Rural Lifestyle on Highwy 6

Rural Lifestyle Sunday June 29

Rural Lifestyle, let's talk about it on Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.  Welcome to the radio show that talks about living on a small farm or acreage and the things that impact that lifestyle.  We're on each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM.

Listen to this week's Show - HERE!

On the show today we talked about the new video released by the Humane Society of the United States.  While we're not big fans of this organization for lots of reasons they are starting to pile up a bunch of evidence that is damning to the meat production business.  We had the story and some personal observations.

So...is rural living getting out of the range for people who desire living in the country?  With fuel prices, and home heating prices continuing to go up interest in living the rural lifestyle is coming under fire. 

What one thing could we do to save over 32 billion dollars in fuel costs?  The answer is work from home.  We talked about a recent study and gave you some ideas as to why industry is reluctant to climb on board...and then there is that pesky problem about rural broadband!  Oh...and tech workers?  Many would take a pay cut to be able to work from home.

Headed to Church or Synagogue this morning?  If so...you might be surprised at a recent study released by the PEW Forum on Religion and Public Life.  Are we becoming more tolerant or less invested in our faith?

Rural economic development headed in a new direction?  That is one idea coming out of ISU.  We had this story from this mornings edition of the Des Moines Register.

We also talked about the cost farmers are seeing with high fuel prices and about dogs...rural folks tend to have more dogs than urban folks...but how we treat them can save their lives.   

All of this and so much more.

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Allied Independent Insurance Agent head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live!

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - When you buy a tractor for your small farm or acreage you want it to last and have an outstanding reputation.  You need a Kubota.  To learn more visit Capital City Equipment and ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Kubota and Capital City Equipment!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  You won't have to worry about where and what their pet food is made from.  To find your local dealer head to their website.  Here in Des Moines you can find Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners"!

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity level of your horse Running Horse has a feed that will match it.  It's a new type of horse feed that won't disappoint you, or your horse.  Find your dealer on the Running Horse Website.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about how to live the rural lifestyle more robustly.  Equipment, clothing, tips and a host of ideas.  Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  You want to connect your business or service with more customers.  Find out how...come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

We'll Talk Floods, Bugs and Issues This Sunday!

Welcome to the on-line edition of Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country a radio show heard each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM.  If you don't live in Central Iowa but want to listen...just follow this link.

This Sunday we'll be talking about the issues and events that impact living on acreages and small farms.  We'll also have as our guest Dr. Lyric Bartholomay from Iowa State University.  Dr. Bartholomay is the principal investigator for the Medical Entomology Laboratory.

We'll be talking about the recent flooding and what that means for humans, animals and insects.  And how they are all related.  And...as a staffer here brought up...we'll ask Dr. Bartholomay if she has a sister by the name of Melody.  We're a serious bunch here!

In addition we'll have news and stories about living the rural lifestyle as well as our Highway 6 Tip of the Week.

Come on by for a listen or a read...the topics are always posted the morning of the show and the show is available later on Sunday to download.

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Allied Independent Insurance Agent head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live!

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - When you buy a tractor for your small farm or acreage you want it to last and have an outstanding reputation.  You need a Kubota.  To learn more visit Capital City Equipment and ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Kubota and Capital City Equipment!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  You won't have to worry about where and what their pet food is made from.  To find your local dealer head to their website.  Here in Des Moines you can find Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners"!

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity level of your horse Running Horse has a feed that will match it.  It's a new type of horse feed that won't disappoint you, or your horse.  Find your dealer on the Running Horse Website.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about how to live the rural lifestyle more robustly.  Equipment, clothing, tips and a host of ideas.  Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  You want to connect your business or service with more customers.  Find out how...come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

Dee Davis, Rural Strategies and Rural Lifestyle

Welcome to the print version of our rural lifestyle radio show, Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.  Each Sunday morning at 8 we gather to talk about the issues that effect rural living.  We're not a "farm show".  We do talk about jobs, lifestyle, economics, livestock and a broad range of issues that effect folks living on acreages, small farms and smaller towns.

Our guest this week is Dee Davis, president of the Center for Rural Strategies.  Dee has long been a rural activist and leader on issues ranging from employment to politics.  He'll be joining us as he concludes a week of Washington, DC meetings.

