Neighbors Magazine, February 2014 by Alabama Farmers Federation

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VOLUME 39, NUMBER 2

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

FEBRUARY 2014

_____________________________________

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 Waymon Buttram, Crossville 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 S. Steve Dunn, Samson Sharon Byrd, Ariton Allie Corcoran, Eufaula

In This Issue 4

10 Corcoran Continues Legacy

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.

16 Cattle Prices Drive Upward

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation FEBRUARY 2014

22 Peanuts Crack New Menu

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19 Byrd Brings Leadership

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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.

AFBF Annual Meeting

Lowndes County cattleman Randall Pringle helps a young calf on his farm near Lowndesboro. Photo by Debra Davis

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Lee, Walker County Federations Honored At National AFBF Meeting By Debra Davis

he Lee County and Walker County Farmers Federations were among 24 county Farm Bureaus nationwide to receive the County Activities of Excellence (CAE) Awards from the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). The winners were highlighted during AFBF’s 95th annual convention, Jan. 12-15, in San Antonio. Both counties provided information about their CAE events at the convention’s trade show — Lee County for its Agricultural Fair, and Walker County for its Sharing Agriculture in Education: Books, Red Barns and Blue Jackets. “I’m proud of my county for being here and the work it’s done to increase agricultural awareness and grow membership,” said Lee County Farmers Federation President Tom Ingram. Walker County Farmers Federation President Dorman Grace said it was a wonderful experience to share his county’s program with hundreds of other Farm Bureau leaders. “We’ve been overwhelmed with folks from all over the country asking about where we got the bookshelves, the books we used and project funding,” Grace said. AFBF President Bob Stallman said CAE winners exemplify countylevel grassroots members who are the heart and soul of Farm Bureau. “The innovative ways they reach out in their communities with information about today’s food and farming shows they are eager to engage and share their stories of agriculture,” Stallman said. In addition to the trade show, more than 100 Alabama farmers joined 7,000 farmers nationwide for educational seminars, voting delegate sessions and Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) competitions. Alabama YF&R contestants were: Stewart McGill of Madison County, who was a semi-finalist in the National Discussion Meet;

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Top photo: Members of the Lee County Farmers Federation man their booth at the AFBF trade show, where they greeted visitors who wanted to learn more about the county’s Agricultural Fair. Bottom photo: Walker County Farmers Federation President Dorman Grace and his wife, Susan, left, talk to North Carolina Farm Bureau members Durwood and Mary Baggett about their county’s “Books, Red Barns and Blue Jackets” initiative.

Stan and Kayla Usery of Limestone County in the Achievement Award contest; and Zac Burns of Marshall County in the Excellence in Agriculture competition. Tuscaloosa farmer Clyde Leavelle said he was impressed by Farm Bureau taking the lead on national farming issues. “I was particularly interested in the battle over EPA’s efforts to expand its jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act,” Leavelle said. “It’s encouraging that Farm Bureau has made progress in opposing the 4

unreasonable decisions made by EPA and the unreasonable control it’s trying to exert.” The Alabama Farmers Federation was recognized at the convention with Excellence Awards in Education & Outreach, Leadership Development, Member Services, Policy Development & Implementation and Public Relations & Communications. Federation President Jimmy Parnell was re-elected to a two-year term on the AFBF Board of Directors during the meeting. n FEBRUARY 2014

Ag And Rural Crime Unit Chalks Up Victories In Alabama By Mary Johnson

ecent arrests in a south Alabama theft ring and a Dallas County farm vandalism case are the latest victories for the state’s Agricultural and Rural Crimes Unit (ARCU). Since forming in June 2013, ARCU has 55 felony arrests and 68 misdemeanor arrests to its credit and has recovered $1.5 million worth of stolen equipment. ARCU Chief Lt. Gene Wiggins credits the unit’s success to good working relationships with local law enforcement agencies. “Police and sheriffs respond first, but ARCU provides a valuable resource because our jurisdiction covers the state,” Wiggins said. “Our agents are talented investigators, and they always have agriculture on their minds. Calling us is like having more specialized deputies on the case. Along with outreach to law enforcement agencies, Wiggins said his unit has reached out to agricultural groups, like the Alabama Farmers Federation, to educate members on preventing theft. “We’re trying to be proactive,” Wiggins said. “Thieves are looking for easy access to something valuable. The most important thing farmers can do (to protect their property) is be vigilant.” Dallas County farmer Johnny Henry knows first-hand the benefits of vigilance. Before Christmas, vandals cut plastic wrap from cotton bales on his Selma farm, and he filed a report with ARCU. Later, as farm workers cleaned up the mess, they noticed a suspicious vehicle in the area. “The driver was returning to the scene of the crime, I guess to see his handiwork,” Henry said. After an ARCU investigation, the driver and his son confessed. “It’s a relief to know these criminals have been arrested,” Henry said. “It’s now a closed chapter. I

FEBRUARY 2014

Dallas County farmer Johnny Henry, right, with Agricultural and Rural Crime Unit Chief Lt. Gene Wiggins and Special Agent Wayne Leonard near a field where cotton was destroyed by vandals at his Selma farm. The ARCU investigation led to two arrests in the case.

