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VOLUME 42,

NUMBER 3

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

Spring/March 2017

_____________________________________

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 Donald Hodge, New Market Phillip Thompson, Scottsboro Rickey Cornutt, Boaz Joe Anders, Northport Dell Hill, Alpine Joe Lambrecht, Wetumpka Meador Jones, Gallion Garry Henry, Hope Hull Steve Stroud, Goshen Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Fred Helms, Dothan Nell Miller, Snead Jerry Allen Newby, Athens

4

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.

4

Ag Center Coming To AIDB

8

Commodity Leaders Elected

16 Calling Duck Hunters 20 Mill Hatches Economic Boon

16

30 Swing Your Partner

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

36 Celebrate Peanut Recipes

MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES: , 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org

On The Cover

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com

Wayne Farms South Alabama Feed Mill near

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.

like Coffee County’s Josh Snellgrove, and an

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Ozark is creating new opportunities for farmers, economic upsurge for the Wiregrass.

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Photo by Debra Davis

John Smith mber: 071910 Membership Nu rs Federation Alabama Farme /17 Void After: 12/21

MEMBER IDENT

COUNTY PRES

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation Spring/March 2017

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Hundreds of new LOCAL member benefits are now available. Visit AlfaFarmers.org to see how your membership card saves you on services, restaurants and more! w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Ag Center Teaches Limitless Lessons For Alabamians With Disabilities

By Marlee Moore

I

n a county perhaps best known for race cars circling in seemingly infinite loops, Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind (AIDB) students are speeding toward limitless opportunities studying the world’s most basic field of work — agriculture.

Thanks to an anonymous $1 million donation, AIDB is building the Joe Tom Armbrester Agriculture Center in Talladega to expand agriscience studies and teach students independence. The center is set to open in August.

“AIDB prides itself on its diversity, not just of our people, but in our programs,” said AIDB President John Mascia. “Those with sensory loss need hands-on Helen Keller School agriscience teacher Rachel Chastain signs the word potato to students Tyler Beard, training. Ag allows our kids left, and Jacob Seago while teaching them about plants. to experience something they haven’t thought they could be learn to care for, and we incubate eggs and care for successful at.” chicks,” said Chastain, a Talladega County Farmers Named in memory of Armbrester, a local farmer Federation member. “A typical special needs classroom whose wife Jan taught art at AIDB, the center will may offer Play-Doh to help build hand strength. I use serve the institute’s five Talladega campuses, includa variety of water spray and squeeze bottles to water ing the Alabama School for the Deaf (ASD), Alabama plants.”

School for the Blind (ASB) and Helen Keller School In 2016, Chastain mentioned expanding her agri(HKS), plus Alabama Industries for the Blind and E.H. science program to Dennis Gilliam, then-interim HKS Gentry, an adult learning facility. principal, who encouraged her to be limitless like her At HKS, agriscience teacher Rachel Chastain’s students. flair for creativity (using an old Pack ‘n Play to brood Chastain dreamed big and proposed a state-of-thechickens) and resourcefulness (an Ag in the Classroom art ag center to serve AIDB and the community. mini-grant funded a chicken tractor) is a godsend for The donor’s gift lays the groundwork for the cenher students, who have multiple disabilities. ter’s first phase, including a barn-like classroom, “Our program has been great for students who love kitchen, orchards and raised beds accessible to all to get their hands dirty. We have a class rabbit they students.

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

4

Spring/March 2017

Making the center accessible greatly increases cost, said Patti Anne Chastain, AIDB assistant director of foundation giving programs. Continued financial support will come from the AIDB Foundation.

“We need to raise more funds for equipment and so the center will be sustained in the future,” she said, noting that more expensive concrete paths will be poured instead of gravel walkways to accommodate those in wheelchairs.

Chastain and fellow agriscience teachers, Leslie Wright at ASB and Jim Hall at ASD, have endless expansions in mind, from hydroponics and bees to a pond and Alabama School for the Deaf agriscience teacher Jim Hall educates students about seeds and growing farmers market. seasons. The raised beds were made by older students in shop class, one facet of Hall's agriscience Though they focus on various curriculum. aspects of agriscience education — “This is important work,” he said. “A farmer is Wright with greenhouses, Hall with being honored because of the way he lived his life and woodworking, hunter safety and plant sales — their served his community. That’s a very important mesgoal is the same: promote independence and connect sage for our students.” students to food production and the world around To learn more, visit AIDB.org or contact Dennis them.

Gilliam at (256) 761-3737 or gilliam.dennis@aidb.state.

It’s Mascia’s goal, too. al.us. n

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Applicants for Alfa Foundation scholarships must be members of Alabama Farmers Federation. Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation scholarships are available to Federation members and their children.

Spring/March 2017

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

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Opelika Staple Stirs Up Alabama’s Best Milkshake In Statewide Contest

By Mary Johnson

A

fter a weeklong trip to South Korea visiting partner manufacturing groups, Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller had only one request when he returned to Alabama.

“I had a Mrs. Story’s footlong chili cheese dog and vanilla milkshake on my mind for the last three or four days of that trip,” Fuller said. “That’s what I ended up having for dinner when I got back, and it was wonderful. It might have been the best one I’ve ever tasted.”

Fuller isn’t the only Alabamian who loves the milkshakes at Mrs. Story’s Dairy Bar. Fans of the little family-owned, walk-up restaurant helped it earn the title of “Alabama’s Best Milkshake” in a contest hosted on Simply Southern TV’s Facebook page in November 2016.

For the contest, nominations were accepted from Facebook users, and eight Alabama restaurants were selected as finalists. Mrs. Story’s Dairy Bar won the contest over second-place finisher Cardinal Drive-In in Moulton by more than 300 votes.

