Rural Lifestyle on Highway 6

The Road...

Last week I traveled back from the Farm Equipment Manufacturers Association meeting held in Atlanta.  I had a five hour lay-over so I filled the time with a book.  Before I boarded the plane...I had finished the book.

That's not what usually happens...

"The Road" by Cormac McCarthy ("No Country for Old Men") is a fascinating book that looks at the journey of a father and son following the distruction of the world...or at least most of it.  Light on details as to why the earth is a charred reminant of itself, "The Road"  took me on this fearful rural journey as "the man" and "the boy" attempt to head "south to the coast". 

One of the amazing things about "The Road" were the visuals regarding rural life.  There were word images of farms, fields, cattle and homes.  All lifeless now but it's clear that what was rural survived and helped these travelers survive on their journey.

"The Road" will soon be released as a movie starting Viggo Mortensen, Robert Duvall, Guy Pearce and Charlize Theron will be in theaters November 25.  But...do yourself a favor BEFORE seeing the film.  Get the book...it is powerful and a different read.

Thanks for coming by for a visit - 

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner... 

Banking on Social Media for Rural Development?

Early this week I traveled to Creston, Iowa (pop. 7,500) my host was Iowa State Savings Bank.  I was there to share with them ideas to use social media for their bank. We spent the morning together as they learned about the opportunities in blogging, Twitter and other forms of social media.

Like many small rural towns Creston has been hit by the recent economic downturn. I centered on that issue during my visit and gave them some ideas of how to use social media to market the bank. OK, I know, you're going to say, "What about financial liability issues and compliance?  Financial institutions and insurance people and financial planners can't possibly use social media because they have to send everything through some compliance officer!"

Nope.

I talked about that very issue on our daily business radio show, Insight on Business.  In addition I gave several suggestions right at the top of the show as to how financial people should use social media to build the relationship.  Have a watch...and a listen?  Let me know what you think...and how social media can be very helpful in rural development issues.

 

 

Rural Lifestyle? Bruce Tretter & More! - June 14, 2009

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is this nations only live, full hour radio talk show about living the rural lifestyle.  And, it's (The Week Before!  I have a story about that..oh my!) Father's Day!  We've got a cooking treat with Bruce Tretter in the second hour of the show.

If you missed the live show, here is the PODCAST...it was a strange day.

So, what else? We focus on rural economic development, horses, cattle, sustainable agriculture, and a host of things important for people living on small farms or acreages.  We're heard each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM...if you live in Central Iowa.  IF NOT...no problem. 

Later on Sunday morning we'll post the podcast right here.

So, no excuses Texas!

Yikes, what happened to the warm weather?  We're cold and rainy here in Central Iowa.  The folks at the weather service say we "might" get to 80 by mid-week.  How weird...

On the show this week we're following these stories:

• Milk Prices - Low for you...lower still for the dairy farmer.  What's Up?
• Vacation Day for Dairy? If you didn't see it...you must.  Here's the link.
• Homeless in Rural America?  You will be shocked.
• Available Money? - But if only your Rural Town can write a grant.
• Rural Business - The critical key for sustained rural life.
• North Dakota - Yes...there is a state with a budget surplus.  Yikes!
• Link Us Up - Rural America needs broadband today to build tomorrow.
• Non-Farmers - Do you really, really want them making law?

That's just a sample of our story lineup for Sunday!  And, we're hoping for a guest to drift in.  We've been in contact with the leadership for Penny's Pieathlon - a swim, bike, walk, run pie eating big time that raises money for cancer research.  It's an annual event that takes place in rural Adel, Iowa and it's happening on June 20th.  We'll talk about it and, if you live in Central Iowa, how you can get involved.  We're talkin' PIE Sunday morning on Highway 6.  www.Pieathlon.com Can you imagine..pie AND..well, pie! 

But wait!  There is more.  Today is (the weekend before)  Father's Day!   And our Speical Guest is Bruce Tretter - His site is called, "Gotta Eat! but, Can't Cook".   It's an issue..OK?   Not every male has it together in the kitchen.  However, the fastest way to a woman's heart?  Yep, you guessed it.  And, by the way...not every woman LOVES "grilled stuff".  I know that is hard to believe.  Hey, that is why we're here!

Come on by, Sunday morning for a visit with Bruce Tretter.  Here's the link to his site, Gotta Eat, Can't Cook!  It's something every "Dad" or "want to be "Dad" needs to know about cooking.  Hey, there are benefits!  OK, this is a family show! 

You have got to be kidding...men need to learn HOW to cook?

Ahhhh.. Yep!  Join Highway 6 and Bruce Tretter Sunday morning and let's learn together what we need to know. This should be real fun!  Ya know, I like this guy already!!!

You can keep up with us during the show and all week long on Twitter.  All you have to do is come on by and follow @RuralLifeRadio.  We monitor the site each day.  Got something to add to the rural lifestyle conversation?  Come on by!

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!  www.CapitalCityEquipmentCompany.com

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!"  www.CountryVetPetFood.com

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!"  www.RunningHorseFeeds.com

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. www.InsightCubed.com

Michael Libbie - Acreage Owner & Host

 

 

Artisan Beef with The Oliver Ranch - Highway 6 Radio

Hi and welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country this nations only live talk show that has a focus on the rural lifestyle.  We talk about living on small farms, acreages, organics, food production, Community Supported Agriculture and rural economic development.  It it's rural...we're there.

Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is heard live each Sunday morning at 8 Central Time on your radio or on the internet.  Our land based studio is near Des Moines, Iowa at 98.3 WOW-FM (www.983wowfm.com).  But, you can listen from anywhere on the planet by using your computer.  

