February 2021 | Volume 46 | Number 2 Debra Davis | Editor Marlee Moore | Associate Editor Laura Unger | 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 Jon Hegeman | Vice President | Central, Anniston George Jeffcoat | Vice President | Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper | Vice President | Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn | Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn | Hillsboro Mark Byrd | Danville John Bert East | Leesburg Tim Whitley | Horton Joe Anders | Northport Phillip Hunter | Birmingham Joe Lambrecht | Wetumpka Jimmy Holliman | Marion Junction Bill Cook | Montgomery Steve Stroud | Goshen Mark Kaiser | Seminole Thomas Adams | Newville Kathy Gordon | Dadeville Brady Peek | Athens 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. POSTMASTER Send address changes to Neighbors P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001 MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com 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.
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In This Issue 4 | Peek Elected To Lead
Fellow Young Farmers
28 | Comforting Fare For Cold Winter Days
7 | Port Of Mobile Prepares
For Upcoming Expansion
14 | Federation Sets Priorities For Legislative Session
23 | Bait Privilege License Protects State’s Hunters
4
16
On The Cover
Farmers foster connections with followers on social media. Their posts show the everyday aspects of farm life, such as Dan Wendland tagging calves at Autauga Farming Co. Photo By Marlee Moore
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www.AlfaFarmers.org
EDQAM A member of American Farm Bureau Federation
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Peek Prepared To Lead Young Farmers By Marlee Moore rady Peek puts his cherry-red GMC B pickup in park. Sporting a black vest with the State Young Farmers
Committee logo, the 28 year old steps into brisk winter air, already anticipating next year’s corn crop growing tall on the rolling fields of Ridgeway Place. “This is my favorite place on Earth,” said Peek, referring to the Limestone County farm his grandfather pieced together over a lifetime. “It ties back so much to what I do.” Peek grows corn, cotton, soybeans and wheat around Athens. He was also
elected by fellow growers to lead the Alabama Farmers Federation State Young Farmers Committee in 2021. As chair, he’ll work alongside 10 other 18to 35-year-olds from across the state. He’ll also serve a one-year, ex-officio term on the Federation state board. “I want to keep everyone as excited about Young Farmers as I am,” he said. “Networking is one of the most important things I’ve gotten out of Young Farmers. I can learn something from everyone out there. We all face the same general obstacles.” Peek is a second-generation State Young Farmers Committee chair (his
dad, Jeff, served in 1991). The young farmer grew up on the Federation meeting circuit. Peek’s December birthday regularly falls during the organization’s annual meeting, and by age 16, he was attending Limestone County Young Farmers events. “Growing up, there was nothing I wanted to do more than farm,” he said. His dream came with challenges. Peek’s family transitioned from row crop farming to equipment sales in the early 2000s. Perseverance, persistence and participation in FFA led Peek back to row crops through a Supervised Agricultural Experience. In 2010, he planted 100 acres of soybeans and helped a local farmer in exchange for using equipment. Throughout the next decade, Peek made strides to build his farm. “I would buy a tractor in the spring, put my crop in and then sell the tractor,” he said. “Trading helped keep the financial ball rolling.” Today, Peek and wife Anna raise 1,600 acres of crops. They’ve improved efficiency, increased irrigated acres and bought land of their own. They attend Oakland Church of Christ. The Peeks were friends in high school and started dating once he returned home with an Auburn University agronomy and soils degree
Brady Peek has been involved in Young Farmers since he was 16 and has competed in state contests, including Discussion Meet.
Brady Peek and wife Anna raise 1,600 acres of corn, cotton, soybeans and wheat in Limestone County. He was elected to chair the State Young Farmers Committee for 2021. 4
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in hand. While at Auburn, Peek’s Young Farmers involvement continued to grow. He also served as College of Agriculture president. “I didn’t know how much went into
farming or how many farmers were in our area before I started dating Brady,” said Anna, 27, a fifth-grade teacher at Athens Intermediate School. “Farming can be isolating, and I’m amazed by how many people he’s met and keeps in contact with through Young Farmers.” Peek has represented District 1 on the State Young Farmers Committee since 2018. That area includes Colbert, Franklin, Lawrence, Lauderdale, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Morgan and Winston counties. He said he’s excited to learn more about how the Federation works to serve its 350,000 members. “I want to keep growing involvement and showcase opportunities in the organization. Until you get together with other people, it’s hard to build those friendships and relationships,” he said. “Since we’ve come out
of the first COVID year, we know a little more what to expect as we try to plan Young Farmers activities.” Peek wants to encourage county committees to grow. He said he supports safe, small events where young farmers can interact and talk one-onone. Federation Young Farmers Division Director Jennifer Christenberry said she looks forward to building on her relationship with Brady. “I first had the opportunity to work with Brady while he was involved in Auburn Young Farmers, and his passion for the Farmers Federation was evident, even then,” she said. “His roots are deeply grounded in this organization, and he has a great desire to see the Young Farmers program continue to grow. In a time as challenging as this, his passion will be a great benefit to the program in the upcoming year.” Peek is also a member of the Agricultural Leaders For Alabama (A.L.F.A. Leaders) Class V, an intensive leadership program Christenberry directs. Anna said she’s excited to see her husband lead on the state level. “He’ll get the job done,” she said. “Brady is a good leader. He’s kind. He’ll do whatever it takes and will do it in an honorable way.”
Fellow farmers elected Brady Peek as State Young Farmers Committee chair in 2021. In that role, he will work with10 other farmers from across the state to plan events, activities and leadership programs. He’ll also serve a one-year term on the state board.
