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VOLUME 40, NUMBER 1

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

JANUARY 2015

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Debra Davis, Editor Mike Moody, Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan, Executive Director Jeff Helms, Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell, President, Stanton Rex Vaughn, Vice President/North, Huntsville Dean Wysner, Vice President/Central, Woodland George Jeffcoat, Vice President/Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper, Vice President/Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn, Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn, Hillsboro Paul Looney, Athens Phillip Thompson, Scottsboro Don Allison, Arley Joe Roberts, Fayette Dell Hill, Alpine Richard Edgar, Deatsville Dan Robertson, Uniontown Garry Henry, Hope Hull Carl Sanders, Brundidge Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Fred Helms, Dothan Cheryl Lassiter, Silas Garrett Henry, Hope Hull

In This Issue

Neighbors (ISSN 0162-3974) is published monthly by the Alabama Farmers Federation, 2108 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, Alabama 36116 or (334) 288-3900. For information about Alabama Farmers Federation member benefits, visit the website www.AlfaFarmers.org. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Alabama, and additional mailing offices. Printed in the U.S.A.

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation JANUARY 2015

Outstanding Leaders Recognized

Top Young Farm Family Named

16 Hunting Hospitality 18 New Beef Checkoff Challenged 28 Perfect Comfort Food

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Federation Elects New Leaders

23 Gleaning Helps Fight Hunger

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001.

DISCLAIMERS: Advertisements in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement by the magazine or Alabama Farmers Federation. Editorial information from sources outside the Alabama Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Alabama Farmers Federation policies. Publication of information does not imply an endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation.

On The Cover 28

Albert C. Cravey, owner of Wildcat Creek Hunting Lodge, accepts a quail from one of his prized bird dogs. Photo by Caleb Hicks

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Federation Leaders Elected At 93rd Annual Meeting By Debra Davis

immy Parnell of Stanton in Chilton County was re-elected president of the state’s largest farm organization during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s 93rd annual meeting in Montgomery Dec. 8. Elections were held during the organization’s business session, where 500 delegates from Alabama’s 67 counties cast votes. Parnell, a fifth-generation farmer who raises timber and beef cattle, was unopposed in his bid for reelection to a second two-year term. He said he enjoyed his first term as president and looks forward to representing Alabama farm families in the future as the Federation works to strengthen agriculture’s position as the state’s largest industry. “I am honored by the faith and trust farm families across this state have placed in me,” Parnell said following his election. “Our state is blessed with a rich agricultural history that helped shape the very foundation of our society. But what’s exciting about agriculture in Alabama is the potential it provides for our future. We are blessed with abundant natural resources and the hardest-working people I know. I’m excited to see what’s in store for our state and this organization.” Parnell, 50, served on the Federation’s State Board of Directors from 1999-2008, was chairman of the Federation’s State Young Farmers Committee in 1997 and served as president of the Chilton County Farmers Federation from 2006-2012. He currently serves on the board of directors for the American Farm Bureau Federation. Southeast Area Vice President George Jeffcoat of Gordon in Houston County and North Area Vice President Rex Vaughn of Huntsville in Madison County also were reelected for two-year terms. Jeffcoat, 65, is a row crop and cattle farmer. The Southeast Area includes Barbour, Bullock, Chambers, Coffee, Coosa, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Elmore, Geneva, w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

The Alabama Farmers Federation elected members to its board of directors Dec. 8. Front row, from left, are District 9 Director Garry Henry; State Women’s Leadership Committee Chairman Cheryl Lassiter; State Young Farmers Committee Chairman Garrett Henry; District 3 Director Phillip Thompson; and District 6 Director Dell Hill. Back row, from left, are President Jimmy Parnell; Southeast Area Vice President George Jeffcoat; District 12 Director Fred Helms; and North Area Vice President Rex Vaughn.

Henry, Houston, Lee, Macon, Pike, Russell and Tallapoosa counties. He is president of the Houston County Farmers Federation and has a long history of service to the Farmers Federation. He was a Federation state board member from 2002-2005 and is a former chairman of the National Peanut Board. Vaughn, 54, is a row crop and beef cattle farmer. The North Area covers Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Franklin, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan and Winston counties. He is president of the Madison County Farmers Federation. He also has a history of service to the Farmers Federation having served as a former Federation state board member, chairman of the State Young Farmers Committee and on numerous state and local committees for the organization. Elections also were held for four district board positions, which have three-year terms. Phillip Thompson of Scottsboro in Jackson County was elected to the District 3 board of director’s seat, which includes Cherokee, DeKalb, 4

Etowah and Jackson counties. Dell Hill of Alpine in Talladega County was re-elected to his second term and represents District 6, which includes Calhoun, Clay, Cleburne, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair and Talladega counties. Garry Henry of Hope Hull in Montgomery County was re-elected to his third term as the District 9 representative, which covers Autauga, Butler, Chilton, Lowndes, Montgomery and Wilcox counties. Fred Helms of Dothan in Houston County was elected to the District 12 board seat. He represents Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston counties. Elected to one-year, ex-officio terms on the state board were Women’s Leadership Committee Chairman Cheryl Lassiter of Silas in Choctaw County and State Young Farmers Chairman Garrett Henry of Hope Hull in Montgomery County. The Alabama Farmers Federation, with more than 350,000 members, is Alabama’s largest farm organization and a member of the American Farm Bureau Federation. n

JANUARY 2015

Awards Presented For Service To Alabama Farmers By Mary Johnson

ore than 1,200 Alabama Farmers Federation members gathered in Montgomery Dec. 7-8 for the organization’s 93rd annual meeting. The event, held at the Montgomery Convention Center, included elections, awards presentations, an agriculture issues briefing, fundraisers and guest speakers. “This meeting is valuable because of the information we can take back to our farms and our counties to make agriculture better as a whole,” said Blount County Farmers Federation board member Tim Whitley. “Visiting with producers from across the state always means we learn how to do something to better our own operations.” Newly re-elected Gov. Robert Bentley headlined the opening general session Dec. 7. Bentley has perfect attendance at annual meetings since he was first elected in 2010. “All that farmers do, you help our state, and I want to thank the Farmers Federation for supporting me to make this state better,” Bentley said. “Farmers are the greatest people in the world. You have to live by faith every day. But most

Federation Communications Department Director Jeff Helms, left, presents the Communications Award to Choctaw SunAdvocate Publisher and Managing Editor Dee Ann Campbell for excellence in reporting on agriculture. JANUARY 2015

Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, left, presents the Cultivator Award to Steve Jenkins, who recently retired as chief of field operations for the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. Jenkins was integral in establishing Alabama’s Animal Feeding Operations/Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (AFO/CAFO) Workgroup.

