May 2012 Neighbors Magazine by Alabama Farmers Federation

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In This Issue A Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation MAY 2012

Spring Planting Farmers are optimistic about their crops, but high input costs may mitigate potential profits. • 16

Farm Of Distinction Givhan Land and Cattle Co. in Dallas County is Alabama’s Farm of Distinction for 2012. • 5

Positive Seeds ON THE COVER Washington County farmer Walt Richardson said an early spring and ample rain has this year’s corn crop off to a good start. Photo by Debra Davis

A school garden is helping troubled students in Lauderdale County grow self esteem. • 12

Regulator Overreach The federal government wants to decide what type

DEPARTMENTS 4

President’s Message

Alabama Gardener

Country Kitchen

30 Classifieds

of chores farm kids can perform. • 18

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VOLUME 37, NUMBER 5

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hile shoppers are enjoying yields and mitigate losses during the early arrival of strawberdry weather. Unfortunately, despite ries and other fresh produce having abundant water resources, this spring, Alabama farmers know Alabama lags woefully behind other the jury is still out on how the states in the use of on-farm irrigaunseasonably warm weather will tion. affect their crops. According to university Although strong storms brought researchers, Alabama utilizes only heavy rains to much of the state about 2.5 of its available water and in late winter, portions of Barbour, has about 100,000 acres of irrigated Henry, Dale and Coffee counties cropland, compared to Georgia and are experiencing “exceptional” Mississippi that each have more drought — the most severe level than 1 million acres under irrigatracked by the U.S. Drought Monition. tor. Meanwhile, “extreme” drought To help Alabama farmers take conditions persist from better advantage of the state’s Dothan to Auburn and water resources, the Alabama from Eufaula to AndaluFarmers Federation is supsia, with 42 percent of the porting a bill in the Legislastate abnormally dry or ture that would provide a tax worse. credit for farmers who invest This comes at a time in irrigation equipment and when farmers are hoping reservoirs. Sponsored by Rep. Jerry Newby for a good crop to offset Chad Fincher, R-Semmes, skyrocketing fuel and nitrogen pric- and Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, the es and other input costs. Statewide, measure would not only strengthen Alabama farmers expect to plant Alabama agriculture, it would promore peanuts, corn and soybeans, vide a boost to the state’s economy but less cotton. Meanwhile, beef as well. cattle farmers are counting on timeDr. Sam Fowler, director of ly rains to make a good hay crop. the Alabama Waters Resources Likewise, catfish, pork and poultry Research Institute at Auburn Unifarmers are looking for higher corn versity, said the proposed legislaand soybean production to stave off tion could create a direct economic rising feed costs. impact between $185 and $210 for Although commodity prices every $1 given in tax credit. Over remain high thanks to an increasthe long term, State Climatologist ing appetite for American-grown Dr. John Christy estimates adding food in places like China and India, 1 million acres of irrigated land in farmers know rising costs and Alabama would have the same ecounpredictable weather can spell nomic impact as two automobile disaster. That’s why farmers conmanufacturing plants. tinue to seek new ways to increase While farmers remain optimisefficiency and manage risk. tic that spring rains will bring relief Across America, conservafrom the dry weather, this legislation tillage has tripled since 1982. tion could help preserve the harvest This method of farming not only in years when summer’s unrelentconserves water and reduces soil ing heat parches the land. erosion, it also saves on labor and For more information about fuel costs. Similarly, the use of the irrigation incentives bill, HB improved crop varieties has reduced 328 and SB 153, as well as other the need for costly pesticides. legislation important to Federation Many farmers also are investmembers, visit AlfaFarmers.org/ ing in irrigation to help increase capitolconnection. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Debra Davis, Editor Mike Moody, Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan, Executive Director Jeff Helms, Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jerry Newby, President, Athens Hal Lee, Vice President/North, Hartselle Dean Wysner, Vice President/Central, Woodland Ricky Wiggins, Vice President/Southeast, Andalusia Jake Harper, Vice President/Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn, Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Joe Dickerson, Lexington Ted Grantland, Somerville Waymon Buttram, Geraldine Darrel Haynes, Cullman John E. Walker III, Berry Dell Hill, Alpine Richard Edgar, Deatsville Dickie Odom, Boligee Garry Henry, Hope Hull Carl Sanders, Brundidge David Bitto, Elberta S. Steve Dunn, Samson Rita Garrett, Centre John Bitto, Elberta 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 member benefits of the Alabama Farmers Federation, visit the Web site 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. ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Wendy McFarland, McFarland AdVantage, 133 Bridlewood Lane, Hope Hull, AL 36043. Phone: (334) 652-9080. Email: mcfarlandadvantage@gmail.com. Classified ad and editorial inquiries should be directed to the editor at (334) 613-4410. ADVERTISING DISCLAIMER: Advertise ments contained in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement by the magazine or the Alabama Farmers Federation. EDITORIAL MATTER from sources outside of the Alabama Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for the information and interest of our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Alabama Farmers Federation policies. Publication of material does not necessarily imply its endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation. ADDRESS editorial, advertising and change of address correspondence to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001. www.AlfaFarmers.org A member of American Farm Bureau Federation M AY 2 0 1 2

