Rural Lifestyle on Highway 6

Ed & Lynn Fallon - Keeping It Rural

Ed Fallon, who has been a guest on Highway 6 Radio, loves organics and urban gardening.  He  will tell you he and his wife, Lynn are "political organizers" and that's true.  They also love "simple" and "rural" and people.  This past Sunday we were invited to an event where Ed and Lynn celebrated their wedding of five months ago.  It was held at Living History Farms in the 1871 Flynn Barn.  What a hoot.

And what a message....

Some of the folks who came by to celebrate could be counted among the more progressive political folks in the area.  And, then again there were those who may not necessarly agree with Ed and Lynn's politics...but love them and wanted to celebrate this wonderful event.

It was a classic Ed & Lynn Fallon party.  Folks brought food...it was a "pot luck" style feed.  The amount of interesting and even organic items and foods from small rural farms loaded up the tables.

The beer and wine served during the afternoon event...all Iowa made & brewed.

The music might well have been played for returning soldiers from the Civil War...and the dances matched the music.  What a celebration made simple...

Anybody know how to "Allemande Left", "Chasse" or "Do-Si-Do"?  Me either...but with the help of the experts...we learned, laughted and had a wonderful time..being, for just a bit...our great grandparents.

My friend, Rekha Basu from the Des Moines Register, asked if I knew what Ed's political plans might be.  A former Iowa House Member, Ed has not always seen eye-to-eye with the Democratic leaders of Iowa.  He ran for Governor against Chet Culver and then against Congressman Leonard Boswell.  Both times falling short.  But, making friends...and some enemies along the way.

But...this wasn't a night for politics...or much politics.  It was a wonderful early summer Sunday evening that was made for barns, old dances and getting together to celebrate two very unique folks.

It was fun....and thanks for the invite.  We'll have you guys back on the show soon!

More photos...how much fun!  If you want to enlarge each, just click on them...enjoy!

 

Thanks for reading...and what a great event!

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner & Host

Rural Lifestyle News, Information and Hostas? May 31

Highway 6 Your Road to the Country is all about the rural lifestyle.  We're heard each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM or from anywhere on the planet if you use your computer to listen live! But...if you missed the live show:

Just Click Here for the Podcast from today!

So...what's up this morning?

We're going to visit with Marsha Ansevics from the Flying Frog Hosta Farm.   Hey...the Ansevics live on 20 acres about 4.5 miles south of Des Moines.  This is their 8th year selling Hostas and garden gifts.  We'll talk about why they got into the business, why they live the rural lifestyle, just how is the Hosta Business and what they have done to attract customers from...the city. 

And, as usual...I'll learn more than anybody about Hosta Plants..they seem to be the rage and we'll, together, figure out...why.

They have 900 different types of Hosta Plants...who knew?

In other news we're following:

What's up with my friends at Hy-Vee?   Hy-Vee is a regional grocery store with roots right here in Iowa.  So, imagine my surprise when I visit the local Urbandale store and at each checkout lane there is a bottle of hand sanitizer and a color brochure that "proudly" has the Hy-Vee logo along with these words:  "Seasonal Flu", "Swine Flu", "Pandemic Flu".  And, "You might have heard something in the news about swine flu or a possible pandemic."

This from a grocery store chain in the state where the Secretary of Agriculture told us just two weeks ago that pork producers are losing $2.5 million a day and the USDA Secretary of Agriculture has begged the media to call this flu anything but "swine flu" because it sends the wrong message to consumers who "think" you can catch something from pork. 

We spoke with Ron Birkenholz, the director of communications for the Iowa Pork Producers who said, "Great, just what we don't need." and went on to say that they had not heard about the brochure and clearly were not involved.  However, we can tell you who was, the Food Marketing Institute out of Arlington, VA.  Seems they made the brochure and Hy-Vee stuck their name on it?  Anyway..thanks guys.  Nice PR move.  Bet the "spin" is on education.

Other stories we're following:

• Rural Detroit?  You are NOT going to believe this one...but it makes sense!
• Food Waste - The US throws away more and more food...big story.
• Organics - Worth the effort or a marketing ploy?
• Elvis - Has left the building on his JD 4010 restored tractor.
• Dairy Prices - Farmers get less...you pay more.
• Beef - It's Leaving Missouri.