“This is awesome and such a blessing,” said Rhonda Boothe, who owns Mrs. Story’s Dairy Bar with her husband, Bob. “I think our milkshakes are different because of the products we use. We use whole milk, real fruit and ice cream. The shakes are actually made on an old-timey milkshake machine, too.”

For winning the contest, the Boothes received a plaque and a $300 cash prize, sponsored by the American Dairy Association of Alabama and the Southeastern United Dairy Industry Association (SUDIA).

Lee County dairy farmer and SUDIA representative Darrell Rankins said the contest was a great way to promote local businesses while reminding consumers about dairy’s health benefits.

“Everyone knows dairy products are a good source of calcium and Vitamin D, but they're also a very nutritious source of protein,” he said.

Rankins helped judge a “Best of the Best” contest, which involved taste-testing five of Mrs. Story’s Dairy Bar’s best-sellers.

“We decided the chocolate walnut was the overall winner,” Rankins said. “There’s no milkshake I wouldn’t like, but a combination of ice cream, chocolate and nuts will always go to the top of the list.”

There are plenty of milkshake flavors to choose from at Mrs. Story’s Dairy Bar, from the standard

Spring/March 2017

Mrs. Story's Dairy Bar was voted Alabama's Best Milkshake

by Simply Southern TV viewers. From left are Cusseta dairy farmer Darrell Rankins representing SUDIA; Simply Southern TV co-host Mary Johnson; and restaurant owners Rhonda and Bob Boothe with their son and future owner, Blake.

vanilla, chocolate or strawberry to the more unique pineapple, cherry, orange or caramel. The rest of the menu features hot dogs, chili dogs and ice cream.

Dan and Annie Story opened the restaurant as a Dari Delite in May 1952 and changed its name 10 years later to Mrs. Story’s Dairy Bar. Cora Reames, granddaughter of the original owners, was the second generation of the family to run the business.

“It’s really funny to me that after all these years, people who didn’t know my grandmother will still call me Mrs. Story when I’m out at the grocery store or somewhere,” Reames said. “I’m very proud to be part of the family that started this 65 years ago. My daughter and son-in-law own it now, and when they retire, my grandson plans to buy the business so it will keep going.”

The must-try milkshake mainstay is located off Pepperell Parkway in Opelika. Watch Simply Southern TV on March 5 for a segment on Mrs. Story’s Dairy Bar and Alabama’s Best Milkshake Contest.

Simply Southern TV is a production of the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alabama Farmers Cooperative that airs Sunday mornings on stations in Birmingham; Columbus, Georgia; Dothan; Huntsville; Mobile; and Montgomery. Find more information at SimplySouthernTV.net.

SUDIA works with schools, health professionals, retailers, dairy processors and the public to promote dairy foods. For more information, visit SoutheastDairy.org. n 7

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

Farmers Elect Federation State Commodity Committee Leaders

By Debra Davis

N

early 700 farmers representing every major commodity grown in Alabama elected state committee members Feb. 7-9 to help chart the course for the state’s largest farm organization.

The Alabama Farmers Federation’s three-day Commodity Organizational Meeting was held at the Embassy Suites in Montgomery. The Alabama Peanut Producers Association (APPA) met in Dothan Feb. 9.

The Federation’s Brian Hardin said farmers at the meetings determined goals for their respective commodities and helped set the organization’s policy, in addition to electing committee leaders.

“The state committee structure is a great way for our farmers to choose what the organization will focus on,” said Hardin, the Federation’s Governmental and Agricultural Programs director. “In addition to elections for the 17 commodities our organization represents, farmers can learn about research and discuss

U.S. Senator Luther Stranger, second from right, spoke at the Federation's Commodity Organizational Meeting the day before his appointment, Feb. 9. From left are Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Cullman County farmer Ben Haynes, Strange and Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan.

governmental regulations and production practices.”

Hardin said the Federation’s Commodity Organizational Meeting exemplifies grassroots structure.

Lowndes County farmer

Thomas Ellis along with his son, Stinson, attended the Equine Committee meeting Feb. 8. Ellis, who also raises pecans and cattle, said the meeting provides networking and educational opportunities.

“I can always learn something

2017 COMMODITY COMMITTEES

Bee & Honey — Phillip Garrison, Cullman; Patty Lambrecht, Elmore; Troy Latham, Mobile; and Lindsey Trousdale, Morgan.

Beef — Mahlon Richburg, Lee; Anthony Faggard, Mobile; Billy Hixon, Pike; and David Evans, St. Clair.

Catfish — Butch Wilson, Dallas and Kent Houlditch, Greene.

Cotton — Cody Young, Barbour; Neal Isbell, Colbert; Ricky Wiggins, Covington; and Sammy Roney, Houston.

Dairy — Thomas Payton, DeKalb and Matt Green, Russell.

Equine — Jim Roulaine, Bibb; Jack Wallace, Colbert; Sammy Hindman, Fayette; and Tina Hammonds, Lowndes.

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Forestry — Brian Agnew, Bullock; Chris Langley, Chambers; Billy Joe Johnson, Cherokee; Norphlett McCollum, Clay; and Philip Hardee, Monroe.

Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod —Jason Powell, Chilton; Heather Wright, Dallas; Charles Tew, Elmore; and Jason Lazenby, Lee. Hay & Forage — Winford Parmer, Autauga; Jack Robertson, Chambers; Jeff Lassiter, Choctaw; and Mark Landers, Tuscaloosa.

Horticulture — John Aplin, Geneva; Beth Hornsby, Lee; Art Sessions, Mobile; and Mike Reeves, Morgan.

