Cultivate Summer 2021 by Virginia Farm Bureau

Cultivate SUMMER 2021

Virginia Farm Bureau

GOLDEN FUNGI Opportunities expand for Va. mushroom growers

Cultivate Volume 14, Number 3 Summer 2021 Cultivate (USPS 025051) (ISSN 19468121) is published four times a year. February, May, August, October. It is published by Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, 12580 West Creek Parkway, Richmond, VA 23238. Periodicals postage rate is paid at Richmond, VA and additional mailing offices. The annual Subscription Rate is $1.13 (included in membership dues).

Features 9

FARMED FIBERS

Homespun cotton clothing starts from a seed in the ground.

HISTORY’S MYSTERIES

The narrative of James Monroe’s Highland is still being pieced together.

“The mushroom industry in Virginia has gained a lot of traction.” — MATTHEW REISS, Gnomestead Hollow Farm, Carroll County

Postmaster: Please send changes of address to, Cultivate, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, P.O. Box 27552, Richmond, VA 23261; fax 804-2901096. Editorial and business offices are located at 12580 West Creek Parkway, Richmond, VA 23238. Telephone 804-290-1000, fax 804-290-1096. Email address is Cultivate@vafb.com. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. All advertising is accepted subject to the publisher’s approval. Advertisers must assume liability for the content of their advertising. The publisher assumes no liability for products or services advertised. The publisher maintains the right to cancel advertising for non-payment or reader complaints about services or products. Member: Virginia Press Association

EDITORIAL TEAM Pam Wiley Director, Communications Kathy Dixon Managing Editor Nicole Zema Staff Writer/Photographer

Adam Culler Staff Writer/Photographer

PLANT APPS

Patricia Hooten Graphic Designer

Mobile apps can turn a walk in the park into a learning adventure.

FUNGI FORAY

Mushroom farmers are growing a variety of fungi with unique flavors.

Maria La Lima Graphic Designer Alice Kemp Staff Writer/Advertising Coordinator

Departments 5

Save the Date

For Your Benefit

Heart of the Home

VISIT US ONLINE vafb.com

WE’RE SOCIAL!

MEMBERS — Address change? If your address or phone number has changed, or is about to change, contact your county Farm Bureau. They will update your membership and subscription information.

PUBLICATION SCHEDULE

Associate members will receive their next issue of Cultivate in October. The magazine is published quarterly, and back issues can be viewed at issuu.com/virginiafarmbureau.

ON THE COVER Golden oyster mushrooms are among flavorful local varieties gaining in popularity (Photo by Alice Kemp).

KATHY DIXON

Did you know? Sunflowers are synonymous with summer and sunshine, and these vibrant plants bloom from mid-summer through late fall. Their name is fitting because young sunflowers’ faces follow the sun from sunrise to sunset every day until they reach maturity. Mature sunflowers then face east and can attract up to five times more pollinators than other plants because they warm up faster than westward-facing ones. Each sunflower’s petals and fuzzy centers comprise thousands of individual flowers. The petals surrounding a sunflower’s center are flowers themselves and are known as ray florets. Most people expect sunflowers to be bright yellow with brown centers, but some varieties are orange, red or even

purple. And the plants vary in size as well. American Giant sunflowers can grow up to 14 feet tall, and their faces can reach 12 inches wide. Some dwarf sunflower varieties don’t grow taller than 1 foot. While the vibrant sunflower is recognized worldwide for its beauty, the National Sunflower Association said it’s also an important source of food. Sunflower oil is a healthy plant-based oil, and sunflower seeds can be enjoyed as a snack or nutritious ingredient in other foods. Sunflowers originated in North America, with archeological evidence showing sunflower use among American Indian tribes, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The first cultivation of sunflowers occurred in Arizona and New Mexico around 3,000 b.c., USDA reported. While Virginia isn’t a primary sunflower-growing state, there are dozens of farms that host U-pick sunflower fields. You can search for one on the Virginia Department of Agriculture’s farmers market locator, vagrown.va-vdacs.com, or on Virginia Tourism’s website: virginia.org/farmersmarkets. vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

Find It and Win!

WATCH US

County fairs and high timber prices featured on Real Virginia

Cultivate magazine is offering a contest for its readers. In each issue, search for a farming icon, and enter to win. This month’s icon is a goat. Contest rules are as follows: Find the goat inside this publication. Once you’ve located it, send an email to membershipbenefits@ vafb.com with the subject line “Found It.” The body of the email must contain the following: • Your name • Your mailing address • The membership benefit advertisement located nearest the image • The page number where the icon is located

Featured this month on Real Virginia, Virginia Farm Bureau’s weekly television program: • Some Virginia youth get experience showing livestock at county fairs.

The first 15 members who submit correct entries will win a 20-ounce stainless steel Virginia Farm Bureau logo tumbler. Readers are eligible to win only one tumbler during the contest period, January through December 2021. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery. Winners will be contacted by email. *Virginia Farm Bureau and Countryway employees are not eligible to win.

20-OZ. STAINLESS STEEL VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU LOGO TUMBLER!

• Farm moms tell their stories— the good and the not-so-good. • Giles County cattle and hay fields are featured in this month’s County Agriculture Close-up. Real Virginia airs nationwide at 3:30 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month on RFD-TV on Dish Network and DirecTV, and on selected cable outlets around the state. It airs weekly on WBRA digital channel 15.2, WHRO Norfolk, WVVA Bluefield and WTKR Norfolk, and on the first and third weekends of each month on WVIR Charlottesville and WRLH Richmond. Watch Real Virginia anytime online at youtube.com/user/ VirginiaFarmBureau.

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SNAKES

That’s the number of snake species found in Virginia. Of those, only three are venomous, and deaths from snake bites are extremely rare. Read more on page 20.

Save the Date!

Heritage Village seeks exhibitors to help recreate life in early 1900s The State Fair of Virginia’s Heritage Village aims to represent life at the turn of the 20th century, and it needs more artifacts to display. The goal is to “show life as it was— not necessarily farm-related, but just demonstrating people’s downto-earth existence back then,” said Don Frederick, Heritage Village’s superintendent. For example, two years ago, part of a kitchen display featured a wooden bowl that someone’s grandmother had used so much that she wore a hole through it, Frederick said. “These items help bring history to life.” In addition to antique tractors, a blacksmith, a shingle maker and engines that grind corn, Heritage Village features antique items that demonstrate how homeowners, gardeners and farmers lived and worked in the early 1900s. Examples of display items needed include: • Antique appliances like an apple press or washing machine/ wash board • Antique farm tools • Antique telephone or telegraph • Antique toys • Baskets and brooms • Kitchen items

Exhibitors will receive admission tickets and parking passes. Anyone interested in sharing items can contact Frederick at 757-234-3052 or donpatfred@msn.com.

First-place arts and crafts entries like this handcrafted blanket will be on display throughout the fair.

