Family

by

Rearranging

I was doing so good. I started the year off right with 6 blog posts in January of 2013. I refreshed the blog homepage and caught up on my ag reading. I rearranged and cleaned up from the wedding and the holidays. But then life happens. Things change and you rearrange again. Some things get done well. Others get lost in the transition, such as my work with this blog. But I’m catching up and looking forward to the future! Here’s the reason for so much “rearranging”:

On Feb. 1, we settled on a new home and a small farm. We have been cleaning, painting, and rearranging ever since.

On Feb. 1, we settled on a new home with some acreage. We have been cleaning, painting, and “rearranging” ever since.

At the end of February, our church lost a loved one, Mrs. Barb Hanson. She was one of the first ones that reached out to me as a guest this time last year. She helped me with our wedding and was so excited we chose Prospect as our church and on our wedding day. She was always smiling. The last time we talked, she was excited to come over and see our new house. We will miss her...

At the end of February, our church lost a loved one, Mrs. Barb Hanson. She was one of the first members that reached out to me as a visitor this time last year. She helped me with our wedding and was so excited we chose Prospect for our wedding day (as you can see above). She was always smiling. The last time we talked, she was excited to come over and see our new house. We will miss her…

In March, I began to teach a 7 week political course for Wilmington University. I usually teach quite a few courses over the winter as a part-time adjunct. It's my way to stay involved in teaching but it takes up a lot of my spare time. I also developed a health care policy course online. I take the material from the text and convert it to an online format using Blackboard. Very time consuming and challenging. All of the courses I'm involved in are for the new Government & Public Policy undergraduate program at Wilmington University. My goal is to lighten my load in the future to "rearrange" my spare time priorities.

In March, I began teaching a 7 week political course for Wilmington University. Since 2009, I have taught quite a few courses over the winter as a part-time adjunct. It’s my way to stay involved in teaching but it takes up a lot of my weekends and spare time. I also developed a health care policy course online. I take the material from the text and convert it to an online format using Blackboard. It’s very time-consuming and challenging. All of the courses I work on are for the new Government & Public Policy undergraduate program at Wilmington University. I’m looking forward to a break over the summer! My goal is to lighten this load as I “rearrange” my spare time priorities.

By the end of March, I had already found a greenhouse frame for sale. Breck, Dad and I went to pick it up. I can't wait to get it up at our new place. At the same time, Scott was working on framing in our pole barn.

By the end of March, I already found a greenhouse frame for sale. Farmer Dan, Breck, and I went to pick it up. I can’t wait to get it up at our new place. At the same time, Scott was working on the inside of our pole barn.

April is the month for birthdays in my family. Pop-Pop Messick, Danna, Derek, Devon, Alanna, Brielle, Jesse, and Townsend celebrated their birthday. Here Alanna celebrates turning 12! Brielle turned 9!

April is the month for birthdays in my family. Pop-Pop Messick, Danna, Derek, Devon, Alanna, Brielle, Jesse, and Townsend celebrated birthdays. Here, Alanna celebrates turning 12! Brielle turned 9! Where did the time go? They’re going to be taller than me soon!

Breck and Mom also got back into the greenhouse in late March and early April. Most of the flowers are ready now. Mom and I have been updating our website and working on farmer's market applications. Amber has been helping as well and decided to try out the Milton Farmer's market, which is on Friday nights from 3:30-6:30 pm. Its a success so far-they sold out of all flowers and veggies last Friday!

Breck and Mom also got back into the greenhouse in late March and early April. Most of the flowers are ready now. Mom and I have been updating our website (www.lilwagon.com) and working on farmer’s market applications. Amber has been helping and decided to try out the Milton Farmer’s market, which is on Friday nights from 3:30-6:30 pm. It’s a success so far-they sold out of all flowers and veggies last Friday! We begin Milford farmer’s market on Sat., May 4, 9am-1pm.

And by the end of April, we are getting ready to plant our own little garden. We're also "rearranging" the landscaping and the driveway. Lots of work to do! I spent most of the weekend washing windows.

And by the end of April, we are getting ready to plant our first garden. We’re also “rearranging” the landscaping and the driveway. Lots of work to do! I spent most of the weekend washing windows. Scott worked on the yard.

And last but not least, our pups have finally adjusted to all the rearranging. Lucy (black, female) was a little unsure at first but loves to sit on the back step in the sun with me now. She also loves to lick on the neighbor's kids! Deuce loves all the room to run and roll around. Lucy will be 1 year old in May.