All of this...and your calls, questions and input.  You can follow us during the show and off the air on Twitter:  @RuralLifeRadio.

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country...each Sunday morning at 8!

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is proudly brought to you by:

Kubota and Capital City Equipment- Owing a small farm or acreage means you've got work to do.  Why not partner with a real "workhorse", a Kubota tractor and all the attachments you'll need.  Get 'em from Capital City Equipment in Ames and Des Moines.  Go Orange with Kubota!

Country Vet Pet Food – A complete line of pet food for your best friend.  You can find your dealer on-line or, here in Central Iowa, you can pick up Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners!"

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - Owning a horse has it's issues.  One of them is the equine digestive system.  Now, with Running Horse, that's less an issue than before.  Running Horse is formulated to help prevent digestive problems while creating a better horse..from inside out.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

AquaFuzion of Iowa - Clean, great tasting water is what they do.  Stop wasting money on bottled water, replacement of appliances and using more and more soaps.  Rural or urban, AquaFuzion of Iowa and the General Electric Pro-Elite water system brings you water that is...perfect

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - We're a full service advertising agency that specializes in rural lifestyle and agriculture.  You make a product or service...let us help you make it great with a solid marketing plan.

Michael Libbie - Acreage Owner & Host

 

 

 

Eden's Organic Farm, Lyle Steinman & Memorial Day 2009

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is this nations first live talk show centered on the Rural Lifestyle.  We talk about small farms, acreages, horses, chickens, organics...the rural lifestyle.  We're heard each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM  (983wowfm) if you live in Central Iowa OR...during the show you can listen live using your PC.  If you missed the show from today no fear:

NOW you can LISTEN using the PODCAST - Here it is!

This is the Memorial Day Weekend.  For many it's "another day off" without any knowledge of the meaning of the holiday.  For some of us it's a time to reflect on the service and sacrifice so many have made just so I could sit behind this microphone and share the news and opinion...and you could listen.  Today I read an article I wrote several years ago that led to my termination as a writer for a national magazine.  It's as hot a topic today as what it was in 2006.  Maybe you'll agree...and maybe you won't.  Let's find out?   Click the podcast to hear.

We've got two guests this morning.  First up is Lyle Steinman of Rural Missouri.  Lyle recently took first, second, third and fifth place at the Super Retreiver Series (SRS) Crown Championship.  That has NEVER happened before...   Lyle is an amazing breeder and trainer of sporting dogs and we'll ask him to share with us the thrill of doing something that no other canine / human team has ever accomplished.  Lyle is a returning guest to Highway 6 and we're glad to have him back.

Honest...he swept the entire event...it's got the sporting dog world shaking their collective heads.  Did I mention Lyle is also the National Spokesperson for our friends at Country Vet Pet Foods?   Hey, we do what we can for our friends and we're more than proud of Lyle, Debby and the entire crew at Castile Creek Kennels!

Also on the show is Marie Tedei of Eden's Organic Farm near Dallas, Texas.  We  found Marie one day last month when she was on Twitter commenting on the ban her small town set on having roosters within city limits and limiting hens to just two birds per household.  But, if you are shaking your collective heads and wondering what the big deal is...you need to know that just last week here in Central Iowa the city council of Norwalk enacted a similar ban.  Allowing four chickens...but no roosters.  Somebody might want to clue these folks in that chickens don't last long....without roosters.  We think it's silly...but clearly we must call on government to protect us from...gasp....chickens and roosters and lions and bears...oh my!

Along with chickens and roosters we'll visit with Marie about her Community Supported Agriculture program, her organic mission and just why in the heck did she leave Chicago and head to (what once was) Rural Texas.  Should be a fun visit with our new friend Marie Tedei of Eden's Organic Farm and CSA.

In other news we're following but may not have time for during the broadcast:

• Chickens in the back yard becoming Chic from NPR.
• HSUS Can't take the heat and has TV station pull a story.
• Is North Dakota Next?  The Emerald Ash Borer migration.
• Moving to Rural America just got less expenseive.

