Iron Ladies

Ever since my childhood, I adored Margaret Thatcher.  As a girl growing up in the 1980s, it was fantastic to watch the evening news and see a woman who was a world leader.  My grandfather was a staunch Republican; his support for Reagan & Thatcher -- and his opposition to communism -- was a major influence on me.  When I learned that Margaret Thatcher and I shared a birthday (10/13), it further cemented my view that we were kindred spirits.  The death of Baroness Thatcher feels like a closing of my childhood, now that Reagan, John Paul II, and Thatcher have all passed on.

At the beginning of April, I had the pleasure of attending one of the meetings of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation Board.  It has been an honor to represent Delaware, Franklin, Madison, and Union Counties, and now that I am in my second year I have gained a greater understanding of the operations of this board.  Amongst the many reports that came before the board at this session was a discussion of recommendations for the evolution of American Farm Bureau as an organization.  At a recent conference of Young Farmers & Ranchers, one of the top recommendations that emerged to streamline the organization was to discontinue the Women's Committee of American Farm Bureau.

Over lunch that day, discussion on this suggestion ensued.  Many gentlemen were surprised that young people would advocate for removing the potential leadership opportunities that women would have through this special committee.  During that discussion (only days before the Baroness would pass), it was Margaret Thatcher whose name I brought up.  As younger farmer -- and being in the unique position of being one of four women who serve as district trustees for the 22 Ohio Farm Bureau districts -- I have a different perspective on potential leadership roles.  Having grown up at a time when I routinely saw a female Prime Minister of Great Britain, I did not learn as a young person that there were any limitations to what a woman could achieve if she put her mind to it.  While I applaud the good work of the Women's Committee of American Farm Bureau, I am seeking equality of opportunity to serve as a leader.  Not equality of outcome, but of opportunity -- the ability to achieve as an individual, not based upon gender.  Women & men both serve as farmers, as business people, as professionals.  This is based upon personal success, and should be driven neither by bias against nor for one gender over another.

When Baroness Thatcher passed just days later, I was intrigued to reflect on this conversation.  As we live our lives, we never know how far-reaching our impact can be.  I am sure that during her career in Parliament, Baroness Thatcher could never have imagined the devotion with which a little farm girl in Ohio was following her achievements.  The Saturday after she passed was April 13th -- our half birthday.  In her honor, we held an "Iron Lady Party" at the farm.  I invited my closest local friends, who are truly an accomplished, remarkable group of women.  We dressed up in honor of the Baroness, grilled meats, drank wine, and smoked cigars.  It was a diverse group of women (not all of whom had met before), but the conversation flowed freely -- from history to women's issues to funny stories.

My friends inspire me with their activities and accomplishments.  As I looked around the table that night, I was amazed by everything that had been achieved by this group of women.  As unique as each of those ladies is, they are all driven by the belief that they can succeed in their chosen realm.  In this, Thatcher was a role model.  She did not expect to be limited by her gender, nor receive benefits because of it.  Thatcher showed us that a woman can achieve success in her chosen field, and still be a lady.   My favourite Thatcher quote: "Being powerful is like being a lady.  If you have to tell people you are, you aren't."  Amen.

What a Baby Bird Taught Me About Mentoring

I have been thinking a great deal of late on mentoring.  This has been a prominent discussion item during my time as a member of the board of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation.  How can young farmers be aided in their development as farm community leaders?  How can young people be encouraged to consider agriculture as a career?  What can we as farmers do to illustrate that agriculture is fun and engaging?  To me, the most important question addresses how we shape young people into the future men and women who will lead our communities and our nation.  

My perspective on mentorship is probably different than most, since I have had the opportunity to work with a bounty of young people.  I thoroughly enjoyed my years as a teacher, I adored teaching my brothers how to do things on the farm, and the time I spent working with my student assistants has allowed me the privilege of interacting with young farmers as they grow in their abilities.  I have had many FFA students work with me to complete their Supervised Agricultural Experience projects, I have had the pleasure of hosting OSU students for internships, and this summer will bring two different visiting students to stay & work on the farm.  Over the years, these young people have become extended members of my family.  I fondly think of them as my kids -- human variety -- and I love keeping up with their adventures!

This year, I have also been blessed with two new "junior farmers"!  My neighbors who live west of the farm are a wonderful family.  Their two youngest are Joseph and Eliza.  Joseph is a very intelligent & industrious young man of 13, and Eliza is adorable 7 year old with beautiful doe eyes & a gap-toothed grin.  If they see me working in the barn, one or both will often pop over to see if they can help out.  I thoroughly enjoy their company, and have been impressed with how much they have learned over the last few months.  Joseph was an indispensable aide to me while I was in Wyoming, by helping out with the morning chores.  I have been especially pleased to observe the manner in which Joseph will master a skill or learn something new, and then share it with his younger sister.

Last Friday was a busy day for me as I prepared for the weekend.  I had a planned three hour drive to Van Wert that afternoon, in order to attend the annual educational event "Sheep Day" on Saturday.  On Saturday evening, I was excited to attend a wedding in Lancaster, then I had a catering job scheduled for 6:30am on Sunday.  With all these fun items on my agenda, I was mindful of a short time period for preparation on Friday morning.  Joseph & Eliza arrived at 10:00am to help me with some basic tasks on the farm, which I anticipated would allow me time to pack and organize myself.

Shortly after starting the morning chores, my junior farmers came back to the house.  I was in the midst of a telephone call, but could tell from Joseph's serious expression as he stood at the door that he needed me.  After finishing the conversation, I stepped out to meet him . . . and discovered he was holding in his hands a baby bird.  Joseph explained that he had found it on the ground in the box stall.  The barn swallow's nest (that we had first observed just the afternoon before) had fallen to the ground and was in shambles.  This one baby bird lay all alone.  As I looked at the poor little thing with only tiny feathers, I knew the reality that it would probably starve or be eaten by a cat.  I knew it was simply the way of the world.  I also knew I had to focus on the tasks at hand if I was going to be on time to my meeting later that day.  Then I looked at Eliza's big brown eyes -- so worried for the bird, so full of hope that I would know what to do -- and I realized that there would always be another meeting.  There would never be another chance to capitalize on this opportunity to teach two precious young people.

As luck would have it, I had recently come across some information on handling baby birds -- although at the time I had no idea I would need it so soon!  We searched through the recycling for a suitable plastic container, drilled holes in it so we could use baling twine to hang it, and then carried it to the barn.  We placed some hay in the new "nest".  As Eliza held the bird, I explained to her that we would try to put the replacement nest as close to the previous nest as possible.  Even though we could not feed & teach the baby bird ourselves, we could at least try to put in a position where its mama bird could find it.  We discussed that all animals are different, and since this was a wild animal, it was best that we help it stay wild.  Joseph manfully helped prepare the nest for hanging, and then steadied the ladder as I tied it up and placed the bird in it.  Just as we vacated the box stall, a swallow flew through.  Eliza was delighted that this could be mama returning!

I was -- of course! -- late for everything that day, but the baby bird was only the first item that delayed my schedule.  I love being a farmer, and I believe that it is my responsibility to contribute to our farm community by supporting organizations that look after the best interests of farmers . . . and part of that responsibility is going to meetings.  But more important than that is my responsibility to help teach boys and girls who are interested in farming.  While I am proud to raise livestock, I am much more proud to help raise the young men & women who will be the future of our country.  Those of us who farm are so incredibly blessed to be involved in a truly noble endeavor.  We were fortunate enough to have someone teach us how to farm, how to be a contributing citizen, how to be a good human -- and now it is our responsibility and our great opportunity to help those who follow us learn these same things!

Mary Beth, Goat of Destiny

As I write this, I am cooking Oreo the Goat.  Oreo the Goat was the mother of Mary Beth, my bottle baby.  While I was sorry to reach the conclusion that Oreo needed to meet a quick death, it actually ended up being in Mary Beth's best interest that she was already being fed on a bottle.  Mary Beth and her brother Timmy were born on a cold January day.  She was named after my current intern from Ohio State, and almost mirrors her sunny disposition.  Oreo made it clear from the start that she had no problems with her daughter, but there was no way in the world that she would feed her.  In contrast, Oreo allowed Timmy to nurse without problem, but was deadset that Mary Beth would not be allowed the same nutrition.  Thus, I became Mary Beth's surrogate mother . . . and Mary Beth learned to drink her milk from a recycled Yuengling bottle!