And last but not least, our pups have finally adjusted to all the rearranging. Lucy (black, female) was a little unsure at first but loves to sit on the back step in the sun with me. She also loves to lick on the neighbor’s kids! Deuce loves all the room to run and roll around with his bone. Lucy will be 1-year-old in May. We hope for lots of puppies in the future!

by

Celebrating Delaware’s #1 Industry

From this week:

  • The 42nd Annual Ag Industry Dinner was held last night at Dover Downs. The 2013 Secretary’s Award for Distinguished Service to Agriculture went to……..Mr. Walter C. Hopkins, the dairy farmer from Lewes, Del. DDA posted a press release today as well as a Flicker site with pictures from the event. Guests were given this 2013 Calendar-Celebrating DE’s #1 Industry, featuring pictures of many local farmers and farm families:
Celebrating Delaware's #1 Industry 2013 Calendar

Celebrating Delaware’s #1 Industry 2013 Calendar

My cousin, Jesse Vanderwende, is the January feature:

January-Jesse

Jesse Vanderwende, Walnut Tree Farm, Bridgeville, Del.

But I also loved the February picture of the Bennett family from Milton, Del. and April which showcased the budding Johnson family from Selbyville with their cute little piglets!

Bennett Farm, Selbyville, Del.

Bennett Farm, Milton, Del.

Johnson's Country Market, Selbyville, Del.

Johnson’s Country Market, Selbyville, Del.

Want a calendar? You can probably call DDA or let me know (christyvwright@gmail.com). I picked up extras that were left at my table. 🙂

Coming up:

  • Feb. 7– DDA will have their the Joint Finance Committee Hearing, at Legislative Hall, from 1:30-2 pm.
  • Feb. 8– This isn’t ag related, but in 2 weeks I’ll be at the “Chowdown for Charity“, at Bethany Blues in Lewes from 6-8 pm. A new group of young professionals (25-40 year olds) from Kent and Sussex counties, named TNG (The Next Generation), are fundraising for mental health charities. Perfect timing given the Governor’s emphasis on mental health professionals in schools in his proposed budget this week. Tickets are $40. Food will be BBQ. Lots of nice items will be in our silent auction. Come join us! Better yet, join the group! You can find us on Facebook or at http://www.delcf.org/TNG
  • Feb. 15- Apparently Class III of the LEADelaware program has extended its deadline until this date. I’ve heard and read lots of great things about this program in Maryland. I hope Delaware can reinvigorate their’s.
  • Feb. 22-23– Regional Women in Ag Conference will be held at Dover Downs. Register here!
by

Meat Monday’s

Back in July of 2012, the USDA caused quite a stir when it circulated a newsletter promoting the concept of “Meatless Monday“, which encouraged people to skip eating meat one day a week. Don’t believe me? It’s true and thanks to Ag Wired, the newsletter was uploaded to their server and can still be found here. Of course, the USDA pulled it soon after the backlash started; the Secretary supposedly did not give the article clearance. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association wasted no time questioning the USDA’s commitment to agriculture, particularly the livestock industry. In addition, two US Senators came up with the idea of “Meat Monday” while eating barbecue beef brisket, ribs and sausage in response to the USDA gaffe. The name went viral on social media sites; there’s even a Facebook page in honor of “Meaty Monday“.

Besides the fact that the USDA lost major trust and credibility amongst its own audience, there are plenty of reasons to actually eat meat and promote it, for that matter. Of course, there’s the scientific and the biblical view, which support the eating of meat. But I’ll stick to these 6 reasons, which include making you feel sexy! 🙂

With cooler weather, football playoffs, and the upcoming Superbowl, winter seems like the perfect time to tear into some new “MEATY” recipes. I’ll be testing out and posting a few meat recipes over the following winter Monday’s.  Here’s to “Meat Monday’s” and the hard-working, dedicated livestock producers out there-including my hubby and Farmer Dan!

OODLES of NOODLES CHILI BAKE

  • 1 (12 ounce) package wide egg noodles, uncooked
  • 1 lb lean GROUND BEEF
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can chili without beans
  • 1 cup (or more) shredded Cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 13×9 inch casserole or two 8 inch baking pans (you could eat one today and freeze the other!). Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; draining off any fat if necessary. Combine cooked and drained noodles, browned beef, tomatoes and their juices, drained corn, chili and 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese and stir to mix. Top with remaining cheese and bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes until heated through. Serves 8.