can’t thank everyone enough.” Another ARCU success story led to four arrests in theft investigations of a utility trailer, golf cart, all-terrain vehicle and zero-turn lawn mower in south Alabama and the Florida panhandle. Thieves targeted businesses, including the SunSouth John Deere dealer in Covington County. “People stealing equipment from our dealers has been an issue the past 10 to 15 years,” said SunSouth Chairman Lester Killebrew. “ARCU is doing a tremendous job. I think what they’re doing will deter crime because it won’t be so easy for thieves to target rural areas anymore.” ARCU was created by 2013 legislation consolidating state law enforcement agencies. While the law does not take full effect until 2015, Gov. Robert Bentley and Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency Secretary Spencer Collier saw the immediate need for an agricultural unit. “When we started ARCU, I was eager for our unit to get out there and demonstrate there was a need for agricultural investigators,” Wiggins said. “It’s a good feeling to 5

know the governor and Secretary Collier trust me to head this unit.” However, Wiggins said, the best feeling is letting a victim know a crime has been solved. “It’s so gratifying to call someone — to hear their voice change to a tone of sincerity and appreciation,” he said. Wiggins said he believes the unit will continue to help reduce and solve rural crimes, and possibly expand in the coming year. To report a rural crime, visit arcu.alabama.gov. or call 855-75-CRIME. n

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Legislation To Level Field For Alabama Equipment Dealers By Jeff Helms

bill sponsored in the Legislature by State Rep. Paul Lee, R-Dothan, aims to stop the erosion of farm equipment sales, jobs and revenue to adjacent states. Lee met with equipment dealers outside the Houston County Farm Center in late December to bolster support for HB86, which would remove the 1.5 percent state sales tax from new and used farm equipment and parts. Sen. Tom Whatley, R-Auburn, agreed to sponsor the legislation in the Senate, SB69. “Over the last several years, we’ve seen the states of Tennessee, Florida and Georgia remove their state sales tax on farm equipment,” Lee said. “We’re seeing people one, two and three counties deep all around those borders leaving our state to buy their farm equipment. Not only are we losing sales, we’re seeing the potential for people to lose their jobs.” Alabama Farmers Federation State Legislative Programs Director for the House of Representatives David Cole said the tax exemption will help ensure farmers have access to equipment, parts and service when they need it most. “At harvest time, a farmer can’t afford to drive hundreds of miles for repairs or wait days for a part,” Cole said. “This bill helps keep local equipment dealers in business so they can serve farmers, create jobs and generate revenue for our communities.” By supporting the sales tax exemption, Lee said Alabama can avoid losing millions of dollars in sales and jobs. “We’re already seeing money leave,” he said. “Next, you will see these men closing their businesses, and people losing their jobs.” Dewayne Williams, store manager for SunSouth in Dothan, said Alabama sales tax can range from about $1,000 on a tractor used for hay cutting to several thousand dol-

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State Rep. Paul Lee, second from left, held a news conference with tractor dealers in Dothan to announce sponsorship of his bill eliminating state sales tax on farm equipment. From left are Kyle Hardy of Wiregrass International in Headland, Lee, Dewayne Williams of SunSouth in Dothan and Alabama Farmers Federation State Legislative Programs Director for the House of Representatives David Cole.

lars for a combine, cotton picker or large, row-crop tractor. “We lose deals over $200 on a $70,000 tractor, so when you start talking about $1,000 in sales tax, it’s easy for them to walk away,” Williams said. Williams said it’s frustrating for his sales team to work hours to get the best possible price for a farmer only to see the customer go across the state line because of taxes. Both Williams and Kyle Hardy, president of Wiregrass International in Headland, said the worst thing about the tax disparity is the loss of long-time customers. “If we lose the sale of the tractor, that’s one thing,” Hardy said. “But if a person buys a tractor with a dealership across the state line, he builds a relationship, and then he goes there to buy his parts; he goes there for his repairs. We lose more than just the sale of the tractor. We lose the customer.” Williams and other equipment dealers said the legislation could provide an economic boost to Alabama communities. SunSouth has 12 locations in 6

Alabama, with 24 employees in the Dothan store alone. “If we weren’t losing business, we could probably use three, four or five more employees,” Williams said. “It would be a win-win situation if we could get this bill passed.” Glen Gulledge agrees. He recently sold Wells Tractor Co. to Atlantic and Southern Equipment of Dothan, where he works as a sales manager. “Our goal is for this business to expand,” he said. “When we grow this business, we can go from 10 employees to 15-20 employees from this area.” Henry County Young Farmers Chairman Kenny Woodham works for Atlantic and Southern and has 600 acres of cotton and peanuts as well as a 140 beef cows. He said the tax exemption helps his bottom line. “It would mean more money in farmers’ pockets at the end of the year,” Woodham said. “It’s not a huge rate of tax, but when you consider the amount of money we spend every year, it adds up.” n FEBRUARY 2014

