Rural Lifestyle on Highway 6

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

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

 

Rural Road Rage and Rural Lifestyle News on Highway 6

Hi and welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country this nation's only full hour live talk show dedicated to folks living on small farms and acreages or in the towns that dot our landscape.  We're heard each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM (983wowfm) or if you use your computer to listen you can hear us all over the globe.

Here is the entire show from this past Sunday morning.  (We're going to post just the Ken Sherman interview later in the day.)

Our featured guest Sunday morning is Ken Sherman of Des Moines.  We're going to discuss what is becoming a major social and political reality that is heating up Rural Iowa.  Ken is an avid cyclist and one of several leaders pushing for legislation to make our roads more safe.  The Cycle Safety Bill (SF117) was passed by the Iowa State Senate but it looks as it it's dead in the House.  We'll explore the reasons the Iowa Legislature missed a chance to promote safety on our city and rural roads.  We'll talk about the reality of being in a car/truck/cycle accident and the rural / urban divide that is rearing it's head on this issue.  Are rural people being unfairly judged?

Rural counties have lined up against the bill, the Iowa / Nebraska Equipment Dealers have lined up against the bill...what's going on?  We'll talk about it.

In the photo (l to r) is Brian Duffy, Ken Sherman & Kim West at a recent rally for safety where over 500 cyclists rode to the Iowa State Capital to protest the lack of action on the part of many legislators.

If you use TWITTER you may think it's the creation of an "Uber-Urban" type.  It might surprise you to learn that founder Evan Williams credits growing up on a Nebraska farm as the foundation to pursure Internet start up companies.  Williams is from the rural town of Clarks, Nebraska.  It's a great story.  And if you want to follow us on Twitter it's @RuralLifeRadio and we monitor it through the week, not just during the show.

Let's take a look at Fast Tracks or 120 seconds of quick rural news:

Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle bans phosphorus in lawn fertilizer - big story.

This past Easter 12 million eggs were given to local food banks by Feeding America.

Milk Wars - Brings to mind the very old "Gas Wars" and they are starting to impact buyers.

If you own a cat prepare to defend owing it from our Vegan friends...cats are bad you see.

If you are a honey bee keeper you know about the mystery of "colony colapse" where, for no good reason, entire bee hives simply die outt or move away.  Now, from our friends at Science Daily, there is word a possible cure is being considered.  They say it is brought on by an infection that has responded well to treatment.  Here is the story.

You would think apples would be a great food for school kids...but there is a tiff between former Governor Tom Vilsack and New York senators.  You see, because apples need to be "sliced" the USDA considers them "processed" and not a fresh fruit or veggie.  Say it ain't so.  Here is the story from the Huffington Post.

This and loads of rural news and information.  Sunday Morning at 8 only on 98.3 WOW-FM or by using your computer to listen in.  And, you can also follow us on Twitter @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

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

So, What's Really Wrong?

Welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country.  It's this nations only full hour live radio talk show about living on small farms, acreages or in the rural town of Rural America.  While we're heard each week on 98.3 WOW-FM (983wowfm) here in Central Iowa we're also l listened to from coast to coast on our live stream and folks can listen to our PODCAST anytime.  You can also keep up with us by reading this blog or follow us on Twitter @RuralLifeRadio all week long.

If you read much last week you know I was hanging out with folks that manufacture farm equipment.  That experience made it possible for this one:

Yesterday, while on the flight from Phoenix to Des Moines, I met a new friend.  Jeffrey Zonis is the principal of a consulting and training company out of Scottsdale.  He's also smart and well read.  That means he is very interesting.  The 2.5 hour flight was over in the blink of an eye.

It was the first flight I was sorry to see end.

While talking about the fifth or sixth topic in the first hour of the flight he lays this one on me:

"There was an amazing article this week in the New York Times that got very little press, and I was a little surprised."  He had my interest...

