Alfa Friends & Family, Summer, 2011 by Alabama Farmers Federation

Summer 2011

c o n t e n t s 5

Nature Unleashed

What has been described as the worst storm in decades brought out the best in the state as Alabamians pitched in to help rebuild their communities.

Weather Cam

Alfa’s partnership with television stations in Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia provided live weather coverage during recent storms. That information is credited with saving lives.

Member Benefit

Important personal documents were scattered by recent storms and a Farmers Federation member benefit could help you stop thieves from stealing your identity.

Growth Committee

Farmers Federation leaders from across Alabama are working to make

On The Cover Alfa employees deliver a check to a Tuscaloosa homeowner whose home was destroyed in the April 27 tornado outbreak. From left are Senior Vice President of Claims Jerry Johnson, Assistant to the President Al Scott, homeowner Dalton “Buddy” Gaddis and Claims Adjuster Terry Barnes. Photo by Jeff Helms

your membership more valuable than ever.

Fresh Is Best For The First Family

Fresh ingredients are the key to great-tasting meals, including those prepared for Alabama’s First Family by Chef Jim Smith.

DRV NOW TXT L8R

Alfa announces the winners of a video contest it sponsored to help stop distracted driving and save lives of teenage drivers.

Teacher Of The Year

Alfa honored Alabama’s top teacher with the use of a new car she will use during the next year as she travels throughout the state promoting education. F R I E N D S & FA M I LY • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

www.AlfaFarmers.org

M G K P

President’s

n the weeks since deadly tornadoes gashed the Alabama landscape, we have witnessed generosity, compassion and resilience that are truly inspirational. Moments after the storms passed, neighbors rallied together to mourn the lost, help the hurting and pick up the pieces. Farmers used chainsaws, tractors and trucks to clear debris. Churches provided food, water and clothing to victims and volunteers. And thousands of people from across the country sent prayers, money and supplies to those in need. At the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance we began our disaster response by praying for Jerry Newby healing and guidance. Thankfully, Alfa’s catastrophe planning, financial strength and extensive network of local offices allowed us to respond quickly and compassionately. Our agents and customer service representatives—along with the Alfa call center and website—were able to begin taking claims immediately, and our claims adjusters were among the first to see policyholders in the hardest hit areas. We also mobilized our entire claims force and deployed two Mobile Response Units to provide additional support for local offices. Although about one-third of the state was without power, our 249 Alfa service centers were open for business. Only the McFarland Boulevard office in Tuscaloosa was closed the weekend following the storms, and it was back online the following Monday. Alfa has always received high marks from customers for its handling of claims, and we are determined to

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be there for our policyholders when they need us most. Although it will take time to process all claims, Alfa is committed to utilizing every resource available to help policyholders recover as quickly as possible. We prioritized claims to help those with the most urgent needs first, and we were able to begin issuing checks as soon as adjusters were allowed into the impacted areas. Meanwhile, the Alabama Farmers Federation is working with state and federal officials to speed disaster assistance to farmers who suffered tornado losses. Across the state more than 200 poultry houses were destroyed and another 500 were damaged. In addition, hundreds of acres of timber were flattened, miles of fencing were destroyed and tons of debris were scattered in farmers’ fields. We appreciate the quick response to this disaster by the governor, commissioner of agriculture and Alabama’s congressional delegation, and we will continue to work with them to get farmers the help they need. We also appreciate the kindness and generosity shown by Farmers Federation members throughout Alabama as well as Farm Bureaus in other states. Our members have donated thousands of dollars and truckloads of supplies to help those impacted by these storms. They’ve also given countless hours of their time to cut trees, cook meals and haul debris. The tornadoes that ravaged our state April 27 left physical and emotional scars that won’t quickly fade. But the worst storms in our history brought out the best in our members, our organization and our company. As we continue to rebuild, our prayers are with the families who lost loved ones and those whose lives were forever changed by these terrible storms.

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Volume 87, Number 2 ________________________ Debra Davis, Editor Darryal Ray, Associate Editor Mike Moody, Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan, Executive Director Jeff Helms, Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jerry Newby, President, Athens Hal Lee, Vice President/North, Hartselle Dean Wysner, Vice President/Central, Woodland Ricky Wiggins, Vice President/Southeast, Andalusia Jake Harper, Vice President/Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn, Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Joe Dickerson, Lexington Ted Grantland, Somerville Donnie Garrett, Centre Darrel Haynes, Cullman John E. Walker III, Berry Marshall Prickett, Wellington Richard Edgar, Deatsville Dickie Odom, Boligee Garry Henry, Hope Hull Carl Sanders, Brundidge David Bitto, Elberta Sammy Williams, Columbia Debbie Freeland, Grand Bay Ben Haynes, Cullman Friends & Family (ISSN 1522-0648) is published quarterly by the Alabama Farmers Federation, 2108 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, Ala. 36116. For information about member benefits of the Alabama Farmers Federation, visit the website www.AlfaFarmers.org. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Alabama, and additional mailing offices. Printed in U.S.A. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Friends & Family, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001. ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Wendy McFarland, McFarland AdVantage, 133 Bridlewood Lane, Hope Hull, AL 36043. Phone: (334) 652-9080. Email: mcfarlandadvantage@gmail.com. Classified ad and editorial inquiries should be directed to the editor at (334) 613-4410. ADVERTISING DISCLAIMER: Advertisements contained in Friends & Family do not represent an endorsement by the magazine or the Alabama Farmers Federation. EDITORIAL MATTER from sources outside of the Alabama Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for the information and interest of our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Alabama Farmers Federation policies. Publication of material does not necessarily imply its endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation. ADDRESS editorial, advertising and address change correspondence to Friends & Family, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, AL 36191-0001.

www.AlfaFarmers.org A member of American Farm Bureau Federation

F R I E N D S & FA M I LY • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

he worst storm to hit Alabama in recent history brought out the best in the people who live here, according to Jerry Newby, president of Alfa and the Alabama Farmers Federation.

By Debra Davis

Officials believe 328 people were killed across seven states by the band of tornadoes, labeling it the deadliest twister outbreak since the Great Depression. According to the latest count by the National Weather Service, 35 tornadoes hit Alabama on April 27, where the death toll topped 230. Many people were still missing at press time.