Meat Goat & Sheep — Jimmy Parker, Cullman; Kirk Smith, Cullman; Stacey Nestor, Montgomery; and Travis Nelson, Randolph.

8

Pork — Jon Petree, Franklin; Joe Bradley, Randolph; and Roland St. John, St. Clair.

Poultry — Dennis Maze, Blount; Chris Upchurch, Clay; Mark Byrd, Morgan; and Greg Edwards, Russell.

Soybeans — Tommy Sewell, Etowah; John Tucker, Lawrence; David Ellis, Marshall; Jeremy Wilson, Talladega; and John E. Walker III, Tuscaloosa.

Wheat & Feed Grains — Nick McMichen, Cherokee; Ron Brumley, Colbert; Don Glenn, Lawrence; and John Bevel, Marshall.

Wildlife — Leo Allen, Choctaw; Bob Plaster, Elmore; Charlie Clark, Escambia; and Trey Montgomery, Greene.

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Feb. 7, farmers attended the Federation’s State Bee & Honey; Beef; Catfish; Pork; Soybean; and Wheat & Feed Grains meetings.

The Feb. 8 meetings were for Cotton; Equine; Horticulture; Meat Goat & Sheep; Poultry; and Wildlife Resources committees.

The Feb. 9 meeting wrapped up the Montgomery meetings with Dairy; Forestry; Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod; and Hay & Forage divisions and an Alabama TREASURE Forest Association meeting.

In addition to electing new commodity leaders, outgoing commodity committee members were honored during lunch each day. They were: Bee & Honey — Barry Banks, Walker County; and Hobson Hite, Cullman County Beef — Mike Henry, Montgomery County Cotton — Sammy Gibbs, Escambia County Dairy — Mike Ryan, Tuscaloosa County; and David Wright, Calhoun County Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod — Ed Dennis, Dallas County; and Bethany O’Rear, Blount County Hay & Forage — Joe Potter, Colbert County Horticulture — John Neighbors, Tallapoosa County Meat Goat & Sheep — Drexel Johnson, Coffee County; and Charlie Thompson, Lauderdale County Soybean — Rickey Cornutt, Marshall County Wheat & Feed Grains — Stanley Walters, Marengo County; and Andy Wendland, Autauga County Wildlife Resources — Will Ainsworth, Marshall County; Jimmy Jimmerson, Cleburne County; and Mike Parmer, Autauga County.

For APPA election results, visit ALPeanuts.com. n

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“Soybeans are a versatile crop that work well on our farm. Research paid for by farmer checkoff dollars helps develop new uses and markets for soybeans. That research also helps find ways to reduce farmer input costs and increase yields.”

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he Alabama Farmers Federation praised confirmation of former U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., as United States attorney general Feb. 8.

“Jeff Sessions is a friend of Alabama farmers and a steadfast defender of the rule of law,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “He has a spotless record of pursuing justice as a U.S. attorney, Alabama’s attorney general and U.S. senator. The American people are blessed to have someone of Jeff Sessions’ character as our nation’s chief law enforcement official.”

Throughout his career Sessions maintained a close working relationship with Alabama farmers and rural families. In 1998, he received the Federation’s highest honor — the Service to Agriculture Award.

As senator, Sessions worked to ensure federal regulations complied with Congressional intent. He also fought to protect Alabama catfish farmers from the dumping of inferior Asian fish on the U.S. market.

Known as a “budget hawk” in the Senate, Sessions has been a vocal advocate for tax relief, regu-

Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, right, and Chilton County peach farmer Jimmie Harrison, left, in an earlier photo with newly appointed U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions.

latory reform and reduced government spending.

“Growing up helping his parents at their country store, Sen. Sessions learned the values of faith, hard work and integrity,” Parnell said.

“He is a veteran, a patriot and a true public servant.

“Sen. Sessions has dedicated his life to ensuring justice for all Americans while helping working people keep more of their hardearned money. We look forward to working with him in his new role as attorney general.” n

Alabama Farmers Federation Praises Luther Strange Appointment

T

he Alabama Farmers Federation congratulated Attorney General Luther Strange on his appointment as U.S. Senator for Alabama Feb. 9.

“Attorney General Strange is a strong defender of the law and has already shown leadership at the national level by pushing back against regulatory overreach,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “Alabama farmers have enjoyed a close working relationship with Luther for 20 years, and we look forward to helping him address the needs of rural Alabama as U.S. senator.”

Prior to being elected attorney general in 2010, Strange was in

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

private practice in Birmingham.

Among his clients were greenhouse, nursery and sod growers whom he advised related to water restrictions during severe drought.

One of Strange’s last speaking engagements prior to his Senate appointment was the Federation’s Commodity Organizational Meeting Feb. 7 in Montgomery.

He spoke to 300 farmers about his optimism that Congress and the Trump administration will bring fiscal and regulatory reforms to help hard working Americans.

As attorney general, Strange vigorously defended Alabama’s property tax system, including current-use classification for farms 12

and forestland. He also was a vocal opponent of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, challenging the measure in court.

“Luther Strange values the rule of law and understands the importance of America’s separation of powers,” Parnell said. “When the courts and federal agencies attempted to make law that went beyond what’s allowed by the legislative branch or constitution, he stood in the gap. We look forward to working with Sen. Strange on issues important to our members.”

The special election for the U.S. Senate seat will take place in 2018. n Spring/March 2017

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Duck Hunting Soars At Dutch Bend

By Marlee Moore

W

aterfowl hunting is soaring to new heights in the Southeast, encouraging two brothers from Autauga County to tap into the industry.