Goes great with a small side salad or even some fresh fruit. I picked this one because my hubby loves chili but I don’t really like kidney beans so I’m always looking for a compromise. You could even add some chili powder, onions, or fresh green/red peppers for added taste.

Here it is-precooked!

Here it is-precooked!

by

3 Generations of Farmers

Just wanted to share a picture my sister took on my grandparents farm just west of Harrington. She recently submitted it to the Delmarva Farmer for their annual 2012 photo contest. She took the picture out of the back of the truck as my Pop-Pop (far right), Cody (middle), and Uncle Jimmy (far left) rode on the back of the tailgate. They were moving around equipment while harvesting soybeans.  You can even see the dust rolling behind them.  Pop-Pop told me over the holidays that he liked the picture and said he didn’t even know my sister had taken it. He also mentioned that many people from the community mentioned they saw it and liked it as well.

Uncle Jimmy (far left), Cody (middle), Pop-Pop Bill (far right) sit on the tailgate as my sister gave them a ride to their equipment during the 2012 fall harvest.

Uncle Jimmy (far left), Cody (middle), Pop-Pop Bill (far right) sit on the tailgate as my sister gave them a ride to their equipment during the 2012 fall harvest.

From Jan. 4, 2012, see also “3 Generations of Farming“.

by

From the Mid-Atlantic Farm Credit Blog- A New School Lunch

A blog featured by Mid-Atlantic Farm Credit: http://www.mafc.com/blog/a-new-school-lunch/

Have you heard about any changes to your child’s school lunch? I have and I don’t even have kids. My niece’s have filled me in and they aren’t happy. One says she’s still starving after eating her lunch. The other one says she would rather pack her lunch now. I’ve even heard teachers in Lake Forest School District comment about how terrible the lunches are this year.

The changes are a result of the Healthy Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010. For the first time in over 20 years, the USDA is implementing significant changes to the nutrition standards of National School Lunches and the School Breakfast Programs. Like it or not, this is mandatory for public schools across the country. What are some of the new requirements for 2012? Here are a few:

  • Offer fruit daily (lunch)
  • Offer vegetable subgroups weekly (lunch)
  • Half of grains must be whole grain-rich (lunch and breakfast)
  • Offer only fat-free and low-fat unflavored milk (lunch and breakfast)
  • Calorie counting (see a recent article from the News Journal here)

There are more to be phased in over a 3 year timeline such as sodium servings; however, most changes for school lunch happened this year.

But wait, there’s more! There are MANY optional movements targeting a new and improved school lunch and October was a popular month for their celebration. For example, October was National Farm to School Month. Delaware has been a part of this movement, and recently unveiled a new website for the program. School districts such as Colonial, Seaford, Smyrna, and Woodbridge embraced the idea of Farm to School early on and are dedicated to the movement. Recently WBOC and the Cape Gazette featured Smyrna School District for their revamping of school lunch by incorporating Farm to School. Farm to School allows cafeterias to offer fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers, while still implementing the new nutrition standards. It’s a win, win situation for schools and local farmers!

The National School Lunch Week (NSLW) is another celebration which was held October 15-19. Did your school district plan something special to celebrate? Seaford School District is a good example. With a “School Lunch: What’s Cooking” theme, students toured the kitchen facilities during the week-long celebration. I read this in a recent Sussex County Post article and just last year, I blogged about Seaford achieving silver level status from the Healthier U.S. School Challenge Award.

So, what do I say to my nieces? Well, I know their district has not embraced the Farm to School movement. I think this would help make some of the fruits and veggies they serve more appealing to students. One way to entice students to eat healthy food is to use creative marketing when it comes to menu writing and educational curriculum. Perhaps a way to approach the issue is to start asking questions of the cafeteria manager, nutrition supervisor, or superintendent of the district. Questions to ask could be:

  • What resources or equipment do our cafeterias need to serve a better tasting school lunch, especially with the new nutrition standards?
  • What did our district do to promote National School Lunch Week?
  • Does our district participate in Farm to School? If not, why?