A destroyed home in Hackleburg. F R I E N D S & FA M I LY â&#x20AC;˘ S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

www.AlfaFarmers.org

Stories of survival and sadness filled newspapers, TV and radio accounts of the storm. Newby said despite the widespread damage, farmers showed why they are the backbone of rural Alabama. “As soon as the storms were over and our Federation leaders knew their families were safe, they began helping their neighbors and making sure their farm animals were safe,” Newby said. Federation members from throughout Alabama, as well as Farm Bureau members from other states, brought equipment, helped clear debris, built fences and cooked food. Cullman County Federation President Kenneth Neal, whose home was completely destroyed around him by a tornado, immediately began trying to help others despite facing personal loss. Neal, who lives near the Trimble Community in western Cullman County, huddled beneath the stairwell in his basement as the storm flattened his home on top of him. “The floor of the house fell through the basement, and I happened to be in the only spot that I could have possibly survived in,” said Neal, who was still shaken a week after the event. “I am here to tell anyone who will listen: There is a God and there are guardian angels. My guardian angel was definitely watching over me and protecting me that day. “Even with all of this around me, I didn’t have a scratch or a bruise,” said the 77-year-old Neal. The former poultry farmer had two vacant chicken houses used for storage behind his home that were flattened. His 2,000 square-foot brick home was a pile of rubble. Days passed before he began clearing the debris that was once his home.

“I just can’t get started on it right now,” he said a week after the storm. “I can’t explain it, but all this is just worldly things. They aren’t what’s important to me. I can make another life, and I plan to since the Good Lord saw fit to spare me. The most important thing right now is to see that my cattle are cared for.” Neal said his cattle were more traumatized than he was. “There were a few that were hurt, but they will recover,” he said. “We had fences down all over the place, and I’ve still got cows that are missing. But we’re rounding them up and moving them to pastures where the fences are still standing. We’ve already started repairing the fences, and we’ll get things back right eventually. I’m just happy to be here to help get it done.” Marshall County Farmers Federation Board Member Dan Smalley who lives near Guntersville, operates one of the largest poultry farms in the state. Ten of his 15 houses were damaged. Following the storm, dozens of day-old chicks still dazed from the storm scurried among the scraps of tin that littered his farm. “Once I knew my family was okay, I tried to get to the farm,” Smalley said, recalling the early morning storm. “The roads were blocked, the phones wouldn’t work, and I was afraid that my workers were injured or worse. When I was finally able to get here, I was relieved to find out all of my employees were safe.” Twisters that roared through Jackson and DeKalb counties on April 27 have forever changed the landscape there, as well as the minds of residents like Jackson County Federation Board Member Mack Hughes. Hughes and his wife, Rebecca, live in a double-wide modular home in the Pea Ridge Community just across the DeKalb County line. They were at the home of his parents, Frank and Alta Hughes, helping At left, members of the Alabama National Guard were mobilized to provide assistance to storm-ravaged areas; below, Marshall County poultry farmer Dan Smalley sustained damage to his farm.

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F R I E N D S & FA M I LY • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

At right, Marion County Farmers Federation Board Member Warren Williford and Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan in front of Williford’s destroyed business in Hackleburg; above, Alfa Adjuster Lee Lowery discusses a claim with Tuscaloosa policyholder Willie H. Beall; and top, officials clear the streets of a Cullman neighborhood.

clear debris from an earlier storm when a tornado came through late that afternoon. “We all got in the storm pit at Mama and Daddy’s when it came through that afternoon about 6:30,” Hughes said. “Their house wasn’t damaged, but there were lots of fences down all over the place.” But the young couple’s home, only 10 miles away, was completely destroyed. They were able to salvage only a few small mementoes from the debris. “We’re just thankful to be alive,” Hughes said. In northwest Alabama, the tiny town of Hackleburg was torn apart by an EF5 tornado, packing winds in excess of 200 miles per hour. Marion County Board Member Warren Williford remembers huddling with his family in the basement of his daughter’s and son-in-law’s home a few miles from downtown Hackleburg. “When it was over and we drove into town it was the worst thing I’ve ever seen in my life,” Williford said, still tearful as he recalled the events from the previous week. “There is so much destruction; so much loss.” Williford and his family are credited with saving the life of a Mississippi motorist who found himself suddenly in the path of the killer tornado. Driving toward Hackleburg on U.S. Highway 43, the motorist saw the tornado approaching in his rearview mirror. “This fella came speeding up to our house and asked to take shelter with us,” Williford recalled. “He was a total stranger to us, but he said he knew he couldn’t outrun the F R I E N D S & FA M I LY • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

tornado. He could actually see the debris flying off the road behind him. He got in the basement with us and stayed there until the storm ended.” The stranger, who Williford knew only as Mr. Williams, left Mississippi earlier in the day and was headed to Huntsville to carry a generator to his brother, who had lost power in a storm earlier that day. “The day after the storm, Mr. Williams showed back up with his wife and daughter,” Williford said. “He wanted them to meet me and my family. He said he wanted them to see the people who had saved his life.” Stories of survivors continue to surface as the town combs through the rubble. Williford said five days after the storm, recovery workers found a young child, still strapped in a car seat, alive inside an overturned car just off U.S. Highway 43. There was no one else in the car, but the child lived, he said. With only 1,500 residents, it’s hard to find anyone in Hackleburg who wasn’t affected. Entire neighborhoods were flattened; the school was heavily damaged, and the downtown area was in shambles. Williford owns Wiginton Paper Products, which was destroyed in the storm. But even as he sifted through the rubble days after the storm, he was counting his blessings. “My family was spared and I have a place to go home to,” he said. “There are people here who have nothing left. They’ve lost loved ones, their home and their business. But the people of Hackleburg are strong. I think our town will come back and will be stronger than ever.” 7

www.AlfaFarmers.org

Alfa Responds Quickly To Storm-Stricken Areas By Jeff Helms and Debra Davis

urgent needs first and has implemented its catastrophe plan to ensure claims are handled as quickly as possible. “We are committed to using every available resource to help our policyholders recover from these storms,” Johnson said. Alfa Adjuster Lee Lowery who lives in Tuscaloosa was among the first dispatched to hard hit area of his county. The day following the storm, he visited 84-year old Willie H. Beall who has been an Alfa policyholder for decades. “When the storm came through we were in the bathroom in the center of the house,” Beall said. “I could hear the shingles tearing away from the roof and things pounding against the house. It was so scary.” But after the storm, although still shaky, she said she was comforted to know Alfa would be there to help. “Alfa has always been good to me,” she said. “They’ve always come through real good and quick for me, and I appreciate them.” Lowery said helping policyholders like Mrs. Beall keeps him going. “My house wasn’t damaged but the amount of damage in Tuscaloosa was unbelievable,” Lowery said. “When you interact with the policyholders, I feel a connection with them because it’s my hometown. It’s really a sense of satisfaction, knowing you are able to help people who are dealing with this destruction on a firsthand basis.” Alfa used advertising on television; radio, billboards and aerial banners as well as in newspapers to make sure policyholders knew how to file a claim. Within a week of the storm, the company already had received more than 15,000 claims. To report a claim, contact a local Alfa service center, call 1-800-964-2532 or visit AlfaInsurance.com.

