Neighbors Magazine, March 2021 by Alabama Farmers Federation

March/Spring 2021 | Volume 46 | Number 3 Debra Davis | Editor Marlee Moore | Associate Editor Laura Unger | Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan | Executive Director Jeff Helms | Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell | President, Stanton Rex Vaughn | Vice President | North, Huntsville Jon Hegeman | Vice President | Central, Anniston George Jeffcoat | Vice President | Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper | Vice President | Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn | Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn | Hillsboro Mark Byrd | Danville John Bert East | Leesburg Tim Whitley | Horton Joe Anders | Northport Phillip Hunter | Birmingham Joe Lambrecht | Wetumpka Jimmy Holliman | Marion Junction Bill Cook | Montgomery Steve Stroud | Goshen Mark Kaiser | Seminole Thomas Adams | Newville Kathy Gordon | Dadeville Brady Peek | Athens Neighbors (ISSN 0162-3974) is published monthly by the Alabama Farmers Federation, 2108 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, Alabama 36116 or (334) 288-3900. For information about Alabama Farmers Federation member benefits, visit the website www.alfafarmers.org. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Alabama, and additional mailing offices. Printed in the U.S.A. POSTMASTER Send address changes to Neighbors P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001 MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com DISCLAIMERS: Advertisements in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement by the magazine or Alabama Farmers Federation. Editorial information from sources outside the Alabama Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Alabama Farmers Federation policies. Publication of information does not imply an endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation.

In This Issue 4 | Carpenetti’s Pizzeria Named Bama’s Best Pizza 6 | Living The Good Life With Alfa Insurance

27 | A Hundred Years Of

Federation Leadership

10 | Farmers Prepare For Political Changes In D.C.

17 | Tuberville, Moore Appointed To Ag Committees 13

On The Cover

Social media sensation Brenda Gantt believes sitting around the dinner table with family and friends benefits everyone. By sharing her skillet skills, she hopes to draw families closer together and nearer to God. Photo By Joey Meredith

www.AlfaFarmers.org

EDQAM A member of American Farm Bureau Federation

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March/Spring 2021

NEIGHBORS

Carpenetti’s

in Moody

Claims Title Of

Bama’s Best Pizza

Frank Carpenetti is a machinist-turned-pizzeria owner whose hand-tossed pies took the title of Bama’s Best Pizza.

By Marlee Moore n the quest for Bama’s Best Pizza, a trio Icrusty of judges discovered saucy, cheesy, pie perfection worthy of the title at Carpenetti’s Pizzeria in Moody. Owner Frank Carpenetti and family earned bragging rights in the contest, in addition to a plaque and cash prize. The Bama’s Best Pizza winner will also be featured on “Simply Southern TV” Season 7. Contest sponsors were the Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) and Alabama Farmers Federation Dairy Division — whose members grow ingredients that make pizza possible. “It’s just awesome,” Carpenetti said. “It’s like winning the Super Bowl. I want to thank all my customers and everyone who voted for me. I was on pins and needles before the announcement.” Carpenetti, whose grandfather Americus Carpenetti came to New York from Italy, grew up on a dairy farm. His

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Carpenetti’s Pizzeria in Moody claimed the title of Bama’s Best Pizza after judges sampled Frank Carpenetti’s classic recipes Jan. 29. Judges were Sweet Grown Alabama’s Ellie Watson, AFVGA President Joe Lambrecht and Simply Southern TV co-host Mary Wilson. From left are Watson; April and Mikey Carpenetti; Brandon Barnett; Beth and Frank Carpenetti; Lambrecht; Frankie Carpenetti; and Wilson.

job as a machinist drew Carpenetti to Alabama, where life pushed him toward pizza. Carpenetti’s Pizzeria will celebrate its 24th anniversary Aug. 7. “We ate pizza all the time growing up, but I never made a pizza for anyone until I opened the restaurant,” Carpenetti said. “I’m here at 6 every

morning, and I lock the door at night. I love it. You gotta love it.” The restaurant’s décor evokes old-world warmth with red checked tablecloths, red and brick walls with painted ivy, and a logo paying homage to “The Sopranos” (complete with a handgun-shaped “r”). alfafarmers.org

Carpenetti keeps busy in the kitchen tossing pizza, swirling sauce and sprinkling toppings. Judges sampled classic pepperoni pizza; spinach Alfredo pizza; a pie topped with sliced Italian sausage, pepperoni, green peppers and onions; and a stuffed pizza jam-packed with 15 toppings. Judges agreed: the chewy crust with crispy bottom was perfectly layered with sauce and cheese — but was just as good plain when the toppings were gone. Deep-fried pepperoni chips, calzones, subs and salads are other menu favorites. Bama’s Best Pizza judge Mary Wilson said she enjoyed meeting Carpenetti and his genuine, humble, welcoming family — including wife Tammy, son Frankie, daughter-in-law April, daughter Beth, grandson Mikey and employee-who’slike-family Brandon Barnett. “It was easy to see

Giovanni’s Italian Restaurant in Sylacauga impressed judges with its Chicago-style deepdish pizza. Owner Christina Cannestra also serves a white chocolate chip bread pudding made with pizza dough and served with cream sauce that had the judges asking for more. The family-owned eatery is named after Cannestra’s grandfather. alfafarmers.org

it meant a lot to him for Carpenetti’s to be in the Flavorful Four,” said Wilson, the co-host of “Simply Southern TV.” “All the pizzas we tried at Carpenetti’s were flat-out fantastic. My favorite was the spinach Alfredo with the pepperoni coming in a close second.” Judge Ellie Watson, the Sweet Grown Alabama agricultural branding program director, seconded Wilson’s comments. “Frank and the entire Carpenetti’s crew knows what it means to make great pizzas,” she said. “This authentic Italian experience paired with Southern hospitality will have you leaving the restaurant with a full stomach and feeling like you are part of the family.” That welcoming experience was a common thread among Flavorful Four restaurants that hosted the slate of judges, which included AFVGA President Joe Lambrecht, Jan. 27 and

29. The other finalists were Giovanni’s Italian Restaurant in Sylacauga, Top-Notch Pizza & BBQ in Vernon, and Valentina’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar in Madison. All finalists received a plaque from contest sponsors. The Flavorful Four were chosen in head-to-head matchups with other eateries on the “Simply Southern TV” Facebook page after nominations were solicited on the Alabama Farmers Federation page. “This was a tough contest to judge because I enjoyed the pizza at all four places,” Wilson said. “Each restaurant owner takes such great pride in serving delicious meals to their customers, the same pride our farmers take in growing healthy, tasty products for those owners to use.” To learn more, like Carpenetti’s Pizzeria on Facebook or visit the restaurant at 740 Park Ave., Moody, AL. Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. TuesdayFriday and 4-8 p.m. Saturday.

Flavorful Finalists

Chris Lytle, and wife Trish, combined Italian food with a Southern staple when they opened Top-Notch Pizza & BBQ in Vernon late in 2019. The couple said the community rallied around them during the coronavirus pandemic, ordering favorites like the smoked chicken pizza with white sauce and the brisket pizza with spicy jalapenos.

Joe Carlucci gets his strength from Valentina, his daughter and the namesake of Valentina’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar in Madison. Carlucci takes special care making pizza dough and piling on toppings. Carlucci’s classic pepperoni pizza was a judge favorite, as was the Valentina, which included chorizo, house-seasoned bacon, cherry tomatoes and caramelized onions. March/Spring 2021

