Paul Gramlich
In Town: “I am the editor of the weekly Charleston Express newspaper and have worked there since 1994 although, the newspaper started way back in 1900. Except during my college years, I have always lived in Charleston, Ark., and Sacred Heart Catholic Church here in town has always been my church. Rita, my wife, is the Charleston Public Schools Treasurer and has been so for 27 years.”
In the Country: “I own 135 acres outside of Charleston, 95 of which I inherited from my parents. In order to have more acreage for my cows, I rent another 100 acres from my brother. I run a commercial herd with 31 mommas plus calves and one Black Angus bull that is actually owned by a neighbor. He owns the bull and uses him when he needs him but allows me to use the bull part of the year on my herd. Except for one extra calf recently purchased for my grandson, I run a closed herd which tends to produce fewer health issues. Even though the biggest challenge I face is the cost of feed, I probably feed my animals a little more than necessary and provide plenty of mineral. While different people have different preferences, I use an emasculator because I think it’s easier on the bull calves since I don’t have to worry about flies. Additionally, I raise my own hay and have it baled on shares eliminating the need for expensive equipment while still not having to purchase hay. My father worked closely with the county agent to raise really good grass, and my goals include fertilizing more and increasing my herd size to 50 mommas.
“I use my herd like a savings account and sell at the Fort Smith Livestock Auction when I need a little extra money. Part owner Allen Hales lives nearby in Branch, Ark. Because we are friends, he usually takes my animals to the auction and hand delivers the check which gives us chance to visit.
“My father was a full-time farmer but died young. My mom chose to work and retired from a chicken processing plant while still maintaining their 400-acre spread even though selling it could have made her life much easier. She once told me selling was not even a consideration because she wanted a legacy for her children. The sacrifices that my parents made make my country life possible, and I am very grateful.”