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Circuit Court Upholds Alabama’s Property Tax System By Mary Johnson

labama farmers and property owners applauded a Jan. 10 federal court ruling upholding Alabama’s property tax system. The U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the 2011 ruling of U.S. District Judge Lynwood Smith in Lynch vs. Alabama Jan. 10, which stated the property tax system does not violate the U.S. Constitution. Plaintiffs from Lawrence and Sumter counties argued Alabama’s property tax system is racially discriminatory because it allegedly limits funding for education, especially in rural areas. The court stated the property tax system was established in the 1970s due to concerns of increasing taxes and was not racially motivated. Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell said the decision will help the state’s farmers

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afford to stay on their land. “We appreciate the attorney general’s strong defense of Alabama law,” Parnell said. “This ruling is good news for Alabama farmers, homeowners and all citizens. It preserves the Legislature’s authority and the right of the people to vote on property taxes, rather than having tax rates set by the courts.” In a release, Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange said the ruling affirms the State’s position that its property tax structure does not violate the U.S. Constitution. “And equally as important, (the ruling confirms) that the citizens of Alabama have a right to structure their own tax system,” Strange said. “The Office of Attorney General remains committed to defending and vindicating this important right whenever necessary.” Alabama Forestry Association Executive Vice President Chris

Isaacson echoed sentiments that the ruling is a positive result for all Alabamians. “The 11th Circuit’s decision last month is a victory for Alabama taxpayers and confirms the state’s right to structure its own tax system free of federal intervention,” said Isaacson. “We commend Attorney General Strange and his team for their tireless efforts to defend Alabama.” The appeals court also stated the request to overturn Alabama’s caps on millage rates would not necessarily raise new revenue since voters in the plaintiffs’ counties have previously defeated efforts to raise property taxes. The three-judge panel of the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments in December 2012. Senior Judge R. Lanier Anderson, Judge Adalberto Jordan and Senior U.S. District Judge D. Brock Hornby of Maine presided over the case. n

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Corcoranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heritage Helps Hone Leadership Skills

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FEBRUARY 2014

By Debra Davis

“Young farmers look different from 20 years ago,” she said. “Young farmers are in the classroom as teachers; they’re working at the Natural Resources Conservation (NRCS) office; they’re stay-athome moms. I want us to reach out to all those as well as traditional farmers and find more groups if they’re out there. I want them all to be a part of what we’re doing.” When Corcoran isn’t working to recruit new young farmers, she runs a fruit and vegetable farm with

unnoticed. Serving on the Federation’s State Horticulture Committee, she’s made Horticulture Diviarbour County’s sandy loam sion Director Mac Higginbotham soil grows more than peanuts, one of her fans. corn and cotton. The area “Allie is a perfect example of produces leaders, particularly in the our heritage and what our future Corcoran family and especially for holds,” Higginbotham said. “Allie the Alabama Farmers Federation. and her family’s agricultural hisAllie Corcoran, 26, was elected tory bring a wealth of knowledge chairman of the Federation’s State and understanding to the challenges Young Farmers Committee at the farmers face. Her dedication to 92nd annual meeting in December. agriculture is evident in her ability She grew up attending Federation to network and communicate. She’s meetings with her family and joins always eager to share her expea long line of leaders named rience with those outside of Corcoran. Her father, Walt agriculture, and that’s invaluCorcoran, is a former state able.” Young Farmers chairman and Corcoran works part time former Barbour County Federaat the Barbour County NRCS tion president. Her grandfather, office, and the farm keeps her the late Sonny Corcoran, was busy. However, she is keenly Barbour County president and focused on goals for young her grandmother, Ann, was farmers across the state. active in the Women’s Divi“I want us to have more sion. district Young Farmer meet“When we were young, my ings that allow members from sister, Cassie, and I always nearby counties to get to know went to Alfa meetings and one another,” she said. “My trips,” Corcoran said. “I ultimate goal is to have a became really active in Young Young Farmers Committee in Farmers while I was a student every county, even if it starts at Auburn University, and I’ve with a single member. I want been involved for almost 10 our members to be engaged and years now.” active, and I see our state comCorcoran served as the mittee as facilitators of that.” District 7 representative for the Corcoran’s enthusiasm Young Farmers State Comkicks up a notch when she mittee for two years and last talks about friends she’s made year was State Committee vice across Alabama and beyond chairman. She is a member of through Young Farmers activithe Agricultural Leaders For ties and the experience she’s Alabama (A.L.F.A.) class that Young Farmers Chairman Allie Corcoran, left, with her sister, gained. She said it’s helped will graduate later this year. Cassie Young, and her children Sterling, 8 months, and Gardner, 3. develop her organization and However, she said attending leadership and new skills. the American Farm Bureau her sister Cassie Young, 29, called “Speaking in public is not Federation’s National Young FarmBackyard Orchard, just north of something I was comfortable ers and Ranchers Conference in Eufaula on U.S. Highway 431. The with,” Corcoran said, “but talking Phoenix, Ariz. last year was pivotal sisters grow strawberries, blueabout agriculture and farming is in her decision to seek the state berries, peaches and a variety of something I’m passionate about. chairmanship. vegetables. They’re expanding the It’s important that I share my story. “That meeting showed me that farm to include agritourism with The Young Farmers helped me get by working with others, I can cona new barn-style country store. It better at that and tons of other nect with people and reach out to will function as a retail outlet, resthings. I learn something new all groups to make us all stronger,” taurant and kitchen, and office and the time by talking to other young Corcoran said. “It was an opportumeeting room. farmers. I want more young farmers nity for me to really think outside Corcoran’s horticulture talents to have the same opportunities I’ve the box and see what could be and leadership ability haven’t gone had.” n accomplished. Photo by Caleb Hicks