NEIGHBORS

Living The Good Life With Alfa Insurance By Debra Davis

all the other farmers, too. This organization helped give me ost farmers know a good and all the farmers a voice.” investment when they Martin has been a leader see it. Fertile land, quality in the organization for years, seeds, good equipment and serving as Coffee County 1921 2021 genetically superior livestock all Farmers Federation president contribute to future success. from 1967 to 1998. Eighty-six-year-old Philip He served two terms as a state Philip Martin was 37 when bought the first Alfa Martin practiced all those things board member for Alabama Farm Life Insurance policy in 1971. Now 86, Martin said during his career, and his Coffee County Bureau, which eventually became the he didn’t realize the significance of the decision farm near Enterprise was successful. Alabama Farmers Federation. His first for several decades, joking that he’s in no hurry to But an investment made off the farm term was 1969-1971; his second was collect on the policy. generates dividends that are especially 1998-2003. meaningful, he said. Martin retired in 2004 after more “I remember my local agent, (the than 30 years as a dairyman, where he late) Ed Donaldson, told Mr. Ed Lowder he’s in no hurry to collect on the policy. milked cows by hand and later with (Alfa’s first executive vice president) if The purchase of that first life modern machinery. He’s seen a lot he’d let him sell the first new life policy, insurance policy is special to Martin of changes in agriculture and in the he would support the plan to sell life and his wife, Charlene. It represents insurance industry. insurance,” Martin said. “Mr. Donaldson hundreds of fond memories and “Alfa is still a great company today sold that $25,000-policy to me, and experiences they’ve had with Alfa and because of the great agents and I’ve never regretted it. I get a dividend the Alabama Farmers Federation. employees it has and because of the check from it every year.” “I got involved in the Alabama farmers who run the company,” Martin Alfa previously sold life insurance Farmers Federation right after I returned said. “It is still a company that is run by policies for other companies but began home from college,” said Martin, who people who live in our communities, selling its own life policies in 1971. lives a quarter mile from his childhood who worship and raise their families in Martin’s policy, Number L 001, is among home south of Enterprise. “It wasn’t Alabama. That makes Alfa special.” 299,115 policies issued by Alfa Life Co., long before folks on the county board The Martins still live on their farm on totaling nearly $30.8 billion in force. of directors asked me to join. I knew it the outskirts of Enterprise with their son, Martin was 37 on Dec. 2, 1971, when was an organization with a strong group Edwin. Their nephew raises beef cattle he bought the Alfa life policy. He said of dairymen who were politically active. in the fields near their home. Daughter he didn’t realize the significance of the They could get things done, not to Anne Marie Bliss and her husband decision for several decades, joking that mention the organization represented live in Texas with the Martins’ four grandchildren. Alfa President Jimmy Parnell said when he joined the Federation as a young man, it was men like Martin who encouraged him to take a leadership role. “For 100 years, the Alabama Farmers Federation has been led by hardworking men and women committed to improving life for people in their communities,” Parnell said. “Philip Martin embodies our core values of faith, family, community and integrity. As we celebrate our centennial and Alfa’s 75th anniversary, it’s only fitting that our first life insurance policy be held by a farmer like Mr. Martin.” For information about Alfa life insurance or to find a local agent, visit Philip and Charlene Martin have been married 62 years and have been actively involved in the Alabama AlfaInsurance.com. Farmers Federation nearly seven decades.

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Champions Of Service:

Alfa Insurance Covers All The Bases By Brooke Foster

community and integrity. “It’s always rewarding to hear that hen it comes to customer service, one of our agents has truly taken the Alabama High School Athletic additional step in providing exceptional Association (AHSAA) Assistant Director customer service to our members,” Denise Ainsworth knows Alfa Insurance Allen said. “It’s about providing more covers all the bases. than just insurance. It’s about being She joined Alfa as a young educator there every step of the way and taking advantage of the company’s making sure that we not only provide teacher discounts. Ainsworth has built exceptional service but also develop a on that relationship through AHSAA, relationship with our customers. Ryan is which Alfa proudly supports as a one of many agents who takes it to the corporate sponsor. Alfa’s investment next level when it comes to customer funds programs that grow, guide and service. For that, we are proud to have instill leadership in students across the him on our team.” state. Several years ago, the Ainsworths “Alfa not only cares about were glued to the TV as high school athletics, but it tornadoes and damaging also care about the lessons winds barreled toward taught through athletics,” their Wetumpka home. she said. “They are Stubblefield was ALFA INSURANCE® invested in students and simultaneously watching their futures.” the news and noticed a storm Over the years, Ainsworth and headed the Ainsworths’ way her husband, Ralph, have curated around 11 p.m. He reached for a deep-seated relationship with his phone, scrolled to Ainsworth’s Alfa Agent Ryan Stubblefield. The name and made sure the couple was relationship has paid dividends — and weather-aware. shows how Alfa cares for its customers. “Having worked at Alfa for more than Alfa District Manager Steve Allen 10 years, I’ve learned that one thing our said going the extra mile is essential to customers truly appreciate is the great Alfa — and its core values of faith, family, service Alfa provides,” Stubblefield said.

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Alfa Agent Ryan Stubblefield visited with longtime Alfa customer Denise Ainsworth after storms rolled through the River Region last spring. Ainsworth also is the assistant director for the Alabama High School Athletic Association.

“If the situation was reversed, I know I’d want to have an agent I could trust no matter what storms life throws our way.” Scoring big, beating the competition and teamwork. It’s all a part of the process to becoming a champion — on the field or at Alfa, he added. Alfa’s goal is to be champions of service to customers and the community, Allen said. Ainsworth knows what it takes to be a champion. From coaching her own teams to state championship titles, leading athletic programs at a local River Region school, and promoting one of the state’s interscholastic athletic programs within public, private and parochial institutions, she said knowing their insurance agent was thinking about them in the middle of a storm confirmed her family’s faith in Alfa. “Since then, I’ve known we can always count on Ryan and Alfa to watch out for us. We trust the values Alfa Insurance operates on,” she said. Ask your local Alfa agent about auto insurance discounts for teachers. March/Spring 2021

NEIGHBORS

Farmers Prepare For Changes In National Politics

Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, left, with U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., at the 2020 Young Farmers Conference in Mobile.

By Jimmy Parnell, President Alabama Farmers Federation hange is the one thing we can C count on. Farmers know this better than most.

Through natural disasters, new technologies or just the changing of seasons, one thing remains constant: Alabama Farmers Federation members are still farming. In 2021, change is certain — especially in Washington, D.C. President Joe Biden moved swiftly to name new members of his cabinet. His choice for Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack of Iowa, is a familiar face. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s new chief is a known quantity, having led the agency eight years during the Obama Administration. There will be changes at USDA, but I believe Secretary Vilsack is someone we can work with to advance the interests of Alabama farmers. Congress also will look different from an Alabama and agricultural perspective. With Democrat candidates sweeping the runoff elections in Georgia for two U.S. Senate seats, the Democratic party now controls both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives, albeit by the narrowest of margins. This is quite a blow to Alabama as Sen. Richard Shelby will no longer chair the powerful

NEIGHBORS

March/Spring 2021

Appropriations Committee. Also in the Senate, longtime farm advocate Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kan., retired, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., replaces him as chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition & Forestry. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., will serve as the highest-ranking Republican on the committee. Leadership of the House Committee on Agriculture also changed. Rep. David Scott, R-Ga., assumed the gavel, and Rep. Glen “G.T.” Thomson, R-Pa., is the new ranking Republican member. Alabama welcomes three new members to its Congressional delegation. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., has been embraced by Federation members and has put in the work to build relationships and learn about their policy needs. Sen. Tuberville was appointed to the Senate Committee on Agriculture and will be a loyal supporter of Alabama farmers. He is building a strong team of staffers led by Chief of Staff Stephen Boyd, a veteran of Alabama politics. Sen. Tuberville also brought on Mike Albares as a senior policy advisor for agriculture. Albares is former chief of staff to former Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery. Boyd and Albares are both Alabama natives and know their way around Capitol Hill.

In the U.S. House of Representatives, Alabama voters elected two new faces to fill open seats of retiring advocates for agriculture. Rep. Jerry Carl, R-Mobile, will take over for Rep. Bradley Byrne, R-Mobile, in District 1. Rep. Carl has retained a number of employees from Rep. Byrne’s team. We’re pleased to continue working with these great staffers, including Chief of Staff Chad Carlough. Rep. Carl will serve on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Committee on Natural Resources. Rep. Barry Moore, R-Enterprise, and will be serving Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District following Rep. Roby’s retirement. He will serve on the House Committee on Agriculture and the Veteran Affairs Committee. Rep. Moore has built a team with a strong understanding and appreciation for agriculture. Chief of Staff Shana Teehan brings a wealth of political experience, and Rep. Moore’s district director, Bill Harris, knows our organization well. Retired Federation employee Louis Coles will serve as an agricultural advisor to Rep. Moore. While we anticipate a shift in direction for federal policies, I am optimistic about agriculture’s future. With the COVID-19 vaccine becoming more available, I look forward to getting our economy back on track. We’re hopeful commodity prices will continue an upward swing due, in large part, to increased exports. However, we must remain vigilant and push back against attempts of government overreach we anticipate from this administration. We will work to help Congress and the Biden Administration to ensure farmers are seen as part the solution rather than the problem. If the administration is willing to work with agriculture to tackle the challenges of feeding a growing population — in a manner that is economically sustainable — I am confident we can meet any challenge head on. Yes, change is constant, but so is the strength, persistence and optimism of the American farmer. alfafarmers.org

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Against all odds, Marion County farmer Carl Lucas helped plant and harvest 600 acres of soybeans in 2020 after recovering from a life-threatening farm accident in November 2019. Farm worker Derek Palmer, background, was one of three people with Lucas the day of the accident.