New County Presidents

Kenny Childree Barbour County

Dr. Bob Carson Chambers County

Ronnie Brown Coosa County

Kenneth Northey Covington County

Steve Lake Cullman County

Chris Carroll Dale County

Johnny Lee Henry County

Will Gilmer Lamar County

Mahlon Richburg Lee County

Harold Pate Jr. Lowndes County

Stacey Nestor Montgomery Co.

Diane McCool Pickens County

Steve Stroud Pike County

Roland St. John St. Clair County

James H. White Jr. Talladega County

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importantly, you love the people you serve, and you feed us all.” Following Bentley’s remarks, the Service to Agriculture Award was presented to Jim Bannon, the retired outlying units director for the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station. This award is the Federation’s highest honor. A concert from Grammy Award-winning artist Ronnie Milsap concluded the first day. The next morning, outstanding leaders and county Federations were recognized. Bill Easterling of Barbour County and Faye Williams of Dale County were honored with an Individual Leader Award for Outstanding Local and Community Service. Sarah Lazzari of Baldwin County received an Individual Award for outstanding work on the Women’s Leadership Committee. Senior Leader Awards, honoring Federation members for long-time service, went to Joe Adams of Bullock County, Cloyce Hammonds of Calhoun County, Frankie Davis of Dale County, Frank Hughes of Jackson County, Tom Ingram of Lee County, John Dorrill of Pike County and Ronnie Mobley of Winston County. Federations in Blount, Calhoun, Coffee, Jefferson, Lee, Mobile, Montgomery and Tallapoosa counties were honored with the organization’s Award for Excellence for overall achievement in organization, agricultural programs, governmental programs, and Young Farmers and Women’s Leadership programs. Choctaw Sun-Advocate Publisher and Managing Editor Dee Ann Campbell accepted the Communications Award for the newspaper’s outstanding coverage of farming and agricultural issues. The Cultivator Award was presented to Steve Jenkins, retired chief of field operations w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

The 2015 State Young Farmers committee members are, seated from left, Allie Corcoran, Barbour County; Vice Chairman Lance Miller, Blount County; Chairman Garrett Henry, Montgomery County; Secretary Lindsey Brown, Montgomery County; American Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee Member Amy Hegeman and Federation Young Farmers Division Director Jennifer Himburg. Standing from left are Jeremy Sessions, Mobile County; Cade Grace, Walker County; Tyler Ellis, Lowndes County; Stan Usery, Limestone County; Lee Haynes, Cullman County; and Shawn Keel, Calhoun County.

The 2015 Women’s Leadership Committee members are, seated from left, Women’s Leadership Committee Chairman Cheryl Lassiter, Choctaw County; Vice Chairman Regina Carnes, Marshall County; Secretary Nell Miller, Blount County; and Sharon Byrd, Dale County. Standing from left are Federation Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Ramsey; Mary Helen Benford, Chambers County; Kathy Anderson, Jefferson County; Debra Bowen, Randolph County; Dot Stone, Wilcox County; and Faye Dial, Clay County.

division for the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. Outstanding county Women’s Leadership Committees were honored at the Women’s Leadership Luncheon. Winners were Division 1, Butler County; Division 2, Elmore County; Division 3, Mobile County; and Most Improved, Lawrence County. The State Women’s Leadership 6

Committee collected 2,955 pounds of pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald House, the most in the history of the collection. For the fourth year, the Elmore County Women’s Leadership Committee received the “Most Pop Tabs Collected” award. The group turned in 592 pounds. Outstanding Young Farmer County Committees were recognized JANUARY 2015

Eight county Farmers Federations were recognized with Awards for Excellence for overall achievement in organization, agricultural programs, governmental programs and Young Farmers and Women’s Leadership programs. Seated, from left, are Blount County President Roger Brumbeloe, Calhoun County President Wendell Wilson, Coffee County President Mike Hines and Jefferson County First Vice President John Morris. Standing, from left, are Lee County President Mahlon Richburg, Mobile County President Calvin Freeland, Montgomery County President Stacey Nestor and Tallapoosa County President Neal Kelly. Sarah Lazzari of Baldwin County, left, received an Individual Award for the Women’s Leadership Division. Bill Easterling of Barbour County and Faye Williams of Dale County, right, received an Individual Award for Local & Community Services. Barbour County Farmers Federation President Kenny Childree, center, accepted the award for Easterling.

during the Young Farmer dinner. Winners were Division 1, Tallapoosa County; Division 2, Blount County; and Division 3, Calhoun County. The agriculture issues briefing included a farm bill panel with agriculture experts and a discussion on tax legislation. Former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour provided the closing keynote address at the third general session. Now a lobbyist with a firm he cofounded in 1987, Barbour said the results of the 2014 election showed the American people are ready to give the Republican Party a chance. “The people looked at Washington and didn’t like what they saw,” Barbour said. “Republicans understand how often needless regulation hurts business, the economy and agriculture. Congress needs to get the job done and stay focused.” Young Farmers contest winners were recognized to conclude the meeting. For more about the Outstanding Young Farm Family, Excellence in Agriculture and Discussion Meet competitions, see page 9. Other meeting highlights included fundraising events for the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation. Former Auburn University head coach Pat Dye spoke at the Foundation breakfast and donated items for a live auction. Phil Slay of Chambers County placed the winning $425 bid on one of Dye’s Japanese maple trees, and Jim Cravey of Covington County bid $1,100 to win a quail hunt at Dye’s Crooked Oaks Hunting Preserve in Notasulga. County organizations donated more than 100 items for the Foundation’s silent auction. The auctions and other donations raised almost $13,000 for the Foundation, which supports agriculture education through scholarship programs and sponsoring agriculture activities. n Seven Alabama Farmers Federation members were recognized with Senior Leader Awards for their long-time service to the organization. Seated, from left, are Joe Adams, Bullock County; Cloyce Hammonds, Calhoun County; Frankie Davis, Dale County; and Frank Hughes, Jackson County. Standing, from left, are Tom Ingram, Lee County; John Dorrill, Pike County; and Ronnie Mobley, Winston County.

