rials,” says Chase. “You have to rescale the train pieces to figure out how to match them to the rest of our display.”

Many of the settings are imag-ined, while others are modeled after real life.

“The square-baling scene was picked right out of Lawrence County,” says Colby. “There’s a

guy down here who has a tractor and square baler just like that. And a guy who runs our sprayer got it stuck in the field one day, so that’s why we have that scene. We did that for him!”

The Rock City barn was another familiar feature for their community, where the iconic advertising used to be found all along Highway 64, a thorough-fare to the famed tourist attrac-tion near Chattanooga.

“I love those Rock City barns, so I wanted to put one in our display,” says Chase. “But it got destroyed on the way to Louis-ville, and we realized we couldn’t fix it. So we decided to set it up like it was being torn down.”

Aptly named the “American Dream,” the model farm reflects the different interests and vision of the young producers, who are just getting their start in agricul-tural careers of their own. The display is split down the middle by a “creek,” with Chase’s side representing a 500-head beef operation on 3,000 acres and Colby’s half replicating a 15,000-acre row-crop farm.

“We built this all together, but we set it up how we’d each want our own dream farm to be,” explains Chase. “My side has cows because I love cows. He’s all about row-cropping, so that’s what his side looks like.”

“We’re in a property battle over the creek,” Colby jokes. “We

The model farm is highly detailed with scenes that are either inspired by real life or imagined as features from the “dream” farms of Colby and Chase. LEFT: This depiction of an iconic “Rock City” barn shows the dilapidated structure being torn down. CENTER: The harvested “corn” in this scene is actually garlic powder and the “stalks” are made from broken toothpicks. RIGHT: Colby says this scenario of a sprayer stuck in the field was based on an experience on his own farm.

LEFT: Farm hands help stack square bales onto a trailer. Colby and Chase customized the figures to represent the Amish population that’s prominent in the Lawrence County agricultural community. RIGHT: Chase’s side of the display is designed as a 500-head beef farm. In this scene, a mixer wagon distributes dinner in the feed yard.

aggravate each other all the time about who ‘owns’ it.”

Like most young farmers, they’re eager to expand. Right now, they’re considering adding a cotton field, a country church, and maybe even a Co-op store.

Arranged on nine differ-ent tables with a wooden 2-x-4 framework, the entire spread currently takes about 12 hours to assemble. Each piece is painstak-ingly placed on the set, and then removed and packaged back up until it’s time to exhibit again.

Yes, it’s a lot of work but also a lot of fun, the friends say. They get to play with toys in their 20s and watch others — both young and young at heart — marvel at their model masterpiece.

“We’re always coming up with new ideas, and we love for people to see our work,” says Chase. “What started as kids wanting to show off our toys has grown into something so much bigger, and we don’t plan to stop anytime soon. We love it.”

Co-op managers and di-rectors attending Tennessee Farmers Cooperative’s annual meeting Nov. 27-28 in Nashville will have a chance to see the “American Dream” model farm as part of the accompanying trade show, and the display will also return to the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville Feb. 15-18, 2017.

24 December 2016

December 2016 25

Holding her 2016 Beef Champion of Champions is Abby Tipton of Greenback.

Stacey Coleman of Lee’s Dixieland Dairy in Smyrna took home the 2016 Dairy Champion of Champions award at the 2016 Tennessee State Fair.

Apple pie takes the cake at 2016 Tennessee State Fair Crust:

3 cups flour1 1⁄2 cups lard1 teaspoon salt1 tablespoon white vinegar1 egg, beaten5 tablespoons ice-cold

waterPie:3 pounds apples (4 Granny

Smith, 3 Honeycrisp)2⁄3 cup brown sugar5 tablespoons granulated

sugar3 tablespoons cornstarch1 teaspoon cinnamon1⁄4 teaspoon nutmeg1⁄4 teaspoon salt4-6 tablespoons flourTo make crust, place flour

and salt in a large bowl; stir. Add lard. Using a pastry cutter or food processor, cut lard into flour/salt mixture until fully combined. Add beaten egg, vinegar, and water; knead with hands until well combined. Divide dough into two equal pieces, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and place in the refrigerator for one hour.

Colleen Krause receives a cash prize and Co-op cutting board and apron from Tennessee State Fair Association board member Bill Carter for her winning entry in this year’s State Fair Apple Pie Contest.

A novice baker took top honors in the 2016 Tennessee State Fair Apple Pie Contest, sponsored by Tennessee Farm-ers Cooperative.

Colleen Krause of Hermit-age, who says she started baking pies for the first time this summer, beat 35 other entries to win the first-place prize, which included cash and a custom Co-op cutting board and apron.

Emily Drucker of Murfrees-boro finished second in the contest, and third went to The-resa Fleetwood of Franklin.

Colleen shares her winning pie recipe at right.

To make filling, combine sugars, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl. Peel apples, remove cores, slice in half, and then cut into 1⁄4-inch slices. Place in bowl with other ingredi-ents; toss well until apples are covered with sugar mixture.

Remove crust from refrig-erator. Lightly dust countertop with flour. Unwrap one por-tion of dough and roll out to approximately 12 inches wide. Press into pie plate, leaving extra crust hanging over the edge. Pour apple filling into pan, neatly arranging slices.

Repeat rolling instructions for second portion of dough; place on top of pie. Cut edges to approximately 1 inch beyond the edge; fold under around pie pan. Cut vents in the top crust; brush with water or egg white for extra sheen. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon granulated sugar on top

Bake at 375° for 60 to 75 minutes, until filling is bubbly and crust browned.