“Duck hunting seems to be the thing in the outdoor world,” said Will Shackelford, who opened Dutch Bend Hunting Preserve with his brother, Reid, last year.

The brothers, 22 and 15 respectively, lead waterfowl hunts on the family row crop and cattle farm from October to March. With a modest amount of ducks traveling across Alabama through the Mississippi Flyway, Will said hunters don’t consider the state an Eden for felling birds. To increase bird diversity and quantity, and to build hunt quality, the Shackelfords pen raised and released ducks last fall.

“In this part of the state, there aren’t many mallards,” Will said.

“We wanted to provide a variety of ducks for hunters.”

Last spring, Will learned about a duck farm near Scottsboro. After researching loans, reading about w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

From left, brothers Will and Reid Shackelford operate Dutch Bend Hunting Preserve on their family farm in Autaugaville. They bought 500 baby ducks last year, which they’ve released on their property to enhance the hunting experience.

raising ducks and combining that information with his knowledge of guiding deer hunts, Will was all in.

All it took was one conversation with his father, Rob, and Dutch Bend Hunting Preserve was a go.

“I had a whole speech written out, but he was immediately on board,” said Will, an Auburn University agricultural economics student.

Before coming home to roost on the Shackelfords’ property in 16

early July, 500 baby ducks were fed cracked corn. Will and Reid call their ducks free-range, and though the ducks are released, the brothers scatter poultry feed to supplement wild forage.

While Will is at Auburn, Reid, a freshman at Marbury High School, juggles duck tending with school and athletics. The Shackelfords’ sister, Raegan, is also a Dutch Bend business partner.

The farm’s cattle operation Spring/March 2017

received a double benefit last summer when the ducks kept armyworms at bay, and Dutch Bend seized an unexpected bonus when drought drove wild waterfowl populations to their ponds, situated in a pasture near the Alabama River.

Though most of their ducks are pen raised, the Shackelfords say hunt quality doesn’t suffer.

“They fly like a wild duck, so you have to shoot like it’s a wild duck,” Will said.

After months of preparation, Dutch Bend’s first shots were finally fired last October.

Most Dutch Bend visitors hunt while preparing to head to fly zones in other states, which have up to six times more birds than Alabama.

“People mainly come because they want their dogs to practice

before hunting in Louisiana or Arkansas,” Reid said.

While hunting seasons vary depending on state and duck type, preserves like Dutch Bend are open from Oct. 1 to March 31.

“Our season is a lot longer so more people can come out and practice,” said Will. “In Alabama, it’s hard to get this kind of experience outside a preserve.”

Will and Reid, who learned to duck hunt when they were 12 and 9, call Dutch Bend an ideal firsttime hunting experience.

“Our setup is perfect for firsttime or young hunters,” Will said.

“Even our location and duck blind are easily accessible to make the hunting experience better.”

The blind is built to reduce detection of hunters and is made of

cedar trees, reeds, swamp grass and natural vegetation. It can hold up to nine hunters.

“It’s a walk-in-the-park kind of duck hunting,” Reid said.

“Customers get to enjoy the hunt.”

Though it’s not essential to hunting waterfowl, Will said cold, windy, cloudy, drizzly days make for the best duck hunting experience. Their blind keeps hunters somewhat hidden from the elements.

“If it’s the kind of weather that makes you want to stay inside, it’s perfect,” he said.

Prime time for duck hunting is sunrise, the brothers say, and hunts ring up to $225 per person and include six ducks. Unlike daily kill limits in the wild, hunting on preserves is unlimited, though additional birds come at a cost, Reid said.

“We want hunters to let their dogs fetch as many ducks as they want,” said Will, whose yellow Labrador Mojo is on hand to retrieve birds if guests don’t bring a dog. “It’s all about making our customers feel comfortable and giving them an enjoyable hunting experience in central Alabama.”

For more information, visit DutchBendHunting.wixsite.com/ dbhp or find Dutch Bend Hunting Preserve on Instagram and Facebook. n Will Shackelford calls ducks at Dutch Bend Hunting Preserve. Will started duck hunting when he was 12 and opened Dutch Bend with his brother last year.

Spring/March 2017

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New Poultry Feed Mill Is Economic Boon To Wiregrass Area

By Debra Davis

W

ayne Farms’ new South Alabama Feed Mill near Ozark opened Jan. 10 and will soon provide feed to millions of chickens on hundreds of Wiregrass farms.

But the massive concrete structure is more than chicken feed. The $55-million project represents jobs and economic growth.

“This project means the world to our county,” said Dale County Commission Chairman Mark Blankenship. “I think we may become known as the chicken capital of the world, and that’s fine with us. It means jobs and opportunity for our citizens.”

The new 50,000-square-foot plant is 232 feet tall and sits on 165 acres. It is part of a $150-million project by Wayne Farms in southeast Alabama that included the mill, expected farm expansions and updated processing facilities.

Dubbed one of the largest feed

mills in North America, the facility can produce 25,000 tons of feed a week using the main ingredients of corn and soybeans.

In addition to the 80 jobs the new mill creates, Wayne Farms Chief Operating Officer Clint Rivers said the facility’s payroll will pump $3 million annually into the local economy.

“But this mill means more than

those jobs,” Rivers said. “This feed mill is connected to the $60 million investment in our Dothan processing plant that provides 500 new jobs for that area. So when you ask which came first, the processing plant or the feed mill, it begins with the feed mill.”

Wayne Farms has three poultry processing facilities in southeast Alabama — Union Springs, Enterprise and Dothan. The new mill will deliver feed to a network of farms in and around those areas who grow chickens specifically for Wayne Farms.

