March 2013 Neighbors by Alabama Farmers Federation

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VOLUME 38, NUMBER 3 _____________________________________

A Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

MARCH 2013

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 Ted Grantland, Somerville Waymon Buttram, Geraldine Don Allison, Arley John E. Walker III, Berry Dell Hill, Alpine Richard Edgar, Deatsville Dickie Odom, Boligee Garry Henry, Hope Hull Carl Sanders, Brundidge David Bitto, Elberta S. Steve Dunn, Samson Faye Dial, Lineville Jon Hegeman, Anniston

In This Issue

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

Ag Service Wall Dedicated

Agriculture’s Economic Impact

Tax Changes Affect Farmers

Hooked On Longhorns

Alabama Gardener

Country Kitchen

On The Cover

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

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: McFarland AdVantage, (334) 652-9080, McFarlandAdvantage@gmail.com. DISCLAIMERS: Advertisements in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement The pages in this magazine have been by the magazine or Alabama Farmers enriched with Layar and contain digital Federation. Editorial information from content that you can view using your sources outside the Alabama Farmers smartphone. 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.

Nancy Dunn grew up around beef and dairy cattle, but became hooked on longhorns. Photo by Debra Davis

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Federation Dedicates Wall Honoring Service To Agriculture Recipients

Former Lt. Gov. George McMillan Jr., left, and Dr. John Jensen, former dean of the Auburn University College of Agriculture, were among the inductees who attended the Jan. 29 ceremony dedicating the Service to Agriculture wall. The wall is in the Alabama Farmers Federation home office in Montgomery.

By Debra Davis

permanent display honoring a group of Alabama leaders for their service to agriculture was dedicated Jan. 29 at the Alabama Farmers Federation headquarters in Montgomery. A wall displaying etched portraits of the Federation’s Service to Agriculture Award winners was dedicated during a reception attended by several honorees and family members. Recipients of the award are honored during the organization’s annual meeting each year; however, there was no lasting exhibit until now. “The Service to Agriculture Award is the highest honor given by the Federation,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “The dedication of this wall recognizes each of the recipients in a permanent manner. The men and women honored here made lasting, significant contributions to Alabama agriculture, and it’s appropriate we remind ourselves now, and for years to come, of their efforts.” Honorees include Gov. George

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Wallace, who received the inaugural award in 1965 and was awarded again in 1986. Other state leaders, U.S. senators and representatives, educational and civic leaders, as

well as former leaders of the Federation, are members of the prestigious group. Former Lt. Gov. George McMillan Jr., who received the Service to Agriculture Award in 1980, attended the ceremony. He said he was flattered when he received the award more than two decades ago and was humbled again to be remembered in a permanent way. “It’s very touching,” McMillan said. “To be honored by being included with this distinguished group of people the Alabama Farmers Federation has chosen to recognize is something that is very special to me.” Parnell said the wall is a symbol of appreciation to all those honored with the award. “It’s just mind-boggling to stand there and look at those people and just think about the things that they’ve done for Alabama and for agriculture,” he said during the ceremony. “I just want to say thank you. That’s what this is all about.” n

Service To Ag Honorees

George Wallace, 1965 & 1986; L.M. Ware, 1966; Albert Brewer, 1967; E.V. Smith, 1968; Richard Beard, 1969; M.C. Stallworth, 1969; Fred Robertson, 1970; Walter Randolph, 1970; T.L. Faulkner, 1971; W.T. Maynor, 1971; A.W. Jones, 1972; R.G. Arnold, 1972; James B. Allen, 1973; J. Lewis Harper, 1973; Jack Young, 1973; Booker T. Whatley, 1974; G.B. Phillips, 1975; W.O. Patterson, 1975; Tine Davis, 1975; Jack Edwards, 1976; Walter Givhan, 1976; Charles McCay, 1976; Thomas E. Coker, 1977; Joe McCorquodale, 1978; Richard S. Manley, 1979; George McMillan, Jr., 1980; Howell Heflin, 1981; H. Hanly Funderburk, 1982; Bill Nichols, 1983; Charles Mitchell, 1983; William L. Dickinson, 1984; Hinton Mitchem, 1985; Albert McDonald, 1987; Guy Hunt, 1988; John A. Garrett, 1988; James Martin, 1989; Claude Harris, 1990; Dale Huffman, 1991; James E. Marion, 1992; James S. Clark, 1993; Terry Everett, 1994 & 2002; Paul Parks, 1995; Fob James, 1996; Dick Fifield, 1996; J.D. Hays, 1996; Bud Cramer, 1997; Jeff Sessions, 1998; Goodwin L. Myrick, 1998; Sonny Callahan, 1999; Charles Bishop, 2000; Doug Rigney, 2000; Seth Hammett, 2001; Richard Shelby, 2003; John Dorrill, 2003; John Jensen, 2004; Jim Cravey, 2004; Walter Hill, 2005; Ed Richardson, 2006; Ron Sparks, 2007; Jan Cook, 2008; Richard Guthrie, 2009; Mike Kilgore, 2009; J. Paul Till, 2009; John Wheat, 2010; Mike Rogers, 2011; and Jerry Newby, 2012. 4

MARCH 2013

Agriculture, Forestry Dominate Alabama Economy

griculture and forestry contribute $70.4 billion annually to Alabama’s economy and account for 22 percent of the state’s workforce, according to a study released Feb. 12. “The findings from this study are a powerful tool for our industry,” said Leigha Cauthen, executive director of the Alabama Agribusiness Council. “This research highlights the importance of agriculture to our state’s economy by providing reliable and credible facts we can use as advocates for the state’s farmers, agribusi- Gov. Robert Bentley announced results of the economic impact study at a press conference Feb. 12 in Montgomery. nesses and rural landHe was joined by leaders of the agricultural community from throughout the state including, from left, Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Alabama Agribusiness Council Executive Director Leigha Cauthen owners.” Gov. Robert Bentley, and Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries John McMillan. flanked by agricultural leaders from throughout the state, include increasing on-farm irrigaimpact and 86,237 jobs. announced the results of the study tion; developing infrastructure for Alabama’s other top crops, in at a Feb. 12 press conference in the processing and distribution of order of economic impact, are: Montgomery. farm and forestry products; and greenhouse, nursery and floriculThe report, “Economic Impacts supporting agricultural education ture; beef cattle; cotton; and soyof Alabama’s Agricultural, Forestry, and research.” bean, corn and wheat production. and Related Industries,” was a According to the study, every $1 The study also examined comcollaborative effort of the Agribusimillion in direct sales of Alabama modities unique to Alabama’s econness Council, Alabama Cooperative agricultural and timber products omy, including peanuts and catfish. Extension System, Auburn Univergenerates 10 jobs. Peanuts contribute $211.4 million sity, Alabama Farmers Federation Extension System Director Dr. annually to Alabama’s economy and other businesses and organizaGary Lemme said the report shows and 2,046 jobs. Catfish accounts for tions. It revealed that, in addition how agricultural research, educa$158.2 million and 5,829 jobs. to remaining Alabama’s largest tion and outreach pay dividends for “We produce and process a wide economic engine, agriculture and the state. diversity of products that not only forestry are the state’s second larg“Aside from providing a detailed are consumed here in Alabama but est employer. picture of this sector of Alabama’s are exported to every corner of the Federation President Jimmy economy, the study’s findings also world,” Lemme said. “The main Parnell said the next step will be to underscore the strong case for congoal of the study is to demonstrate use the research to define goals for tinued investment in agriculture the enormous and often understatthe future. and forestry,” Lemme said. ed presence of this sector, its endur“This information can help Timber production and processing influence and, most important us develop a plan to increase the ing lead all farm and forestry secof all, its immense potential to profitability of farming and cretors in economic impact, generating all Alabamians and public policy ate jobs,” Parnell said. “We need $21.4 billion annually and employofficials.” to set specific goals for how much ing 122,020 Alabamians. Poultry The full report is available at we want to grow our industry and and eggs top traditional farm comhttps://store.aces.edu/ItemDetail. then support policies and research modities in production and process- aspx?ProductID=17695. n to reach those goals. This could ing with $15.1 billion in economic MARCH 2013