lfa Insurance mobilized claims adjusters, deployed mobile response units and extended office hours to better serve policyholders impacted by the deadly tornadoes that roared through Alabama on April 27. Alfa President Jerry Newby said the company’s disaster planning and network of local service centers allowed Alfa to respond quickly to claims. “Alfa is prepared to deliver on our company’s promise to be there when our policyholders need us most,” Newby said. “Our dedicated employees, strong financial base and advance planning make Alfa uniquely prepared to respond quickly and compassionately.” The morning after twisters gashed the Alabama landscape, Alfa began sending additional adjusters into the hardest hit areas. By Saturday, more than 100 adjusters were in the storm-ravaged towns, working alongside hundreds of agents, CSRs and district office employees. The company also deployed its two 38-foot Mobile Response Units and sent gasoline, generators and other supplies to service centers in north Alabama. To expedite claims, CSRs in offices that lost computer connection to the home office developed a “buddy system” with coworkers in south Alabama, who took claims information over the phone and entered it into the system. At the home office, Alfa’s call center and website allowed policyholders to file claims 24 hours a day. Alfa Senior Vice President of Claims Jerry Johnson said the company is prioritizing claims to serve the most

Alfa agents fed policyholders as they filed claims in Hackleburg following the storm. From left are Alfa Agents Jennifer Ward of Double Springs and Terri Robinson of Hamilton, homeowners Roy and Carolyn Holland of Hackleburg and Agent Joyce McLamb of Addison.

www.AlfaFarmers.org

F R I E N D S & FA M I LY • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

Weather Cameras Provided Warnings That Helped Save Lives By Debra Davis

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he tornadoes that ripped through Alabama recently reiterated just how valuable a first-hand view of an approaching storm can be. Alfa Insurance is a sponsor for 75 weather cameras in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi that television meteorologists use to give an up-to-theminute live shot of what’s happening in those locations. In Alabama, they are located from Huntsville to Gulf Shores and many spots in between. Ashley McDonald, chief meteorologist for CBS station WAKA-TV in Montgomery, said she believes the cameras help save lives. The most From left, CBS-WAKA Meteorologists Micha Harris, Marcy Novak and Chief Meteorologist recent example was when tornadoes Ashley McDonald watch the Alfa weather cameras located throughout the state as the April caused catastrophic damage across 27 storm approached. the state April 27. I am on the air, they may switch to counties in Alabama and our com“Radar is good and gives us a a different camera location to give pany and our employees are very good indication of what is going on, our viewers important information involved in those communities,” Hall but nothing replaces actually seeing about what is happening at that very said. “The weather camera sponsorwhat’s happening,” McDonald said. ships are a great partnership we have “It certainly makes it more real to our moment.” Marlene Hall, media director for with the television stations to provide viewers and to us here in the newsAlfa Insurance, said the idea behind an important service to the communiroom. When you can actually see a sponsoring the cameras is that Alfa is ties Alfa Insurance serves. There are tornado coming to your area, you involved in and cares about the com- few things that impact more lives know you need to go to a safe place. munities it serves. every day than the weather, whether The cameras definitely add clarity to “Alfa has offices located in all 67 you are a business owner, housewife what is going on.” or farmer.” Newsrooms can switch to camerThe weather also is a critical part as in locations throughout Alabama Alfa Sky Cam Network of the insurance business because of and in neighboring states Alabama the risks associated with storms, like that also may give the ones that hit the state in April. viewers an indication “I do believe the cameras of weather that may G be approaching their eo make what is happening rg ia more real,” Hall said. “To area. actually see a tornado “Many of the coming into Tuscaloosa storm systems that or through the middle come through our of Cullman was state pass through unbelievable. The Mississippi before destruction was horthey reach us in rific, and there were so west Alabama,” many people killed and McDonald hurting. I do believe said. “So our cameras in Live/On-Air the weather cameras helped Mississippi can give us a very Under Construction save lives by showing the severity of real picture of what is headed Tentative No Coverage the storms that were approaching and our way. We have meteorologists in Not Sponsored By Alfa that more people took cover because our studio who are constantly watchof that.” ing all the cameras and even while Mi

Tupelo

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urvivors of the tornadoes that killed hundreds in the South need to prepare for another threat, this one man-made: Fraudsters often target victims in the aftermath of large-scale natural disasters. The violent storms that ravaged six states in April left thousands homeless and unable to access their personal documents. The tornadoes also scattered confidential personal information including bank and credit card statements and social security cards. This material may have blown miles away never to be recovered. Or it may wind up on a stranger’s front lawn. Members of the Alabama Farmers Federation have free one-on-one access to a fraud specialist with Identity Theft 911. Identity Theft 911 fraud specialists have years of

www.AlfaFarmers.org

experience helping to protect financial, credit and identity data, while maintaining uninterrupted access to financial accounts. Experts with Identity Theft 911 can also help quickly replace important documents. Should a member become a victim of identity theft, specialists with Identity Theft 911 can help by providing one-on-one guidance through

the resolution process and minimize the damage, stress and time lost. For help, call 1-800-392-5705 Ext. 4651 (Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.); all other times call 1-888-285-1499 or visit: www.alfafarmers-IDTheft.org for more details. So, even as survivors rebuild their lives, they face the serious danger of identity theft. Here are some steps victims can take to stay safe: 12

• Protect important information and documents. Whether in a shelter or staying with friends and family, never lose sight of these items. They are the key to a person’s identity—and will be needed to prove identity. • Be proactive and check credit reports by calling 1-877-322-8228 or visiting www.annualcreditreport.com. Consider adding an initial security alert to a credit report, by visiting www. experian.com/fraud/ center.html or by calling 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742). • Ask the post office to hold mail until you’re back home. This will keep thieves from finding sensitive materials left in the mailbox. Identity Theft 911 is just one of many benefits for members of the Alabama Farmers Federation. For member benefits, visit AlfaFarmers. org and click on Benefits & Membership. F R I E N D S & FA M I LY • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

