Neighbors Magazine, May 2021

May 2021 | Volume 46 | Number 5 Debra Davis | Editor Marlee Moore | Associate Editor Laura Unger | Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan | Executive Director Jeff Helms | Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell | President, Stanton Rex Vaughn | Vice President | North, Huntsville Jon Hegeman | Vice President | Central, Anniston George Jeffcoat | Vice President | Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper | Vice President | Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn | Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn | Hillsboro Mark Byrd | Danville John Bert East | Leesburg Tim Whitley | Horton Joe Anders | Northport Phillip Hunter | Birmingham Joe Lambrecht | Wetumpka Jimmy Holliman | Marion Junction Bill Cook | Montgomery Steve Stroud | Goshen Mark Kaiser | Seminole Thomas Adams | Newville Kathy Gordon | Dadeville Brady Peek | Athens Neighbors (ISSN 0162-3974) is published monthly by the Alabama Farmers Federation, 2108 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, Alabama 36116 or (334) 288-3900. For information about Alabama Farmers Federation member benefits, visit the website www.alfafarmers.org. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Alabama, and additional mailing offices.

Printed in the U.S.A. POSTMASTER Send address changes to Neighbors P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001 MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com DISCLAIMERS: Ad­vertise­­­­­­­ments in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement by the magazine or Alabama Farmers Federation. Editorial information from sources outside the Alabama Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Alabama Farmers Federation policies. Publication of information does not imply an endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation.

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In This Issue 5 | Farm-City Program Honors Creative Students

36 | Celebrate Egg Month

6 | Houston, Pike Counties Win Top Farm-City Awards

8 | Federation Women’s Leadership Conference

10 | Historical Review Of The Young Farmers Program 16 | Spring Storms Spawn

Tornado Outbreaks

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On The Cover

Greer Jones of Pike County showed the Grand Champion Market Animal, and Avery Ruf of Limestone County showed the Grand Champion Heifer at the Jr. Beef Expo March 18-20 in Montgomery.

Photo By Reba Hicks

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www.AlfaFarmers.org

EDQAM A member of American Farm Bureau Federation

alfafarmers.org

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Alabama Farm-City Awards 2021

Maddie Jane Shealy, a secondgrade student from Lineville Elementary School, won first place in the Kindergarten-Third Grade Poster Contest.

Maddie Thomas, a fifth-grade student at Ariton Elementary School, won first place in the Fourth-Sixth Grade Poster Contest.

Nicholas Sasser, a ninth-grade student at Central Freshman Academy, won first place in the Seventh-Ninth Grade Essay Contest.

Aisha Nasser, a senior at Hubbertville School, won first place in the 10th-12th Grade Essay Contest.

Rio Murray, a senior at Munford High School, won first place in the Farm-City Video Contest.

Contest Winners Illustrate Story Of “Sweet Grown Alabama”

By Marlee Moore myriad of media was available for A contestants to explore and use when illustrating the 2020 Farm-City

theme, “Sweet Grown Alabama.”

Eighteen students representing 14 counties were honored for their creativity during the Alabama Farm-City Awards Program in Birmingham April 8. Contests spanned three categories — posters, essays and videos.

Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms applauded the students’ artistry, depicted with posters, crayons and markers; language and Word documents; and graphics and video footage.

“These students showed how sweet the bounty of Alabama agriculture really is,” Helms said. “Our judges were impressed with all entrants’ work, and we’re thankful our friends at Alabama Farmers Cooperative are again sponsoring cash prizes for these winning contestants and matching awards for their schools.”

The theme supported Alabama’s state agricultural branding program. Learn more by visiting SweetGrownAlabama.org.

alfafarmers.org

Poster Contest, Kindergarten-Third Grade n First place and $200 — Maddie Jane Shealy, second grade, Lineville Elementary School in Clay County n Second place and $100 — Lydia Darley, third grade, Ariton Elementary School in Dale County Poster Contest, Fourth-Sixth Grade n First place and $200 — Maddie Thomas, fifth grade, Ariton Elementary School in Dale County n Second place and $100 — Caiden Granger, fifth grade, Lakewood Elementary School in Russell County Eight students also received an honorable mention and $50 through the poster contest. n Chloe Walker, second grade, Fairview Elementary School in Cullman County n Jeremiah Bates, second grade, Caldwell Elementary in Jackson County n Adley Sellers, third grade, Bagley Elementary in Jefferson County n Addison Heath, third grade, Sulligent School in Lamar County n Emma Leigh Orr, fourth grade, Beauregard Elementary in Lee County n McKinley Morris, fifth grade, Hartselle Intermediate School in Morgan County

n Loxley Lankford, fourth grade, Pike Liberal Arts School in Pike County n Mallory Campbell, fourth grade, Munford Elementary in Talladega County The 2022 Alabama Farm-City Calendar will feature poster winners and honorees, in addition to winning essays.

