NEIGHBORS MAGAZINE, MAY 2016 by Alabama Farmers Federation

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VOLUME 41,

NUMBER 5

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

May 2016

_____________________________________

Debra Davis, Editor Mike Moody, Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan, Executive Director Jeff Helms, Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell, President, Stanton Rex Vaughn, Vice President/North, Huntsville Dean Wysner, Vice President/Central, Woodland George Jeffcoat, Vice President/Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper, Vice President/Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn, Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn, Hillsboro Paul Looney, Athens Phillip Thompson, Scottsboro Rickey Cornutt, Boaz Joe Roberts, Fayette Dell Hill, Alpine Joe Lambrecht, Wetumpka Dan Robertson, Uniontown Garry Henry, Hope Hull Steve Stroud, Goshen Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Fred Helms, Dothan Regina Carnes, Boaz Lance Miller, Snead

In This Issue

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

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Farm-City Awards

Planting Intentions

18 Ranching In Retirement

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14 Seeking Bama’s Best Catfish

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Alabama Farm Of Distinction

12 Junior Beef Expo

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

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.

21 Getting Students Job-Ready 28 Country Kitchen

On The Cover 28

Like many farmers across the state, Colt Clemmons of Lauderdale County is busy with spring planting. Photo by Debra Davis

Misconceptions About Agriculture

MYTH: There’s no future in agriculture. in agriculture and natural resources FACT: Careers are high paying, with average starting salaries of $51,220. Currently, there’s a shortage of applicants in those fields. 3

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Cleburne County Beef Producer Named Alabama Farm Of Distinction

ne of the nation’s leading producers of SimmentalAngus beef cattle, Gibbs Farms of Cleburne County was named Alabama’s 2016 Farm of Distinction during the Alabama Farm-City Awards April 7 in Birmingham. “I want everybody to know we’re real and know we’re trying hard to be as good as we can be,” said Doug Gibbs, who manages the day-to-day operation of the farm owned by his parents Wendell and Nan. “Any cattle I place in a customer’s pasture I want to know they’re 100 percent successful.” As this year’s winner, Gibbs Farms received more than $12,000 in cash and prizes and will represent Alabama in the Gibbs Farms in Cleburne County was named the 2016 Alabama Farm of Distinction during the Alabama Farm-City Awards Luncheon April 7 in Birmingham. Seated are Nan and Wendell Gibbs. Swisher Sweets / Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year Standing, from left, are Farm of Distinction sponsors Jim Allen of Alabama Farmers Cooperative, Tom Tribble of John Deere, Kenneth Williams of Snead Ag Supply, Lester Killebrew of SunSouth, Jay Hamlett contest at the Sunbelt Ag Expo and Lynne Morton of TriGreen and Jimmy Parnell of Alabama Farmers Federation. Oct. 18-20. Alabama Farm-City Committee received a John Deere Gator from major breeding companies and sells Chairman Jeff Helms said the Farm SunSouth, TriGreen and Snead Ag semen from 13 others. of Distinction contest recognizes dealers; a $1,000 gift certificate “We’ve been blessed,” Doug family farming businesses that from Alabama Farmers Cooperative Gibbs said. “If we can help preserve excel in production, management, (AFC); $2,500 from Swisher Interour heritage and our industry and stewardship and innovation. national and an engraved farm sign put a good face on agriculture, we “This was the 30th year we’ve from Alabama Farmers Federation are all about that. Anybody who honored an exceptional agricultural and Alfa Insurance. wants to get in the cattle business operation with the Farm of DisFounded in 1961 by Wendell has an open invitation to come here tinction award,” Helms said. “The and Nan Gibbs, the farm began as and get anything from Gibbs Farms. list of recipients includes some of a small poultry and commercial We’re all about helping.” the finbeef operation. Wendell Gibbs is past president est farms Today, Gibbs of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Associin the Farms spans ation and Beef Cattle Improvement Southeast, three states and Association. The Gibbses have owned by includes 750 three children, 10 grandchildren families acres of owned and 2 great grandchildren. They who are land and more are members of Macedonia Baptist among than 1,000 Church. Alabama’s acres of leased Gibbs Farms was selected for greatest and rented pasthe award from a field of six finalagricultural ture. Each year, ists that included Tate Farms of leaders. the Gibbs famMadison County, Trantham Farms Gibbs Farms is one of the most ily markets close to 500 Sim-Anof Calhoun County, Hollingsworth respected producers of Sim-Angus gus bulls and heifers through its Farms of Hale County, Richardson breeding stock in the country, and state-of-the-art sale barn and ships Farms of Washington County and we’re proud to have the family reptwo or three 50,000-pound loads Stroud Farm of Pike County. Finalresenting Alabama at Sunbelt.” of feeder cattle to Kansas. In addiists received a $250 gift certificate Alabama’s Farm of Distinction tion, the farm has 26 bulls leased to from AFC. n