Givhan Land And Cattle Company Named Farm Of Distinction By Debra Davis

diversified Dallas County farm was named the state’s 2012 Farm of Distinction during the Alabama Farm-City Awards Luncheon in Birmingham, April 2. At 68, the farm’s owner, Sam Givhan, has seen a lot of changes in agriculture at Givhan Land and Cattle Co., but it’s his ability to change and adapt that’s made his farm successful. His farm expanded from traditional Black Belt crops like cotton and soybeans to catfish and cattle. “When I was a kid, most of the farming was done with mules,” Givhan recalled. “We had a few old tractors that did some ground work, but the Congratulations to Sam and Lynne Givhan, seated in the John Deere Gator, this year`s Alabama Farm plowing and planting and all of Distinction winners. The Givhans operate a diversified farm in Dallas County where they raise cotton, catfish, soybeans and beef cattle. From left are Tom Tribble of John Deere; Jerry Newby, president of that – and the harvesting of Alabama Farmers Federation; Jim Allen of Alabama Farmers Cooperative; the Givhans; and John Deere cotton – was done by manDealers Chris Cline of Snead Ag Supply, Lester Killebrew of SunSouth, Kenneth Williams of Snead Ag ual labor and animal power. Supply and Lynne Morton of TriGreen Equipment. Over the years, we’ve finally evolved into trying to do as much other prizes. while David manages the beef and no-till farming as we can here. We A Vietnam veteran, Givhan hay operations. still do some things the old way, returned to his family farm near Givhan served 26 years as presibut agriculture in this area has Safford in 1969, and by 1972, he dent of the Dallas County Farmers really changed.” was running the operation as presiFederation and is a former board As this year’s winner, Givhan dent and manager. Today, the farm member of the Alabama Farmers will represent Alabama in the spans more than 4,500 acres and Federation. He is president of the Swisher Sweets Sunbelt Expo includes about 2,000 acres of row Central Alabama Farmers Co-Op Southeastern Farmer of the Year crops, a 400-cow commercial beef and incoming chairman of the contest Oct. 16-18 in Moultrie, Ga. cattle herd and 250 acres of catfish Alabama Farmers Co-Op board of During the state awards proponds. While Givhan’s biggest crop directors. Other Farm of Distinction finalgram, the Givhans received a John remains soybeans, he said catfish ists from around the state also were Deere Gator donated by SunSouth, have played an increasingly imporrecognized during the Farm-City Snead Ag and TriGreen Equipment tant role in recent years. awards luncheon, which was held dealers in Alabama, plus a $1,250 “We’ve been growing some in conjunction with the Alabama gift certificate from Alabama Farm- catfish for about 20-25 years now, Farmers Federation’s Women’s ers Cooperative, redeemable at but I got serious about it about 15 Leadership Conference. The finalany of its member Quality Co-Op years ago,” Givhan said. “I saw ists were Donald and Janice Hodge stores. The Alabama Farmers Fedthe handwriting that you’re either of New Market in Madison County; eration and Alfa Health presented going to have to get to a viable size the Givhans an engraved farm sign. operation or get out, so we invested Paul and Carolyn Beavers of Trafford in Jefferson County and Joe and They also will receive a $2,500 cash and went into it, and it’s been one Faye Williams of Newton in Dale award and an expense-paid trip of the better ends of the operation County. Each received a $250 gift to the Sunbelt Agricultural Expo. for the last few years. “ certificate from the Alabama FarmThe Swisher Sweets Sunbelt Expo Givhan and his wife, Lynne, Southeastern Farmer of the Year have two sons involved in the farm. ers Co-Op and an engraved plaque. n will receive $14,000, plus several The oldest, Sam, is an attorney,

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Young Artists, Writers Honored At State Farm-City Awards Luncheon By Melissa Martin and Miranda Mattheis

oung artists, writers and volunteers from around the state were honored April 2 at the Alabama Farm-City Awards Luncheon in Birmingham. This year’s theme for the poster and essay contests, “Harvesting Healthy Choices” supports the National Farm-City Council’s strategy of addressing one potentially divisive issue each year. “Harvesting Healthy Choices” gives the agricultural community a chance to talk about the health benefits of locally grown produce and dispels the myth that modern agriculture is to blame for America’s expanding waistline. The poster and essay contests received a strong response from students, with 130 total entries at the state level. Students qualified for the state awards by winning first place in their counties. In the poster contest, McKenna Myrick of Jefferson County took first place in the KindergartenThird Grade Division, while Stephen Aldridge of Dale County took first place in the Fourth-Sixth Grade Division. Second place in the Kindergarten-Third Grade Division went to Makayla Delvecchio

State Farm-City essay and poster winners were honored during a luncheon April 2 in Birmingham. From left are Alabama Farmers Co-Op Vice President Jim Allen, essay winners Libby Harrigan of Clarke County and Victoria Booker of St. Clair County, poster winners Stephen Aldridge of Dale County and McKenna Myrick of Jefferson County and Alabama Farm-City Chairman Jeff Helms.

of Houston County, and Jaylen Deveridge of Pike County placed second in the Fourth-Sixth Grade Division. First-place winners in the poster contest each received $200, second-place winners each received $100, and each winner’s school received matching contributions. Taking top honors in the essay contest were Victoria Booker of St.

A poster by Stephen Aldridge of Dale County won first place in the Fourth-Sixth Grade Division of the poster contest. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Clair County in the Seventh-Ninth Grade Division and Libby Harrigan of Clarke County in the 10th-12th Grade Division. Meanwhile, Zach Hurst of Clay County took second place in the Seventh-Ninth Grade Division, and Sarah Swain of Calhoun County took second place in the 10th-12th Grade Division. Firstplace winners in the essay contest

A poster by McKenna Myrick of Jefferson County won first place in the poster contest for students in the Kindergarten-Third Grade Division. 6

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each received $300, with secondplace winners each receiving $200. Each winner’s school received matching contributions. The winning posters will be featured in the 2013 Alabama Farm-City calendar, along with the artwork of 10 other students, who received honorable mentions for their entries. Those students were: Anna Walling, Chilton County; Samuel Corson, Clay County; Cherokee McShane, Clay County; Carter Gay, Cullman County; Kelsey Young, Etowah County; Courtney Breeding, Lawrence County; Dylan Seth Brewer, Limestone County; Keaton Grace Gunter, Marengo County; Jamie Moore, Marengo County; and Teri Kim, Montgomery County. The Farm-City Committee of Alabama sponsors the annual awards program in cooperation with Alabama Farmers Cooperative and Alabama Ag in the Classroom. As a way to help bridge the gap between rural and urban residents, Farm-City Week is observed nationally each year the week before Thanksgiving.

Top Counties, Volunteers Honored County volunteers who excel in fostering understanding and cooperation among rural and urban residents also were honored during the awards luncheon. Coffee County won the award for the Best Farm-City Committee in the state. The county was recognized for the Best Scrapbook, Best Farm-City Dinner and the top award for counties in Division I (population 35,600 or more). Other winners in Division I were: Etowah County, Best Farm-City Tour; Lawrence County, Innovative Idea Award; Cullman County, Best Media Coverage/Proclamation, Target Award and Runner Up Best Farm-City Committee in Division I; Houston County, Best Civic Club Activities; and Jefferson M AY 2 0 1 2

Coffee County Farm-City Chairman Daniel Stephens, left, accepts the award for the Best FarmCity Committee in the state from Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms.