Essay Contest, Seventh-Ninth Grade n First place and $300 — Nicholas Sasser, ninth grade, Central Freshman Academy in Russell County n Second place and $200 — Molly Kate Williamson, ninth grade, First Assembly Christian School in Clay County Essay Contest 10th-12th Grade n First place and $300 — Aisha Nasser, 12th grade, Hubbertville School in Fayette County n Second place and $200 — Holly Ellis, 12th grade, Skyline High School in Jackson County Video Contest n First place and $300 — Rio Murray, 12th grade, Munford High School in Talladega County n Second place and $200 — Miley Taylor, 10th grade, Crenshaw County Career Academy in Crenshaw County May 2021

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Alabama Farm-City Awards 2021

Houston, Pike Counties Take Top Honors For Farm-City Programs

By Debra Davis ouston and Pike counties are H top in the state when it comes to Alabama Farm-City programs, and each

Houston County was named the Best Farm-City Committee for Division 1. County Chairman Randy Davis, center, is pictured with Alabama Farm Credit CEO and President Mel Koller and Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms.

Pike County was named the Best Farm-City Committee for Division 2. County Chairman Traci Shaver, center, is pictured with Alabama Farm Credit CEO and President Mel Koller and Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms.

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group’s members were recognized at the organization’s awards program in Birmingham April 8.

County programs are ranked in two divisions. Division 1 has more than 35,600 people and was won by Houston County; Division 2 has fewer residents, and Pike County took top honors. In addition to an award and recognition for their hard work, winning committees also received cash awards from Alabama Farm Credit. Division winners received $300, runners-up took home $200, and category winners received $100.

“When Alabama Farm Credit approached us about being a Farm-City sponsor, we wanted their investment to enhance the program’s mission to build bridges between farmers and their neighbors,” said Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms. “By investing in these county programs, Alabama Farm Credit is helping to strengthen activities at the local level where it’s more difficult to find cash, rather than in-kind, support. We appreciate Alabama Farm Credit CEO and President Mel Koller for advancing Farm-City’s work in our communities.”

In addition to being named Division 1 winner, Houston County was recognized for the Best Media Coverage / Proclamation and Best Civic Club Programs. Utilizing the pandemic to highlight its Farm-City mission, the committee used digital billboards to feature photos of front-line workers on a farm. The signage included a Sweet Grown Alabama theme and Farm-City Week dates. The committee generated alfafarmers.org

numerous media stories featuring Farm-City activities and created its own newsletter. Other activities included proclamations and community activities.

Cullman County was runner-up in Division 1 and was recognized for the Best Farm-City Dinner.

Division 2 state winner Pike County also was recognized for the Best Special Activities Program. The creative committee recognized senior county committee members; coordinated a job swap; honored local health care workers; coordinated a touch-a-tractor educational event; gave local tours; donated agricultural books to local libraries; and distributed educational materials to over 2,000 students. The group also established a memorial fund to honor long-time Pike County Farm-City Committee member Tammy Powell.

Powell also was honored posthumously with the Farm-City Service Award from the state organization for her work as a 4-H and Extension agent, as well as for the impact she made on countless young people and adults throughout the state.

She was a tireless volunteer for the county Farm-City program.

Henry County was runner-up in Division 2 and also won the Best Civic Club Activities Award and Target Award for adoption of the 2020 Farm-City

Allen Pickens, left, of Lawrence County received the Farm-City Volunteer of the Year Award April 8.

He is pictured with Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms. alfafarmers.org

Pike County’s Tammy Powell was honored posthumously with the Farm-City Service Award at the Alabama Farm-City Awards Program April 8 in Birmingham. Powell was an active member of Pike County’s Farm-City Committee and was the county Extension agent, where she influenced the lives of thousands of young people and helped farmers throughout the area. Her daughter, Heather Powell Minton, and husband, Eddie Powell, accepted the award from Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms, right.

theme of Sweet Grown Alabama.