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Creativity Highlighted At Alabama 2016 Farm-City Awards

udding artists, writers and video editors from Cullman, Dale, Clarke and Marshall counties won top awards in the Alabama Farm-City Committee poster, essay and multimedia contests April 7 in Birmingham. “The winning entries represent hundreds of students across the state who learned about the importance of agriculture and forestry while creating posters, researching essays and editing video presentations,” said Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms. “These young people qualified for state awards by winning county contests last fall. Each entry features our 2015 theme of ‘Agriculture: Sustaining Future Generations.’” Mattie Wix of Good Hope Elementary School in Cullman County won first place in the kindergarten through third-grade division of the poster contest, while Dwayne Riley of Ariton Elementary School in Dale County, took top honors among fourth- to sixth-graders. Each won $200, as did their schools. Cash awards for all contests were sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Cooperative. Second-place poster winners and their schools received $100. They were third-grader Aubrey Bedwell of Southside Elementary School in Etowah County and fifth-grader Rintik Setiawan of Eufaula Elementary School in Barbour County. The posters of 10 additional students were selected to appear in the 2017 Farm-City Calendar. These honorable mention winners each received $50. They were Anna Westbrook of Marengo Academy in Marengo County, Arial Corbin of Loxley Elementary School in Baldwin County, Carson Smith of Good Hope Elementary School in Cullman County, Dylan Palmer of Ashville Elementary School in St. Clair County, Josie Beth Riddle of Addison Elementary School in Winston County, Kaleb Giles of Leroy High School in Washington M ay 2 0 1 6

Winners in poster, essay and multimedia Farm-City contests were honored during the FarmCity Awards Luncheon April 7 in Birmingham. From left are Jim Allen of Alabama Farmers Cooperative; Kaleigh Backstrom of Marshall County, first place multimedia; Mattie Wix of Cullman County, first place kindergarten-third-grade poster; Dwayne Riley of Dale County, first place fourth-sixth-grade poster; Hannah Edwards of Dale County, first place seventh-ninth-grade essay; and Victoria Hodge of Clarke County, first place 10th-12th grade essay; and Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms.

County, Kilah Fry of Moundville Elementary School in Hale County, Meagan Moore of Fayette Middle School in Fayette County, Nadia Choi of Redland Elementary School in Elmore County and Parker Price of Sulligent Elementary School in Lamar County. In the essay contest, Hannah Edwards of George W. Long High School in Dale County took top honors in the seventh- through ninth-grade division, and Victoria Hodge of Clarke Preparatory School in Clarke County won for 10ththrough 12th-graders. Addy Stringfellow of Alma Bryant High School in Mobile County placed second in the seventh- through ninth-grade division, while Laurin Bell of Hope Christian School in Shelby County placed second among older students. Essay contest winners and their schools received $300, while secondplace entries took home $200, as did their schools. The multimedia contest was 5

open to students in ninth through 12th grades. Taking top honors was Kaleigh Backstrom of The Way Home Christian School in Marshall County. Second place went to Victor Nguyen of Wetumpka High School in Elmore County. The first-place winner and school received $300, and second-place winner and school received $200. Backstrom’s winning video can be viewed on the Federation’s YouTube channel. The awards luncheon was held in conjunction with the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Women’s Leadership Conference. During the Alabama Farm-City Awards, county adult volunteers also were recognized for outstanding Farm-City activities, and Alabama’s 2016 Farm of Distinction was named. Photos from the awards luncheon are available at flickr.com/ AlabamaFarmers. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Cullman County Takes Top Honors At Farm-City Awards

ullman County farmers, business owners and community leaders earned the title of Overall Best Farm-City Committee in Alabama during the Farm-City Awards Luncheon April 7 in Birmingham. It was Cullman County’s fourth consecutive year to win the top award. The group also received trophies for Best Special Activities and Best FarmCity Committee for Division 1, which includes counties with populations of more than 35,600. “Cullman County Farm-City Committee members invested more than 9,000 hours in activities including a Farm-To-Fork Dinner that treated 200 guests to a locally grown meal prepared by top chefs,” said Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms. “In addition to events held during Farm-City Week, the county also commemorated National Ag Day by involving local students in an effort to bag 8,000 pounds of donated sweet potatoes for hungry families.” Division 1 runner-up Houston County won awards for Best Media Coverage and Proclamation as well as the Target Award for incorporating the theme of “Agriculture: Sustaining Future Generations” into all activities. Other Division 1 winners were Lee County, Best Farm-City Tour; Montgomery County, Scrapbook Award; Colbert County, Innovative Idea Award and Best Civic Club Activities; and Coffee County, Best Farm-City Dinner. Pike County was named Best Farm-City Committee in Division 2, which includes counties with populations of 35,600 and less. Pike County also won division awards for Best Farm-City Tour and Scrapbook. “Pike County hosted four tours including a visit to the Goshen High School Agricultural Science and Technical Academy, a Farm Day for third-graders at Cattlemen’s Park, a five-stop ag tour for Leadership Pike County and Classroom in the Forest for fifth-graders,” Helms said. Runner-up in Division 2 was Lawrence County, which also received plaques for Best Special Activities and the Target Award. Other Division 2 winners were Chambers County, Innovative Idea Award; Fayette County, Best Farm-City Dinner; Randolph County, Best Media Coverage and Proclamation; and Geneva County, Best Civic Club Activities. Gloria Jeffcoat of Houston County was named 2015 Volunteer of the Year for more than 20 years of service to the Houston County Farm-City Committee. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Above, Cullman County won the Overall Best Farm-City Committee Award for the fourth straight year. From left are Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms and Cullman County Farm-City Committee Co-Chairmen Doris Patterson and Denise Schuman. Left, Helms presents awards to Pike County Farm-City Chairman Randy Hale. Pike County won Best Farm-City Committee for counties with populations 35,600 or less.