County, Best Special Activities. Franklin County took top honors in Division II (population less than 35,600). The Franklin County Farm-City Committee also won the Best Farm-City Dinner, Best Special Activities and the Target Award. Other Division II winners were: Cherokee County, Best FarmCity Tour; Randolph County, Best Scrapbook Award; Cleburne County, Innovative Idea Award; Pickens

County, Best Media Coverage/ Proclamation Award and RunnerUp Best Farm-City Committee in Division II; and Henry County, Best Civic Club Activities. Coffee and Franklin counties also received plaques from the National Farm-City Council for winning their respective divisions. In addition to recognizing outstanding county Farm-City committees, the 2011 Volunteer of the Year Award was given to Caroline Batcheldor of Russell County. A volunteer for more than 50 years, Batcheldor was nominated by more than a half-dozen of her peers and fellow Farm-City Committee members, largely due to her work with Russell County’s Farm-City Breakfast. In addition to the breakfast, Batcheldor provides leadership for compiling the county’s scrapbook and is instrumental in constructing the Russell County Farm-City Exhibit each year. n Caroline Batcheldor of Russell County received the Farm-City Volunteer of the Year Award from State Farm-City Chairman Jeff Helms.

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Federation Backs Bills To Reform Federal Estate Tax Laws By Debra Davis he Alabama Farmers Federation supports pending legislation in Congress that would help protect America’s farm and ranch families from potentially crippling blows of the federal estate tax following a farm owner’s death. “Farming is a capitalintensive industry,” said Federation National Legislative Programs Director Mitt Walker. “The majority of assets owned by a typical farm family are in the form of land and equipment. When a farm is transferred to the next generation and there isn’t enough cash on hand to cover the taxes owed, surviving family members may be forced to sell off a substantial portion of the farm to pay the taxes. There is just something wrong with that scenario.” The Senate bill, the Death Tax Repeal Permanency Act of 2012 (S. 2242), was introduced by Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.). The bill is similar to another bill, H.R. 1259, introduced in the House by U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady (R-Texas). The

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House bill now has more than 200 co-sponsors. Members of the Alabama congressional delegation who have cosponsored the bill in their respective chambers include U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions and U.S. Reps. Spencer Bachus, Robert Aderholt, Jo Bonner,

Martha Roby and Mo Brooks, all Republicans. The Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010 set the estate tax exemption at $5 million per person, with a top tax rate of 35 percent for 2011 and 2012. That legisla8

tion also put in place a new provision for 2011 and 2012 that allows the unused portion of a spouse’s exemption to be used by a surviving spouse, and it permanently reinstates stepped-up basis in regard to tax treatment. The new legislation is necessary because without congressional action, in 2013, the estate tax exemption will shrink to $1 million per person with no spousal transfer, and the top rate will increase to 55 percent. This will strike a blow to farm and ranch operations trying to transition from one generation to the next, Walker said. “A $1 million exemption is not high enough to protect a typical farm or ranch able to support a family and, when coupled with a top tax rate of 55 percent, can be especially difficult for farm and ranch businesses,” he said. Although estate tax planning may protect some family farms and ranches from devastating estate taxes, planning tools are costly and take money needed to operate and expand businesses. n M AY 2 0 1 2

Will Gilmer Dairy Committee Chairman

A social media sensation, Will Gilmer of Lamar County has taught thousands of followers about life on a dairy farm through videos, photography, a blog and song parodies. He also created an online program for adopting dairy cows. Gilmer is chairman of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s State Dairy Committee. He and his father operate the farm his grandfather founded in the early 1950s. “Every day is a little bit different with its own opportunities and challenges,” Gilmer said. Gilmer is past chairman of the Federation’s Young Farmers State Committee and the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee. He is secretary/treasurer of the Lamar County Farmers Federation, and active in the Dairy Farmers of America Cooperative and American Dairy Association of Alabama. He and his wife, Joni, are members of Vernon First United Methodist Church. They have two children: Linton, 6, and Jillian, 3.

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Lawrence County FFA Wins National FFA Award By Mary Johnson At Lawrence County High School, FFA award banners and plaques from the past few years hang from every available spot in the agriculture classroom. Now, the group will have to find more award space for its national grand prize for the 2012 FFA Chapter Challenge. A total of 856 chapters from 12 states participated in the Chapter Challenge, which encouraged FFA members to learn about different types of agriculture by visiting farms and building relationships with their local farmers. Those farmers and other community members could vote for their favorite chapter, either online or over the phone. FFA member Keith McCormick said he wanted to participate in the challenge to prove even small town chapters can be the best. “This was a competition, and our FFA chapter is extremely competitive,” he said.

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Lawrence County FFA students view the 2012 FFA Chapter Challenge website. Their group won the overall grand prize with more than 1,000 votes. Seated from left are, Keith McCormick and Austin Blankenship; standing, Trevor Lee, Courtney Bennefield, Heather Fike, Will Cottingham and Jared Hornbuckle.

“This was a chance to help my chapter shine on a national stage, and in the end we won first place. Now I can say I was a national champ.” The group won the contest in an overwhelming fashion, receiving more than 10 percent of nearly 10,000 votes in the nationwide Chapter Challenge. FFA member Jesse Burgess said the Lawrence County High School chapter also participated last year in the inaugural challenge. “We won first in the state last year, which was a big accomplishment,” Burgess said. 10

“But this year, we wanted to do even more and get all of the FFA members involved in something to help us all.” Lawrence County FFA Advisor Robbie Vinzant said he is still deciding how to use the grand prizes including the scholarships for six students and one advisor to attend the 85th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis in October and the $2,500 FFA Certificate of Credit. The top 10 chapters in each state were recognized in the challenge and received FFA Certificates of Credit. Alabama’s top 10 were Danville, Falkville, Guntersville, Lincoln, Sulligent, Albertville, Ariton, Springville and George W. Long FFAs. The National FFA Foundation is the fund-raising arm of the National FFA Organization, which provides agricultural education to more than 540,000 student members. Monsanto sponsored the challenge. n M AY 2 0 1 2

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ifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lessons are often learned outside the four walls of a classroom. At the corner of West College Street and North Cherokee in Florence, Ala., local high school students are learning volumes from a small three-row garden on the back side of the Burrell Slater Community Education Center.