We're going to try to squeeze in a story about "black dogs" and why they linger longer at animal rescue facilities.  It comes to us from the Animal Rescue League of Iowa but we couldn't find a link anywhere on their site.  The brief story is that, "... many times black dogs are overlooked", says a receint news paper release.  "Maybe it's because they are harder to see in the back of their kennel or people fear a black dog or the website shots are not able to depict their featurers as well as a light tan or brown dog."  The ARL has started the "Black Dog Club" and folks that adopt a black dog or one that has 51% black in its coat is in.  Supporters of the Black Dog Club can donate $10 a year, get a shirt and a thank you from Black Dogs...everywhere.  Fun.

Got a propane tank...for your grill?  According to an Associated Press story that ran last week it seems some exchange centers have been "shorting" the amount of propane put into "exchange tanks" by just a bit...thereby increasing the price to consumers.  In other words...a price increase...or a con.  The answer?  Take your propane tank to a re-fill center on your own rather than an exchange center.  Here is the take on the story from WCBS-TV NYC.

Yikes...gotta go!  Have a great Memorial Day Weekend...and while having fun...take time to remember....  Once again, here is the PODCAST from todays show.

 Kubota and Capital City Equipment- Owing a small farm or acreage means you've got work to do.  Why not partner with a real "workhorse", a Kubota tractor and all the attachments you'll need.  Get 'em from Capital City Equipment in Ames and Des Moines.  Go Orange with Kubota!

Country Vet Pet Food – A complete line of pet food for your best friend.  You can find your dealer on-line or, here in Central Iowa, you can pick up Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners!"

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - Owning a horse has it's issues.  One of them is the equine digestive system.  Now, with Running Horse, that's less an issue than before.  Running Horse is formulated to help prevent digestive problems while creating a better horse..from inside out.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

AquaFuzion of Iowa - Clean, great tasting water is what they do.  Stop wasting money on bottled water, replacement of appliances and using more and more soaps.  Rural or urban, AquaFuzion of Iowa and the General Electric Pro-Elite water system brings you water that is...perfect

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - We're a full service advertising agency that specializes in rural lifestyle and agriculture.  You make a product or service...let us help you make it great with a solid marketing plan.

Michael Libbie - Acreage Owner & Host

 

Two Guests, Two States, Too Cool - Rural Lifestyle this Sunday

It's the Memorial Day Weekend.  For many that means just another day off.  For some of us it means we're remembering those who gave everything so we could watch American Idol.  Pretty lame huh?  On the show, Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country we'll talk a little about that.  How..."what we are and what we do"...does it square with those who gave all?  Or, could we do better?  We'll talk about it.

This is rural lifestyle radio and we're heard each Sunday morning at 8 Central on 98.3 WOW-FM...if you live in Central Iowa.  If not you can head to 983wowfm and listen live using your computer.  Here, again, is that link!

On the show this Sunday we've got TWO great guests.  We'll be talking to former "Chi- Town" resident Marie Tedei who now is very active in Community Supported Agriculture and organics.  Marie (her last name is pronounced "to-day") gave up the city life for a life filled with critters and veggies.  Today she lives in Balch Springs, Texas and is passionate about organics and better living.  She is working hard to save her roosters from a city council that says they've 'gotta go'.  (We are NOT making this up.  Who would have thought that having chickens and roosters would be a bad thing?)  Her story sets up the classic "David vs. Goliath" event about how an environmental sensitive person ends up battling "city hall". 

Marie isn't just about roosters and horses....she has a strong motivation in growing organic foods, CSA's and teaching others about the benefits of buying fresh and local.  "Knowing where your food comes from and that it's really safe to eat should be a major concern of all consumers."  Join us this Sunday morning at 8 Central Time as we visit with Marie Tedei of Eden's Organic Farm...this will be both fun...and informative.

Our first guest of the morning is returning guest.  Lyle Steinman raises and trains some of the best sporting dogs on the planet.  His facility, Castile Creek Kennels,  is a beautiful 40 acre home-place and set of outbuildings near St. Joseph, MO.  When we write, "Best dogs on the planet..."  That's not just a wishful boast...  You see, Lyle Steinman just won the Super Retreiver Series(SRS) Crown Championship.  Actually, Lyle and his dogs took first place...and second place....and...ahhh...third place in a medal sweep that has the national event participants shaking their heads in disbelief.  (Um...Lyle also took fifth place...not rubbing it in or anything..)  We'll talk briefly with Lyle about the past year and what it takes to be a champion at this level and his commitment to the sport.  And, it doesn't hurt that Lyle is a national spokesperson for our client, Country Vet Pet Foods.  (See how we worked that in...crafty huh?) Lyle Steinman...going to the dogs...Sunday on Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.