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Capitol City Shines During Commodity Organizational Conference By Melissa Martin

etting goals, discussing agricultural issues and electing commodity leaders were the focus of more than 800 farmers gathered in Montgomery Feb. 12-14 for the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Commodity Organizational Conference. The annual event, held at the Embassy Suites Hotel, gave members a chance to interact with experts in 16 commodity fields. During the opening-day luncheon, Gov. Robert Bentley addressed nearly 300 farmers from across the state on agriculture’s economic impact. He told attendees he genuinely appreciates their hard work. “I appreciate your dedication and what each of you do every day,” Bentley told the packed room. “You live by faith, work hard and feed the people of this great country. You also provide significant job opportunities for residents of this state.” Bentley received rousing applause when he vowed to not raise taxes. He also told farmers he has plans to improve facets of rural infrastructure. “There’s an agricultural investigator system in the works,” Bentley said. “We want qualified men and women to be trained specifically to look at crimes that affect farmers. In addition to law enforcement restructuring, we’re also focused on improving the roads from farmto-market. ATRIP, the largest road and bridge improvement program in Alabama’s history, will repair nearly 500 roadways in 61 of Alabama’s 67 counties.” Federation Governmental and Agricultural Programs Director Jimmy Carlisle said the conference is essential to continuing the grassroots efforts on which the organization was founded. “It’s important we have broadbased representation of active commodity leaders so we can effec-

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Gov. Robert Bentley greeted farmers at the Commodity Organizational Conference Feb. 12 prior to speaking at lunch. From left are Wally Sanders of Morgan County, Bentley and Hobson Hite of Cullman County.

tively represent Alabama farmers,” said Carlisle. “Leaders elected at this event represent the concerns and issues relative to other farmers across the state. They are the core of our grassroots organization and through their efforts, we are able to help develop policy that protects the interests of all farmers.” Each day at lunch, retiring members of state committees were honored with plaques for outstanding service. Those honored during the Feb. 12 luncheon were Tommy Maples of Limestone County and Dean Wysner of Randolph County, State Beef Committee; Sawyer Chiles of Wilcox County, State Catfish Committee; and Wallace Norwood of Greene County, State Pork Committee. Honored Feb. 13 were Emory Mosley of Washington County, State Forestry Committee; and W.D. Flowers of Montgomery County, Winford Parmer of Autauga County and Bill Collier of Lee County, State Hay & Forage Committee. Feb. 14 honorees were Kenneth Hinkle of Calhoun County and Jason Powell of Chilton County, State Greenhouse, 6

Nursery & Sod Committee; Donald Ray Wilks of Geneva County, State Poultry Committee; Ted Grantland of Morgan County and Jeff Webster of Madison County, State Soybean Committee; and Mack Hughes of Jackson County and John Walker of Tuscaloosa County, State Wheat & Feed Grains Committee. Following lunch, state committee members elected new leaders. All members serve threeyear terms unless otherwise noted. Newly elected officers and members for 2013 are:

Bee & Honey — Chairman Bill Mullins of Madison County; First Vice Chairman Joe Lambrecht* of Elmore County; Second Vice Chairman Lionel Evans of Limestone County; Ray Latham of Jackson County; Jimmy Carmack of Jefferson County and Terry Martin of Tallapoosa County Beef — Chairman Clay Kennamer of Jackson County; First Vice Chairman Mike Henry of Montgomery County; Second Vice Chairman Anthony Faggard of Mobile County; Phil Slay of Chambers County; Jerald Wallace of Colbert County; Jim Yance of Henry County and Rick Smith of St. Clair County Catfish — Chairman Will Pearce of Dallas County; First Vice Chairman Butch Wilson of Dallas County; Second Vice MARCH 2013

Chairman Paul Wheeler* of Perry County; Mark Satterfield of Clay County; Thed Spree of Greene County and Brad Brady of Perry County Cotton — Chairman Jimmy Miller* of Blount County; First Vice Chairman Neal Isbell of Colbert County; Second Vice Chairman Richard Edgar of Elmore County; George Hodge of Madison County; Andy Thornburg of Mobile County and James Jordan of Pike County Dairy — Chairman Will Gilmer* of Lamar County; Vice Chairman Richie Traylor* of Randolph County; Trey Martin of Coffee County; Diane Payton of DeKalb County; Wayne Bearden of Macon County; Jody Rankin of Marengo County and Mickey Childers of Morgan County Equine — Chairman Jamie McConnell of Chilton County; First Vice Chairman Bonnie Shanholtzer of Autauga County; Second Vice Chairman Bryan Hoagland* of Shelby County; Amy Hegeman of Calhoun County; Wendell Harmon of Chambers County; Toni Flowers of Montgomery County and Jo Ann B. Laney of Russell County. Hoagland was elected to a two-year term. Forestry — Chairman John Dorrill* of Pike County; Vice Chairman James Malone of Mobile County; Richard Cox of Baldwin County; Richard Jones of Covington County; Charles Whatley of Lee County and Ken Real of Marion County

Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod — Chairman Phillip Hunter* of Shelby County; First Vice Chairman Jon Hegeman* of Calhoun County; Second Vice Chairman Tommy Odom of Mobile County; John Newman of Chambers County and John Bailey of Montgomery County Hay & Forage — Chairman Wade Hill of Lawrence County; First Vice Chairman Joe Potter of Colbert County; Second Vice Chairman Stanley Newton of Chambers County; Phyllis Jones of Cherokee County; Johnny Lee of Henry County; Laslie Hall of Montgomery County; Steve Stroud of Pike County and Neal Kelley of Tallapoosa County Horticulture — Chairman Art Sessions* of Mobile County; First Vice Chairman Allie Corcoran* of Barbour County; Second Vice Chairman Jackie Loyd* of Jackson County; Michael Jenkins of Jefferson County and Rob McHugh of St. Clair County Meat Goat & Sheep — Chairman Sam Abney* of Autauga County; First Vice Chairman Jimmy Parker* of Cullman County; Second Vice Chairman Stacey Nestor* of Montgomery County; Eugene Blair of Chambers County and Mike Dole of St. Clair County Pork — Chairman Mark Pennington of Calhoun County; First Vice Chairman Tim Donaldson of Cullman County; Second Vice Chairman Jon Petree of Franklin

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County; Joe Hall of Henry County; Albert Miller of Mobile County; Tim Gates of Pickens County and Roland St. John of St. Clair County Poultry — Chairman Joe Roberts of Fayette County; First Vice Chairman Dennis Maze of Blount County; Second Vice Chairman Tom Duncan* of Butler County; Mike Carnes of Marshall County; Chase Bradley of Monroe County and Jeremy Brown of Montgomery County Soybean — Chairman Pat Buck* of Sumter County; First Vice Chairman Don Glenn of Lawrence County; Second Vice Chairman Colt Clemmons* of Lauderdale County; Mike Neal of Jackson County and Charles Butler of Madison County Wheat & Feed Grains — Chairman Stanley Walters of Marengo County; First Vice Chairman Andy Wendland of Autauga County; Second Vice Chairman Dan Rhyne* of Lowndes County; Ben Haynes of Cullman County; Brian Glenn of Lawrence County; Shep Morris of Macon County and Mike Dee of Pickens County. Dee was elected to a two-year term. Wildlife — Chairman Will Ainsworth of Marshall County; First Vice Chairman Dell Hill* of Talladega County; Second Vice Chairman Lamar Dewberry* of Clay County; Johnny Lanier of Choctaw County and Chip Stacey of Conecuh County n * Chairmen/vice chairmen elected to serve terms Feb. 12-14.

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Alfa Offers Young Driver Discount By Miranda Mattheis

“Recently, we had a customer’s daughter turn 16 who was unable to enroll in the driver’s education n online test is helping drive down insurance costs program offered by her high school until next August,” for young Alabama motorists with Alfa Insurance. Woodard said. “She took the Youth Defensive Driver test offered on our website, and we were able to apply The Youth Defensive Driver Discount allows the discount to her parent’s auto policy.” unmarried drivers aged 16 to 20 to take a test on Alfa’s Woodard said he is excited and grateful to be able to website that could qualify them for a money-saving offer this new discount to customers. discount. “There are many families in our area who choose “The Youth Defensive Driver to home-school or send their children to private Discount was developed to offer a schools where driver’s education is not offered,” discount to customers whose chilWoodard explained. dren have not had the opportunity “With our new disto take a driver training course in The test can be accessed count, customers are school,” said Vice President of Auto by visiting the youthful pleased they can take Underwriting Gail Pelt. operator discounts section advantage of savings The test includes questions on of Alfa’s website at they deserve. This is driving rules, safety, signals and more. https://www.alfains.com/ just another way we “It is convenient for a youthful html/Products_Auto_ can fully service our driver to sign on to the Alfa website and take Discounts.html. customers.” the test,” Pelt said. “Once they have successDrivers who qualfully passed the test online, all that is left to do ify for the Youth Defensive Driver Discount must be is to let their agent know so the discount can be added to the policy. We are excited to offer a new discount for free from at-fault accidents and violations for the prior 36 months. This discount cannot be issued in addition youthful drivers who are not already receiving a driver to the Driver Training Discount, which is offered to training discount.” drivers who have successfully completed an approved Section, Ala., Agent David Woodard said he has driver’s education course. n already saved customers money on their auto insurance with the new discount.

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Alabama Dairy Farmer Named A Face Of Farming & Ranching Program

dairy farmer from Alabama is now a national spokesperson for the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance (USFRA). Will Gilmer of Lamar County was one of four farmers selected in USFRA’s Faces of Farming and Ranching program, a nationwide search launched in June to identify farmers and ranchers who are eager to share their stories. Gilmer and three other program winners were selected from more than 100 farmer and rancher applicants from across the country. As one of the Faces of Farming & Ranching, Gilmer will share his stories and experiences on a national stage to help answer consumers’ questions about how food is grown and raised to feed our nation. “By adapting advanced management practices, we are able to raise healthy, comfortable cows that produce quality milk and beef,” said

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Lamar County dairy farmer Will Gilmer was selected as one of four winners in USFRA’s “Faces of Farming and Ranching” contest. Gilmer will share stories of farming to help answer consumers’ questions about how food is grown and raised.

Gilmer. “I want to help consumers see that farmers and ranchers have a genuine passion for what they do and take pride in the quality of the food they produce.” Gilmer and his father own and operate a dairy farm, which Will’s grandfather established in the early 1950s. They currently milk 200 Holstein cows and raise their own replacement heifers while managing 600 acres of land used for pasture and forage production. Those forages include hay, summer silage crops, small grains and rye grass for silage and strip grazing. Gilmer serves as chairman of the State Dairy Committee, a division 10

of the Alabama Farmers Federation. His YouTube videos like “Have a Dairy, Merry Christmas” and “MooTube Minutes” have thousands of views. Gilmer Dairy Farm can be found online at YouTube.com/GilmerDairy; on Twitter @gilmerdairy; and at Facebook.com/GDFmilk. Gilmer also blogs at GilmerDairy. blogspot.com. As a Faces of Farming & Ranching winner, Gilmer will receive a $10,000 stipend to help offset costs of spending time away from the farm. He will also have the opportunity to direct a $5,000 donation to an agriculture-related charity. “So much of today’s conversation on food in media and popular culture is missing the perspective of the people who actually grow and raise our food,” said Bob Stallman, chairman of USFRA and president of the American Farm Bureau Federation. “This lack of representation has led to a lot of misconceptions and questions about how food gets from the farm or ranch to our tables. (Farmers like Will) have the first-hand experience to address complicated issues surrounding food production by giving honest answers about what happens on today’s farms and ranches.” From Nov. 15 - Dec. 15, 2012, thousands visited FoodDialogues. com and voted for their favorite candidate. In addition to the public vote, a panel of judges from throughout the food and agriculture community interviewed and evaluated the finalists to help determine the winners. The other winners include Bo Stone, a row-crop farmer from Rowland, N.C.; Chris Chinn, a hog and cattle farmer from Clarence, Mo.; and Katie Pratt, a row-crop farmer from Dixon, Ill. For more information, visit FoodDialogues.com. USFRA consists of more than 80 farmer- and rancher-led organizations and agricultural partners representing virtually all aspects of agriculture, working to engage in dialogues with consumers who have questions about how today’s food is grown and raised. n MARCH 2013