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Sophomore Andrew Hamer said the garden is his first experience with planting, but it has already taught him a lot. “I’ve learned the plants are like us kids,” Hamer said. “They need their nutrients, and we need our nutrients.” Students who tend the garden are part of the Special Programming for Achievement Network (S.P.A.N.) and were referred to the program as an alternative to the juvenile detention center. S.P.A.N. Program Coordinator Anthony Brooks said he uses the garden as a tool to teach about real life. “In the garden, you plant a seed, take care of it and watch it grow,” Brooks said. “We teach the kids that whatever you plant will grow

if it’s nourished. But if you only plant negative things, that’s what you’re going to get.” Brooks draws many parallels between the students and the plants in the garden. He says the garden helps his students understand they are in control of their lives, and while S.P.A.N. can provide education for a positive life foundation, the power for individual change and growth lies within each student. In its second year, the garden is now sponsored by the Lauderdale County Farmers Federation. Federation member and local farmer John Locker learned about the garden late in the season last year and decided to lend a hand. “This is just my way of givFederation member farmer John Locker, wearing the cap, gives a student a jalapeno pepper to plant.

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ing back,” Locker said. “With this group of kids, we can get a lot accomplished in just 20 minutes.” The Lauderdale County Farmers Federation paid for the plants, while Locker provided a special garden guard liner designed to minimize weed growth. He also donates his time, teaching the students how to fertilize and care for the garden. When planting tomatoes and peppers, Locker divided the group into diggers, fertilizers and planters. One digger shrieked when discovering a grub worm for the first time. Others dug up the remnants of onions and garlic planted last year, daring each other to eat the plants. Junior Molly Brown said she has planted a garden at her house before, but she thinks it’s unique to have a garden at school. “The only problem with it is the heat, but I really like going out and working it,” Brown said. “We all appreciate Mr. Locker coming and helping us with it.” Freshman Austin Durham participated with the garden last year, but he didn’t have much experience out in the dirt before that. “I know how to plant now,” Durham said. “I know you need to have fertilizer and water. I even planted a tree at home last year, and it’s still growing.” In the past, students donated the produce to other groups who use the education center, including a culinary class and senior citizens group. They hope to do the same with this year’s crop. The students have embraced the program. At the start of each school week, they are eager to visit the garden and see its new growth. “This garden shows us we have better things to do,” said Hamer, who will graduate this spring. “We can make a garden, which is a big responsibility and much better than getting in trouble. We’re making our life useful. It’s going to be beautiful.” n

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Politics And Humor Focus Of Women’s Leadership Conference

Speaker Jenny Nolen, left, interacts with program attendees at the 2012 Alabama Farmers Federation Women’s Leadership Conference in Birmingham.

By Debra Davis

ore than 220 female members of the Alabama Farmers Federation enjoyed humor, politics and personal development at the 2012 Women’s Leadership Conference in Birmingham April 1-3. Members collected 1,122 pounds of aluminum pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald House of Birmingham prior to the start of the conference. The Ronald McDonald Houses in Birmingham and Mobile are designated service projects of the Federation’s Women’s Leadership Division. Conference attendees also enjoyed special massage therapy treatments prior to the meeting’s official start. Jenny Nolen, a noted inspirational and motivational speaker from Mississippi, entertained the crowd during Sunday’s opening session with her humorous delivery of life lessons and observations. Monday morning’s breakfast program included a healthy portion of politics as Federation National Legislative Programs Director Mitt Walker discussed important legislation pending in Congress, including child labor rules, budgets and the impact of the farm bill. “I’ve always heard that if you w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

want something done, ask the members of our Women’s Leadership Committee to do it,” Walker said. “That’s certainly true when it comes to politics. They are engaged in every aspect of our organization and greatly responsible for its success.” Brian Hardin, the Federation’s assistant director of Governmental and Agricultural Programs, and David Cole, the Federation’s Agricultural Legislation director, discussed state political issues with attendees. Other workshops held covered landscape architecture and female health issues, as well as positive thinking through humor. The Women’s Leadership Conference merged with the Alabama 14

Farm-City Awards Luncheon, where many of the Federation leaders were recognized for their participation on that program. The closing banquet featured Alabama Public Service Commissioner Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh, who is seeking election as president of the commission. Cavanaugh, a former Miss Montgomery Farm Bureau Queen, reviewed her long history with the Federation and her journey into politics. Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Earwood said outstanding speakers, interesting workshops and eager participants made this one of the best Women’s Conferences yet. “Members of the State Women’s Committee worked hard to make sure our conference had something for everyone,” Earwood said. “We had so many positive comments about the conference, and I think everyone learned something they could take home with them.” n

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By Debra Davis

labama farmers are expected to plant more peanuts, corn and soybeans but less cotton this year, according to spring planting reports released by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Mild to above-normal temperatures from November to March, combined with adequate rainfall for most of the state during spring planting, gave many farmers a jump start on this year’s crop season. The wheat harvest continues to look favorable in most areas. “Good prices are predicted to hold for most commodities, giving farmers an optimistic outlook for this year’s crops,” said Buddy Adamson, director of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Cotton, Soybean and Wheat and Feed Grains Divisions. “ But those prices may not be enough to overcome recordhigh input costs.” Driven by favorable prices, U.S. farmers are expected to plant 95.9 million acres of corn in 2012, up 4 percent from 2011, according to the USDA report. If realized, this will

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be the largest corn acreage in the United States since 1937, when producers planted 97.2 million acres of corn. Farmers like Walt Richardson of Washington County said commodity prices are good, but higher costs for seed, fertilizer and fuel are making him cautiously optimistic. “Everything costs more,” said Walt, who farms with his brother, David, and their father, Rod. “And then there’s always the weather.

Now, it’s a matter of ‘when’ we are going to have a drought, not ‘if’ we’re going to have one.” Last year, the Richardsons planted 850 acres of cotton and 185 acres of peanuts. However, the higher profit potential for peanuts this year influenced their decision to plant more peanuts in 2012. Their cotton picker burned last year, so instead of replacing it, they opted to plant more peanuts and invest in another peanut combine.