Two guests from two different states and both have that love for the Rural Lifestyle.  Too cool!

We'll also follow up on several news stories we are tracking and give you information you just won't hear anywhere else...because there isn't anything like Highway 6 Radio...anywhere.  We're live and streaming all over the country.  Join us all week long by making comments on this BLOG (see the comment section below?)  and on Twitter where you can write to @RuralLifeRadio.  Thanks for reading...come back to listen on Sunday?

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is proudly brought to you by:

Kubota and Capital City Equipment- Owing a small farm or acreage means you've got work to do.  Why not partner with a real "workhorse", a Kubota tractor and all the attachments you'll need.  Get 'em from Capital City Equipment in Ames and Des Moines.  Go Orange with Kubota!

Country Vet Pet Food – A complete line of pet food for your best friend.  You can find your dealer on-line or, here in Central Iowa, you can pick up Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners!"

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - Owning a horse has it's issues.  One of them is the equine digestive system.  Now, with Running Horse, that's less an issue than before.  Running Horse is formulated to help prevent digestive problems while creating a better horse..from inside out.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

AquaFuzion of Iowa - Clean, great tasting water is what they do.  Stop wasting money on bottled water, replacement of appliances and using more and more soaps.  Rural or urban, AquaFuzion of Iowa and the General Electric Pro-Elite water system brings you water that is...perfect

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - We're a full service advertising agency that specializes in rural lifestyle and agriculture.  You make a product or service...let us help you make it great with a solid marketing plan.

Michael Libbie - Acreage Owner & Host

 

 

Cycling & Rural Economic Development and Water...

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is this nations rural lifestyle radio show heard each Sunday morning at 8 Central Time by using your computer or, if you live in Central Iowa, on 98.3 WOW-FM (983wowfm) which reaches about 75 miles out from our studios in Des Moines.  The show is about living on small farms, acreages, raising horses to meat goats and rural economic development.  We hope you'll join us Sunday morning at 8! Follow us during the show and all week long on Twitter @RuralLifeRadio.

And, in case you missed the live show...Here is the PODCAST!   (We had a slight tech issue at the top of the show...sorry about that.  New folks producing this morning.)

We're taking some time off the "heavy issues" to talk about some fun!  On this show this week...we're talking how cycling can assist the economic development of rural towns.  Our first guest is Dan Kruzic of the Des Moines Cycle Club as we talk about the upcoming overnight ride, Tour the Raccoon  from Des Moines to Jefferson, Iowa.  It's the 60-mile ride through the rural towns of Waukee, Adel, Redfield, Linden, Panora, Yale, Herndon, Cooper and overnight in Jefferson to take in the Bell Tower Festival.  We'll talk about how an event like this impacts the small towns and the people who live there...it is, we think, another economic development opportunity that adds to the vital nature of our rural communities.  Dan Kruzic, Sunday morning on Highway 6!

Our second guest is Aaron Libbie of AquaFuzion of Iowa.  Yes, Aaron is my son and he's got something to say about water.  During the past week the Des Moines Register had two front page stories about the quality of drinking water here in Iowa.  Like many of us we tend to take water for granted.  Here in Iowa it's always been considered plentiful and clean...but according to the news stories...there's serious issues with what people are drinking everyday.  And...we'll talk about bottled water and what folks are really getting when you pony up $1.49 for a plastic container full of....what exactly?  We'll do the math and talk about the rural and urban concern.  Aaron Libbie, Sunday morning on Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.

In addition to our two guests we'll have a little time to take a look at several other stories making rural news.  We'll share with you news about The United Organizations of the Horse.  This brand new umbrella group has been founded to bring together the vast voices of the equine industry.  Breeders, to horse rescue folks all unite within one "community" to call public attention to the American Horse.  We'll tell you more about the story.  Here is the link to their site, EquuiVox.

Medical care and Rural America - We've got two brief stories:  One from out of Iowa where there is a severe nursing shortage and the other about mental health and Nebraska.  Serious stuff on the horizon that we think can be managed with some creative thinking and action.  We'll tell you about it.