If a new mother rejects a baby, I have found that this typically means the goat lacks proper maternal instinct.  In that case, the goat has no place on a working farm.  It will be sold, for the betterment of the rest of the herd and of the human.  Every creature on this farm must contribute.  If an experienced mother, however, rejects a baby, I have found that there is usually a reason why this happens.  God has gifted humans with brains that cause us to analyze our behavior, but animals are blessed with the simplicity of acting with an instinct that involves no need for reason.  Oreo was an older goat, and was thinner than I would have liked.  Her instinct must have told her that she could only raise one baby.  Timmy was the baby she chose, and Mary Beth became my baby.

Mary Beth has become a superstar visitor to local schools.  Her first visit was to a pre-school near Ashville, where she entertained numerous little children . . . who all wanted a turn to pet the baby goat!  This was a quick trip, where she was able to stay outside.  Although Mary Beth was not a fan of riding in the Goatmobile, she gradually adjusted.  Her second event was an educational day at Plain City Elementary sponsored by Madison County Farm Bureau.  To my surprise, the school chose to place a Goatherd and a goat in a classroom!  Mary Beth was quite a professional: she relieved herself outside the school after we arrived, and then calmly followed me right through the front door of the building!  We got our fair share of double-takes as students and teachers observed me taking "my kid" to school!  The picture at the top of this post shows Mary Beth entertaining a classroom of students.  Although I could tell she was tired by the end of the day, I was impressed with the calm manner with which Mary Beth handled a public appearance.  Truly, she was made for the limelight!

Sadly, Oreo began to go downhill quickly when Mary Beth & Timmy were almost 3 months old.  I found her in the barn one day, unable to get up.  The other goats were out grazing, but Mary Beth & Timmy had remained inside with their ill mother.  As I examined Oreo, I realized that at her advanced age this was not an illness she would recover from.  I could treat her -- with an antibiotic and with a de-wormer -- but more than likely, she would still pass.  I decided the most humane thing to do would be to end her suffering and give value to her body.  I moved Mary Beth & Timmy to live in a small pen in the front of the barn with my new calf E. Shackelton and Mop & Fuller the Goats.

Once a friend was able to arrive to help me, we moved Oreo from the barn.  I typically butcher animals by the hydrant so I have plenty of water available.  Oreo's blood pressure was very low, and she passed quickly when I bled her.  I was once told by a vet that there are two things that can kill an animal: the one big hammer or the fourteen little hammers.  Sometimes death is triggered by a major thing, but other times it is a number of small items that combine to cause illness.  In Oreo's case, she was elderly and was dealing with a heavy case of parasites.  This was combined with lungs that were not in the best condition and a swollen gall bladder . . . and these were just the things that a simple goatherd & butcher immediately detected.  While I hated to say goodbye to this longtime member of the herd, it was my responsibility to show her the respect of a quick death.  When humans were given dominion over animals, we were also given the profound responsibility to treat them with love and respect.  This dominion is a great power, and thus requires great responsibility in our human behavior.

Mary Beth & Timmy are adapting to their new location.  When I examined Oreo, I realized that she had stopped producing milk, and therefore Timmy is not struggling due to a quick loss of dairy nutrients . . . he had already been forced to stop drinking much milk.  Mary Beth is quite used to humans, and her relaxed attitude is helping Timmy to adjust to being around me more.  Oreo's meat is going to feed the Pyrenees pups.  She is keeping them strong, and has left a legacy in her daughter -- a goat that is educating many young people on the wonders of farming!

The Goatherd at the Statehouse

Some days, Sheba looks at me when I get ready to depart the farm and gives me her "sad puppy eyes".  I know that I will be home soon, but at the same time I always wish I was staying on the farm with her.  I am happiest when I simply have a quiet day to work with my animals.  It seems as though those days are more rare, and more treasured.  I sometimes wonder if I like meetings, since I seem to attend so many.  In truth, I do not -- but I believe so strongly in agriculture that I am more than willing to participate in sessions that better our farm community.  Along the way, I've had some amazing experiences and great adventures.  And I hope that these have made me a more fun dog owner for Sheba . . . even if I have had to be away from the farm!

Yesterday, I had the fantastic opportunity to offer testimony to the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee on Senate Bill 281, which expands Ag-Link.  Ag-Link is a linked deposit program which offers low-interest loans for farmers.  It has been in existence for over 25 years, and has helped more than 40,000 farmers.  I was quite honored when I was asked to represent Ohio Farm Bureau to speak out in support of legislation to expand Ag-Link.  One of the greatest attributes of Ohio Farm Bureau -- in my opinion -- is that it is truly a grassroots organization.  Its policies are directly established by its 60,000 farmer members.  Ohio Farm Bureau members support the Ag-Link program and support its expansion.

When I was first asked to offer testimony on behalf of Ohio Farm Bureau, I will admit I was a bit hesitant due to my lack of experience with the program.  I have not been a participant in Ag-Link.  I have, however, known many farmers who have benefited from it.  I also know firsthand the challenges that young farmers face in starting agricultural endeavors . . . and one of the greatest is having access to enough capital.  My friend Beth, the Policy Princess, offered me great support in learning about the proposed legislation to expand Ag-Link, and I found that I personally supported the ideas.  Senate Bill 281 raises the maximum loan amount from $100,000 to $150,000.  While $100,000 might initially seem like a large amount, when it comes to funding land, equipment, livestock, seed, etc, this dollar figure can be exceeded very quickly.  Raising this amount keeps the program useful for farmers.  Senate Bill 281 also directs the State Treasurer to increase annual funding from $125 million to $165 million.  This increase is a reflection of growth in the state's treasury, and allows for the increase in individual loans without decreasing the number of farmers that can participate.  Finally, updates were made in calculations of the lending rates for farmers that keep the program in line with current financial practices.  It is important to keep such a program fiscally responsible.

As usual, I was running around like crazy to be on time for my testimony.  Plus, I needed to make a special delivery after I finished at the Statehouse.  I actually awoke on time, and managed to do what immediately needed to be done in the barn.  (How do you know you're a farm girl?  You find yourself hustling out to the henhouse to let the chickens out while wearing a bathrobe and muck boots!  Apologies to my neighbors . . .)  The Policy Princess was an excellent guide in preparing me for the day.  I had my notes all ready on the technical aspects of the bill so I could answer difficult questions, and I had studied up on each of the committee members so I could tailor my answers to their interests.  I did acceptably for my first time offering testimony, and I sincerely enjoyed it.  Much to my sadness, not a single question was asked to test my knowledge!  It was, however, a great experience and I was so grateful to have the Policy Princess & my Sister-in-Slaughter Angie both there to support me!

As I departed the Statehouse, I called my friend Chef Seth to let him know I was ready to make my delivery.  What had I taken to the Statehouse with me?  Well, Seth is working on a garden and needed some horse manure.  I agreed to a trade in exchange for his delicious Lamb Bacon recipe.  Thus it was that I had a container full of horse manure in the back of the Goatmobile.  While it might be said that some people bring a load of "crap" when they come to lobby at the Statehouse, I literally did!  And I like to think that my animals would be proud that -- no matter what I may be doing -- my heart is never far from the farm!

My Friend Who Wore Purple

Life goes fast. It is so important to remember that, and to rejoice in every day. Life should be lived to the fullest, friends should be treasured, and every day should be celebrated. Good people help to make our journey through life all the better.