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Growth Committee Aims To Increase Membership By Debra Davis

ptimism and excitement was the tone of the inaugural meeting of the newly formed Membership Growth Committee appointed by Alabama Farmers Federation President Jerry Newby, which met at the Federation home office in Montgomery, March 29. Federation SecretaryTreasurer Steve Dunn of Conecuh County serves as chairman of the committee, which includes 20 other organization leaders from through- From left, Marc Pearson, the Federation’s new membership director, meets with fellow members of the out the state. Dunn said he’s newly formed Membership Growth Committee — Chairman Steve Dunn, Federation Controller Terrie excited about the opportunity Channell, Rex Vaughn, president of Madison County Farmers Federation and Women’s Leadership to work with such a talented Committee Chairman Debbie Freeland of Mobile County. group of people from around your ideas and opinions, and we the state. encourage you to share them “This is a good team of leadopenly as we meet together. No ers who are committed to the idea is bad, and no question is organization, have a passion for Rex Vaughn. . . . . . . . . . . . Madison County out of bounds. The success of it and have a lot of knowledge Jennifer Cruise. . . . . . . . . . Morgan County this committee depends on you about it,” Dunn said. “Our main sharing your thoughts freely.” goal is to ensure that our memWill Gilmer. . . . . . . . . . . . Lamar County In addition to identifying bership feels like it is a part of Randy Gilmore. . . . . . . . . Jefferson County this organization. Whether those areas for membership growth and retention, the committee took members are farm members or Delle Bean. . . . . . . . . . . . . Calhoun County home assignments in preparation policyholders, we want them to Dennis Maze. . . . . . . . . . . Blount County for their next meeting, June 30. know they are important and “Each person is to contact that their membership has value Lamar Dewberry. . . . . . . . Clay County another state Farm Bureau and to them.” Terry Wyatt. . . . . . . . . . . . Shelby County find out what that state is doing The committee will work for membership there,” Dunn closely with Membership Richard Edgar. . . . . . . . . . Elmore County said. “So when we meet again, Director Marc Pearson, who Andy Wendland . . . . . . . . Autauga County we will have 21 other ideas to formerly worked in Alfa’s Marketing Services Department. consider. Pat Buck. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sumter County “I think we’ll see some results The committee will report its Peggy Walker . . . . . . . . . . Tuscaloosa County with so many good people all findings and recommendations working on this committee. I’m to the Federation state board of Shep Morris. . . . . . . . . . . . Macon County optimistic about what we can directors. John Dorrill. . . . . . . . . . . . Pike County accomplish.” Newby said the committee Dunn said ideas about memmembers have an important task Sammy Williams. . . . . . . . Henry County bership growth and retention, as ahead of them. Gloria Jeffcoat. . . . . . . . . . Houston County well as member benefits, aren’t “Membership is the lifeblood just limited to the committee, of our organization,” Newby Meador Jones . . . . . . . . . . Marengo County however. said as he addressed committee Richard Holladay . . . . . . . Lowndes County “We will welcome any recommembers at their first meeting. mendations from our members “It sustains our programs and Sammy Gibbs . . . . . . . . . . Escambia County and other county leaders,” he gives us strength as the voice of Debbie Freeland . . . . . . . . Mobile County said. Alabama agriculture. We value

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By Debra Davis

hen chef Jim Smith plans a meal for Gov. Robert Bentley and First Lady Dianne Bentley, he’s like an artist who takes color to canvas to create a masterpiece. Using the copious variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and locally grown meats available in Alabama, he treats each meal for Alabama’s first family as a one-of-akind work of art. Although Mrs. Bentley said she was responsible for preparing the meals for her family before her husband was elected governor, she said when she moved to Montgomery she knew her time would be limited for cooking. Mrs. Bentley said Jim cooks many of their favorite foods, but makes them different by preparing them in new ways. “I worked hard as a culinary professional for years, and it was a big move to leave the restaurant business,” said Smith, 33. He first

met the Bentleys through his wife, Angi, who worked as Gov. Bentley’s campaign manager. Mrs. Bentley first asked Smith for advice of what she could expect regarding meals and entertainment at the mansion. From there, their relationship grew and he eventually applied for and was hired as chef after going through an extensive interview process. But Smith’s career really began when he was still a teenager in Troy, Ala. “I started working in a restaurant when I was 15 because I thought it would be a lot of fun,” Smith said. “When I decided to make it my career, I made up my mind that I would go into the nicest restaurant I could find and try to get a job there.” That first job was as a bus boy at Bottega, an upscale Italian restaurant in Birmingham. Before long, he moved up in the business to waiter and bartender.

“That gave me a passion for food and steered me into the kitchen,” he said. “I worked there four-and-a-half years, and I learned something new every day.” After his experience at Bottega, Smith went to culinary school and later worked at Dyron’s Lowcountry in Mountain Brook. “Each job I had helped make me a better chef,” he said. “I can look at every aspect of the meal from taking the order, cooking it, serving it and cleaning up the dishes.” So the Bentleys’ invitation to serve as chef of the governor’s mansion combined just the right ingredients for Smith to leave the restaurant business. “My job is mostly Monday through Friday, depending on the governor’s schedule,” Smith said. “I usually prepare lunch for eight to 10 people every day. That includes the governor, first lady and the staff here. I also take care of meals or food for parAlabama Farmers Federation Horticulture Division Director Mac Higgingbotham, left, recently accompanied Chef Jim Smith to Oakview Farms in Elmore County to purchase fresh hydroponic lettuce from farm owner Joe Lambrecht.

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F R I E N D S & FA M I LY • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

ties or receptions held here at the mansion. That can range from hors d’oeuvres to a seated meal for 30 people.” Mrs. Bentley usually leaves the menu up to Smith, he said, but if she requests something special he’s happy to oblige. “The Bentleys love shrimp – and we serve Gulf shrimp,” he said. “And we buy as much of the fruits and vegetables as we can from local farmers.” His pantry also includes items such as fresh ground corn meal and flour from local granaries. Smith said he tries to get to know the local farmers and fishermen who grew or caught the food he is preparing. “Fresh ingredients are so important when you’re preparing any meal,” he said. “Having good ingredients can help you overcome a lot, even when your skill level is a challenge. And when people ask me the secret to being a good cook, I tell them not to be afraid of trying something new.” Making some-

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thing new is one of the things that Smith is good at. Since he began his job as mansion chef in January, he hasn’t prepared the same meal twice. “I have developed a lot of my own recipes over the years,” he said. “When I look at….say a rack of lamb, I may look at dozens of recipes and see what all they have in common. Then I might take a little from each of them to make my own recipe.” As for the first family’s favorite dish, Smith said he’s not sure. Sarah Crosby, who has worked at the mansion for 17 “Sometimes the years, assists Smith in the kitchen. governor will say to me, ‘Jim, this is the best through the term of former Gov. thing you’ve ever made,’” Smith Don Siegelman and two years for said. “I know they love shrimp, so former Gov. Bob Riley. I do prepare a lot of dishes using “She knows where every dish, Gulf shrimp. The Bentleys are fork, spoon, glass and serving piece some of the nicest, most caring and is in this place,” Smith said motionthoughtful people you could ever ing around the large kitchen. “And work for.” she is a wonderful server and is so A special ingredient Smith hospitable. She makes everyone feel has for most every dish prepared right at home here.” at the governor’s mansion is the So what does a top chef do “spice” added by his assistant, Sarah when he’s not cooking meals for Crosby, who has worked at the dignitaries? mansion for 17 years. “I enjoy eating out and going She began her career to different restaurants,” he said. “I there with former like to see what other chefs do and Gov. Fob James, to try different things. At least two worked times a week, I try to cook for my wife. She deserves it, and I especially love cooking for her.”