JANUARY 2015

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Young Farmers Recognized At Federation Annual Meeting By A.J. Watson

op Young Farmers from Dale, Marshall and Lowndes counties were recognized at the Alabama Farmers Federation 93rd annual meeting Dec. 8 in Montgomery. Dale County farmers Paul and Vicki Morrison were named Alabama’s Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) at the meeting’s closing general session. The Morrisons live in Ariton where they have 480 brood cows on 600 acres and farm about 1,800 acres of cotton, peanuts, hay, rye seed, wheat and corn. From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Dale County farmers and Alabama’s 2014 Outstanding Vicki said she and Paul are Young Farm Family Vicki and Paul Morrison, Alabama Farm Credit CEO Ben Gore, Alabama Ag Credit CEO Doug Thiessen and Trigreen Equipment Sales Manager Jay Hamlett. proud to be farmers, adding she couldn’t imagine them living any other way. and a lease on a John Deere tractor, Lowndes County. “Something about planting a provided by SunSouth, TriGreen Williams received a Polaris seed and watching it grow—we and Snead Ag John Deere dealers Sportsman ETX ATV from First know there’s a higher power,” she and John Deere. The winners will South Farm Credit and Ellis said. “Being around agriculture, we represent Alabama in San Diego at received a zero-turn John Deere witness miracles every day.” the American Farm Bureau FederaZ445 mower from Dow AgroSciAs this year’s winners, the tion’s (AFBF) Achievement Award ences and a computer package from Morrisons will promote Alabama competition during the organizaValcom/CCF Wireless. agriculture across the state. They tion’s 2015 annual convention in The Young Farmers program received more than $60,000 in January. provides opportunities for young prizes, including $35,000 toward Other winners chosen to reprefarm families to become involved a new GM vehicle, sponsored by sent Alabama in San Diego are Dis- in the organization and offers Alfa Insurance; an 825i John Deere cussion Meet winner Josh Williams leadership training and experience Gator, courtesy of Alabama Ag of Marshall County and Excellence to expand the varied interests of Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; in Ag winner Grace Smith Ellis of young Alabamians. n

Left, Josh Williams of Marshall County won the Discussion Meet and a new Polaris ATV courtesy of First South Farm Credit. From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Camp Powers of First South Farm Credit, Williams, and Mike Pigg of First South Farm Credit.

JANUARY 2015

Right, Grace Smith Ellis of Lowndes County won the Excellence in Agriculture Competition and a zero-turn John Deere mower from Dow AgroSciences. From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Ellis and Jay Golz of Dow AgroSciences. Ellis also won a computer package from Valcom/CCF Wireless. 9

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Farmers To Attend Commodity Organizational Conference Feb. 3-5 By Mary Johnson

labama farmers will learn about new research and elect leaders for 16 state commodity committees at the Alabama Farmers Federation Commodity Organizational Conference Feb. 3-5. For the third year, the three-day conference will be at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Montgomery. The venue will be familiar, but there is a new process for nominating members for election to a commodity committee, which was approved at the Federation’s annual meeting in December. Previously, counties provided a certification form. However, counties will now electronically submit nominations and voting delegate names for commodity committees through a registration website. “Our goals with this new system are to streamline some of the paperwork involved and to identify

members who have a true desire to serve agriculture as part of a state commodity committee,” said Governmental and Agricultural Pro-

Commodity Meeting Dates Feb. 3 Bee & Honey; Beef; Catfish; Pork and Cotton Feb. 4 Forestry; Hay & Forage; Horticulture; Meat Goat & Sheep; Poultry Feb. 5 Dairy; Equine; Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod; Soybean; Wheat & Feed Grains; Wildlife grams Department Director Brian Hardin. “The commodity committees are extremely important, as a lot of Federation policies originate at these meetings.” Committee members discuss

priorities and set goals for specific commodity groups for the year. Committee members also help to establish Federation policy. County Federation presidents can find nomination details, agendas and registration information online in the Events section of AlfaFarmers.org. Commodity committee members who have completed their third consecutive terms will be honored each day at lunch. Registration is due Jan. 9, and is $30 per person, per day, which includes lunch. A $30 late fee will apply for registration after the deadline. On-site registration is $70. Registration begins daily at 8:30 a.m., and meetings start at 9:30 a.m. Alabama’s peanut farmers will meet Feb. 12 in Dothan for the Alabama Peanut Producers Association annual meeting. For more information, visit alpeanuts.com. n

Jimmy Holliman

Federation President Dallas County Through involvement in numerous organizations, Dallas County cattle farmer Jimmy Holliman maintains success in whatever he does. He previously served as president of several cattle groups, including the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, and was one of the first sources of black Simmental cattle in Alabama. He is one of 10 partners in Next Step Cattle Company, and has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Mississippi State University. Holliman and his wife, Kathleen, grew up in Itta Bena, Mississippi, and have been married for 39 years. They have one son, Bret. He and his wife, Mary Ellen, live in Austin, Texas. In addition to cattle, Holliman helps to build up young men on the football field. “I have served as a football coach for over 20 years and have been a part of eight state championships,” he said. “I enjoy the interaction with the players as they develop their talents.” JANUARY 2015

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What’s On Your Plate?