By Mary Wilson

Marion County Farmer Recovers From Life-Threatening Farm Accident

fter farming all his life, 74-year-old A Carl Lucas of Marion County didn’t expect to celebrate a lot of firsts in 2020. But he and his family clearly remember his first cup of coffee, his first steps, his first day back in overalls and his first day back in the seat of a tractor last year. All seemingly mundane tasks, these were among countless miraculous milestones following Lucas’s life-altering farm accident. It was Nov. 26, 2019. After harvesting soybeans, Lucas went to help three friends — brothers Johnny and Danny Ray and 17-year-old farm worker Derek Palmer — bag corn.

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“I walked around to the back of the tractor, and the PTO on the auger grabbed my shirt and pulled me in it,” Lucas said. “I went around and around the drive shaft. I don’t know how many times I went around until it threw me off. It was just an accident. I’d used that auger for 15 years on the farm and never had any problems before.” Lucas’ friends jumped into action. Johnny Ray was well trained in first aid as a sergeant in the National Guard. “When I got to him, I thought he was

dead,” Johnny said. “But he was fully conscious. He looked up at me and said ‘I knew better than this.’” Among his injuries, Lucas’ left arm was severed. Ray worked quickly, fashioning a tourniquet out of a T-shirt with Derek’s help. Danny called 911 and first responders were there in minutes. “It was a pretty traumatic call,” said Capt. Eric Lynch of Hamilton Fire and Rescue. “It’s not every day you’re called March/Spring 2021

NEIGHBORS

Carl Lucas stopped by Hamilton Fire and Rescue along with his daughter, Amanda Winsett, to thank the first responders who helped save his life. Assistant Chief Matt McCracken surprised Lucas by presenting him with a challenge coin, historically presented to someone who has overcome a great challenge. Also pictured are Capt. Eric Lynch, far right, who responded to Lucas’ accident, and Firefighter Johnathan Pace, second from right.

to an amputation of an arm. Mr. Ray with his military training is really the one who saved Mr. Lucas’ life that day. I’m just glad he was there.” The accident happened less than a mile from a landing strip. Lucas was loaded into a helicopter and on his way to UAB Hospital within 18 minutes. As medical personnel assessed his condition, the list of injuries lengthened. An amputated arm. Severed artery behind his left knee. Broken tibia, fibula and right ankle. Fractured vertebrae and ribs. Blood clot in an artery in his neck. “The doctors told my family I wouldn’t live to see daylight,” an emotional Lucas recalled. “But the Lord

showed them. If it hadn’t been for the Lord, I wouldn’t be here.” Lucas underwent 11 surgeries and spent 34 days at UAB Hospital. He then spent time in a rehabilitation facility closer to Hamilton where he gained enough strength to walk again. On March 13, 2020, after 108 days, Lucas was back home. He continued therapy visits through October. A farmer through and through, Lucas was itching to get back in a tractor. Against all odds, Lucas helped plant and harvest over 600 acres of soybeans during 2020. “I told them that’s better than therapy — being in a tractor,” Lucas said. “I was

Safe Auger Operation Tips From National Ag Safety Database q Observe work area restrictions. q Keep all safety shields and devices in place. q Make certain everyone is clear before operating or moving the machine. q Keep hands, feet, hair and clothing away from moving parts. q Shut off and lock out power to adjust, service or clean the equipment. 14

NEIGHBORS

March/Spring 2021

Before the accident, Lucas always wore overalls. It was a memorable moment when he was finally able to pull on a pair again following the accident.

just so happy driving a tractor instead of sitting around watching everybody else do everything. I wanted to help.” Others in the community weren’t surprised to see Lucas back on the farm, but they were amazed at his quick recovery. “Carl didn’t give up — he didn’t give up the second day after it happened,” Johnny said. “We knew he was going to make it back. We just didn’t know how much he’d be able to do. But he’s doing everything. He’s cut hay. He’s been in the combine. It takes him more effort to get in a tractor, but he’s adjusted.” Along with getting back to farm work, Lucas said he’s confident he survived so he could share the good news of a loving Lord. “I can’t get around as good as I used to, but I can still get around, and that’s the Lord’s doing,” he said. “He made it so I could get around and show people about this. When people say it’s amazing to see me out and about, I tell them, it’s the good Lord who did it, not me.” alfafarmers.org

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Tuberville, Moore Appointed To Ag Committees

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore, R-Enterprise, was chosen to serve on the House Ag Committee, where he will be a voice on Capitol Hill for farmers like Heath Wesley of Pike County, left.

By Jeff Helms he Alabama Farmers Federation T commended the appointment of U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., and U.S.

Rep. Barry Moore, R-Enterprise, to their respective Congressional agriculture committees. Federation President Jimmy Parnell thanked the freshmen lawmakers for seeking an opportunity to represent Alabama farmers in Congress. “On the campaign trail, Sen. Tuberville met with farmers in their fields and pastures,” Parnell said. “He looked them in the eye and said, ‘I want to be your champion in D.C.’ We are proud to have been among Sen. Tuberville’s early supporters and are confident he will serve our members and the state well in the Senate.” Parnell said Moore brings firsthand farm experience to the House Agriculture Committee. “Having grown up on a family farm in Coffee County, Congressman Moore has a strong appreciation for the job Alabama farmers do every day,” Parnell said. “He earned a degree in agricultural

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science from Auburn University and was a friend of farmers while serving in the Alabama Legislature. We are confident Congressman Moore will be an advocate for Alabama agriculture and the 2nd Congressional District as a member of the Ag Committee.” Agriculture in the 2nd Congressional District accounts for 96,295 jobs and $3.7 billion in annual wages, according to FeedingtheEconomy.com. The website puts Alabama’s total farm- and food-related employment at 638,123 jobs with wages of $25.65 billion annually. “From soybeans to catfish and poultry to peanuts, Alabama is home to some of the most productive and innovative farmers, producers and foresters our country has to offer,” Tuberville said. “It is an honor to represent Alabama agriculture and our rural communities on the Senate Agriculture Committee. Now more than ever, our farmers, foresters and producers need certainty, stability and for our economy to reopen so they can continue to feed, clothe and fuel America. Our

rural communities in Alabama need broadband connectivity to ensure our rural health centers, schools, businesses and family farms can stay competitive and connected in today’s world. “As we look toward the next Farm Bill, the coming years will be critical to lay the foundation for key initiatives including rural development and broadband, trade and forestry programs to benefit Alabama’s farmers both today and in the future,” Tuberville added. “I am thankful to have a seat at the table on a committee that is so important to folks back home, and Alabama’s rural communities can rest assured I’ll be a strong voice for them in Washington.” Tuberville also was named to the Senate Armed Services; Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP); and Veterans’ Affairs committees. Moore, who also was selected to serve on the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, said he’s looking forward to serving on committees whose actions will impact farmers and military families of the district. “I’m excited and eager to serve on these two committees to guarantee that the voices of Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District will be heard in Washington,” Moore said. “Growing up on a farm, I not only learned the value of hard work but the great sacrifices our farmers make to put food on our tables and clothes on our backs. Agriculture plays a critical role in Alabama, and I’m looking forward to serving as a voice for our agricultural producers on the House Agriculture Committee. “As a veteran, I understand the severity of ensuring that every American who served this great country in our military receives the crucial benefits and services they deserve,” continued Moore, who served in the Army National Guard. “After they selflessly fought to defend our country, I vow to fight for their needs and to make sure they receive quality care. Let’s get to work.” The Federation’s political action committee, FarmPAC, endorsed Tuberville and Moore in the November general election. March/Spring 2021