FEBRUARY 2014

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Residents Save Money On Weather Safety Essentials

By Melissa Martin

or other materials specifically designed to protect windows; food and water storage containers; non-electric can openers; ice products including artificial ice, blue ice, ice packs and reusable ice; self-contained first aid kits; fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors; and gas or diesel fuel containers. A single purchase of any portable generator of $1,000 or less is also exempt. Alabama Emergency Management Agency (EMA) Director Art Faulkner said it’s important to prepare well in advance of severe weather events. “Following the devastating tornadoes in the spring of 2011, the governor worked with legislators to help citizens be prepared in the future,” Faulkner said. “The resulting tax holiday places a focus on items needed following a disaster. It enables citizens to build disaster response kits at a reduced cost.” Faulkner said the SAF-T-Net mobile alert is another service citizens can use to be better equipped for severe weather. “In an effort to provide timely and accurate information, Baron Services graciously provided the Alabama SAF-TNet to the people of Alabama for free,” he said. “It’s a notification service that uses land lines, mobile phones and smartphone apps to notify subscribers of severe weather threats. I strongly encourage people to have multiple methods of severe weather notification.” The free SAF-T-Net mobile app is available for iPhone and Android users. To learn more about the service, visit AlabamaSAFTNet.com. For more information on the Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, contact the State Department of Revenue Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at (334) 242-1490 or 866-576-6531. n

evere weather has plagued Alabama residents in recent years, stripping roofs from homes and leaving communities without power for days. Calamities are neither avoidable nor easy to endure, but the State Department of Revenue is offering a tax break this month on disaster preparation essentials that could help lessen the burden. The 2014 Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, observed Feb. 21-23, marks the third time Alabama has offered the promotion to residents and coincides with Severe Weather Awareness Week, Feb. 16-21. It’s a benefit one elected official is especially pleased to offer residents. “The bottom line is this sales tax holiday can help save lives,” Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley said. “We want to encourage people to stock up on supplies that will help them safely weather a storm and its aftermath. Whether it’s a tornado, a hurricane, or even an ice storm, we must all be prepared for whenever severe weather strikes.” The tax-free holiday weekend applies to Alabama’s state sales tax; however, some counties and municipalities may also exempt local taxes. For a list of participating counties, visit www.revenue.alabama. gov/salestax/WPholiday.cfm. Qualifying tax-exempt purchases under $60 include batteries; cellphone chargers; portable self-powered or battery-powered radios including NOAA weather radios; portable light sources including flashlights, lanterns and emergency glow sticks; tarps, plastic sheeting and other flexible, waterproof sheeting products; bungee cords and tie-downs; duct tape; plywood, window film

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Gerald & Beverly Aplin Geneva County Geneva County residents looking for local produce know they don’t have to travel far to find it. Gerald and Beverly Aplin of Slocomb have grown and sold a variety of fruits and vegetables on their farm for decades. “We’re proud we’ve been able to stay in the farming business all these years,” said Gerald Aplins, who also raise cattle. “We’ve been blessed to weather the storms and get a lot of help from our family.” The Aplins grow tomatoes, strawberries, pumpkins and peanuts, among other crops. The public can purchase harvested produce or do U-pick. The Aplins host agritourism attractions in the fall, including hayrides, corn mazes, sunflower fields and demonstration barns. Gerald said despite challenges over the years, being a farmer is what defines him. “If I started over again, knowing everything I know about how tough farming can be, I would still do it because I like it that much,” he said.

FEBRUARY 2014

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Cattle Prices H Continue Drive Upward

By Debra Davis e’s only 28 years old, but Lowndes County cattleman Randall Pringle said he’s never seen cattle prices so good. History shows he’s right. Cattle herds across the U.S. have declined as back-to-back droughts in the South were followed by droughts in the Midwest. Corn prices skyrocketed. Hay was in short supply. Many farmers were forced to liquidate their herds. But for those like Pringle, who managed to hold on, the rewards are rolling in. “You can really make money just selling calves right off their mamas,” said Pringle, who owns 300 head of brood cows with his uncle, L.R. Pringle. “When you’ve got weaned calves bringing the same thing 600-pound stocker calves were bringing a couple