Support healthy food from local farmers by purchasing a Farming Feeds Alabama license plate. The tag funds education and promotion efforts including Ag in the Classroom, Farm-City Week, agricultural scholarships and youth programs. Get the “Ag Tag” today at your local license plate issuing office.

Young Farmers Conference Slated For Montgomery By A.J. Watson

oung Farmers from across the state will converge on Montgomery Feb. 27-March 1 where three Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) finalists will be chosen. “The Young Farmers Conference is a highlight for the Young Farmers program and is an event we all look forward to each year,” said Young Farmers Division Director Jennifer Himburg. “The conference gives members a chance to connect with others from around the state and build partnerships while learning valuable skills they can take back to their operations.” Registration on Feb. 27 is open from 4-6 p.m. Afterwards the top 15 OYFF finalists will be announced at the opening banquet, followed by a performance by the country and Southern rock band Blue Denim.

Former Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Matt Lohr will deliver the keynote speech on Saturday. Sessions throughout the day include ag updates, financial improvement and effectively communicating misconceptions about agriculture. Saturday’s evening banquet concludes with the announcement of the top three OYFF finalists. Finalists will receive Yeti coolers.

The OYFF will be announced at the Federation Commodity Conference Aug. 1 and will receive more than $60,000 in prizes, including $35,000 towards a new GM vehicle, sponsored by Alfa Insurance; an 825i John Deere Gator and $500 in cash courtesy of Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; and a lease on a John Deere tractor, provided by local John Deere dealers and John Deere. The winners will represent Alabama at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) Achievement Award competition during the organization’s 2016 annual convention. The Young Farmers conference will be held at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Montgomery. Registration deadline is Jan. 27. The cost for adults is $175 per person plus lodging. Child registration is $60. Visit alfayoungfarmers.org for registration information. n Public Notice By Alabama Pork Producers And National Pork Board

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The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2016 National Pork Producers (Pork Act) Delegate Body will take place Feb. 3, 2015, at 1 p.m., in conjunction with a Board of Directors meeting of the Alabama Pork Producers Association in the State Boardroom of the Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center at 300 Tallapoosa Street in Montgomery, Alabama, during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Commodity Organization Meeting. All Alabama pork producers are invited to attend. Any producer who is a resident of the state, at least 18 years old, is a producer of porcine animals or its representative, and has paid all assessments due, may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or participant in the election. All eligible producers are encouraged to bring with them a sales receipt proving that hogs were sold in their name and the checkoff deducted. For more information contact: Alabama Pork Producers, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, AL 3619 or telephone (334) 6125181; email ghall@alfafarmers.org. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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of peanuts with his father, Charlie. He is co-chairman of the Russell County Young Farmers Committee, board member of the Russell County Farmers Federation and vice president of the Russell County CattleWalters man’s Association. Walters and his father, Glen, farm 350 acres of peanuts and 500 acres of cotton. He is a graduate of the Auburn University College of Agriculture. Byrd farms with his father, Jerry, and brother, Stephen. Together, they grow 400 acres of peanuts in addition to corn, cotton and wheat. Byrd and his wife, Kendra, have two children, Bailey, and Brock. n

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our Alabama peanut farmers have been selected for the 9th Peanut Leadership Academy Class, a cooperative effort of Syngenta Crop Protection, the American Peanut Shellers Association and grower organizations from seven states. Brian Byrd of Ariton, Jeremy Sessions of Grand Bay, Charles Speake Jr. of Eufaula and Russell Walters of Andalusia were selected for the program and attended their inaugural class in December. Byrd The Peanut Leadership Academy began in 1998 to expose farmers to different aspects of the peanut industry. It has expanded from its original class of 14 growers from Alabama, Georgia and Florida to a current class of 22 from those states plus Mississippi, Texas, Virginia and North Carolina. Sessions “I think it’s always good to learn more about the peanut industry,” Sessions said. “Farmers are often blind to the issues that affect us if we don’t see them in the field.” Sessions, 34, farms 500 acres of peanuts and a combination of 1,300 acres of watermelons, peaches, satsumas, tomatoes, squash, sweet corn and pecans with his father, Art, and uncle, David. He serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation Young Farmers State Committee. Speake, 29, farms 1,500 acres

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IT’S ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE

Mike Jones of Andalusia shoots at a covey of quail at Wildcat Creek Hunting Lodge. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

JANUARY 2015

Sou

uthern Farm Hospitality Targets Hunters By Debra Davis

“We rely on word of mouth for most of what we offer,” Cravey said. “We have a lot of repeat business, and those folks tell their friends about us. We offer hunts for turkey, deer and quail, and we have a nice lake stocked with tiger bass (a hybrid of Florida bass and northern bass.)” Mike Jones of Andalusia is an attorney and state representative who loves quail hunting. On a recent trip to Wildcat Creek, he grinned while watching Cravey’s bird dogs run and sniff out quail beneath tall pines. “There’s just something about it,” he said of quail hunting. “I love it. I wish I had time to do it more often.” Cravey is among thousands of landowners and farmers who’ve discovered hunting is a good way to supplement farm income. “Hunting and fishing is a $2.4 billion industry in Alabama and is growing every year,” said Federation Wildlife Division Director Rick Oates. “Hunting and fishing are great ways for urban residents to stay in touch with Alabama’s rural roots, and that’s good for all farmers.” Even though he seldom takes a shot at quail except on the rare occasion when he goes hunting with family, Cravey said the thrill is still there. “From the time we load the dogs up and head toward the woods, it gets my heart racing,” he said. “The air is full of energy. It’s that same feeling you get when you see a big buck. It’s hard to explain if you haven’t experienced it before, and we love to share that experience.” For a list of other outfitters in Alabama, visit AlabamaOutfitters. org. Go to OutdoorAlabama.com for fishing and hunting activities. n