“Each fall, Gloria can be found delivering coloring books; poster and essay contest forms; and bookmarks to Houston County’s 29 schools,” Helms said. “As a farmer and former school teacher, Gloria has a passion for agriculture and educating others about production of our food and fiber.” This year the Alabama Farm-City Committee presented its inaugural Service Award to David Farnsworth, Area 4 organization director with the Alabama Farmers Federation. “Although Farm-City is part of his job responsibilities, David goes beyond the call of duty in promoting the Farm-City mission,” Helms said. “He has inspired more than a dozen counties to revitalize Farm-City programs and works to secure local sponsorships that motivate teachers and students to participate in the Farm-City poster, essay and multimedia contests.” Farm-City Week is celebrated the week before Thanksgiving each year as a way to foster cooperation and understanding among farmers, consumers, businesses and elected officials. Farm-City committees also lead local observances of National Ag Day, celebrated in March each year. For more information, visit AlabamaFarmCity.org. n 6

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Alabama Corn, Cotton Acreage Expected To Increase In 2016 By Mary Johnson and Debra Davis

helps during rough years. “A lot of years we have four or five ways to make ore acres of corn and cotton are expected in money because of different crops and livestock,” he Alabama this year, and there’ll be fewer soysaid. “That way, we don’t lose it all from one bad crop. beans and peanuts planted, according to the U.S. It helps spread the risk.” Department of Agriculture (USDA) Prospective PlantAlabama farmers are expected to plant 470,000 ings report. acres of soybeans, a 6-percent decrease from last year’s Corn will see the greatest increase — 31 percent 500,000 acres. — from 260,000 acres in 2015 to 340,000 in 2016. A For 32-year-old Colt Clemmons of Lauderdale modest 2-percent increase County, deciding what to in cotton acreage is plant is more complicated. anticipated, from 315,000 Clemmons, chairman acres last year to 320,000 of the Federation’s State this year, according to the Soybean Committee, said report, which is released his farm grows seed crops. each spring. He has to determine what Carla Hornady with farmers are going to want the Alabama Farmers to plant next year. He and Federation said farmers his father, Jim Clemmons, consider numerous factors grow wheat, oats, rye, when deciding what crops corn, soybeans and sorto plant. ghum on the family farm “The two biggest connear Killen. They partner siderations farmers evaluwith another father-son ate are commodity prices team, Greg and Jordan and crop rotation,” said Hamner, in Clemmons & Hornady, Federation CotHamner Seed, Inc. ton, Soybean and Wheat “We’ll plant more & Feed Grains divisions soybeans this year because director. “Rotating crops it looks like more farmers helps replenish soil nutriare going to double-crop ents and ensures healthier the beans behind wheat,” plants. Commodity prices he said. “But farming is a are important because lot of guess work. There farmers need to know are factors you can’t conthey can make a living off trol: prices, weather and what they’re growing.” the market. I’d say low Prices for corn, soycommodity prices are the beans, cotton and wheat biggest challenge farmers remain low. Hornady said face this year.” farmers may have chosen Peanuts in Alabama Tuscaloosa County farmer John E. Walker said being diversified corn over soybeans this year will see the largest acreage helps reduce his risk. because they are more confidrop this year at 15 percent. dent of a good corn yield, which could make up for the Last year, state farmers planted 200,000 acres, low prices. and they are only expected to plant 170,000 this year. Tuscaloosa County row crop farmer John E. Walker Higher production in recent years has created an oversaid the low prices have most farmers concerned about supply. making a profit. The USDA report showed U.S. farmers expect to “This year, we’re going to plant more of the crop plant 93.6 million acres of corn, up 6 percent from last that we think we will lose the least amount of money year, and 9.56 million acres of cotton, up 11 percent on — it’s just one of those years,” Walker said. “Seed from 2015. prices are high, but fertilizer and fuel prices are Nationally, peanut acreage is expected to decrease cheaper, so that will help.” 9 percent to 1.47 million acres, and soybean acreage is Walker grows corn, soybeans, cotton and wheat and expected to be essentially level at 82.2 million acres. n also has a cow-calf operation. He said being diversified

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Conference Emphasizes Important Role Of Women In Agriculture By Debra Davis

he important role women have in agriculture — the state’s largest industry — was highlighted at the annual Women’s Leadership Conference sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Federation April 6-7 in Birmingham. Nearly 250 members attended the meeting, including Lolita Smith of Sumter County, who said it was her second time to attend the annual event. “I’ve enjoyed all the conference, and it’s nice to attend something completely catered to ladies,” she said. “We learn a lot about agriculture, which we all have a passion for, and it helps make me a better spokesperson for our industry.” The conference began with massage therapy demonstrations, shopping and aluminum pop tab collections from county Women’s Leadership Committees. Blount County topped all counties by turning in 165 pounds of tabs that help raise money for Ronald McDonald Houses in Alabama. Collectively, the group hauled in 737 pounds for the charities. The opening banquet included a welcome and words of gratitude from Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “I know if we want something done in this organization, this is the group to ask,” Parnell said. Farm wife and humorist Susie Oberdahlhoff of Missouri entertained members at the banquet with funny stories about farm life and finding happiness through life’s challenges. Federation Women’s Leadership