State Fair of Virginia kicks off Sept. 24, runs through Oct. 3 The State Fair of Virginia is back and ready to host fairgoers! Kicking off with fun and food, the 10-day event will run from Sept. 24 through Oct. 3 at The Meadow Event Park in Caroline County. The fair offers fans the opportunity to take a spin on carnival rides or root for their favorite racing pigs. Guests can expect several fan favorites this year, like chainsaw artist Ben Risney. Strolling acts will provide added entertainment as fairgoers walk through the park. The fair also will host a variety of live music on the main stage and two nights of rodeo. And for those seeking iconic fair food, everything from funnel cakes to cotton candy and turkey legs will be available from a variety of food vendors. The annual event showcases the best of Virginia, including award-winning culinary delights, arts and crafts, and giant pumpkins and watermelons. Virginia agriculture is highlighted through equine and livestock exhibits and competitions as well as the popular Young MacDonald’s Farm in Harvest Landing that features the duck slide, chick incubator and Goat Mountain. The fair will operate with safety guidelines in place, including a more spread-out footprint, which will allow some social distancing for a fun and safe experience. For ticket information and a fair schedule, visit StateFairVa.org. vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

For Your Benefit

Farm Bureau members get discounts on goods and services NEW!

Virginia Farm Bureau members get a $250 rebate on select Yamaha vehicles Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., designs, engineers and tests its all-terrain and side-by-side vehicles in the real world. Their products are assembled in America at a state-of-the-art facility in Newnan, Georgia. And now Farm Bureau members in Virginia are eligible to receive $250 Factory Direct Cash on the purchase of select new Yamaha 4WD ATV and SXS vehicles, excluding youth models under 350cc. Yamaha vehicles feature the durability, reliability and quality that Yamaha customers—both on and off the farm—have come to expect. To claim your rebate: Members have up to 30 days after purchase to apply for the $250 rebate*, and there is no waiting period for new members to use the Yamaha discount. Go to vafb.com/membership-at-work/ membership/benefits, and search for Yamaha. Click on the link, select your state, and enter your Farm Bureau membership number and other required information. Click submit, and Yamaha will send a $250 rebate check within 6-8 weeks of submitting the request. * Limit one Factory Direct Cash serialized coupon per eligible VIN, and multiple qualified purchases per household are allowed.

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Meals and more with Member Deals Plus® Virginia Farm Bureau’s exclusive Member Deals Plus® benefit uses the nation’s largest private discount network to save you money on meals, clothing, vehicle care, and other goods and services. It uses “show your phone” mobile deals that can be accessed anywhere and redeemed from a smartphone at the point of sale, or from a home computer. Members can enjoy Member Deals Plus savings at more than 100,000 locations nationwide.

How to get started

To register as a Member Deals Plus user, visit vafb.com/ benefits, and click the Member Deals Plus link near the top of the page. Then, on the Member Deals Plus website, • Click “Register” in the top right corner, and use your Farm Bureau membership number. Once you’re registered, you can start saving immediately. Then, to save with a mobile device, • Download the “Member Deals Plus” app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. • Sign in with your email address and password you created on the website. For assistance, contact Member Deals Plus customer service at 888-275-9136. Member Deals Plus and Member Deals plus are registered trademarks of Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.

Travel Services Road trip it with rental cars Save up to 30% off Avis base rates with Virginia Farm Bureau’s Avis Worldwide Discount number. In addition, enjoy additional offers like dollars off, a complimentary upgrade or a free weekend day. Call 800-331-1212 or visit avis.com/vafb to make a reservation. Save up to 30% off Budget base rates with Virginia Farm Bureau’s Budget Customer Discount number. Plus get other great offers like dollars off, a free upgrade or a free weekend day. Call 800-527-0700 or visit budget.com/vafb to make a reservation. Your Virginia Farm Bureau Avis Worldwide Discount number and Budget Customer Discount number are

For Your Benefit

available from your county Farm Bureau and in the “Membership at Work” section of vafb.com (Register as a member on the site, and log in first).

Visit America’s largest home Biltmore Estate in Ashville, N.C., is America’s largest home. Built by George and Edith Vanderbilt, this property offers visitors tours, carriage rides, beautiful gardens, kayaking, horseback riding, paddle boarding, biking and much more on 8,000 acres. Farm Bureau members in Virginia will receive $10 off regular gate admission to the historic Biltmore estate. Members also can realize reduced rates at The Inn on Biltmore Estate, The Village Hotel and a variety of local accommodations. While there, browse through unique estate shops for wine lovers, gardeners, bookworms and everyone in between. Savor complimentary tastings of more than 20 handcrafted wines; view treasures from the Biltmore collection; and learn about the estate’s animals. Visit Biltmore.com/corporateperk for more information. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

$150 to $250 off tractors $550 to $1,400 off compact construction equipment $100 to $250 off utility vehicles $200 to $1,700 off commercial mowers $50 to $150 off residential mowers Visit JohnDeere.com/FarmBureau, and have your membership number handy. *Must be a member for at least 30 days to qualify.

Ford trucks are $500 off Whether you’re hitting the open road or hauling stuff around, you may want to do it with a Ford pickup truck. Farm Bureau members are eligible for $500 Bonus Cash to use toward the purchase or lease of a new Ford Ranger, F-150, Maverick or Super Duty. Log onto Ford’s Farm Bureau member *website at fordfarmbureauadvantage.com. You must use your membership number and ZIP code to generate a certificate to present to your local Ford dealer. You also must be a Virginia Farm Bureau member for at least 30 days to qualify. *Farm Bureau Bonus Cash is exclusively for active Farm Bureau members who are residents of the United States. The incentive is not available on F-150 Raptor, F-600, F-650 or F-750 Super Duty.

Get admission discounts to top-rated Dollywood parks

America’s merica’s Original

Field & Brush Mower

Located in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., Dollywood is recognized as one of the world’s best theme parks. Spanning 150 acres and located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dollywood offers more than 40 rides and attractions, including Lightning Rod, the world’s fastest wooden coaster. Dollywood has won more awards than that of any other theme park for its live shows featuring country, bluegrass, Southern gospel and classic rock. Members can now purchase discount tickets to the Dollywood Theme Park. Visit Dollywood.com/Store/ Special-Offers?promocode=VAFARMBUREAU or vafb. com/benefits.

• Mow grass up to 8' high • Cut brush up to 3" thick • Engines up to 22 HP • Decks up to 34" wide • Power steering

Home/Business Savings

NEW PRO Model!

Rewards program savings through John Deere Current Virginia Farm Bureau members* are eligible for a complimentary John Deere Rewards upgrade to Platinum 1 status, which unlocks extra discounts on equipment, parts and merchandise. You can save on the following equipment:

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vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

MOTORISTS AND PEDESTRIANS:

Remember to safely share Virginia’s roads BY ADAM CULLER

nsuring the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists should be a year-round commitment for all motorists—a point that is being emphasized during Bicyclist and Pedestrian Awareness Month in September. The annual observance in Virginia serves as a reminder for motorists and pedestrians to share the responsibilities of roadway safety. According to data from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, the number of accidents and fatalities in 2020 was down significantly from record-high totals in 2019. In 2020, there were 1,242 accidents and 114 fatalities involving pedestrians, down from 1,896 accidents and 126 fatalities in 2019. Additionally, there were 560 cyclistinvolved accidents and eight fatalities, down from 754 and 13, respectively. John Saunders, director of highway safety for Virginia DMV, considers last year’s decreases in accidents and fatalities a hollow victory. He noted that even though travel was restricted for several months during the COVID-19 pandemic, 122 people needlessly lost their lives on Virginia roadways. “Numbers are one thing, but when these lives are lost, it’s also the families that are impacted when [individuals] lose their lives on roadways as pedestrians and bicyclists,” Saunders said. “We really have to take care of each other and ensure we’re taking all the precautions we need to take— allowing for the proper rights of way, stopping at stop signs. “We should be doing all the things we need to be doing to be responsible drivers, and definitely not driving distracted or impaired. And, we need to slow down, and take our time.” In conjunction with Bicyclist and Pedestrian Awareness Month, Drive Smart Virginia is reminding drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to share Virginia’s roadways safely through its “See and Be Seen” campaign. The campaign advocates for motorists to drive distractionfree and to be aware of other road users. The initiative also urges bicyclists and pedestrians to avoid distractions, increase their visibility by wearing bright and reflective clothing, use flashlights and bike lights, and obey traffic laws. Virginia law requires drivers to maintain a 3-foot distance from pedestrians and bicyclists on the state’s roadways. When sharing the road with vehicles, cyclists should ride with traffic, and pedestrians should walk facing traffic. Drivers also are required to yield the right of way to

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pedestrians at any clearly marked crosswalks and at intersections where the legal maximum speed doesn’t exceed 35 mph. Motorists also must yield in extensions of sidewalk boundaries at the end of a block.