he Southern traditions of good hunting, delicious food and friendship are the main ingredients to the success of Wildcat Creek Hunting Lodge near Florala and owner Albert C. Cravey. The Wiley House, originally built around 1922, is the gateway to Wildcat Creek, a sportsman’s paradise home to trophy bucks, big bass, strutting gobblers and bobwhite quail. “From the moment our guests turn onto this dirt road, we are on stage,” Cravey said. “I am the guide and the cook. I pay close attention to every detail to make sure they have a great time and a good hunt. An attitude of ensuring our guests are treated like family is what makes our lodge a success. If you don’t like people and don’t have a lot of patience, this probably isn’t a good fit on your farm.” For Cravey, who started his wildlife outfitters business in 1999, it was a matter of getting paid for a service he once provided free. It was Steve Guy, former Alabama Farmers Federation Wildlife Division director, who encouraged Cravey to make the change. “Steve told me that with my experience and all the wildlife available on our farm, people would be willing to pay for it,” Cravey said. “He was right.” Every detail — from homemade biscuits to juicy grilled steaks — is planned and executed by Cravey, whose main farm business is beef cattle. Covington County farmer Cecil Ammons is a longtime friend and frequent quail hunter at Wildcat Creek. He said hunting is his way to unwind and slow down. “Until a few years ago, I only hunted deer and raccoons,” he said. “Then I came quail hunting here. It became habit forming. When you get to this place, you feel like you’re home.” That feeling is the ultimate compliment for Cravey, who owns the family farm with his brother, Jim. Such praise is the world’s best advertising, he said.

JANUARY 2015

WildcatCreekLodge.com (334) 504-2452 AlabamaOutfitters.org

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Federation Opposes Creation Of New National Beef Checkoff By Debra Davis

except he hopes to have collections begin by January 2016. However, no other details about how the checkoff would be structured or administered have been released. Vilsack issued a Notice of Inquiry Nov. 10 aimed at gathering public input about how a new checkoff should be structured. Those comments will supposedly be used to create a draft rule to be published in early 2015. The Alabama Farmers Federation is submitting comments to officially be on record opposing the new checkoff which is in line with its recently passed policy. “We urge you, Mr. Secretary, please do not issue an order for a separate, national beef checkoff,” Parnell wrote in his letter. “Current American Farm Bureau policy supports checkoff programs only if they have approval by producer referendum prior to implementation. Based on the lack of stakeholder input sought up until this point, we cannot be certain that would be the case.” Members of the Federation State Beef Committee support an increase to the current national beef checkoff and also have collectively voted to oppose implementation of the new beef checkoff proposed by Vilsack. Multiple qualified state beef councils, including the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, also oppose Vilsack’s plan. All 67 counties in Alabama have an active Federation Beef Commodity Committee that develops the organization’s policy relating to the cattle business. Cattle farming in Alabama contributes $524 million to the state’s economy and directly employs more than 6,200 people, according to a recent survey by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. n

he state’s largest farm organization has gone on record opposing a new national beef checkoff program proposed by U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. At its December annual meeting, voting delegates of the Alabama Farmers Federation unanimously adopted policy supporting the existing National Beef Checkoff and opposing creation of a second checkoff under a 1996 law. In a recent letter, Federation President Jimmy Parnell, a cattle and timber farmer, urged Vilsack not to order a separate national beef checkoff. “We believe such action is duplicative, unnecessary and the wrong approach to beef promotion,” Parnell said. “We already have a very successful national beef checkoff that returns more than $11 for every dollar contributed by farmers and ranchers. Farmers and ranchers strongly support the current national beef checkoff.” Currently, Alabama cattlemen contribute $2 per head of cattle sold to beef checkoffs. One dollar is contributed to the National Beef Checkoff, half of which is returned to the State Cattle Beef Board for education, promotion and research. The other $1 goes to the State Beef Checkoff, which was reaffirmed in 2013. Both checkoffs enjoy a producer-approval rate of near 80 percent. Farmers and ranchers approved the existing national beef checkoff in 1988. It collects money for education, promotion and research. Subsequent votes showed lopsided approval for the current checkoff. Little is known about Vilsack’s proposed checkoff

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Animal agriculture adds $8.9 billion in the Alabama economy. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no bull.

Source: 2010 Promar Animal Ag Economic Analysis

ÂŠ2013 United Soybean Board

Upcoming Conference Provides Innovative Ideas To Keep Families Farming By Mary Johnson

arming is the world’s oldest occupation, but today less than 1 percent of the U.S. population works in agriculture. In Alabama, the number of farms decreased 11 percent from 2007 to 2012, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2012 Census of Agriculture. The Southern Sustainable Agriculture Working Group (SAWG) is hoping to reverse this decline by educating people of all ages on innovative ways to maintain profitability on the family farm. More than 1,000 farmers from states across the Southeast are expected to attend the group’s “Practical Tools and Solutions for Sustaining Family Farms” conference Jan. 14-17 in Mobile. “This is a farming conference where the energy is very high,” said

JANUARY 2015

Southern SAWG Program Manager Jean Mills. “The conference presenters are some of the best experts in their fields, and more importantly, they have practical experience. As a result, attendees go home with information they can put to use right away.” Intense short courses on various topics will take place Jan. 14 and 15, with additional mini courses and field trips on Jan. 15. The regular conference is Jan. 16 and 17 with educational sessions on beginning farming, food hubs, farm enterprise and business management, crop production in high tunnels, and direct and cooperative marketing, among others. “This event brings people from all over and is a tremendous educational experience for farmers,” said Alabama Farmers Market Authority Director Don Wambles, who will present at the conference. “This

conference is about sustaining our agriculture and economy for all generations. Without profitability in agriculture, there is no sustainability.” While the sessions will provide valuable information, Mills said attendees appreciate the networking opportunities the most. “It’s inspirational to come here and see that there’s a huge community of people who are staying on the family farm and being successful,” she said. “I really encourage farmers to take advantage of this opportunity while the conference is here in Alabama, because next year, it won’t be.” Conference registration is $225 through Jan. 7, and $250 on-site. Additional fees are required for attending the short courses, mini courses or field trips. For a full conference program and registration, visit SSAWG.org. n