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Division Director Kim Ramsey said the annual conference helps emphasize the important Top photo, Federation President Jimmy Parnell greets conference role women play in attendees; below, Ag In The Classroom workshops included farm craft activities and take-home projects and educational materials. agriculture and in the state’s largest farm organization. school director, along with Patricia “Our conference is designed to Barnes, founder of Sister Schubert’s motivate and educate our members Rolls, shared their philanthropic about the influence they have on endeavors and recipes for a successtheir families, their farms and the ful life. future of agriculture,” Ramsey said. A luncheon that day merged The second day of the conferwith the Alabama Farm-City ence began with breakfast, which Awards program, where many included a side order of politics conference attendees were honored with state and national legislafor their roles in county programs. tive updates. Morning workshops The convention ended that evening had programs on sun safety and with a performance by the Samford Alabama Ag In The Classroom University A Cappella Choir. activities. Additionally, Betty Sims, For photos of the conference, a cookbook author and culinary visit the Federation’s Flickr page. n 10

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Victoria Thompson of Lee County was reserve champion in Junior Division Showmanship.

Youth Leadership Showcased At Alabama’s Junior Beef Expo By Debra Davis

t was a big day for beef at the Alabama Junior Beef Expo Showmanship Contest March 19, when more than 150 young people competed at Montgomery’s Garrett Coliseum. Sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Federation, the show was part of the Southeastern Livestock Exposition, which marked its 59th year. Youth activities began Friday with the market steer show and ended Sunday with the heifer show. Showmanship classes drew entries ages 9-19 from throughout the state who were judged on how they exhibited their calves as well as the animals’ fitness and grooming. Many exhibitors work with their calves for months to prepare for the show. Lee County sisters Jewel and Victoria Thompson of Beauregard said while many of their friends are cheerleaders or play sports, they’d rather spend their time fitting and showing cat-

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tle. The two competed in over 30 shows this year and put in a lot of hard work, said their parents, Holli and Phillip Thompson. “We were very blessed at the Junior Beef Expo; they had some big wins,” Holli said of her daughters. “They love what they do, and I hope it shows.” Victoria and Jewel describe their mom as their coach and teacher, but they are quick to point out that they do the actual work. “We feed our cows, groom them and walk them every day,” said Jewel, 13. “We learn a lot of responsibility. It’s also helped give me

more confidence.” Her practice paid off. Jewel was the reserve champion intermediate exhibitor at the Junior Beef Expo. Victoria, 12, weighs only 45 pounds, but she won reserve grand champion in the junior showmanship division with her steer, Twist, who tipped the scales at 1,260 pounds. “He’s just a baby,” she said stroking the red roan Shorthorn calf. “He just follows me around.” It takes a lot of time to get a calf ready for the expo, said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “Participating in the state show is the culmination of months of dedication, hard work and determination by the young people,” he said. “These are some of the most impressive young people in Alabama, and we are proud to support livestock shows, which help them develop leadership skills, work ethic and responsibility.” Jewel Thompson of Lee County gives her heifer named Highway some gentle love prior to a showmanship class. The pair went on to win reserve champion in the Intermediate Division Showmanship.

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Two Chilton County contestants took top honors in the Senior Exhibitor Division. Anna Grace Parnell was the Grand Champion Senior Exhibitor, and Aniston Bolding was Reserve Champion Senior Exhibitor. While Jewel took reserve champion in the Intermediate Division, top honors went to Emma Merriman of Etowah County who was grand champion in the division. Edging out Victoria in the Junior Division was Caden Childers of Morgan County who won Grand Champion. The 2016 Louise Wilson Scholarship Winner was Anna Grace Parnell of Chilton County. The annual award is sponsored by the Alabama CattleWomen’s Association and presented to the highest-placing young woman of the graduating class. Class winners’ photos are on the Federation’s Facebook page and Flickr channel. n M ay 2 0 1 6

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Catfish Challenge Seeks Nominations For Bama’s Best Restaurant By Debra Davis

hether it’s blackened, baked, sautéed or deep-fried, Alabama catfish lovers have the chance to brag about their favorite restaurant that serves the Southern specialty. Alabama Catfish Producers, a division of the Alabama Farmers Federation, is sponsoring the Catfish Restaurant Challenge to recognize delicious catfish dishes. The contest will highlight and reward Alabama restaurants known for serving tasty and nutritious U.S. farmraised catfish. “We’re excited about promoting the wholesome, great-tasting fish grown by American farmers, including many right here in our state,” said Alabama Catfish Producers Chairman Will Pearce of Dallas County. “Most consumers eat catfish in restaurants, and we believe the best restaurants serve only U.S. farm-raised catfish. As a way to recognize those restaurants, we’re asking customers to nominate their favorite restaurant and to tell us why it’s the best in Alabama.” From the nominations, four finalists will be selected for the official Catfish Restaurant Challenge. A team of judges, including an Alabama catfish farmer, will visit the finalists and present each restaurant owner a plaque. While there, the judges will sample the nominated dish as part of the final round of competition. The winner of Alabama’s Best Catfish Restaurant will be announced in August, which is National Catfish Month. According to Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Alliance (ARHA), there are 9,000 restaurants in Alabama, many that serve catfish in a variety of ways. “Catfish is a signature dish for many restaurants in Alabama,” said Mindy Hanan, ARHA president and CEO. “We’re excited about catfish farmers sponsoring a contest to encourage families to enjoy dining at Alabama restaurants.” The contest offers more than bragging rights about great-tasting food. The winning restaurant will receive a trophy, a cash prize and will be featured in Neighbors magazine. The person nominating the winning restaurant also will receive prizes from the Alabama Catfish Producers. Visit AlabamaCatfish.org for a complete list of rules and the nomination form. The deadline for nominations is July 7. n