Allen Pickens of Lawrence County was recognized as Farm-City Volunteer of the Year. When the pandemic shut down group gatherings and threatened to ruin Farm-City activities, he stepped up to ensure the message of agriculture was still heard. He spearheaded a series of videos highlighting commodities raised in Lawrence County. Educational materials included viewer evaluations to gauge how much they learned. Pickens has been a valuable volunteer leader for years, working with special activities including a hayride and pizza farm program.

In addition to recognizing the state’s best Farm-City programs and winning students in poster, essay and video contests, Alabama’s Farm of Distinction winner was honored at the luncheon.

Thomas and Melissa Ellis of Triple E Farm and Priester’s Pecans in Lowndes County were selected for the 2020 honor and will represent Alabama in the Southeastern Farmer of the Year contest at the Sunbelt Ag Expo Oct. 19-21 in Moultrie, Georgia. They will compete with top farmers from nine other states.

As the state winner, the Ellises received a John Deere Gator from Ag Pro, SunSouth and TriGreen dealers; a $1,000 gift certificate from Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC); and an engraved farm sign from Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance.

They also received $2,500 from Swisher Sweets and other prizes as part of the Southeastern Farmer of the Year program.

Andy and Karen Williams of Circle W Farms in Henry County were recognized as the 2020 Farm of Distinction runner-up. They received a $500 gift certificate from AFC and a Traeger grill and supplies valued at $1,000 from First South Farm Credit.

Other Division 1 Winners n Best Farm-City Tour — Calhoun County n Scrapbook Award — Montgomery County n Innovative Idea Award — Marshall County n Best Special Activities — Lee County n Target Award — Lauderdale County Other Division 2 Winners n Best Farm-City Tour — Randolph County n Scrapbook Award — Geneva County n Innovative Idea Award — Lawrence County n Best Farm-City Dinner — Franklin County n Best Media Coverage / Proclamation — Franklin County May 2021

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Women’s Leadership Conference 2021

Women’s Conference Features Fun, Fellowship And Fresh Ideas

Brooke Burks, right, shared tips and tricks to convert recipes for use in electric pressure cookers during the Women’s Leadership Conference in Birmingham April 8. The Buttered Home blogger is pictured with Janice King of Limestone County.

By Debra Davis he atmosphere was festive and T friendly at the annual Women’s Leadership Conference as friends from

around the state greeted each other after sheltering at home for much of the past year.

The conference was in Birmingham April 7-9 and attracted 160 Alabama Farmers Federation members who attended workshops and heard motivational speakers. After postponing last year’s conference because of the COVID-19 pandemic, members welcomed the gathering, abiding by social distancing guidelines and wearing masks.

“This year’s conference has been wonderful,” said Federation Women’s Leadership Director Kim Earwood. “It has been such a blessing for everyone to be together and come away with refreshed ideas and new information to take back to their individual counties for promoting agriculture.”

Federation President Jimmy Parnell welcomed conference attendees and praised them for their work to promote agriculture and rural Alabama.

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“This is the part of our organization that can get things done,” Parnell said at the opening banquet. “We appreciate everything you do for our organization, for your families and in your community.”

The Federation’s Brian Hardin and Mitt Walker gave legislative updates on state and federal issues at the conference.

Hardin, the Governmental and Agricultural Programs Department (GAP) director, discussed state legislation that affects rural Alabama, including rural broadband. He encouraged members to contact legislators and push for increased connectivity for rural areas.

Walker, the assistant GAP Department director, also serves as the Federation’s national affairs director. He discussed ag labor, climate change and partisanship in Washington.

The conference featured workshops on the Instant Pot by Brooke Burks of The Buttered Home food blog; a calendar gardening session by Sidney Phelps, e-commerce director for Bonnie Plants; and proper clothing fit by Brenda Meadows of The Lingerie Shoppe in Mountain Brook.

Karmen Smith of Fyffe, an author and motivational speaker, shared her journey through infertility and family struggles. Attendees also received a copy of her book, “When You Pray Big, Things Happen.”

The closing banquet featured humorist and author Debbie Childers.

The Alabama Farm-City Awards Program luncheon was held in conjunction with the Women’s Leadership Conference April 8.