The new mill also is expected to be a boon for local row crop farmers since company officials expect to buy 3 million bushels of corn annually from area farmers. However, most of the corn and soybeans used by the mill will be delivered by rail cars. A state-of-the-art rail and elevator system at the mill can unload 90 carloads of grain in 15 hours.

Rivers thanked local and state government officials whom he said were pivotal in the project’s success, including Alabama Ag and Industries Commissioner John McMillan.

“It’s a big deal for Alabama and especially this part of the state,” McMillan told more than 100 people present for the ceremonial ribbon cutting, Jan. 10.

McMillan took the opportunity to thank Alabama legislators at the event, reminding them of the importance of agriculture in the state.

McMillan also urged legislators to support funding for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation permits required for many Alabama poultry and livestock farms. n Members of the Alabama Legislature attended the Wayne Farms South Alabama Feed Mill opening in Ozark, Jan. 10. From left are Alabama Reps. Steve Clouse, R-Ozark, and Donnie Chesteen, R-Geneva; Ag & Industries Commissioner John McMillan; Rep. Paul Lee, R-Dothan and House Agriculture Committee Chair Rep. David Sessions, R-Grand Bay.

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Spring/March 2017

Poultry Provides New Opportunities For Wiregrass Farmers

By Debra Davis

T

wo years ago, Josh and Jennifer Snellgrove jumped at the chance to join a growing number of farmers investing in poultry, Alabama’s No. 1 agricultural industry.

For years, the Coffee County couple, whose son, Trevor, is a student at Troy University, considered poultry farming. Construction of Wayne Farms’ new poultry feed mill near Ozark, only 20 miles from their farm, catapulted their dream to reality.

“We heard Wayne Farms was expanding, and at the same time Josh was looking for a new career opportunity,” said Jennifer, who works at First National Bank in Brundidge. “We filled out an application with Wayne Farms in February 2015 and had our first flock eight months later. Those eight months were a whirlwind of construction and learning all we could about the business. But it was

Spring/March 2017

an awesome feeling when that first flock arrived.”

Wayne Farms Chief Operating Officer Clint Rivers predicts the new feed mill will lead to 165 new poultry houses with an investment of $60 million by local farmers.

Josh said several of his friends are poultry farmers, and he’s heard others talk about joining the ranks.

“People are surprised at the electronics and advanced technology in today’s poultry houses,” Josh said.

“There’s a lot to learn about the systems that control feed, water and the environment for the birds.

Those things help us take good care of our chickens, but we still have to make sure everything is in working order.”

Josh said his biggest challenge was the transition to self-employment and adjusting to a paycheck that comes a few times a year instead of bi-weekly.

“The freedom and responsibility of being my own boss is also what I find the most satisfying and 21

Jennifer and Josh Snellgrove built four new poultry houses as part of Wayne Farms’ expansion in southeast Alabama.

rewarding,” said Josh, who formerly worked for a regional utility company.

And it’s big business in Alabama. The state ranks second in the nation behind Georgia in broiler production, said Alabama Farmers Federation Poultry Division Director Guy Hall. Poultry and egg production, including processing, has an economic impact of $15.1 billion in Alabama.

“Poultry farming requires a considerable financial investment by farmers, but the industry has been good to our state,” Hall said.

“Poultry provides diversification and works well with other farm enterprises like row crops and cattle.”

Alabama farmers raise more than a billion birds each year, and poultry is responsible for more than 86,000 jobs in the state, Hall said. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Alabama Row Crop Farmers Face Continuing Challenges

By Maggie Lawrence

“It probably means less small grains harvested this year,” Runge said.

Farmers can expect inputs, particularly fertilizer and fuel, to rise slightly, he said. Recent rate increases by the Federal Reserve will likely result in higher interest rates for farmers.

Midwest soybean acreage is expected to increase in 2017, which could push prices lower, making soybeans less desirable for Alabama farmers to plant, Runge said.

Alabama farmers could plant as much as 20 percent more cotton in 2017, which would drive cotton plantings to more than 410,000 acres, he added. About 345,000 acres of cotton were planted in 2016.

“Cotton prices are stronger than anticipated, so it’s understandable that acreage predictions are up,” Runge said.

“Prices for other major row crops will be low, especially corn.

“I think there are opportunities for some lesser crops, such as grain sorghum, sesame and canola. But farmers face risks of lower prices for these crops as well — combined with the increased efforts of marketing and selling these crops.”

Runge provided a list to help farmers improve profitability: • Take care of basics such as soil tests, know production costs and make sure money spent offers a return on investment.

• If commodity prices reach levels where farmers can lock in a profit, they should commit and negotiate contracts.

• When considering capital investments, farmers should evaluate their financial situation, especially equity and cash flow.

• Keep in touch with USDA agencies and crop insurance providers for any changes to federal programs, including insurance and other risk management programs. n

F

or Alabama’s row crop farmers, 2016 was both good and bad, according to Max Runge, an Alabama Extension economist. While drought conditions held corn and soybean yields below the five-year average, 2016 may post record-high cotton yields.

“If estimates hold, this will be a record yield of 987 pounds per acre,” Runge said. He added other crops did not fare as well.

“How you weathered the year depended on where you were,” he said. “Corn growers in northern areas of the state really suffered from drought, but in parts of south Alabama, some growers had reasonable yields.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Crop Production 2016 Summary estimated Alabama corn production is up 5 percent, thanks to increased acreage.

Drought conditions reduced corn yields to an average 120 bushels per acre, down from 147 in 2015.

Runge noted corn prices were weak because of large U.S. and world grain stocks.

While soybean prices were stronger than anticipated, drought reduced yields in many areas.

“According to USDA, Alabama soybean production was down 35 percent from 2015,” Runge said.