Alabama Crop Acreages Year-to-Year Comparison

Thousand Acres

500 400

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

300 200 100 0

Cotton

1166

Corn

Soybeans

Peanuts

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“We booked peanuts for a contract of $750 a ton, and that’s the highest we’ve ever seen,” Rod said. “But where we have paid 50-something cents a pound for peanut seeds, we’re paying $1.30 a pound this year. Fertilizer is also nearly double what it was just a couple years ago, and diesel fuel is $4 a gallon.” Two years ago, the Richardsons had their best corn crop ever. Last year was their worst, mostly because of the weather. Their corn acreage didn’t change this year because they grow corn for a niche market – wildlife feed. Despite the high costs of planting crops, a recent survey of Alabama producers shows that of the state’s four major row crops, corn acres are projected to jump 7 percent, while soybean and peanut acres are projected to increase 3 and 24 percent, respectively. Cotton acres are projected to drop 13 percent from 2011 levels. The survey also shows the state’s hay crop should be up 20,000 acres from 2011. Winter wheat, with 230,000 seeded acres in 2011,

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will increase 5 percent this year, and oats are expected to increase by 5,000 acres for a total of 50,000 acres in 2012. Many farmers are investing in technology and irrigation to hedge their profit potential. The Richardsons are among them. “This will be our first year using GPS technology to plant and harvest all our crops,” Walt said. “Last year, we used it to a limited extent and could see the benefits.” For more information about the planting survey, visit www.nass. usda.gov. n

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Bipartisan Bill Aimed At Regulatory Overreach Of Family Farm Labor By Debra Davis

rule proposed by the U.S. Department of Labor that would restrict child labor on farms has struck a nerve with politicians and farmers alike who say the controversial rules would restrict the ability of farmers to work together as a family. U.S. Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., are sponsoring bipartisan legislation to protect America’s farmers from such federal regulatory overreach. The Preserving America’s Family Farm Act prevents the Department of Labor (DOL) from unilaterally imposing the rule. The bill is supported by the Alabama Farmers Federation. “Americans are justly concerned about the increasChris and Monica Carroll of Dale County say their daughter, Brittany, learns valuable lessons ing reach and scope of fedworking on the farm. Both of their children earn money for their savings account while working. eral intrusion,” Sessions said. “Especially troubling is that so would allow the federal governmake a profit from it and that in much of this intrusion is done ment to decide how rural families the meantime, it takes a commitwithout public debate or votes—but should raise their kids and what ment to care for that crop,” she simply imposed by an unelected type of chores would be permissible said. “All those things are what is federal bureaucracy. These bureauon their parents’, grandparents’ or so awesome about growing up and cratic farm regulations are inconneighbors’ farm.”  working on a farm.” sistent with the idea of limited, Farmers Chris and Monica CarWalker added that the Federarepresentative government. This roll of Dale County said their chiltion is a strong advocate of on-farm is an important issue in Alabama, dren, Brittany, 12, and Blake, 11, safety for all age groups and conand our state’s farmers have a right have worked on their family farm ducts safety-training workshops to be protected from federal overfor several years. The Carrolls raise across the state. reach.” poultry, beef cattle and timber, and Last year, Labor Secretary Hilda Alabama Farmers Federation grow fruits and vegetables. Monica Solis proposed 85 pages of new National Legislative Programs said the work is appropriate for rules that would directly impede on Director Mitt Walker echoed Sestheir children’s ages. the lives and livelihoods of Amersions’ sentiments of protecting the “We don’t do anything to ica’s family farmers by prohibiting rights of Alabama’s farmers. put our children in danger,” said youth from engaging in a wide array “The Alabama Farmers FederaMonica. “Especially in the produce of traditional farm activities. tion supports Sens. Sessions and business, our children have learned These DOL rules would impose Shelby in their efforts to block this that farming is hard work, but it new restrictions on the handling of overly intrusive rule that imposes has its rewards, too.” farm animals; common livestock more regulations on the farmer, Monica said working on the practices such as vaccinating and which are simply not justified,” farm teaches children math, scihoof trimming; operating farm said Walker. “Farming has always ence, reading and social skills. It machinery; completing tasks at been a family business where kids also teaches them patience and elevations over six feet high and learn the values of responsibility, responsibility, she added. working at stockyards and grain animal care, leadership and honest “When we plant a crop, they and feed facilities. n work. This rule, to some degree, know it can take months to

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M AY 2 0 1 2

Building Dedicated At Belle Mina Experiment Farm By Jeff Helms

esearchers and Extension System specialists who serve Alabama farmers now have a modern, efficient place to work thanks to the new Alabama Farmers Federation Administrative Building at the Tennessee Valley Research and Experiment Center. The building was dedicated April 6 in Belle Mina. Federation President Jerry Newby said the organization is proud to support the facility because the work done at the experiment center provides an immediate return for the farmers who Federation and Auburn University leaders cut the ribbon on the new Alabama Farmers Federation utilize the research. Administrative Building at the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center April 6 in Belle Mina. From “I’ve always been an left are Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan, Federation Board Member Ted Grantland, Federation advocate for supporting and Alfa President Jerry Newby, Research and Extension Director Chet Norris, Auburn University College of Agriculture Dean William Batchelor, Director of Outlying Units Jim Bannon and Alabama Cooperative facilities and projects that Extension System Director Gary Lemme. would help our farmers be more successful on their farms,” Newby said. The research center at Belle agricultural experiments on everytive building is a great example of Mina has been serving the farmers thing from grain crops and soybeans how researchers, farmers and the of Alabama for more than 80 years. to cattle and ornamentals. Extension System work together to The center’s work is vitally imporAuburn University College of benefit Alabama agriculture. tant to the health of the agriculAgriculture Dean William Batch“Even though we are here to celtural community in the Tennessee elor said a report will soon be ebrate the new building, it’s really Valley, Newby added. released showing that precision a reflection of the relationship that “The addition of this facility agriculture research done at Belle exists here in the Tennessee Valley will help sustain agriculture in this Mina and other experiment stabetween the experiment station, area and throughout the state as tions in Alabama has generated the Extension Service, producers this center continues its mission to $30 million for the state’s farmers. and the Alabama Farmers Federaimprove the profitability of farmThat kind of result, he added, is the tion,” Lemme told local farmers ers,” Newby said. mission of Alabama’s land grant gathered for the event. “Research The new 4,000-square-foot facil- universities. takes money and converts it to ity includes 12 offices and a small “We’ve got to be relevant; we’ve knowledge. The Extension Service conference room with video confer- got to be serving the needs of our takes that knowledge and transfers encing capabilities. It was funded stakeholders – of our farmers and it back into money through your with annual donations totaling $1 agribusiness industry – in order to activities and through education.” million from the Federation since get support back for all that we do,” During the ribbon-cutting cer2007. said Batchelor. emony, a plaque was presented to Established in 1927, the Tennes“There’s no way on earth this W.B. “Dub” Webster, who served see Valley Research and Extension (building) would have happened as the center’s superintendent from Center is nationally recognized for without the support of Alfa,” he 1977 to 1995. The plaque, which its long-running cotton programs, added. honors Webster for his service and but it also is a leader in precision Gary Lemme, director of the cooperative spirit in support of Alaagriculture and irrigation research. Alabama Cooperative Extension bama agriculture, will be placed in Last year, the center conducted 95 System, said the new administrathe new administrative building. n