Sidney Phelps, left, of Bonnie Plants discussed gardening tips with Lauderdale County’s Schuylar Simmons during the Women’s Leadership Conference in Birmingham April 8. alfafarmers.org

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The Young Farmers Program cultivates leaders like President Jimmy Parnell. He, wife Robin and children James Robert and Anna Grace were the 1999 Outstanding Young Farm Family. The family is pictured with then-President Jerry Newby, a former State Young Farmers Committee chair.

Young Farmers Program Cultivates Leaders

By Marlee Moore

The Excellence in Agriculture contest was added to the Young Farmers slate of events in 2006. From left were Young Farmers Division Director Brandon Moore; winner Amy Belcher of Montgomery County; first runnersup Amy and James Burgess of Blount County with their daughter, Abby; and Federation Executive Director Mike Kilgore.

ubbed the Alabama Farm Bureau D Young People’s Program in 1957, today’s Young Farmers Program

remains a training ground for the next generation of leaders.

The group has developed scores of leaders for Alabama agriculture, including statewide elected officials, legislators, and Alabama Farmers Federation board members and presidents, including current President Jimmy Parnell and his predecessor, Jerry Newby.

Training Ground

Fayette County organized Alabama’s first Young People’s county committee in 1957, shortly after the state program

was formed to develop leadership skills in 18- to 28-year-old farmers.

Successive groups formed in Walker, Calhoun, Houston and Montgomery counties in 1959. Throughout the years, young farmers in all 67 counties have been active. The Young People’s Program was renamed Young Farmers in 1968.

County voting delegates elect State Young Farmers Committee members during the annual meeting business session each December.

The committee has 10 elected district and at-large representatives, plus the Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF).

Farmers from 33 counties have led the committee as chairman.

The State Young People’s Committee was created in 1957. From left are Lewis Harper, Tuscaloosa County, advisor, state executive committee; Bobby Roberts, Fayette County, reporter; Donald Springer, Tuscaloosa County, vice chair; Marvin Kelley, Etowah County, chair; Morris Stringer, Houston County, secretary; Betty Whitt, Limestone County; and Farm Bureau’s John Dorrill. Not pictured: Martha Yancey, Etowah County.

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Statewide Contests

Since its inception, young farmers have participated in statewide contests. A 1957 Alabama Farm Bureau News advertisement offered involvement opportunities for young farmers, including Talk Meet and Talent Find.

Today, farmers ages 18-35 compete in state contests; winners alfafarmers.org

represent Alabama in American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) contests.

The OYFF contest honors farmers for excellence and advancements, plus Farm Bureau involvement. The first OYFF was Robert and Martha Gardener of Tallapoosa County in 1963. Prize packages evolved from plaques and bragging rights to include over $60,000 in prizes. Farmers from 37 counties have scored the OYFF title.

Marvin Kelley of Etowah County won first place in Alabama’s inaugural Talk Meet in 1957. He was also the first Young People’s Committee chairman.

Talk Meet, now called Discussion Meet, was revamped when the Federation rejoined AFBF in 2006. It encourages a committee-style discussion centered on agricultural issues.

Alabama’s first Excellence in Agriculture contest was in 2006. Amy Belcher of Montgomery County won the competition, which examines agricultural and Farm Bureau involvement for those whose primary income is earned off farm.

Past contests included the Miss Alabama Agriculture pageant. Jewel Walters of Tuscaloosa County was named the first winner in 1958. The final queen, Casey East of Pike County, was crowned in 2008.

Jewel Walters was crowned the first Alabama Farm Bureau queen in 1958. She was previously the Tuscaloosa County Farm Bureau queen. This contest evolved into the Miss Alabama Agriculture program, which ended in 2008. alfafarmers.org

Community Service

Initial Young People’s Program advertisements supported projects focused on safety, citizenship, community beautification, health and recreation leadership. County members were encouraged to participate in demonstration projects showing how farming affects consumers.

Today, county committees complete an annual report detailing activities, meetings and participation. Project examples include work days at nonprofits, food drives, touch-a-tractor events, sweet corn donations, wild hog rodeos and more.

Conference Connection

The first Young People’s Conference was in summer 1958 at Cheaha State Park. Over the years, conference

activities varied — from seminars to leadership activities to farm tours. But the goal remains the same: encourage idea-sharing, relationship-building and fellowship.

Conference attendance reached 400-plus in the ‘90s, dipped for a time, then rose to over 400 again when the group met in Mobile in 2020.