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hef Jim Smith shares some of his favorite recipes he prepares for the first family in this month’s Country Kitchen. For additional recipes and a list of local farms where he purchases fresh ingredients, visit AlfaFarmers.org and click on Country Kitchen under the News & Events link.

PAN SEARED GULF RED SNAPPER WITH OAKVIEW FARMS GRANARY CORN GRITS AND ALABAMA VEGETABLE RATATOUILLE ratatouille. Peel the tomatoes. (Cut an X in the top of each tomato and remove the core. Place into boiling salted water for 15-30 seconds until skin loosens, then plunge into an ice bath. The skin should easily pull away from the flesh.) Cut each tomato into quarters and remove the seeds. Dice into 1/4-inch pieces. Dice the pepper, onion and zucchini into 1/4-inch pieces. In a large cast iron skillet heat the olive oil, add the diced peppers and onions and let soften for two minutes. Add the eggplant and zucchini and let cook for 2-4 minutes. Add the tomatoes, thyme sprig and deglaze with the vegetable stock. Let stew for 2-4 minutes. Finish with parsley, torn basil and salt and pepper to taste. (Remove thyme sprig before serving)

Grits 5 cups whole milk 1 cup grits 1 tablespoon butter Salt and white pepper to taste

In a heavy saucepan, pour grits into 4 cups of salted milk, then stir and skim chaff from the surface. Bring to a boil and reduce to simmer while constantly stirring. Let simmer for 30 minutes, paying close attention not to burn the bottom of the pan. Add remaining milk to your preference to adjust thickness. Finish with butter, salt and white pepper.

Ratatouille 1 eggplant 2 zucchini ½ red onion 3 large tomatoes 1 sweet bell pepper (red, yellow or orange) Chopped parsley Thyme sprig Basil 1/4 cup vegetable stock 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper to taste

4 Gulf red snapper fillets (with or without skin) Salt and white pepper to taste 1 teaspoon olive oil

Heat a skillet. Add oil. Season the snapper. Place snapper in the skillet, skin side down, and gently press down on the fillet to make sure all the skin is touching the pan. The skin will naturally release when the skin is almost crisp. Make sure the skin is crispy before turning the fish. Turn the fish. Finish in the oven if necessary.

Cut eggplant into a 1/4-inch dice, salt the eggplant and spread onto a lined pan and let the salt leach out the bitterness (20-30 minutes). Wipe off excess salt with paper towel before adding to

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GRILLED BAYOU LA BATRE SHRIMP WITH CREAMED CORN PUREE AND ROAST SPRING ONION Creamed Corn Puree 5 ears of corn 3 cups heavy cream salt and pepper to taste

Clean the corn, remove the husk and silk. Cut the corn from the cob and reserve both. Place kernels and cream in a heavy sauce pot. Using a spoon, scrape the cobs over the pot to extract the starch. Simmer for 30 minutes. Using a food processer or blender, puree the mixture and season to taste. Strain mixture.

Roast Spring Onion 6 spring onions 2 tablespoon olive oil salt and pepper to taste

ROAST FUDGE FARMS PORK CHOP WITH THYME ROASTED POTATOES AND SUNBURST SQUASH PAN SAUCE

Preheat oven to 375°F. Trim the tops off the spring onions and reserve. Halve the onions. In a large mixing bowl toss the onions in the olive oil and salt and pepper. Place on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper and roast for 15-20 minutes.

Thyme Roasted Potatoes 1 pound red potatoes 2 tablespoons picked fresh thyme 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and white pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 425°F. Quarter the potatoes and place in cool water to prevent oxidation. Drain the potatoes and place in a large mixing bowl. Add the thyme, oil and salt and pepper. Place the potatoes on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Roast for 12-15 minutes until potatoes are cooked through.

Grilled Gulf Shrimp 2 pounds Gulf shrimp Salt and white pepper to taste Oil

Oil the grill, season the shrimp with salt and white pepper and grill.

Pork Chop and Pan Sauce Pork Chops 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon chopped shallot 2 whole baby squash, sliced ½ cup white wine 3 tablespoons butter 1 teaspoon chopped parsley Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 425°F. Heat a large skillet. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear the pork chops in oil on both sides making sure not to burn the bottom of the pan. Place the chops on a lined sheet pan and transfer to the oven to finish cooking. Using the first skillet, place the shallots in the pan and sauté for two minutes. Season the sliced squash and sauté for 2 minutes. Deglaze the pan with the white wine and let reduce by half. Reduce heat and mount the butter into the reduction. Finish sauce with parsley.

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Autauga County Operation Named Alabama Farm Of Distinction By Jeff Helms

diversified row crop and cattle operation in Autaugaville, Ala., was named the state’s 2011 Farm of Distinction during the Alabama Farm-City Awards Luncheon April 11 in Birmingham. As this year’s winner, Andy and Dawn Wendland of Autauga Farming Company will represent Alabama in the Swisher Sweets Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year contest Oct. 18-20 in Moultrie, Ga. Wendland said he’s honored to be recognized, but he was quick to share the credit with employees and family members who have helped tend the farm’s crops and livestock over the last 100 years. “I feel fortunate to be that third generation that’s kind of taken hold of the reins. Having really good people is a real big part of it, too. That’s been a real asset to us,” Wendland said. Autauga Farming Company has about 2,500 acres of cotton, corn, soybeans and wheat, as well as about 750 beef cows. The Wendlands were founding members of Autauga Quality Cotton Association, which has grown to become one of the nation’s leading cotton marketing cooperatives -- serving 2,000 producers in nine states. They also joined forces with neighbors to form the Producers Feeder Cattle Sale, which secures premium prices by marketing uniform truckloads of cattle. Despite good prices for cotton and cattle this year, Wendland said skyrocketing production costs are forcing farmers to find ways to be more efficient. One way the Wendlands have reduced costs is by transitioning their farm almost entirely to conservation tillage. They also are using GPS guidance and swath control to prevent overuse of fertilizer and crop protection materials. As Alabama’s Farm of Distinction winner, the Wendlands received a John Deere Gator donated by