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Farmers Elect Commodity Leaders, Receive Industry Updates Federation commodity divisions highlighted during the event were bee and honey; beef; catfish; cotton; dairy; equine; forestry; greenhouse, nursery and sod; hay and forage crops; pork; poultry; sheep and goat; soybean; wheat and feed grain; and wildlife. Charlie Thompson of Lauderdale County serves on the State Sheep & Goat Committee. He’s attended Federation meetings since the mid-‘80s and said commodity groups are the lifeblood of the organization. “You get to meet other like-minded producers from all across the state, and you get updates on the national and global scene from different Commodity speakers,” said Thompson, Organization Farmers, Extension leaders and industry professionals met in Montgomery Feb. 1-3. From who farms in Lexington. left are State Sheep & Goat Committee member Charlie Thompson of Lauderdale County, Meeting “You hear new information Alabama Extension Assistant Director of County Office Operations Amelia Mitchell, Alfa from universities firsthand Endowed Scholar at Auburn University Dr. Mykel Taylor and Federation commodity director and can meet researchers Brady Ragland. face to face and ask pertinent questions about your industry. I By Marlee Moore mission stayed the same — help farmers appreciate the Federation being a improve bottom lines and chart the group that ties farmers together.” course for staff work in 2021. Committee members who served eaders representing 16 different “It’s important for us to have a strong the maximum nine years were honored commodities met in Montgomery commodity-based organization,” said during the meeting. They are: Feb. 1-3 to elect committee members Federation President Jimmy Parnell. and receive industry updates. “It’s equally important to have strong Beef - Bill Lipscomb, Autauga County The Alabama Farmers Federation committees to help direct our staff and Catfish - Sid Nelson, Sumter County Commodity Organization Meeting make sure we’re working on the right Equine - Gean Harris, Cleburne looked different with social distancing, projects to address farmers’ needs.” County; Scott Noles, Randolph masks and fist bumps, but the meeting’s During daily lunch remarks, County Parnell gave updates on the Alabama Forestry - John Farrow, Tallapoosa Farm Center; thanked farmers for County; Jake Harper, Wilcox contributions to FarmPAC; and County highlighted the organization’s Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod - Bob centennial year celebrations, which Moore, Macon County; Dennis continue throughout 2021. Wiley, Lauderdale County Dr. Gary Lemme was presented the Hay & Forage - Johnny Lee, Henry Federation’s Cultivator Award during County the meeting. Lemme will retire in April Pork - Luther Bishop, Colbert County as director of the Alabama Cooperative Poultry - Joe Murphy, Pike County Extension System. The Cultivator Award Sheep & Goat - Andrew Williams, recognizes individuals who nurture Marengo County relationships that benefit farmers and Soybean - Annie Dee, Pickens rural families. County Special guests included Dr. Mykel Wheat & Feed Grain - Mike Dee, Taylor, the Alfa Endowed Eminent Pickens County Scholar at Auburn University, in addition to Amelia Mitchell and Callie Nelson, Visit AlfaFarmers.org for a list of Masks and social distancing were common sights Extension’s new assistant directors for newly elected and reelected commodity at the Federation’s Commodity Organization county office operations. committee members. Meeting in Montgomery Feb. 1-3.

20 21

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PHOTOS BY JOEY MEREDITH

Filled with joy and Southern expressions, Brenda Gantt spreads the gospel and good recipes to nearly 2 million social media followers with her videos filmed in her Covington County kitchen.

Brenda Gantt:

Cooking That’s Good For The Soul By Debra Davis be good y’all.” Idrawlt’s gonna Brenda Gantt’s Southern describes more than just her

“

down-home cooking. It’s her outlook on life. The Andalusia grandmother retired from teaching 23 years ago and became famous after she posted a Facebook video on how to make homemade biscuits. That was April 22, 2020. In two weeks, the video had more than 1 million views and countless fans who were hungry for more. Gantt’s newfound fame was accidental. It happened after younger church members repeatedly asked the 74-year-old to share her skillet skills with their wives. “One Sunday, I decided to do a little video on making biscuits and get them off my back,” Gantt said. “I didn’t even show my face on the video. I just held my phone up over the bowl to show how I mixed the grease with flour and 20

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March/Spring 2021

added buttermilk.” Requests kept coming. The Covid lockdown created a need for home-cooked meals and marked a return to simple, homestyle recipes, Gantt said. “People on Facebook would ask me things like, ‘Can you show me how to cut up a chicken?’ or ‘Can you show me how to cook rice that’s not sticky?’ and ‘Can you teach me how to cook butterbeans?’ It beat all I’d ever seen,” she said. “Bless their heart, these people really can’t cook even simple things I always took for granted.” Before long, Gantt’s son-in-law, Walt Merrell, helped transition her personal Facebook page into Cooking With Brenda Gantt, which now boasts over 1.8 million followers. Her videos often begin with a big smile and her familiar phrase “Good morning, Facebook fans!” She shares her kitchen adventures covering everything from ham dumplings and fried quail to stories about her big,

white bulldog named Biscuit. Gantt’s well-known antique chopping block is center stage when her famous biscuits are on the menu, as is the 1970 Chef Boyardee can she has used to cut biscuits for over 50 years. Each video generates thousands of likes, comments and shares as well as attention from national celebrities. The unassuming internet sensation even landed an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show. She launched a Cooking With Brenda Gantt Instagram page in September, and her fans continue to grow. “People love Brenda Gantt because she’s real,” said Alabama Farmers Federation Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Earwood. “She’s like watching your mama or grandmama cook. It seems so effortless when she does it, but there’s definitely a lot of skill in those hands. Mrs. Brenda’s outlook on life, along with the joy she shares with others, makes her an Alabama and alfafarmers.org

she was a mother, schoolteacher, ran a successful antique business, and a bed and breakfast. The couple also were active members at Bethany Baptist Church in Andalusia where they cooked the Wednesday supper for church members for nine years, routinely preparing 200 meals. When George died, Brenda lost more than her soulmate. She still enjoyed her two children and their spouses, and her five grandchildren, but something was missing. “I remember thinking, ‘Lord, what is my purpose?’ and asking Him to show me what He wanted me to do with my life,” Gantt said. “As I began to make videos, I also told people about Jesus and how to find real joy in their life. God lets me tell others about Him through my cooking videos.”

Above: Brenda Gantt loves cooking, especially for her family. Her granddaughter, Banks Merrell, frequently helps her in the kitchen. Right: a flourfilled bowl and a 50-year-old tin can used to cut dough waits for Gantt’s next batch of biscuits.

national treasure. Her love for cooking is a precious blessing that we all have the opportunity to experience.” Gantt’s cooking videos resonate with viewers throughout the country, but they break a lot of rules set by mainstream social media gurus. There’s no printed version of her recipes. The videos are sometimes long, and Gantt rarely measures anything — including ingredients for her beloved biscuits. But she encourages viewers to experiment and do the best they can with what they have. A devout Christian, Gantt adds faith into everything she cooks. She said Facebook fame came when she was looking for a purpose. Her husband, George Patton Gantt, died in September 2018. The couple had celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary a month before. George suffered from Alzheimer’s, and in his final years, Brenda was his caregiver. Before that, alfafarmers.org

Gantt said people in other parts of the country aren’t as fortunate as most Alabamians. Many are actually stuck in their houses and can’t go anywhere, she said, adding that a lot of them are hungry for companionship. “If I don’t have a video every day, they want to know what happened to me,” Gantt said. “I guess it’s their entertainment or something. But I’m happy if I can bring some happiness into their lives.” Gantt said her recipe for a joy-filled life comes through salvation.

“Most people experience happiness, at least periodically, different times in their life,” she said. “But joy and happiness are two totally different things. Happiness comes and goes. When you have joy — that’s something within your spirit and soul. It comes only from Christ, and it never leaves. Even when bad things happen, you have an inner joy that takes over, and you know Christ is in control. It is in His plan.” That’s a big part of Gantt’s mission. “My goal is to teach people how to cook and let them find the Lord,” she said. “ You can’t push cooking or Jesus on somebody. I don’t want to be viewed as a fanatic. I have to be gentle in what I say and show how God can give you that inner joy.” Gantt’s artistic talents extend beyond the kitchen. Paintings by her of an old homeplace hang on the wall of her home. There’s a cabinet filled with cast iron cookware next to the kitchen door. A collection of antique rolling pins is stashed in the corner, while chicken figurines fill the ledge of a giant picture window at her kitchen sink that overlooks her backyard. A pitcher of vintage ice picks adorns the fireplace. She calls each item a treasure because of the memories they hold. She cooks breakfast every morning for her guests at The Coddle House, the bed and breakfast she owns across the road from her home in rural Covington County. When she’s not making videos, her life remains fairly normal, despite her celebrity status. “I still go have lunch with my friends every Tuesday at a local restaurant, and I take line dancing twice a week,” she said. “I love to dig in the dirt and work in my yard, and I love my family. Sometimes when I go out of town, people recognize me and ask if they can take a picture with me, and that’s still sort of funny. But I love people, and I believe all people have good in them. It’s like God’s love for us. He might not love the things we do sometimes, but He always loves us.” Find Cooking With Brenda Gantt on Facebook and Instagram and The Cottle House Bed and Breakfast on Facebook. March/Spring 2021

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Alabama Farmers Engage In AFBF Virtual Convention

Federation state board member Thomas Adams of Henry County was among Alabama’s delegates who met in Montgomery Jan. 14 for the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Virtual Convention.