This picture was taken at the Field to Table Dinner at Franklin Park Conservatory last September. 2011 was the third year for this event that celebrates agriculture in our community. Franklin County Farm Bureau serves as a sponsor for the dinner, and I had the pleasure of attending the event with several of my fellow board members from the county. The gardens were beautiful, the food was delicious, and the company was wonderful as we dined under the stars! In particular, I remember the moment this photo was taken. On the right is Angie, my "sister-in-slaughter". In the middle is our friend Jeff. Jeff was his usual convivial and fun-loving self that night! Jeff & Angie both happened to be wearing purple, and as we proceeded to the dinner tables after cocktail hour, he cavalierly offered his arm to Angie so they could walk to dinner together in all their purple glory! Our group was seated next to several executives from Battelle that evening, and I recall fondly what a great adventure we had! This night has been at the forefront of my mind for the past ten days, since my friend Jeff passed on. It was such a happy, lighthearted evening of celebration -- and I was blessed to share it with people I care so much about.

I had the pleasure of getting to know Jeff during the time we served together on the Franklin County Farm Bureau board. He was a hard worker, with firm opinions, but ready to learn new things. Jeff was dedicated to assisting young people through his efforts to promote the county fair and the state fair. He was ever-present during 4-H events at our county fair, helping his own children and others. Jeff was full of life, with a hearty laugh. He was the senior member of our young farmer group, and always added to our discussions. I had a great deal of respect for the fact that you always knew where you stood with Jeff, and especially that -- even when he disagreed with me on a principle or questioned a decision I made as county president -- he could state his opinion clearly without ever compromising our friendship. Jeff's greatest achievement is his family: he has three amazing children. They are intelligent and hard-working like their father, and are a true credit to him.

Jeff's family indicated that he did not care for flowers at funerals. They asked that donations be made to the Franklin County Farm Bureau on his behalf. That board recently met, and is discussing ways to honor Jeff. At the last board meeting that Jeff attended, his final action as a board member was to move to make a donation of $1000 to help build a tilapia pond at an orphanage in Kenya that Franklin County Farm Bureau has supported over the years. It is the hope of the board members to have a plaque placed at this pond, naming it in honor of Jeff. In addition, the board members are considering ways to honor Jeff at the county fair. I hope this will include bidding on the market animals of his children during the livestock auction. And bidding. And bidding.

Aloha and Maholo

Do you ever play that game where you try to figure out your friends' favorite characters from TV shows and movies? Who was your favorite Muppet? (Definitely Animal!) How about favorite Winnie the Pooh character? (Tigger, for sure!) When it came to Sesame Street, I was a dedicated fan of Mr. Snuffaluffagous as a child. This character resembled a friendly woolly mammoth. He had a steady smile, was both innocent & wise, and just looked like he would be fun to hug. Plus, even though Big Bird was his best friend, Mr. Snuffaluffagous had an independent streak.

Sesame Street dominated our household television when I was five (it's good to be an only child!). I can still sing many of the songs I learned on the show! And I clearly recall when Big Bird realized Mr. Snuffaluffagous was missing . . . I breathlessly followed along as Big Bird unearthed the clues Mr. Snuffaluffagous left behind. Finally, it was discovered that he had gone to Hawaii! The entire Sesame Street crew went with Big Bird to find their friend -- and engage in educational activities for their young viewers. Mr. Snuffaluffagous was -- of course -- found by his friends, and Hawaiian culture was presented to the watching children.

When Big Bird decided to follow Mr. Snuffaluffagous to Hawaii, I wanted to go as well. I can remember running and asking my mother if we could go to Hawaii to help find Mr. Snuffaluffagous. She readily agreed and went on with her day, expecting her five year old daughter would soon forget about that request . . . but I never did. It evolved into a running joke between us. Anytime I wanted to tease her, I would remind her that she had PROMISED to take me to Hawaii! As I became an adult, we talked about when we might take our trip, fully intending for it to be a fun mother-daughter jaunt. Humans make plans, and God laughs. He had a much better paradise in store for my mother, but Hawaii never lost its appeal to me as a place I wanted to see.

While not superstitious, I do believe in signs. In my childhood, my mother saved up Bicentennial Quarters for me. Those were the quarters from 1976 (the year of my birth) that had the special image of the Revolutionary drummer on the reverse of the picture of General George Washington. In my early years, they were fairly common. Of late, they are rarely seen. On the night before the election was to be held for Farm Bureau State Trustee from our district, I asked a friend of mine to run an errand to the store on my behalf. When he returned with my change, it included a Bicentennial Quarter. Seeing that quarter reminded me of my mum, which in turn helped to calm my nerves. I carried it in my pocket on the morning of the election . . . and it was still in my pocket later that day when I learned I would be representing Ohio Farm Bureau on a trip to the American Farm Bureau Annual Meeting -- in HAWAII!

I was incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to travel to this island paradise during a beautiful week on Waikiki Beach in January, which was a lovely break from wintertime in Ohio! The travel was long (3 flights there, with many unhappy infants & toddlers!), but it was well worth it. The weather was sunny and in the low 80s during my stay: perfect for visiting the beach! I had an amazing experience attending the convention! I met so many people, got to know my fellow state trustees better, and learned a LOT about policy making on the federal level for Farm Bureau. A highlight was the keynote address from humorist Dave Barry . . . one of my mother's personal favorites! I can remember her laughing uproariously when reading his books and then passing them on to me with high recommendations. I truly enjoyed his presentation; he has a gift for humor that is relevant without being offensive.

One of the best parts of the trip was that I got to see one of my dearest friends, Tonja. When we formed our Farm Bureau advisory council, Tonja was one of the original "Irish Pirates". We had fantastic adventures together before her work transferred her out of state. Tonja was my companion when the Pirates went to New Orleans for the American Farm Bureau convention in 2008, so I was delighted that she was able to coordinate some vacation time in Hawaii to coincide with the event this year. It was such a blessing to be able to celebrate this opportunity to represent Farm Bureau and fulfill a lifelong travel dream with one of my best girlfriends!

On a morning that I did not have any convention responsibilities, Tonja & I visited Pearl Harbor. For a history buff, this was a fantastic experience. Being there at 7am on a January morning had to be much like it was on 7 December 1941 prior to the Japanese planes hitting at 7:48am. We toured the museums, watched the National Park Service video, and took a boat out to the Arizona Memorial. As an American, it is hard to put into words the profound feelings in one's heart at seeing the USS Arizona. The sacrifice of the military members at Pearl Harbor that day directly inspired the victories achieved by America during World War II. Without those achievements, we would not enjoy the freedoms we do today in our country.

There was a Pearl Harbor survivor at the park that day, autographing copies of his memoir about the war. I was delighted to meet this gentleman and be able to personally express my gratitude! I am sincerely looking forward to reading his book. I should also mention that this gentleman had perfected the art of flirtation in his many years: in the short time we talked, he twice complimented my looks and didn't hesitate to throw his arm around me when we had our picture taken! I was grateful to have the opportunity to meet this gentleman, and I will always remember him!

The return trip from Hawaii was a bit tiring. I had breakfast on a patio over-looking the beach with my pirate sister, then headed to the airport. I left Honolulu at 2:20pm local time, flew to Los Angeles, took the red-eye to Cleveland, then transferred to Columbus . . . arriving at 9:30am the "next" day! I anticipated heading straight to bed after doing the chores, as I was working a catering job at Dr. Gee's Residence that evening. Alas, the goats decided I was needed in the barn: my two does that had been very pregnant for a couple weeks both decided to kid. Elizabeth of Hungary is fantastic: by the time I found her twins, they were standing and nursing. Angela Merkel the Goat proved to be incompetent: two of her triplets died & the third is now living in my kitchen. After working in the barn, I changed my clothes and went straight to work. While supervising the party at Dr. Gee's, a snowstorm started. At midnight, as I was driving home from the catering kitchen on very dangerous roads, it sank in just how tired I was! It was hard to believe I had started "that" day in Hawaii!

Before leaving the catering shop that night, I realized that I needed some fuel before the drive home. I stopped at the closest gas station and looked through my wallet to see how much cash was left from Hawaii. I don't normally carry coins, but I had received some in change from purchases in Honolulu. As I poured the change into my hand, there was a Bicentennial Quarter that had travelled with me all the way from Hawaii! I kept it as a wonderful reminder of Hawaii, of my adventures, of Mr. Snuffaluffagous, and of my most remarkable mother!