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Andy and Dawn Wendland, seated, accept prizes for the Alabama Farm of Distinction from the sponsors. From left are Kenneth Williams of Snead Ag Supply, Jay Hamlett and Lynne Morton of TriGreen Equipment, Lester Killebrew of SunSouth, the Wendlands, Jerry Newby of the Alabama Farmers Federation and Grace Smith of Alabama Farmers Cooperative. SunSouth, Snead Ag and TriGreen Equipment dealers in Alabama. They also received a $1,250 gift certificate from Alabama Farmers Cooperative, redeemable at any of its member Quality Co-Op stores. The Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Health presented the Wendlands an engraved farm sign, and they also will receive a $2,500 cash award and an expense-paid trip to the Sunbelt Agricultural Expo. The Swisher Sweets Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year will receive $14,000, plus several other prizes. While Wendland admits farming can be difficult, he feels blessed to work at a job he loves and to be able to raise his kids in a wholesome environment. “I guess it’s just a challenge in today’s environment to be efficient and productive and economical, and all those things that we try to be,” he said. “It’s a challenge, but I enjoy doing what I do. I’m always thinking about it and always trying to improve what we do.” Wendland is a leader in the Alabama Farmers Federation and 22

Alabama Cattlemen’s Association. He and Dawn are members of the Church Street United Methodist Church. They have five children, Katie, Drew, Will Howard, Dan and Emma. Five other finalists also were honored during the program, which was held in conjunction with the Alabama Farmers Federation State Women’s Leadership Conference. They were Bud Hopson of Creekstand Catfish Farm in Lee County, Webb and Joy Thornhill of Thornhill Farm in Jackson County, Phillip and Nancy Garrison of GoldVine Farm in Cullman County, Andy and Anne Sumblin of Andy Sumblin Farm in Coffee County and Roy and Becky Jordan of Landrum Creek Farm in Marengo County. Each finalist received a $250 gift certificate from Alabama Farmers Cooperative. The Farm-City Committee of Alabama presents the Farm of Distinction Award annually. Farm-City Week is observed nationally each year the week before Thanksgiving as a way to help bridge the gap between rural and urban residents. F R I E N D S & FA M I LY • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

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Winners Announced In The Alfa™ DRV NOW TXT L8R Online Video Contest S

tudents from Coffee and Jefferson counties were awarded cash and prizes May 3 as the winners of the Alfa Insurance® DRV NOW, TXT L8RTM video contest. Hal Davis of Enterprise High School took top honors in the competition, which encouraged high school students to produce videos that educate their peers and adults about the dangers of texting and driving. Jordan Dewitt and Conlan McGuff of McAdory High School in McCalla placed second; and Jonathan Ashworth, Daniel Tuggle and John Caraway of Oak Mountain High School in Birmingham placed third. “I felt that if the goal was to grab the attention of youth, that a dramatic and serious commercial would not be as effective as a somewhat humorous video — even though it is a very serious subject,” said Davis. The Enterprise senior’s video features Davis dismissing a friend’s warning to stop texting and driving, noting that “this isn’t the worst thing I’ve ever done while driving.” The statement is followed by scenes of

Davis engaged in a variety of outrageous activities while behind the wheel. His comical flashback is interrupted by a minor accident immediately after he asks his friend, “What’s the worst that could happen?” As the first-place winner, Davis received an iPad®2 and $1,500 from Alfa. Enterprise High School also received a $1,500 cash award. Davis’ video was selected from among more than 150 entries that were submitted between Jan. 1 and March 31. The winning videos, along with educational information about texting and driving, are available at www.AlfaDriveSmart.com. Partnering with Alfa to promote the contest were the Alabama State Department of Education and the Alabama Independent School Association. “At Alfa, we recognize that distracted driving is a growing concern,” said Alfa President Jerry Newby. “Research has shown that our policyholders and members support efforts to curb cell phone-related accidents. Based on their comments, we decided to launch the Alfa Drive Smart campaign and the DRV NOW, TXT L8R video contest. “Knowing how important this safety issue is, we called our friends, State Superintendent Dr. Joe Morton and AISA Executive Director Don Oswald, and they eagerly agreed to help promote the contest,” Newby added. “By working with the schools, we were able to give high school students across the state an opportunity to showcase their creativity while communicating important information Hal Davis of Enterprise High School took top honors in the competition, which encouraged high school students to produce videos that educate their peers and adults about the dangers of texting and driving. From left are Herman Watts, Alfa executive vice president of Marketing; Davis; and Carol Golsan, senior vice president of Marketing Services.

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communications with Alfa, said the video contest showcased the talent of Alabama students. “The creativity and production value of the videos is impressive. It is obvious that students not only have embraced new technology, but they also understand its potential for advocacy and marketing,” Helms said. “Some of the videos will stir your emotions, while others will tickle your funny bone. We are pleased that so many students took the time to contemplate the dangers of texting and driving and share their creative messages with friends and family. Since all of the entries are posted to YouTube, we hope other students and adults will view the videos and share them with friends through Facebook Second place in the contest went to students from McAdory and Twitter. If this program helps save High School in McCalla. From left are McAdory video about texting production class sponsor Anthony Cooper, Alfa Executive Vice one life, it will be a success.” According to the National Highway and driving.” President of Marketing Herman Watts, students Jordan Dewitt Traffic Safety Administration, 20 percent As the and Conlan McGuff and Senior Vice President of Marketing of crashes that cause injury involve some second-place Services Carol Golsan. sort of distracted driving. The Insurance winner, Dewitt Institute for Highway Safety reports and McGuff that drivers who use hand-held devices are four times received an iPod® touch and $1,000. McAdory High as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure School also received a $1,000 cash award. themselves. And, the University of Utah found that The students’ video uses multiple camera angles and using a cell phone while driving, whether it’s hand-held quick edits to dramatically tell the story of a little girl or hands-free, delays a driver’s reactions as much as innocently jumping rope in a driveway when a driver, having a blood alcohol concentration at the legal limit who veers off the road while texting, strikes her. The 40-second video is a stark reminder of the consequences of .08 percent. For more information about the dangers of texting of distracted driving. The team from Oak Mountain High School received and driving and to view the winning videos from the an iPod® nano and $750 for third place. The school also DRV NOW, TXT L8R contest, visit www.AlfaDriveSmart.com. received a $750 cash award. In the video by the trio of With more than a million policies in force, Alfa Ashworth, Tuggle and Caraway, a teenage boy receives and its affiliates provide insurance and other financial a text message while driving and reaches for his phone. The scene is followed by a flashback in which the main services in 12 states. Visit www.AlfaInsurance.com or call 1-800-964-2532. character rescues his younger brother from a distracted driver. As the flashback ends, the video shows the boy pulling his older brother’s hand away from the phone, potentially reversing the roles of savior and victim. Suspenseful music and the use of both color and black-and-white photography add to the drama of the video. Alfa plans to distribute the winning entries to driver education classrooms throughout the state and to television stations as public service announcements. Jeff Helms, director of public relations and Students from Oak Mountain High School placed third in the contest. From left are John Caraway, Executive Vice President of Marketing Herman Watts, Daniel Tuggle, Jonathan Ashworth and their teacher, Kathy Leaver.