In other stories, that we've been following but won't have the air time to cover, learn about:

• Ever wonder what the Farmer's Share of a Food Dollar is?  Here ya go!

• Do animals have "rights"?  You may be surprised;

• Rural Creativity - The Rural Economic Driver?  Good stuff from The Daily Yonder.

• Going "Wireless" in Rural America? It's coming...fast with Gov't dollars.

Let's grab a cup of coffee Sunday morning at 8 Central and spend some time on Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.   Thank's for reading and for listening!

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is proudly brought to you by:

 Kubota and Capital City Equipment- Owing a small farm or acreage means you've got work to do.  Why not partner with a real "workhorse", a Kubota tractor and all the attachments you'll need.  Get 'em from Capital City Equipment in Ames and Des Moines.  Go Orange with Kubota!

Country Vet Pet Food – A complete line of pet food for your best friend.  You can find your dealer on-line or, here in Central Iowa, you can pick up Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners!"

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - Owning a horse has it's issues.  One of them is the equine digestive system.  Now, with Running Horse, that's less an issue than before.  Running Horse is formulated to help prevent digestive problems while creating a better horse..from inside out.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

AquaFuzion of Iowa - Clean, great tasting water is what they do.  Stop wasting money on bottled water, replacement of appliances and using more and more soaps.  Rural or urban, AquaFuzion of Iowa and the General Electric Pro-Elite water system brings you water that is...perfect

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - We're a full service advertising agency that specializes in rural lifestyle and agriculture.  You make a product or service...let us help you make it great with a solid marketing plan.

Michael Libbie - Acreage Owner & Host

 

Today - Women, Agriculture and Trends

Happy Mother's Day!  Welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country!  We're this nations only live talk show dealing with the rural lifestyle and the folks who live it.  We're heard each Sunday morning at 8 (Central Time) on local radio station 98.3 WOW - FM (983wowfm) or you can hear us nearly anywhere on the planet by using your computer What a great show from today:

Here is the PODCAST!

Today we've got two guests talking about the expanding role of women in agriculture and agri-business.  All the way from Maryland comes Kimberly Burns who owns an online horse and rural lifestyle business, Your Equine Source.  Up for about a year and a half Your Equine Source is a blend of her horse passion and her ability to link people with what they want.  Kimberly also lives on an acreage and gets it...when it comes to rural.

Our second guest is Leigh Adcock.  Leigh is the executive director of the Women, Food & Agriculture Network based in Central Iowa.  WFAN began back in 1994 as a working group dedicated to remedy the absence of women's voices in food and agriculture policy-making.  Since that time WFAN has branched out tackling agri-business issues, education, sustainable agriculture and conservation practices.  Leigh shares with us the trends in women landowners, small and mid-size agri-businesses start ups (like Kimberly's) and a host of issues related to their mission.

Good stuff...

In addition we covered these rural life news stories:

If you've followed this show for awhile you know how often we've talked about neglected and unwanted horses.  We've tried to raise money for rescue centers, talked to vets and horse people about the problem and we've tried to look, rationally at horse processing as an answer.  But..not a lot of action.  We think it's because the issue has lacked visual impact.  That's changed now that we've found A Million Horses.  Before we go on a word of caution:  A Million Horses is NOT for the faint of heart.  Here you'll find the photos and the stories of hundreds of horses left on their own...to attempt to survive left in pens, corrals, trailers and tied to trees.  It's not pretty...but it's real.  Beware.

Organic Food and Fiber..how are they doing?  Great, according to a new piece of research by the Lieberman Research Group.  The survey, released just last week, says organic food sales increased by nearly 16 percent in 2008.  Even in the face of an economic slowdown sales last year rose to $22.9 billion.  And, products other than food like personal care products and fibers increased by 39.4 percent last year to $1.64 billion.  Why?  We think several reasons:  1) A more health conscious country, 2) Country of Origin labeling now tells shoppers just where their food is grown and much of it has come from areas of the planet with questionable health histories...like Mexico, 3) Domestic food manufacturers and grocers have failed to lower their prices even after the spike in grain prices last year, which they blamed on the rising cost of food.  Those costs are now not so far out of line with traditionally higher priced organics.  Here is the full story from the Organic Trade Association.