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Perfecting Pines

Selma SuperTree Nursery Produces Better Trees Through Genetics By Mary Johnson

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labama timberland stretches over 23 million acres, from the hills of Jackson County to the fertile soils of Baldwin and Mobile counties on the Gulf coast. At ArborGen Inc. SuperTree Nursery and Orchards in Dallas County, workers research tree genetics and produce loblolly pine seedlings with a goal of making Alabama timberland even more productive. “The tree improvement process started back in the 1950s, and the technology has progressed quite a bit,” said Larry Foster, ArborGen Nursery and Seed Orchard manager. “ArborGen has pioneered a lot of this work. We produce faster-growing, higher-quality trees which results in more wood on less land.” ArborGen uses numerous methods for improving genetics including grafting, replication and mass control pollination, where pine cones are manually pollinated to know the traits of a seed’s mother and father trees. The Dallas County nursery was built in 1974 with capacity to grow 15 million seedlings. Since 2008, it has produced about 27 million seedlings a year. It takes about 30 years for a seedling to reach full maturity and be harvested. Through three generations of timber production, ArborGen has used genetics to promote favorable tree qualities including fast growth, straightness, disease-resistance and lack of forks. Harvested timber is graded, with higher profit potential for trees that can be used as saw logs or poles. A forked tree could downgrade the timber’s worth to pulpwood. Douglas Ziebach of Monroe County owns 2,800 acres of timberland in the Ziebach and Webb Timber Co., and he manages another 3,000 acres of private timberland. He said he’s been an ArborGen customer for around 20 years. “The tree quality is probably the best of any trees we look at,” Ziebach said. “The diameter of the tree doesn’t taper much, which means the trees are more likely to be a pole or saw log. You get a lot of yield out of those trees.” Improving genetics starts by graftM ay 2 0 1 6

ArborGen. Inc. SuperTree Nursery and Orchards produces about 27 million seedlings a year at its Dallas County facility.

ing trees with favorable qualities for the seed orchards. Grafted trees are planted, pruned and fertilized in the orchard. It takes six years for a tree to provide a seed crop. Cones are hand-picked from trees when they are still green; stored to allow for ripening; and sent to a seed extractor. Collected seeds are shipped back to ArborGen for spring planting. Foster said raising seedlings is similar to raising row crops. The land is prepared and planted with seeds in the spring; the crop is cared for with irrigation, fertilization and weed control through fall; and seedlings are harvested, or lifted,

in mid-November through February. “Lifting is a very gentle process,” Foster said. “We want to preserve as many roots as possible and keep them from drying out.” Seedlings are boxed and kept in coolers at 34 to 36 F until customers pick them up. ArborGen sells directly to customers ranging from individual landowners to timber investment management organizations. While Alabama already ranks third in forestland in the U.S. and

forestry is the state’s largest agricultural sector, Foster said improved pine genetics will help grow the industry further. He said he hopes people understand forestry is a renewable resource because landowners replant trees after harvests. “Not everyone wants to cut trees down, but they’re converted into useful products people need,” he said. “So many people don’t really know where paper and wood products come from. They think paper comes from Office Depot and lumber comes from Lowe’s, but all these things start with trees and seedlings.” ArborGen Inc. is an international company, headquartered in South Carolina, with other U.S. locations and research and production facilities in Brazil, Australia and New Zealand. For more information, visit ArborGen.com. n ArborGen Nursery and Seed Orchard Manager Larry Foster, left, talks to Federation members who toured the nursery last summer.

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Sandra and Steve James watch cattle on their farm in Colbert County near Sheffield.

Cattle Farm Fulfills Retirement Dream For Colbert County Couple By Debra Davis

teve and Sandra James put their hopes of owning a beef cattle herd on hold for most of their lives. But when the couple retired a few years ago, Steve in 2011 and Sandra in 2013, they launched a plan to fulfill their dream of cattle ownership. “We only have a small herd, but we’ve worked really hard to make it better every year,” Steve said. “Before we ever bought the first cow we made a financial plan, attended lots of seminars and made sure our pastures and fences were ready. We also tried to buy cattle with the best genetics we could afford.” The Jameses are Colbert County Farmers Federation members and have attended several of the organization’s beef tours. Both in their 60s, the couple purchased a few cows from Steve’s father a few years ago and added others until their herd reached about 30. They also have 15 horses on their 120-acre spread near Sheffield. “We don’t have any delusions