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Alfa Foundation Helps Fight Hunger In Alabama By A.J. Watson

donation from the Alfa Foundation will feed roughly 1 million people in Alabama and marks the 10th consecutive year the foundation has supported the Society of St. Andrew (SoSA). “The work the Society of St. Andrew does is parallel with the core values of the Federation,” said Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “With the hard work of farmers and volunteers, millions of pounds of food are saved and given to people in need.” While the Foundation’s support is financial, a donation of $20,000, farmers throughout the state help feed the hungry by contributing food from their fields or selling crops at a reduced cost. Madison County farmer Billy Mullins said the SoSA staff was easy to work with when they gathered blueberries and muscadines from his farm last summer and fall. “If I just let the fruit stay there, it would have gone to waste,” he said. “I have a U-pick operation, and once people get their fill of picking, I don’t want the food to go to waste. Most of the volunteers are adults, so they’ve done this before and know what they’re doing.” About 40,000 volunteers work with SoSA in its six regional offices, located in the Southeast. Alabama Regional Director Linda Tozer said Alfa’s gift goes a long way in securing food for those in need. “Knowing that we can move food at an average of just 2 cents per serving, those dollars stretch very far,” Tozer said. “We’re very appreciative to those large donors like Alfa that come through and see what we’re able to do and how important the work is.” SoSA’s North Alabama Gleaning Coordinator Mary Lynne Botts said

JANUARY 2015

Volunteers collect and distribute fresh fruit and vegetables gleaned from Alabama farms for the Society of St. Andrew.

the organization tries to buy from farmers when it can, but that usually is not the case. “If we’re in a position to help our farmers, then we’ll do whatever we can to help,” Botts said. “Only one or two food banks in Alabama have budgets, and those are usually low.” Botts said the SoSA is a gobetween for organizations needing food and farmers who have unmarketable, yet nutritious food. Will Scott of Scott’s Orchards in Hazel Green sold surplus apples to 23

the SoSA that were distributed to food banks in Birmingham; Houston, Texas; and Chattanooga and Nashville, Tennessee. “We distributed almost 300,000 pounds of apples through the staff at St. Andrew,” Scott said. “They helped us find a home for the apples, and we were paid for them (at a reduced price). It’s almost like I have an extension of my staff.” n

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Dairy Farmer Reflects On 60 Years By A.J. Watson

Southside farmer Joe Brown rests following the morning milking.

very day since 1953, Southside dairy farmer Joe Brown has gotten up before the sun and most morning commuters to milk cows. With the help of his son, Joel, and grandson, Ben, three generations of dairy farmers run 110 cows on 276 acres in Etowah County. “I bought 10 cows, and that’s how I got in the dairy business,” Joe said. “I worked them by hand for a couple years. I toted the bucket and poured it in a 10-gallon can, and then I put the 10-gallon can in a cooler.” Technology has improved things, but Joe said the routine is the same. Thankfully, with the help of his family, farm duties are divided among the trio. “When you’re a farming family, it’s different from a regular family,” Joel said. “You work together for seven days a week, and if you don’t work together, nothing gets accomplished.” Ben starts his day at 5 a.m. by herding cows out of the barn and making sure they’re fed. After the sun creeps up and his duties are done, he leaves for a job at Gadsden Water Works while Joel starts milking cows around 7 a.m. “I’ve been by Paw Paw’s side since I was three years old,” Ben said. “There’s a specific time for everything, every day. When we find time for fence work, planting, plowing and everything else, that’s added in.” Joe raised crops when he first started farming, but due to more frequent and profitable pay, he quickly switched to dairy. The Browns grow crops for feed and personal use outside of the dairy, but Ben said they’ve started to experiw w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Joel Brown, left, and his nephew, Ben Brown, are part of the farm’s family legacy,

ment with other moneymaking endeavors on the farm. Joe has encouraged Ben to expand the farm in other areas. “All farmers work hard, but if you’re a row crop farmer you have down time during the year where you can work on equipment,” Joe said. “But in the winter, as dairy farmers, we’re working our hardest. I’d like to row crop, but it wouldn’t be feasible for me to go out and buy a half-million dollar piece of equipment.” Joe said hard work has been a theme for his life and is why he still works around the farm. During cold nights, early mornings and tough circumstances, he said he’s never lost sight of what’s important. “I feel sorry for a fellow who doesn’t like to work,” he said. “It keeps you healthy. There’s no question about it; that’s why I’m still here.” n 24

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Blount County Young Farmers Program Wins National Award By Mary Johnson

Committee members worked with area farmers, other county Federation committees, Extension agents, and seed and chemical company representatives to offer a wide variety of information at the event. Through sponsorships, the program was free to attend. Blount County Young Farmers Committee member Stephanie Miller helped host the event. She said she considers it a farmer’s duty to help train volunteer emergency personnel on responding to farm accidents, and she understands the importance of the training from personal experience. “During harvest this year, one of our cotton pickers caught fire and burned to the ground,” Miller said. “My husband, Lance, barely made it out. I shudder to think what could have happened, but I hope the training we give at the Farm Safety Day would have provided the firefighters with the knowledge of how to rescue him, had that been necessary.” Members of the Blount County Young Farmers will display the winning activity at the AFBF Annual Convention and IDEAg Trade Show Jan. 9-11 in San Diego, California. n

he American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) selected the Blount County Young Farmers’ “Farm Safety Day and Row Crop Tour” event as a County Activity of Excellence (CAE) for 2014. This prestigious, national recognition is given to only 24 of the top county Farm Bureau programs. “It’s an honor to represent our county and our state by receiving the CAE award,” Blount County Young Farmers Chairman Chris Holaway said. “It shows all the hard work and effort that went into this event, especially the work behind the scenes that people may not know about. Our Farm Safety Event is so important, and anything we can do to promote safety on the farm is worth doing.” Nearly 200 first responders from five counties attended the training, which educated emergency personnel on farm equipment and extrication methods. The event is held every two years in the county, and attendees receive continuing education credit.