M AY 2 0 1 2

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Alfa Insurance Camera Network Keeps A Live Eye On The Weather By Mary Johnson

surface observation station. Those readings help create a full picture for our viewers.” The Alfa Insurance Camera Network is used daily in 11 different television markets. The camera coverage becomes even more important during severe weather outbreaks, of which Alabama has seen its fair share in the past year. “We’ve learned that having a visual is important for a person’s decision-making process, no matter where that individual may live,” Kinkade said. “If we can show the storms, we can give viewers an idea of what to expect and push them to seek shelter.” After last year’s April 27 tornado outbreak, WAKA Chief Meteorologist Ashley McDonald said she is convinced the footage from the Alfa cameras saved lives. “It certainly makes it more real to our viewers and to us here in the newsroom,” McDonald said. “When you can actually see a tornado coming to your area, you know you need to go to a safe place.” Marlene Hall, media director of Alfa Insurance, says Alfa sponsors the camera network because it is an important service for the communities and people of Alabama. “The camera network partnership with television stations is just another way Alfa Insurance is involved in the communities we serve,” Hall said. “There are few things that impact more lives every day than weather. The cameras make what is happening more real. With the severity of the storm before them, viewers are more likely to take shelter and save their Georgia lives.” n

ew things affect the everyday life of Alabamians more than the weather, and footage provided by the Alfa Insurance Camera Network gives TV viewers an important element in planning their day. The Alfa Camera Network currently spans three states, with 96 cameras providing coverage for all of Alabama, most of Mississippi and parts of Georgia. Two additional cameras under construction in Georgia will cover the Albany and Macon areas. Rich Thomas, chief meteorologist for WSFA-TV in Montgomery, says nothing can replace the images provided by the Alfa Insurance Camera Network. “Radar and satellite imagery are great resources, but there’s no comparison to actually seeing the weather as it happens,” Thomas said. “The cameras allow us to see the sun shining on a good day, but also see hail, heavy rain, intense lightning and strong winds on bad weather days. That’s what makes it all come alive.” Derek Kinkade, chief meteorologist at WTVM-TV in Columbus, Ga., forecasts for east Alabama and west Georgia and said the weather information collected at the camera sites is another valuable forecasting tool. “It’s important for meteorologists to know the surface conditions in different areas,” Kinkade said. “The camera weather stations provide local temperatures and wind speeds in areas where there might not be a

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M AY 2 0 1 2

Alfa Insurance Offers $10,000 Reward To Deter Metal Theft

lfa Insurance is offering an additional $10,000 reward for information leading to a conviction for the theft of copper and other metal from poultry houses, farm irrigation systems and other property in Alabama covered by an Alfa Insurance policy. Alabama Farmers Federation members already benefit from a $1,000 reward for theft from their property. “The theft of copper wiring and other valuable metal is growing, especially in our rural communities,” said Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jerry Newby. “Criminals who commit these acts cost our policyholders money, and they often do thousands of dollars in damage to property and cripple the equipment and buildings farmers depend on for their livelihoods.” The $10,000 reward will be paid

to the first person that furnishes information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person or persons involved in the theft of copper or other metal taken from property in Alabama covered by an Alfa Insurance policy. Alfa Insurance is the leading insurer of farms in the state. In recent years, dozens of farmers and other rural residents have reported property damage related to copper theft. Anyone with information related to the theft of copper is encouraged to contact local law enforcement officials. In the last few years, Alabama has strengthened penalties for metal theft. The Federation is currently supporting a bill in the Alabama Legislature that would further deter metal theft by requiring buyers of scrap metal to collect additional information about the seller. n

Irrigation systems are prime targets for copper thieves.

M AY 2 0 1 2

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West Alabama Plant Taps Timber As Renewable Energy Source By Miranda Mattheis

he Westervelt Co. is bringing new energy to the small town of Aliceville, located in west Alabama near the Tennessee-Tombigee Waterway. Westervelt Renewable Energy is in the construction phase of a new wood pellet production facility that is slated to be complete by the end of the year. The new plant also could give a boost to the state’s forestry industry. “We are in the construction phase and once all of that is in place, then we have to go through several tests before it is cleared for production,” said Westervelt Marketing Manager Robby Johnson. “That’s where we hope to be by the end of the year.” The plant, which is located on 104 acres of land, will have the capacity to produce about 280,000 metric tons of wood pellets per year. The pellets can be burned

as an alternative source of energy and those from the Aliceville plant will be used by utility providers in Europe as a substitute for coal. The materials used to make the pellets are readily available here, and there is a great demand for the product in Europe, Johnson said. Rick Oates, director of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Forestry, Wildlife and Catfish Divisions, said that as the traditional market for timber continues to change, landowners will need to explore alternative markets. “Facilities like Westervelt’s new pellet mill certainly will provide new opportunities for landowners to sell their timber and help meet the growing need for clean, renewable sources of energy,” Oates said. Westervelt will produce the pellets from Southern yellow pine material, primarily from the company’s land located across the river from Westervelt Lodge, a whitetail deer, turkey and quail hunting

lodge in Aliceville. “Our pellet production facility in Aliceville is a large component of our renewable energy business, which utilizes biomass as an alternative fuel source,” Johnson said. “As a land resource organization, we are excited about the future, and how products from our dualcertified forests will contribute to the global reduction of fossil-fuel dependency.” Two certifications are required for forests to be labeled as dualcertified. “We are certified by Forest Stewardship Council and Sustainable Forestry Initiative,” Johnson said. “We are the only organization in Alabama to have earned both certifications.” The wood pellet plant is expected to create approximately 110 new jobs, Johnson said. Westervelt named Ed Gaughan as plant manager. He is a native of Chicago and brings a background in operations management and engineering. As manager, he will spend most of 2012 as part of a project management team working to ensure a successful upstart in the last quarter of the year, as well as ongoing operations management to ensure production and quality goals. Westervelt, headquartered in Tuscaloosa, Ala., is a leader in sustainable forest management and conservation practices. n

Plans for the wood pellet plant in Aliceville show the new facility built alongside the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway.