Perhaps you could even send your superintendent or PTA leaders the articles or videos featured in this blog. Show them that a healthy school lunch doesn’t have to taste bad!

by

The Right Way to Advocate

As Farmer Dan told me growing up, “If you’re not gonna do it right, don’t do it at all”. Back then, I probably rolled eyes. But as I’ve matured, I understand what he meant. He was trying to teach me that there is a right way and a wrong way to do everything.

I take that advice seriously and apply it to everything I take on now, including this blog. One of my main concerns about initiating it was that I knew I had to do it right, which means researching topics, proofreading, and posting regularly. But I felt the challenge was worth it because agriculture needs positive advocacy. What I didn’t realize is…….there’s a right way and wrong way to advocate as well.

And I’m still learning the right way to do it. Sometimes I say too much and dig myself a hole as I engage with consumers directly at farmers markets. Sometimes I have a hard time not showing emotion and getting upset when consumers say negative things about farmers. Sometimes I have a hard time not replying to every little comment I see on social media regarding fad diets and claims rejecting animal based foods.  But I’m learning there’s a right way to respond and I’m getting better!

And I’m learning from advocates like Dr. Temple Grandin. Ever heard of her? She is a professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University. She was also the subject of a 2010 Emmy award-winning movie, called “Temple Grandin”, starring Claire Danes who portrays her life struggle with autism. If you have time this winter, trust me and watch this movie! I don’t watch many movies but I have to say this one really hit me hard not only because of its relation to ag but also because I formerly taught students affected by autism at Phillis Wheatley Middle School. So, how does this relate to ag? Well, she overcame autism and developed her talents to become a livestock equipment design handler. She’s designed the facilities for which half the cattle are handled in the U.S., including for firms such as McDonald’s, Burger King, and more. In a recent video just put out by American Meat Institute, she gives an overview of the beef handling and slaughter process and mentions that she’s going to do it the “right way”. She mentions that many undercover videos do not portray the truth and other videos are taken during tours where too many people often scare the cattle into abnormal behaviors. She supports the humane handling of animals and the use of best management practices, which she has obviously spent a lifetime researching specific to cattle. A true advocate for agriculture, she is a great example of “the right way to advocate” for anything in today’s world…..by telling the truth, researching the topic, and learning the best way to portray it.

***Caution: this video is graphic and shows the full slaughter process.

by

A “Buy Local” Wedding: The Chow

Scott said from the beginning that he wanted to have a pig roast reception. I loved the idea because we don’t get to eat fresh pulled pork often and it could potentially make the reception setting less formal. It was also a great way to include Scott in the planning and let him be responsible for a few things! He already had a connection from Maryland, through the beef farm he managed for 7 years. His name is Mr. Dean Ayres and his set up is called “Pork & Deans“. The name may make you laugh but when it comes to cooking BBQ, these guys don’t mess around. Here’s a picture of their trailer, which highlights some of their accolades from cooking competitions in the past.

Mr. Dean Ayres, Pork & Dean’s

There will be 3 kinds of BBQ meats for guest to choose from. I won’t give it all away, but Dean is also cooking all the sides, including sweet corn from Little Wagon Produce!

Although we went outside of the state for main course, I was able to keep everything local for the appetizers, cake, and even one of the favors. We are keeping the appetizers light since I don’t think we will keep guests waiting long. My family is chipping in as my Aunts are helping me make vegetable and cheese trays. Of course, the veggies are coming from LWP!

I didn’t have to think twice about who would make the cake. I called “Paula’s Place for Cakes” in early February and it’s a good thing I did it early because she fills up quick. She doesn’t take more than 2 weddings a weekend and she already had one booked for our weekend. The best thing about Paula is she has a very organized process in place and she listens (it’s not about what she wants or what she likes to do). I brought her pictures of what I liked and she helped me right away through my many questions. Again, I won’t give it all away but there will be two different kinds of cake to choose from, as well as Vanderwende Farm Creamery ice cream!

As for one of the favors, I reached out to Mary Fennemore of Fifer Orchards. I have worked with Mary on the Farm to School Advisory Board and, of course, they are a long time staple of the fruit and vegetable business in Delaware. I recently took my colleagues from Nemours on a field trip to their orchard and retail store, and was pleasantly surprised to learn that they make many baked goods and candy daily. So I knew they could help me with a popular fall treat: candied apples! Apples have just come into season and they are making them a few days before the wedding, so they’ll be fresh. They also have several toppings to choose from such as caramel, nuts, sprinkles, and more.