So, interested in making some money? Maybe it's time to turn your small farm or acreage into an agri-tourism spot.  We picked up this story from the Southeast Farm Press about the growing rural economy built on small scale farming, ranching and other agri-related efforts and how they are attractive alternatives for urban folks seeking less costly entertainment and learning.  It's something we've written about before...but this is further evidence of a rural economic development tool you can use to boost income and your relationship with our urban cousins.

And, some quick takes about rural issues you'll not find in many places:

• Tom Brokaw made a big mistake in his report on how urban counties are better off and  more frugal than rural counties.  Here is that story from our friends at The Daily Yonder. 
• How is it that urban newspapers continue to fail while small town papers are seeing good times?  Here is that story.  Once again The Daily Yonder has a different take on "the news".
• Big news out of California other than wild fires:  Major rural broadband legislation for many folks could push the state into better times through rural economic development.
• And, talk about "mixed signals" regarding the economy.  The Christian Science Monitor wants you to know that in Sioux Center, Iowa folks are asking, "Recession?  What recession?"  Interesting read.

There you have it...news, information, commentary and guests all packed into this hour of Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.  Remember, you can listen live by clicking this link or if you live in Central Iowa tune into 98.3 WOW-FM.  You can follow us on Twitter during the show...and after, here is that link:  @RuralLifeRadio or you can use the old fashioned method and call: 866-908-8255 or 312-0983.

And, once again...here is the PODCAST from Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country where you can hear the entire event...on your own time.

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is brought to you by:

Kubota and Capital City Equipment- Owing a small farm or acreage means you've got work to do.  Why not partner with a real "workhorse", a Kubota tractor and all the attachments you'll need.  Get 'em from Capital City Equipment in Ames and Des Moines.  Go Orange with Kubota!

Country Vet Pet Food – A complete line of pet food for your best friend.  You can find your dealer on-line or, here in Central Iowa, you can pick up Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners!"

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - Owning a horse has it's issues.  One of them is the equine digestive system.  Now, with Running Horse, that's less an issue than before.  Running Horse is formulated to help prevent digestive problems while creating a better horse..from inside out.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

AquaFuzion of Iowa - Clean, great tasting water is what they do.  Stop wasting money on bottled water, replacement of appliances and using more and more soaps.  Rural or urban, AquaFuzion of Iowa and the General Electric Pro-Elite water system brings you water that is...perfect

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - We're a full service advertising agency that specializes in rural lifestyle and agriculture.  You make a product or service...let us help you make it great with a solid marketing plan.

Michael Libbie - Acreage Owner & Host

This Sunday - Rural Lifestyle Women & Business

Welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country this nations first rural lifestyle radio show dealing with living on small farms, acreages, and agriculture.  We're heard at 8am Central Time  on 98.3 WOW-FM (983wowfm) here in Central Iowa or you can listen live using your computer, here's the link.

Following the show we'll post the podcast so you can listen when you want...pretty cool huh?

It's happening all over the country as women, who live a rural lifestyle, seek to start their own businesses or take over the farm.  The recent USDA Census of Agriculture showed a continuing trend of female operators across the agri-business sector.

This Sunday, in addition to our rural lifestyle news updates, we're going to visit with several women who have been smack in the middle of this movement.  We'll be talking with Kimberly Burns of Your Equine Source.  That's Kimberly and her daughter Kaitlynn working a trade show booth.  Both women are horse people and live on an 80 acre facility in Maryland.  Your Equine Sourceis the online resource for all sorts of products and services.  When we talked Kimberly told me it was a natural reaction to what she has done for years...connecting people with equine products and services. 

We'll also visit with Leigh Adcock the executive director of the Women, Food and Agriculture Network(WFAN) based in Central Iowa.  WFAN is a community of women involved in sustainable agriculture.  Made up of farmers, acreage owners, researchers, agri-business professionals and consumers, WFAN exists as a connection and information source for women involved in agriculture, local food issues, conservation and a host of management issues.  We'll also visit a bit about public policy issues of concern to the group.

In addition to working with WFAN, Leigh also lives the rural lifestyle on an acreage near Ames and, like most of us, has a legion of critters she and her husband and two boys enjoy...well most days...

Kimberly Burns, Leigh Adcock, you...and more this Sunday morning on Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.

Join us for a great conversation this Sunday morning at 8 by using your computer or locally here in Central Iowa at 98.3 WOW-FM.  Follow us on Twitter all week long @RuralLifeRadio!