FIND SOLUTIONS. COMPARE PRODUCTS. ENJOY GREAT PRICES. You identify and fix problems to help keep your facilities running and your people safe; Grainger Choice products can help you balance quality, productivity and price. Now that’s partnership! Get balance with Grainger Choice products. VISIT THE GRAINGER PAGE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SAFETY PROGRAM

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BACK to BASICS

Field to Fabric Virginia cotton farmers use ‘sunshine, rain and soil,’ to supply local crafters with the supplies to spin and weave their own threads, yarns and fabrics.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY ADAM CULLER

Above: Hanover County crafter Cindy Conner holds raw cotton that she spins into woven fabrics. Suffolk cotton farmer Shelley Barlow is one of the Virginia cotton growers raising the crop.

ith each garment she crafts by hand, Cindy Conner wants to start a discussion

about farmed fibers. The Hanover County small farmer is a former educator who helped establish the sustainable agriculture program at Richmond-area J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College in 1999. Following her retirement in 2010, Conner has spent the last several years transforming fiber into clothing. While her crafting has expanded to include work with flax, Conner first began making fabrics with homegrown cotton varieties that generate brown and green fibers. She has completed several garments since finishing her first cotton vest in 2015, and now is happy to explain to those who appreciate her creations that they all started as seeds in the ground. “I’m not naïve to think everyone is going to go out and grow their own clothes,” Conner said. “But by wearing something that I’ve gone seed-togarment with, some people might take notice and the conversation turns to ‘Where do you get your clothes?’ And, maybe more importantly, ‘Where did the fiber come from?’” vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

BACK to BASICS

Employing the vintage techniques of spinning and weaving, Conner is among a shrinking population of artisans who handcraft goods from raw cotton. Compared to flax and wool, cotton fibers are much shorter, making them more difficult to work with when creating threads, yarn and fabric. Ever the teacher, Conner said despite the perceived difficulty, learning to spin and weave with cotton requires little more than attentiveness, plenty of practice and a quality crop.

Transforming cotton into clothing

Virginia-grown cotton typically is produced in southeastern areas of the state, and is harvested each fall. The 2020 growing season yielded more than 79,000 acres of upland cotton, a short-fiber variety that often is used for denim, flannel clothing, towels and underwear. To begin the process of turning the crop into fibers for spinning, harvested cotton is transported to a gin, a machine that separates the lint from the seeds. For the hobbyist grower, this process often is done by hand. After the cotton is ginned, it’s scoured to remove dirt and oil buildup. When working with brown and green cotton, Conner said, the scouring process deepens the natural colors of the fibers. The clean cotton then is carded—or separated—into individual strands that are spun together to create threads and yarn of different diameters. The strands can be spun together with a spindle or spinning wheel. Although spinning wheels can produce threads and yarn faster than spindles, they can be expensive and somewhat impractical for beginners. Spindles are handheld and portable, so crafters can spin while they’re on the move. Once the cotton has been spun, the 10

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Clockwise from top left, looms are used to weave thread and yarn into cloth; Cindy Conner spins cotton using a charkha; and a display of handmade clothing shows the finished products of Conner’s seed-to-garment process.

artist decides what it’s woven into. “Cotton can be turned into so many kinds of things,” said Suffolk cotton farmer Shelley Barlow. “And one of the really important things about cotton versus synthetic fibers is that it’s sustainable and natural. We’re using sunshine, rain and soil to grow new batches of it every year.”

All about the feel

Softer and more breathable than polyester, cotton has remained an admired fiber even though textile markets have become flooded with synthetic fibers. Barlow, who has grown cotton with her husband, Joseph, since 1995, said while manmade fibers come close to mimicking the feel of cotton, “they never quite get there.” She noted the uniqueness of the fibers—and their intrinsic comfort—help keep cotton the first-choice fiber for clothing, home goods and more. And as consumers continue to place an emphasis on sustainable fashion,

cotton provides a renewable fiber source that buyers and crafters can feel good about. “One of the things I like about cotton is that we’re creating clothes from a plant rather than a petroleumbased synthetic fiber,” Barlow said. “We have this whole generation of people who are becoming much more conscious about what their purchases are doing to the world, and I think cotton is an excellent fit to minimize that environmental impact.” *Note: If you would like to grow your own cotton, you must get a permit from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences. The free permit enrolls growers in the Cotton Boll Weevil Eradication Program, which allows VDACS to monitor outbreaks of cotton boll weevils. These insects feed on cotton buds and flowers and can cause widespread damage if not immediately treated. The permit application can be downloaded here: bit.ly/VACottonPermit.

NICOLE ZEMA

— highland lost & found —

Discover history’s mysteries at James Monroe’s Highland

BY NICOLE ZEMA

o uncover the real story of Highland, one must read between the lines. The narrative of President James Monroe’s Albemarle County residence is pieced together with letters, tax records and deeds. But oral histories and current archeological investigations are bringing the site’s history more into focus. Highland’s tantalizing mysteries may appeal to visitors who appreciate subtlety—or hikers who hope to explore 6 miles of trail on the property’s current 535 acres. Formerly known as Ash Lawn, the fifth U.S. president’s former property features both original and demonstrational structures that offer insight into Monroe’s life. They also chronicle the estimated 250 enslaved people who lived and worked on its 3,500 acres throughout Monroe’s lifetime. The sprawling property is shaded by hundreds of white ash trees, where guests can enjoy a guided history walk, stroll through the boxwood garden and peek inside recreated living spaces. Area 4-H programs expose youth to projects at Highland’s working farm. Visitors can see poultry and livestock, and tour

vegetable and ornamental gardens set within the hills of Virginia’s panoramic Piedmont.

Character development Highland’s names have evolved with its identity over the years, rebranded in 2016 from “Ash LawnHighland.” Education programs manager Nancy Stetz said there are people “who say they’ll never call it anything but ‘Ash Lawn.’” Even the origin of “Ash Lawn” is somewhat debated, said Jason Woodle, marketing and events manager. Was it named for its trees, or for the fire that claimed part of the original house? “We’re just now getting an understanding of what Highland looked like, based on the deeds when land was sold,” Stetz said. “A lot of the landscape changed significantly since later owners were here.”