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Expansion Positions Port Of Mobile As Global Trade Center By Debra Davis he historic Port of Mobile has T influenced the culture and economy of Alabama and the Gulf Coast for
over 300 years. An expansion set for completion by early 2025 will carve an even wider path of success for the area. “Taking our channel to 50 feet deep (from its current 45 feet) allows some of the world’s largest ships to enter our port,” said Alabama State Port Authority’s John C. Driscoll. “Larger ships provide capacity and economy of scale for Alabama businesses and drive down costs.” Dubbed the Alabama Seaport Modernization Program, the $365.7 million expansion project will deepen and widen the port. Driscoll, the port authority’s director and chief executive officer, said the expansion will transform the port into a globally competitive trade center. “More than 3 billion people are rising into the consumer class and seeking American products,” he said. “Alabama agriculture and other businesses will be in a position to take advantage of those growing markets through the port’s expansion. Investments in construction and technology at the harbor allow
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more goods to be moved faster In Alabama, Gov. Kay Ivey and the and efficiently, increasing the port’s Legislature secured Alabama’s financial opportunity for more customers.” obligation for the project through the Alabama’s deep-water seaport has Rebuild Alabama Act, which passed in business connections to all 67 counties March 2019. The act allocates a portion in Alabama, Driscoll of state fuel tax proceeds said. The port authority’s to support approximately terminals handle a variety $150 million in bonds of commodities including to meet the non-federal forestry products, grains, cost-share requirements feed, cotton and proteins for the project. — mostly poultry and Alabama Farmers peanuts. Private terminals Federation President at the port handle Jimmy Parnell praised fertilizers and chemicals. Shelby and Ivey for their Alabama’s booming coal, leadership, vision and aviation, automobile hard work in securing and retail distribution funding for the port Driscoll industries also play a expansion. pivotal role at the port. “Sen. Shelby and Gov. The port received approval of Ivey recognize our state and nation’s the project to widen and deepen economy are greatly enhanced through the harbor in September 2019. In market expansion and world trade,” February 2020, U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, Parnell said. “Agriculture, as well as R-Ala., a decade-long champion of other businesses and manufacturers, will the project, secured $377.7 million in be more competitive globally because federal funding for regional dredge of the Port of Mobile. This expansion demonstration programs in Alabama, increases our competitive advantage.” Mississippi and Louisiana. This program Deepening the channel was assures the harbor expansion receives preceded by nearly $1.3 billion in public its full $274.3 million to construct the seaport infrastructure at Alabama’s only project. deep-water port. Part of that overall February 2021
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The Port of Mobile is expanding its channel from 45 to 50 feet, which will allow some of the largest ships in the world to enter. The expansion is slated to wrap up by 2025 and will transform Alabama’s only deepwater port into a globally competitive trade center.
investment included $550 million in container intermodal investments that offered a new gateway for agribusiness shippers and ocean carriers. The container intermodal complex
first opened in 2008 and completed its third expansion in early 2020. The $50 million Phase III program extended the dock to accommodate two of the larger Post-Panamax ships
and expanded throughput by 25%, bringing the terminal’s annual capacity to 650,000 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units). Additional phases are planned that can deliver 1.5 million TEUs annual throughput capacity. The port authority and its partner, APM Terminals, have been successful in delivering investments that meet shipper demand. Also last year, MTC Logistics announced construction of the largest cold storage facility of its kind in the Southeast. The $61-million project, when completed in April 2021, will encompass 12 million cubic feet and expand blast freeze capability for poultry exports. Located outside the container terminal’s gates, the facility will accommodate 30 truckloads per day and provide 40,000 racked pallet positions of storage to meet demand for refrigerated cargo shippers. Additionally, the facility is expected to attract new shippers, which can provide back haul opportunities for carriers.
What does retirement look like? I recently retired from the NRCS after 34 years. I don’t know how we did everything before I retired. I work more now than when I had a “paying” job.
Pete Wheeler Pete Wheeler’s involvement with the Lowndes County Farmers Federation evolved through the years. He began attending meetings as a Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) district conservationist, was invited to serve on the board and is now president. The Auburn University ag engineering graduate is the fourth generation at Middle Creek Farms in Braggs, where they have 200 head of cattle. Wheeler, 60, and wife Zoe have three children, Jamie, Jake and Jimbo, and two grandchildren.
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What’s great about farm life? There is no better place to raise a family. Anyone who grows up on one, if they don’t know anything else, they know how to work. My ultimate goal is that farming can be full time for my boys.
What do you like about the Farmers Federation? You visit so many farms and can pick up on how people do things. They give farmers a voice on issues. They make no bones about it — they’re here for the farmers. They try to make our life better.
Who spends time with you on the farm? Every afternoon, as soon as my grandson gets off the bus, we ride around. Now I’m training him to open the gates! I bought my Australian shepherd, Chubb, the day I retired. The best thing is when I tell him to stop, he listens. alfafarmers.org
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Butler County Native Joins Federation Statehouse Team
reenville native Casey Rogers G brings experience in agriculture, politics, legislation and grassroots
membership to her new role with the Alabama Farmers Federation. She began her new role Jan. 11. Federation External Affairs Director Matthew Durdin said Rogers is a great addition to the organization’s public policy team. “Casey is perfect for director of State Legislative Programs,” Durdin said. “She is the daughter of a third-generation farm family and still lives on their Alabama Century and Heritage Farm. She has a vast knowledge of how government affects farming and life in rural Alabama. I’m excited to have Casey join our team and look forward to working with her to make a positive difference for our members.” A 2013 University of Alabama graduate, Rogers, 29, most recently served as field representative for U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery. She
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previously worked as communications specialist for Pioneer Electric Cooperative for four years and was communications director for Public Service Commissioner Jeremy Oden’s 2014 campaign. “I am no stranger to Alfa and the important role the Federation has historically played in transforming opportunities for the agriculture industry,” Rogers said. “Through my work in Rep. Roby’s Rogers office, I have seen firsthand the importance of legislators working alongside organizations for the benefit of members in our state. I believe because of my background, training and true passion that I can be a positive, hardworking contributor to the organization and our members.” While with Rep. Roby, Rogers
developed relationships with community, government and business leaders throughout the district. She also represented the Roby at events and worked to resolve constituent concerns and issues. Her work for electric cooperatives garnered her the prestigious Darryl Gates Communicator of the Year award for overall excellence in writing, design and production of internal and external communications; media relations; and coordinating Pioneer Electric Cooperative’s youth tour. Rogers serves on the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Advisory Board; is as past president of the Greenville Rotary Club; was team captain and recruitment chair for Butler County Relay for Life; and is on the Safe Harbor Children’s Advocacy Board. She is involved in a number of civic clubs and has coached youth sports.