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is proudly brought to you by:

Allied Insurance - For insurance answers for your small farm, acreage, business or vehicle see you local independent Allied Insurance Agent.  Allied Insurance - "Now with Country Choice, for the way you live."

Kubota and Capital City Equipment- Owing a small farm or acreage means you've got work to do.  Why not partner with a real "workhorse", a Kubota tractor and all the attachments you'll need.  Get 'em from Capital City Equipment in Ames and Des Moines.  Go Orange with Kubota!

Country Vet Pet Food – A complete line of pet food for your best friend.  You can find your dealer on-line or, here in Central Iowa, you can pick up Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners!"

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - Owning a horse has it's issues.  One of them is the equine digestive system.  Now, with Running Horse, that's less an issue than before.  Running Horse is formulated to help prevent digestive problems while creating a better horse..from inside out.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

AquaFuzion of Iowa - Clean, great tasting water is what they do.  Stop wasting money on bottled water, replacement of appliances and using more and more soaps.  Rural or urban, AquaFuzion of Iowa and the General Electric Pro-Elite water system brings you water that is...perfect

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - We're a full service advertising agency that specializes in rural lifestyle and agriculture.  You make a product or service...let us help you make it great with a solid marketing plan.

Michael Libbie - Acreage Owner & Host

Highway 6 Radio - Sunday May 3

Welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country heard each Sunday morning at 8 Central Time.  We're this nation's first, live news/talk radio show dedicated to living on small farms, acreages and rural economic development.  The show isn't only about living the rural lifestyle...we also talk about ways to increase the market potential of your small rural business.  We talk about innovative ideas to boost the economy in the tiny towns that dot our wonderful country.

We're all about rural...and proud of it.  If you missed the show, no problem - Here is the Podcast!

You can hear us live using your computer if you head to 983wowfm.   OR, if you happen to live in Central Iowa you can listen live at 98.3 WOW-FM.  Our studios are on the NW edge of Urbandale, Iowa and we boom out a good 75 miles.

On the show today we talked with  Iowa's Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey.  He's taking some time out of his schedule to come on and talk about the Iowa impact of H1N1.  It's a timely discussion as one school district, just today, announced they are closing schools due to six suspected cases hitting Marshalltown.  In addition, Iowa ranks as the number one producer of pork.  What is the impact regarding the confusion over the name and transmission of H1N1.  We'll also talk about the reality of farmers concerns.  Secretary of Agricluture, Bill Northey...today on Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.

The Des Moines, Iowa Farmers Market celebrated opening day yesterday and the crowds were large and seemed ready to buy.  Our second guest today is Julie Wilbur of Wilbur's Northside Market near Boone, Iowa.  Julie and her husband made the switch from urban to rural several years ago and along with farmers markets they are active in Community Supported Agriculture(CSA).  We'll talk about the transition, the business, farmers markets and what folks should be planting...right now.  Julie Wilbur...today.

In other news were following several stories...here you go:

If you live in Rural America the USDA has some money for you in the form of Cooperative Center Grants.  Tom Vilsack, former Governor of Iowa and current US Secretary of Agriculture announced the grant release last week.  PERFECT idea for those of you wanting to start up a community based highspeed Internet work center?  Come on, you know it's a good idea...  Here is the story.

More and more horses are finding themselves at rescues as the economy continues to put pressure on the rural and urban horse owners.  That fact stretches the ability of horse rescue operations to function...  It's a story we've covered for over a year and it's not gotten any better. Here is another example...this time from Delaware.

The president of the Humane Society of the United States makes a challenge to American Agriculture...it makes for an interesting read.

And, finally a little "livestock news" of our own.  After the show last week our African Gray Parrot - Kunta flew out of an opened door.  We've been searching for nearly a week.  Here is the story from our advertising agency blog.  If you can help pass the word, like so many others...we'd be grateful.

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country...all of this and so much more...  And, we're with you all week too.  We're on Twitter @RuralLifeRadio so you can come by anytime during the week...or during the show to ask your questions or make a comment.  Thanks for being part of the Community.

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is proudly brought to you by:

Allied Insurance - For insurance answers for your small farm, acreage, business or vehicle see you local independent Allied Insurance Agent.  Allied Insurance - "Now with Country Choice, for the way you live."