Big News! The Goatherd Wins the Election!

The picture at the left was taken on Friday 2 December 2011, when the newly elected state trustees for Ohio Farm Bureau were sworn in. That is me, standing on the far right. I am very, very excited to represent Delaware, Franklin, Madison, and Union counties on the state board for Ohio Farm Bureau! Of note, I am the first woman to hold this position. This picture was taken at one of the most exciting moments of my life, as the state president swore us in and the executive vice president gave us our official state trustee pins! The official press release from Ohio Farm Bureau follows. I owe a note of thanks to Mr. Bill Lowe, who previously held this seat. He is a most gracious and supportive gentleman, and I sincerely appreciated his kind sentiments when introducing me to the current board. I look forward to working with all four counties in my district!


Harrison Elected to Ohio Farm Bureau Board

COLUMBUS, Ohio (OFBF) – Katherine Harrison of Canal Winchester has been elected to the board of trustees for the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (OFBF). She will represent Farm Bureau members from District 11, which consists of Delaware, Franklin, Madison and Union counties. As trustee she will help govern the state’s largest general farm organization.

Harrison fills the seat formerly held by Bill Lowe, who has retired from the board. Harrison produces commercial meat goats and raises other livestock. She is a 10-year member of the Franklin County Farm Bureau and is its current president. She also has been active in its public policy work. She is a graduate of OFBF’s AgriPOWER leadership development program. Harrison received a bachelor’s degree in history and world religions from the University of Richmond.

Ohio Farm Bureau’s mission is to forge a partnership between producers and consumers. To learn more visit ofbf.org

The DBV, the EU, and the CAP: More Than You Ever Wanted to Know About Farm Policy!

This picture was taken during our luncheon with Dr. Born, General Secretary of the Deutscher Bauernverband. We had an excellent discussion on issues that face the DBV, in comparison to those that face the American Farm Bureau. In the photo, from the left: Shane Otley of Oregon, Tracy Grondine of Washington DC, Chad Vorthmann of Colorado, Dr. Helmut Born of the DBV, and Katherine Harrison.

In Germany, more than 90% of its farmers are members of the DBV. This is an amazing membership rate! Total membership is around 325,000. The DBV has offices in Berlin and in Brussells. Much like the Amercian Farm Bureau Federation, the DBV is composed of 18 State organizations (there are 16 German states, and certain states have dual organizations). Farmer members direct the work of the organization, and professional staff carry out the duties of the association. The DBV was founded in 1948 and exists to represent the agricultural, economical, legal, fiscal, environmental, social, educational, and socio-political interests of farmers. Germany is a leading producer in the EU of canola, potatoes, milk, pork, beef, and eggs.

The DBV is, in turn, a member of COPA, which is the agricultural organization for the EU. COPA has 85 members from the 27 EU states and non-member European countries. Some of these countries have multiple national farm associations, such as Italy which has 4. The Green Party has initiated an effort to start a rival organization to the DBV in Germany. (As you can imagine, I was not surprised to learn it was the Greens!) Thus, while Germany as a nation has influence at the EU on agricultural policy, it is important to remember that policy decisions that impact farmers are made primarily at the EU level. The German department of agriculture serves to implement these decisions.

The European Union was created in 1957 with six nations: Germany, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxemburg, and Italy. There are now 27 member states, 500 million citizens, and 22(!) official languages. This means all official documents of the EU must be translated 22 times -- amazing! There is one single market amongst these 27 states for the free movement of goods and services. Only 16 of the member states, however, use the common currency of the Euro. Beyond this, while those 16 members are part of the Euro zone, their individual national governments set their own financial policy . . . thus leading to the current situation where Germany is faced with bailing out the Greek government in its financial debacle to maintain the stability of the Euro.

The three key institutions of the EU are the Council of Ministers (which represent the member states), the European Parliament (designed as the voice of the people), and the Commission (which carries out the work of the EU). EU policies largely are crafted as the result of huge compromises between member states to achieve action. Even with these pieces of legislation, there are still major difference in how nations implement them. For example, the EU set an end date for the use of hen cages in Europe. German implemented this several years early, but other countries (such as Poland) are delaying the implementation. Polish farmers purchased a lot of those German hen cages, and are now able to produce eggs at a lesser price . . . and then sell them in Germany!

With the founding of the EU in 1957, the Common Agricultural Policy was also inaugurated. The CAP focused on three areas: self-suffiency for main commodities, sustainable economic development in rural areas, and compensation to farmers for respecting high production standards. Currently, there are 19 provisions in place that farmers must follow in order to receive EU dollars. One example is the animal identification system, which requires that each animal have a passport and a specific form of tagging. Cattle must maintain matching tags in each ear. There is a 40 Euro fine if a cow does not have this, and there is no tolerance, no matter the reason. (I can't imagine keeping two ear tags in my goats' ears -- they lose them constantly!) These 19 standards are theroretically voluntary, but virtually all farmers participate under pressure to receive EU dollars. Between 2005 and 2009, 30-40% of the average farmers annual income was made up of subsidy payments!!!

The European Union member states view agriculture as crucial for their culture, economy, environment, and self-sufficiency. Thus, they are willing to dedicate public funds to achieve this. In return, farmers must agree to abide by the 19 standards identified in response to consumer discussion and public mandate. By keeping farmers prosperous, the goal is to keep rural communities prosperous. It ensures the presence of jobs & services for rural dwellers: such as postmasters, doctors, and teachers. Sustainability is regarded as a 3-legged stool: environmental, social, and economical. In the United States, there is a great deal of ambiguity regarding the word "sustainable". While I have always personally taken pride that I do not receive government payments -- and thus am not responsible to the government for my production -- I will openly applaud the EU for clarifying that if the government is to espouse certain practices, it must be able to define them!

The Goatherd Goes to Deutschland

This is the story of a goatherd who went across the ocean in the hope of seeing German goats.

In late winter of 2011, I learned of the McCloy Fellowship. This is an educational opportunity for young professionals to travel overseas sponsored by the American Council on Germany. Fellowships are offered each year in journalism, urban planning, environmental issues, and agriculture. Farming + education + travel = a very intrigued Goatherd! The American Farm Bureau works with the American Council on Germany to source the four individuals selected each year for the fellowships in agriculture. I was very excited to be named my state’s nominee, but there were 49 other states that had the opportunity to nominate someone as well and only four would be the winners.

My personal philosophy is “big packet good, small letter bad”. This stems from my college application days. I eagerly watched the mailbox for days after the supposed selection date . . . and days, and days. Eventually, hearing nothing, I realized that I wasn’t chosen. One day, while at Starbucks, I was checking my email when I found a message with the subject heading of “McCloy Fellowship” from a staff member at American Farm Bureau. Ugh. If a big packet is good news, and a small letter is bad news, then an email is dismissive! I opened the email, already reading in my mind “Dear Katherine Harrison, Thank you for applying for the McCloy Fellowship. Although we have selected different Fellows for 2011, we hope you will re-apply next year.”

I waited for the email to load . . . the first sentence was absolutely as I expected. But that second sentence . . . I re-read and re-read and re-read again. And then, in the middle of Starbucks, I put my hands over my eyes and started to cry. For those who know me personally, the last few years have been full of some struggles for me. It was a true opportunity to test my mettle and my integrity and my faith. I cried that day sitting in front of my laptop because something that was good -- something that was earned -- was being offered to me. I was profoundly humbled, and exceedingly grateful that God saw me through difficulty so that I could enjoy a monumental blessing. Then, I called my Christopher and tried to tell him the good news without crying some more . . .

Time went on, our travel dates were selected, I became Facebook friends with my fellow Fellows (ha!), and I worked to master my German (in so many ways!) in preparation for the trip. My first overseas trip would also be the longest trip I had taken away from the farm as an adult responsible for goats, and chickens, and cows, and dogs, etc, etc. Thankfully, I have a wonderful gentleman friend and amazing student assistants, not to mention the best farmer friends ever! Chris did his best to prepare me for my time in his ancestral homeland. This included emailing me news articles, giving me helpful hints on travel, and practicing the language with me.