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Five Federal Tax Changes Affecting Alabama Farmers By Nate Birt, Farm Journal Social Media and News Editor

armers can lower their taxable income and plan for the future of their operations by taking advantage of several provisions included in the recently approved American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, says The Farm CPA Paul Neiffer. Read on to learn about changes to capital gains, Section 179, bonus depreciation, the federal estate tax and the alternative minimum tax (AMT). Capital gains rates multiply Whereas the federal government previously recognized two capital gains rates—0 percent for couples whose taxable income was less than about 70,000 and a flat 15 percent for those making anything above that—it now effectively recognizes at least 10, Neiffer says. Capital gains rates most often affect farmers who purchase farmland and later sell it at a higher price. The difference between the purchase price and the sale price is taxed at the relevant capital gains rate. Under the new law, factors affecting the capital gains rate include income bracket, itemized deductions, gross income and personal exemptions. For example, a farmer who itemizes deductions and has a gross income above a certain level will experience phaseouts of itemized deductions and personal exemptions. A Medicare surtax also comes into play for people in some higherincome brackets. In general, most farmers making less than $250,000 per year will pay a capital gains rate of 15 percent starting with the 2013 tax year, Neiffer says. The 0 percent rate will still apply for lower -income taxw w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

payers. Those making above that amount generally will pay a tax rate between 19 percent and 25 percent based on taxable income. In the case of couples with a large family, the effective rate maybe even higher. High-level Section 179 deduction extended Farmers who have benefited from the Section 179 deduction for farm equipment and some land improvements will continue to enjoy a high deduction amount of $500,000 for the 2012 and 2013 tax years, Neiffer says. For the years before the Sept. 11 attacks, the deduction never

amounted to more than $25,000. For the last several years, the deduction has fluctuated between $125,000 and $500,000 in an effort to encourage machinery buying and stimulate the economy. The deduction will drop back to $25,000 in 2014. Farmers would normally depreciate a piece of machinery over a period of seven years. But the extension allows an operator to deduct up to $500,000 of equipment placed into service during the fiscal year for which he or she is filing taxes, Neiffer says. For example, a farmer with a net income of $300,000 who has already completed pre-payings and deferred all sales might purchase machinery at the end of the year to drop their income, reducing the taxes they’ll pay. 12

The deduction isn’t available to farmers who purchase more than $2.5 million worth of equipment in a year, Neiffer says, but that doesn’t apply to many farmers. Bonus depreciation extended at 50 percent Farmers who put new assets such as equipment and machine sheds into use between Jan. 1, 2012, and Dec. 31, 2013 can take advantage of a 50 percent deduction known as bonus depreciation. There is no investment limit or taxable income limit for that deduction, Neiffer says. A farmer who builds a shop for $250,000, for example, can immediately deduct $125,000. The only stipulation is that the assets in question must be new, not used, he says. As with the Section 179 deduction, bonus depreciation initially went into effect to stimulate the economy after Sept. 11. Before 2009, bonus depreciation fluctuated between 0 percent and 50 percent It rose to 100 percent for part of 2010 and all of 2011. Federal estate tax rate becomes permanent The federal estate tax is applied upon a farmer’s death. Whether a farmer’s survivors must pay the tax is determined by taking the total fair market value of his or her assets and subtracting any liabilities. If the resulting net worth is less than the lifetime exclusion, no taxes are owed. If the resulting net worth is greater than the exclusion, taxes are due. For 2012, the lifetime exclusion is $5.12 million, and that figure will rise to $5.25 million for 2013, Neiffer says. Couples can be worth up to $10.5 million without having to pay the estate tax. That amount is MARCH 2013

indexed for inflation. Under the new law, the estate tax rate rises from 35 percent in 2012 to a permanent 40 percent in 2013. Portability for spouses also has been made permanent. That means a farmer who doesn’t make any taxable gifts during his lifetime and dies with a net worth of less than $5.25 million will not owe any estate tax, Neiffer says. By contrast, a farmer with a net worth of $10 million will owe taxes at a rate of 40 percent on assets above the $5.25 million exclusion. While the $5 million annual exclusion will only remain in effect until Congress decides to change it, Neiffer says, the permanence provides added security to farm families. It follows changes made in 2010, when Congress raised the lifetime gift exemption amount–which had for years stayed at $1 million–to equal the estate tax exclusion. That means farmers should look at making gifts during their lifetime, Neiffer says. For example, a farm couple worth $10 million might make gifts to stay below that estate

MARCH 2013

value. One possible drawback is that capital gains taxes may be owed when the gifted property is sold. These capital gains taxes are assessed at a lower rate than estate taxes. Any property transferred after that couple’s death would not result in capital gains taxes for the beneficiaries (additional gains above the estate value would be subject to capital gains taxes). Alternative minimum tax changes help middle-income farmers Middle-income farmers stand to benefit from changes to the alternative minimum tax (AMT), Neiffer says. Congress decided to index that tax to inflation permanently, meaning affected farmers will avoid seeing a possible annual tax increase of between $2,000 and $12,000. The tax introduced in 1986 wasn’t originally indexed to inflation, meaning Congress had to pass a patch every one to two years to increase the exemption amount, Neiffer says. The tax affects about 5 million people. Without a patch, the tax would have affected about 30 million people mak-

ing between $50,000 and $200,000. That doesn’t mean all middleincome farmers are exempt from AMT, Neiffer says. It simply means the rate will remain lower than it might have been. Start planning for 2014 The fiscal cliff legislation clarifies the tax landscape for 2013, Neiffer says. But because it’s unclear what changes will be made in 2014, farmers should look ahead. For example, those who need new equipment might be inclined to purchase it this year to take advantage of bonus depreciation and Section 179. And farmers with a net worth greater than $5 million can’t just sit back. “They really need to be working with their tax adviser to update that estate plan each year to make sure they stay under than $10 million level,” Neiffer says. n EDITOR’S NOTE: The Alabama Farmers Federation is not in the business of giving tax advice. Before taking action, seek advice from a qualified tax advisor. *Reprinted with permission from Farm Journal Media. Originally published on Jan. 9, 2013.