IF you missed the LIVE show...no fear:  CLICK HERE for the PODCAST!  

Along with following some great rural news stories we had a most interesting guest talking about about "artisan beef".  HUH?  That's what we thought before we met Carrie Oliver of The Oliver Ranch Company based in Santa Rosa, California.   Here is the "set up" and it makes sense to us:  For longer than anybody can remember people have enjoyed specific wines because of the different flavors they bring to the palate.  But...what about other foods? 

What about...beef?

Might one breed taste different than another?  Might the growing region, diet and aging techniques alter the taste and then the enjoyment of...beef? 

We'll admit, this all sounded a bit strange at first but makes sense the longer we thought about it.  Well, that is The Oliver Ranch and Carrie Oliver.  She works with cattle producers across the country helping them, and consumers, learn more about the subtle, and not so subtle differences of beef.

We are all in for an education.  Oh, and one more thing, if you are stuck on what to get Dad for Father's Day...check out the beef tasting kit from The Oliver Ranch.  What a great time!  Rural Life Radio  with Carrie Oliver of The Oliver Ranch and the Artisan Beef Institute. 

And, yes, we'll also have several other stories we're following such as:

• Massachusetts & Animals - Are they going the way of California?
• United Organizations of the Horse - Headed to DC to "plan".
• HSUS - Why did a televised report from Atlanta...disappear?
• Farmers & Ranchers - How do Americans view them?
• Ed & Lynn Fallon - What a party...for a cause?

This and much more, Sunday morning at 8 Central on Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country. Come on by?  You can follow us all week on Twitter @RuralLifeRadio. 

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!"

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

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

 

 

 

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 Was Sooooo Good We'll Do It Again!

We're on the road this week so we've decided to bring you a encore performance of Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.  This is from last month....with Jim Clewell.  To Listen Live using your computer:  Just Click this Link!

Welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country this nations only full hour, live talk show dedicated to the rural lifestyle.  If you're living in a small town, on an acreage or small farm...this is the place to be each Sunday morning at 8 Central Time.  We broadcast live on the Internet and here in Central Iowa on 98.3 WOW-FM (983wowfm).  What that means is you can listen live using your computer...even if you don't live in the eight counties surrounding Des Moines.  Pretty cool huh?    You can also follow us on Twitter @RuralLifeRadio where you can follow us through the week.

If you missed the show you can listen to this PODCAST whenever you want. 

Before we get started, our collective thoughts and prayers go out to our friends in North Dakota where they are experiencing major flooding along the Red River. (Photo Credit - Huffington Post) We, here in Iowa, remember the support of thousands of folks from around the country during last years 100 Year Flood.  Much of what you've read has been about Fargo, a major population center.  However there is plenty of suffering going on all along the river in very rural parts of the state.  If you are moved to offer a donation to the Red Cross here is that link.

On the show this morning, along with our special guest, Jim Clewell who was here to talk compact tractors, attachments, spring service and what is new in the Kubota line of products we've got some interesting stories that you may not hear anyplace else...

Is PETA running a Dog Slaughter House in Norfolk, VA?  That's what we read this past week on a blog site for the American Working Terrier Association.  They contend that the PETA shelter took in 2,116 animals during 2008 and found homes for only seven (7).  That, according to the story, is a "...96% kill rate".  PETA may want us to stop eating animals...but killing dogs is OK?  We're confused... Read it for yourself, here is the link.

In other "animal rights" news it looks like, from a story in Beef Magazine, that the United States Humane Society has been active in getting country music star and supporter of HSUS, Carrie Underwood voted in as the Academy of Country Music"Entertainer of the Year".  Underwood is an advocate for HSUS and Beef Magazine received, what they call a "secret" e-mail from Kathy Bauch the HSUS Senior Director for Corporate Relations and Promotions.  The e-mail tells supporters of HSUS to vote for Underwood but don't let folks know  that, "...HSUS is urging people to vote for her, or it could just breathe life into the opposition".  It seems the "opposition" might just be rural folks who love country music, their beef and hunting.  Here is the story...again.

In our segment:  "Fast Takes on Rural News" - "The fastest 120 seconds of rural news in the nation." We're following these stories:

- Rural Unemployment continues to expand faster than Urban Unemployment;

- A Nebraska Researcher believes rural "self employment" is on the rise;

- Sugar is back as the nation backs away from high-fructose corn syrup;

- What's this?  Rural Stocks holding their own?  Here is the story;

- Could the "Equine Protection Bill" actually cause more horse suffering?;

- Montana legislature passes a "Horse Slaughter Bill";

There you have it 120 seconds of the fastest Rural News in the Nation.

We'll have an update on the Obama - White House and how taking the lead on "growing your own" might continue to push urban folks toward gardening and away from pouring billions of dollars into chemical lawn care.

Wow...all of that plus free stuff and our Special Guest, Jim Clewell (right). Jim is in studio to talk about Kubota and in particular the compact tractor market.  Who is buying them, why buying new makes sense, what kind of features make a compact tractor a smart buy, what attachments are necessary on a small farm or acreage.  And we'll talk about spring maintenance work, what every tractor owner should be doing...right now.  Jim Clewell from Kubota and Capital City Equipment, our special guest this week on Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.

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.

NatraTurf - Tired of spreading more and more chemicals on your lawn?  Now you don't have to because NatraTurf is a simple, effective and safe way to save water, build turf and use less chemicals.  And, listeners to Highway 6 have a chance to win a free bag of SpotGone the natural way to rid your yard of pet urine, salt damage and winter kill spots.  Keep the Dog...Lose the Spots with SpotGone from NatraTurf - Isn't it time?

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