Colleen Krause’s Apple Pie

As part of Tennessee Farm-ers Cooperative’s sponsorship of the 2016 Tennessee State Fair, Co-op was the title sponsor of the “Champion of Champions” shows for junior exhibitors of dairy, poultry, and beef.

Competitors in the beef event were champions in each of the eight breed shows held during the state fair Sept. 9-18 in Nashville. Those competing for the title in dairy and poultry divisions were winners from vari-ous county fairs across Tennessee. This “best of” contest recognizes the accomplish-ments of youth livestock exhibi-tors and encour-ages participation in the state event from county fairs.

Winner of the beef heifer division was Abby Tipton of TTT Farm in Greenback. Stacey Coleman of Lee’s Dixieland Dairy in Smyrna was named champion of the dairy cate-gory. Taking home the top title in the poultry division was Mike Sorrells of Petersburg.

The 2016 Poultry Champion of Champions title was awarded to the entry by Mike Sorrells of Petersburg.

Youth win ‘Champion of Champions’ honors at 2016 Tennessee State Fair

26 December 2016

One look was all it took for Ted Cook to know that Ed Ford Jr. was the right per-

son to help train his bird dogs.The two were competitors at a

2012 National Shoot To Retrieve Association (NSTRA) field trial in Corbin, Ky. After watching Ed’s dogs skillfully navigate the course to find birds that day, Ted reached out to him.

“Of all the people I’ve watched run dogs in trials, Ed impressed me more than anyone I had seen in quite a while,” says

Ted, who raises four different breeds of bird dogs and owns Cook Tire Co., Inc., in neighbor-ing London, Ky. “He just had a way of getting the most out of his dogs. When I started looking for someone to help train mine, Ed was the first person I thought of. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

It was a decision of his own in 2010 that led Ed to transi-tion Thunder King Kennels, the Lenoir City operation he began some 15 years ago, from a part-

time to full-time endeav-or. On his family’s farm just off Highway 321, he trains and raises all pointing breeds — Brit-tanys, English pointers, English setters, and German shorthairs. The kennel usually has 30 to 40 dogs year-round and Ed also pen-raises bob-white quail for training purposes and field trials.

“I had been training dogs for buddies of mine and selling a few young dogs and quite a few pups, but that was only when I could find the time,” he says, explain-ing that he was running the kennel while work-

ing for his father’s Knoxville-area business, Ed Ford Excavating. “When the economy took a hit toward the end of 2008, it re-ally hurt the family business. I started training more dogs, and when one thing led to another, I decided to go full-speed ahead with Thunder King.”

Now, owners from across the U.S. send their dogs to Ed for:

• Basic training, which teaches dogs to “come,” “heel,” and “whoa.”

• Bird dog training, which introduces the animals to birds and teaches them to hold point so birds can be flushed, then retrieved.

• Refresher courses, which help hunting and trialing dogs sharpen their skills.

• Retrieve training, which includes the practice of “force breaking” to teach dogs to re-trieve birds on command rather than by natural instincts.

“I’ve had dogs in here from almost every state at one time or another,” says the 45-year-old trainer who’s been bird hunting since the age of 8. “Every one of them is different.

You’ve got to read the dog a lot to be able to tell when it’s ready to move to the next step. Some dogs can take a lot of pressure, while others have to be handled with kid gloves.”

Ed says that, on average, he trains 12 to 15 dogs per day, giv-ing each at least 30 minutes of ground time.

“Add to that cleaning ken-nels, feeding dogs, and feed-ing birds, and you have a busy day — from daylight to dark,” he says. “There are times when you want to pull your hair out of your head, but you’ve just got to have a lot of patience.”

Ed adds that while he likes to start training these pointing breeds as puppies, he doesn’t want to overdo the process.

“I try not to get in a big hurry,” he says. “These puppies need to be able to play and chase four-wheelers or butterflies or whatever else they want.”

Word about Ed’s “magic touch” with bird dogs continues to spread, especially among the members of NSTRA. The non-profit association was founded in 1978 by hunters looking to hold field trials as a way to extend the use of their dogs. Ed is president of NSTRA’s Dixie Region, which encompasses the

Dan, a 9-year-old English pointer, exhibits perfect pointing form as he stands motionless with his nose thrust forward and tail raised upward to indicate a bird has been located. The skilled hunting dog is one of several trained by Ed Ford Jr. of Thunder King Kennels in Lenoir City. Ed’s been training and raising all pointing breeds for more than 15 years.

Ed has trained dogs such as Woody, a 4-year-old Brittany, from all parts of the U.S.

Story and photos by Chris Villines

lLenoir City

December 2016 27

For more information about Thunder King Kennels, call Ed Ford Jr. at 865-389-7512 or visit www.thunderkingkennels.com. To learn more about the Nation-al Shoot To Retrieve Association, visit www.nstra.org.

And to learn more about Black Gold Premium Dog Food, visit with the professionals at your local Co-op.

eastern half of Ten-nessee, and travels most every weekend from September through June to take part in field trials.

It was at one of these trials that he met another one of his current clients, Gene Pritchett of Jesup, Ga.

“We’ve become good friends,” says Gene, a Georgia Power Company employee who raises German shorthairs. “I like that Ed shoots straight with you. If a dog’s ca-pable of running a trial, he’ll tell you, or if he thinks it’s just going to be a good hunting dog, he’ll tell you that, too.