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By Debra Davis

Nancy Dunn describes longhorns as gentle cattle that are “practically maintenance-free.”

been raising registered longhorns since 1988. “My granddaddy had a dairy, and he had beef cattle, so I’ve been around cattle all my life. But longhorns aren’t like most other breeds, and there’s more to them than just the horns.” Admittedly, the long horns are among the most valued attributes of the breed, but for Dunn, her cows must have good conformation, excellent milking ability and a gentle

all grass swayed in the wind as imposing longhorns topped the horizon headed for a nearby watering hole. Their horns nodded back and forth as the herd walked almost single file. The majestic scene was reminiscent of the Old West, but remarkably was in the Fleahop community of rural Elmore County. Standing nearby was their owner. Not a tall, slim cowboy, but a feisty, petite woman who cares for them each day. “I’m originally from Monroe County and grew up on a farm,” said Nancy Dunn, who’s

w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

disposition. “I like a cow with some depth of body,” she said. “Most of mine are a little bigger than the typical old Western trail drive longhorns people might expect. They aren’t bony. They have a straight top line, and my females have to look feminine.” Dunn describes longhorns as “almost maintenancefree,” adding they are heat and insect tolerant, disease resistant, early maturing and have a long breeding life. She said longhorn beef is delicious, lean and tender, 16

MARCH 2013

Dunn’s cow, Horse Shoe J Cadence, won a national title in 2011 for her 79-inch horn spread.

is the peace she finds in the pasture among her herd. “It’s very therapeutic just watching them,” she said. “As I told my husband one day, if I have to explain it to you, there’s no way you’re going to understand it.” n ____________________________

For more information, visit the National Longhorn Breeders Association of America at TLBAA.org or the Southeastern Texas Longhorn Association at SoutheasternLonghorns.com.

and it’s the only beef she serves her family. Dunn and her husband, Hugh, both retired from USDA Rural Development a few years ago. They enjoy team roping with their two sons and competing in stock horse shows. Hugh, however, doesn’t share his wife’s passion for longhorns. “He has three cows,” Dunn said, pointing to the herd in front of their home. “None of them have horns.” Currently, Dunn has 65 brood cows, 15 replacement heifers and is part of a syndicated bull ownership program. She plans to maintain that number, but hopes to improve genetics through her replacement heifers. “I got started with some longhorn heifers that we had roped for a while,” she recalled. “It didn’t take me long to get interested in the history and genetics of the registered side. I sold those and went to all registered longhorns around 1990.” Dunn said she’s bought cattle from breeders around the country, notably Jimmy Jones from Greenville, Ala., whom she calls her mentor and close friend, and Terry King of Westville, Fla. It was Jones who, in 2004, sold her the prize cow, Horseshoe J Cadence, which won the “Tip-ToTip” class at the 2011 Horned Showcase contest sponsored by the Texas Longhorn Breeders Association. The cow’s horns spanned a whopping 79 inches. Despite the accolades, Dunn said the best reward her longhorns offer MARCH 2013

w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Alabama Speaker of the House Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn, left, and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell talk to Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey during the Taste of Alabama reception Feb. 6 in Montgomery.

Reception Offers Elected Officials A ‘Taste Of Alabama’ By Mary Johnson

armers from across Alabama served up local dishes and some food for thought during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s annual “Taste of Alabama” legislative reception Feb. 6. State legislators, constitutional officers and judges filled their plates and listened to farmers’ concerns during the event at the organization’s home office in Montgomery. The wide array of fare represented commodities produced in Alabama. “The reception is a highlight of the year,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “It’s a great opportunity for our farmers to share the wonderful food they produce, and it allows them to speak one-on-one with state leaders who are shaping agricultural laws and policies.” Gov. Robert Bentley, First Lady Dianne Bentley, Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey, 25 state senators, 78 state representatives and other elected officials spent time with more than 150 w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Federation leaders and state board members during the event. The event provided government officials with an even greater appreciation for the work of farmers and the economic impact of agriculture. “I look forward to this every year,” said Alabama Speaker of the House Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn. “Agriculture is such an important part of our state and our economy. It really is showcased by having the Taste of Alabama. But the best part is seeing the people from all counties of the state.” Attendees sampled pecans from Whaley’s Pecan Company in Troy, organic milk from Jan and Rinske de Jong’s Working Cows Dairy in Slocomb, pork barbecue from Bishop’s Barbecue in Cherokee County and grits from Joe and Patty Lambrecht’s Oakview Farms Granary in Wetumpka. The Alabama Peanut Producers provided peanuts, and the Alabama Bee and Honey Producers served honey. Mike Henry of Montgomery County served 18

beef tenderloin, and Sam Abney of Autauga County served goat and lamb products. Additional offerings included catfish, fried chicken, squash, fried green tomatoes, cornbread, turnip greens, sweet potato fries, ice cream and fruit cobblers. Other state officials in attendance included Secretary of State Beth Chapman, State Treasurer Young Boozer, Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries John McMillan, Public Service Commissioner Jeremy Oden and State School Board members Stephanie Bell and Tracy Roberts. Judges attending the reception included Supreme Court Justices Michael Bolin, Tom Parker, Kelly Wise and Tommy Bryan; Civil Appeals Court Judge Scott Donaldson; and Criminal Appeals Court Judges Mary Becker Windom, Beth Kellum, Liles Burke and Michael Joiner. n Photos of the event are on the Federation’s Facebook page. MARCH 2013

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Agriculture Leaders Named To Hall Of Honor By Jeff Helms

gricultural leaders in farming, agribusiness and education were honored Jan. 31 in Auburn as five inductees were added to the Alabama Agriculture Hall of Honor. Coffee County farmer Philip Martin, former Auburn University Poultry Sciences Department Head Robert Brewer and retired Alabama Farmers Cooperative CEO Tommy Paulk joined 85 men and women honored since 1985. Former Delta Pride Catfish CEO and President Samuel Hinote and former Alabama Power Co. Executive Vice President Everett Easter were honored posthumously with the Pioneer Award. Sponsored by the Auburn University Agricultural Alumni Association, the Hall of Honor recognizes Alabama residents who have contributed to the state’s farming industry. Martin, who served as president of the Coffee County Farmers Federation from 1967 to 1998, took over day-to-day operation of his family’s dairy farm in 1956. Under his leadership, the dairy operation grew exponentially, earning Martin seven Alabama Master Dairyman Awards. Martin later diversified with peanuts and corn. He also helped inspire young people by coaching judging teams, hosting interns and sponsoring exchange students. Martin served on the boards of directors of both the Alabama Farmers Federation and the Federal Land Bank. A native of Phil Campbell, Brewer joined Auburn’s faculty in 1968 as an assistant professor of poultry science. He was named department head in 1987, a position he held until his retirement in 2001. During Brewer’s tenure, student enrollment in poultry sciences at Auburn quadrupled. He also is credited with envisioning and securing funding for the MARCH 2013

Auburn University College of Agriculture Dean Bill Batchelor, left, and AU Ag Alumni Association 2012 President Bill Gilley, right, congratulate inductees into the Hall of Honor. From left are Batchelor, Tommy Paulk, Philip Martin, Dr. Robert Brewer and Gilley.