Again, the whole point is that I tried to buy locally as much as possible beginning with the in-state location and the food. Although very prominent in the food industry, the “buy local” movement can extend beyond food products and the benefits from sales to our local economy are endless. Coming up next: the invitations, flowers, and honeymoon!

***For more information on the businesses mentioned, please see the links provided above or contact me at cvanderwende@hotmail.com .

by

A “Buy Local” Wedding – The Locale

It’s no secret that there is a “Buy Local“ movement sweeping our country, especially when it comes to food. Consumers have embraced the fact that the earlier and closer the fresh food product, the better the taste and quality. But the “Buy Local” movement can extend beyond local food products……

It’s also no secret by now that I’m getting married. I tend not to post things of this sort on social media sites but word usually travels pretty fast regardless of social media, especially in small towns. Since January 1, Scott and I have struggled to plan this monster. I think it’s finally safe to say that we’re in the homestretch since invitations have gone out, my dress is fitted, and the honeymoon is planned. Phew!

But the first decision we had to make was a big one—where to have it? As enticing as a destination wedding was to us, we knew it was not an option if I wanted my family to attend. Farmer Dan isn’t setting foot on a plane! And nor would my grandparents. So that left us with choosing an in-state wedding location.

The ceremony – I knew I wanted to get married in a church but was unsure of which one. I grew up in two local Bridgeville churches and both mean a lot to me. Both are very different venues. At the same time, Scott and I had started attending a local Methodist church that is close to our home. It is also what I consider a very “country” church setting. As we talked more, I realized our current church fit our entire theme very well. It also allows me to get ready for the big day in the comfort of my own home. Plus it means something to both of us, not just me. Part 1 done.

On to the reception…….the beach? Nope, it doesn’t mean much to us and we avoid it for the most part. A local winery? No, because many dates were already taken and they were not open to outside catering. A local fire hall? No, because the one we have a connection with was too small and many have become very pricey with limited options for decorating. I started brainstorming. A tent on the farm? No, because I knew this would be a lot of work for my family the week and day of the wedding (prepping, parking, etc.) and plus I really need to be able to control the environment for my grandparents, all of which are aging. That left us with one more close option: the DE State Fairgrounds. At first we thought their options would be too big, but the more we thought about it, we realized that more space may be better than not enough. Plus, the fairgrounds mean a lot to both of us since we both grew up at the Fair each July and loved participating in 4-H and FFA events there. The icing on the cake: we met at the Fair, in the Exhibit Hall, in March 2009 at the Livestock Expo Fundraiser! Part 2 done and our first big decision was final!

Our choice to “Buy Local” for our wedding started with the very first decision. It also initiated my thought to buy locally as much as possible for this special occasion. This is only happening once for me so why not make the most of it!!! Not only does it support local businesses, but its convenient for me as I try to fit this wedding planning stuff into my already hectic schedule. Did you know for every $1 you spend locally, 45 cents is reinvested locally? This also means more tax dollars go to schools, roads and jobs in your community. Therefore, I’m so glad I can support my local church. They aren’t charging me to use their facility but I will be sure to make a donation back to them, to help them continue to provide for our community. And the DE State Fair has made an effort to support DE and Kent County 4-H, not only with the annual State Fair, but by lending their facilities throughout the year for 4-H events at minimal cost, if any. So, I hope our small contribution for rental of their facilities continues that dedication.

Up next: A “Buy Local” Wedding – The Chow!

by

Farmers’ Markets: Past, Present, Future Part II – From Farm to Table

Happy National Farmers’ Market Week! In honor of the week, here’s my second post from the series, “Farmer Markets: Past, Present, Future“.

Back in July, news editor Gwen Guerke shared my Facebook post in the Milford Chronicle, in which I thanked our Riverwalk Farmer’s Market customers for supporting LWP in the 100 degree heat on July 7. I also shared that we sold out of 2500 ears of corn by 11:30 am. Since then, many customers have commented to me, “Did you really sell 2500 ears?” Yes, we did. But this is normal. We always pick approximately 60 baskets (42 ears each=2520 total ears) for the market each Saturday. It usually lasts until noon time, sometimes 12:30. What was abnormal was the fact that we sold all 60 baskets by 11 am that day, which was most likely because of the heat. Many of our customers choose to beat the heat by coming early, as we open around 9 am. The past couple Saturdays have been this way, as the heat and humidity in DE has not let up. I usually have time to clean up, consolidate baskets, and talk to customers but not when everyone comes out at once!