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FEBRUARY 2014

years ago, it doesn’t make sense to me to hold them.” Heifers are an exception to that line of thinking, Pringle said., adding he’s keeping some to expand his herd. “It’s hard for me to think about how much money they’d bring,” he said of the young cows. “But I’m looking at them as a long-term investment. Prices are going to be good for a while, I think.” Most Alabama cattle farms are like Pringle’s. Referred to as “cow-calf operations,” calves are sold at weaning, mostly through public auction. Alabama Farmers Federation Beef Director Nate Jaeger predicts lower feed costs and relief from several years of drought will fuel expansion of herds. “Cow-calf farmers as well as stockers (farmers who raise mid-weight calves) should enjoy high prices in 2014,” Jaeger said. “This will be due to even smaller supplies of feeder calves and lower feed costs. Availability of feeder calves (those weighing about 750 pounds) will remain tight, as heifer retention in 2014 continues to climb.” The only lingering question on the minds of some cattle analysts is whether consumer demand will erode as higher beef prices hit grocery stores. Jaeger said exports in 2014 should continue to be bullish for beef, with the biggest market being the Greater China region. The Jan. 1, 2013, inventory of beef cows was the lowest in 60 years, and numbers are expected to be even lower in the annual report due out in late January. If the trend continues, it would be the eighth consecutive year of declining cow numbers, resulting in fewer feeder cattle and calves next year. Five years ago, USDA reported fed cattle weighing 1,200 pounds averaged 93 cents a pound; calves averaging 550 pounds typically bought $1.15 per pound. Feeder steers weighing 750 pounds averaged $1.02. Last year, fed cattle averaged $1.26 per pound, calves were $1.67, and feeders averaged $1.48, accordFEBRUARY 2014

Randall Pringle of Lowndes County and his 7-year-old son, Elijah “Tuff,” worked together to feed and check cows on a rainy January day.

ing to CattleFax, a marketing information service for the beef cattle industry. Some analysts are predicting prices will set new records this year as well. Pringle said he hopes they’re right. “Prices may level out in five or six years as people return to the cattle business and begin to grow their herds,” he said. “But even then, I think it will be good. I’m sure going to enjoy it while I can. I’m lucky we were already in the cattle business, although it was tough making it through the drought. It’d be mighty expensive to get in the cow business right now.” n 17

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Photo by Caleb Hicks

Byrd Brings Attitude Of Service To State Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leadership Committee

FEBRUARY 2014

By Debra Davis

Houston, Ga. Sons, Steven, 32, and Brian, 36, now manage the farm. Brian and his wife, Kendra, have two children, Bailey, 9, and Brock, 8. “I’m used to a busy schedule, but wanted to be sure I had time to fulfill my commitment as chairman,” Byrd said. “My friend, Gloria Jeffcoat, (a former state committee chairman from Houston County) encouraged me to take a more active role on the State Committee and urged me to seek the chairman-

Dale County Women’s Committee Chairman Frankie Davis nominated Byrd for the charimanelping others has been a lifeship position. She said she’s confilong calling for Sharon Byrd dent her long-time friend will be an of Dale County, the new state excellent leader. chairman of the Alabama Farmers “Sharon only puts her family Federation Women’s Leadership ahead of her service to the Farmers Committee. Federation,” said Davis, a two-term Success as a nurse, farm wife, chairman of the State Women’s mother and church leader were Committee. “Sharon is very capagood training for her leadership role ble of making all the ladies in our in the state’s largest farm organizastate proud.” tion. Although goals for the State “I’m excited about this year and Women’s Leaderwhat the Women’s ship Committee Leadership Comhaven’t been formittee can accommally established plish,” said Byrd, for the year, Byrd who was elected in said she has some December. “We have personal goals. some very talented, “I’d really like hard-working women to see the Women’s on our state comLeadership program mittee and in our expand and have an county organizations. active committee They are inspiring.” in every county,” Byrd, who lives in she said. “It can be Ariton, was elected to hard to get people serve a one-year term involved these days, as state committee but if we convince chairman during the them to give it a Federation’s 92nd try, I think they’ll annual meeting in find it rewarding.” Montgomery. She is While she serving her second talks about being three-year term as inspired by otha state committee ers, State Women’s member. Leadership DiviGrowing up, her sion Director Kim father’s military Ramsey said Byrd career required Byrd’s family to move freState Women’s Committee Chairman Sharon Byrd and her husband, Jerry, with their sons, is an inspiration to those around her. quently. They moved Brian and Steven, on their farm in Dale County. “Sharon is back to his homeship.” highly organized and always pretown of Ariton when he retired in With several years experience pared for anything we are doing,” 1967. It was there Byrd met her Ramsey said. “Her level head and future husband, Jerry, who dreamed as Dale County Women’s Leadership Committee chairman, folwords of wisdom are constants of owning a farm. After 42 years of lowed by service as State Women’s on our committee, and I have marriage, their dream farm grew Leadership Committee secretary, noticed the ladies across Alabama from 100 acres to more than 1,200 then vice chairman, Byrd was well value the comments Sharon shares where they raise peanuts, cotton, trained to assume her new role. with them. Sharon’s sweet spirit, corn, wheat and beef cattle. “Following leaders like Debbie thoughtful disposition and joyous Byrd’s face lights up when she Freeland, Gloria Jeffcoat, Rita Garattitude will prove to be key eletalks about her children, and her rett, Faye Dial and others, makes ments during her leadership for the smile broadens when she talks this a special honor for me,” Byrd Women’s Division this year. We are about spoiling her grandchildren. said of her predecessors. “They are looking forward to a wonderful and Her daughter, Michelle Ridgway, inspiring, talented women.” productive 2014.” n 41, and her husband, Joe, live in

FEBRUARY 2014

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Neal Kelly

Tallapoosa County Federation President Neal Kelly has loved the outdoors since childhood, but the Tallapoosa County Farmers Federation president gained a greater appreciation for agriculture when he purchased land in 1971. “Farming exemplifies the outstanding promise God has given us. Where there is death, there is also life,” said Kelly, 61, who serves on the Federation’s State Hay & Forage Committee. Along with farming and woodworking, Kelly served in the U.S. Army and worked for the State Department of Transportation. He has cultivated red and white oaks on his land for more than 40 years. Today, Kelly raises cattle, hay and hardwoods on his 110-acre farm, which also houses a wood mill. Kelly insists there’s no place he’d rather be than the country. “I wouldn’t trade farm life for anything,” he said. Kelly has a son, Jeremey, and a 12-year-old grandson, Harrison.