By Marlee Moore labama farmers traded convention A seating for computer screens Jan. 10-14 while participating in American

Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) Virtual Convention. John Bert East of Cherokee County was one of 18 delegates representing the Alabama Farmers Federation during AFBF’s Virtual Business Session. Farmers from all 50 states and Puerto Rico reviewed and voted on policy recommendations. “It’s totally different but understandable in the world we live in today,” said East, referring to safety measures implemented to curb the coronavirus pandemic. “It went well; the content was good. Things moved along slower, but that’s OK. Overall, it was a great experience.” East, who represents District 3 on the state board, gathered safely in Montgomery with fellow board members for the session. The small group used computer tablets to submit votes during the 102nd convention — a sharp contrast to Bert’s first AFBF convention in Nashville three years ago, where thousands of farmers packed the convention space. The annual business session helps chart the path of the farmer-led organization. “It’s a unified voice for agriculture

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when people from different states come together and have a consensus about how they want to go forward with their mission,” said East, a row crop and cattle farmer from Leesburg. Earlier in the convention, State Women’s Leadership Committee members met in Montgomery to participate in virtual sessions. They elected Indiana’s Isabella Chism to lead AFBF’s female-focused division. Alabama young farmers competed on the national stage as well. Ben and Bethany Johnson of Randolph County made Top 10 in the Achievement Award contest. Emmanuel Bankston of Henry County and Jerry Allen Newby of Limestone County participated in the Excellence in Agriculture and Discussion Meet contests, respectively. The state’s largest farm organization also received the New Horizon Award, which honors innovative new programming, for its Alfa Awards. The Alfa Awards debuted in 2019 to recognize researchers and Extension professionals whose work tangibly benefits farmers. The Federation’s Brian Hardin said these awards raise the bar for continued growth in practical agricultural research. His Governmental & Agricultural Programs Department coordinates the awards. “As advocates for our members, part of our mission is to work with

researchers and Extension staff to be responsive to the needs of Alabama’s farmers,” Hardin said. “It’s an honor to be recognized nationally for these efforts.” Additionally, Alabama received Awards of Excellence for outstanding achievements in all four program areas: Membership Value; Advocacy; Leadership & Business Development; and Engagement & Outreach. AFBF Virtual Convention programming, focused on a Stronger Together theme, was free and included educational sessions. General sessions featured U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue, TV personality Mike Rowe, Land O’ Lakes CEO Beth Ford and Navy SEAL Commander Rorke Denver. During his opening session address, AFBF President Zippy Duvall of Georgia highlighted challenges and successes over the past year, including the #StillFarming campaign, regulatory victories, trade agreements and food supply chain protection efforts. “It’s still our time,” Duvall said. “And we will make the most of it by being a strong, united voice for all of agriculture. No other organization is as well-positioned to make a difference. We proved it repeatedly in 2020, and we are going to do it again in 2021.” The Alabama Farmers Federation is a member of the American Farm Bureau Federation and represents 350,000 member families.

John Bert East of Cherokee County serves District 3 on the state board and took part in AFBF’s Virtual Business Session. alfafarmers.org

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March/Spring 2021

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Sam Bristow of Henry County is overcoming a peanut allergy thanks to groundbreaking research developed in Birmingham. The treatment consists of digesting peanut butter in small dosages until the body becomes immune to peanut products.

Peanut Allergy Treatment Provides Parents Hope By Abby Himburg enry County parents Caleb and H Freda Bristow were heartbroken, yet determined, after finding their youngest

son Sam, suffered from a peanut allergy. For many parents this diagnosis can be frustrating and inconvenient, but for the Bristow family it was problematic. Caleb grew up on a peanut farm, manages a peanut buying point and sells peanut trailers. Peanuts are an essential part of his everyday life. “I even had people joke with me and say ‘oh wouldn’t it be funny if your kid had a peanut allergy,’” Caleb said. About a year ago, when Sam was around 6 months old, Caleb and Freda started introducing Sam to peanut products. He had a few minor reactions, but Caleb wasn’t convinced his child could be allergic to peanuts. Having already been diagnosed with some food allergies, and after a trip to a pediatric allergist, the Bristows nightmare was confirmed. “I literally work for peanuts and now I have a kid who is allergic to peanuts,” Caleb recalled. Fortunately the Bristows knew that living with the allergy wasn’t the only option. Caleb, the former executive director of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association, knew a doctor in Birmingham who worked on a groundbreaking treatment to lessen the peanut allergy response in some alfafarmers.org

patients. Dr. Joseph LaRussa is an allergy and immunology specialist in Birmingham. With 22 years of pediatric allergy experience and having a child with peanut and tree nut allergies, LaRussa knows what it’s like to deal with food allergies. In 2015, a group of researchers from London and the U.S. released a groundbreaking study now known as the Learning Early about Peanut Allergy (LEAP) study. The study found the introduction of peanuts into an infant’s diet, prior to 11-months old, reduced the prevalence of peanut allergies by approximately 70-80 % (peanutallergyfacts.org). That motivated LaRussa to conduct further research on how to help patients with peanut allergy. LaRussa discovered children with a peanut allergy can be desensitized to the legume. He developed a treatment plan consisting of digesting peanut butter in small dosages until the body becomes immune to peanut products. The dosage is based off tests performed by LaRussa. Freda remembers an emotional moment during their first appointment. LaRussa said, “We want to dictate food allergies, not food allergies dictate the way we live.” “I almost cried… that was just like a sigh of relief.,” Freda said. “We can help Sam with this, so he doesn’t have to live in fear.”

Sam is far enough along in his treatments the Bristow family no longer has to worry about having peanut products in the house. “After 16 weeks, we have finally worked our way up to half a teaspoon of peanut butter,” said Caleb. “By springtime, Sam should be able to enjoy a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.” While this immunotherapy is not FDA approved, it has proven to be a safe and viable option for children and adults trying to overcome peanut allergies. For more information, contact Dr. LaRussa’s office at (205) 933-5599. For more information on how to safely introduce peanuts to your infant to help prevent peanut allergies, visit PreventPeanutAllergies.org. Alabama peanut farmers care deeply about their product and the consumers who are affected by it. Since 2001, through the National Peanut Board, and peanut farmers across the nation have earmarked more than $32 million of their own dollars into research and education about food and peanut allergies. The information presented in this article is for educational purposes only. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional treatment and advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. March/Spring 2021

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March/Spring 2021

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A L A BA MA F A RM BUR E AU

ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION

1921

2021

Grassroots Leaders Guide Federation Growth For A Century

By Marlee Moore n its first century, the Alabama Farmers Ipresidents Federation was guided by 10 farmer— elected by their fellow farmers to serve rural Alabama. Leaders of the group (originally named Alabama Farm Bureau) have diverse backgrounds, educational experiences and management styles. Despite their differences, their missions were unified — improve, organize and advance life for Alabamians.

Charles Warren Rittenour

1921-1923

He was born in Ohio, but Charles Warren Rittenour left his mark on the Yellowhammer State as Alabama Farm Bureau’s first president. Opportunities for agricultural growth attracted Rittenour to Montgomery County, but before moving south in 1918, the 37-yearold Rittenour dabbled in a burgeoning farm Rittenour organization while working on his father’s corn, wheat, alfalfa hay and horse farm. Once in Alabama, the Ohio Wesleyan University graduate bought 4,200 acres where he farmed corn, cotton, cattle and hay. He was president of Alabama’s first county-wide farm organization and represented Montgomery County when Alabama Farm Bureau formed in 1921. A temporary slate of officers was organized, with Rittenour as president. He was officially elected later that year and was called “a man of unusual alfafarmers.org

business and executive ability.” In 1923, Rittenour was president of affiliated southern region states and became president of the first Hay Marketing Association. He later served on the Farm Bureau state board and executive committee. Rittenour was secretary-treasurer when he died in 1946.

Edward Asbury O’Neal III

1923-1931

Edward Asbury O’Neal III plowed the way for reform during some of the most tumultuous times in modern agriculture. Before serving as American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) president from 1931-1947, Lauderdale County’s O’Neal made waves as an innovative livestock and row-crop farmer. In 1923, he was elected president of Alabama Farm Bureau at age 48. O’Neal is credited with O’Neal incorporating many farm programs, including farm price supports, into federal law. Contemporaries recognized him as America’s No. 1 leader in agriculture. He spoke on many occasions to the White House Conference on Rural Education, the U.S. Senate Finance Committee and the Chamber of Commerce Convention in New York. O’Neal was keenly aware of the importance of elected officials, government and agricultural legislation. As AFBF president, he was a close agricultural adviser to U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt. On the farm, O’Neal embarked on a soil-building program that involved

livestock, legumes and lime phosphate. He produced then-unbelievable yields of 40 bushels of wheat, 75 bushels of corn and a bale of cotton per acre. He began growing alfalfa in 1913 and raised livestock on his 500-acre farm near Florence. O’Neal was the first Lauderdale County Farm Bureau president and was state vice president before being elected state president in 1923. Under his leadership, the organization grew rapidly in legislative, marketing and business services. He graduated from Washington & Lee University, where he studied law, in 1898 and received an honorary Doctor of Agriculture from Auburn University in 1932. He died in 1958.

Robert Farnham Croom

1931

Robert Farnham Croom led the Alabama Farm Bureau briefly — just three months — but contemporaries applauded his commitment to serving when the organization needed him. Conecuh County’s Croom was vice president when President Edward Asbury O’Neal III was tapped to lead Croom the national organization in spring 1931. The state executive committee chose Croom to finish O’Neal’s term, which ended at the state convention in July. The 43-year-old Croom raised livestock, horses and cotton. He grew peaches and strawberries and shipped his fruit to Chicago via refrigerated railcars. Croom was also president of the March/Spring 2021

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First National Bank of Evergreen. When the bank folded due to the Great Depression, Croom moved to Washington to work for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He retired in Evergreen and died in 1966.