The Center for Rural Strategies is located in Whitesburg, KY and when we made contact with vice president Tim Marema and told him about rural living in Iowa he was surprised.

"You know, we commonly think of 'farm states' differently when it comes to 'rural'.  It's not that they are not...it's just that we often don't think of small acreages and farms being among all the huge acreage farms.  It's a perception.  Count us in."

We'll discuss some of the projects being headed by The Center as well as bring you a "mess" of information about rural living.  All that, and our Highway 6 Tip of the Week" this Sunday morning on 98.3 WOW-FM.  Remember you can always listen live by clicking this link and using your PC.

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Allied Independent Insurance Agent head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live!

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - When you buy a tractor for your small farm or acreage you want it to last and have an outstanding reputation.  You need a Kubota.  To learn more visit Capital City Equipment and ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Kubota and Capital City Equipment!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  You won't have to worry about where and what their pet food is made from.  To find your local dealer head to their website.  Here in Des Moines you can find Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners"!

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity level of your horse Running Horse has a feed that will match it.  It's a new type of horse feed that won't disappoint you, or your horse.  Find your dealer on the Running Horse Website.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about how to live the rural lifestyle more robustly.  Equipment, clothing, tips and a host of ideas.  Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  You want to connect your business or service with more customers.  Find out how...come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

So, What's Rural?

Rural Lifestyle, let's talk about it!  Thanks for coming by our publication for the radio show, Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.  We're not a farm show but we do talk about agriculture.  We also talk about the issues and events that impact Rural America.

We're heard each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM here in Central Iowa.  If you're from outside the 50 mile listening area you can catch us using your PC.

This week I've been in several conversations with folks who are trying, but just don't seem to get "rural".  Here in Iowa Rural = Farm.  But not all folks that live a rural lifestyle...farm for a living. 

What is rural?  Who are we?  What is it that motivates us and where are we going?

We're not all farmers but farmers do make up members of the rural lifestyle.  Not all of us own horses, but millions of us do.  We're not all organic vegetable growers...but they too are in "the club".  Not all of us own a tractor or a pickup...but we're still rural.  We don't all agree on every aspect of politics, social action or even education.

So, what is it that ties us together?

Let's try this:  Independence & Interdependence.

We tend to lean toward self sufficiency.  If we can, we'll grow it.  If we can, we'll make it.  If we can't we admire those who do and wish we could.

We love dirt or at least we don't tend to fear the soil.  We enjoy watching growth even if it's a potted tomato plant on a deck.  We often think of animals as being our friends...as well as a meal.

We're quick to make human friends too.  We open doors for men and women.  Say "Yes sir" or "Yes ma'am", to folks we meet...often offending some folks.  We're always sorry about it...  We'll wave at strangers and talk about the weather, with interest.

We're doctors, coal miners, salespeople and soldiers.  We prize education and "graduate" from the 8th grade.  We tend to see wonder in most everything others take for granted...

Being "rural" is hard to define...but we know what we're not.  We are not Paris, "The Donald" or "Fifty".   Some of us know who they are...most of us know Reba.

We're brown, black, white and lots of shades in the middle.  Many of us know a plow from a planter...some of us don't have a clue but know what a hoe is...and is not.

Confused?  Hey...it's a rural lifestyle.  Come on by for a listen this Sunday at 8 we'll help you out.

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Allied Independent Insurance Agent head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live!

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - When you buy a tractor for your small farm or acreage you want it to last and have an outstanding reputation.  You need a Kubota.  To learn more visit Capital City Equipment and ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Kubota and Capital City Equipment!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  You won't have to worry about where and what their pet food is made from.  To find your local dealer head to their website.  Here in Des Moines you can find Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners"!

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity level of your horse Running Horse has a feed that will match it.  It's a new type of horse feed that won't disappoint you, or your horse.  Find your dealer on the Running Horse Website.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about how to live the rural lifestyle more robustly.  Equipment, clothing, tips and a host of ideas.  Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  You want to connect your business or service with more customers.  Find out how...come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

Rural Lifestyle Radio - Highway 6 - June 8

Rural Lifestyle, it's what we talk about on Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country this nations only full hour live radio show about living on small farms and acreages.