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A Century Of Service The Alabama Farm Bureau Federation was founded in 1921 to give farmers a voice in local, state and national affairs. For a century, the group’s grassroots efforts have remained constant.
By Debra Davis century. One hundred years. A Ten decades. That’s how long the Alabama Farmers Federation has
represented farmers, giving them a voice in local, state and national affairs affecting their livelihood. While the organization focuses on the future of agriculture, it’s important to recognize and honor the past, especially in its centennial year. In 1921, Alabama Extension Service Director L.N. Duncan asked farmers, bankers and businessmen to form a farm organization. Those groups met Jan. 31 at Alabama Polytechnic Institute
Alabamian Edward O’Neal, pictured speaking in Chicago, served as American Farm Bureau Federation president from 1931-1947. 12
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(now Auburn University) and voted to form the Alabama Farm Bureau, now known as the Alabama Farmers Federation. The organization’s stated purpose was simple. “The object of this Federation shall be to effectively organize, advance and improve in every possible way the agricultural interests of the great commonwealth of Alabama, economically, educationally and socially through the united efforts of the county organizations of the state.” Two years prior, the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) formed in Chicago to give farmers a seat at the table with major economic players — business, manufacturing, railroads and labor. The relationship between Extension and Farm Bureau was mutually beneficial. Duncan sought to maximize Extension’s service and effectiveness while increasing benefits to farmers. County agents were a major force in organizing local groups, often collecting dues and soliciting memberships. Montgomery County, led by Charles W. Rittenour, was the first county to formally organize in April 1921. Rittenour was county president and was elected the first president of Alabama Farm Bureau. Annual dues were $10. Organizations soon formed in Lauderdale, Limestone, Hale, Calhoun, Autauga, Geneva and Baldwin counties.
It wasn’t long before Dale, Pickens, Lee, Pike and Colbert counties organized. In less than a year, 55 counties had united. Three years later, Wilcox County joined, formalizing memberships in all 67 counties. After successfully improving cotton prices by forming a marketing association in 1922, membership sprouted to 17,000. Growth prompted establishment of the organization’s first home office building in Montgomery in 1922. In 1923, Edward O’Neal III, the first president of the Lauderdale County Farm Bureau, was elected Alabama Farm Bureau president. The organization experienced exponential growth under his leadership, catapulting him to AFBF president in 1931, a position he held until 1947. Robert Croom served the remaining three months of O’Neal’s term as state president, followed by John Edwards (1931-38); William Howard Gray (1938-40); Walter Randolph (1940-61); J.D. Hays (1961-78) Goodwin L. Myrick (1978-1998); Jerry Newby (1998-2012); and Jimmy Parnell (2012-present). O’Neal’s political prowess parlayed into work with the nation’s highest government officials. Serving as AFBF president through the Great Depression and Dust Bowl, O’Neal developed a relationship with then newly elected U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt alfafarmers.org
Alabama Farm Bureau’s first home office was established in Montgomery in 1922 at 24 Commerce St. Now called the Alabama Farmers Federation, the organization’s headquarters are at 2108 E. South Blvd.
and convinced him to implement programs that benefit farmers today. O’Neal helped create the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933, the first farm bill, which helped end the Great Depression. While improving cotton prices was a catalyst to unite farmers, the Federation recognized Alabama’s agricultural diversity. It now represents 17 commodity divisions. AFBF was among the first national organizations to note the important role women have in agriculture and politics. It formed the first women’s committee in 1920, the same year the amendment giving women the right to vote was ratified. In the Federation, the first woman to hold state office was Mrs. John S. Morris of Talladega County, who
served on the Executive Committee in 1924. Now called the Women’s Leadership Committee, the group continues to be a source of strength for Alabama’s largest grassroots farm organization. Alabama began its Young Farmers Program in 1957 to develop farm and community leaders. Its success is evident by many current and former state Federation leaders and state political leaders who are program alumni. Improving the lives of Alabama farm families helped herald Alfa Insurance Co. In 1946, the state Federation formed an insurance company to write fire insurance on farm homes and buildings. Today, Alfa offers a full line of insurance products for customers in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. It covers more than 1.1 million cars, homes, farms, businesses and churches and has more than $30 billion of life insurance in force. Alfa offers non-standard auto coverage in 11 states through its Trexis
Insurance division. Through the insurance company, urban families began to recognize the value Federation members received from their insurance coverage and service. Membership swelled as non-farm members joined. Its strong membership ranked Alabama among the largest state Farm Bureaus. Alabama resigned from AFBF in 1981, dropping the Farm Bureau name and becoming the Alabama Farmers Federation. After a 24-year split, Alabama farmers voted to rejoin the national organization in 2005, bringing more than 400,000 family memberships and returning as one of the largest member states. When the Alabama Farm Bureau was organized 100 years ago, agriculture was the state’s largest industry. Agriculture and forestry continue to be a leading economic engine with an annual economic impact of $70 billion and 500,000 jobs. The Federation continues to “organize, advance and improve” life for Alabamians. Its strength is also the same — its members. Editor’s Note: Information for this story was gathered from a variety of sources, including the Federation’s 75th annual meeting program, Neighbors magazine, AFF archives, Auburn University archives, books, newspaper articles and personal accounts from members.