National Leadership

Four Alabamians have chaired what is now AFBF’s Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Committee. Jim Brady of Perry County led the way in 1963.

After rejoining AFBF, three Alabama leaders served as national YF&R Committee chair: Townsend Kyser of Hale County, 2008; Will Gilmer of Lamar County, 2010; and Jon Hegeman of Calhoun County, 2015.

Discussion Meet, formerly called Talk Meet, is a popular competition for young farmers. Members, like this crop of participants, discuss ag issues in a committeestyle format. The winner represents Alabama at the national contest annually.

The first Young People’s Conference was in 1958 at Cheaha State Park. Today, young farmers still gather annually to fellowship.

Front from left: Kitty Walter Garrett, Montgomery; Anne Bailey, Perry; Fred Harbison, Cullman; Frances Shelton, Lauderdale; Back from left: Tommy Walters, Pike; Lanier Denson, Calhoun; Ronnie Pounders, Colbert; Eleanor Craft, Pickens; Mrs. Wilbur Shirah, Russell; Donald Springer, Tuscaloosa; Brenda Shirley, Madison; Donald Hand, Autauga; and John Branyon, Fayette.

Chairman Marvin Kelley of Etowah County greeted Mrs. Ruby Henry of Cheaha State Park.

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Alabama Row Crop Acreage Steady As Prices Rise As soil temperatures rise and fields dry out from a rainy first quarter, Alabama farmers are expected to plant the following: Crop Corn Cotton Soybeans Peanuts Wheat (planted last fall)

2021 Intended Acreage 330,000 450,000 290,000 190,000 180,000

By Marlee Moore labama row crop acreage is expected to remain steady A in 2021 as farmers welcome better prices but brace for surging input costs.

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2020 Planted Acreage 330,000 450,000 280,000 185,000 135,000

Difference 0 0 10,000+ 5,000+ 45,000+

Acreage estimates are nearly identical to 2020, save a 33% increase in winter wheat acres. That’s according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Prospective Plantings report released March 31.

“The stable acreage is due to rising input costs, crop rotation, equipment limitations and logistics such as on-farm storage,” said Alabama Farmers Federation Cotton, Soybean and Wheat & Feed Grain divisions director Carla Hornady.

“Prices look great right now, but farmers have to consider the agronomic effect on their farms, not just the economic impact of high prices.”

Take Randall Beers. The 49-year-old is planting corn, peanuts and cotton in Dallas and Lowndes counties “I have a rotation I stick pretty close to, but if one crop favors another market-wise, I may change it up,” said Beers, who serves on the Alabama Cotton Commission.

Nationally, diesel and fertilizer prices are trending upward. It’s having a direct effect on farmers like Beers.

He said fuel prices are up 10-15%, while oil prices skyrocketed 40% since January. Fertilizer costs, which were at national 10-year lows last summer and fall, are increasing. Beers is facing a 25% increase in fertilizer.

“I’m feeling optimistic,” he said. “Last year was just so depressing. The markets were doing nothing, and it really didn’t seem like we could see the light at the end of the tunnel. We had a really good crop until Hurricane Zeta hit. This year, at least we have some prices to be optimistic about, and inputs haven’t gone crazy yet.” alfafarmers.org

Evading Invasives: A Guide To Knowing Nonnative Species

By Marlee Moore udzu may be the plant that snarled K the South, but it’s just one of the nonnative invasive species running

rampant across Alabama.

“Unfortunately, invasive species will be around for a long time,” said Dana Stone, the Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) Forest Management Division director. “Some invasive plants have fewer occupied acres but are very devastating to the forest environment when present.”

Registered forester Brian Agnew agrees. He said many nonnative invasive plants were brought to the U.S. as ornamental flora or for erosion control.

Exotic plants aren’t created equally and aren’t innately problematic — until they escape cultivation, spread and aggressively replace native species, he said.

For forest landowners, Alabama’s Top 5 most damaging invasive plants are cogongrass, tallowtree, Chinese privet, kudzu and Japanese climbing fern, according to Stone and Alabama Extension’s Dr. Nancy Lowenstein, an invasive plant specialist. While it’s not an exhaustive list, it gives landowners a starting point.