We're heard each Sunday at 8am on 98.3 WOW-FM here in Central Iowa.  Don't live here?  No problem!  Click this link to listen live!

So, what does running, biking, swimming and pie have in common?  Duh!  Penny's PieAthlon!  It's headed into Adel, Iowa later this month in an effort to raise money for cancer treatments and research.  The money raised goes to the LiveStrong Foundation, The John Stoddard Cancer Center and the Mercy Cancer Center.

Dave Milburn was our guest this morning talking about the success of last year, details of what's going on this year and...of course...PIE!  We hope our friends in rural Adel and all over Central Iowa take part in the event on the 28th of June.  Dave Milburn...if you want to listen to the show, just click here!

Ban Bull riding?  If some county Republicans in New York have their way...that's exactly what's going to happen.  The story is loaded with poor information and, of course, the Humane Society is rock solid behind the proposed ban.  We might expect this from the Democrats...but Republicans?  Here's the story from Newsday.

Higher gas prices are having an effect on the sales of rural homes.  As the cost to commute from town to city increases fewer people are willing to put five-dollar a gallon gas in their cars.  Yep, we know it's not there yet...but we've predicted five-dollar gas by Labor Day.  Meanwhile rural home sales hit a wall what will that mean to a rural economy already hurting?  Here's the story from our friends at The Daily Yonder.

Now it's getting personal!  Expect the cost of wine to increase.  Say it ain't so!  The driver of this latest pinch in your pocketbook isn't fuel prices...it's a lack of labor.  Wineries just can't find the workers.  Here is that story.

The Food vs. Fuel debate continues.  The government says there is no relationship between high food prices and record prices for grain.  However there is a growing number of non-rural folks banging the drum against biofuels and guess who just launched a major public relations campaign to pressure legislators to lose the love for biofuels.  The grocery store industry!  These are the folks that make the food you and I eat.  Here's the story.

Crude oil prices hit a new record on Friday trading at $139.40 a barrel.  And that has happened while gasoline consumption here in the United States has gone down.  So much for the supply and demand theory.  So, other than China...who is driving up the cost?  The answer is really simple.  It's not all supply and demand it's profit taking and speculation on the market.  Not the oil barons of Saudi Arabia but tie wearing folks in plush offices betting on oil to hit $250 a barrel.  (Which translates into $10 a gallon gas.)

Consider the fact that one year ago, June 2007, a barrel if crude oil cost $59.25.  It defies the imagination to suggest that within twelve months oil use in China and India tripled.  Somebody...maybe your 401K...is getting fat by driving up the price.  So, what do you think?

And our Highway 6 Tip of the Week - How to Fertilize Your Garden...on the Cheap!

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Allied Independent Insurance Agent head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live!

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - When you buy a tractor for your small farm or acreage you want it to last and have an outstanding reputation.  You need a Kubota.  To learn more visit Capital City Equipment and ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Kubota and Capital City Equipment!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  You won't have to worry about where and what their pet food is made from.  To find your local dealer head to their website.  Here in Des Moines you can find Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners"!

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity level of your horse Running Horse has a feed that will match it.  It's a new type of horse feed that won't disappoint you, or your horse.  Find your dealer on the Running Horse Website.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about how to live the rural lifestyle more robustly.  Equipment, clothing, tips and a host of ideas.  Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  You want to connect your business or service with more customers.  Find out how...come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

Rural Lifestyle Radio - Sunday, June 1, 2008

Rural Lifestyle, we talk about it.  Welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country where we discuss all things rural.  If you live on a small farm or an acreage you've got unique issues to deal with.  If you live in a small town...or even a large one and want to learn more about living rural and the things that impact this lifestyle...you've come to the right place.

We're on each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM.  And, if you're not living in Central Iowa you can still listen in using your PC.  Just follow this link.

OR...if you want to listen again to the show from this morning...here is that link!

A couple of weeks ago we had a story about how you can become more self sufficient by turning a spade and creating a Victory Garden.  It looks like we were right on.  The Associated Press and MSNBC reported last week that sales of seeds and plantings for fruits and vegetables has hit record numbers.  And, it's happening all over the country.  People in urban areas are putting gardens on fire escapes and ripping out their lawns.  Folks in the country have expanded their gardens to record size.  All in an attempt to battle the current food issues.  It's a great story and here it is.