From livestock-led plows such as this one in Franklin County to high-tech modern equipment, agriculture has evolved through the years. So has the Alabama Farm Bureau, now the Alabama Farmers Federation. alfafarmers.org
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he Alabama Legislature is set to convene on Groundhog T Day, but the 2021 Regular Session won’t be a repeat of previous years.
New Senate leadership, social distancing and reinvigorated debate on gambling will make the Statehouse look and sound different when the state’s 140 legislators gather Feb. 2. “Following the COVID-shortened 2020 session, lawmakers and advocacy organizations are eager to get back to work,” said Alabama Farmers Federation External Affairs Director Matthew Durdin. “We look forward to working with leadership in both the Senate and House of Representatives to advance Federation policies and meet the needs of rural Alabama.” In the upper chamber, Sen. Greg Reed, R-Jasper, will take over as president pro tem, following a decision by Sen. Del Marsh, R-Anniston, to step down from the position he’s held 10 years. Sen. Clay Scofield, R-Guntersville, will fill Reed’s previous role as senate majority leader. Legislators will be greeted by a backlog of proposed legislation after the 2020 session, which saw only 16 non-appropriation bills pass out of 856 introduced. However, with COVID-19 still raging, House leadership already has announced changes to achieve social distancing. Representatives will be spread throughout the House chamber, gallery and overflow rooms and will vote using computer tablets. “Things will certainly look different, and we don’t know how these changes will impact public access to the Statehouse or legislative agendas,” Durdin said. “It makes the relationships cultivated by Federation members at the local level even more important. We will need to be even more engaged to make sure the voices of agriculture, rural Alabama and conservative values are heard by legislators.” Gambling is once again expected to be a hot debate topic when lawmakers meet. An 876-page report issued in December by Gov. Kay Ivey’s study group on gambling
policy examined the costs and potential revenue of legalized gambling. While the possibility of $500-700 million in revenue garnered headlines, the report also acknowledged immense social costs including crime, unemployment, bankruptcy, illness, suicide, domestic violence, child abuse, theft, undue political influence and increased dependence on social services. Other unfinished business from 2020 includes debate over medical marijuana and prison reform. Meanwhile, the Federation’s priorities include retaining funding in the Education Trust Fund and General Fund budgets for agricultural education, career and technical education, the Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) program, Sweet Grown Alabama agricultural brand, rural broadband, conservation programs and matching funds for on-farm irrigation. The Federation also will work to secure funding for the Alabama Rural Economic Center, a 500-acre, multi-use complex underway in Chilton County. The Federation will support legislation to reauthorize tax credits for job creation and economic development through Growing Alabama and the Alabama Jobs Act. Another important bill for business owners will be civil liability immunity against unwarranted lawsuits associated with the coronavirus. In addition, the Federation will work to expand the weight limit for forest product license plates to match provisions of surrounding states. Currently, trucks hauling forest products weighing over 42,000 are required to purchase a commercial registration. The organization also will work to lift the limit on the number of F-4 farm tags a producer may purchase and clarify that grain bins should be exempt from ad valorem tax under existing state exemptions. Follow the Federation’s social media channels during the session and check out the weekly Capitol Connection newsletter at Alfafarmers.org/CapitolConnection..
Legislature To Look Different In COVID Era
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Legal Notice To: Directors, officers, delegates and members of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association
You are hereby notified that the directors of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association, in accordance with Section 1, Article IV, of the By-Laws of the Association, has scheduled its annual meeting as follows: Time: 10 a.m. Thursday Feb. 4, 2021 Place: Showbarn Building #7 National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds Hwy. 231 South Dothan, Alabama
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Farmers Foster Connections On Social Media
By Marlee Moore ap. Swipe. Click. Scroll. T Just like that, followers across the country have a front row-seat to Alabama farm life, family adventures and food — all courtesy of Karah Skinner’s lens. The 32 year old is setting the bar high for farmers sharing the story of agriculture through social media. She and husband Kaleb put faces to farming for Rock House Farms’ more than 10,000 Instagram followers and 3,500 Facebook followers. For Skinner, letting followers experience life behind their Fruithurst farm gate is essential. “People want to know who their farmer is,” Skinner said. “It’s important to reach people about ag.” Throughout the day, Skinner captures smartphone snapshots of the family’s cattle, hog and poultry operation. Once back at her Cleburne County farmhouse, Skinner posts updates utilizing tools like Instagram Stories (which disappear every 24 hours) to lend an inside look into farming. Photos and videos mix up the content, which could include recipes incorporating Rock House Farms meat, adventures feeding animals or her kids tagging along in the side-by-side. She 16
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Karah Skinner documents daily life at Rock House Farms. She snaps photos and videos of kids playing, checking cattle and feeding pigs, then shares them with her 10,000-plus followers.
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Drew Wendland and the crew at Autauga Farming Co. give followers an inside look into row crop and cattle production. He and sister Katie Nichols have dreamed up interactive games like Corn College, where they showcased all stages of growing corn.