“Ed doesn’t do a ‘one-size-fits-all’ kind of training. The attitude or demeanor of the dog dictates what type of training he’ll use. I’m impressed with that.”

As his reputation has grown, Ed says he’s noticed an increase in the number of “problem dogs” he’s been tasked to train.

“When people have a dog with a listening problem, a handling problem, a ‘can’t-hold-a-bird’ problem, or a retrieving problem, I’m their last hope,” he notes. “I have to figure out how to make it do what the customer wants it to do. Most of the time, I’ve been able to fix the dog. I’ve never sent one back that wasn’t somewhat better.”

Besides providing these canine athletes with the proper training, encouragement, and living conditions, Ed says good nutrition is imperative. For that, the dogs at Thunder King re-ceive Black Gold Premium Dog Food that Ed purchases from Cumberland Farmers Coopera-tive in Crossville. He gives his dogs one of two Black Gold varieties: 32/21 Super Blend (#232216) or 26/18 Premium Performance (#226185).

“For competition dogs and those dogs expecting puppies, I like the 32/21 a lot,” Ed says. “I’ve given a lot of different dog feeds over the years, and I’ve never had one that’s better at keeping moms up and puppies looking good.”

He says the formulas of both the 32/21— 32 percent protein, 21 percent fat — and 26/18 — 26 percent protein, 18 percent fat — provide ample fuel for these active animals.

“A handful of Black Gold goes a long way,” he stresses. “You don’t have to supplement much. With other feeds, I felt like I needed to.”

Having a trainer of Ed’s stat-ure place his trust in Black Gold has encouraged fellow dog-own-ers to try the brand, according to Cumberland Farmers Co-op sales associate Daniel Green.

“We’ve sold a lot of Black Gold to other customers thanks to Ed,” says Daniel. “We tell folks about Ed being a trainer and choosing to use Black Gold, and they’re impressed by that. He’s helped us a lot, so we try to help him all we can, too.”

Ed says he appreciates the fact that the Co-op is his one-stop shop for Thunder King Kennels’ needs.

“With my schedule, I don’t have time to go to a lot of differ-ent stores for this and that,” he emphasizes. “I need to be able to go to one store and get every-thing so I can get back home. I can do that at the Co-op.”

With 100 acres at his dispos-al, Ed has lots of space back in Lenoir City to keep on training these four-legged friends of bird hunters like John Rawdin of Foosland, Ill.

“I have complete confidence in Ed,” says John, who owns English pointers. “The wrong trainer can destroy a dog in a day. But Ed reads them very, very well. I’ve recommended him to several other people.”

Ed says the kind words from customers like John serve as inspiration and motivation.

“There are very few people around who are able to make a living at what I do,” he confess-es. “I’m fortunate enough to be able to get by, and I’m living out my dream. It’s a blessing.”

LEFT: During a training exercise, Zax, a 6-year-old male English setter, completes the retrieval process by placing a bird into Ed’s waiting hands. RIGHT: Ed and Cumberland Farmers Cooperative sales associate Daniel Green praise 2-year-old English pointer Fred for a good training session.

LEFT: Fred takes off in pursuit of a plastic bottle during “force breaking” training. RIGHT: With a bucket full of Black Gold Premium Dog Food in tow, Ed completes the daily feeding ritual at Thunder King. He partners with Cumberland Farmers Co-op for the dogs’ feed and other supplies. Ed also competes with select dogs at National Shoot To Retrieve Association field trials across the country.

Zax retrieves a downed quail and gently cradles it in his mouth en route to Ed.

28 December 2016

December 2016 29

Challenges posed by livestock abuse in-vestigations were the

focus of this year’s “Livestock 911” workshops organized by the Farm Animal Care Coali-tion of Tennessee (FACCT) in cooperation with its supporting organizations such as Tennessee Farmers Cooperative.

First held in fall 2015, the event was designed to educate law enforcement, Extension, emergency managers, and other personnel about livestock wel-fare, threats to animal agricul-ture, and procedures for report-ing and prosecuting livestock neglect and abuse allegations.

Because of the popularity of last year’s “Livestock 911,” organizers expanded it to three different workshops — one in each Grand Division of the state. Events were held in Lex-ington Oct. 18, Murfreesboro Oct. 19, and Knoxville Oct. 20.

“After we did our one event in Franklin last year, we sur-

veyed all those who attended to find out what they did and did not like and how to improve the program,” says Lou Nave, executive director of FACCT. “The biggest issue was that we needed to have more than one location to make it more ac-cessible to law enforcement officers.”

At each workshop, Dr. Lew Strickland, University of Tennes-see Extension veterinarian, gave a hands-on lesson in body condi-tion scoring to assess health and nutritional status of livestock.

“Attendees felt that the hands-on training was important,” says Nave. “Dr. Strickland gave some valuable information on how to recognize body condition, point-ing out that old animals look differently than young animals. They scored cattle and horses so that a law enforcement officer could look at an animal and know when to call for help.”

Another featured speaker was Hannah Thompson-Weeman,

communications director for the Animal Agriculture Alliance, who shared how the animal rights movement is affecting agricul-ture across the country.

“That gave the law enforce-ment personnel a different perspective of how activists try to infiltrate the industry,” says Nave, adding that plans are to host three locations of the Live-stock 911 series again next year.