However, he also said reduced fuel and fertilizer costs in 2016 helped balance increased costs in seeds and other inputs.

Looking at 2017 Runge said 2017 doesn’t look bright for farmers.

One issue to consider is reduced fall cover crops.

“Most farmers plant fall cover crops, whether to reduce erosion, add organic matter or double crop small grains,” he said.

Drought prevented many farmers from planting these crops, and while other farmers planted, drought affected germination and stand development.

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Spring/March 2017

Alabama Farmers Federation Applauds Perdue Nomination

A

labama’s largest farm organization praised President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of former Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue as Secretary of Agriculture.

“Gov. Perdue understands Southern agriculture and is a longtime friend of farmers,” said Alabama Perdue Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “He was raised on a farm and appreciates the importance of agriculture to our health, security and economy.”

As governor, Perdue, 70, represented diverse agricultural commodities — from peanuts and poultry to forestry and feed grains. Parnell said Perdue’s experience will bring fresh perspective to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“We look forward to working with Secretary Perdue and his team to ensure USDA programs and services address the needs of farmers of all commodities and all regions of the country,” Parnell said. “As Congress begins work on a new farm bill, it will be important to have a Secretary of Agriculture who understands the role USDA plays in agriculture, conservation, risk management, nutrition and trade.”

The son of a teacher and farmer, Perdue was born

in Perry, Georgia. A veterinarian by trade, Perdue graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. He served 10 years in the Georgia Senate before being elected governor in 2002. He easily won re-election in 2006.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall worked with Perdue while president of Georgia Farm Bureau.

“The nomination of former Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue for Secretary of Agriculture is welcome news to the nation’s farmers and ranchers,” Duvall said. “Gov. Perdue will provide the strong voice that agriculture needs in the new administration. He is an outstanding nominee.”

Perdue has a long history in the grain and feed industry. He was a founding partner for AGrow Star, a grain business with 11 elevator locations across Georgia and South Carolina. He serves on the National Grain and Feed Association and as secretary for the Georgia Agribusiness Council. He previously served as president of the Southeastern Grain and Feed Association.

A man of faith, Perdue garnered national headlines as governor for leading a public prayer for rain on the Capitol steps during a drought. Perdue’s nomination must be confirmed by the Senate. n

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Forest Industry Feels Continued Effects Of Last Fall's Drought

T

hough winter rains have given much-needed relief to Alabama’s parched soil, the state’s forests continue to be affected by last year’s drought, said the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association’s (ATFA) Rick Oates.

Drought postponed site preparation, including controlled burns, and delayed tree planting. Lack of sufficient ground moisture for seedling survival also pushed back 2017 planting.

“Many contractors and companies delayed receiving trees — and therefore planting — two to three weeks because of drought,” said Oates, ATFA’s executive director. “Recent heavy rains should have left enough ground moisture to ensure seedling success, but warm days are still likely throughout the rest of planting season.”

Nurseries generally lift young trees from the soil for delivery within a couple days, but above-average temperatures delayed lifting and transport, he added.

“You need to plant when it’s cold so the seedlings

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

will stay dormant,” Oates said. “If the trees start growing in warm temperatures and a cold snap comes along, that could tamper with tree health and profitability.”

Drought also stressed trees, making them more vulnerable to diseases and pests.

“Water deficits weaken natural defenses of trees, which allows pests and diseases to thrive,” Oates said. “Although we haven’t immediately seen effects on mature trees, we expect increasing reports of pests, like southern pine beetles, as it warms up this spring.”

Limited rainfall proved advantageous for the state’s loggers, who were able to log areas inaccessible under normal conditions.

“A lot of timber was cut in Alabama during the drought since loggers could access areas too wet in a typical year,” Oates said. “At the same time, extra timber flooded the market during a season when mills generally expect a decrease in logging activities.

Mills couldn’t keep up with the supply of timber.”

According to the Jan. 26 U.S. Drought Monitor, 49 percent of Alabama was still in a drought. n

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Enriching Customer Experience Focus Of Alfa’s New Tech Overhaul

“I

t’ll transform the way we do business.”

Those are words Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell uses to explain the company’s adoption of Guidewire InsuranceSuite™ — a modular software platform used by property and casualty insurance companies across the globe. Replacing Alfa’s existing systems is a significant undertaking, Parnell said, but one that will make the company stronger and more competitive.

“A few of the systems our folks use have been around since the 1960s, and others require a lot of manual entry and paperwork,” he said. “Our company and our customers deserve better, and that’s what this investment is about — creating a better future for Alfa.”

The investment Parnell mentioned involves more than the multi-million-dollar cost of overhauling Alfa’s computer systems.

Since 2014, Alfa employees have

invested over a half-million hours of work into the upgrade, and the company’s implementation partners — including specialists from Ernst & Young and Guidewire — have spent an additional half-million hours on the project.

Thanks to their tireless collaboration, Alfa launched Guidewire in pilot service centers Nov. 21, 2016.

All offices are expected to process new business on Guidewire later this year, with renewals and other lines to follow.

Supervising Customer Service Representative (CSR) Amy Coley of Centre, Alabama, said she loved working with the new program.

“It has been a godsend,” said Coley, whose office was a pilot site.

“Guidewire is user-friendly, and it allows us to be more efficient and give better customer service.”

Opelika, Alabama CSR Teresa Lackey echoed Coley’s review, adding that she’s really enjoyed how

the system shaves time off routine processes.

“Guidewire is going to change the way we do business for the better,” Lackey said. “Once we set up an account on a customer, their information auto-populates across all other lines. That’s a huge deal — for us, and for the customer.

We’re able to help them with their insurance needs faster than ever, and that’s a good feeling.”