Sifting through subtext A house was built over part of Monroe’s burned home in the 1870s. Flagstones now mark the foundation once buried under topsoil and boxwoods. The fire is only vafb.com vafb.com / SUMMER / SUMMER 2021 2021

mentioned in a letter by the owner at that time. “A president’s former residence burns, and there’s no newspaper account? Are you kidding me?” tour guide Jeff Butcher posed to visitors. “The fire was so intense the house imploded, which is why the guest house is untouched, and this 300-year-old white oak is still with us. Just think what we could learn if that tree could talk.” Trees don’t talk, but artifacts and 18th century structural remains do. Archaeological fact finders from Highland’s parent institution—the College of William & Mary—are interpreting every clue with archaeologists from the University of Virginia. “Our latest archaeological research focuses on the site of the 1799 main house, which was lost to fire,” Woodle said. “These excavations may give us some clues as to where the fire started, how it started, and when. We also hope to learn more about the interior layout of the house, including what is described as the kitchen wing of the structure. There’s a lot we’re still trying to uncover.”

Clockwise from top: An aerial view shows the breadth of the buildings and landscaping at Highland. A statue of Monroe is tucked away in the gardens. The well house and herb garden are enjoyed by visitors, as is the “witness tree,” a white oak that still stands from Monroe’s day. Highland archives depict the quarters that housed enslaved workers.

Elusive epilogue

President Monroe sporadically lived at Highland from 1799 to 1823, but spent most of his time in Washington, D.C., or at Oak Hill, his Loudoun County residence. “He ends up being an absentee owner with long stretches where it’s just 12

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HIGHLAND ARCHIVES

NICOLE ZEMA

highland

GENE RUNION

NICOLE ZEMA

overseers and enslaved families here, and that had to be a really interesting power dynamic,” Stetz said. “That adds to the mystery. Life was still happening, and you hear what’s going on through the letters with overseers.” Oral histories from descendants of Highland’s enslaved people also helped develop the property’s enigmatic narrative. “The Charlottesville region, the presidents and the enslaved community as a whole—it’s one big story,” Woodle said. “And it’s fascinating.”

plan your visit

| Charlottesville

Highland

• For more information, visit highland.org or call 434-293-8000.

• Highland is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2050 James Monroe Parkway, Charlottesville.

• Admission includes guided history walks and access to gardens, lawns, recreated living quarters and the gift shop. Access to trails is free.

NICOLE ZEMA

vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

Smartphone apps help the curious-minded identify flowers, plants and trees anywhere they go.

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FOR THE CURIOUS AND THE CAUTIOUS:

APPS CAN HELP ID PLANTS AND TREES ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY ALICE KEMP

magine you’re out on a morning hike and look down, realizing you’re about to step in some poison ivy. Or is it a blackberry bramble? At first glance, the two can easily be confused. So you pull out your smartphone, open an app, quickly snap a picture, and you breathe a sigh of relief—it’s just a bramble. Plant- and tree-identifying apps like iNaturalist, LeafSnap, PictureThis® and PlantSnap are handy tools that can help people learn about surrounding flora. Convenient and fun for both the curiousminded and plant enthusiasts, these mobile apps can turn a walk in the park into a learning adventure with just a few taps. “It’s a pretty neat technology,” said Chris Mullins, a Virginia Cooperative Extension horticulture specialist. “I think it can be useful and educational.”

Applications in the garden

“Somebody could go, ‘Wow, what is that? I want that in my garden,’” commented horticulturalist Mark Viette. “It’s a great way people can learn about plants—if it’s a plant they can grow or not.” Viette said he frequently gets pictures and questions from homeowners inquiring about what’s in their own backyards. “Say they purchased a house that had a garden 20 or 30 years ago, and there are certain plants they want to determine what they are. Trees especially—a lot of people don’t really know what trees they have.” Serving as a digital guide, the apps can help with planning what to plant and where. Many provide a wealth of information about

climate zones, light, watering, fertilizing requirements and cultural information—in just a few seconds. Viette added they’re also great for identifying which plants are native or invasive and those that are poisonous or “can be troublesome for us in our gardens.” Mullins added that they can even diagnose problems. Oftentimes the apps will provide additional information on plant health, pests and diseases afflicting the plant, and potential treatment options. Others allow users to track their plants’ watering and fertilizing schedules. “That’s key too; to have a lot of information,” Mullins said.

As good as the data

Though countless plant-identifying options are available in iOS and Android app stores, “they’re probably only as good as the database they’re working off of,” Mullins noted. Many of the applications, like PlantSnap and iNaturalist, use artificial intelligence and visual recognition software to identify plants. After the user snaps a crisp, clear photo, the apps pulls from extensive databases to match the plant or select a few of its closest comparisons—allowing the user to make the final determination. Other apps rely on panelists or community feedback, particularly if a plant is afflicted with a disease or pest. “I think these apps work pretty well,” Viette said. “It’s just another great way to get people involved in plants and the outdoors.” vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

FORAY INTO FUNGI:

Va. growers putting local mushrooms on the map

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY ALICE KEMP

Hidden fungi farm one of the largest in the state

riving by Schofield Farm in Dinwiddie County, you would never guess that Paul and Katie Schofield have one of the largest mushroom-growing operations in Virginia. Situated amid wild berry bushes, a few chickens and some sheep, are two small shipping containers and a greenhouse where the couple raises and harvests around 600 pounds of mushrooms each week— oysters, shiitake, lion’s mane and “a little bit of maitake. “We’re gonna start some chestnuts in a couple weeks, so I’m pretty excited about those,” Katie said. The inspiration behind cultivating fungi stemmed from Paul’s education at Virginia Commonwealth University, where one of his professors was researching mushrooms’ anti-cancer properties. Unable to find fresh, local mushrooms for a study, they decided to grow their own. “Then it just turned into, ‘Why don’t we just grow some more and sell them?’” Katie recalled. 16

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Like something out of science fiction

Outfitted with temperature control, a misting system and grow lights, shelves inside the shipping containers are lined with blocks of sawdust and wheat bran substrate that act as growing media. Mycelium—the vegetative part of fungi—webs throughout the substrate with fruit in various stages of growth, looking almost otherworldly. “You open the doors, and fog comes out like it’s a science fiction movie,” Katie chuckled. Paul explained that “you need the right humidity and temperature range. Blue oysters like it cooler. Shiitake like it a little bit warmer, so they’re in the greenhouse. Lion’s mane likes it kind of cool, but not cold.” The Schofields mix their own substrate and purchase ready-to-fruit shiitake logs from a farm in New Jersey. The substrate is steamed, eliminating contaminants before being formed into blocks. Once they are inoculated with spores and

Paul and Katie Schofield are expanding their Dinwiddie County mushroom operation and encourage other farmers to grow fungi.

The Schofields modified shipping containers with heat, air conditioning and a misting system to grow mushrooms year-round.

Oyster mushrooms are fragile and have a much shorter shelf life than hardier mushrooms like shiitake.

Shiitake mushrooms—grown on ready-to-fruit shiitake blocks purchased from a partner farm—are one of the Schofields' most popular.

The wide variety of mushrooms grown by the Schofields is sold at farmers markets, CSAs and restaurants in the Richmond area.

Each block of substrate can typically produce two rounds of fruiting, each of which yields about a pound of mushrooms.