Kubota and Capital City Equipment- Owing a small farm or acreage means you've got work to do.  Why not partner with a real "workhorse", a Kubota tractor and all the attachments you'll need.  Get 'em from Capital City Equipment in Ames and Des Moines.  Go Orange with Kubota!

Country Vet Pet Food – A complete line of pet food for your best friend.  You can find your dealer on-line or, here in Central Iowa, you can pick up Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners!"

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - Owning a horse has it's issues.  One of them is the equine digestive system.  Now, with Running Horse, that's less an issue than before.  Running Horse is formulated to help prevent digestive problems while creating a better horse..from inside out.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"  Hey, if you want to see the new Running Horse Video...just click here!

AquaFuzion of Iowa - Clean, great tasting water is what they do.  Stop wasting money on bottled water, replacement of appliances and using more and more soaps.  Rural or urban, AquaFuzion of Iowa and the General Electric Pro-Elite water system brings you water that is...perfect

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - We're a full service advertising agency that specializes in rural lifestyle and agriculture.  You make a product or service...let us help you make it great with a solid marketing plan.

Michael Libbie - Acreage Owner & Host

 

 

 

Agriculture Secretary Bill Northey & Julie Wilber - Sunday

Welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country, we're heard each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM or if you live outside of Central Iowa you can catch our radio show on the Internet at 983wowfm here is that link.

Coming up this Sunday we'll not only have the latest news and information about life and issues that impact living on small farms and acreages we have TWO guests.

We're honored to have the Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey in the first portion of the show.  We'll be talking about the H1N1 virus and the impact on commercial pork production in Iowa and elsewhere.  We'll expose the myths and share the reality.  Secretary Bill Northey is, seriously, one of the most personable folks in politics.  He gets the connection and we're grateful that he'll be with us!  Again our thanks to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

Following the agriculture secretary we're going to switch gears and visit with Julie Wilber of Wilber's Produce out of Boone Iowa.  Julie and her husband Scott own andoperate an organic veggie farm and sell their products with a CSA and...at the farmers markets. (By they way the Des Moines Farmers Marketopens this Saturday in Downtown Des Moines!)  We'll visit with Julie about the move from urban to rural the impact that has had on here life and we'll give you loads of garden tips...yum!  Feelin' great about this already!

We'll also give you an update on our missing African Gray Parrot, Kunta!  We've been looking since late last Sunday for our best friend who got out just before a major storm.  We have called, walked and spoken with hundreds of folks.  Maybe you've seen him?  Kunta loves noodles and will whistle the them to "The Adams Family"....we're not making this up.  If you are in Central Iowa and you happen to spot Kunta let us know?  It's been a very tough week.  We're not giving up...here is a brief story about how wonderful some people have been.

Two guests and loads of rural news and information on this nations only live full hour rural lifestyle radio show...Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.  Grab a cup of JOE and come on by - 8am Sunday.

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is proudly brought to you by:

Allied Insurance - For insurance answers for your small farm, acreage, business or vehicle see you local independent Allied Insurance Agent.  Allied Insurance - "Now with Country Choice, for the way you live."

Kubota and Capital City Equipment- Owing a small farm or acreage means you've got work to do.  Why not partner with a real "workhorse", a Kubota tractor and all the attachments you'll need.  Get 'em from Capital City Equipment in Ames and Des Moines.  Go Orange with Kubota!

Country Vet Pet Food – A complete line of pet food for your best friend.  You can find your dealer on-line or, here in Central Iowa, you can pick up Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners!"

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - Owning a horse has it's issues.  One of them is the equine digestive system.  Now, with Running Horse, that's less an issue than before.  Running Horse is formulated to help prevent digestive problems while creating a better horse..from inside out.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

AquaFuzion of Iowa - Clean, great tasting water is what they do.  Stop wasting money on bottled water, replacement of appliances and using more and more soaps.  Rural or urban, AquaFuzion of Iowa and the General Electric Pro-Elite water system brings you water that is...perfect

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - We're a full service advertising agency that specializes in rural lifestyle and agriculture.  You make a product or service...let us help you make it great with a solid marketing plan.

Michael Libbie - Acreage Owner & Host Follow us on Twitter: @RuralLifeRadio