Rebecca Henry captures artsy images around Hardin Farms with her Canon camera. She then shares the farm life photos on Instagram through her account, @hardinfarmwife.
announces sales of meat, in addition this life may not be the easiest, we to selling merchandise like hats and definitely aren’t alone.” shirts. Farther south, the folks at Rebecca Henry sells Hardin Autauga Farming Co. take a team Farms apparel on Instagram (@ approach to sharing farm life on hardinfarmwife), too. She peppers Facebook and Instagram. Family posts with artsy images of animals, members chip in to manage puns and family photos, such as accounts and create posts of shots of her husband, Mitchell, beautiful skies, views from the talking shop with his grandfather. combine and newborn calves. She also shares agricultural facts “A lot of my friends know I’m relating to their Moulton-based a farmer, but they don’t know stocker operation. what that means,” said Drew Instagram has helped Henry Wendland. “When you live out foster community and camaraderie here, it’s isolating. I like to teach with farmers across the nation. people about how farms work on “It’s been neat to watch people a day-to-day basis.” who don’t know anything about Wendland and his sister, Katie farming ask questions and learn Nichols, collaborate on interactive from me and Mitchell,” said posts such as “Corn College,” Lawrence County’s Henry, noting where they walk through stages relationships she’s built with social of corn growth via Instagram influencers in the Midwest and Stories. Wendland has also given North. virtual tours of a combine rolling Social media is a creative outlet through harvest. for Henry, a full-time pharmacist. In neighboring Lowndes Mitchell gave his wife a camera for County, Daniel Rhyne uses a Christmas in 2019, and something selfie stick and GoPro camera to clicked. chronicle his view from the tractor “Originally, I just wanted to cab. The row crop farmer breaks share cute cow pictures,” she said. out a drone to capture aerial “I did not expect to find people I’d footage of planting, spraying connect with so well. Even though and harvesting. After a day in the alfafarmers.org
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Farms To Follow Nelson Cattle Co. Cute kids, catchy captions and artsy photos showcase cattle and hay in Jefferson County.
Rockin U Farm Watch as Jordyn Upchurch chases after her son Charlie and shows the ins and outs of cattle, hay and poultry production in Clay County.
Williams and Casaday Farms Row crops steal the show on this Talladega County farm, where Josie Williams takes followers from planting to harvest.
Gilmer Dairy Will Gilmer is a pro at giving insight into dairy production in Lamar County.
Hornsby Farms Fruit and veggie farming are front and center for this Lee County family. They chronicle adventures with their kids and partnerships with local restaurants.
Farmer Hunt First-generation farmer Ben Hunt gives viewers an inside look at Cleburne County poultry, hay and cattle production with video clips.
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Daniel Rhyne uses a GoPro and drone footage to compile videos chronicling his adventures as a row crop farmer, which he shares to Facebook and YouTube.
field, he edits time-lapse videos to share on the Triple R Farms Facebook and YouTube accounts. “I want to give everybody a look at what we do in Alabama because we have different types of commodities than farmers up north who share videos on YouTube,” Rhyne said. “The biggest comments we’ve received are from people who are amazed by what it takes to grow a crop.” Just like farming, running a farm social media account presents trials, error and challenges, Henry said. Last summer, she and Mitchell posted on Facebook about potentially selling freezer beef and had an overwhelming response. “I didn’t do an adequate job explaining what or how we were selling,” she said. “I received many messages asking for certain steak cuts or when we could ship meat to them. I had a lot of messages from people who did understand that we were actually selling half or whole calves, and those people were very happy with our pricing and product. It was a learning experience.” They also experienced some negative feedback for not selling solely grass-fed beef. “Mitchell responded and explained the differences and the benefits of our grass-fed but grain-finished product,” Henry said. “Some people still said they weren’t interested based on that. And
that’s OK.” Social media is all about inspiring those interactions, said Jeff Helms of the Alabama Farmers Federation. “Farmers are the best advocates for their way of life,” said Helms, the Federation’s Communications Department director. “Karah, Rebecca, Drew and Daniel are a handful of farmers who showcase the heartfelt and beautiful portrait of life on the farm. Opening that door for conversations can be daunting because people have questions — and they can be on touchy subjects, such as GMOs, antibiotic use and farm safety. But there’s no one more suited to quell their fears than a farmer.” Helms and his team manage the Federation’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter channels. Farmers are encouraged to use #FarmingFeedsAlabama or tag (@ alfafarmers), particularly on Instagram. To help farmers new to social media, Alabama Extension has compiled a guide at https://www.aces.edu/go/ farmconnect. The @autauga_farming_company account shares posts using the Federation’s hashtag, along with others like #Harvest2020, #FamilyFarms and #ThisIsFarming to connect consumers to the account. “This is a beautiful way to live,” Wendland said. “Sharing our story shows people that it has value.” alfafarmers.org
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I
DATE NIGHT
had a date tonight. My mother-inlaw cooked me a steak. A fat one. In one hand, she held her walker. In the other, a skillet. The meat made a lot of noise. “Gotta sear it good,” she explained. “Keeps all the juice in.” She baked potatoes and yeast rolls, too. We split a pitcher of sweet tea. I don’t know how she makes her tea, but when the roll is called up yonder, God better have his glass ready. My T-bone is perfect. Pink. Tender. My coonhound rests her snout on my lap, in case I feel like sharing. I’ve been in this family a long time. I’ve eaten my share of steaks at this table. I knew this woman when her hair still had color. Before the walker. On the day of my wedding, she greeted me before the ceremony. She and my wife’s aunt straightened my tux and fussed over me. “Hot awmighty,” said one. “Who put this tux on you, a wino?” “You’re a mess,” said the other. “Looks like you slept in your truck.” “Your shoes are filthy.” “Gimme that comb.” “Is this BARBECUE sauce on your collar?” “I Suwannee.” “I Suwannee, too.” Everybody Suwannee together now. After she’d trimmed my ear hair and cleaned the smudges from my face using her own spit, my mother-in-law said, “We’re so glad to have you in our
family.” Nobody had ever said anything like that to me. Anyway, we ate steak, she talked. Mostly about the old days. She spoke about times before smartphones and 24-hour political channels. An era when towns closed on Sundays. When men cut work to go fishing. She talked about her mother and how the woman was self-reliant. She could rescreen windows, raise chickens, stain floorboards and fix mechanical fans. “But she couldn’t cook to save her dadgum life." Dadgum. While she carried on, I was in another world. Her world. An old one we’ll never see again. One with turntables, sitting parlors, barefoot kids, fish fries and coffee made over open-flame stoves. After we finished eating, the oven buzzer went off. She hobbled to the kitchen, opened the oven. It was a made-from-scratch pie, she told me. Her best friend, Sara Lee, made it. She doled out slices and scoops of vanilla ice cream. “Lord, look at all this pie,” she remarked. “Feel like we oughta say another blessing over our food.” Why not. Dear Lord, thanks for the food. For steaks. And people who have the audacity to love me. ■
Columnist and novelist Sean Dietrich shares tales of common people, the human spirit, traditional regional music and life in the American South through his podcast series at SeanDietrich.com. 20
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what is the alabama farmers federation? it’s you.