Catfish Checkoff Referendum Scheduled For Jan. 22 By Mary Johnson

Alabama’s Aeromonas outbreak started in the summer of 2009, according to researchers. In five years, it’s estimated the disease is responsible for more than $12 million in catfish losses across the Southeast. “Catfish farming is a major part of Alabama’s economy, especially in Black Belt counties, but a cure for this disease must be found to keep catfish farming viable,” said Federation Catfish Division Director Rick Oates. The Federation State Catfish Committee supports the increased checkoff, which was first approved in 1989 to fund research, educational and promotional efforts. Continuation of the program was unanimously approved in 2010 and 2005. Catfish farmers who purchased feed in the past year, but not less than 30 days prior to the referendum, are eligible to vote. Polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 22. Visit tinyurl.com/CatfishPoll15 for a list of polling places. n

labama catfish farmers will vote Jan. 22 on continuing the state’s catfish checkoff program for an additional five years at an increased collection rate. The proposal would increase the amount collected from 50 cents per ton of catfish feed sold to $1 per ton to fund additional research projects. Of the increased funding, $50,000 will go to Auburn University for research on catfish Aeromonas disease. Caused by a bacteria, the disease is currently incurable and causing dramatic catfish losses for Alabama farmers. “We hope researchers will find a cure or a vaccine to prevent the disease,” said Perry County catfish farmer Paul Wheeler, who serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation State Catfish Committee. “Aeromonas doesn’t kill baby fish; it kills grown catfish. It’s devastating. Not only are farmers losing catfish, but they’re losing all the investment they put into raising the fish.” JANUARY 2015

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and open, allowing light to pass through. Trees can reach a height of 50 feet or more and grow to 30 or more feet wide at the base after several decades. Although tempting, this is not a tree for a foundation planting at the corner of the house. Because of its large size, this tree is best out in the lawn as a specimen plant or along a lot line to act as a screen. Its branches need room to spread and droop to the ground like those of the Southern magnolia. Also, like magnolias, hollies will shade and compete with smaller plants, so it is best to leave the ground underneath open and covered with mulch. In the woods, American holly is usually an understory tree often found in the pine-hardwood forests in association with Southern magnolia, loblolly pine, white oak, water oak and American beech. However, in a garden, American holly has such as distinctive shape and large size it deserves a spot of its own away from other trees. Hollies are dependable and long-lived, often outliving the gardeners who planted them. American holly is also called Christmas holly because its branches have long been cut for arrangements during the holiday season. The red berries of female trees add to the appeal of cut branches, but the pretty evergreen leaves are great for arrangements any time, even without berries. Green berries first appear in June, turning red in fall. They stay on the tree through winter until the birds find them. In fact, the tree is an important source of both food and shelter for birds because the dense foliage provides a protected place for nesting. Professional woodworkers value American holly for the white color of its wood. Much of the white wood seen in inlay work is holly, as is dyed wood because hollyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s uniform grain and white color takes stains and dyes well. The hard wood is also used in knife handles and has historically been dyed black to resemble ebony for piano keys. At one time, holly wood was used to make buttons for clothing. For gardeners and homeowners who like hollies but have limited space, smaller hybrids related to American holly, such as Foster, Savannah and East Palatka are available in nurseries and exhibit many of the same qualities as the native species. n _________________________________

By Lois Chaplin

his time of year, evergreen trees with berries are in all their splendor, especially the beautiful American hollies in many Alabama neighborhoods. American holly (Ilex opaca) is a stately evergreen tree standing tall and quiet, a gentle reminder of the serene beauty of natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chilliest season. It is also one of the most dependable evergreens. It grows wild in the woods throughout Alabama and is well adapted to Southern yards. American holly will grow in shade or full sun, and it thrives in sandy or clay soils. The only thing it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tolerate is soggy ground. As the most cold-hardy broadleaf evergreen tree, holly grows wild from central Florida to Massachusetts. Some hollies in home landscapes may have even started from wild seedlings. American holly has a very dense, Christmas treelike pyramidal form for much of its life. As the tree ages (30 years or more), its branches may begin to drop

Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

WINTER SAVINGS. WWW.ALAFARM.COM w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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SLOW COOKER FRENCH ONION SOUP Start-to-finish: 5 hours (40 minutes active) Serves 4-6 6 tablespoons butter 4 large yellow onions, sliced and separated into rings 1 tablespoon white sugar 2 cloves garlic, minced ½ cup cooking sherry or dry white wine 7 cups beef broth (or use beef bouillon cubes) 1 teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon dried thyme 1 bay leaf Sliced French bread ½ cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese 1/3 cup shredded Emmental or Swiss cheese ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella cheese

By Jill Clair Gentry

anuary is Alabama’s coldest month, and cold weather calls for a big bowl of warm soup. Served as an appetizer or main course, vegetarian or meaty, dinner for two or a meal for those in need — soup is arguably the ultimate comfort food. And soup isn’t just good for getting full and staying warm. Many soup recipes are inexpensive and can be simmered on the stove or cooked in a slow cooker after minimal preparation time — perfect for the month spent recovering from holiday spending and scheduling. Most soups are also good candidates for make-ahead freezer meals. Paula Davis of Fort Payne cooks a lot of soup during cold months — every Sunday, she cooks for her entire family, and soups and stews are a popular choice. “We live on Lookout Mountain, and it’s very windy and cold, so starting in the fall all the way through winter, I make soups and stews, particularly my beef stew (see “Homemade Beef Stew” recipe), which I’ve been making for more than 40 years now,” Paula said. “It’s just one of everyone’s favorite meals. On beef stew day, all of my grandchildren come in

the door asking, ‘Maw Maw, is that your beef stew we smell?’ We always eat it out of the same big glass bowls, and it’s served with coleslaw, buttered crackers and slices of cheddar cheese. It’s a wonderful winter tradition.” Paula and her husband Keith have two daughters and five grandchildren whose ages range from 14 years to 6 weeks. “My grandchildren help me cook and always have,” Paula said. “Even when they were very small, they sat on the kitchen counter and helped me bake and cook. As they’ve grown older, that’s been a bond we’ve shared, and I so enjoy them being in the kitchen with me.” And when the whole family gathers around the table, Paula and Keith make it a priority to listen to their grandchildren as they share about their lives, thoughts and dreams. “We think it is very important to eat together and listen to the children,” Paula said. “Our granddaughter always sings the blessing, and our little grandson prays and prays for about five minutes. We make sure it’s never rushed.” n