Golden Oyster

Shitake

Blue Oyster

Lion’s Mane

the mycelium is established, the fruiting begins. “The lion’s mane grows slowly. Once it starts fruiting, it’ll be seven days before they can be harvested. These guys,” Paul said, pointing to a cluster of bright yellow oysters, “take about three days.” The Schofields’ mushrooms can be found at farmers markets, community supported agriculture farms and restaurants around Richmond and Colonial Heights. They also sell grow kits to farms and individuals, encouraging others to explore the world of mushrooms.

vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

FORAY INTO FUNGI

Pioppino

Blue Oyster

Gnomestead Hollow is an ode to fungi

estled in a lush green meadow surrounded by forest and a trickling brook, Carroll County’s Gnomestead Hollow Farm and Forage is a nod to mushroom lore. “Gnomes have always been associated with mushrooms—you don’t really see one without the other,” explained owner Matthew Reiss. “They’re guardians of the garden and forest.” Reiss always enjoyed foraging mushrooms in the wild. He started producing them while studying sustainable agriculture at Evergreen College in Washington, where he grew his first fungi at the college farm. A Virginia native, he eventually moved back east and settled on his family’s land in Dugspur. “Depending on the season, I grow about five to 15 varieties,” Reiss said. “I have a pretty passive setup, which relies a lot on the ambient conditions. I built it around this climate zone.” Standing in one of his grow houses, he explained how people enjoy mushrooms’ variety and unique, earthy flavors. “People think ‘earthy’ tastes like dirt, but it doesn’t,” he said. “Some 18

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In addition to selling at farmers markets and restaurants, Matthew Reiss of Gnomestead Hollow Farm and Forage teaches farmers how to diversify their operations by growing mushrooms.

have this really nice, deep umami flavor like the shiitake. Oysters have a delicate, nutty flavor that intensifies when you sauté or roast them.” Lion’s mane, with their slight seafood essence, work well for faux crab cakes. Reishi mushrooms, Reiss said, are bitter and made into teas with ginger and honey. In addition to growing mushrooms, Reiss became the first forager certified by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to sell wild mushrooms in the commonwealth. There wasn’t much of a mushroom industry in Virginia when he first started in 2013, but “it’s gained a lot of traction. A lot more people are growing. A lot more people are foraging, especially since the pandemic. Mushroom

culture is thriving.” Reiss sells at farmers markets and natural food stores in Floyd, Roanoke, Blacksburg and WinstonSalem, N.C. He also has a solid restaurant clientele. “Before the pandemic, restaurants were 80% of my mushroom sales,” he said. “They’re picking back up.”

Mushrooms are deliciously healthy Mushrooms are packed with health benefits. From antibacterial and antiviral properties to boosts for immune, heart and brain health, they’re also “full of vitamin D, full of protein and selenium,” Katie Schofield said. “Always cook your mushrooms,” Reiss advised. Mushrooms have an outer cell layer called chitin, which needs to be broken down before eating.

Golden Oyster

Reishi

Recipes Sautéed Oyster Mushrooms Growing Chestnut

Gnomestead Sign

INGREDIENTS

4 cups oyster mushrooms, sliced into even pieces 2 tablespoons butter 2 garlic cloves, minced salt and pepper to taste DIRECTIONS

COURTESY OF GNOMESTEAD HOLLOW

In a large skillet over medium heat, add oyster mushrooms and sauté dry for 3-5 minutes to cook the water out. Add butter, garlic, salt and pepper, and continue sautéing until mushrooms are slightly crispy on edges, about 10 more minutes.

The Young Lion INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons coconut oil or butter half an onion, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 pound lion’s mane mushrooms, sliced 1 or 2 summer squash, sliced into ¼" thick rounds pepper to taste 1 teaspoon tamari or soy sauce 3 eggs DIRECTIONS

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt coconut oil or butter. Add onions and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes until fragrant. Add mushrooms, squash, pepper and tamari, and sauté for 10 minutes until mushrooms are crispy.

Not a vegetable or a fruit, fungi are their own kingdom and are actually more similar to animals than plants in that they take in oxygen and emit carbon dioxide.

Once the mushrooms are cooked thoroughly, crack in the eggs. Cover, and cook until eggs are the desired doneness. -Recipes adapted from Gnomestead Hollow Farm and Forage

vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

Snake bites:

Easily prevented by leaving snakes alone

irginia’s herpetologist has four words for people who are afraid of snakes. “Just. Leave. Them. Alone.” John “J.D.” Kleopfer said that 99% of all encounters between humans and snakes can be resolved safely if people would heed his advice. “That way, you don’t have to worry about whether they are venomous or not,” he explained. “Bad things often happen when people take matters into their own hands.” Yet death from snake bites in Virginia is extremely rare. According to the Virginia Department of Health, only about one death occurs every 10-15 years. There are 32 species of snakes in Virginia, but only three are venomous. And of the three venomous snakes,

only the eastern copperhead is found statewide. The other two—the northern cottonmouth and the timber rattlesnake—have limited geographical distribution. Kleopfer, who has served as the state herpetologist with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources for 15 years, recalled an incident where someone didn’t follow his advice. A Chesapeake resident whose property backed up to the Great Dismal Swamp area was alerted by his kids that while they were mowing they’d seen a rattlesnake in the underbrush at the back of the property. The man grabbed a brick and smashed the snake with it. “He then went back with a neighbor, who was wearing shorts and tennis shoes, thinking the snake was dead. But it wasn’t, and the neighbor got bitten,”

BY KATHY DIXON

Kleopfer shared. The man was OK, he noted, emphasizing that rattlesnakes are not aggressive and will only strike if provoked. About 8,000 people in the U.S. are bitten by venomous snakes each year, and up to 10 of them die as a result, according to the Virginia Herpetological Society. Venomous snake bites are considered medical emergencies, and they can be deadly if not treated quickly. However, the chances of being envenomated are extremely low. “Although venomous snakes occasionally may pose a risk to one’s personal health and safety, the vast majority of species do not present an imminent danger or threat to us,” said Dr. James Parkhurst, an associate professor in Virginia Tech’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Department.

Look out for these Va. venomous snakes!

Northern Cottonmouth

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Snakes can be helpful Most snakes are even beneficial. Larger snake species help manage rodent populations by eating eat mice, rats and voles, Parkhurst said. Many smaller snakes feed on insects in gardens and landscaped areas. Black racers and eastern kingsnakes will often prey on other snakes, including venomous species. Some snakes serve as a food resource for other predators, such as raccoons, opossums, skunks, birds of prey and even other snakes.

Vipers inject venom Copperheads, cottonmouths and rattlesnakes are all in the viper family. Vipers are heavy-bodied snakes with distinctive triangular heads and vertical pupils. Vipers possess a pair

of hollow fangs that connect to venom glands located behind their eyes at the back part of the jaw. Venom travels down the teeth to be injected into prey.

Keep an eye out As people are spending time outside during the summer months, they should take certain precautions. Snakes are most active at night and in warm weather, so watch where you step, and use a flashlight when walking at night. Protective clothing also is important when spending time in places where snakes may be hiding, like brush. Never handle a snake, even if you think it is dead. Recently killed snakes can bite by reflex—even detached snake heads. “Remember, snakes are not out to get you and will not chase you,” Kleopfer

Common name: Northern Cottonmouth Scientific name: Agkistrodon piscivorus Latin for (hook tooth – twister) Average length: 30-48” Coloration: Yellowish olive to black with a series of 10-23 black crossbands in a dumbbell shape – wide on the sides and narrower in the center Location: Counties of Brunswick, Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Greensville, Isle of Wight, Prince George, Southampton,

Timber Rattlesnake

Common name: Timber Rattlesnake Scientific name: Crotalus horridus (Latin for rattle-horrid) Average length: 30-60” Coloration: Variable in color with a series of 16-27 blotches and crossbands Location: 40 counties in the Southwest, Valley and Northern areas of Virginia and also in the Hampton Roads area in the cities of Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Suffolk and Virginia Beach, and York County.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF J.D. KLEOPFER

Common name: Eastern Copperhead Scientific name: Agkistrodon contortrix Latin for (hooked tooth – fish-eating) Average length: 24-36” Coloration: Pinkish tan to black with 10-18 hourglass-shaped crossbands, which are chestnut to dark brown Location: Statewide

Harmless mistaken for harmful Cornsnakes, eastern milksnakes and eastern ratsnakes are often mistaken for copperheads because of their patterns. Northern cottonmouth often are confused with harmless northern water snakes as well as other aquatic and semi-aquatic snakes. One of the best ways to prevent venomous snake bites is to “get to know which snakes live in your area,” Kleopfer recommended. He said the VHS provides statewide identification charts. Visit virginiaherpetolocialsociety.com for more information.