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of being big cattlemen, but this is a way for us to supplement our retirement income and do something together we enjoy,” Steve said. He and Sandra each grew up on a farm, but admit they had much to learn about today’s beef cattle production. “This isn’t a hobby; it’s a business,” said Steve, who is in his second year as Colbert County Cattlemen’s Association president. “But it really doesn’t seem like work because we enjoy it so much.” The Jameses’ herd may be small by some standards, but it’s near the state average of 35 head, according to U.S. Census figures. The Jameses said they especially enjoy having their three children and five grandchildren visit the farm. They are active members of the First Baptist Church of Barton and often open their farm to church members, particularly young people, who enjoy fishing and asking questions about the cows and horses. “I grew up on a farm, and some of my best childhood memories are the ones spent there,” Sandra said. 18

“We want to leave that same legacy for our children and grandchildren.” The Jameses said their earlier careers in business helped with the new venture. She was the chief financial officer for the county board of education. He worked in manufacturing for an aluminum company and a paper mill. “Sandra is very particular about keeping good records and making sure we follow our business plan,” Steve said. “Of course, it’s taken us a couple of years to get established — we knew it would. This year we expect to break even or make a slight profit, and next year, we’re on track to actually make money with our cows.” More than anything, the couple said spending time with each other is their biggest reward. “The best thing about our cattle business is working together as a team and doing something we enjoy,” Sandra said. Steve agreed. “We grow our love every day, just like we’re growing our cow business,” he said. n M ay 2 0 1 6

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Why Soybeans?

The United States is the top soybean producing country in the world. Soy is one of the few plants that provides a complete protein, containing all eight amino acids essential for good health. Soybeans grown in Alabama are primarily used for animal feed, but can be used in a variety of products including adhesives, ink, cosmetics and foam padding. More than 800 soy-based products have been developed with farmer checkoff dollars since 1990.

“The soybean checkoff continues to help increase the demand for U.S. soy both domestically and internationally. Soybeans are going to play a vital role in eliminating food insecurity and reducing hunger around the world.” — Annie Dee, Pickens County Soybean Farmer

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Dual Enrollment Helps High School Students, Local Businesses Succeed By Mary Johnson

ual enrollment student Jalen Roberts was the youngest person and only woman in her welding courses at J.F. Drake State Community and Technical College in Huntsville. Through the dual enrollment program at Drake, Roberts graduated in May 2014 as a certified welder and quickly had three job offers. As a teenager, she was already working in her career field, years before her high school classmates will finish their college degrees. “I have a lot of friends who go to Alabama A&M University, and they’re still going through the basics,” she said. “It’s cool because they’ve said they’re proud of me, and I get to be an example for my friends.” M ay 2 0 1 6

More than 11,500 Alabama high school students earn over 35,000 college credit hours through dual enrollment annually. While some students use the program to finish entry-level college courses, others take dual enrollment classes to

Twenty-year old Jalen Roberts is the youngest person in her welding classes at J.F. Drake State Community and Technical College in Huntsville. Through dual enrollment, she earned a welding certificate from Drake State while she was a high school student. Roberts already has a job but is also studying for a second certificate.

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learn a trade. “Dual enrollment is fantastic because it lets high school students jumpstart their careers or even sample a career to see if they really like it,” said Karl Henry, Drake division chair for engineering technology. Numerous certificate programs available through dual enrollment fit the Alabama Department of Labor’s list of high-demand jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, including nursing, electrical engineering, computer science and welding. Those careers have average annual salaries above $34,000, much higher than Alabama’s average 2013 per capita income of $23,680. “It would be really difficult for a certified dual enrollment graduate to not find a good-paying job,” Henry said. “I had an employer who interviewed one of my classes, and they wanted to hire every student. If you’re a technician these days, you can get a job.” Business and community leaders can also benefit from dual enrollment. Through the Alabama Future Workforce Initiative (AFWI), taxpayers can donate to the Career-Technical Dual Enrollment Program to provide student scholarships. In the 2013-2014 school year, 3,500 scholarships were awarded through AFWI. Donors can claim a tax credit of up to 50 percent of the contribution, not to exceed $500,000 per tax year. They also can designate 80 percent of the contribution to a specific career-technical program. The AFWI aims to involve community w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

members who want to help local students earn a degree and employers who need skilled labor. “We have some great things going on right now with partnerships in industry,” said Drake welding instructor Ryan Green. “There are so many welders retiring right now, and there’s not enough of the younger generation of welders to take their place. Alabama has a lot of opportunity for welders with aerospace, oil rigs, agricultural machinery and shipyards in the state.” Green, who is Roberts’ welding teacher, said she is a perfect example of the success a student can achieve through dual enrollment. Roberts still works as a professional welder, but she’s also back at Drake pursuing an advanced manufacturing degree. Her goal is to follow in Green’s footsteps and become an instructor, teaching others the skills needed to weld. “When it comes to welding, metal is essential to the world because it’s needed for bridges, boats and cars,” Roberts said. “Welding is a way to leave a signature on the world.” Dual enrollment is available through the Alabama Community College System, which includes 23 community colleges, two technical colleges and one military college. For more information about dual enrollment or scholarships through AFWI, visit AlabamaDualEnrollment. com. n Top photo: Roberts discusses coursework with her welding instructor, Ryan Green. Left photo: Roberts shows her welding skills. Welding is considered a high-demand career by the Alabama Department of Labor. 22

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Frank Chirico

Federation State Equine Committee Member After a career of jumping out of airplanes, investigating farm crimes and practicing law, Coffee County farmer Frank Chirico now dedicates his time to another inspiring cause: horses. Originally from central Florida, Chirico, 76, retired after 20 years in the U.S. Army. He worked as a farm crime investigator and later earned his law degree from Faulkner University. “I fought in Vietnam when it wasn’t popular to be in the Army or support the war,” he said. “I’ve been all over the world. I’m certain the U.S. is the greatest country there is.” Chirico is a member of the Alabama Farmers Federation State Equine Committee, Coffee County Cattlemen’s Association and Coffee County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse. He has two children and five grandchildren with his late wife, Patricia. He and his current wife, Melissa, have 6 horses on 150 acres in Victoria.