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M AY 2 0 1 2

Jason Powell Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod Committee Chairman

Jason Powell utilizes traditional gardening tools on his farm in Chilton County, but it’s his “green thumb” that made him successful. Powell, 42, operates Petals from the Past alongside his wife, Shelley, and his parents, Gwen and Arlie. He is chairman of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s State Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod Committee and treasurer of the Alabama Landscape and Nursery Association. His farm specializes in antique roses, heirloom shrubs and hard-to-find perennial flowers and herbs. Powell said the best part of owning a nursery is inspiring gardeners. “I’m proud I’ve been able to display gardens that have inspired people to plant their own shrubs, trees and old garden roses,” he said. Powell and his wife are members of Collins Chapel Baptist Church. They have a daughter, Cory, 14, and a son, Walker, 12.

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Research Reaps Plenty For Peanut Producers By Teresa Wilson

he Alabama Peanut Producers Association (APPA) is putting its money where its peanuts

are. APPA allocated $150,000 to enhance peanut research opportunities at Auburn University, an amount that represents 20 percent of its overall budget. APPA Executive Director Randy Griggs said helping farmers enhance productiv-

pathology and on-farm demonstrations. An additional $50,000 is earmarked to support the peanut breeding program and funding for a staff member in that department. The peanut breeding program is a collaborative effort between Auburn University, the National Peanut Research Lab and USDA’s Agricultural Research Services. Earlier this year, the APPA board allocated $20,000 to purchase new equipment for the Gulf Coast

“Having up-to-date equipment is very important – not just on the farm, but at the experiment stations, too.” — Kris Balkcom ity is crucial to the state’s economy and the farmers’ future. “We feel it is very important to provide growers with as much information as possible,” said Griggs. “Growers rely heavily on test results when making decisions about their crops.” According to Griggs, $80,000 of the funding to Auburn is geared toward maintaining basic research programs that include agronomy,

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Research and Extension Center in Fairhope and the Wiregrass Research and Extension Center in Headland. Kris Balkcom, Agronomy and Soils Research Associate III with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, said the new equipment was a welcome addition to the research system. “Having up-to-date equipment is very important – not just on the

farm, but at the experiment stations, too,” said Balkcom. “It has been quite some time since we have actually had newer equipment.” Griggs echoed Balkcom’s emphasis on new equipment, noting that research findings are generally more accurate with modern instruments. “With planting season just around the corner, farmers are currently reviewing the outcome of last year’s peanut research and selecting methods that have worked in the past,” said Griggs. “Alabama farmers pride themselves on growing the best quality peanuts in the world, and thanks in part to research studies, consumers are more than happy to purchase Alabama peanuts.” In addition to the APPA’s investment in Auburn, the National Peanut Board provided the university with $100,000 for additional peanut studies. For more information, contact Teresa Wilson with the APPA at twilson@alpeanuts.com. n

M AY 2 0 1 2

Alabama Farmers Federation 2012 Cajun Beef Tour Contact: Nate Jaeger Phone: 334-613-4221 email: NJaeger@AlfaFarmers.org Six-day bus tour leaves Montgomery and includes visits to several types of beef cattle farms in Louisiana, plus a stop at the Louisiana State Fair, rodeo and concert. Seating is limited, register early.

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white flowers or silvery foliage to catch the moonlight. Another bonus is that a number of night-blooming plants have a wonderful fragrance. Several ideal ones are listed below. Moonflowers. These 6-inch trumpet flowers unfurl in slow motion every evening. Pure white with faint green tracings, the blossoms are fragrant all night; by noon, they dwindle into the dense foliage. When my children were small they came running into the house late one afternoon to tell me about the hummingbird on the rail of the porch. It was instead a giant hawk moth, a pollinator attracted to moonvine flowers at night. Spending time among the flowers in the evening is an introduction to nature’s nightlife. They are easy to start from seed, but soak the hard seeds overnight before planting. Sweet-scented nicotianas. These have creamy-white flowers that grow on softly draping branches. The 2- to 3-inch trumpet-shaped blooms fill the air with a jasmine-like scent in late afternoon. One of the easiest to grow from seed is the giant flowering tobacco, or (Nicotiana alata), which can get 4-to 5-feet tall in bloom. Fragrant hosta. The white, waxy, trumpet-shaped flowers appear on 30-inch flower stalks; each is 5 inches long and 3 inches wide. Not all hostas are scented, but four with easy names to recall include Royal Standard, Honeybells, Fragrant Bouquet and Sweet Susan. Summer phlox. Phlox paniculata is a 2-to 3-foot tall phlox that blooms in late spring and summer. Read the labels to look for mildew-resistant varieties such as David. Lilies. If you still have Easter lilies sitting around in pots, plant them in a flower bed where they will add to the white in the garden late next spring (after Easter). While it’s too late to find bulbs, an alternative is potted white lilies for Mother’s Day that will also make good garden plants. Here are a few white possibilities for nighttime viewing: Shrubs: gardenia, G.G. Gerbing azaleas, althea, Iceberg rose, oakleaf hydrangea, Annabelle and other white hydrangeas and snowball viburnum. Trees: Southern magnolia and dogwood. Annuals and perennials: impatiens, caladium, cosmos, petunia, Shasta daisy, hollyhock, cleome and mums. Other features such as wall fountains, bridges, benches, and moondials can give a moon garden that little extra in the night and the day. Remember a strong fan to blow away mosquitoes. n

By Lois Chaplin

s the sun drops and the landscape darkens, is anything glimmering in your moonlit garden? If not, maybe it’s time to consider what can be added to the garden. There are plants that glimmer at night, adding a new dimension to patios and decks. Besides a good, strong fan to blow away mosquitoes, a glimmering landscape can make the evenings a lot nicer. What could be more soothing at the end of a long day than a fragrant, luminous garden in the moonlight or landscape lighting? Each year, thousands of tourists are attracted to the white gardens of Sissinghurst in England. With a little planning, the same ideas can be adapted in Alabama, too. Silvery foliage and white and pale pastel flowers reflect light at night, turning a garden into a different experience after dark. Plants used in moon gardens have one or more of the following characteristics: evening blooms and

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

GET GROWING AT THE CO-OP. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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A Honey of a Salad ¼ cup red wine vinegar ¼ cup pure honey 2 tablespoons olive oil ¼ teaspoon sea salt Freshly cracked pepper 6 cups washed salad greens, preferably mix of romaine and butter lettuce 1 cup washed and sliced fresh strawberries 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained well Crumbled feta or goat cheese to taste 2 to 3 tablespoons chopped pecans

In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt and pepper. On salad plates, arrange lettuces, then fruit, pecans and cheese. Drizzle dressing evenly over salads. Yield: 6 salads. By Kellie Henderson

where. “We made them up ourselves or tailored them to suit us,” she explains, with the exception of her friend Chris’s Easy Cake recipe. Many of her recipes feature the ingredients their own farm yields, like fresh lettuce, honey and stoneground grits, cornmeal and flour.