Schools in rural areas are taking a hit.  Nebraska just passed legislation taking funds from rural areas and giving them to urban centers.  Meanwhile there is a lawsuit here in Iowa alleging that state officials have allowed a sub-standard education program.  We had both stories.

The Tale of Two Milks.  One group says raw milk is good for you while the other says stay away!  Who do you believe?  We centered on personal experience but use your own judgement. 

In another food development we had a story about the problem with Food Stamps.  It seems the government has not recalculated the system since 1996 and that is causing problems as food prices increase.

So, what are they paying for gas in China?  A bunch less than you or I and we're fueling their economy at record numbers.  Isn't it time to stop?  If you would like a peek at what folks are paying in Iran, China and our other "friends" take a look.

Rural Lifestyle in Northern Michigan.  What a hoot!  Here in the Midwest we think we are remote.  Nothing compaired to Indian River, Michigan.  A bike trip of 30 miles had nobody in site.  But more than that was the issue of the Internet there.  Our story centered on the need for Broadband to be something of a national issue.  Study after study tells us that high speed Internet is a must as rural areas seek better economic development opportunities.  Here is another story from Science Daily saying what we've said for nearly two years.

Finally our Food Sunday took a look at profits of food related companies.  Just hope your portfolio has some of these giants in it.

All of that and more from Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Allied Independent Insurance Agent head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live!

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - When you buy a tractor for your small farm or acreage you want it to last and have an outstanding reputation.  You need a Kubota.  To learn more visit Capital City Equipment and ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Kubota and Capital City Equipment!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  You won't have to worry about where and what their pet food is made from.  To find your local dealer head to their website.  Here in Des Moines you can find Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners"!

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity level of your horse Running Horse has a feed that will match it.  It's a new type of horse feed that won't disappoint you, or your horse.  Find your dealer on the Running Horse Website.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about how to live the rural lifestyle more robustly.  Equipment, clothing, tips and a host of ideas.  Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  You want to connect your business or service with more customers.  Find out how...come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

This Sunday - Rural Lifestyle Radio

Rural Lifestyle?  Let's talk about it on this nation's only full hour, live radio show dealing with living on small farms and acreages.  We're heard each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM.  Hope you come along for a visit.  And, if you want...you can listen in using your PC.  Just follow this link.

We've been "on the road" for the past week visiting family in Michigan.  No, not Detroit...but Northern Michigan where it is VERY rural.  Unlike here in Iowa where one can "see" a farm home we traveled for miles on bicycle trails that were like tunnels through the trees.  Nothing but trees and wildlife for miles and miles.

And, we paid plenty for gas.  It wasn't uncommon to see pumps at $4.29 to $4.39 in many parts of the state.

That got us to wondering, "Maybe $4.00 - $5.00 gas is good for our re-development?"

Join us on Sunday...we'll talk about it and invite you to call.

We'll also cover a host of topics...like China.

China, it seems, is tied to many of the issues we face in Rural America.  Think of it, China is developing so fast and using so many products for so many people the price of everything is skyrocketing.  Or that is what we're told.  Fertilizer, metal, fuel, concrete...all being swallowed up in a country that is experiencing a boom like the US had in the 1950's.  Just multiply the number of people by...oh 200 million!

It effects the way you and I live...and we'll talk about it.

Iowa and Rural Education...while Nebraska shifts funds away from rural schools a lawsuit here in Iowa demands funding and education changes.

All of that and our Highway 6 - Tip of the Week.  Sunday morning at 8!

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Allied Independent Insurance Agent head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live!

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - When you buy a tractor for your small farm or acreage you want it to last and have an outstanding reputation.  You need a Kubota.  To learn more visit Capital City Equipment and ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Kubota and Capital City Equipment!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  You won't have to worry about where and what their pet food is made from.  To find your local dealer head to their website.  Here in Des Moines you can find Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners"!

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity level of your horse Running Horse has a feed that will match it.  It's a new type of horse feed that won't disappoint you, or your horse.  Find your dealer on the Running Horse Website.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about how to live the rural lifestyle more robustly.  Equipment, clothing, tips and a host of ideas.  Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  You want to connect your business or service with more customers.  Find out how...come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

Rural Lifestyle Radio - Craig Dick This Sunday!