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Alfa Travel Service presents… Exciting Travel Opportunities for 2016 Shades of Ireland Land and Air $3559 *

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First South Farm Credit Names Mike Pigg Alabama Division President

ike Pigg has been named president for First South Farm Credit’s (FSFC) 16 branches and operations in Alabama. He began his new duties in January following the retirement of Camp Powers, who was FSFC South Alabama Division president for 28 years. Pigg, a 36-year veteran employee of FSFC, served as First South’s North Alabama Division president for the past five years. He is a native of Decatur and a graduate of Auburn University. He recently relocated to the

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FSFC division office in Montgomery as part of his new statewide role. Pigg said he looks forward to his expanded duties and plans to continue the FSFC tradition of excellent customer service and competitive rates. “FSFC helps maintain and improve the quality of life for farmers and those living a rural lifestyle in Alabama by providing competitive loans and rural knowhow,” Pigg said. “I’m pleased to be part of an organization that takes pride in building lasting partnerships with our customers and shares profits with

Pigg

them through our patronage refund program.” Roger F. Chappell, CEO of FSFC, said Pigg has the experience and leadership qualities that have made First South a premier agricultural and

rural land lender. “We look forward to Mike managing all of our Alabama market and continuing to deliver the quality service and leadership our members have learned to expect from First South,” Chappell said. n

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eppers are an easy crop to grow in containers or in the ground, and neighbors love them both for the way they look and the peppers you share. Selections include yellow, red, orange, green and purple fruits that are pretty in flowerbeds, too. When choosing peppers, it’s all about their flavor and how they’re used. Some cooks prefer sweet cubanelle types, which they find more flavorful than traditional blocky bells. Big, thick-walled bells are great for stuffing. Banana peppers come in both hot and sweet types. Then, there are bite-sized, sweet-snacking peppers perfect for lunchboxes or hors d’oeuvres. For salsa, choose from mild or hot chilies, depending on your taste. Be aware some bell peppers are hot, while some jalapeños are not. The new, heatless jalapeños allow everyone to enjoy cheese-stuffed poppers. The easiest way to grow peppers is from seedlings, or transplants, especially this far into the season. Seeds should have been started indoors or in a greenhouse about six weeks ago. Unless you grow a lot of the same variety, it is often just as economical to buy one or two transplants of each variety rather than buying multiple seed packets and supplies. Pepper seeds lose their viability quickly in storage, so it is hard to keep seeds for several years to make their purchase worthwhile. Plants need warm weather, but sweet peppers can be testy in summer because they take a break when the nights are too hot. It may appear something is wrong because the plants aren’t setting fruit. But be patient. Keep the plants watered and healthy, and the reward will be a big flush of fruit for fall. On the other hand, hot peppers never quit. Chiles, Tabasco, hot banana, Thai hot and other hot peppers just keep producing through the summer heat. Research at the University of

By Lois Chaplin

Georgia found bell peppers are more productive with a little shade in the summer. Where available, plant them in sun but where the plants can get a little shade in the afternoon, or plant them where they have slightly filtered shade all day. The most productive plots in the tests grew under a 30-percent shade cloth. Because peppers are an extended crop, prepare the ground with a long-lasting source of nitrogen such as manure or cottonseed meal. In a pot, use timed-release fertilizer and supplement every couple of weeks with a liquid fertilizer throughout the growing season. Be sure to water; pepper size is reduced if plants go thirsty. Peppers have a naturally upright growth habit but still benefit from staking, which keeps brittle

branches from breaking with heavy fruit, especially in a summer thunderstorm. Varieties that make especially large plants (4 feet or taller), such as Big Bertha and Poblano, will need extra help because their stems can get heavy with fruit. They like a tomato cage. Between now and the first fall frost, it’s possible to grow and enjoy many different types of peppers in the garden or on a patio. Be patient with the more unusual ones as it takes weeks for varieties to change from green to their final color, but the deeper flavor of the mature fruit is worth the wait. n Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

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

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Save Money. Save Lives. Introducing the latest member benefit of the Alabama Farmers Federation.

