Seyb Family to be Honored at Iowa State Fair

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Seyb Family

DES MOINES, IA (07/12/2013)(readMedia)-- The Seyb family of Donnellson will be recognized as one of six recipients of The Way We Live Award at the 2013 Iowa State Fair. The family will be honored in an award ceremony on Thursday, August 15, at 10:30 a.m. on the Christensen Farms Stage in the Paul R. Knapp Animal Learning Center. "Nothing Compares" to the Iowa State Fair, set for August 8-18.

The Way We Live Award recognizes industrious Iowa families who demonstrate a daily dedication to animal agriculture and exemplify farm values derived from hard work and a love for the occupation of farming. Entrants were asked to submit a short essay describing how living on a farm and choosing the occupation of farming has shaped their family's life. Six recipients of the award were chosen from a pool of 64 entries representing a variety of commodities and locations throughout Iowa.

Dennis and Liza Seyb not only run their family farm but promote farming, too. Dennis's great grandfather began the farm and then passed it down to his two sons, Darrell and Harvey. Darrell's sons, Dennis and Doug, are third-generation farmers, with their three sisters, Karen, Pam and Karla, who maintain a strong connection and love of the farm.

Dennis and Liza now operate this diversified family farm: a cow-calf heard of 85 cows, farrow-to-finish 90 sows, corn, soybeans, hay and pasture ground. Liza was a "city girl" who came to the farm 35 years ago and has immersed herself in the farm life. Dennis and Liza have two children, Tucker (25) and Hannah (23). Both children were involved with FFA and showing livestock.

The Seybs are true community supporters and are active in county and township events as well as in their church and school district. Dennis and Liza are members of the Lee County and National Pork Producers' Associations. Dennis is one of the Lee County Pork Producers' grill masters, and Liza is also a member of the Pork Safety and Human Nutrition Committee and the National Pork Board. They are often promoting agriculture and pork in many planned and impromptu settings. The Seybs might be best known for their Pig Parties, a celebration complete with a pig roast, canoe trip and live music, thrown every year over Labor Day to honor Dennis and Liza's marriage.

The Seybs were nominated by their friend, Cindy Waters. She says, "Their values and priorities have revolved around the land. They are good stewards, using wise conservation practices and caring for the fields. They are humble in the bounty of their farm, enjoying what they've gained, but always making sure to give to the community."

The Seyb family will receive a prize package including $250 cash, Fair admission tickets, free parking, Fair food tickets, and recognition in the Paul R. Knapp Animal Learning Center during the Fair. The Way We Live Award is sponsored by WHO NewsRadio 1040 and Tractor Supply Company.

"Nothing Compares" to the 2013 Iowa State Fair, August 8-18. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit www.iowastatefair.org.

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