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FEBRUARY 2014

Alabama’s Hegemans Appointed To National YF&R Committee

ormer Alabama Farmers Federation State Young Farmers Committee Chairman Jon Hegeman is taking on a new leadership role along with his wife, Amy. The couple was named to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) national Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Committee. “We’re proud to represent our state on a national stage and are looking forward to networking with others,” Jon said. The Hegemans’ two-year term begins in March. They are among 16 committee members who represent all regions of the U.S. and are responsible for YF&R program planning. Jon said the appointment will be a learning experience, but his main goal is establishing a dialogue with young farmers in states they will represent. “Communication will be crucial to getting more people involved

Jon and Amy Hegeman of Calhoun County will serve on the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee. They are pictured with their daughter, Ella Kate.

in the organization,” he said. “We learned that with state contests in Alabama, and it translates to the national level.” The Hegemans have green-

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Thinking Outside The Shell Gulf Shores chef creates soup using Baldwin County boiled peanuts By Jillian Clair

Lucy B Goode is owned by Lucy Buffett, who is famous for her restaurant LuLu’s at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

immie Fidler of Baldwin County is accustomed to being praised for his super jumbo peanuts, but a chef making a soup with them was a first. “Down here, there are peanuts growing everywhere,” said Chef Randall Baldwin of Lucy B Goode, a Gulf Shores restaurant committed to using only locally grown fruits and vegetables on its menu. “I’m a huge fan of boiled peanuts, but you can’t serve boiled peanuts in a restaurant. So I thought, ‘How do I take this and put it somewhere else on the menu?’” And so the peanut soup was born. Baldwin boils Fidler’s peanuts and purees them with caramelized Vidalia onions and bacon. The warm soup is topped with a single boiled peanut and a dollop of crème fraîche. “A lot of people would never think of peanut soup, but I think 22

it’s really cool,” Baldwin says. “It’s one of those things you won’t see in many places.” Fidler had never heard of peanut soup, but said he was honored a chef would make something so creative with his product. When Baldwin wanted to take a tour of the farm where the peanuts were grown, Fidler happily obliged. Fidler, 72, has been farming in Silverhill since 1963. He began growing his famous peanuts in 1997 after receiving 300 seeds for what are known as his signature Fidler Golden Delicious jumbo green peanuts from a friend in North Carolina. He also grows the smaller Virginia variety of peanuts, which are great for roasting. In Baldwin County, there are more than 20,000 acres of runner peanuts, which are used to make peanut butter and oil, however, Fidler’s 110 acres of peanuts are all grown to be enjoyed whole, either roasted or boiled. He markets them FEBRUARY 2014

directly to customers who visit his farm. They are also sold at grocery stores, farmers markets and even large chains like Wal-Mart. Fidler says his marketing success is all about sales techniques — being available and keeping customers happy. “I quit school before I finished the 10th grade, but I learned how to sell to people,” Fidler says. “And we make them happy, no matter what it takes.” Fidler and his son, Jamie, handle the staggered planting and harvesting that allows them to have fresh peanuts from August to October, but Fidler is the marketing and customer service master. His cellphone is the business phone, and he answers hundreds of calls daily during peanut season. “If I don’t answer one of them, they might not come by and get peanuts,” he said. Baldwin said visiting farmers gives him a greater respect for what they grow. “It’s not just going and picking it up from the farmers market, it’s going to meet the farmer and building that relationship,” Baldwin says. “Mr. Fidler has spent so much time and effort producing these peanuts, we want to have as much care and respect for our food as he has for his product. “You can tell the cooks in the kitchen about him and how passionate he is, and they will have more respect for it. Then the servers can pass that passion along to the customers. Meeting the farmer face-to-face really builds that trust FEBRUARY 2014

Baldwin County farmer Jimmy Fidler, left, and Chef Randall Baldwin enjoy jumbo peanuts grown on Fidler’s farm near Silverhill. The peanuts are the main ingredient in boiled peanut soup at Lucy B Goode, a new restaurant near Gulf Shores that uses locally grown fruits and vegetables on its menu.