John Littleton Edwards

1931-1938

John Littleton “Litt” Edwards wore many caps. He was a magistrate, a state legislator, farmed in Dallas County and served on the county board of education. Most notably, he was the fourth president of Edwards the Alabama Farm Bureau. Edwards was a charter member and president of the Dallas County group before being elected to lead the state organization from 1931-1938. He was elected at age 70. He also served on Alabama’s Agricultural Adjustment Administration Committee, was president of the Alabama Cotton Growers Co-op and volunteered on the State Rural Electrification Committee. Edwards attended Howard College in Marion from 1878-79 before beginning to farm. He farmed cotton, hogs, cattle, chickens and sugar cane. He died in 1946.

William Howard Gray

1938-1940

William Howard Gray was four years removed from earning his Alabama Polytechnic Institute (API) diploma when he was elected Alabama Farm Bureau president in 1938. The 29-year-old embarked on Gray a two-year term that brought healing and ended a period of strife and division within the organization. 28

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Gray was born in Madison County’s New Market in 1909 and shouldered farm responsibility at age 11 after his father died. He was API’s 1934 senior class president before becoming a county Extension agent in DeKalb County, followed by stints in Mobile and Pickens counties. He resigned as president in 1940, citing farm conditions that suffered during his time in office. When elected president, he milked 20 cows, grew 100 bales of cotton annually and raised 200 hogs, in addition to serving on the Atlanta Federal Reserve Bank board in Birmingham. He died in 1943. Noteworthy pallbearers were former Gov. Frank Dixon, Alabama Extension Director L.N. Duncan, American Farm Bureau Federation President Edward O’Neal III and U.S. Rep. John Sparkman.

Walter Leon Randolph

1940-1961

Walter Leon Randolph holds the title of longest-serving president of what is now the Alabama Farmers Federation — 21 years. He was elected in 1940 at age 34 and served until 1961, when he chose Randolph not to seek reelection due to illness. He’s the only president to have formerly served as staff — moving from information director to director of organization to executive secretary. While state president, growth in membership and service to farmers boomed. Alfa Insurance was founded as Alabama Mutual Fire Insurance in 1946, and current state headquarters were built on South Boulevard in Montgomery. Far-reaching state legislative programs enacted during his leadership included sales tax exemptions on production items, farm tractor gas tax rebates, earmarking of income tax for education, and financial support for research and Extension. He was American Farm Bureau Federation vice

president from 1953-1969. Randolph was Alabama Polytechnic Institute valedictorian in 1925 before working with Extension and Progressive Farmer magazine. He later worked in Washington as assistant director of the Agricultural Adjustment Administration’s southern region and helped write national farm legislation. That legislation included the Bankhead Cotton Control Act of 1934, the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1935, the Bankhead Price Support Act for basic commodities, and the Steagall Price Support Act for non-basic commodities, in addition to peanut marketing quotas. Before his election, he farmed in Dallas and Fayette counties. He served as a member of the Farm Credit Board of New Orleans and was an original member of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Policy Committee. Randolph died in 1974.

James DeFord “J.D.” Hays 1961-1978 Enthusiasm and optimism were trademarks of James DeFord “J.D.” Hays’s tenure as Alabama Farm Bureau president from 1961-1978. The Madison County farmer was county president, state resolutions Hays chairman and vice president before his statewide election. The Hays administration oversaw dues increase from $5 to $19, plus $1 for the political action committee ELECT, which helped boost the Federation’s influence and impact. Improvements included expanding field staff and commodity programs; forming the stock life insurance company; organizing the group’s first political action committee; and creating Neighbors magazine. Hays also established the first Southern Commodity Producers Conference, attended by Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and Vice President Walter Mondale. alfafarmers.org

Major legislation through his leadership included property tax classification in 1972 and the “lid” bill in 1978. A University of Alabama chemical engineering graduate, Hays was prominent in land development in the burgeoning metropolis of Huntsville and donated 650 acres for the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course. He died in 1998. The family since donated over 500 acres for the J.D. and Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve in Hampton Cove.

Goodwyn Myrick

1978-1998

Goodwyn Myrick led Alabama farmers during a time of exponential growth and influence. The Etowah County farmer was elected Alabama Farm Bureau president in 1978. In 20 years of leadership, he presided over record membership growth — Myrick 217,000 to nearly 400,000 — and rapid insurance company expansion. Political power boomed; voluntary political action committee contributions increased from $1 to $2; and the organization hired a full-time national lobbyist after resigning membership in American Farm Bureau in 1981. In 1987, the state group became Alabama Farmers Federation; the insurance company was named renamed Alfa. Myrick met annually with county leaders in every area of Alabama; supported the “current use” law; and invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in educational support for schools and universities — ironic for a man whose formal education ended after 11th grade. He understood the significance of healthy, happy employees. Myrick installed a fitness center in the home office, built a state-of-the-art child-care facility and reduced Alfa Insurance agent turnover from 80% in 1978 to 15% by 1997. Myrick was a dairy and beef cattle alfafarmers.org

producer who farmed in Gadsden and Talladega. He was a former Etowah County president, State Dairy Committee member, state board member and first vice president. His honors include induction into the Alabama Agricultural Hall of Honor and the Alabama Business Hall of Fame, plus an honorary doctorate from Troy State University. Myrick died in 2003.

Jerry A. Newby

1998-2012

Jerry A. Newby’s love of farming brought him to Montgomery as president of the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance in 1998 when he was 51. That love fueled his leadership through 2012. During his tenure, the Federation reaffiliated with the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) in 2006. The Commodity Department grew to include new divisions for hay and forage; wildlife; bee and honey; greenhouse, nursery and Newby sod; equine; and sheep and goats. Other accomplishments included growing the Agriculture in the Classroom program, developing the Ag Tag, creating the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation, passing the Family Farm Preservation Act and defeating Amendment 1 (a statewide tax increase) in 2003. It was a stormy period, too. Alabama notched more catastrophic storms in Newby’s 14-year tenure than the previous 50 years combined. Most notable were Hurricanes Ivan and Katrina and the April 27, 2011, tornadoes. Prior to being state president, Newby was a state vice president; Limestone County Farmers Federation president; State Young Farmers Committee chairman; and AFBF Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee member. Newby still serves on the Limestone County Farmers Federation board.

His family grows cotton, corn, wheat, soybeans and raises stocker calves near Athens.

Jimmy Parnell

2012-present

Loyal. Honest. Personable. That’s Jimmy Parnell. Now 55 years old, the farmer has been at the helm of the state’s largest farm organization since 2012. He’s ushering the Alabama Farmers Federation into its centennial year while Alfa Insurance, of which he’s also president, celebrates its diamond anniversary. Parnell and wife Robin helped start the Chilton County Young Farmers, sparking his involvement in the state organization. Parnell was State Young Farmers Committee chair in 1998 and won the 1999 Parnell Outstanding Young Farm Family contest before serving nine years on the state board. He was Chilton County Farmers Federation president from 2006-2012. Parnell oversees insurance operations in 11 states, and Alfa is Alabama’s No. 1 life insurance company. The company recently underwent a technology systems overhaul, one of the largest IT projects in the world. The Federation has over 350,000 member families. A native of Stanton, Parnell graduated from Auburn University in agricultural business and economics in 1985 before returning to Parnell Inc., his family’s timber and cattle operation that includes a commercial cow herd and stocker calves. Parnell serves on the national Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for Trade in Animals and Products. Yellowhammer News has named him one of Alabama’s most influential leaders. Parnell is a former Logger of the Year named by the Alabama Forestry Association and serves on the American Farm Bureau Federation board. March/Spring 2021

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Gray Named Associate Administrator Of USDA Risk Management Agency eith Gray, an Alabama native, is the said American farmers are fortunate to with catastrophic losses due to major K new associate administrator of the have Gray in this position. weather events. U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) “The federal crop insurance program Gray has extensive political Risk Management Agency (RMA). The is vital to American farmers, and it is position is the highest critical to keeping the food career-ranking position supply and economy stable within the agency. in the U.S.,” Parnell said. Gray, who served as “Keith’s knowledge and RMA chief of staff since experience are invaluable 2018, began his new to USDA. He also position Jan. 17. He said understands the decisions he’s excited about his role made by that agency affect in the agency, where he the livelihood of farmers.” also serves as manager of The new RMA the Federal Crop Insurance administrator will be Gray Corporation in the absence appointed by the Biden of the administrator. administration. “I am looking forward to serving as RMA manages America’s $115 billion associate administrator and continuing Federal Crop Insurance Corporation to serve America’s farmers and to provide crop insurance products ranchers,” said Gray, who grew up in to America’s farmers and ranchers. Tallassee. “I have worked with USDA in Approved Insurance Providers (AIPs) various capacities over the past several sell and service federal crop insurance decades, and I am glad to continue policies through a public-private working with the RMA.” partnership with RMA. The agency Federation President Jimmy Parnell backs AIPs who share risks associated

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experience and served as National Affairs director for the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance. He is a former legislative assistant for then-U.S. Rep. Terry Everett, R-Ala., who served on the House Agriculture Committee. Gray previously was president of Gray Matter Consulting, a grants and government relations consulting company, for eight years. He graduated from the University of Alabama with a B.A. in political science and a master’s in public administration. He also is a graduate of George Mason School of Law in Arlington, Virginia. He is an active volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America’s National Capital Area Council where he serves as area vice president and is a member of the executive board. He and wife Nicole live in Alexandria, Virginia, and have two children.