Snake bite first aid

Surry, Sussex and York, and the cities of Chesapeake, Newport News, Suffolk and Virginia Beach.

Eastern Copperhead

emphasized. “If you leave them alone, they will leave you alone.”

Someone has been bitten by a venomous snake. Now what? 1. Call 911 or seek medical attention immediately. 2. Remain calm and/or keep the person calm. 3. Keep the bite area level with or higher than the person’s heart, if possible. 4. Remove any rings or other constricting items, because the affected area may swell. Here are some things NOT to do: 1. D o not allow the person to become over-exerted. 2. Do not apply a tourniquet. 3. D o not apply cold compresses to a snake bite. 4. D o not cut into a snake bite with a knife or razor. 5. Do not try to suction the venom by mouth or other instruments. 6. D o not give the person stimulants or medications. 7. Do not let that person drive themselves to the hospital. —Virginia Herpetological Society

vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

Floyd County master agent Ed Terry receives Ralph Stokes Award BY NICOLE ZEMA

NICOLE ZEMA

Ralph Stokes winner, Ed Terry, stands in front of the hand-built cabin in Carroll County where he relaxes when not serving Farm Bureau members.

strong desire to help people protect their standard of living drove Floyd County master agent Ed Terry to be a consistently high performer for Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. He was honored for his 31 years of service and received the Ralph Stokes Award at this year’s annual sales conference in March. This is the highest award for career achievement, celebrating a sales agent who supports company policies, is respected by peers, and represents the values of Virginia Farm Bureau throughout their community. Terry started his insurance sales career in Carroll County in 1990, demonstrating immediate success. He was recognized as the State New Agent of the Year and has maintained that level of achievement, winning numerous contests and incentives and frequently being recognized as one of 22

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the company’s top producing agents. Terry tries to sell the value of working with an agent, even though insurance products are sold online. “When I started, if you wanted insurance, you’d call an agent,” he said. “Now an individual you know and trust has to tell you about a positive experience with a Farm Bureau agent. But once people have a face-to-face conversation, it’s not a tough sell.” Terry grew up on his family’s beef cattle farm in Meadows of Dan. He developed leadership skills in FFA beginning in eighth grade, eventually earning the FFA American Farmer Degree. He graduated from Virginia Tech, having paid his own tuition by building houses with his uncle. Now Terry revels in the fruits of his hard work and dedication. When not at home in Hillsville, he is relaxing at a cabin he built by hand in Carroll County. Char-tinged pine beams from

an old tobacco barn and discarded doors from long-shuttered community facilities were repurposed in the cabin he enjoys with his wife, Lora. They relish spending time with their three adult children and two grandsons, with a granddaughter on the way. Farming, missions work, church activities and town council leadership keep him otherwise occupied. VFBMIC established the Ralph Stokes Award in 1986, the same year Stokes retired after selling Farm Bureau insurance for 32 years. Though he used a wheelchair, Stokes’ physical limitations did not deter him from faithfully serving policyholders in remote areas. “I only met him a couple times,” Terry said. “But there was humility with which he went about things that is an example to us all.”

Address windshield damage early to avoid costly repairs BY ADAM CULLER

otorists who have experienced the misfortune of having their windshield damaged by wayward rocks and other objects know these incidents can ruin an ordinary drive. To make matters worse, those unsuspecting drivers must then deal with the hassle of repairing the damage, whether it’s a small chip or a massive crack. It’s a situation nobody wants to find themselves in, but there is good news. If you have Other Than Collision coverage—also known as comprehensive— on your auto insurance policy, the included glass coverage will help cover the costs to repair a damaged windshield. Depending on your policy’s deductible, those repairs could be free. Virginia Farm Bureau auto insurance policyholders may choose any repair shop to do the work, but they should first make sure the business accepts their insurance. Otherwise, default repair services on glass claims are provided by Safelite AutoGlass®, a leading industry provider of vehicle glass repair, replacement and recalibration services. Through Safelite, customers can choose in-shop service where repairs and replacements can be completed in as little as 30 minutes to an hour. Safelite also provides mobile services, offering customers the convenience

of scheduling a time for a technician to come to their home, workplace or any other location. “When your vehicle sustains minor windshield damage, drivers should schedule repair service quickly,” said Jon Cardi, senior vice president of Safelite Solutions, an insurance administrative division of Safelite. “Our technicians have a higher likelihood of saving the windshield with an environmentally friendly repair instead of a full replacement if the damage is addressed early. This cost-efficient and effective

process eliminates out-ofpocket costs, while driving higher levels of customer satisfaction.” Cardi noted costs related to windshield replacements continue to increase due to the presence of advanced safety features found in modern vehicles. In many newer models, features such as Automatic Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Warning work with a camera connected to the windshield. A windshield replacement would require recalibration of these features, thus increasing repair costs. To avoid a pricey fix, it’s

advisable to schedule a repair while chips or cracks are 6 inches or smaller. In most cases, your windshield can be repaired if it has three chips or less, or if the damage has not affected any cameras or sensors. Policyholders can start a glass claim by calling 800452-7714 (Have the auto policy number handy), and following the prompts. Customers also may report a claim online at vafb.com. To inquire about glass coverage on your auto insurance policy, contact your Farm Bureau agent.

Damaged windshields are covered under comprehensive auto insurance policies. vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

‘Like a freight train coming through the pasture’

Bob and Kathy Copeland with their horses, Stormy and Tommy, that survived the Southampton County tornado caused by Tropical Storm Isaias in August 2020.

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Are you prepared for hurricane-related storm events? BY NICOLE ZEMA

NICOLE ZEMA

ob and Kathy Copeland had just celebrated one month in their Courtland home in August 2020 when they were jarred awake by severe weather alerts on their phones just before 3 a.m. An EF2 tornado with wind speeds up to 125 mph, produced by Tropical Storm Isaias, dragged through Southampton County, aiming right at their property. “I got up and put the TV on, and then the power went out,” Bob recalled. “It was a heck of a noise around here, like a freight train coming through the pasture.” Hail smacked against the windows, and Kathy said she was terrified. They took shelter in an interior hallway. “They told me this house is well-built, but we’re going to find out,” Bob remembered thinking. Then a tree crashed into the house’s back corner. “We got dressed real fast, because we have horses and didn’t know what happened outside,” Kathy said. The pasture fence was destroyed, and the frightened horses were huddled under a broken tree branch. The Copelands’ vehicles sustained some body damage, but their three-horse gooseneck horse trailer was a total loss—crumpled and tossed like a piece of paper. The garage was torn 4 feet off its foundation, the greenhouse was on the ground, and a 100-gallon water tank ended up across the street. “It was like a bomb went off,” Kathy recalled. Later that morning, Bob called their Southampton County Farm Bureau agent John Drewry, whose team had set up a field office outside to serve customers affected by the storm and power outage. “It wasn’t 30 minutes until he was here taking notes and pictures,” Bob said. Damage to the Copelands’ property has been repaired almost a year later, but the memory is still fresh. “It was his mother’s birthday, so we named it ‘Tornado Marion,’” Kathy quipped. After that storm, Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. processed more than 500 property and auto claims. Last year brought a historic level of storm activity—the most active and fifth costliest Atlantic hurricane season on record. Of the 30 named storms in 2020, 14 developed into hurricanes, and seven intensified into major hurricanes. The 2021 season also is expected to be active, with a likely range of 13 to 20 named storms, of which six to 10 could become hurricanes, including three to five major hurricanes.