FACCT serves as a resource for the public and farmers regarding humane care, well-being issues, and best manage-ment practices for farm animals. The Co-op system has been a staunch supporter and sponsor of FACCT since its start in 2011 and donated $25,000 to the organization this year.

For more information, visit online at www.tnfacct.com.

Participants in the Oct. 19 Farm Animal Care Coalition of Tennessee “Livestock 911” workshop in Murfreesboro get a hands-on lesson in horse body condition scoring from Dr. Lew Strickland, second from left, University of Tennessee Extension veterinarian.

‘Livestock 911’ workshops focus on challenges of animal abuse allegations

30 December 2016

December 2016 31

More than 130 runners participated in the Fourth An-nual Dairy Hill Stampede 5K and 10K races on Sept. 17 in Lascassas. Staged at the Middle Tennessee State University Laboratory and Experiential Center, the event benefited the Farm Animal Care Coalition of Tennessee (FACCT) and the Veterans Recovery Center Council.

The Dairy Hill Stampede began in 2013, offering the ag-riculture community an oppor-tunity to raise funds for FACCT and work with the veterans community as co-beneficiary of the race.

Farm-fresh MTSU choco-late milk awaited runners as they topped the hill for the final time, and members of the MTSU Lady Raiders basketball team and their coach, Rick In-sell, were on hand to welcome runners to the finish line with custom cow bell medals.

“The Dairy Hill Stampede allows runners from across the midstate to venture out into the country to run on a unique course and experience a bit of our agriculture community,” stated Phyllis Ferguson, presi-dent of FACCT. “Not every-one starts their day with dairy cattle, chocolate milk, and a run along tree-covered country roads.”

Rutherford Farmers Coop-erative was among the spon-sors, which also included H

30 Aquatics, Rutherford County Farm Bureau, Redstone Federal Credit Union, Tennessee Beef Industry Council, TriGreen Equipment, U.S. Military Vets MC, Nave Truck Sales, Bumpus Harley Davidson, and MTSU School of Agribusiness/Agriscience.

“We appreciate the support of all our sponsors and runners in making this Fourth Annual Dairy Hill Stampede a success,” said Lou Nave, FACCT execu-tive director.

For information about the Dairy Hill Stampede or FACCT, call 615-970-8065 or visit on-line at www.tnfacct.com.

‘Stampede’ raises funds for FACCT

Runners gather early on the morning of Sept. 17 to participate in the Dairy Hill Stampede 5K and 10K races near Murfreesboro.

32 December 2016

December 2016 33

34 December 2016

In 1999, Kyle Wilson was hard at work building fence when he realized it would

help keep whitetail deer from crossing his hilltop property in Knoxville. That’s when he came to an ironic conclusion:

Why not put reindeer inside the fence?

“It was something that came to me on a whim,” says Kyle, who had spent the bulk of his ca-reer in the automotive industry. “I started researching reindeer at the library but couldn’t find anything of substance. But I did find the Reindeer Owners and Breeders Association [ROBA] online and immediately joined.”

Not surprisingly, there were some who thought Kyle had taken a blow to the noggin when he shared his plan. Raising rein-deer in Tennessee? That, doubt-ers reasoned, would be as futile an effort as trying to grow a corn crop at the North Pole. After all, reindeer are traditionally known to live in frigid places like the Arctic and parts of Northern Europe.

“I told him he was nuts,” laughs Greg Hoisington, a fellow

ROBA member who, with wife Lynn, owns four reindeer along with an assortment of other ani-mals at their Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo in Sevierville. “I said that reindeer were difficult to raise and to save himself some grief since he didn’t know anything about them at the time.”

Undeterred, Kyle cemented his decision to move forward with the new venture in Octo-ber 1999 after he attended a seminar in upstate New York to learn about raising and breeding reindeer.

“I got to meet with other people who owned reindeer, officials with the USDA [U.S. Department of Agriculture], and veterinarians, and they gave me a lot of confidence that I could successfully do this,” Kyle says. “When I left, I told myself the idea was just crazy enough to work. I immediately made some calls to breeders so I could get my hands on some reindeer.

I started hunting for feed and more fencing, too.”

The first three reindeer, pur-chased from a breeder in Texas, arrived at Kyle’s newly named Rocky Hill Reindeer in January 2000. He has steadily grown the business, increasing his herd to 20 and offering services that include sales of reindeer and antlers they’ve shed, sales and leasing of sleighs, and what really keeps his truck’s odometer roll-ing this time of year — leasing

and renting reindeer. Leases are for those who plan to keep the reindeer for an extended period of up to six weeks, while rentals are usually one-day events.

Kyle estimates that between October and early January, he travels to more than 30 locations across the Eastern U.S., put-ting some 30,000 miles on his vehicle.

“The holiday season is a blur,” says Kyle, who also has two full taxidermy reindeer available for

Some 4,200 miles south of the North Pole, Kyle Wilson is successfully raising reindeer in a much different climate — East Tennessee. His Rocky Hill Reindeer farm boasts 20 head of the majestic animal that’s best known for guiding Santa Claus atop roofs on Christmas Eve. Kyle launched the venture “on a whim” 17 years ago.

Kyle shows Sevier Farmers Cooperative sales associate Joe Woods antlers naturally shed from his reindeer. Kyle sells these antlers to the public.

lKnoxville

Story and photos by Chris Villines

December 2016 35

rent or short-term lease. “I stay booked up. I could do so many more events, but there aren’t enough days! A lot of folks want to see ‘Rudolph.’ It’s a big part of my business and has helped make me profitable.”