Founded as Alabama Farm Bureau in 1921, the grassroots group emerged from the 1980s as the Alabama Farmers Federation. The name changed, but the mission stayed the same: Protecting the interests of farmers and rural Alabamians. Members like you. Through the years, the Federation has scored legislative victories, spurred economic development and founded Alfa Insurance, a $4 billion-company. It’s spread the news of agriculture and its bounty and fought to maintain the vision, values and voice of its members. After a century of service, the Alabama Farmers Federation is still plowing new ground — for you, with you and through you.
Enterprise Accountant Joins Federation Staff
n accountant with a background in agriculture joined the Alabama A Farmers Federation in January, filling an
opening left by the Feb. 1 retirement of 28-year employee Donna Guest. Coffee County native Richie Carr comes to the organization from Thompson, Walker and Associates LLC. “We are extremely pleased to welcome Richie to the Alabama Farmers Federation accounting team,” said Federation Chief Financial Officer Phillip Johns. “His years of experience with tax work, payroll processing and other accounting Carr work will help the Federation continue to run as successfully as it has for 100 years.” Carr worked with the Enterprise accounting firm since 2007. He previously was supervisor and agricultural manager at Phillip Martin Farms in Enterprise. Martin was a longtime Coffee County Farmers Federation president and previously served on the Federation state board of directors. Carr won the Coffee County Peanut Grower Award in 2006, and he and Martin received the Two-Ton Peanut Award in 2001. “Through my work in accounting and agriculture, I had to work with people from all walks of life to resolve problems in an efficient and fair manner,” Carr said. “I know that the smallest mistake in accounting can cost a client thousands of dollars. All information must be accurate.” Carr earned his associate degree from Enterprise State Junior College and his bachelor’s in accounting from Troy University Dothan. He is a deacon, Audit Committee chair and serves on the Finance Committee at Macedonia Baptist Church in Enterprise. Carr and wife Michelle have two daughters, Madelynn,18, and Leanna, 13.
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Hunters, Department Of Conservation Benefit From Bait Privilege License By Marlee Moore labama hunters have a new, A legal tool in their armory for a second year — the bait privilege license
issued by the Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (ADCNR). The license, $15 for in-state residents and $51 for out-of-state hunters, is required for private landowners, those under age 16 and hunters over 65, an exception to exemptions allowed for hunting and fishing licenses. License sales brought in over $2 million to ADCNR last year. The increase in funding allowed the Wildlife & Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) Division to meet budget requirements for the first time in four years. “Yes, we sold more licenses, and the bait privilege license brought in more money,” said ADCNR WFF Division Director Chuck Sykes. “Unfortunately, that’s where a lot of people let it go. We’re not flush with cash because of the bait privilege license. We were just able to meet the budget.” State dollars don’t fund ADCNR programs. Instead, the department relies on license sales and Pittman-
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Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act matching dollars, funded by an excise tax on sporting arms, handguns, ammunition and archery equipment. The Alabama Legislature passed the licensing requirements in April 2019 after years of public appeals to legalize hunting over bait. Despite Alabamians’ desire for the law, ticketed cases of hunting over bait without a license were down just 10% last year. Sykes said the choice is simple — pay $15 for a license or fork over hundreds of dollars for a ticket. “The sales show there are a lot of people who enjoy it, but it’s not mandatory,” Sykes said. “If you’re averse to baiting or feeding, you don’t have to do it. For me, I buy it as an insurance policy because now I don’t have to worry about hunting with friends who may or may not be feeding.” In the 2019-2020 season, 151,286 hunting licenses were sold. That same year, the were 158,211 bait licenses sold, and those were on track to increase this season. The license isn’t just required for hunting over corn. Using protein feeders, mineral blocks, juices and sprays necessitates the permit.
Alabama’s baiting license includes use of protein feeders, mineral blocks, juices and sprays, in addition to corn.
Alabama Farmers Federation Wildlife Division Director William Green said the once-controversial license has become a new normal. Hunting contributes $1.8 billion to Alabama’s economy annually. “Originally, there were two very differing opinions,” Green said. “Some people loved the idea of legally utilizing baits while others were adamantly opposed to it. After making it through two seasons with the option to use bait, I think the majority have warmed to the idea. It’s another tool to help outdoorsmen have a successful hunting season.”
Need a license?
Visit OutdoorAlabama.com or purchase from the local probate office. February 2021
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Alabama 4-H Volunteers Of The Year Make Irreplaceable Impacts On Alabama Youth
Vercilya Reece
Lee and Debbie Horton
Marci Batchelor
support from volunteers. Volunteers work cooperatively with families and Extension staff to provide a positive model of behavior for Alabama’s young people. “It is through the hard work of our volunteers that we can achieve great results each year,” said Molly Gregg, assistant director of Alabama 4-H. “Our volunteers empower Alabama’s young people with the skills to lead their communities and also grow into future leaders.”