85,000-square-foot Poultry Science Building. Paulk grew up at his family’s business, Bonnie Plants, in Union Springs. In 1975, Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC) bought Bonnie Plants, and Paulk was named sales manager in 1977. He was later promoted to general manager before being named CEO in 1994. Paulk developed a new marketing strategy for Bonnie Plants that led to the development of 75 growing and distribution sites. He also expanded AFC’s investment in the catfish industry. Hinote began his career with Nebraska Consolidated Mills, which later became ConAgra Inc., and eventually became general manager of fish product operations for the company. In 1980, Hinote moved to Indianola, Miss., as manager and founding president and CEO of Delta Pride Catfish. Hinote returned to Alabama in 1990 where he purchased Blue Waters Catfish Processing in Demopolis. During his career, Hinote received the Catfish Farmers 21

Marketing Association Award and served two terms as president of the American Catfish Marketing Association. A Limestone County native, Easter joined Auburn’s agricultural engineering faculty as an associate professor charged with supervising research about the use of electricity on farms and in rural communities. After completing his research, Easter was hired by Alabama Power Co. as chief agricultural engineer to supervise expansion of electricity into rural areas of the state. By the time he became executive vice president in 1958, Alabama Power had run 25,000 miles of rural lines, bringing electricity to 200,000 customers. Since 1996, the Alabama Agriculture Hall of Honor has presented the Pioneer Award to the families of 36 individuals whose contributions had a positive impact on farming in the state. For more information about the AU Ag Alumni Association and the Hall of Honor, visit http://www. ag.auburn.edu/alumni/. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Test Don’t Tread

Water Water expert Marlon Cook said in addition to testing well water for quality, it’s important to monitor water quantity. He is shown here measuring water levels in rural Baldwin County.

By Melissa Martin

armers routinely check fences, replace worn parts and tune-up equipment, but these otherwisecautious rural residents may be overlooking one maintenance practice —testing groundwater. In honor of National Groundwater Awareness Week, March 10-16, the National Ground Water Association (NGWA) encourages individuals who rely on wells to routinely test their water and verify equipment isn’t damaged. Water analyses could detect bacteria strains such as E. coli, excess mineral deposits that adversely affect the taste of water and other underlying issues. “As with any mechanical system, wells require regular maintenance. Screens clog, pumps wear out and electrical components fail,” said Marlon Cook, director of the Geological Survey of Alabama’s Groundwater Assessment Program. “It’s also beneficial to monitor water levels. Regular measurements ensure an adequate amount of water is available... a useful fact during seasons of drought.” National Groundwater Awareness Week was established 15 years ago to remind private well owners to test water before peak use season. In Alabama, 201,111 households (521,000 residents) are served by privately owned, individual wells. Cook said most private well owners have never tested their water because of associated costs. A fullsuite water test that covers all nutrients, bacteria and inorganic materials could cost around $1,000, but cheaper options are available. “Some well owners may only need to test for iron, w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

lead, manganese or chloride. Others may only need to test for bacteria,” explained Cook. “While we do encourage annual testing, frequency can vary based on which part of the state you live in. Well owners should check with state or local health departments for testing recommendations.” U.S. residents use 79.6 billion gallons per day of fresh groundwater. Groundwater — which serves households, business and agriculture — is funneled through nearly 16 million wells nationwide. Agricultural irrigation accounts for the largest use of groundwater nationwide: 53.5 billion gallons per day. Nearly 300 farms in Alabama use a well system for irrigation, totaling 74 million gallons of groundwater per day and covering more than 22,000 acres of land. In light of Alabama’s recent irrigation tax incentive program, those numbers may be on the rise. “Farmers may not use the well water for personal consumption, but it’s still important they test their water to make sure it isn’t harmful to their crops or livestock,” Cook said. “In the case of agricultural or aquacultural water supplies, particular contaminants can damage crops or threaten the health of animals and fish. It is prudent to have a chemical and bacterial analyses performed on all water sources.” Visit epa.gov/safewater/labs or call 800-426-4791 to locate a state-certified testing laboratory. For additional well maintenance tips, visit WellOwner.org. n 22

MARCH 2013

National Severe Weather Preparedness Week Is March 3-9 By Mary Johnson

have no hope. Those things only reach a limited number of people outdoors.” After getting the warning, people should go to the safe place in their home where the readiness kit is stored. Spann says anyone living in a mobile home should have a safe place they can get to in less than 15 minutes. In a site-built home, he says people should be in a small, sturdy room near the center of the home on the first floor away from windows. Along with batteries, flashlights and other emergency staples, Spann says it’s crucial to include helmets, shoes and an air-horn in a readiness kit. In Alabama, the spring severe weather season is March through May and the fall severe weather season is roughly November through December. However, it’s important to always be prepared. “All it takes is one tornado coming down your street, and that’s your April 27th,” Spann said. For more information on National Severe Weather Preparedness Week, visit noaa.gov/wrn. For more information on what to include in an emergency readiness kit, visit ReadyAlabama.gov. n

ational Severe Weather Preparedness Week, March 3-9, encourages people to develop and practice a severe weather emergency plan. It’s a lesson many in Alabama have taken to heart since the April 27, 2011, tornado outbreak. ABC 33-40 chief meteorologist James Spann said April 27 made him realize how much more needs to be done to save lives. “Since then, (the professional weather enterprise) has been working really hard, and we hope the public will take weeks like this to think about what’s wrong on their end,” Spann said. He has three keys to severe weather preparedness: get the warning, know where you’re going and have a readiness kit. Spann encourages people to get their warnings from weather radios, smartphones or media, instead of relying on outdoor sirens. “I don’t know what it is about Alabamians, but we’re born with this notion that you’re supposed to hear some air raid-type siren before a tornado,” he said. “Families have to stop that. Families relying on sirens

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Ag In The Classroom Applications Due April 15 By Mary Johnson

eachers seeking new ways to introduce their students to reading, science, math and history can find all that and more at the annual Alabama Ag in the Classroom (AITC) Summer Institute June 4-6 in Birmingham. Educators have until April 15 to apply for the institute. During the three-day conference, AITC participants learn innovative techniques for integrating agricultural activities into the classroom. Participants tour local farms, speak one-on-one with farmers and gain first-hand insight into producing food and fiber. “This program is an inspiration for educators who attend,” said AITC Chairman Kim Ramsey. “Participants learn about the importance of agriculture in Alabama, and they pass those lessons on to their students. The visits to farms and discovering agriculture teaching resources are eye-opening experiences for teachers.” Faucett-Vestavia Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher Jacqueline Hope attended the 2012 institute after seeing a flyer for AITC in the teacher’s lounge. “I just started thinking I need to learn more about agriculture,” Hope said. “The institute really enlightened me on a lot of things. I think everything was my favorite because it is something authentic I never would have gotten by sitting in the classroom.” The program covers language arts, science, social studies and mathematics skills, including those found in the Alabama courses of

w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Lee County farmer Frank Randall, center, shares fresh eggs and produce with teachers Kathy DeFoor, left, of Eva School in Morgan County and Jacqueline Hope of Faucett-Vestavia Elementary in Tuscaloosa County during last year’s Ag in the Classroom farm tour.