from farm-to-table, which is what we’re all about.” Lucy B Goode opened in August 2013. It is owned by Lucy Buffett, who is famous for her high-volume restaurant LuLu’s at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores. Buffett said she always wanted to create a smaller, more upscale restaurant, and after the 2010 oil spill, she wanted to support the local economy by focusing on Gulf seafood and locally grown produce. She began buying from local suppliers for LuLu’s years ago, but 23

farmers are front and center at her new restaurant. A large chalkboard on the restaurant’s wooden walls lists the names of farmers whose products are being served that day. The menu changes based on seasonal availability. “I think it’s really important for us to help farmers,” Buffet said. “I’m always trying to get the best ingredients. Having the freshest ingredients is going to make every dish better, and I’m all about taste.” n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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Forever Wild To Hold Public Listening Sessions

he Alabama State Lands Division has scheduled three public listening sessions to help develop a longrange plan for the Forever Wild Land Trust program. The plan will outline goals for future land acquisitions, activities hosted on Forever Wild lands and activities of the Forever Wild Land Trust Board. The sessions begin at 6 p.m. with an Meeting Dates and Locations overview of the ForJan. 23 at the Jackson Center — ever Wild Land Trust 6001 Moquin Dr., Huntsville program, followed by Feb. 20 at the Five River Delta public comments. Resource Center — 30945 Five “These meetings are Rivers Blvd., Spanish Fort an opportunity for vot- Feb. 27 at the Shelby Campus of ers to discuss Forever Jefferson State Community Wild and provide input College — 4600 Valleydale Rd., about its future,” said Birmingham Alabama Farmers Federation Governmental and Agricultural Programs Department Director Brian Hardin. “We appreciate the Forever Wild Board of Directors for providing greater transparency in the administration of this program. We encourage Farmers Federation members to share their ideas about how Forever Wild can achieve its original mission to conserve unique and environmentally sensitive lands without infringing on private property rights or taking farmland out of production.” Written comments may also be submitted online at alabamaforeverwild.com/index.php/five-year-plan. n

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FEBRUARY 2014

Swiss Chard, parsley, and kale mix with pansies and other ornamentals in the corner of this planting bed.

By Lois Chaplin

so put them in a sunny place where they can remain undisturbed. Chive blossoms are a beautiful addition to salads. Growing salad greens is very easy, especially when using transplants. They are ready to be picked soon after planting, especially if fertilized regularly to encourage new growth. However, they are also wellliked by deer and bunnies, so be prepared to protect them. Fortunately, because they are small plants, it is easy to make a cover from chicken wire or other fine wire. One great thing about salad greens is they do not need as much sun as tomatoes or other summer crops, so gardeners who have only partial sun can still grow them. This time of year, many of the trees are leafless, allowing more sun through to the ground or containers. Greens work very well in containers because the plants are neat and relatively small. They also mix well with flowers such as pansies, which also have edible blooms. The Summit Shopping Center in Birmingham is a great example of mixing greens and flowers with its container displays of hardy greens, herbs and pansies along walkways in the fall, winter and spring. Take a close look and learn from the combinations in these beautiful planters. So, brush off the trowel and set out a few greens in the garden. Friends and family may say, “Wow, I’m not used to lettuce with flavor.” n _____________________________________

rowing the ingredients for a tasty salad is amazingly easy. To quote a friend, “I’m not used to lettuce with flavor!” For those who have never tried their hands at raising greens, now is as good a time as any to start. It only takes a few plants in a container or a small bed—even the edge of a flower bed—to produce bowls full of tasty leaves rich in flavors, colors and nutrients for memorable salads. The same plants can be grown again in the fall, when the growing season is even longer. In late winter and early spring, the seeds and plants of these cool-weather greens are widely available for an early garden. Now is the prime time to plant, while there are still several weeks of optimal weather. Lettuces, endive, arugula, radicchio, kale, mustard and Swiss chard are just a few of the large assortment from which growers can choose. The plants tolerate light frosts and continue bearing until heat and longer days trigger flowering. When greens start stretching tall and bloom, the leaves will taste bitter. At that point, it’s time to replace them with tomatoes or other warm-weather crops. The length of the greens growing season is temperature-dependent. In 2013, spring was unusually late and greens lasted through mid-May. Normally, they’re spent by mid- to late-April in central Alabama. There are also a couple of must-have herbs for the salad bowl: parsley and chives. Parsley planted in spring will last until the following spring. Chives can live for many years in the garden if they are happy,

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

SAVINGS FOR THE HOME AND FARM. WWW.ALAFARM.COM FEBRUARY 2014

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indaKaye Carmack of Center Point fondly remembers her childhood days in Paris Island, S.C., where one of her favorite activities was catching bees in fields of fragrant clover. “I was always interested in insects, but bees were my favorite,” she said. Those memories captured a sense of wonder that stayed with her into adulthood and led to a lifechanging hobby. Originally from Mobile, LindaKaye saw a flier for a one-night introduction class on beekeeping at a local college. “I thought it would be fun. I’d meet some other people who liked bees, maybe learn enough to take up the hobby and make a little money, too,” explained LindaKaye. “I got my first bees in the mid’90s. I used to take a rocking chair out to the hives and sit and rock while I watched and listened to them,” she recalled. Now, LindaKaye and her husband, Jimmy, whom she met at a beekeeping convention, have more than 100 honey bee hives. “We’re called sideliners. We’re more than hobbyists, but we’re not professional beekeepers either,” she explained, adding that she and Jimmy provide all the care for their hives. “And I still find them as fascinating today as when I first started,” she said. “Bees really are my passion. A hive is a whole world in itself, and they are not at all a welfare society. They all have work to do, and they’re all busy in some task.” LindaKaye said one of her main goals in sharing her love of bees is making people aware that bees are not as dangerous as reputed. “Bees are not mean, and they are not really out to sting you,” she said. “I rarely wear anything more than a beekeepers veil when we work the hives. One or two guard bees may get their stripes in a wad, as I call it, but bees don’t even recognize someone is messing with them most of the time.” While she loves her time with her bees, LindaKaye also enjoys cooking, though she admits honey was an acquired taste for her.