In addition to increased efficiencies, Guidewire’s capabilities include clearer, cleaner documents; improved policy applications; more accurate quoting; and additional payment plan options.

“We want doing business with Alfa to be a positive experience, and Guidewire plays a significant role in that,” Parnell said.

As Guidewire rolls out, customers may see a different look to billing documents. For billing questions, contact a local Alfa office. n

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Sheila and Wayne Mahathey met as teenagers during square-dancing lessons with the Brindlee Mountain Promenaders in Marshall County. The two have been married 30 years and now dance together Monday nights with the Guntersville Lake Twirlers, where Wayne is the caller.

r ou Y g n i w S er n t Par

Square Dancing Leads Couple To Lifelong Love

By Mary Johnson

B

ow to your partner. Now bow to the corner.

It’s how every square dance starts, with a polite gesture that sets the tone for the entire experience.

When a young Sheila Mahathey first learned these words during square dance lessons with the Brindlee Mountain Promenaders in Marshall County, she never expected to find a partner for life.

“My mother, daddy and I started lessons in 1980, and that’s when I first met Wayne,” said the former Sheila Nabors. “We didn’t have just one dance partner, but Wayne was part of a group of teenagers that was taking lessons at the same time.”

The two started dating a few years later and have been married w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

30 years. While they stay busy with their day jobs — Sheila is a CSR with Alfa Insurance in Arab and Wayne is a mechanic with Arab Electric Cooperative — their Monday evenings are still spent on the dance floor.

The Mahatheys are members of the Guntersville Lake Twirlers, one of over 40 clubs associated with the Alabama Square and Round Dance Association (ASRDA). The club meets weekly at the Guntersville Senior Center.

“In today’s environment, you won’t find many family oriented activities like square dancing,” Sheila said. “There’s no alcohol or bad language, so you feel good about bringing your family.”

From dosido and allemande left to square thru and grand square, 30

the Mahatheys know every step that can be called, in part because Wayne has been a square dance caller since he was 16.

“When we were taking lessons, the gentleman who taught us, Jim Hydrick, noticed I was singing every word of the song as he was calling,” Wayne said. “He gave me a couple 45 records and said ‘Next week, you’re going to call these for me.’ So that’s how I got started.”

Wayne learned his calling skills from Hydrick and training sessions called Callers Colleges. Wayne said calling requires a love for music, good musical timing and attention to detail.

It takes four couples to make one square. During any given dance, Wayne might be keeping track of up to six squares on the floor at the same time, each with dancers of different skill levels and ages. Guntersville Lake Twirlers range in age from 12 to 84.

“The dancers execute the caller’s calls. And if you’ve done it all successfully, everyone should have their original partner by their side at the end of the song,” he said.

Even though it’s almost an hour drive from their Huntsville home, John and Jan Bloodworth joined the Guntersville Lake Twirlers because of Wayne’s calling style.

“He calls fast, and he calls by Spring/March 2017

sight. He doesn’t memorize all the calls, so it’s always different,” Jan said.

John was reluctant to start square dance lessons in 1980, but now he’s serving a one-year term as Guntersville Lake Twirlers president.

“When Jan told me we were going to learn square dancing, I told her ‘I don’t think so,’” John said. “But she convinced me, and as it turns out, I like it just as much as she does.”

While both couples enjoy the activity, the Mahatheys said they look forward to weekly dances because of the people involved.

“This is friendship set to music with the nicest folks you’ll ever meet,” Wayne said.

To find a local square dance club, visit Square dancing can be fun for people of all ages. The youngest Guntersville Lake Twirler is 12 years old, while AlabamaSquareDance.com. n the oldest is 84.

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W

hen cooks keep herbs right outside their door, it’s surprising how often they can step outside for a sprig of this and that. Certain herbs must be fresh—the dry forms aren’t as good — and unused dry herbs lose flavor over time.

To borrow a phrase from a more nefarious trade, garden pros often jokingly call culinary herbs “gateway plants” because success with these may launch folks on a lifetime gardening adventure as they branch out to grow vegetables and flowers. Here’s a list of some herbs that draw value either from ease, unequaled freshness or economy. Not listed are classics like rosemary, thyme and oregano because although worthy of garden space, they’re okay if purchased dried.

Aloe. Squeeze aloe juice on burns and cuts to help heal wounds. Aloe lives indefinitely in a container in a sunny window or on a shady porch.

Basil. It’s popular because cooks know there’s an aromatic quality in fresh basil leaves that dried leaves can’t match. In addition to the well-known Italian basil (Genovese), Thai basil has a savory, cinnamonlike fragrance and flavor essential in Asian cooking.

At the end of summer, preserve some of the full flavor in pesto or oil to use during the off season.

Bay (Laurus nobilis). Although dry is easy to buy and keep, why not have an endless personal supply? Bay trees are cold-hardy in central and south Alabama, living for many years. Gardeners use the endless supply of leaves for wreaths and gifts. It’s best to pick leaves for cooking ahead of time and let them dry indoors before using.

Chives. Cold-hardy, perennial chives live for years in a garden. Several clumps make it possible to snip a few leaves for a baked potato anytime, or cut a large bunch for old-fashioned Green Goddess salad dressing.

Cilantro. Best in the fall and winter, growing cilantro allows cooks to snip just a few stems instead of buying a full bunch that often spoils before it’s all used. This annual goes to seed quickly in the spring, but seeds can be harvested to use as coriander. Let a few fall to the ground, and you may get a second crop for free.

Dill. Fresh dill is perfect for sour cream, salad dressings and toppings. Plant a bushy variety such as Fernleaf, which is shorter and leafier than old-fashioned dill.