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Alfa Awards Auto To Alabama’s Teacher Of The Year By Debra Davis

labama’s 2011-2012 Teacher of the Year, Dr. Gay F. Barnes, a first-grade teacher at Horizon Elementary School in the Madison City School System, received a year’s use of a new automobile courtesy of Alfa Insurance Co. and the Alabama Farmers Federation during a ceremony at the Alfa home office in Montgomery May 12. Alfa President Jerry Newby presented Barnes Alabama’s Teacher of the Year, Dr. Gay Barnes of Horizon Elementary School in Madison, received a new car the keys to a 2011 courtesy of Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation. From left are Federation Executive Director Paul Chevrolet Impala Pinyan, Dr. Joseph Morton, Barnes, Alfa President Jerry Newby and Alfa Executive Vice President of Marketing as part of her award Herman Watts. for being named the state’s top teacher. tions to the Teacher of the Year “I still love to learn new things, State Superintendent of Education Program. and I love teaching now as much as Dr. Joseph B. Morton made the “For years, Alfa Insurance has I loved teaching my first class over announcement of Alabama’s Teacher shared our vision of acknowledging 20 years ago,” she said. “My greatest of the Year during an awards ceremo- and celebrating the best and brightest contributions and accomplishments ny Wednesday evening that honored in Alabama education,” Morton said. center on my unwavering committhe final four candidates “Alfa’s commitment to supporting the ment to my students who are strugfor the honor. Alabama Teacher of the Year gling. I have a passion and a gift for Newby said teachers program has been unwavering helping these students succeed.” like Barnes are the key and, as always, is This is the 15th year Alfa has to Alabama’s future. greatly appreciat- presented an automobile to the “As Alabama’s ed. This year, as state Teacher of the Year. During Teacher of the in years past, the presentation, Alabama Farmers Year, Dr. Barnes Alfa continFederation Executive Director Paul will have the ues to express Pinyan announced that the insurance opportunity to its support for the Teacher of the Year car will be inspire thousands for those paid for by the Federation. of teachers, parwho inspire Barnes will spend the majority of ents and community learning, spark the school year serving as the state leaders as an ambassaimaginations and spokesperson for education, presentdor for education. Alfa ultimately mold the ing workshops, speaking to various and the Alabama Farmers minds that will carry groups and representing education Federation appreciate the Alabama forward.” and the teaching profession. By winimportant role she and all teachBarnes said she was born ning Alabama’s Teacher of the Year, ers play in the lives of our children,” to be a teacher, adding that her she automatically becomes the state’s Newby said. “learning seed” was planted by her candidate for National Teacher of the Morton praised Alfa’s contribumother early in her life. Year.

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water garden can become a big project because of itchen the maintenanceCountry to keep it clean, but is well worth it if you have time to clean it out once a year. An edging of stone, a backdrop of shade-loving plants, and a splashing fountain will turn a hole in the ground into a garden oasis. An easier way to bring in the soothing sound Market lace of splashing water is to create a fountain from a large pot. This is where it is important to have an electrical outlet to power a pump in your water feature that keeps the water flowing. The splash is soothing, and the flow keeps the mosquitoes from breeding in it. You can find many plans online for turning a big container into a fountain, or you can buy a garden fountain all ready to go. Either way, the sound of water just makes you feel cooler. If your garden is sunny, make your own shade. Even a sunny lot usually has a shady spot on the north side of the house where the house casts its shadow. Coupled with shade structure or patiosized trees such as a full-sized Japanese maple, you can create a shady retreat in almost any spot on your lot. A good garden center can help you select the proper trees. Beware of those that drop blooms Shade trees and lush foliage if that would annoy you heighten the senses to nature’s on a patio. If you enjoy gardenair conditioning. ing, the nearby bed is a great place to create a shade border with a mix of shade loving annuals and perennials. When choosing plants, don’t let shade intimidate you. Some gardeners feel like things don’t grow in the shade, but the truth is far from that. You can enjoy flowers, textural contrasts and leafy color in the shade. For example, elephant’s ear, begonia, ferns, plectranthus, impatiens, hosta and coleus are just a few that will combine well in the shade. If you don’t enjoy piddling with plants, keep the planting super simple with a mass of ground covers such as periwinkle or liriope that you can just trim back once a year in late winter. Also add a few shrubs with fragrant flowers such as gardenia and tea olive. So, don’t let summer run you indoors. We are blessed to live in a warm climate. Create a spot to enjoy it. ______________________________ Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

By Lois Chaplin

alking along the cool of a deep woods creek in summer heightens your senses to nature’s air conditioning. Professional landscape designers use the same landscape elements to create spots in a garden that make you feel a bit cooler in summer. You can create a little of the same in your yard with the use of shade, water and lush foliage. The easiest way is to start with a spot under a tree. Is there a shady spot in your landscape where you can run some electricity? That helps with two things: creating a breeze and the sound of water. An outdoor fan will blow away summer’s greatest outdoor detractors: mosquitoes. At my house, we place fans in strategic places on the deck to blow the pests away. On hot nights, it makes us cooler, too. I’ve seen locations where an arbor over the seating area provided both shade and a spot from which to hang outdoor ceiling fans and blow pests away. A refreshing nook in your shady backyard can include a garden pond or water feature. Even a small, pre-fab

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Ag Literacy A barn bookcase built by the Good Hope Agriscience Department that was sponsored by the Cullman County Women’s Leadership Committee and books about agriculture sponsored by Cullman County Board members will rotate throughout Cullman County schools to help promote agriculture literacy and awareness with students and teachers. From left are Cullman County Farmers Federation Board Member and Good Hope High School agriscience teacher David Bice, County Women’s Leadership Committee Chairman Nancy Garrison, County Women’s Leadership Committee Member Pat Hicks and County Federation President Kenneth Neal.

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Alfa Honors Three Top Educators in Alabama

o demonstrate support of excellence in education and reward exceptional educators across the state, Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation honored two teachers and one principal with recognition and a check for $1,000 in April, May and June. Their schools received matching contributions. Janie Mohajerin, an English

teacher at Georgia Washington Junior High School in Montgomery, was recognized as teacher of the month in April for her ability to positively motivate her students and fellow teachers. She provides incentives for good behavior and character such as dances, board game parties, trips to the movie theater and ice cream parties.