You may think, “What’s the problem? Isn’t selling out the goal?” It is and I’m not complaining. But Gwen hit the nail on the head with her next statement in the column. She wrote, “Think about this though: before the market opens at 9am Saturday, someone had to go out in the fields and harvest each and every ear. A lot of time and effort goes into the “Farm to Table” concept, so when you’re buying fresh and local fruits and vegetables take the time to thank the people who put in the work to make it happen.”  She’s right. More recently, many customers have been asking me if we picked the corn that morning. I tell them the truth, which is we usually have to pick some the night before and the rest in the morning. Why? Because even though we start picking corn at 5:30 am on Saturday mornings, we can’t get it all picked and packed by 8am, which is when we have to leave to get to Milford. Who’s the we? It’s usually Farmer Dan (my Dad), Breck (my brother), Uncle Doug, and Melissa Baker (a long-time, dedicated employee) and myself. We typically can pick one full basket every 10 minutes, which is about 6 baskets an hour. Therefore, 5 people picking corn can accomplish approximately 60 baskets in 2 hours but keep in mind we have to pick enough to keep our home retail stand going, too, as well the Western Sussex (Seaford) market and other wholesale orders. Additionally, it’s wet, so we wear rain suits to stay dry. There is usually minimal air movement as well, although it’s very peaceful. Here’s a You Tube video to give you an idea of what it’s like in the corn field: http://youtu.be/JknGLcKtGZU. At the beginning, you’ll see Dad actually husk an ear and taste it. He loves to do this and it’s his way of ensuring the planting is good. And here are some pics to share from the corn field:

Love this picture because it shows how much Uncle Doug has to bend over to pick sweet corn. But it also shows how much animals love him. Here Pansy is waiting for him to feed her an ear of corn, too.  🙂

Here Melissa is throwing a full basket on the corn wagon. It helps that she’s a lot taller than the wagon (unlike me!). 🙂

Any volunteers to help us pick this Saturday? If so, see you at LWP around 5:30 am. Otherwise, we’ll just see you at 9 am, with 60 baskets already grown, picked, packed, and delivered straight to you, the consumer, at the Riverwalk Farmers Market! Oh yea–and thanks to Gwen, for understanding and shining light on exactly what is “Farm to Table”!

by

Speak Up on DE Ag Regulations!

Just passing along this information, as it relates to Delaware agriculture. I will be sure to tell my family, especially my dad (Farmer Dan) and grandfather. Smart move by Governor Markell to work on reducing regulatory hurdles for small businesses, as he ramps up his political campaign this fall. I know Rep. Dan Short (R) from Seaford has been a strong advocate for this idea as well. I’ll also be sure to tell my aunt and uncle, who just opened Vanderwende Farm Creamery yesterday, after MANY hurdles and setbacks from state regulations and permits (not related to Dept. of Ag).

Farmers and “ag”vocates, now is your chance to speak up! Here is the link for the info below: http://dda.delaware.gov/ExecutiveOrder36.shtml

***********************************************************************************************************************************

Executive Order 36

Public Notice

On June 14, Governor Jack Markell signed Executive Order 36, launching a statewide program to identify and remove regulatory  hurdles in state government. Executive Order 36 is a  mechanism to review existing regulations and eliminate outdated, inconsistent,  or regulations that no longer serve their purpose. This agency would like  public input on its regulations. After formal comment, the agency will  consider the input received and streamline or change regulations accordingly. A  report on changes goes to the Governor and to the Delaware General Assembly in  June 2012.

As part of the review process, each state agency  will hold public hearings and accept written comments and suggestions on its  regulations.

The Department of Agriculture will hold hearings in each  county:

– Monday, Aug. 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the  University of Delaware’s Carvel Research and Education Center, 16483  County Seat Highway, Georgetown.

– Monday, Aug. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Department of Agriculture headquarters, 2320 South DuPont Highway, Dover.

– Monday, Aug. 20, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the James Gilliam Conference Center, 77 Reads Way, New  Castle.

Comments can also be submitted as part of this process  through Oct. 1, either online or through a printed form.

The printed form can  be mailed to Mark Davis, Deputy Principal Assistant, Delaware Department of  Agriculture, 2320 South DuPont Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901, or submitted via email.