Fennel. A perennial that reseeds easily, fennel provides access to its anise-flavored leaves throughout the warm months.

Lemon balm. Fresh leaves make great tea or salad garnish and can be used as cut foliage for a wonderful lemon scent indoors. Lemon balm plants are perennial, so they can be enjoyed year to year.

Lemon verbena. Grow it for tea and fragrance

By Lois Chaplin

indoors. This is a tender, woody shrub that needs winter protection.

Mint. The only way to enjoy the fresh flavor of mint is to pick a few fresh stems. There are many types of mint so explore them all. Mint gets weedy in the ground, so use a large pot to keep it contained.

A bowl-shaped container is ideal, providing a lot of surface area for stems to spread.

Parsley. Cold-hardy parsley will always offer a few sprigs when needed. Replant every spring, but the plant can make it through winter. Let it grow tall and bloom the second spring to encourage beneficial insects.

Try any of these herbs and you may pleasantly discover the gateway! n Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author.

Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

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

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Spring/March 2017

Grower Direct

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We also offer over 200 varieties of Fruit and Nut Trees plus Vine and Berry Plants.

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Spring/March 2017

35

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

P

eanuts are popular all over the world, but Southerners love them best. Perhaps that’s because farmers in Southern states grow 99 percent of the U.S. peanut crop and provide 10 percent of the world’s peanuts. Alabama is the country’s No. 3 producer of peanuts, so it’s no surprise they’re the state’s favorite nut (although peanuts are actually legumes). The smell of freshly harvested peanuts fills the air each fall in more than half of the state’s counties, and boiled peanuts are easy to find at gas stations, roadside stands and farmers markets just about anywhere in Alabama.

“There’s nothing as Southern as boiled peanuts,” said Elizabeth Saucer, who grows peanuts and other row crops in Monroe County with her husband Scott. “My favorite part of growing peanuts is when Scott and I go out to the field and the peanuts are just right for boiling — we pull up three or four bushels and boil them right there on the farm.”

Of course, boiling isn’t the only way to enjoy peanuts. Put them in desserts, toppings, main dishes, snack mixes

By Jill Clair Gentry

PEANUT BRITTLE Courtesy of Scott Stokes Start-to-finish: 40 minutes 1/4 stick butter (for greasing pan) 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup corn syrup 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup water 2 tablespoons butter, softened 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups of dry, roasted peanuts

Grease cookie sheet with butter. In a large, heavy saucepan, bring sugar, corn syrup, salt and water to a boil over medium heat, stirring continuously until dissolved. Set candy thermometer in place (or use an infrared thermometer) and continue cooking, stirring continuously, until temperature reaches 300 F (temperature MUST reach 300 F). Remove from heat and immediately stir in softened butter, baking soda, vanilla extract and peanuts. Pour mixture immediately onto greased baking sheet.

With fork, spread mixture evenly. Allow to cool, then break into pieces. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

36

Spring/March 2017

PEANUT BUTTER AND BANANA MUFFINS Courtesy of Elizabeth Saucer Start-to-finish: 20 minutes (10 minutes active) Makes 24 mini muffins or 12 regular muffins 1 cup peanut butter 2 eggs 2 bananas 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 tablespoons honey 3 tablespoons brown sugar 3 tablespoons self-rising flour Nuts (for topping, optional) Dark chocolate chips (for topping, optional)

Heat oven to 400 F. Mix all ingredients until well blended. Pour batter into a greased muffin tin.

Sprinkle on toppings. Bake 9-10 minutes.

guy, and she had seen an article about Scott in her Neighbors magazine. She told me I needed to meet him.”

Before they met, Elizabeth had no farm experience.

“I knew absolutely nothing about agriculture until I married Scott,” she said. “That first year of marriage, we had corn, soybeans, cotton, peanuts and wheat all in the same year, so I spent that year riding the tractor.

We’d get up in the middle of the night to irrigate corn.”

Four years and a baby later, Elizabeth wouldn’t have it any other way. Their daughter, Caroline, turned a year old in January.

“I love life on the farm,” she said. “I went from wanting to be a city girl in a townhouse apartment to loving country life and wanting a bunch of animals and a ranch.” n

and more. Even though her husband spends countless hours harvesting peanuts, Elizabeth said he can’t get enough of them.

“He’ll finish the harvest and say, ‘I don’t ever want to see a peanut again,’ but then before long, he’s asking me where the roasted peanuts are,” Elizabeth said.

“Any kind of desserts or sweets we have in the house, if it doesn’t have peanuts or peanut butter in it already, he’s getting out the peanuts and adding them to it.”

Elizabeth and Scott, who serves on the Monroe County Farmers Federation Board of Directors, have been married since 2013 after meeting in Elizabeth’s grandparents’ Frisco City parts store.

“He buys a lot of his hydraulic hoses and bolts and stuff from them, and he was in the store one day when I happened to be there on my lunch break,” she said.

“Ironically, my other grandmother wanted to find me a GRAPE SALAD WITH ROASTED PEANUTS Courtesy of Elizabeth Saucer Start-to-finish: 15 minutes 2 pounds seedless green grapes 1 pound seedless red grapes 1 cup granulated sugar 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 8 ounces sour cream Brown sugar Southern roasted peanuts, chopped

Separate grapes from vine; wash and dry.

Mix granulated sugar, cream cheese and sour cream. Place grapes in a serving bowl and stir in white mixture.

Sprinkle with brown sugar and top with peanuts. Chill and serve.

Find these recipes in the “Local Flavor” section of AlfaFarmers.org and save them to a virtual recipe box called “My Recipe Box.” Spring/March 2017

37

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

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