Rural Lifestyle, let's talk about it!  Welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country this nations only full hour live (except this week) radio show that talks about living on small farms and acreages.  We're heard each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM here in Des Moines or you can catch us using your PC from anywhere on the planet by following this link.

This wee were going to visit with Craig Dick from Calcium Products, Inc.  This company has been a client of ours for several years and we're proud to bring him in to talk about soil fertility and what you can do to improve your pasture, hay business and even you garden and lawn! 

Just by using nearly pure limestone and/or calcium.  Our thanks to Craig for giving us some time to talk about some pretty amazing things that is proven soil science.  Like they say, "Everything Starts With The Soil!"

We'll also have some news and information for you that centers on living the rural lifestyle.  Home you'll come by for a listen!

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Allied Independent Insurance Agent head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live!

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - When you buy a tractor for your small farm or acreage you want it to last and have an outstanding reputation.  You need a Kubota.  To learn more visit Capital City Equipment and ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Kubota and Capital City Equipment!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  You won't have to worry about where and what their pet food is made from.  To find your local dealer head to their website.  Here in Des Moines you can find Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners"!

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity level of your horse Running Horse has a feed that will match it.  It's a new type of horse feed that won't disappoint you, or your horse.  Find your dealer on the Running Horse Website.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about how to live the rural lifestyle more robustly.  Equipment, clothing, tips and a host of ideas.  Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  You want to connect your business or service with more customers.  Find out how...come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

May 18, 2008 - Mary Lou Garcia and More!

Rural Lifestyle...we talk about it.  Welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road the the Country this nations only full hour, live talk show dedicated to living on small farms and acreages.

We talk about homes, gardens, livestock, sustainable agriculture micro-farms and ways you can actually make some extra money with a little land and a little more work.

We're heard, here in Central Iowa, on 98.3 WOW-FM or if you want to use your PC.  Just click this link and listen in.

Our in studio guest this morning was Mary Lou Garcia.  Mary Lou is the Executive Director of Wildwood Hills Ranch located about 30 miles south of Des Moines.  The 400 acre ranch is the brainchild of Iowa businessman Mike Whalen and is a facility that works with area underprivileged and at risk youth. A great discussion and we're grateful Mary Lou made the trip to come in and visit with us.

Iowa State Economist Dave Swenson recently spelled out the trouble we're having in keeping young, talented and well educated people in rural areas.  75% of the counties in Iowa, Minnesota, the Dakotas, Nebraska and Illinois have seen their populations shrink.  And it's the young folks who are leaving.  We had the story.

Given the soaring cost of food it might be time to plant a "Victory Garden".  We gave you the history of what they were, how they were promoted and how we might take that same idea to insure fresh food around your table for a fraction of what it costs in the grocery stores!  And, be doing your effort for the "war effort".  Revive the Victory Garden, it's a start!

Do plants have "rights"?  You just knew it was coming.  And we talked about it.

So what about the recent raid on AgriProcessors in Postville.  What is the impact?  We're only now starting to see the other side of the story.

Our Highway 6 - Tip of the Week was about planting a garden to attract butterflies.  For more information here is the link!

Once again, our thanks to Mary Lou Garcia for her time in the studio.  We learned somethings we didn't know and gave you another way in which you might be of some help.

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Allied Independent Insurance Agent head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live!

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - When you buy a tractor for your small farm or acreage you want it to last and have an outstanding reputation.  You need a Kubota.  To learn more visit Capital City Equipment and ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Kubota and Capital City Equipment!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  You won't have to worry about where and what their pet food is made from.  To find your local dealer head to their website.  Here in Des Moines you can find Country Vet at Shoppers Supply.  Country Vet Pet Food - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners"!

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity level of your horse Running Horse has a feed that will match it.  It's a new type of horse feed that won't disappoint you, or your horse.  Find your dealer on the Running Horse Website.  "Running Horse - For the Long Run!"