Goatherd Facebook Status: Yet another reason to love Germany: the Pirate Party has won seats in the Berlin state parliament with 8.9% of the local vote! "Pirate Party leader Sebastian Nerz told Deutschlandfunk Radio that his party is prepared to prove it is up to serious politics." ARRR!

My stipend check for my fellowship arrived on a Friday afternoon. And in true Katherine fashion, on Monday I blew it on goats. Honest to God. Personal motto: “I spent all my money on liquor and goats. The rest I just wasted.” They are really nice goats, though!

Woo Hoo! My First Speech "Walk Out"!

I am pleased to announce that I have had my very first "walk out" during a speech! Actually, I am a bit surprised that it took this many years of public speaking to very diverse audiences for this to happen! After all, my first memory of giving a presentation was my inspiring demonstration on making Thousand Island Dressing during my initial year as a 4-H member when I was only 8 . . . that means I am well into my third decade of public speaking!

As my close friends know, my hearing is not what it should be for an individual of my age, particularly in noisy situations. This was apparent to me during the Franklin County Fair, when I met a most pleasant gentleman who asked if I would be willing to speak to his organization. He had observed me during the Franklin Fun & Learn event at the fair. Franklin County Farm Bureau is a sponsor of this event, which focuses on educating youth on agriculture, science, nutrition, and history. In the midst of the heat of an oppressive July day, the noise of a livestock barn, and the swarm of small children I was attempting to teach . . . I didn't catch all the details, but I knew I had agreed to speak on Farm Bureau & agriculture to this gentleman's organization on August 29th!

On Monday the 29th -- still not sure to whom or where I was speaking -- I hunted down the MCL Cafeteria in Upper Arlington. The secretaries at the local Farm Bureau office had assisted me in preparing some take home items for the attendees: a copy of Buckeye Farm News, a recent issue of Our Ohio magazine, a coupon for Velvet Ice Cream, a Farm Bureau/Nationwide pen, and a membership application, all tucked inside a lovely blue bag with the Franklin County Farm Bureau logo. Upon my arrival at the MCL Cafeteria, I soon ascertained that I would be speaking to the Upper Arlington High Twelve Club. This is a Masonic fraternity group. Most of the attendees were between 65 and 80, and several were accompanied by their wife. Over my first-ever MCL lunch, I learned from my host that this group meets to socialize every Monday and they invite speakers from all walks of life.

As I opened my presentation after the meal, I told the group (of about 25-30 retirees) that I would share with them some background on my experiences in farming, update them on the impact that agriculture has on our metropolitan area, discuss my volunteer efforts with Farm Bureau, and introduce them to some of the activities & benefits that are associated with Farm Bureau membership. As I spoke, I was delighted to see how engaged the group was with my stories. I soon learned, however, that one woman was not happy with the topic . . .

During the portion where I shared my experiences as a farmer, I arrived at the point where I gave a brief discussion of my 5 years as general manager of a local slaughterhouse. As soon as I used this word, a woman in the audience shouted out: "Slaughterhouse?!?" I affirmed for the audience that this was absolutely correct, and that it had been one of the best opportunities of my life. Bear in mind, that when I discuss meat processing, I always use appropriate terminology and I am not overly graphic. I keep my audience in mind (farmers get more in-depth discussion than non-farmers). I answer questions honestly, but I am always matter-of-fact and do not sensationalize the slaughter process.

Once I reached the conclusion of this speech, I opened the floor up for questions. One of the ladies in attendance asked some questions about Halal slaughter, how it varied from Kosher, and what the process actually was during slaughter. As I was just starting to answer this question, the irate woman in the audience stood up and announced "We don't have to listen to this!" As she grabbed her purse to storm out, she also began grabbing at her husband's shirt sleeve to pull him out with her. This gentleman -- bless his heart -- never made eye contact with her and stayed for the rest of my speech!

Reflecting on this event, I was quite amused! It takes a lot to offend me, and this woman definitely made her lunch companions much more uncomfortable than she could ever make me. I have wondered what was so offensive to her. She was of an age (at least 75) that would make me think she would be more receptive to tales of agriculture. Perhaps she was an animal rights activist or vegan, and thus found me completely disturbing. I was pleased, however, by the positive reactions from the other individuals there. Multiple gentlemen told me that I was one of the best speakers they had ever hosted, so I don't think the rest of the group was in any way upset by my presentation. Several of the wives actually came up afterwards to ask me even more questions!

All in all, this was a great experience for me! I am glad I had the opportunity. I was delighted to speak with a group that was so receptive to learning about farming and Farm Bureau. I am humbled to be able to share the stories of farmers in our great state. And most of all, I am glad to know that my love for talking about agriculture can keep my mind focused even with a difficult audience member! Meat processing rocks!

FCFB Annual Meeting

Last night was the Franklin County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting held at Villa Milano in Westerville. It was a great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our organization over last year. The following are my comments made to the audience at the conclusion of the meeting.

As we wrap up our 2011 Annual Meeting, it is a true blessing that Franklin County Farm Bureau has experienced so many achievements during our previous policy year. We’ve had a lot of adventures; we’ve had a lot of fun. And it has made for numerous good stories! Those of you that know me – or read my ever-self-promoting farm blog – know that I enjoy a good story! Of course, if you were acquainted with my grandfather, Virgil Harrison, you also know that I get my love of storytelling honestly . . . although my grandfather’s stories were told twice as slow and with far fewer goats than mine contain! I love telling stories primarily because tales of agriculture are so fascinating. Farmers ARE unique! We are unlike any other community in the world! I consider it a unique pleasure to be affiliated with Franklin County Farm Bureau, and a distinct honor to be entrusted with the leadership of this organization. I am humbled by your faith in me and I thank you.

The story behind the success of Franklin County Farm Bureau in the past year is largely driven by those on our board. I always marvel at the diversity of our board members, their dedication to agriculture, and their willingness to work together to promote our organization. This year, several of our board members are moving on from the board. These are members who have contributed a remarkable spirit of leadership to our organization. It is right and fitting to take time to applaud their efforts.

When I first met Glen King, I was charmed by his warmth of spirit and his dedication to animal agriculture. We soon discovered a mutual love of sheep . . . and then distant shared cousins! Glen has given so much to agriculture in Franklin County. He has served FCFB on its policy committee and nominating committee. Glen also has an eye to the future: he is on the vanguard of researching the emerging market for sheep cheese! And I would not be surprised if Glen mastered this over the next few decades – after all, his mother (who recently celebrated her 100th birthday!) was just honored last fall as the FCFB Woman of the Year! Glen gave us quite a scare last spring with his health issues. We will miss him on the board, but look forward to keeping him involved with volunteer activities. I also want to offer a distinct thanks to Rayma King, Glen’s amazing wife. FCFB sincerely appreciates the contributions that both of you have made!

One of the first board members that I got to know well at FCFB was Bill Johnson. Bill was serving as Membership Chair and was spinning a wheel with questions about membership benefits when we met! I was a naïve, new member (who had been invited by Neall Weber to attend a Farm Bureau “dinner” – not realizing he had signed me up to work membership). Bill & Denise made me feel incredibly welcome as a volunteer and encouraged me that my efforts were valued. Bill taught me the important lesson that volunteers must always feel appreciated. Bill is resourceful, creative, and a remarkable volunteer! This was illustrated by his efforts to spearhead our “Drive in the Country” Farm Tour last fall. Bill enlisted the farms, arranged volunteer efforts, spearheaded the marketing, and worked the entire day to ensure the success of the event. While we are losing Bill’s leadership on the board, we look forward to future Farm Tours! Save the date of September 18th for the 2011 event . . . be sure to read the flier about it, and contact Bill or Roger Genter to help volunteer!