study and on the Stanford 9 Test. Educators completing the program will return to their classrooms armed with lesson plans, examples of hands-on learning activities and books to help teach students about agriculture. Walter Jackson Elementary School librarian and 2012 AITC participant Todd McDonald said the resources he received made him feel prepared to start teaching agriculture lessons on the first day of school. “I’m excited about the box of stuff we’re getting with the books, DVD, lesson plans and PowerPoints,” McDonald said. “I like that Ag in the Classroom has done a lot of the legwork for us, and we can modify it for our own school.” Kindergarten through sixth24

grade teachers, media specialists, administrators, Extension agents and district conservationists are eligible to attend. AITC fulfills continuing education requirements. Only 95 spots are available, and preference is given to first-time attendees. Sponsors include the Alabama Farmers Federation, Alfa Insurance, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Alabama Poultry and Egg Association, Alabama Farmers Federation State Soybean Committee and the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries. Proceeds from the sale of ag tag license plates also benefit the program. For the registration form, visit AlabamaAITC.org. There is no fee to apply or attend. Lodging at the Wynfrey Hotel and meals are provided. For additional information, contact Kim Ramsey at (334) 612-5370 or email kearwood@alfafarmers.org. Mail applications to Kim Ramsey, Alabama Ag in the Classroom, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191 or faxed to (334) 284-3957. n MARCH 2013

College And Career Ready Task Force Aims To Train Students For Future By Mary Johnson

ov. Robert Bentley reinforced his commitment to education and infrastructure with the announcement of the College and Career Ready Task Force Jan. 15. Comprised of representatives from K-12 schools, two-year colleges, four-year colleges and the business community, the task force will pinpoint necessary skills for today’s workplace and develop new programs to train students effectively. As part of the task force, businesses can also be encouraged to invest in career training initiatives. “By coordinating our workforce development efforts, we can give more students a seamless transition from the classroom to the workplace,” Bentley said at the Shelby County School of Technology in Columbiana. “Much of this is already being done across the state, and all we’re trying to do is organize and bring everybody together. The result is that more students will be college- or career-ready, and more people will be able to find a good, well-paying job in Alabama.” Joining the task force are co-chairs Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey; Speaker of the House Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn; Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, R-Oxford; and Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield. Alabama Farmers Federation Young Farmers Director Jennifer Himburg will serve as a member of the task force. “In the past few years, the Farmers Federation has worked hard to ensure funding for agriscience programs, which are an essential part of career tech education,” Himburg said. “These programs meet a great need of providing skilled workers to Alabama’s workforce. We’re thankful Gov. Bentley is looking toward the future of our state in bringing this group together.” Alabama State Superintendent of Education Tommy Bice said the task force will help the state board in reaching its goal of a 90 percent graduation rate by 2020. “One of the greatest challenges in meeting the aggressive (graduation rate) goal — and one that is paramount in this task force that’s being formed today — is developing a shared definition of what (an Alabama) graduate looks like, a definition that is shared not only by K-12 and post-secondary, but equally by higher education, business and industry,” Bice said. “We’re excited the task force can provide a clear target of where we want to move as a state.” Bice noted he and Bentley are convinced the path to a brighter and more productive Alabama rests in the ability to educate and train the state’s existing and future workforce. “The formation of the College and Career Ready Task Force is another step in the direction of making sure Alabama students have the knowledge and skills MARCH 2013

necessary to move seamlessly from high school to college and/or the workforce,” Bice said. “This team has been assembled to make sure we are clearly articulating exactly what is expected... to make sure Alabama students not only graduate from high school, but do so with the ability to successfully transition into college or the workforce without mandatory remediation — a foundational component of the State Board of Education’s PLAN 2020.” For more information, visit governor.alabama.gov. n

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ways to prepare them. Another common edible bloom comes from squash. On a recent trip to a Miami farmer’s market, I saw squash blossoms priced at 50 cents each. I’ve never prepared them, but reliable foodies say they are delicious lightly battered and fried. In Italy, they are often stuffed with ricotta cheese. Perhaps the easiest way to use fresh, edible flowers is on top of salads or cupcakes. Last year I was served a salad in a San Diego restaurant that came beautifully sprinkled with such an assortment that instead of eating them, I spent my time trying to identify them. Other good salad options include the blooms of fallplanted collards and arugula when the longer, warm days of spring cause them to send up flower stalks. Consult reliable herbalists, medical books and online sources to learn more about how flowers are used in the kitchen. Watch for flowers that are poisonous or known for creating allergic reactions. Never assume a flower is edible, even if it comes from a plant that produces edible leaves, stems or fruit. For example, the leaves (not stems) of rhubarb are poisonous. Online research for poisonous plants yields many lists. The Poison Control Center offers a list of the some poisonous common landscape plants online at poison.org. The center is good to consult if children or pets frequent the garden. Some flower garden plants such as lily of the valley are very poisonous. Beware of using flowers treated with pesticides or from areas where herbicides are used nearby. In 2010, Public Garden Journal, the publication for botanical and public gardens, issued a list of edible flowers vetted by James Duke, Ph.D. formerly with the USDA Medicinal Plants Resources Laboratory and author of The Green Pharmacy. Here are a few common edible plants on the list: Bee balm (Monarda didyma), spicy-sweet; basil (Ocimum basilicum), herbal; dill (Anethum graveolens), herbal; Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), spicy-sweet; kale (Brassica oleracea, Acephala), spicy; okra (Abelmoschus aesculentus), mild, sweet; orange (Citrus sinensis), citrusy; nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus), peppery; pineapple sage (Salvia elegans), spicy-sweet; pansy (Viola x wittrockiana), slightly minty; rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis), herbal; oregano (Origanum species), herbal; mustard (Brassica juncea), spicy; mint (Mentha species), minty; thyme (Thymus species), herbal; and cilantro (Coriandrum sativum), herbal. Through careful vetting, flowers can add another dimension to your table— on a plate instead of in a vase. n _________________________________

By Lois Chaplin

ardeners usually think of vegetables, herbs and fruit as providing a harvest, but few consider which flowers are edible. Some herb teas get flavor from dried flowers. Common ones are chamomile (Sleepytime tea), hibiscus (Red Zinger), and linden (Tilo). But teas are only one way that flowers become food. Many fresh blooms from obvious and surprising sources, like chives and daylilies, are used as garnishes and ingredients. The key is knowing which are tried-and-true safe because many flowers are poisonous, even deadly. In some cuisines, certain blossoms are standard fare. For example, dried daylily buds are a traditional ingredient in Chinese hot and sour soup. An Internet search for daylily recipes yields a surprising number of

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

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WWW.ALAFARM.COM 26

MARCH 2013

Pop Mooney’s Mulligan Stew 2 to 3 pounds lean beef stew meat Flour Shortening 2 pounds tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and rough chopped 2 cups sliced carrots 2 cups sliced celery 2 medium onions, cut into wedges 2 turnips, cut into medium chunks 2 bay leaves 4 whole black peppercorns 2 quarts water 2 potatoes, peeled and cut into medium chunks, boiled until tender