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In a large, heavy pot, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle onions with sugar; reduce heat to medium. Cook, stirring frequently, until onions are soft and browned, at least 30 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute. Stir sherry or wine into onion mixture, scraping bottom of pot to dissolve small bits of browned onion. Transfer onions into slow cooker and pour in beef broth. Season to taste with salt; stir in thyme and bay leaf. Cover, and cook 4-6 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low. About 10 minutes before serving, set oven rack about 8 inches from heat source and preheat the oven’s broiler. Arrange bread slices on baking sheet and broil until slices are toasted, 1-2 minutes per side. Combine cheeses in a bowl, tossing lightly. Fill oven-safe bowls ¾ full of onion soup and float a bread slice in each bowl. Top with about 2 tablespoons of cheese mixture per bowl. Place bowls onto a baking sheet and broil until cheese topping is lightly browned and bubbling, about 2 minutes.

FarmingFeedsAlabama.com JANUARY 2015

VEGETABLE-HAMBURGER SOUP Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 45 minutes (15 minutes active) Serves 8-10 1½ pounds ground beef 1 medium onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cups V-8 vegetable juice

HOMEMADE BEEF STEW Courtesy of Paula Davis Start-to-finish: 2 hours, 15 minutes (15 minutes active) Serves 8-10 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 pound stew meat, cubed and browned in oil 8 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce 3 cups water 1 tablespoon onion salt 1 pound hamburger meat, browned and drained

Mix all ingredients except hamburger meat together and bring to low boil. Simmer on low for 1½ to 2 hours or 6-8 hours in a slow cooker. Add water while cooking if necessary. Just before serving, cook hamburger meat and add to stew.

2 cups water 3 large potatoes, pared and cut into cubes 2 celery stalks, chopped 3 carrots, chopped 1 bell pepper, chopped 1 zucchini, chopped 15-ounce can green beans 15-ounce can whole kernel corn

BRUNSWICK STEW Courtesy of Paula Davis Start-to-finish: 40 minutes (10 minutes active) Serves 8-10 12-ounce can barbecue pork or 1 pound of shredded pork 12-ounce can chicken, drained and flaked 1 pound hamburger meat, browned and drained 15-ounce can tomato sauce 15-ounce can chicken broth 15-ounce can diced petite tomatoes 15-ounce can baby lima beans, drained 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons ketchup 1 tablespoon Jack Daniels steak sauce 1 tablespoon onion salt

15-ounce can stewed tomatoes 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons garlic powder ½ teaspoon pepper

Brown ground beef. Add onions and garlic, and cook 2-3 minutes more. Drain. In a large pot, add all ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 90 minutes or until vegetables are tender. This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.

Mix all ingredients together, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer on low for 30 minutes. Serve with cornbread.

RED POTATO SOUP potatoes. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour until smooth. Gradually stir in milk. Bring to a boil, and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Pour into potato mixture, and cook until thickened and bubbly, stirring constantly. Add salt and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted.

Start-to-finish: 35 minutes Serves 4-6 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 6 medium red potatoes, cubed 2 carrots, sliced 2 celery stalks, sliced 1½ cups chicken broth 3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons flour 2½ cups milk Salt and pepper to taste ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese

In a large saucepan, saute onion and garlic in oil until soft. Add potatoes, carrots, celery and broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender; lightly mash JANUARY 2015

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Applications Sought For Alabama Farm Of Distinction Contest

utstanding Alabama farms have until Jan. 30 to apply for more than $12,000 in cash and prizes as part of the Alabama Farm of Distinction contest. Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms said the contest recognizes sustainable farm businesses that exhibit sound management, environmental stewardship and innovation. “Alabama’s Farm of Distinction is the highest honor an agricultural operation can receive,” Helms said. “The Farm-City Committee created the award to showcase exceptional farms as it seeks to improve understanding and cooperation between farmers and their urban or suburban neighbors.” Up to five finalists for the award will be selected based on applications, and each will receive a $250 gift certificate from Alabama Farmers Cooperative. Judges will travel to the farms of each finalist, and the overall winner will be

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announced at the Alabama FarmCity Awards Luncheon April 2 in Birmingham. Alabama’s Farm of Distinction will receive a John Deere Gator from SunSouth, TriGreen and Snead Ag dealers; a $1,000 gift certificate from Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC); $2,500 from Swisher International and an engraved farm sign from Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance. The overall winner will represent Alabama in the Swisher Sweets / Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year contest at the Sunbelt Ag Expo Oct. 20-22.

“The 2014 Alabama Farm of Distinction was Hunter Trees, a landscape tree nursery in Alpine,” Helms said. “Phillip Hunter and his family do an outstanding job representing Alabama agriculture. Like all Farm of Distinction winners, the Hunters are the cream of the crop. Their commitment to high-quality products, community involvement and conservation of natural resources helps achieve Farm-City’s mission.” Farm-City Week started in 1955 and is officially observed the week before Thanksgiving, however, many county Farm-City committees sponsor educational activities throughout the year. Farm-City volunteers will help celebrate National Agriculture Day March 18. Farm of Distinction applications are available under documents at AlabamaFarmCity.org. For more information about National Agriculture Day, visit AgDay.org. n

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