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By Jill Clair Gentry

CHEESY SURPRISE MEATBALLS Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 10 minutes (10 minutes active) For the meatballs: 2 pounds ground beef 1 cup plain oatmeal 2 eggs 1 cup milk 1 tablespoons dried minced onion 2 teaspoons chili powder 2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 8-ounce block cheddar cheese, cubed Sauce: 2 cups ketchup 1 1/2 cups brown sugar 2 tablespoons mustard 1/4 cup water

Heat oven to 350 F. To prepare meatballs, mix all ingredients together except cubed cheddar. Form a meatball around each cube of cheese so the cheese is in the center of the meatball. Place meatballs on an oven-safe cooling rack or drip pan placed on a foil-lined cookie sheet with a rim. This ensures meatballs won’t sit in grease. Bake 40 minutes. Prepare sauce by combining ingredients in a large bowl until smooth. Place cooked meatballs in sauce; stir to coat. Remove meatballs; return to oven for 15 more minutes. Allow meatballs to cool slightly, so cheese can set. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

t Jim and Jessica Yance’s home, when someone asks what’s for dinner, the answer usually includes beef. With a freezer full of beef raised right on their farm in Haleburg, a tiny town just outside Columbia, the Yances are always ready to whip up a home-cooked meal for their two boys, Tye, 5, and Reid, 8-months. Jim and Jessica, who were Alabama’s Outstanding Young Farm Family for the Beef Division in 2013, own JYJ Red Angus, a breeding operation that has produced some of the nation’s most sought-after Red Angus genetics, including top-selling bull Redemption Y1334. They also run a commercial cattle operation and are active in the Henry County Farmers Federation. “A lot of times, we’ll hold back some steers, and we’ll finish those out and sell them for freezer beef,” Jessica said. “And of course, we keep some for ourselves, too. We eat beef almost every night of the week. I don’t shop for meat because I have my own.” Having nearly an unlimited supply of beef saves money and ensures meals are eaten at home around the dinner table. “As a stay-at-home mom, I prefer home-cooked meals for my boys, and just having the time to sit down as a family and have our meals together is important to us,” Jessica said. “We want them to know meal time is family time together and should be a priority.” Jessica, a graduate of Auburn University’s nutrition science program, loves to experiment with cooking. The enchilada casserole recipe she shares was created as an assignment for a nutrition class, and it’s been a family favorite ever since. “At Auburn, we had to do cooking labs, and I used to come home from school and try out all my recipes on my family,” she said. “I ventured out and learned some new things. They loved it.” Another favorite recipe is a steak marinade developed by Jim’s mother, which was used for the steaks served at Jim and Jessica’s wedding rehearsal dinner. “The steaks were seared with a personalized meat iron with our ‘JYJ’ emblem on it,” Jessica said. “It was so special.” M ay 2 0 1 6

BLACK BEAN AND BEEF ENCHILADA CASSEROLE 2 pounds ground beef 1 envelope taco seasoning 2/3 cups water 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 onion, chopped 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 can chopped green chilies 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed 28-ounce can enchilada sauce 8 ounces sour cream Flour tortillas 1/2 cup cheddar cheese 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese Salsa for garnish Green onions, chopped for garnish

Heat oven to 400 F. Brown beef and drain. Add taco seasoning and water (follow package directions). Set aside. In saucepan, saute onion and garlic in oil. Add beans, chilies and enchilada sauce. Bring to a low boil. Remove from heat; add sour cream. Roll meat in tortillas and place in a baking dish, seam side down. Pour enchilada sauce mixture over tortillas. Cover with cheeses. Bake 12 minutes. Serve with a dollop of salsa and green onions as garnish. BASIC BACKYARD BURGER Start-to-finish: 30 minutes Makes 12 hamburgers 3 pounds ground beef 2 eggs 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce 3 tablespoons Dale’s steak seasoning 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt 1 1/2 teaspoons pepper 2 tablespoons McCormick’s Gourmet Burger Seasoning

Mix all ingredients together and shape into patties. Burgers will shrink as they cook. Grill to desired doneness. STEAK MARINADE Start-to-finish: 24 hours (5 minutes active) 1/2 cup lemon juice 1/4 cup soy sauce 1/4 cup olive oil Black pepper, to taste

Place marinade and steaks in a bowl or zip-top bag. Marinate for 24 hours and cook as desired. M ay 2 0 1 6

HUNGRY MAN’S CASSEROLE Start-to-finish: 1 hour (15 minutes active) Serves 4-6 1 box Kraft Original macaroni and cheese, prepared 1 pound ground beef 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 onion, chopped 13.5-ounce can sliced mushrooms, drained 10.5-ounce can mushroom soup 1/4 cup milk 4-ounce jar diced pimentos, drained 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese; shredded 6-ounce can fried onions

Heat oven to 350 F. Brown meat and onion; drain. Add salt and pepper. In a large bowl, combine meat, mushrooms, macaroni and cheese, soup, milk and pimentos. Pour into a greased baking dish. Bake 35 minutes. Top with cheese. Bake 5 more minutes. Turn oven off, add onions and return to hot oven for 5 minutes or until onions are golden brown. Serve with salad and breadsticks.

BAKED SPAGHETTI Start-to-finish: 1 hour Serves 6-8 1 cup chopped onion 1 cup chopped bell pepper 1 tablespoon butter 28-ounce can diced tomatoes with liquid 4-ounce can mushroom stems and pieces, drained 2-ounce can sliced ripe olives; drained 2 teaspoons dried oregano 2 pounds ground beef, cooked and drained 16 ounces spaghetti, cooked and drained 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded 10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup 1/4 cup water 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Heat oven to 350 F. In a large skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper in butter until tender. Add tomatoes, mushrooms, olives and oregano. Add cooked ground beef. Simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes. 29

Place half of the cooked spaghetti in a greased baking dish. Top with half of the meat mixture. Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Repeat layers. Mix soup and water until smooth and pour over casserole. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes or until heated thoroughly. Serve with salad and bread. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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