Have you ever received a fabulous & life-changing door prize? Those of us on this year’s Membership Committee sure did! This was thanks to Jack Orum, who was an amazing leader for our annual membership campaign! Jack did an outstanding job of keeping our 2011 Membership Campaign focused, successful, and fun . . . and we were well-motivated by the possibility of the fabulous & life-changing door prizes! Jack is also an integral part of our Junior Fair Livestock Sale team. This year he worked with Neil Distelhorst & Angela Ottman to support our county 4-Hers by spending $16,250 on ducks, chickens, rabbits, turkeys, a goat, lambs, hogs, and feeder calves. After that long day at the fair, I owe a huge thanks to Jack and to Jill & John Hay for helping me tear down the baby animal display area at 11pm at night . . . this is an adventure I will always remember! I couldn’t have completed that task without Jack, John, and Jill – and I owe them a debt for not mocking me too much as I loaded chicken wire, posters, a table, hay, a heat lamp, Farm Bureau beach balls, etc, etc, and – of course – goats into my SUV. I believe Jack’s final words to me as I pulled out that night were, “Just don’t get pulled over!” Like Glen & Bill, Jack is concluding six years on our county board of trustees. We look forward to keeping him active for future membership campaigns, and we sincerely appreciate all the efforts of Jack & his wife Diana to support FCFB!

Finally, Janet Weber Pfeifer is also retiring from the board this year. Janet & Jack Orum helped to spear-head this year’s ice cream social at the fair. We have so many amazing volunteers that help to coordinate the Country Olympics led by Dwight Beougher and the tee shirt giveaway led by Monica Schemrich. After these activities in a hot livestock barn, the ice cream social was well-appreciated this year! Janet is currently in Florida, and she has decided her commitments there prevent a year-round availability for FCFB. Despite this, we intend to keep her very busy with the scholarship committee and the ice cream social!

These four individuals are outstanding representatives of the FCFB board of trustees! I look forward to our upcoming year as we welcome new board members. Each program year offers new opportunities to create achievements and build memories. And we always have so much fun along the way! In Franklin County, we are blessed with the opportunity to directly reach and educate our consumers on a daily basis. Franklin County is a major metropolitan area, a research community with a land-grant university, and a hub for communications and business. Every day we have the opportunity to come in contact with many individuals . . . and we have the opportunity to educate them about farming!

It is true that other counties have larger and more numerous farm businesses. Franklin County is unique, however. I have heard a well-respected commentator refer to our county as the last stand for agriculture in Ohio. This is absolutely accurate: if we do not effectively share our message with the urban & suburban consumers that surround us, agriculture will suffer a major setback. The wonderful thing is that we can accomplish this so easily! Everyone loves a good story about farming – even farmers! What we do is unique: no other field offers the opportunity to impact every single human. Everyone eats – everyone needs agriculture! We also should embrace the fact that the farm community is small by turning the “novelty” factor into an educational opportunity . . . Americans are interested in farms & food and we can capitalize on this!

I thoroughly enjoy the farm journal that I keep on my blog, and I was fascinated to track the numbers of readers following a post I did on hog slaughter. After feeding out two pigs, I slaughtered them for my family to enjoy. On my blog I put up a picture of me with one of the hogs after it had been bled out. I openly discussed the fact that this could be viewed as a “gross” picture of a dead pig. Then I offered MY perspective that this was the successful end of hours of labor spent feeding & caring for these pigs, and the exciting start to the processing of the park, which would guarantee that my family would eat well this winter. I discussed how I raised the pigs, the slaughter process, and my thoughts on raising my own food. I was amazed that this post tracked 131 American readers, 4 from India and Russia, 3 Germans, 2 from Italy and Ukraine, and one reader each from Australia, Belgium, and China. While I would like to think that it was the glamorous photo of me wearing a big yellow butcher apron that drew them, I believe it was more likely a curiosity about meat processing.

We are incredibly fortunate: we work in a field where we raise food (which everyone eats) and our consumers are extremely curious about what we do! As farmers, we have experiences that amaze individuals who are not blessed with our lifestyle and our community. My friends who work in cubicles and live in apartments have never raised nor butchered a pig . . . but they are very intrigued by the process of doing this and the chance to join me for dinner! With this opportunity to educate, however, comes a great responsibility. We are always farmers. We always represent the farm community. What we say about farming and the manner in which we act impacts the future of agriculture. We must take this responsibility seriously as we engage consumers. Our role as farmers makes us unique, but if we are condescending – toward our consumers or toward our fellow farmers – we will not present agriculture in the fullness of its blessings.

I am very proud to be a member of FCFB! I am extraordinarily proud of our efforts to support the future of agriculture through our scholarships, through our efforts at the county fair, and through the Farm Days event at COSI. I am extremely delighted by our efforts to educate consumers through events like our farm tour, and to promote agriculture through our policy process & engagement with local officials. Our county, like our chosen field, is unique. It is full of blessings and opportunities. Speak up and tell your story!

WHY do you farm? WHY are you a 4-H leader? WHY do you scoop ice cream at our ice cream social? WHY do you offer your limited time to volunteer for FCFB? Tell these stories, reach out to your community, take pride in being a farmer! Our country needs farmers. It needs the farm community. It needs those voices to step forward and speak up for our values. As a community we know that values must be a part of successful policies. Remember: it was farmers & skilled tradesmen that founded America, and these same groups are needed today to protect the future of our amazing country. And remember that the elected volunteers and staff members of FCFB and OFBF work for YOU! Give us your feedback so that we can help you make agriculture, farm bureau, and our country even greater!

In exchange for this feedback, we even offer fabulous & life-changing door prizes! I would like to ask Jack Orum to assist me in drawing the winners from our evaluation forms.

At this point, I will ask for a motion to adjourn our meeting. Second. All in favor of the motion? The motion carries. Thank you for attending our 2011 Annual Meeting! May God bless you and may God bless our great country!

Think Before You Speak (especially if you are a farmer!)

Yesterday I was illuminated by a county president from a Farm Bureau in New England that farmers there are simply smarter than farmers in the Midwest. Farmers in New England have Master's degrees and run CSAs. They do NOT watch Nascar. They are simply more intelligent and more discerning than we Midwestern rubes.

I wish I was joking about this ridiculous elitist statement.

One of the greatest blessings of the farm community is its unity. I have been so fortunate to meet amazing individuals through my farm work and the many agricultural organizations that I belong. These friends and colleagues have supported me & my farming enterprise. Because I know the value of these bonds, I am greatly discouraged whenever I hear elitist commentary from members of our own farm community. Much of it arises because farmers think their own method of production is simply so much better than all others. I have no patience for this attitude -- we are blessed with many different market options for our products and we should rejoice in those opportunities!

I considered the impact of our attitudes during a conference I attended for Nationwide Insurance. Nationwide grew from its beginning as Ohio Farm Bureau Insurance. In the 1950s, it was renamed Nationwide to illustrate its growth. The company maintains very strong bonds with farmers, and is the number one writer of agricultural policies in the nation. I maintain my auto insurance through Nationwide, and am delighted to receive a discount on it as a member of Ohio Farm Bureau (yet another reason you should join Farm Bureau!)

This policyholder conference was an opportunity to connect with and gain feedback from representatives of state farm bureaus that partner with Nationwide. I learned a great deal about Nationwide and walked away with a positive feeling about the relationship between the company & Ohio Farm Bureau. I also came away feeling very proud of the fact that I am a member of Ohio Farm Bureau, and especially that I am a graduate of the AgriPower program. Our state farm bureau strives to promote positive relationships with consumers, works to unify the farm community, and reminds us to always maintain our professionalism as farmers. I am very proud to be afilliated with this organization.

As a county president for Ohio Farm Bureau, I have often heard the admonition that we are not just the county president for a few hours a month -- we are the county president 24 hours per day. 98% of the American population does not farm. Thus, we must always be good representatives for agriculture . . . whatever role we have in the farm community. This means considering the things we say. A condescending attitude toward other farmers helps no one. Ethnic slurs are offensive. Using perjorative terminology is unacceptable. Mocking others in farming -- particularly our workers -- is tasteless. Finally, if you come to visit Columbus, and are a guest in our fine city, please keep in mind that this is a VERY bad time to make fun of the Buckeyes!