Cut meat into bite-sized pieces and remove any excess fat. Dredge with flour. Melt a small amount of shortening in Dutch oven. Brown meat thoroughly. Add remaining ingredients except potatoes Slow cook on top of the stove for 30 minutes. Taste broth and add salt and pepper to taste. Stew is done when vegetables are tender. Add potatoes to individual bowls when serving. Leftovers freeze well without potatoes. Note: Benford says canned crushed tomatoes may be substituted for the fresh chopped tomatoes.

mutton, but I prefer beef, so that’s how I’ve always made it. And Yorkshire Apple Crumble is traditionally served with whipped cream, but it’s really good with ice cream, too,” she says. Born and raised in Washington D.C., Benford met her husband Frank while studying at Auburn University. “His roommate was engaged to my roommate, and I think the two of them spent their senior year at Auburn trying to get all their friends engaged, too,” she recalls. The couple moved periodically during Frank’s career as a statistician for USDA, raising their two children in California and Virginia before the couple returned to the Benford family farm in Chambers County. “Frank’s great-grandfather purchased the farm in 1874, and we’re the fourth generation of his family to live here. At different times, this place has had cotton and other row crops, been a dairy, and had a huge kitchen garden. We have pecan and walnut trees; we grow muscadines and planted blueberry bushes. One of Frank’s main goals is to return the landscaping on the farm to what it was when his grandparents were active, and we’re working toward that,” says Benford.

By Kellie Henderson

ary Helen Benford says she’s always believed anyone who can read can cook, but her Irish and English heritage clearly influenced her repertoire of recipes. “I’ve always liked cooking and experimenting in the kitchen, but since we moved to the farm and I have this nice, big kitchen, I really enjoy it,” explains Benford. With dishes such as Bangers and Mash and Mulligan Stew, Benford still embraces opportunities to refresh the recipes her grandparents enjoyed. “My great-grandfather’s recipe for Mulligan Stew originally called for the more traditionally Irish lamb or

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MARCH 2013

Tipsy Pudding For the Pudding: 1 tablespoon butter 1 ½ cups fine dry bread crumbs 4 eggs, separated ¾ cup superfine sugar 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest For the Mulled Wine: 2 ½ cups red wine 2/3 cup superfine sugar 4 whole cloves Wide strips of zest and juice from 1 lemon Wide strips of zest and juice from 1 orange 1 stick of cinnamon 1 cup heavy cream, whipped, for serving

Preheat oven to 350F. Grease eight 2-inch deep and 3 ½-inch wide ramekins with butter. Evenly coat the insides of the ramekins with 3/8 cup of bread crumbs. Set aside. Beat egg yolks, half the sugar and lemon zest in medium bowl until pale and frothy. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add remaining sugar to egg whites and beat until well mixed. Add ¼ of egg white mixture to yolk mixture and stir to combine. Fold remaining egg white mixture and bread crumbs into yolk mixture until well combined. Divide batter among ramekins and bake on a cookie sheet until puddings are cooked through and golden, about 25 minutes. Allow pudding to cool for five minutes then turn out on a rack to cool completely. For the Mulled Wine: Put wine, sugar, cloves, lemon and orange zest and juices and cinnamon into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, over medium high heat. Reduce to medium low heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain wine, discard solids and set aside to cool. Arrange cooled puddings into a 9- by 13-inch glass casserole dish and drizzle with all of the mulled wine. Cover with plastic wrap and allow pudding to soak (it won’t absorb all of the wine), spooning wine over each pudding occasionally until moist through, about 2 to 3 hours. Serve pudding in shallow bowls, sitting in some mulled wine and topped with a dollop of whipped cream.

Yorkshire Apple Crumble and Cream 6 tart apples, peeled and sliced 6 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 6 teaspoons butter ½ cup packed dark brown sugar ½ cup all-purpose flour ½ cup rolled oats whipped cream

Preheat oven to 350F. Peel and slice apples into a greased 9- by 9-inch baking dish. Combine granulated sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over apples. Dot with two teaspoons of butter. Crumble brown sugar into a bowl to loosen from measuring. Blend the remaining butter into the crumbled brown sugar. Mix flour and rolled oats together and then combine with brown sugar mixture. Spoon over the apples. Cover and bake at 350F for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake until the crust is golden and the apples are tender, about 35 minutes. Serve warm with whipped cream. Cheese Strata 17 slices of white sandwich bread (inexpensive brands work best) ¾ pound each of cheddar, colby and sharp brick cheese 6 eggs 3 cups milk 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon paprika 1 tablespoon dry mustard Dash cayenne

Cut away some of the crusts on the bread slices and then cut them into quarters. Grate cheeses. In a mixing bowl combine eggs, milk, salt, paprika, mustard and cayenne then mix well. Layer in a 9- by 13- by 2-inch casserole dish coated with nonstick spray: ½ the bread, ½ the cheese, ½ the egg/milk mixture. Repeat. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least 24 hours. Bake at 350F for 30 to 45 minutes. Note: If you are using a glass casserole dish you must warm it before you put it in the oven. A good way to do this is to set the casserole dish in hot tap water about halfway up the side.

Orange Cranberry Iced Tea 3 or 4 single cup black tea bags (or 3 to 4 teaspoons of loose tea in tea ball) 1 (6-ounce) can of frozen cranberry juice concentrate, partially thawed and undiluted 1 cup or orange juice ¼ cup granulated sugar

Pour 2 quarts boiling water over tea and let steep 7 to 10 minutes. Remove tea bags or tea ball, and allow tea to cool. In a large pitcher combine cranberry juice concentrate with orange juice. Stir until well mixed. Pour in cooled tea and add sugar and stir until sugar dissolves. Cover and chill in refrigerator for 1 hour. Serve in ice-filled glasses. Note: Benford recommends Tetley’s British Blend or Twinning’s Prince of Wales tea for use in this recipe.

Bangers and Mash 8 large baking potatoes, peeled and quartered 2 teaspoons butter, divided ½ cup milk, more or less as desired Salt and pepper to taste 1 ½ pounds beef sausages ½ cup onion, diced 1 envelope brown gravy mix

Preheat oven to 350F. Place potatoes in a saucepan with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and mash with 1 teaspoon butter and enough milk to reach desired creaminess. Season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausages until heated through. Remove from pan and set aside. Add remaining teaspoon butter and sauté onions over medium heat until tender. Mix gravy according to package directions and add to skillet with the onions. Simmer, stirring constantly, to form a thick gravy. Pour half the gravy into a casserole dish so that it coats the bottom. Butterfly the sausages if desired and place in a layer over the gravy. Pour in remaining gravy and then top with mashed potatoes. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are evenly browned. n

Editor’s Note: Recipes published in the “Country Kitchen” are not kitchen-tested prior to publication. Visit www.AlfaFarmers.org for more recipes. MARCH 2013

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