Kyle says his leasing and rent-al customers run the gamut from shopping centers and Christmas tree farms to private parties, cor-porate events, and parades.

“I’ve been called on by cruise-ship lines, railroad companies, you name it,” he says. “There’s no limit to my customer base.”

Kyle’s reindeer have graced the big screen, too, appearing in music videos, television commer-cials, and the 2012 movie “Elf Man.”

Shane Dabbs, who owns Santa Land in Rogersville, Ala., has leased two reindeer from Kyle each year since he opened the Christmas-themed attraction in 2014. He says the joy he sees when visitors encounter “Dash-er” and “Prancer” makes it worth the investment.

“The first thing people do when they get here is make a beeline for the reindeer pen,” says Shane, who keeps the rein-deer for a six-week period that begins just before Thanksgiving. “Having them ties everything together to make the picture of Christmas complete. And Kyle is so helpful and knowledgeable about his deer.”

When it comes to feeding the reindeer, Shane says there are no worries. That’s because with every lease, Kyle provides enough specially formulated Co-op Reindeer Feed (#344) to last the animals through their stay. Because reindeer have specific nutritional needs, he stresses that feeding them some-thing else is non-negotiable.

“Reindeer don’t need high protein content, and that’s a mis-take a lot of people make,” says Kyle, who is the liaison among ROBA, the U.S. Animal Health Association, and the U.S. De-partment of Agriculture. “When I first contacted Greg, I asked him where he got his feed. He put me in touch with Sevier Farmers Co-op, which carried the Co-op Reindeer Feed that Greg actually formulated. I’ve used it from the start, and the Co-op has been a tremendous help to me.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the Co-op.”

Kyle adds that he supplements the feed with beet pulp and hay as a “treat” for the reindeer.

“But the feed is complete enough for them to live on,” he notes.

Considering that he is rais-ing these animals “out of their comfort zone,” Kyle stresses the importance of being hypersensi-tive to their health and nutrition year-round.

“During the hot months, I’ve got fans and water misters that keep the reindeer cool,” he ex-plains. “And I work closely with Dr. Becky Lillard at Countryside Vet Services [in Blount County], and she’s been super. Some years it’s just routine stuff, but if we have a baby, I’ll call her out, and she’ll check the newborn and make sure the mom has milk. Becky’s a great partner to have.”

Though his reindeer ven-ture is an unconventional way to make a living, Kyle says he’s

proud that he’s been able to beat the odds and make it work.

“With all that I have invested in this, I couldn’t afford to do it as a hobby,” he says. “It’s been fun, and there are hard times, but that’s just part of farming.”

He’s even turned Greg from skeptic to believer.

“Kyle was determined that he was going to make this success-ful, and I couldn’t be happier for him,” says Greg. “He’s a smart guy who’s done all his homework on reindeer. I’m glad he proved me wrong.”

Oh, and Kyle has one more bit of wisdom to share: The line in the fabled “Up on the House-top” Christmas song about the reindeer going “click, click, click” is true.

“The tendons of their hind feet actually click as they walk,” Kyle explains. “They say it’s so the reindeer can track each other in a blinding snowstorm. If it’s real quiet, sometimes you can hear the sound.”

For more information about Rocky Hill Reindeer, visit www.reindeerman.com.

The thrill of petting an actual reindeer is evident on the faces of visitors at Creekside Nurseries in Knoxville, one of several businesses across the Southeast utilizing Kyle’s deer each year for appearances at holiday events. (Photo courtesy of Kyle Wilson)

LEFT: Kyle gives his herd Co-op Reindeer Feed (#344). This specially formulated ration, which he purchases through Sevier Farmers Co-op, was developed by Greg Hoisington of Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo in Sevierville. RIGHT: This impressive 30-point rack belongs to Chester, an 8-year-old bull at Rocky Hill Reindeer.

Did you know?• Both male and female reindeer grow antlers.• Reindeer can run up to 50 miles per hour!• Reindeer are the only deer species with a “fuzzy” nose.• Reindeer milk has more butterfat than cow’s milk.• Within 90 minutes of being born, baby reindeer can run; within a few hours, they can run several miles.• There are more reindeer in the world than all other species of deer combined.

36 December 2016

December 2016 37

38 December 2016

Christmas

What’s Cookin’?

A festive combination of flavors makes this White Cranberry-Macadamia Fudge a creamy, tempting treat for the holidays. This recipe earns Amberly Clark of Lawrenceburg Cook-of-the-Month honors for December. — Food styling and photo by Allison Morgan

S auce is just the start of the value cranberries have in the kitchen. Cranberries can be the main attraction or delicious addition to a wide

range of recipes, both sweet and savory. They pair well with many flavors, including other fruits, nuts, and grains, and offer vibrant color, refreshing taste, and health-promoting nutrients.

Although fresh cranberries are typically only available October through December, these tangy little berries can be conveniently enjoyed year-round in other forms — canned, dried, frozen, and juiced. You’ll find most of those versions of cranberries in this month’s “What’s cookin’?” column, including Amberly Clark’s “White Cranberry-Macadamia Fudge.” With a generous helping of dried cranberries combined with chopped macadamia nuts and white chocolate, this tempting treat is sure to be a holiday favorite. Amberly is our Cook-of-the-Month for December.