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Farmers Federation, The King Of Goat Hill Federation President Jimmy Parnell greets Gov. Kay Ivey at the annual Taste of Alabama legislative reception in 2019. The event showcases Alabama commodities and is a favorite among politicians. Federation leaders can meet and share ideas with elected officials.

Guest Column By Steve Flowers hile the Roaring ‘20s brought W celebration and excess in American cities, the nation’s farmers

were facing all-time low prices. So, with a survival instinct known only by the tillers of the soil who were the soul and backbone of the nation, farmers in America organized. In 1921, Alabama Farm Bureau was among the first groups to give farmers a voice in the political process. A century later, that organization, the Alabama Farmers Federation, stands as one of the premier farm organizations in America. It is also the preeminent political power in the State of Alabama. By the 1930s, however, industry had propelled Birmingham into a major economic force in the state. U.S. Steel had essentially made the Magic City the big boy on the block, politically speaking. Urban interests made an attempt in the Alabama Legislature in 1931 to weaken the farmers’ organization. Ten thousand farmers descended on the State Capitol in a legislative hearing that had to be moved to Cramton Bowl to accommodate the crowd. That moment was the shot heard around the state. Alabama Farmers Federation emerged as an influential player in Montgomery, and I am here to tell you — throughout the past century, that has not changed. Alfa has not relinquished that power and has become even more consequential. For the past 90 years, the Alabama Farmers Federation has been one of the most powerful forces in Alabama politics. One of the first major legislative issues the organization accomplished occurred in the 1930s when the farmers endorsed Gov. Bibb Graves’ plan for a state income tax that allowed for a homestead exemption on the state alfafarmers.org

property tax. This exemption has been protected diligently by the Federation for nearly a century. During that time, the organization has thwarted any efforts to increase property taxes in Alabama. This political prowess has not only benefited farmers but also every homeowner in the state. Two of the crowning political coups garnered by the Federation were accomplished in the 1970s. The first came in 1972, when the “lid” bill was passed. This bill established that farmland would be classified at 15% — a lower percentage than other properties. Then, in 1978, the classification rate was reduced to 10% in conjunction with the passage of the monumental “current use” law. This legislation set in statutory language that farmland would be taxed on the property’s use instead of some higher, speculative value. These two measures have meant hundreds of millions of dollars in tax savings for farmers and homeowners in Alabama. Today, the Federation is a beacon of conservative political philosophy in one of America’s most conservative states. When the Federation talks, people and, more importantly, politicians listen. This influence has been earned by outstanding leaders like Ed O’Neal, Walter Randolph, J.D. “Jimmy” Hays, Ed Lowder, John Dorrill, Goodwyn Myrick, Jerry Newby and Jimmy Parnell. However, the Federation’s real power is in its local leaders. County Federation board members are leaders in their communities. They are deacons in their

churches, leaders of the chamber of commerce, PTA presidents and local bank board members. In short, they are among the most respected people in their counties. Their endorsement means something. It is the first endorsement sought by most major candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, Supreme Court, Congress and the Legislature. Many times, conservative Alabamians who are not farmers also follow the Federation endorsement sheet because they know these candidates have been fully vetted. The Federation epitomizes these cardinal political maxims, “walk softly and carry a big stick,” “you do not leave old friends to make new friends,” and “your word is your bond.” Their leaders are people who make America a great nation and Alabama a great state. The Alabama Farmers Federation has a proven past and a strong future. With a leader like Jimmy Parnell at the helm, that future is bright. This Chilton County farmer was born to be president of this heralded organization. He has the Federation poised to build upon its outstanding heritage and legacy and lead Alabama politically for the next decade and decades to come. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the Legislature. He may be reached at steveflowers.us. March/Spring 2021

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ALABAMA TALK

e had a stutter. Whenever he opened his mouth, it took eﬀort to get words out. Just one sentence would exhaust him. As a boy, his sisters spoke for him. They were his guardians. They used ﬁsts when necessary. His oldest sister bought a mailorder book about curing speech impediments. For hours, she’d help him recite sentences, enunciating consonants, repeating exercises. He tried. He concentrated so hard it made his brain ache. It didn’t work. When he was 19, he attended a speech therapy class. It cost a small fortune. He’d saved pennies and dimes for three years to pay tuition. The school term lasted a few weeks but did no good. He returned home with a stutter even worse than before. One of his sisters recalls, “It used to hurt us to watch him talk. He’d try so hard, but his mouth wouldn’t work.” Until. A July night, he was washing dishes in the service station in town. He was standing over a sink when he met her. She introduced herself as the new waitress. He couldn’t even get his name past his lips. So he shook her hand instead. She rolled her sleeves and washed dishes alongside him. She talked extra so he wouldn’t have to. Her accent was country, her eyes were blue. He was smitten. She was pretty, funny, talkative. She

could jaw for eight minutes on end without even coming up for air. He tried to talk to her, but his words kept coming out like bricks. She wasn't put off. She didn’t try to finish his sentences. She smiled and listened. One night after work, they went for a long walk. She took his arm — a girl had never done that to him before. They strolled from one end of town to the other. When they reached the city limit, they turned and walked back. They did this four or five times. He got home at 5 in the morning. His feet hurt. His heart felt light. His sisters were curious. “Where WERE you?” they asked. “I-I-I met a g-g-g…” he said. A girl. They took more walks. She was just as good at listening to his choppy words as she was at talking. His speech came easier. Sometimes, it didn’t sound like he had a stutter. They made a happy couple. Before she passed from breast cancer, she gave him five children and her heart. He gave her 46 years of his life. His sisters were at the service. They cried hard. One of his sons gave the eulogy. He said: “My aunts say Dad stuttered as a boy. That’s so weird, ‘cause my dad was the most well-spoken man. I never heard him stutter, not even once.” His sisters say they don’t know how it happened. I do. And he’s with her right now. ■

Columnist and novelist Sean Dietrich shares tales of common people, the human spirit, traditional regional music and life in the American South through his podcast series at SeanDietrich.com. 32

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Making Healthier Choices That Work promote blood vessel health,” said Sofia Sanchez, an Alabama Extension community health specialist and registered dietitian. “Try roasting sliced beets with a drizzle of olive oil in the oven.”

Fruit

The Dietary Guidelines recommends at least 2 cups of fruits each day. All fresh, frozen, canned and dried fruits — such as apples, pears, bananas, berries and citrus fruits — are great options for personalizing a plate to add natural sweetness and flavor. “Figs are one of my favorite fruits and can be grown in Alabama,” Funderburk said.

Grains

At least half the grains adults consume should be whole grain. Try incorporating a new grain into dinner, such as whole-grain rice or quinoa.

Dairy

The recommendation for dairy varies based on age. Most benefit by increasing dairy intake in fat-free or low-fat forms, whether from milk (including lactose-free milk), yogurt or a soy beverage. By Dustin Duncan

arch is National Nutrition Month M in the U.S., an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition

and Dietetics. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAP-Ed), a healthy lifestyle initiative at Auburn University, promotes the campaign each year to invite Alabamians to make informed food choices about healthy eating. “The theme for National Nutrition Month this year is Personalize Your Plate,” said Katie Funderburk, an Alabama Extension specialist and registered dietitian. “We love it (the

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Protein

theme) since meeting people where they’re at and encouraging them to make healthier choices that work is what SNAP-Ed does best.” Healthy eating recommendations are based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which offers several key suggestions.

Healthy diet patterns include various protein foods, which can come from animal and plant sources. The Guidelines recommendation includes sourcing protein from lean meats, seafood low in methylmercury and beans low in added sodium.

Vegetables

Living a healthy lifestyle is all about making choices. Funderburk suggests starting small and setting attainable goals. For more information on what SNAP-Ed does to improve Alabamians’ quality of life, search Live Well Alabama on social media or visit the Live Well Alabama page at aces.edu.