Last night after our evening session, I returned to my hotel room and enjoyed a great documentary on PBS about President Lincoln. Despite all the pressures of the war, the presidency, and his critics, Lincoln carried on without fail in his mission to protect our great union & free our fellow man. With the advantage of time, we can appreciate this phenomenal man, yet he was widely ridiculed during his administration. Remarkably, Lincoln's keen mind and firm resolve were honed without much formal education. He did not have a Master's degree, nor did he run a CSA. (Rather, CSA meant something completely different!) It is important to remember that it is not the education that makes the man; it is the integrity of character that makes the man. Education without humility is wasted. Not every farmer has a Master's or a Bachelor's degree, or even a high school diploma. But then, neither did Abraham Lincoln -- that rough Midwestern -- who saved our country!

God Bless America & Her Farmers

In most of the adventures that turn into my best stories, there is always that moment when I find myself thinking "Of course this is happening to me . . . this would only happen to me!" I definitely had one of those experiences while celebrating Independence Day!
This was the first year that I was able to join the Franklin County Farm Bureau's float in the Hilliard Parade. My good friend, the Hay Farmer, does a fantastic job of arranging for this activity every year. He had one of his John Deere tractors hooked up to a hay wagon. The wagon had straw bales for seating and banners promoting Farm Bureau & Farm Days at COSI. The Hay Farmer had recruited some young friends to toss candy from the wagon. In addition, there were several adult volunteers from Farm Bureau who walked alonside, passing out coupons for Velvet Ice Cream.

Independence Day weekend was very busy for me with catering jobs. After working some late nights, it was a bit of a struggle to pull myself out of bed on the morning of the 4th of July! I hustled to get to Hilliard and meet up with my friends for the parade. After debating what to wear, I decided blue jeans were acceptable for a parade. The parade organized at the Franklin County Fairgrounds, and I passed by many other floats & organizations as I hurried to walk to the front of the parade line where the Farm Bureau float was waiting. I stopped to say a quick hello to the awesome Clarence Mingo, Franklin County Auditor. I also passed by some people I knew who were there to support Senator Portman. I was sorry that I did not see Congressman Steve Stivers, but many of his supporters were gathered to walk in the parade.

I finally located the Franklin County Farm Bureau float, and we were quickly ready to start the parade! It was a great event! We had absolutely perfect weather. There were large crowds and the attendees were very enthusiastic. We received an excellent response for our Farm Bureau float! I spend the first half of the parade working the crowd: "Did you get your ice cream coupon? This is for Velvet Ice Cream's new flavor sponsored by Ohio Farm Bureau: honey caramel! Support your local farmers! Eat more ice cream!" These coupons were very popular! None the less, it takes more time to walk along passing out coupons than for a tractor to move down Main Street . . . thus, I was often running to catch back up with our float!

Normally I only run when chasing pigs or evading bears, so this was a good workout for me! About halfway through the parade, it began to sink in that I had neglected to eat breakfast while hurrying to get to Hilliard. Thus, I jumped on the hay wagon and enjoyed the granola bar I had stashed in my purse. I sat with one of my girlfriends and we chatted while I rested up. In a few minutes I was restored and ready to pass out more ice cream coupons. I jumped off the moving wagon . . . and immediately heard: "RIIIIIIIPP!" Now, I've been climbing on & off moving hay wagons since I was a kid. I had never done that, however, on this particular hay wagon . . . and I was unfamiliar with the location of nails on it. A nail head managed to snag my jeans (so glad I didn't wear dress pants!) and opened them up all along the back of my upper thigh! Fortunately, I was not injured at all and nothing "inappropriate" was showing. Still, there was a LOT of visible thigh, so I thought it best for the President of the Franklin County Farm Bureau to spend the rest on the parade sitting on the float!

The conclusion of the parade went great and we began working our way back to the fairgrounds. This took quite a bit of time for the slow floats to travel. We happened to be stopped at one point, and I looked up to see that we were right next to Congressman Steve Stiver's contingent. They were decompressing after the parade, and the Congressman was right there with them! We saw each other and I went to greet him. As is usual for me with people of whom I am fond, we immediately went for the hug. At that moment, as I gave a friendly hug to one of my favorite Members of Congress, I suddenly remembered my pants were completely slit open up the back! Hoping no operatives of the other political party were there with a camera, I thought it prudent to tell the Congressman the funny story of my jeans being attacked by the hay wagon. Then I passed out ice cream coupons to all of the Congressman's supporters!

I hope you enjoyed a blessed holiday, and honored our country's glorious heritage! I also hope you enjoyed a good hot dog . . . and avoided any potential "Weiner" moments!

Another Fascinating President's Message!

Just in case you missed the most recent edition of The Conveyor, the Franklin County Farm Bureau quarterly newsletter, here is my most recent President's Message! And . . . if you would like to receive a hard copy, I would be delighted to get you signed up as a Farm Bureau member!

With the change of seasons, it is exciting to anticipate all the fun events of summertime! In agriculture, summer brings exciting new opportunities, as well as its own seasonal challenges. Farmers will be busy baling hay, harvesting fruits & vegetables, and caring for livestock during the summer months. The weather has a huge impact on the success of these endeavors: will there too little or too much rain? Will crops grow well under pleasant conditions, or will they be ravaged by drought, heat, or pests? Despite such challenges, farmers embrace the excitement of agriculture!

While the percentage of the population that farms is very small, the entire American population is served by our country’s farmers! The farm community is obviously impacted by the challenges of agriculture, the success or failure of crops, and the creation of regulatory policies that affect farming. In reality, however, such things reach EVERY American. If you eat, you are enjoying the products of farming! Whatever impacts the farmer will also impact the consumer. A wet spring that prevents planting in the Midwest, farmland being flooded in the Mississippi River region, or even a ban on earmarks that funded state wildlife predator control programs – these things might seem as though they barely touch the daily life of the typical Ohioan, but the impact on agriculture affects all of us as consumers!

As a farmer, it is very exciting to see the renewed American interest in food and farming! As new niche markets develop – organic, naturally-raised, etc – these markets offer new opportunities for farmers. Farming has been continually marked by evolution and improvements. My great-grandfather would be amazed by the changes in our farm and by the new marketing opportunities that I have as a farmer! One hundred years ago, he could not have dreamed that someday I would be able to raise meat goats for a thriving ethnic community in Columbus. Like my great-grandfather, I am driven by a passion for our farm and a love of caring for animals. Yet, I am fortunate to have new opportunities, new scientific advances, and new markets to make my career in agriculture possible. Tradition and evolution are both driving forces in farming.

Farmers work incredibly hard to provide food for consumers no matter the season. While many people enjoy cool air-conditioning inside or relaxing pools outside, farmers will be out in the heat of the day working in the fields & looking after livestock. Despite the difficulties of farming, those who engage in it are passionate about their chosen field. Farmers love sharing about their work and explaining why they do what they do! If you have questions about agriculture or about food production, talk to a farmer! Better yet, get involved with Farm Bureau’s activities and let us know your concerns as a consumer. Even if you are an associate member of Farm Bureau – and do not farm at all – we treasure your membership and your involvement!

During the summer months, Franklin County Farm Bureau hosts many exciting events! Some are social, some are educational, and these events are open to all our members. The highlight of our summer is the Franklin County Fair, which runs 16-23 July 2011 at the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Hilliard. The Franklin County Farm Bureau sponsors an educational display area in the Burke Building, where visitors can learn information about farming and see some interesting animals! While visiting the Fair, make sure you stop by to meet the chicks, goats, and a very personable donkey!

The Franklin County Farm Bureau is dedicated to supporting agriculture and to connecting farmers & consumers! Many of our fair activities are designed to meet these goals. Farm Bureau is the largest financial supporter of the Junior Fair Sale and of the Creative Baking Competition, and also sponsors the Junior Fair Poster Contest. By using its financial resources to aid young members of the community, Farm Bureau creates opportunities for our youth to develop their skills and prepare for the future. Farm Bureau is also a major sponsor of the Franklin Fun & Learn event, which will take place on Wednesday 20 July 2011. Franklin Fun & Learn is an educational day that brings children from the YMCA Camp and the Free Lunch Program to the Franklin County Fair. These young people take part in several activities to increase their knowledge about farming, thus helping to teach our future consumers about agriculture.