From left, the Copelands' roof was damaged by a tree crashing into the back corner of their house, their garage was torn off its foundation and their horse trailer was a total loss.

Prepare for the worst, hope for the best A hurricane warning can give homeowners advance time to plan for its landfall, and a preplanned storm plan can give Virginians peace of mind as they prepare to weather the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs through Nov. 30. • Resources can be accessed through vafb.com to help determine your risk, devise a plan and build an emergency kit. • To secure your property before a hurricane, Farm Bureau’s Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Central recommends boarding up windows with cut-to-fit plywood. • Charge mobile devices and locate a batterypowered radio and flashlights if severe weather is predicted. • Secure any objects that might become windborne debris, including damaged trees and limbs. • Clear gutters to avoid unnecessary water damage. • Store important personal, family or business documents in a watertight container. • Make sure your household inventory is up to date, and schedule an insurance review before the need ever arises.

vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

Learn about Medicare options through free virtual seminars

irtual Medicare 101 seminars were so popular in 2020 that Virginia Farm Bureau is once again offering a series of free informational classes for its members. “Medicare can be confusing, and it’s important that you have a good understanding of how Medicare works,” said Tracy Cornatzer, sales manager for VFB Health Insurance division. “We had a great turnout in 2020, and since the pandemic is continuing, we’ve decided to hold this year’s seminars virtually to minimize risk to our members, customers and staff.” The virtual sessions are accessible from the living room couch or kitchen table—on a computer, phone or tablet. Sessions typically last an hour, and a representative of VFB’s Health Insurance division will present the

material. Cornatzer said it covers the nuts and bolts of how Medicare and related plans work. Enrollment periods and plan timelines also will be explained during the sessions. Virginia Farm Bureau has facilitated Medicare seminars since 2016, but last year was the first time the sessions were held online. “We will miss seeing everyone in person but are happy that with the aid of technology we can offer these classes through a computer, tablet or phone,” Cornatzer said. To RSVP, email your name, county, email address, and the date of your chosen seminar to MedicareSeminar@ vafb.com or contact your local Farm Bureau office. Participants can RSVP to the session of their choice and will be sent a Webex link to join that meeting virtually.

Virginia Farm Bureau members can learn about Medicare during free, one-hour informational sessions.

Seminars will be held at 10 a.m. on Sept. 7, and at 6 p.m. on Aug. 26 and Sept. 23. If you are unable to attend and have questions about Medicare or need assistance signing up for a Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, or Part D plan, contact a local Farm Bureau office or call 800-229-7779. You also can request a quote at vafb.com/ health.

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Have questions about Medicare Supplements? Call today!

Virginia Farm Bureau 1-800-229-7779 An authorized licensed insurance agent for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia, license number: 109534

This policy has exclusions, limitations and terms under which the policy may be continued in force or discontinued. For more information on benefits, please contact your agent or the health plan. Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the federal Medicare program. The purpose of this communication is the solicitation of insurance. Contact will be made by an insurance agent or insurance company. Anthem Health Plans of Virginia, Inc. trades as Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia, and its service area is all of Virginia except for the City of Fairfax, the Town of Vienna, and the area east of State Route 123. Independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. AADVOTH006M(15)-VA 55681VASENABS 26

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Members urged to update contact information

Routine dental care can contribute to a clean bill of health

BY ADAM CULLER

f you’re afraid of going to the dentist, you’re not alone. According to the American Dental Association, 22% of Americans experience dental anxiety, causing some to forego routine dental care. While the process of keeping your pearly whites healthy can be scary for some and unimportant to others, regular dental visits and maintaining good oral hygiene can improve your overall wellness. Studies have shown that poor dental hygiene can increase the risk for cancer, heart disease, kidney disease and respiratory infections such as pneumonia. “The mouth really is an entryway for bacteria, and having poor oral hygiene is a common cause of infection elsewhere in the body,” explained Dr. Amy Johnson, a nurse practitioner with Centra Medical Group and president of Bedford County Farm Bureau. In addition to the increased risk of cardiovascular, renal and respiratory infections, Johnson noted, poor oral health can affect a person’s ability to eat and can cause nutritional deficiencies. Oral infections also can lead to sinus issues. If left untreated, infections can produce abscesses around the brain in severe cases. “You really need to be cognizant of your oral health and realize that it

can affect your body in any number of ways,” Johnson said. “Following up with your dentist every six months will make sure your mouth is in good health.” Under most dental insurance plans, subscribers are afforded two dental exams and two teeth cleanings each year, generally performed six months apart. During an exam, a dentist or hygienist will check for cavities, gum disease or any other oral abnormalities. Bitewing and panoramic X-rays also are typically covered during specific intervals. Most dental plans also include coverage for restorative services such as extractions, fillings, root canals and other procedures. Unlike exams and cleanings, which typically are covered at 100% under most dental plans, restorative procedures require the insured to pay a deductible and co-insurance. “There are a number of plans to choose from based on your dental needs. Some have deductibles and co-insurance, while others have fixed copayments for dental procedures,” said Tracy Cornatzer, sales manager for Virginia Farm Bureau Health Insurance division. To learn more about dental plans offered through Anthem and Delta Dental, contact your local Farm Bureau office or call 800-229-7779.

he key to connecting Virginia Farm Bureau members with news and information about agriculture, insurance, membership and safety is your contact information. However, if the email address or mobile phone number associated with your membership isn’t current, you could be missing out on the latest news or important insurance updates coming from Farm Bureau. To check whether your contact information is up to date, log in to your account on vafb.com and click on “profile,” which is found in the red bar in the main menu. If you need to update your email address or phone number, click on the drop-down menu to do so. Alternatively, customers can call their local Farm Bureau office and share contact information with a staff member. Customers should always contact their local office when a change of address occurs. “There’s an array of reasons as to why it’s crucial for customers to provide their contact information, but the primary reason is that we want our customers to be properly covered and informed of any news we’re sending,” said Gerald Gardner, director of sales for Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. Providing a current email address unlocks access to VFBMIC’s newest initiative. In March, VFBMIC launched a paperless option, bringing customers online access to their policy information for the first time. Sign-up information was sent to policyholders who had an active email address associated with their insurance policies. Policyholders who choose paperless enrollment receive email alerts when policy documents are available, and have around-the-clock access to those documents and statements. Payments also can be made online. Customers with an active email address can enroll in paperless services by logging into their account on vafb.com. vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

Heart of the Home

Crazy for cucumbers!