“

e’re involved in a lot of things, but most all of them are related to agriculture,” Patty Lambrecht says about herself and her husband, Joe, owners of Oakview Farms Granary in Elmore County. “We started the farm in 1998 when we acquired the grist mill, and since then it seems the more we do with organizations like the Farmers Federation, the more we get excited about different things,” Patty explains. From their first bags of stoneground grits and cornmeal in the late ‘90s, the Lambrechts have diversified their farm to include hydroponic lettuce, raw honey and U-pick blueberry fields, as well as other seasonal produce. But one thing Patty said hasn’t changed is her commitment to offering consumers the very best food she can. “I take a serious interest in food safety and quality. It seems everything is so expensive these days, so anytime you can improve the quality and safety of food and provide it at a reasonable price, I think that’s

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Chris’s Easy Cake

a good thing,” she said. Patty’s passion for food also extends to the kitchen, where she said she has always been at ease. “I cook an awful lot and have always loved to cook, but especially now that I have my granddaughter Kristen (age 11) to help me. We get in the kitchen in the afternoons and cook up a storm. I feel very comfortable when I’m cooking,” said Patty. Patty went on to say the recipes she shares in this month’s Country Kitchen are her creations or adaptations of dishes she tasted else28

1 box butter flavor cake mix 1 cup vegetable oil 1 small box instant chocolate pudding 1 tablespoon pure vanilla 4 eggs ¼ cup water 1 8-ounce carton sour cream 1 6-ounce bag semi-sweet chocolate chips, or more to taste

Preheat oven to 325 F. Grease and lightly flour a Bundt pan. Mix cake mix, oil, pudding, vanilla, eggs, and water until smooth and well blended. Stir in sour cream and chocolate chips. Bake approximately 1 hour or until done. Cool on rack 10–15 minutes before removing from pan. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired. M AY 2 0 1 2

Shrimp Jambalaya 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced ¼ pound thick cut bacon, cut into small pieces 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped 1 stalk celery, finely chopped 1 bell pepper, finely chopped Chopped hot peppers to taste Red pepper flakes to taste 2 – 3 bay leaves ½ teaspoon dried thyme 2 teaspoons parsley flakes 1 pound diced tomatoes 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste ½ cup water Salt and pepper to taste 2 pounds cleaned, deveined uncooked shrimp 2-3 cups cooked long grain rice

In large pot, sauté the sausage and bacon. Drain meat, put aside. Remove drippings from pan, add olive oil and sauté garlic, onion, celery, and peppers. Add pepper flakes, bay leaves, thyme, parsley, tomatoes, tomato paste, water, and salt and pepper. Stir well and bring to low boil. Add sausage, bacon and cleaned shrimp. Cook over low to medium heat about 20-30 minutes. To serve, toss cooked rice and shrimp mixture together. Even better reheated the next day. Oakview Farms Moist Cornbread Vegetable shortening 1 ¾ cup stone ground cornmeal ¾ cup unbleached all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon sea salt Cracked pepper to taste 4 teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1 stick unsalted butter, melted 1 ¾ cup buttermilk

Preheat oven to 400 F. Grease cast iron skillet with shortening and heat in oven. In large bowl, blend dry ingredients together. Add eggs, butter and buttermilk and stir just until smooth. Don’t over beat. Pour mixture into hot skillet and bake 25-28 minutes, or until golden brown.

Easy Cheese Ball 2 (8-ounce) packages reduced-fat cream cheese 1 package Ranch dressing mix ½-pound cooked bacon, crumbled Chopped pecans

Soften the cream cheese until room temperature. In large bowl (or use your food processor) blend the cheese and dressing until well incorporated. Stir in the bacon, then shape mixture into a ball. Chill in refrigerator at least 2 hours. Before serving, roll ball in chopped pecans. Whole Wheat Banana Nut Bread 1 stick butter 1 cup sugar (white or light brown) 2 eggs 3 ripe bananas, mashed 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 cups stone ground whole wheat flour 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a 9-x5-inch loaf pan. In medium bowl, cream butter and sugar, then add eggs, bananas, and vanilla. In large bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda and salt. Blend the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until mixed well. Add in nuts. Pour into loaf pan and bake approximately 60 minutes. Turn out of pan to cool completely for better slicing or enjoy warm. Blueberry Crunch 1 (15-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained 3 cups fresh or frozen blueberries ¾ cup sugar 1 box butter cake mix 1 stick butter, melted ¼ cup sugar 1 cup chopped pecans

Butter a 3-quart baking dish. Place ingredients in prepared dish in order listed. Bake at 350 F for 50–55 minutes, or until crust is brown. When cool, cut into squares and serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped topping.

Garlic Cheese Grits Casserole 1 cup stone ground grits 4 cups water ½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste ¼ cup (½ stick) butter 2 cups grated cheddar cheese ½ cup chicken broth (or milk) 2 eggs, lightly beaten 2 cloves garlic, minced ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

In heavy pan, add stone ground grits, water, and salt. Stir and bring to low boil. Reduce heat and cook approximately 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently so grits do not stick. Preheat oven to 350 F and spray large casserole dish with nonstick spray. To cooked grits, add remaining ingredients and stir until cheese is melted. Pour mixture into greased dish and bake approximately 50 minutes to one hour. Serve immediately. Serves 4 to 6. Our Cream of Broccoli Soup 1 tablespoon butter ½ onion, finely chopped ½ red or yellow bell pepper, finely chopped 1 (4-ounce) jar pimentos, drained well 1 cup chopped fresh broccoli florets ¼ teaspoon white pepper ¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning 1/8 teaspoon seasoned salt 1 cup chicken stock 4 cups milk Velveeta cheese to taste 4 slices cooked and crumbled bacon ¼ cup white wine 2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

In a small pan, melt butter and sauté onion, bell pepper, pimento and broccoli until tender. Set aside. In the top of a double boiler, combine seasonings with chicken stock and milk. Once milk mixture is heated through, add vegetables and Velveeta as desired. Stir in bacon, wine and fresh parsley just before serving. Serves 4-6. n

Editor’s Note: Recipes published in the “Country Kitchen” are not kitchen-tested prior to publication. Visit www.AlfaFarmers.org for more recipes. M AY 2 0 1 2

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