About Alabama 4-H
David Ramey
Betsy Jordan
By Brittney Kimber olunteers make irreplaceable contributions to Alabama 4-H and V its efforts to better the lives of young
people. The 2020 4-H Volunteers of the Year were recently recognized at a program at the Alabama 4-H Center. “4-H volunteers guide members in becoming productive citizens, outstanding communicators, effective leaders and successful lifelong learners,” said Nancy Alexander, Alabama 4-H Extension specialist. “Their 4-H stories demonstrate how they each go above and beyond the call of duty to make an impact in their clubs and county.” During the last club year, more than 4,330 volunteers assisted local 4-H clubs. In addition, the volunteers contributed 103,254 hours to 4-H programs, valued at $2.6 million or an estimated 51 full-time employees. From coaching archery clubs to growing vegetable gardens, the 2020 4-H Volunteers of the Year are
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Ronnie Winters
Tabitha Welborn
encouraging young people to expand their interests while modeling what it takes to be productive members of their communities.
2020 4-H Volunteers Of The Year
Alabama 4-H recognized the following volunteers: l Vercilya Reese, Jefferson County l Lee and Debbie Horton, Coffee County l Marci Batchelor, Winston County l David Ramey, Etowah County l Betsy Jordan, Lee County l Ronnie Winters, Tuscaloosa County l Tabitha Welborn, Washington County Alexander said these volunteers serve as 4-H’s best advisors for program needs in local communities and leverage local resources for the greatest impact. These individuals share their time, talent, creativity and skills to help support local youth. Success of county and state programs is largely dependent on
For more than 100 years, Alabama 4-H has been helping young people develop into resourceful citizens and responsible leaders. 4-H helps foster skills in Alabama’s young people as the youth development and education program of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Alabama 4-H uses regional Extension agents as well as community volunteers, corporate partners, alumni and parents to deliver youth development programs in all 67 counties. 4-H impacts volunteers by providing opportunities to influence youth learning, grow and develop personally, contribute to the 4-H mission, and benefit social capital and community. For more information, visit alabama4h.com.
4-H Volunteers of the Year were recognized during a program at the Alabama 4-H Center. Eight exceptional volunteers were honored, the cream of the crop of 4-H’s over 4,000 total volunteers.
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Why does your family grow peaches? Peaches are what we know, so that’s what we do. My favorite is July Prince. It makes a big, pretty, freestone peach. It lasts a long time and makes a lot of fruit.
Lynn Harrison Chilton County Farmers Federation President Lynn Harrison is the third generation of his family growing peaches near Maplesville. The iconic, whitewashed Harrison Fruit Farms stand off Highway 82 is a quintessential stop for travelers to pick up peaches and a plethora of other fruits and vegetables. Harrison, 60, retired from SABIC Innovative Plastics in 2020. He and wife Susan have been married 36 years and have three children and four grandchildren.
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How did you get started in the Federation? My dad, Jimmy, was county president for years, and I came up through Young Farmers after current Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell started the Chilton County group back up.
What do you like about the Farmers Federation? I like the camaraderie and sharing information. The Federation looks after us politically. It’s just a good organization to be part of, with lots of good people.
What’s a surprising fact about yourself? I bought a Harley-Davidson motorcycle for my 50th birthday. I always wanted one. I had torn a picture out of a magazine years earlier, and when I was looking online, the shop had that exact motorcycle. I bought it the next day.
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White Trillium
By Lois Chaplin who walk in the woods of Fjustolks Alabama have likely looked down in time to spot a pretty trio of
mottled green and silver leaves rising from the winter woodland floor. Like a jewel on the brown leafy ground, trillium is an ephemeral wildflower that glimmers in late winter and spring, then disappears underground for the summer. Called trillium for its leaves, sepals and petals in sets of three, there are about 20 trillium species native to Alabama from the Gulf Coast to the Tennessee line. These perennials often form small colonies in undisturbed, moist, organic soil in hardwood forests, along streams and on slopes. Their presence is considered a sign of a
Alabama
healthy ecosystem. Several are very rare or listed as endangered. Learn more about Alabama’s native trilliums at FloraOfAlabama.org. The site offers a map of counties where the trilliums grow, as well as detailed descriptions, photos and links to more information. The variety of color, leaf patterns and plant size is surprising. One excellent place to see a multitude of trilliums is at the Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG), one of the largest collections in the country. Started by Harold Holmes in 2006, the collection is accredited by the Plant Collections Network, a group of botanical gardens coordinating with the
American Public Gardens Association and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to preserve plant germ plasm and promote excellence in plant collections. Trilliums aren’t just for the wild. Gardeners can grow nurserypropagated trilliums in shaded woodland gardens. The plants spread slowly via rhizomes and seeds. Ants disperse seeds by carrying them to their nest, where they feed on a sweet, oily substance surrounding the seeds, then discard the seeds. Once sprouted, it can take seven years to grow into a flowering-sized plant. However, purchased potted plants will be visible in their first season. Never attempt to dig and transplant wild trilliums. They do not transplant well from the wild, and it can be illegal. Start with nursery-grown plants from reputable dealers. Most sources are mail-order, but plants are also available from local specialty nurseries, botanical gardens and Master Gardener plant sales, and native plant swaps. To grow trilliums at home, HBG’s Director of Plant Conservation and Curator of the Trillium Collection Tracy Cook said, “Generally, if a plant is propagated in the trade, it is likely a species that is also easily grown in a garden. Stick to Eastern species, not those native to the American West. Trilliums like well-drained, highly organic soil and partial shade. They don’t like wet feet. And be very careful not to damage the growing tip or break a rhizome; plants could take years to recover. If deer browsing is a problem, plant something they avoid (like daffodils) with it.” Cook also suggests covering new plants by fashioning a chicken-wire cage to protect from browsing and trampling and to mark the location when dormancy makes them invisible. Trilliums also prefer leaf cover until early spring; wait until then to remove fallen leaves, if at all. Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.
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SOYBEAN MEAL VALUE
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Animal nutritionists are your top customer. The higher the nutritional value in soybean meal, the more they’ll use it in their rations. That’s why we’re looking for the next #Cropportunity to improve soybean meal, which improves its value, which improves your price. How far can we go?