Other featured recipes are Nutty Cranberry Pilaf, Cranberry Jalapeño Relish, Glazed Cranberry Bread, Cinderella Cranberry Stack, Fancy Freezer Fruit Salad, Cranberry-Cashew Drop Cook-ies, and Cranberry Chicken.

Enjoy ... and Merry Christmas!

Sweet, tangy cranberries add holiday flair and flavor to variety of recipes

Berry Merry

Stacey Hicks, Camden, Benton Farmers Cooperative

Nutty Cranberry Pilaf

1 tablespoon olive oil12 ounces sliced mushrooms1⁄2 large onion, chopped1 cup quick-cooking brown

rice (can also use regular brown rice; just cook it longer)

1⁄2 cup bulgur wheat1 (10-ounce) can beef broth

(or beef bouillon added to 10 ounces water)

11⁄2 cups water1 teaspoon dried thyme1⁄2 teaspoon salt1⁄8 to 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne

pepper1⁄2 cup dried cranberries,

coarsely chopped1⁄2 cup toasted almondsHeat olive oil in a large skillet.

Add mushrooms, onions, rice, and wheat. Sauté until vegetables are

Clip, save, and serve

What you will need: Directions:

December 2016 winning recipeWhite Cranberry-Macadamia Fudge

Amberly Clark, Lawrenceburg, Lawrence Farmers Cooperative

• 41⁄2 cups sugar• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk• 2 (12-ounce) packages white chocolate

chips• 1 (71⁄2-ounce) jar marshmallow creme• 2 teaspoons vanilla• 12 ounces sweetened

dried cranberries• 1 cup chopped

macadamia nuts

Line a 13-x-9-x-2-inch baking pan with foil. Coat foil lightly with cooking spray.

In a 2-quart saucepan, cook sugar, butter, and evaporated milk over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes.

Remove from heat. Add white chocolate chips and marshmallow creme, stirring until melted. Stir in vanilla. Add cranberries and nuts; mix well.

Immediately pour mixture into pan. Chill for 11⁄2 hours. Cut into squares. Return pan to

refrigerator and chill to set squares, about 1 hour. Store in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Yield: 4 pounds.

December 2016 39

What’s Cookin’?

Get snacking in FebruaryFebruary is National Snack Food Month, an “observance” that kicks

off, appropriately, with Super Bowl Sunday on Feb. 5. But snacking isn’t re-served only for game time. Some 51 percent of people say they eat snacks at least twice a day, and those folks need some new recipes!

We’re here to help! Send us your favorite snack food recipes for our February “What’s cookin’?” column. Each person submitting a recipe chosen for publica-tion will receive $5 and a special certificate.

Monday, Jan. 4, is the deadline for your snack food recipes.

Don’t forget: Only recipes with complete, easy-to-follow instructions will be considered for publication. Several recipes are disqualified each month because they do not contain all the information needed to prepare the dishes successfully. Recipes featured in “What’s cookin’?” are not independently tested, so we must depend on the accuracy of the cooks sending them. Always use safe food-handling, prepa-ration, and cooking procedures.

Send entries to: Recipes, Tennessee Cooperator, P.O. Box 3003, LaVergne, TN 37086. You can submit more than one recipe in the same envelope. You can also e-mail them to: pcampbell@ourcoop.com. Be sure to include your name, address, telephone number, and the Co-op with which you do business. Recipes that appear in the “What’s cookin’?” column will also be published on our website at www.ourcoop.com.

at 350º for 50 minutes or un-til toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes. Remove from pan; cool thoroughly. Combine glaze ingredients and drizzle over bread before serving.

Earleen StarkDickson

Dickson Farmers Cooperative

TCinderella

Cranberry Stack

1 box white cake mix (no pudding)

2 large eggs1 (8-ounce) package sour

cream1⁄2 cup water11⁄3 cups oilMix all ingredients on low for

30 seconds. Beat well for two minutes. Pour into two round 8-inch cake pans that have been greased and floured. Bake at 350º for 30 minutes. Cool completely. Slice each layer horizontally.

Cranberry Filling:11⁄2 cups sugar1⁄2 cup plain flour1 cup cranberry juice con-

centrate, thawed1 (8-ounce) can crushed

pineapple in syrup1 (12-ounce) container

cranberry-orange relish2 tablespoons butter2 teaspoons orange rindMix sugar and flour in a

3-quart saucepan. Stir in cran-berry juice, pineapple, and relish. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. From boiling point, boil about three minutes or until it reaches pudding con-sistency. Remove from heat.

Stir in butter and orange rind. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in refrigerator at least eight hours.

When ready for assembly, fill split layers and top with about 1 cup filling. Store in refrigerator.

Betty FarrarRutledge

Grainger Farmers Cooperative

TFancy Freezer Fruit

Salad

1 (6-ounce) can whole cran-berry sauce

1 (81⁄2-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained

1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1⁄2 cup dairy sour cream

1⁄4 cup powdered sugar3 slices pineapple3 maraschino cherries,

halved Line an 8-inch round pan with

foil. In a medium bowl, combine cranberry sauce and crushed pineapple. In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and powdered sugar; mix well. Blend cheese mixture into cranberry mixture; spoon into prepared pan. Freeze until firm.

To serve, turn out frozen salad onto serving plate lined with let-tuce. Remove foil. Allow salad to stand at room temperature for five minutes. Cut into wedges. Garnish with pineapple slice and cherries.