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“Not only do I motivate within my classroom, but within the grade level and through collaboration with other teachers as well,” Mohajerin said. Kristie Williams, a literary coach and reading teacher at L.M. Smith Middle School in Birmingham, was named teacher of the month in May. She builds her curriculum around current events, believes curriculum should be as hands-on as possible and has served on several committees that have helped improve the school’s literacy rate. “Students need to connect what they are learning to something in the real world and be able to see the significance of learning it,” Williams said. Dr. Claudia Styles, principal of Legacy Elementary School in Madison, was June’s principal of the month. Popular for creating a unique learning environment, Styles and her staff emphasize experiencebased learning techniques that focus on student responsibility. Legacy Elementary is also home to an outdoor learning laboratory, a half-acre, fully stocked pond that was named the Best Environmental Education Program in Alabama. Throughout 2011, Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation are honoring one outstanding teacher from each of Alabama’s eight state board districts, two principals and two private school teachers. Application information is available under Alfa Teacher of the Month in the Ag Links section of AlfaFarmers.org.

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Alabama Soybean Producers Help Sponsor ‘Time Well Spent’ By Debra Davis

he Alabama Soybean Producers, a division of Alabama Farmers Federation, is partnering with the Alabama Farmers Cooperative by sponsoring a portion of AFC’s weekly television show Time Well Spent, hosted by Jim Allen and Grace Smith. The many uses of soybeans will be highlighted during the Soybean Producers’ segment of the show, and is being paid for with producer checkoff funds. The shows are filmed and produced by Federation Broadcast Relations Director Kevin Worthington. Time Well Spent is broadcast on RFD-TV each Friday at 9 p.m. and Saturdays at 12:30 p.m. In addition to promoting the many uses of soybeans, the show will feature segments on Alabama producers who last year grew soybeans on 350,000 acres in the state.

Soybean Producers Chairman Jeff Webster of Madison County said he is excited about the exposure the show will provide. “This is a good way to get the

message out about how the soybeans produced in our state contribute to the overall farm economy,” Webster said. “High-protein soybeans provide the basis of the diet for our state’s poultry, pork, beef and aquaculture industries. It is one of the most versatile crops we grow in Alabama.” Federation Soybean Division Director Steve Guy said the television show is part of an overall promotion plan to increase awareness of how important soybeans are to the U.S. economy. The United Soybean Board, funded by producers’ checkoff dollars, has launched a national campaign aimed at increasing awareness of the many uses of soybeans. “The stories featured on Time Well Spent will complement the printed advertising the Alabama Soybean Producers initiated this year,” Guy said. “Consumers are amazed at the versatility of soybeans and at just how many items contain ingredients made from soybeans.”

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By Debra Davis

utism is a big part of who Dr. Temple Grandin is, but the internationally known animal scientist said it doesn’t “define” who she is. She said she considers herself a teacher above all else. Grandin was at Auburn University recently and spoke to students and faculty about her autism and the importance of recognizing and encouraging different kinds of “thinkers.”

www.AlfaFarmers.org

“It takes all kinds of minds working together to really get things done,” said Grandin, who is the subject of an Emmy Award winning movie about her life called Temple Grandin. Grandin didn’t speak until she was 4, but a determined mother and teachers who recognized her different way of thinking helped her realize that she could learn. “I am a total photo-realistic, visual thinker,” she said. “Most people who are visual thinkers don’t see things the way other people do. People like me learn much better from hands-on experience instead of from reading or listening to someone talk. We need to visualize what we are learning, whereas there are some people who think in patterns and they may be really good at math or engineering. But the world needs all kinds of people working together to get things done.” Grandin spoke often about the need for America to re-evaluate occupations that have moved away from getting their hands dirty. “Programs like FFA and 4-H are so very important, and I’m absolutely shocked at the funding cuts being made to those,” she 32

said. “School officials are taking so many of the hands-on classes out of the schools, like woodshop, auto mechanics, welding, music and art. Those are some of the classes where the kids are a little geeky or may have a touch of autism, but they can really excel there because they can work with their hands. They can turn those classes into a really good career.” Young people need the exposure to vocational training, including those involving agriculture, she said. “One of the reasons I went into working with livestock is when I was 15, I had a chance to go out and visit my aunt’s ranch,” Grandin said. “You’ve got to be exposed to different industries and things in order to get interested in it. If I hadn’t gotten exposed to cattle out on my aunt’s ranch, I would not have gotten interested in it.” Today’s public is far removed from what really happens on a farm and often times when they are exposed to agriculture, it is presented in a negative light, she said. “Alabama has a lot of poultry farms, nurseries and cattle, and we need to get kids out working on them to get excited about going into those businesses,” she said. “There’s a hunger to get back in touch with agriculture and the land. You see it with the increased interest in buying local food, organic food and natural food. That’s a good thing. But we need to expose them before they are grown and have already made a career choice. That’s why programs like 4-H and FFA are so important.” F R I E N D S & FA M I LY • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

AU Meats Lab Manager Barney Wilborn, left, discussed Auburn University’s meats lab and livestock handling facilities with Dr. Temple Grandin, center, and Dr. Wayne Green, head of Auburn’s animal science department, right.

Grandin said farmers need to do a better job of showing the world how they care for their land and animals. She said some major farms now have video cameras that stream live to the Internet so consumers or anyone else can see what is happening there. “If you would squirm to show a video of your farm to your wedding guests, then maybe you need to be changing what you’re doing and how you’re doing it,” she said. More than half the cattle in North America are handled in humane systems Grandin designed. Although she is a big proponent of humane treatment for animals, she admittedly is a meat eater and has no intentions of changing that. F R I E N D S & FA M I LY • S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

“I feel very strongly that we owe animals a decent life,” she said. She has written several books, including a bestseller she wrote with Catherine Johnson titled Animals in Translation – Creating The Best Life For Animals. Other books she has written include Livestock Handling and 33

Transport, Genetics and the Behavior of Domestic Animals, and Improving Animal Welfare: A Practical Approach. Grandin has produced several DVDs that include animal handling demonstrations, and many of her demonstrations can be found on YouTube. She also has written books on autism, including Thinking In Pictures. Links to her books and videos are available at her website, Grandin.com. Although Grandin has become famous by using her unique perspective and way of thinking to revolutionize the livestock industry, she says she doesn’t want to be remembered for her autism. “I want to be remembered as a teacher,” she said. www.AlfaFarmers.org

Classified Facts For just $2 per word your classified ad in Friends & Family reaches 340,000+ subscribers each quarter. So if it’s a recipe, service or an item for sale, let Friends & Family help. CLOSING DATE: Ads must be received by the 10th day of the month prior to publication (Ex: Fall issue closes Aug. 10). Dates for publication are Spring (March), Summer (June), Fall (September) and Winter (December). Ads received after closing will automatically run in the next available issue unless notified. No changes may be made after closing. Minimum 10 words per ad. PRE-PAYMENT REQUIRED FOR ALL ADS. No fax or phone orders. Cash or credit cards accepted. Phone 1-800392-5705, ext. 4410 for more details. Send your ad with payment, payable to Alabama Farmers Federation, to: Friends & Family Classified P.O. Box 11000 Montgomery, AL 36191-0001

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