Eat at least 2 1/2 cups of vegetables daily. Vegetables offer various flavors, textures and colors to explore, each with its own unique health benefits. For example, red and orange foods, such as bell peppers and sweet potatoes, provide vitamins A, C and K. “Beets contain nutrients that

More Information

March/Spring 2021

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Lemongrass Mint Work Around Irksome (But Appetizing) Herbs French Tarragon. It is very finicky. Try Texas or Mexican Tarragon (Tagetes lucida) as a substitute.

By Lois Chaplin

olks in the garden business Fplants,” sometimes refer to herbs as “gateway meaning culinary herbs are

Alabama

often the first plants a new gardener will try. As confidence grows, so does the courage to try other plants until one day they are full-fledged gardeners! Anyone who cooks knows it’s handy and economical to have fresh handfuls of chives, basil, cilantro, thyme and other herbs within reach. Success in containers begins with good soil (premium potting soil) and some sun. It’s best to avoid small containers. A 6-inch pot seems adequate starting out but is soon nearly impossible to keep watered. Instead, large pots — 12 to 18 inches in diameter — work better. Pots may be plastic, fiberglass, clay or glazed pottery. Fabric “grow bags” made of spun polyester are popular for their light weight, economy and easy storage; although they vary in durability and quality, most will last at least two years. The ubiquitous 5-gallon bucket with holes drilled into the

bottom for drainage also works. The key with all pots is to have good drainage and enough soil volume to support growth and hold moisture. With the exception of mint, herbs need excellent drainage. The easiest and fastest way to start most herbs is from purchased transplants, not from seed. Many herb seeds are slow to sprout, and the seedlings are delicate. Because they are used in small quantities, it’s more cost effective to buy one transplant of each herb than buy the seeds and supplies required to start them. One exception is the many basil plants needed if wanting to make pesto; in warm weather, basil is easy from seed. Rosemary, chives and thyme will live for several years, so give them their own pot, or plant them together. Lemongrass also needs its own pot because of its size, as does mint because it is so vigorous. Parsley will live from now through next winter. Harvest it often to keep tender leaves coming. Most herbs

Sage. Doesn’t like the humid summer. Needs full sun all day. Mulch pot with gravel to help keep foliage dry. Also, snip from the inside to keep the plant open for good air circulation. Cilantro. Whether started from seeds or transplants, spring-planted cilantro thins out just a few weeks after planting. The secret to cilantro, which is frost tolerant, is to plant in the fall so it lasts until spring. Lavender. Spanish lavender (Lavendula stoechas) is better suited to heat and humidity than English lavender such as Munstead. Plant it in a pot mulched with gravel and thin the top for good air circulation. don’t need much fertilizer, but any that are heavily harvested often — such as parsley, chives and basil — will need a liquid plant food every couple months. Even folks with some shade can grow herbs, because leafy plants don’t need as much sun as fruiting crops. Just a few hours of sun or dappled light works fine. Herb growing is a great way to start growing a little something for the kitchen. Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

Breeze Into Springtime Savings E ALAFARM.COM 34

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Aunt Matilda’s Peanut Brittle

Prep Time 5 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Ingredients 1/2 cup light corn syrup 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup water 2 cups raw shelled peanuts 2 teaspoons butter 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

arch is Peanut Month here in M Alabama, and whether you’re snacking on them boiled, roasted or

maybe just a big ol’ spoonful of peanut butter, there’s a good chance those peanuts were grown right here in our home state. That’s because Alabama is the second largest peanut-growing state in the nation with over 900 peanut farmers. In fact, half of all peanuts produced in the U.S. are grown within a 100-mile radius of Dothan. Henry County farmer Thomas Adams is nuts about the legume. His family grows peanuts around Newville. But he’s not too picky when it comes to his favorite peanut-powered snack; he’ll eat ‘em raw from the field, roasted, coated in a thin layer of chocolate as Peanut M&Ms or in peanut butter pie, to name a few. He fondly remembers his grandmother’s peanut caramel cake, a family favorite. “I love that I’m growing a healthy, nutritious snack that is great for the environment,” said Adams, who serves 36

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District 12 on the Alabama Farmers Federation board of directors. “Peanuts are a filling snack. You can eat a few ounces, and that’ll carry you over to the next mealtime.” While I don’t have his grandmother’s recipe for that peanut caramel cake, I do have up my sleeve a few recipes where peanuts really shine. Take Chewy Peanut Butter Cookie Bars, for example. These crazy-easy bars feature salted peanuts, peanut butter and peanut butter chips! There’s some serious peanut flavor in these. And we can’t talk about peanuts without mentioning Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Meringue Pie. This is a classic. The velvety smooth filling is the perfect complement to the peanut butter crumble mixture that goes in and on top of the pie. Last, but not least, is Aunt Matilda’s Peanut Brittle. This classic recipe might require a little more finesse than you’re used to, but the reward is absolutely worth the effort. We’ve been making

Grease a large sheet of aluminum foil with butter or nonstick cooking spray. Set aside. In a large cast iron skillet over medium heat, combine corn syrup, sugar and water. Stir well.   Cook until mixture reaches the soft ball stage (235 F) using a candy thermometer. Add peanuts and stir constantly. Cook until mixture reaches the hard crack stage (300 F). The peanuts might start popping, and you might see a little smoke come off the mixture. Remove from heat as soon as it hits the 300 F mark. It will scorch if you get it too hot.   Quickly add butter, baking soda and vanilla. Baking soda will cause the mixture to lighten and foam. Stir well.  Pour on the prepared aluminum foil. Spread thin and allow to cool completely.  Break into pieces and enjoy. this peanut brittle as long as I can remember. With peanuts and peanut butter making up two-thirds of nut consumption in the U.S., chances are you’re already familiar with the legume some folks affectionately call goobers. Keep on enjoying those peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, but don’t be afraid to branch out and sample peanuts in a few new ways. Y’all enjoy! Stacey Little is a foodie, recipe developer and cookbook author whose Southern Bite blog helps families put simple, down-to-earth food on the table while preserving Southern cooking for future generations. See more recipes at southernbite.com. alfafarmers.org

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 40 mins

Re c

Chewy Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

e ip

atured Fe on

Servings 12

Ingredients 1 cup unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup peanut butter 1 cup sugar 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 2 eggs, well beaten 2 cups self-rising flour 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 cup salted peanuts 1 cup peanut butter chips

Instructions Heat oven to 300 F and lightly spray a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, peanut butter, sugar and brown sugar. Stir until well combined. Add eggs and stir until smooth.   Add flour and stir until combined. Add vanilla. Add peanuts and peanut butter

chips, reserving a few of each to sprinkle on top. Stir to combine.   Spread mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle with reserved

peanuts and peanut butter chips. Bake about 40 minutes or until the edges are set but the middle is a bit jiggly. Cool completely before slicing.

constantly to prevent scorching, until thickened — about 10 minutes. The mixture should be the consistency of thick pudding. Remove from heat and add vanilla and butter. Stir until butter has melted. Pour mixture over the peanut butter mixture in the pie crust. Make meringue by beating egg whites with an electric mixer in a clean bowl until frothy. Gradually add the other

1/4 cup sugar and continue to beat until you get to the stiff peak stage. The meringue should be glossy. Spread over the custard filling in the pie. Sprinkle the remaining peanut butter crumble mixture over the meringue and bake 20 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely and chill in the refrigerator 2 to 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Meringue Pie Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 25 minutes

Servings 8

Ingredients 1 (9-inch) frozen deep-dish pie shell 1 cup powdered sugar 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter 1/4 cup cornstarch 2/3 cup plus 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 cups milk 3 large eggs, separated 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions Bake crust for a filled pie according to package instructions and cool completely.  Heat oven to 325 F. In a small bowl, use a fork to mix the powdered sugar and peanut butter until the mixture is crumbly. Spread about 2/3 of the mixture in the bottom of the cooled pie crust. Set the remainder aside.   In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornstarch, 2/3 cup sugar and salt. Add milk and egg yolks and whisk well. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring alfafarmers.org

March/Spring 2021

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#CROPPORTUNITY

unitedsoybean.org

for Alabama Soybean Farmers

GROWING

cropportunity IS WHAT WE DO

Thanks to all of us in the soy industry, you can find U.S. soy in a lot of places. Your food, your food’s food, your fuel, rubber, foam, lubricants, motor oil, tires, overseas … you get the idea. And there’s a lot more #Cropportunity for your soybeans where these came from.

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Neighbors Magazine, March 2021

Articles inside

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Farmers Prepare For Political Changes In D.C

Tuberville, Moore Appointed To Ag Committees

Living The Good Life With Alfa Insurance

Carpenetti’s Pizzeria Named Bama’s Best Pizza