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Easy Tomato Soup with Bacon Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Servings 6
Ingredients 6 slices bacon, coarsely chopped 1 yellow onion, finely diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3 cups unsalted chicken broth 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes 1/2 teaspoon sugar Salt Pepper Shredded Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
ome days, you just need a little S comforting. And, sometimes, nothing provides that comfort quite like
food. I mean, they call it comfort food for a reason, right?! One dish that always brings me comfort is a big bowl of pinto beans and a chunk of cornbread. It’s simple, easy to prepare and is that hearty, stick-toyour-ribs kind of food I crave when I need a little consolation. My recipe uses smoked ham hocks to get that salty, smoky flavor, but you could opt for a leftover ham bone, diced smoked ham or even smoked turkey wings or necks. You might notice it doesn’t call for you to soak the beans before cooking them. I was always taught that you needed to soak dried beans beforehand, but science and testing have shown it’s not a must. While it does cut down on the cook time, there’s not much other benefit. Regardless, it won’t hurt if you decide to soak them. If we’re talking comfort, we have to talk about soup. What’s more classically comforting than a bowl of tomato soup and a grilled cheese? How about a bowl
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In a large Dutch oven over mediumhigh heat, cook bacon until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove bacon to drain on a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the bacon grease in the pot. Carefully spoon away all but about 4 tablespoons of the grease and return pot to medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook 5 to 8 minutes, or Stacey’s e until tender and translucent. Add ot Recipe N garlic and cook until fragrant — r of suga about 1 minute. Add flour and amount e h e T of tomato soup that d on th stir to combine. Cook, stirring vary base matoes l il w has bacon in it? I f to t brand o re or less constantly, for about 3 minutes. c a x e amped up boring Add mo Add chicken broth; whisk to you use. e taste tomato soup with th e v ie h c combine. Add the tomatoes and to a t. a generous helping you wan sugar, then add salt and pepper of smoky bacon flavor. to taste. Bring to a boil. Reduce to a Two things to keep in mind simmer and cook uncovered 20 to 30 with this dish: The kind of tomatoes minutes. you use will affect the flavor, so be Carefully use an immersion blender prepared to make adjustments in terms to puree the soup until smooth, keeping of ingredients. the blender head close to the bottom There’s a lot more info about this at of the pot to prevent splattering. Adjust SouthernBite.com. Pureeing this soup seasoning to taste. Serve topped with has a great effect on the final flavor, so crispy bacon pieces and a sprinkle of do not skip this step. shredded Parmesan cheese. For many folks, there’s nothing more comforting than a big ol’ gooey, warm chocolate chip cookie. My Ultimate science. Swapping out ingredients Bakery Style Chocolate Chip Cookies could lead to cookies that are too thick are just that. These cookies call for or ones that spread all over the place. a little more work than you typically expect from one of my recipes, and Stacey Little is a foodie, recipe the recipe is specific, but they’re worth developer and cookbook author every bit of extra effort. This recipe whose Southern Bite blog helps families put simple, down-to-earth makes the biggest, gooiest, meltiest, food on the table while preserving chewiest (I could go on for days here) Southern cooking for future generations. See more recipes at cookies you’ve ever had. Stick to the southernbite.com. recipe; as with most baking, it’s a alfafarmers.org
Ultimate Bakery Style Chocolate Chip Cookies Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 13 mins
Chilling Time 30 mins
Makes 9 cookies
Ingredients 1 cup cold, unsalted butter, cut into small cubes Stace 1/2 cup white sugar Recipe y’s 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar Note White L ily All-P 2 large eggs Flour is urpose 3 cups White Lily All-Purpose Flour success important to t 1 teaspoon baking soda of its lo of this recipe b he w prote e c ause 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch in can’t fin d any, c content. If yo u 1 teaspoon salt heck ou at Sout t my p hern 1 (12-ounce) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips sugges Bite.com whic ost ts an ac h 1 (10- to 12-ounce) bag mini semi-sweet replace ceptable chocolate chips ment. Flaky/kosher salt
Instructions Combine the butter and sugars in a large bowl using an electric mixer. Combine 3 to 5 minutes, or until completely mixed. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In another large bowl, measure flour by spooning into a dry measuring cup and leveling off before adding to the bowl. Add baking soda, cornstarch and salt; whisk to combine. Add dry ingredients to the butter/sugar mixture all at once. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix. Add chocolate chips and mix until just combined. Cover and refrigerate dough for 30 minutes. Heat oven to 400 F and line a light-colored cookie sheet with parchment paper. After the dough has chilled, use a food scale to measure out 6 ounces of dough for each cookie. Place 2 to 3 dough balls 6 to 8 inches apart on the prepared pan and sprinkle with a generous pinch of coarse or flaky salt. Bake 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges and just set. Allow cookies to cool on the pan 5 minutes before moving the entire piece of parchment, with the cookies on it, to a wire rack to cool. Work in batches to bake the remaining dough, being sure to keep it refrigerated until baking. Store cookies in an airtight container up to 3 days. For warm cookies, microwave about 15 seconds to reheat.
Southern Pinto Beans Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time Servings 1 hr 30 mins 6 to 8
Ingredients 1 pound dried pinto beans 8 cups water 1 smoked ham hock 3 chicken bouillon cubes 1 medium onion, chopped Salt
Instructions Inspect beans to remove any small rocks or debris. Rinse well. Place beans, water, ham hock, bouillon cubes and chopped onion in a large pot with a lid. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Add salt to taste. I usually add about 1 teaspoon, but the exact salt needed will vary based on your taste and the sodium level in the brand of bouillon. Cook over medium low for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until tender to your liking. Remove ham hock, shred meat and return to the pot, if desired.
Stacey’s Recipe Note Can’t find ham hocks? Smoked turkey necks, smoked turkey wings, 3 slices of bacon, 3 tablespoons of bacon grease, a ham bone or even ham base or ham-flavored concentrate will work. alfafarmers.org
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