To achieve these things, Franklin County Farm Bureau needs YOU! Franklin County Farm Bureau sincerely appreciates its members who provide the financial resources to keep our organization successful. Have you renewed your membership for 2011? If so, THANK YOU! Are you ready to do more with Farm Bureau? Our volunteers make our events possible, and we would be delighted to have your participation! Contact our county office to volunteer for one of our fun Fair activities at 614.876.1274. Want to learn more about farming? Always feel free to contact me at kmhh13@yahoo.com. Dwight Beougher (Chair for our Food & Animal Issues Team) and I are both delighted to serve as speakers on agriculture. Farm Bureau is YOUR organization! With your support, Franklin County Farm Bureau can successfully connect farmers & consumers!

Happy Christmas from the Goats!

This has certainly been a year of changes for me, but during the Christmas Season it is easy to see all the blessings around me! I am incredibly fortunate to have my brother (who is studying in Egypt) visiting the farm for Christmas! It is an absolute joy to be able to share the holiday with the people you love! We are looking forward to seeing our extended family during the Christmas season. God often sends us families that are not connected to us by blood, but rather by love. We are grateful to have many friends who have become family members to us, and we look forward to celebrating with them over Christmas!

I am incredibly blessed to have a group of former student assistants who have become treasured friends of mine, and are truly my "kids"! These are amazing young people who enrich my life and I am so appreciative of their support. We have a great time together, and they are always willing to assist me on the farm when I need extra sets of hands! I am also quite lucky to have my friends Angie & TEC who offer their support to me & the goats! My buck is currently breeding their does, and we are enjoying our "goat partnership". Goat people are great people and Angie & TEC are prime examples of this!

I have been incredibly fortunate this past year to have many educational experiences through the Ohio Farm Bureau, the Ohio Sheep Improvement Association, and the American Goat Federation! I have learned a great deal and met amazing individuals in these groups. Many of these professional acquaintances have become treasured friends and I am so delighted to have them in my world! These friends have promoted my farming enterprise and supported me on a personal level, and I cannot offer my thanks sincerely enough!

Every year has its challenges, but this allows us to appreciate the sweetness of life all the more! Raising livestock definitely gives me many opportunities to work on developing patience & fortitude, but I would not change my chosen work for anything! I feel very fortunate to have found flexible part-time jobs that allow me to focus on the farm & my family. I could not do these things without the love & support of all my friends! They are always there as my cheering section, to help in a crisis, and to celebrate life's joys! I am incredibly blessed! I hope that this Christmas season will likewise be one of great happiness for you & yours!

Photo Caption: Celebrating with two of my favorite goatherds!

Ohio Farm Bureau's Rocking Annual Meeting!

I wrote this piece on Ohio Farm Bureau's Annual Meeting for inclusion in Franklin County Farm Bureau's quarterly newsletter, The Conveyor! Annual Meeting was absolutely fantastic this year! Hope you enjoy reading about the Farm Bureau policy process!

One of the greatest assets of Farm Bureau is its history as a grassroots organization! Farm Bureau was founded by farmers for the benefit of farmers. Over the years, Farm Bureau has welcomed members that are not involved in agriculture, but support the farm community. At Franklin County Farm Bureau we value each of our members! This is YOUR organization, and each member has the opportunity to influence the future of Farm Bureau by participating in policy development!

The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation held its 2010 Annual Meeting in Columbus on December 1-3. Franklin County Farm Bureau was fortunate to have an excellent group serving as delegates to the meeting: Barry Conrad, Glen King, Jack Orum, and Jeff Schilling. These gentlemen – dedicated farmers & successful businessmen each – worked to represent the interests of our county during the delegate sessions with representatives from all 87 county Farm Bureaus. (87 counties? Doesn’t Ohio have 88 counties? Yes! Jackson County & Vinton County work together in one organization!)

Annual Meeting is a great opportunity for delegates from the county Farm Bureau organizations to network, share ideas, and discuss the future of Ohio Farm Bureau. This year, delegates had the opportunity to hear presentations on health care, the next Farm Bill, and the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board, as well as an address from Dr. Gordon Gee on the future of OSU Extension. Delegates participated in two days of policy work as a voting body, working to craft Ohio Farm Bureau’s agenda for the upcoming year. In addition, representatives to the State Board of Trustees were elected. Franklin County extends its congratulations – and appreciation – to Andra Troyer for her re-election as the Southwest District Women’s Trustee!

While much work is accomplished and great conviviality is enjoyed, Annual Meeting is not the start of the policy process for Ohio Farm Bureau! In fact, the policy development process starts with YOU! Every year, Franklin County Farm Bureau solicits policy proposals from its members that participate in Advisory Councils. What is an Advisory Council? It is one of the best ways to get involved in Farm Bureau and have great fun! Advisory Councils are groups that meet to socialize and discuss issues. In Franklin County we have several councils, ranging from groups that meet for breakfast to groups that meet for Happy Hour or dinner! Most councils meet 8-12 times per year, and discuss suggested topics that might be related to agriculture (livestock care, genetic modification of seeds, environmental stewardship), or might be issues of general concern (school funding, social media, sustainable energy). If you are interested in joining a council or starting your own, contact the Franklin County Farm Bureau office for more information! Then, when advisory councils put together their proposed policy suggestions, you can be a part of the process!

The Policy Action Team takes the policy suggestions from councils, recruits ideas from county governmental leaders at their annual county luncheon, and invites new proposals from individuals at the annual policy development session. Franklin County is fortunate to have Jeff Schilling as our Policy Action Team Leader! Jeff did a fantastic job this past year of leading the team in analyzing suggestions for local, state, and national policy! It is quite a bit of work to look at a variety of proposals and analyze if our county can have an impact on the local level with those suggestions, whether it is for the well-being of the state & nation, and if current policy already exists on these matters. From this point, the Policy Action Team submits proposed policies to the Franklin County Board of Trustees for review. Once the board approves these suggestions, the policies are brought to the membership of Franklin County Farm Bureau at our county Annual Meeting. (Yet another great reason to attend Annual Meeting: delicious food, fellowship with other members, AND the chance to participate in the policy process!)

All 87 county Farm Bureaus then send their policies on to the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation. Just as the county has a committee to offer recommendations, the state also has a policy development committee. I had the pleasure of serving on that committee this year, along with nine other county presidents and representatives from the State Board of Trustees. It is fascinating to read the ideas offered by each county! The Policy Development Committee is divided into subcommittees which focus on certain areas, and I had the opportunity to work on the section that focused on government & tax concerns. The subcommittees analyze proposals from each county on state & federal issues, compare them to current policy, and then offer proposals to the full committee for approval.

In Franklin County, as with other county organizations, we select our delegates to OFBF’s Annual Meeting during our county’s annual meeting. These individuals are provided with copies of the recommended policy suggestions from the Policy Development Committee prior to the state annual meeting. There, delegates vote on the proposals from that committee and offer ideas of their own. Once OFBF approves its state and national policy suggestions, the state president is charged to take those ideas to American Farm Bureau at their annual meeting. Thus, from the suggestions of individual members at the county level, the democratic process of Farm Bureau influences policy decisions all the way to the national level!

Do you have ideas for the future of Farm Bureau? Do you have concerns about policy issues related to agriculture? Are you upset about something? GOOD! Farm Bureau thrives when its members decide to get involved and take action! This is YOUR organization! It flourishes or languishes based on YOUR involvement! Join an advisory council, attend a policy session, volunteer to help with membership, assist with educational events. . . our volunteers are truly treasured! If you are looking for suggestions on getting involved, always feel free to contact me or another member of the Board of Trustees! We look forward to hearing from you!

Katherine M Harrison
Kmhh13@yahoo.com

Photo Caption: Franklin County Farm Bureau's delegates pose together at Annual Meeting!