Barbara TedderHarriman

AgCentral Farmers Cooperative

TCranberry-Cashew

Drop Cookies

1 cup butter, softened1 cup packed brown sugar1⁄2 cup sugar2 eggs1 teaspoon vanilla extract21⁄4 cups all-purpose flour1 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon salt1 cup chopped cashews1 cup dried cranberries

softened and grains are slightly browned. Add broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sim-mer, covered, for 15 minutes. Add cranberries. Cover and sim-mer five minutes more. Toss with almonds just before serving.

Barbara TroxlerNormandy

Bedford Moore Farmers Cooperative

TCranberry Jalapeño

Relish

1 cup dried cranberries1⁄2 to 1 cup orange juice1⁄2 cup diced red onion1⁄2 cup chopped fresh

cilantro1 teaspoon minced garlic1 to 2 fresh jalapeño pep-

pers, seeded and minced1⁄2 teaspoon ground cumin1⁄4 to 1⁄2 cup lime juice1⁄8 teaspoon saltCombine all ingredients,

cover, and refrigerate 24 to 48 hours, stirring occasionally. Serve cold.

Note: This can also be served on a block of cream cheese as an appetizer with crackers.

Doris Smithson TempleGreeneville

Washington Farmers Cooperative

TGlazed Cranberry

Bread

11⁄2 cups plain flour1⁄2 cup whole wheat flour3⁄4 cup sugar11⁄2 teaspoons baking powder1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda1⁄2 teaspoon salt1⁄4 teaspoon cinnamon3 tablespoons powdered

sugar1⁄2 teaspoon ground cloves1 tablespoon grated orange

peel3⁄4 cup plus 2 tablespoons

orange juice1 egg2 tablespoons canola oil1 cup cranberries, halvedGlaze:3 tablespoons powdered

sugar1⁄4 teaspoon skim milkCombine dry ingredients.

Lightly beat orange peel, orange juice, egg, and oil. Add to dry ingredients, stirring just until moistened; stir in cranberries. Pour into 81⁄2-inch loaf pan coated with cooking spray. Bake

1 (10-ounce to 12-ounce) package white chocolate baking chips

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Com-bine flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in the cashews, cranberries, and chips. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350º for nine to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Yield: 41⁄2 dozen.Ester StoltzfusPembroke, Ky.

Montgomery Farmers Cooperative

TCranberry Chicken

8 chicken breasts (skin on, bone in)

1 can whole cranberry sauce1 package dry onion soup mix1 (8-ounce) bottle French

dressingPlace breasts in a 9-x-12-inch

baking dish. Combine sauce, soup mix, and dressing; pour over chicken breasts. Bake un-covered at 350º for 11⁄2 hours or until chicken is tender.

Wanda PowersLexington

First Farmers Cooperative

40 December 2016

December 2016 41

Popcorn balls and paper chains, fruits and nuts in their stockings, carols by the fire, a cedar tree cut in the nearby woods — that’s the Christmas most rural Appalachian chil-dren knew.

And it’s the Christmas recre-ated each year at the Museum of Appalachia in Clinton. From Dec. 3-24, the “Christmas in Old Appalachia” event gives

guests a glimpse of what the holidays meant to the region’s families through the centuries. As live music fills the air, visi-tors take a self-guided tour of the festively decorated cabins, structures, and property.

In the one-room, dirt-floored “Dan’l Boone” cabin, strings of popcorn and cotton bolls are hung. Paper chains and home-made ornaments trim a tree in the Little Tater Valley School-house. Sweet gum and syca-more balls are strung through-out the Mark Twain Family Cabin. A traditional silver star tops a native red cedar Christ-mas tree in the turn-of-the-cen-tury Peters Homestead House. Apples, nuts, homemade toys, and oranges fill stockings in cabins throughout the property.

Guests can pick up unique stocking stuffers and Christ-mas presents in the Museum Gift and Antique Shop, which features hand-crafted orna-ments, locally made muscadine and moonshine jellies, pottery, baskets, quilts, and plenty of Appalachian specialties. A homemade country-style meal is served at the museum’s restaurant, which is open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Christmas activities are in-cluded with regular admission to the Museum of Appalachia, which was founded in 1969 by John Rice Irwin, a descendant of the region’s early settlers. An affiliate of the Smithson-ian Institution, the museum offers an authentic experience of what rural life was like on a pioneer Appalachian farm. The museum’s collection of historic cabins, structures, and relics is rooted in Irwin’s lifelong admiration for the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and persever-ance found in the people of Appalachia.

The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during December, except for Christ-mas Day.

For more information, direc-tions, and admission prices, contact the museum at 865-494-7680, email museum@museumofappalachia.org, or visit online at www.museum ofappalachia.org.

Museum of Appalachia features traditions of Christmas past

From Dec. 3-24, visitors can experience country Christmas traditions from yesteryear at the Museum of Appalachia in Clinton.

42 December 2016

horses and cattle,” says Char-ley. “I had the steers processed and marketed the meat. It sold quickly, and I really enjoyed it.”

After that experience, Char-ley decided he wanted to try raising cattle and officially established Circle J Ranch in 2009. He purchased 25 acres and a small herd of Texas long-horns because … well … he liked them.

“They’re just gorgeous, and to me, they’re the original Ameri-can cattle breed,” he says. “Plus,

I always like being different from the other guy and trying different things.”