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about how to live the rural lifestyle more robustly.  Equipment, clothing, tips and a host of ideas.  Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  You want to connect your business or service with more customers.  Find out how...come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

Mary Lou Garcia Sunday Morning!

Rural Lifestyle, let's talk about it.  Welcome to our publication and our radio show dedicated to living the rural lifestyle.  Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is this nation's only full hour live talk show that matches the way you live...or hope to.

We're not a farm show but we do talk about agriculture.  We discuss acreage and small farm living.  Cattle, horses, dairy, gardens and a host of sustainable agriculture issues.  We also talk about the issues and the events that impact living "out here".

You can hear us each Sunday morning on 98.3 WOW-FM or by logging on and using your computer from anywhere on the planet. 

This week we welcome Mary Lou Garcia to the show.  Mary Lou is from Wildwood Hills Ranch just south of Des Moines.  The 400 acre facility is home to a program serving hundreds of "at risk" and "disadvantaged" children from all across Iowa.    Mary Lou will be in studio to discuss the program, the "opportunities" making a 400 acre ranch...work and ways in which you might be of some assistance.

We welcome Mary Lou Garcia to the show this Sunday morning at 8!  We think the lessons she'll share with us will be valuable.  Besides...it's a ranch with all kinds of activities!  How cool is that?

In addition to Mary Lou we'll be talking about the stories that made news this past week.  How the turn to a different kind of ethanol might impact Rural America and for sure, Iowa.

We'll also have our "Tip Of The Week"...and the bets are it'll be on gardening!

We'll also examine the disconnect between urban and rural living.  Just why is it that folks in the city just don't seem to "get it".  Here's a hint...it's not that they don't want to...it's just often beyond the power to understand traveling 10 miles for groceries and having a vet on "speed dial".  It's just a couple of things new folks to the rural lifestyle have to figure out...real quick.

Come on by for a listen...Sunday morning at 8!

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Independent Allied Insurance Agent just head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live.

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - Don't just get a tractor for your small farm or acreage...get a Kubota!  You'll find the help you need to make a smart tractor choice at Capital City Equipment and make sure you ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Need directions?  Here is the Capital City Website!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  There's no guessing about the quality of Country Vet Pet Foods.  To find your local dealer head to their website or if you're here in Des Moines you can buy Country Vet at Shoppers Supply just north of the city.  Country Vet Pet Foods - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners".

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity of your horse they, and you, will love Running Horse.  It's a new type of feed that truly is one of the best things you can do for your horse or horses.  For dealers and all the information just head to the Running Horse Website.  Running Horse - "For the Long Run".

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about living the rural lifestyle.  Want to know more about equipment, critters, home ideas?  It's all in Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  Let us help you take your product or service to the next level.  Come on by for a visit.

Got A Great Mushroom Recipe?

Rural Lifestyle, we talk about it each Sunday morning on 98.3 WOW-FM.  We're not a farm show but we do talk about agriculture on small farms and acreages.  We talk about horses, livestock, sustainable farming and offer tips and information on living the country lifestyle.

Our thanks to Lewis Major for coming on the show this past Sunday to talk about morel mushrooms..yummmmm.  According to Lewis we've got a couple more weeks of mushroom season left.  The problem has been the weather...we've been absent the warm weather so it might be a light season.

Speaking of Morel Mushrooms...we were contacted this past week by Emily Adamson of Marx Foods.  She asked that we pass this on to our readers and listeners:

Seems Marx Foods wants your mushroom recipes!  So much so they are willing to part with two pounds of fresh morel mushrooms for the winner.  If you would like to send them yours just follow this link and send it on.  Good luck to you and Emily...you too!

Thanks for reading and for listening!

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Independent Allied Insurance Agent just head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live.

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - Don't just get a tractor for your small farm or acreage...get a Kubota!  You'll find the help you need to make a smart tractor choice at Capital City Equipment and make sure you ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Need directions?  Here is the Capital City Website!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  There's no guessing about the quality of Country Vet Pet Foods.  To find your local dealer head to their website or if you're here in Des Moines you can buy Country Vet at Shoppers Supply just north of the city.  Country Vet Pet Foods - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners".

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity of your horse they, and you, will love Running Horse.  It's a new type of feed that truly is one of the best things you can do for your horse or horses.  For dealers and all the information just head to the Running Horse Website.  Running Horse - "For the Long Run".