“It’s so much bolder and more flavorful than sugar,” LindaKaye said. “Anytime you add honey to a recipe, you’re adding flavor and sweetness. It won’t crisp the way sugar does when baked. I like it best in preparing sauces for meats. Honey can be drizzled over ham during the last half-hour of baking to add flavor and a golden glaze. I also drizzle honey on chicken and salmon before baking for a wonderful, rich flavor.” Each recipe LindaKaye shares this month contains honey, from the breakfast staple of blueberry muffins to the dinner entrée of Honey Chicken and Rice. And for those longing for weather warm enough to fire up the grill, her recipe for spareribs can be made in the crock pot until spring temperatures return. n

O r d e r Yo u r C o o k b o o k To d a y ! w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

w w w. Fa r m i n g Fe e d s A l a b a m a . c o m 28

FEBRUARY 2014

Honey Biscuits 1/3 cup butter ½ cup honey ¼ cup brown sugar 2 cups self-rising flour Pinch of salt 1 egg, lightly beaten ½ cup sugar

Preheat oven to 350F. In a small saucepan, melt butter and honey over medium heat. Remove from heat and cool. Combine cooled honey butter with brown sugar, flour, salt and egg. Stir well. Make 1 ½- 2-inch balls of dough; then dredge in sugar. Place on a greased baking dish or iron skillet, leaving space between each biscuit. Bake 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown. Tops will crackle. Cooled biscuits may be stored in an airtight container for several days. Orange Honey Butter ½ cup butter, softened to room temperature ¼ cup honey 1 tablespoon grated orange zest 2 cups fresh orange juice

In a mixing bowl, whisk butter and honey until creamy. Stir in orange zest. Whisk in orange juice, and whip until creamy. Refrigerate several hours. Spread over bagels, croissants or fresh-baked rolls. Sparerib Honey Glaze 1 cup tomato sauce ¼ cup lightly packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar ¼ teaspoon allspice ½ cup honey ¼ cup onion, finely diced 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 3 pounds spareribs 1 teaspoon ground mustard or ¼ cup prepared mustard

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over low heat, stirring constantly. Brush sauce over ribs several times during grilling or baking. For the Crock-Pot, cook ribs on low 8 hours. Drain nearly all liquid from ribs; pour on honey sauce and cook 1 hour.

Blueberry Muffins ¼ cup butter, softened ¼ cup honey ¼ cup sugar 1 egg 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1/3 cup milk 1 cup blueberries

Preheat oven to 375F. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter, honey and sugar. Blend in egg. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Add to butter mixture. Add milk, stirring to combine. Fold in blueberries. Spoon batter into lightly greased standard size 12-count muffin tin. Bake 20 minutes. Honey Baked Beans 4 slices bacon, diced ½ cup coarsely chopped onions 4 ½ cups canned navy beans ½ cup honey ½ cup ketchup 1 tablespoon prepared mustard (or more to taste) 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Preheat oven to 350F. Fry bacon in a small skillet and reserve a tablespoon of grease. Remove bacon; add onion to rendered grease and cook until tender. Combine bacon, onion and remaining ingredients in a 9- by 13-inch baking dish. Stir to combine. Cover and bake 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 45 minutes. Check periodically to avoid overcooking.

Sweet Potatoes In Honey 6 medium sweet potatoes ¼ cup honey ¼ cup orange juice with pulp, or juice of 1 orange Dash of salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Peel potatoes and cut lengthwise into ¼-inch slices. Cook in a medium pan of boiling water 15 minutes. Potatoes will not be cooked through. Drain potatoes and place in a greased 9- by 13- inch baking dish. Stir together remaining ingredients in a small bowl, and pour over potatoes. Bake 30 minutes. Note: Lemon juice may be substituted for orange juice. Honey Chicken and Rice ½ cup honey 1/3 cup Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1-2 tablespoons curry powder 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 (16-ounce) bag fresh baby carrots Hot cooked rice

Combine honey, mustard, soy sauce and curry powder in a bowl. Arrange chicken and carrots in a 9by 13-inch baking dish. Pour honey mixture over chicken and carrots. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. Preheat oven to 350F. Bake chicken covered for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake 15 minutes. Serve over rice. n

Honey Mustard ½ cup honey ½ cup prepared mustard, Dijon or spicy Tabasco, to taste, optional

Mix together and serve with cooked chicken. Note: Add 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, black pepper and cayenne pepper, optional, to create a dipping sauce for wings or toasted garlic bread.

Visit www.AlfaFarmers.org for more recipes. Recommend a favorite cook who is a member of the Alabama Farmers Federation by emailing AlabamaCountryKitchen@gmail.com.

FEBRUARY 2014

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