"China has made the decision (which means they ARE going to do it) to leap-frog flex-fuel automobile technology and begin mass production of electric cars, that actually work, and then sell them for around $25,000 on the world market."

My reaction:  No amount of bail-out money will save the United States Auto Industry...it's over.

And that, my friends, is what is really wrong.

While "talking heads" on the Right and the Left keep us busy pointing fingers at each other with blame and guilt, China has said, "Screw you...we're going to lead while you guys search for the boogie man."

You would think, with all the really smart people in this country, somebody would have said, "OK, here is the plan:  We're going into this GM Boardroom and fashion a strategy to not only return the company to solvency but to once again lead the world in auto production.  We ain't leaving this room until we get that job done."

That is what we would have done forty, fifty or sixty years ago...  We would have picked an issue, zeroed in on it, put our brightest thinkers and action people in a room and solved the problem.

Now we just throw money at it...

And...that's what is really wrong

 

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 - Thanks for listening and for reading.

 

Highway 6 Rural Life - Phoenix, AZ

Hi and welcome to Highway 6 - Your Road to the Country this nations only full hour live talk show dedicated to rural living.  We talk about the news, events and the people that impact living on small farms or in our rural towns.  We're on each Sunday morning at 8 on 98.3 WOW-FM (983wowfm) or you can catch us using your computer.  All you have to do is follow this link...and we'll be there.  You can also, during the broadcast and after, follow us on Twitter just follow this link: @RuralLifeRadio and sign up.

This week we're coming to you from the Hilton Tapatio Cliffs near Phoenix.  We've been here since this past Tuesday meeting with what is known as "shortline" manufacturers who are members of FEMA (Farm Equipment Manufacturing Association). These folks make grain waggons, combines, tillage equipment, manure spreaders, GPS, hay equipment, rotary cutters...the list gets pretty long.  And, so we'll spend some time talking about the farm equipment outlook and our impressions.  What's so critical for people to understand about this industry is the fact that in many rural states this IS the manufacturing base.  So, the farm economy touches not only farmers...but also folks who work in many of these family owned manufacturing companies and live in town on on small farms and acreages near their place of employment. 

Due to the fact that we're remote today we will post the podcast but not until Monday...gotta get home first.

So, what are we talking about...

The economy.  Now, don't nod off on us...this week I heard economist William Conerly Ph.D. who spoke to the FEMA group about the current recession.  He had plenty to share and we'll share the high points with you.

There is a new Broadband program coming from Verizion that may solve the rural holes in service.  Will it be fast enough?  Yes.  Will it be affordable?  Yes.  Will it be here tomorrow?  No.  We'll tell you about it.

Rural Job loses.  It's getting bad out here and, if you paid attention to the story from Bill Conerly the ag sector isn't done contracting.  We'll give you a perspective on rural vs. urban job loses.

We've got a story about the Dairy Industry and how an Ohio Farmer is attempting to hold back the feds and continue his low pasturized milk business.  It's David vs. the Lobby.

And, we'll have a wrap on some news you won't hear anywhere else Fast Takes on Rural News.  Here's what we're convering in the fastest 120 seconds of news...anywhere.

- It's coming back!  Another hatchet job about American Agriculture is headed to movie houses in your world.  "Food Inc." and it ain't pretty.

- It looks like corn and soybean prices are headed for a fall.  So?  That should be good for the grocery prices?  Don't bet on it.

- Is there any good news?  Sure!  Some small communities met this past week to celebrate new and exciting things going on in their towns.  We've got the brief.

- If you live in Illinois and you've enjoyed some free, or cheap services from your Department of Agriculture...wave goodbye.  Things are changing.

In addition we'll have several additiional stories picked up here including one about why we think rural lifestyle folks are not buying what farm equipment manufacturers are making.  Business is down among folks building rotary cutters, waggons and manure spreaders for acreage and small farms.  Why?  We think we have part of the answer.

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