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about living the rural lifestyle.  Want to know more about equipment, critters, home ideas?  It's all in Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  Let us help you take your product or service to the next level.  Come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

Lewis Major and Mushrooms - Rural Lifestyle Radio

Rural Lifestyle, let's talk about it!  Welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.  We're heard each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM.  If you're not in Central Iowa you can still listen by clicking this link and use your PC. 

We talk about small farms, acreages and living the rural lifestyle.  We're not a farm show...but we do talk about agriculture, horses, cattle, dogs, gardens and a host of topics that impact your life in the country.  Glad you stopped by.

Grab a cup of coffee and let's get started.

Our guest this morning was Lewis Major from the Polk County Conservation Board.  Lewis is a naturalist who is involved in a host of projects here in Central Iowa.  But one that he knows well is Morel Mushrooms!  We talked about how to find them, why they are such a big deal to so many and tried to get him to tell us exactly where they are.  Lewis Major...this morning on Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country!

We also had a story about baby carrots...or what is marketed as "baby carrots.  Some are...some are not. 

We've talked about this several times.  Last week I wrote an article about the upside down nature of agriculture and the general public.  Now, things are getting ugly.  There is a backlash in the nation and farmers need to become more involved in taking control of their public relations.  Our friend from Hoosier Ag Today, Gary Truitt has a variation of the story we did this past week.

Here's one for you.  According to a study by the Carsey Institute rural soldiers account for a disproportionately high number of casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Interesting reading.

When are farmers going to "get it"?  With fuel prices going up, fertilizer prices doubling what is the answer for agriculture?  More of the same.  It doesn't make sense...but it's the way some folks react.  However some farmers are seeing profit in different crops that don't take as many chemicals.  Here's one story.

The Des Moines Farmers Market was a HUGE success yesterday!  Thousands came to buy farm to market foods and goodies.  Our friend, Michael Leo who has the Salzburg Bakery told me last night he broke all records with his sales.  Oh...and the dogs behaved!

All of that and Morel Mushrooms this morning as we talk about the Rural Lifestyle on 98.3 WOW-FM.

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

Allied Insurance - For over 75 years Allied Insurance has been taking care of folks just like you.  For your local Independent Allied Insurance Agent just head to the Allied Insurance Website.  Allied Insurance now with CountryChoice for the way you live.

Kubota and Capital City Equipment - Don't just get a tractor for your small farm or acreage...get a Kubota!  You'll find the help you need to make a smart tractor choice at Capital City Equipment and make sure you ask about the Kubota Orange Sales Event.  Need directions?  Here is the Capital City Website!

Country Vet Pet Food - A dog food company based right here in the Midwest.  There's no guessing about the quality of Country Vet Pet Foods.  To find your local dealer head to their website or if you're here in Des Moines you can buy Country Vet at Shoppers Supply just north of the city.  Country Vet Pet Foods - "Loved by Pets, Trusted by Owners".

Running Horse Elite Equine Feeds - No matter the activity of your horse they, and you, will love Running Horse.  It's a new type of feed that truly is one of the best things you can do for your horse or horses.  For dealers and all the information just head to the Running Horse Website.  Running Horse - "For the Long Run".

Acreage - The Magazine of Rural Living.  Each month Acreage brings you information about living the rural lifestyle.  Want to know more about equipment, critters, home ideas?  It's all in Acreage - Country Living at its Finest.

Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications - A full service advertising agency that understands agriculture and the rural lifestyle.  Let us help you take your product or service to the next level.  Come on by for a visit.

Michael P. Libbie - Acreage Owner and Host

Michael Hutchison - Iowa Parrot Rescue

Rural Lifestyle, let's talk about it. Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country is the nation's only live full hour talk show about living the rural lifestyle.  Sure, we talk about agriculture but we're no "Farm Show".  This is about living on an acreage or small farm, raising things from produce to horses.  Using your plot of land to increase your income or take on an interesting hobby. 

We're on each week on 98.3 WOW-FM, Sunday mornings at 8 or your can always listen live by heading to their site and logging on.

This Sunday we're going to visit with Michael Hutchison.  Michael and his wife Ab