Charley added a Hereford bull to the longhorns for a cross that results in low birth-weight calves and a lean cut of meat, he says. His herd now numbers 14 head, and he sells his all-natural beef at farmers markets in Clarksville and through his website — www.tnbeef.net — and social media.

Along with beef, Charley also sells homegrown herbs and vegetables and eggs from the family’s small flock of backyard chickens. Future plans include growing a pumpkin patch and shiitake mushrooms.

“My niche market is health-conscious people who want to eat fresh, local food and know the farmer who produced it,” says Charley.

With no prior farming experi-ence, education has been crucial

for Charley, a customer of Mont-gomery Farmers Cooperative. He’s completed the Advanced Master Beef Producer program, is working on his Master Gar-dener Certification, has attended numerous workshops offered by the University of Tennessee Ex-tension and Center for Profitable Agriculture, and is continually reading books, doing research, and taking online classes.

His accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. In June, he was recognized as winner of the

“2016 Most Improved Beginning Small Farmer Award” at Tennes-see State University’s Small Farm Expo in Nashville.

“I was really honored because it means someone else thinks what I’m doing is worthwhile,” says Charley. “I hope it shows other veterans that you can be successful in a farming career.”

Indeed, Charley is passionate about sharing his experiences with other soldiers in hopes that they, too, will become farmers. In 2014, he joined the Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC), a national organization whose mission is to introduce veterans to agriculture, and is working to start a Tennessee FVC chapter. He’s also part of Homegrown by Heroes, a branding program designating products produced by veterans, which has recently been implemented in the state in partnership with Pick Ten-nessee Products.

Military families rarely get the chance to put down roots for very

long. Life often revolves around deployments, reassignments, and permanent changes of station.

Montgomery County’s Char-ley Jordan considers himself lucky to be an exception. The 28-year Army veteran is stationed at Fort Campbell, Ky., in the 160th Special Operations Aviation Reg-iment. Along with his role as a helicopter pilot, the career Chief Warrant Officer 4 has been able to start his own farm — Circle J Ranch — while he finishes out his military service. He plans to retire in July 2017.

“I’m blessed to be part of the organization I’m in,” says Char-ley, 45. “I was able to stay here at Fort Campbell for many years, which gave me the opportunity to do what I’m doing.”

Farming really wasn’t on his radar until Charley began think-ing about what to do with his life after the military. The Gulf Breeze, Fla., native grew up as a “surfer, skateboarder kid” whose experience with agriculture was limited at best. He joined the Army when he graduated from high school in 1989 and has been stationed in Germany and Korea, been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, and attended the Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker, Ala.

Charley met his wife, Melin-da, when he was first stationed at Fort Campbell in 1995. After he completed flight school, they returned to the Kentucky base in 2001 and settled in Woodlawn, where they bought a house and a few acres. Their daughter, Aman-da, competed in high school rodeo, and the Jordans raised horses and a few roping steers to support her sport, which was Charley’s round-about entry into beef production.

“When our daughter got out of rodeo, I was stuck with the

A soft place to landEvery Farmer Has A Story Charley Jordan

Army helicopter pilot Charley Jordan puts down farming roots as he nears retirement from a 28-year military career

By Allison Jenkins

When he decided to establish a small-scale beef operation in 2009, Charley Jordan of Woodlawn started with longhorns and has since added Herefords to his herd.

lWoodlawn

“Agriculture is a wonderful way for veterans to continue to serve their country,” says Charley. “They can serve by defending America, and when they get out, they can feed the people of Amer-ica and take care of the land.”

He’s finding there is tremen-dous interest in this concept. Last April, Charley organized a Farmer Veteran Workshop in Clarksville with attendance that far exceeded expectations.

“It was wonderful,” says Charley. “I thought if I could get 20 veterans in the room, I’d call it a success. We had 96 people, including myself, from east of Knoxville all the way to Mem-phis. After that, interest has just steamrolled, and I’ve been asked to speak at several other confer-ences and events.”

His take-home message to aspiring farmer-veterans is: “Get your education first!”

“Learn about it and see if this is what you really want to do,” he urges. “Take some classes and attend some workshops. Come up with a business plan and learn how to stay in the black. Farming can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be with a good plan.”

Charley admits that balancing farming with a full-time military job has been a “precise exercise in schedule management,” but he’s looking forward to his impending retirement so he can fully im-merse himself in agriculture.

“For me, farming is therapeu-tic,” says Charley. “My cows are happy to see me. I love being able to put my hands in the dirt. I love knowing I rolled the hay that I’m feeding to my cattle that are go-ing to eventually feed me and my customers. On the farm, I truly have something good to show for my work at the end of the day.”

Trained as an Army helicopter pilot, Charley balances his full-time military job with part-time farming.

December 2016 43

Every Farmer Has A Story By Allison Jenkins

Charley shows some of his Circle J Ranch beef and the Homegrown by Heroes logo he uses in marketing his farm-fresh products. He sells the beef at farmers markets in the Clarksville area and through online orders. The 28-year Army veteran will retire next July and farm full time. He’s committed to helping other military personnel transition to careers in agriculture after completing their service and hopes to start a Tennessee chapter of the national Farmer Veteran Coalition. Those interested in farmer veteran resources or being part of this organization can contact Charley at 931-561-8072 or circlejranch09@gmail.com or visit online at www.tnbeef.net, facebook.com/circlejranchtn, or facebook.com/farmerveteransofmiddletn.