Crisp, refreshing bites to keep you cool

Cucumber gazpacho provides a cool summer soup option. 28

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ALICE KEMP

ven though they’re 96% water, cucumbers pack a punch when it comes to health benefits. In addition to boosting hydration, they provide nutrients like vitamins B, C, K, folic acid, magnesium, phosphate and potassium. Full of antioxidants and good for heart health, a single cup of cucumber is only 16 calories. Botanically, cucumbers are a fruit but are used as a vegetable, like tomatoes. In the same family as watermelons, muskmelons, pumpkins and gourds, cucumbers have been farmed for at least 3,000 years. Have you heard the expression, “cool as a cucumber?” Many believe this phrase originated from the fact that the inside of a cucumber can be as much as 20 degrees cooler than the outside air, even on a hot day! Whether you grow them yourself or buy them at the market, cucumbers are adaptable and make a great addition to salads and sandwiches, can be enjoyed on their own, or even pickled!

Cucumber and Onion Salad

½ teaspoon salt, divided

Top with ¾ cup relish.

½ teaspoon black pepper, divided

—Recipe adapted from North Carolina Cooperative Extension

INGREDIENTS

¼ teaspoon ground cumin

2½ cups thinly sliced, unpeeled cucumbers

¼ teaspoon paprika

½ cup thinly sliced onion

2 cups quartered grape tomatoes

⅓ cup sugar

⅓ cup fresh cilantro

⅓ cup white vinegar

2½ cups chopped English cucumber

2 tablespoons chopped, fresh dill ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup whole milk plain Greek yogurt

DIRECTIONS

¼ cup chopped onion

In a medium-size bowl, toss cucumbers and onions together, and set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk remaining ingredients until blended. Pour over cucumbers and onions. Cover, and chill for 2 hours, stirring several times.

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

—Recipe adapted from Arkansas Cooperative Extension

Cucumber Gazpacho with Shrimp Relish INGREDIENTS

2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil ¾ pound peeled, deveined medium shrimp, chopped

Choose either combination. The directions are the same for both. STRAWBERRY CUCUMBER INGREDIENTS

¾ cup strawberries 1 small cucumber This garbanzo and cucumber combination makes a great alternative to a traditional lettuce salad.

CUCUMBER LEMON INGREDIENTS

Garbanzo Bonanza Salad

1 lemon

dash of ground pepper

INGREDIENTS

1 large garlic clove, peeled

15-ounce can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed

DIRECTIONS

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle shrimp with ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, cumin and paprika. Add shrimp to pan, and sauté 2 minutes or until done. Stir in tomatoes, and remove from heat. Add cilantro. In a blender, add remaining ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, cucumber and remaining ingredients, and process until smooth. Ladle 1 cup soup into each of four bowls.

Cucumberinfused Water

1 small English cucumber, diced 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice ½ teaspoon salt DIRECTIONS

In a large bowl, mix all ingredients together, and serve.

1 small cucumber 1 mint sprig DIRECTIONS

Wash produce. Slice fruit and cucumber into thin slices. For each variation, place fruit and herbs into a pitcher with cold water and mix. Chill in the refrigerator overnight or enjoy immediately. The fruit will stay fresh in the water for up to 48 hours. After the water is gone, eat the fruit, or blend it into a smoothie. —Recipe adapted from Cornell Cooperative Extension

—Recipe adapted from Cornell Cooperative Extension

vafb.com / SUMMER 2021

Secure your e-commerce services under your business owner policy BY ADAM CULLER

or many businesses around the world, remote work is here to stay after companies experienced success operating virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic. The benefits are clear—fewer expenditures on rent or mortgages, flexibility to conduct business from anywhere and, for some businesses, increased productivity. All of these provide more freedom to operate. But while remote work has positive benefits, virtual business activities also can pose cybersecurity threats. “If you watched the news of the Colonial Pipeline cyberattack unfold in May, then you know just how costly ransomware can be,” said Lisa Whitus, personal and commercial lines

underwriting manager for Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. “Instances like these have become a huge issue for businesses, and as more businesses buy, sell, operate or communicate online, the higher their cyber liability risks will be.” By purchasing a business owner policy through Virginia Farm Bureau, owners of small to mid-size businesses can obtain insurance tailored for their needs, including cyber liability coverage. Business owner policies, commonly referred to as BOP, offer combined business insurance coverage without the need to purchase multiple policies. Through BOP, property coverage, lost income coverage and business liability

GENERATIONS O F S U CC E SS

coverage are combined into a single, comprehensive policy. Policies can be customized according to industry, and often cost less than having individual policies. VFBMIC policies can provide coverage for a wide variety of businesses. Customers also can endorse their policies with a cyber suite endorsement, which includes protections against data compromise liability, network security liability, cyber extortion and malware and ransomware attacks. Business owners also may endorse their homeowner policies to provide coverage for business property in homes and protect against certain business liability exposures. Unendorsed homeowner policies will not automatically provide those protections. To learn more about BOP coverage options, visit vafb.com/ business-insurance.

You value growing the legacy of your farm. We value guiding families like yours toward that legacy. When you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to our team.

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Cover catastrophic events with an umbrella policy BY ADAM CULLER

ou’ve worked your whole life to build up your savings account, putting away money for retirement, college tuition or a rainyday fund. Now imagine that money being depleted by an accident in which a liability claim exceeds the coverage provided by your insurance policies. Without an umbrella insurance policy, the risk of that happening can be real. “Say you have an auto policy with coverage limits for $100,000 for liability, bodily injury and property damage, and you get into an accident where the injuries were massive,” said Lisa Whitus, personal and commercial lines underwriting manager for Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. “If a judge determines that you’re at

fault and the injured person should be awarded $200,000, your policy will pay $100,000, but where will you get the other $100,000? If you have umbrella coverage, the additional amount would be covered,” Whitus said. Umbrella insurance policies are written to coincide with policies that provide liability coverage, such as auto, business owner or homeowner policies. They include additional liability protection “over and above” what’s provided under standard policies. If a person is found to be at fault for an incident, an umbrella policy takes over once that policyholder exhausts the liability limits of their coverage. Umbrella policies offer protection for bodily injury of others, including injuries caused by auto accidents or

when a guest injures themselves on your property. They also provide added coverage for property damage liability, including incidents in which you damage another person’s automobile or other physical property. Protection against burdensome legal fees from lawsuits also are covered under umbrella policies. Like most Farm Bureau insurance products, umbrella policies are customizable to best protect your family’s financial future. “Opting for an umbrella policy is a way to protect yourself when these things happen, giving you an added layer of financial security.” To learn more, visit vafb.com/ insurance/umbrella, or call your local Farm Bureau insurance agent.

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REAL VIRGINIA

Together, we’ll overcome the opioid epidemic.

A weekly television program produced by Virginia Farm Bureau

#FarmTownStrong

Agriculture touches your life every day! Meet the Virginia farmers who raise products for your table and your community. Learn how to prepare delicious Virginia foods and cultivate a lush landscape and edible garden. Real Virginia airs nationwide at 3:30 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month on RFD-TV on Dish Network and DirecTV, and on many cable outlets—check local listings. Watch anytime at vafb.com, and weekly on • WBRA digital channel 15.2 • WHRO Norfolk

• WTKR Norfolk • WVVA Bluefield

Watch the first and second weekends of each month on

If someone you care about is suffering from opioid addiction, please visit farmtownstrong.org.

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• WRLH Richmond

• WVIR Charlottesville

vafb.com / SUMMER 2021 11/15/18 10:13 AM

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