“Eradicating nonnative species is a long process and may be close to

alfafarmers.org

Registered forester Brian Agnew said many nonnative invasive species, such as cogongrass, were brought to the U.S. as ornamental flora or for erosion control.

impossible,” said Agnew, who serves on the Bullock County Farmers Federation board. “But you have to try to control them.”

Stone, Agnew and Lowenstein suggest contacting industry professionals — such as registered foresters, Extension experts or AFC staff — to accurately identify and combat invasive plants.

For more tips, visit aces.edu/blog/ tag/invasive-species. The Alabama Extension site includes field guides to classifying invasive species, including those prevalent in residential areas.

Cogongrass

Cogongrass is an aggressive, intrusive plant first introduced to Mobile in the early 1900s from Asia.

Cogongrass has thick, extensive, hard-to-kill rhizomes and is a federal noxious weed (which means authorities can implement quarantines and take other actions to contain or destroy the weed and limit its spread).

The tall, perennial grass forms dense, circular infestations and is highly flammable, reaching temperatures that can kill longleaf pines. Silverywhite flowers bloom in spring or early summer.

Cogongrass can reproduce by dandelion-like seeds, but most new

Silvery-white flowers signal cogongrass is blooming in spring or early summer. The aggressive, intrusive plant is highly flammable.

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infestations occur when rhizomes are transported to a new location.

Experts recommend cleaning vehicles and equipment in the field if working near cogongrass to limit its spread. Select weed suppressants can be effective against cogongrass.

However, they are generally situationspecific and require multiple treatments.

Tallowtree

Privet produces numerous seeds spread by birds, wind and other animals. The mostly evergreen shrub was brought to the U.S. in the 1850s and continues to be spread and planted as an ornamental shrub.

Plants can be controlled by hand pulling, weed wrenching, brush mulching and suppressant applications during specific stages of growth.

Also called the popcorn tree because of its off-white waxy seeds, a mature tallowtree can produce 100,000 seeds, which are viable in soil for up to seven years. Storms, water, wind and birds have caused tallowtrees to infest wetlands, as well as upland forests, especially in south Alabama. The tree, which has bright fall foliage, can reproduce by surface root sprouts.

Brush mulchers or shredders effectively open dense stands and can be a good first step to managing tallowtree invasion. However, follow-up treatments are necessary. It’s native to Eastern Asia and was introduced to the U.S. in the 1700s.

Kudzu rapidly overtakes trees, buildings, fences, road signs and more. It can grow more than a foot a day in the summer.

Japanese Climbing Fern

Chinese privet produces numerous seeds which are spread by birds, wind and other animals. Small, white, fragrant flowers appear from April to June on this highly invasive plant.

Kudzu

Tallowtree earned its nickname — the popcorn tree — because of waxy, off-white seeds. Tallowtrees have infested wetlands, primarily in south Alabama.

Chinese Privet

Chinese privet creates dense thickets in forest understories, preventing other vegetation from growing. Privet has opposite, leathery, oblong leaves with a pointed tip. Many small, white and fragrant flowers appear April to June.

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suppressants can be used for residential control.

Kudzu can grow a foot a day in the summer, overwhelming trees, buildings, fences, road signs, poles and more. It eventually grows over other plants.

Kudzu was planted extensively in the South in the early to mid-1900s for forage and erosion control. However, its extensive roots and underground tubers make the Chinese native difficult to eradicate. Those roots and tubers must be killed before kudzu can be controlled. To stop new kudzu vine growth, cut just below the root crown and remove from the soil.

To control kudzu by repeated mowing or cutting, cut every vine to the ground. Then repeatedly cut or mow until it no longer regrows.

While several products are labeled for kudzu control in forestry and rights-of-way, a limited number of

At first glance, Japanese climbing fern looks like a vine. However, the fern produces thousands of tiny spores that are dispersed by wind and rain. It can also reproduce by rhizomes.

Japanese climbing fern is native to Asia and Australia and was introduced to the U.S. in the 1930s. Careful prescribed burns can reduce vines, and herbicide applications to foliage can control underground stems. However, Japanese climbing fern can also create fire ladders, where fire moves upward into a canopy of trees.

Japanese climbing fern can create dangerous fire ladders, where fire moves upward into a canopy of trees. alfafarmers.org

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Spring Storms Spawn Tornadoes Across Alabama

By Debra Davis

Baker recalled a Bible verse Jandimmy about praying in a closet when he a friend took shelter just before a

tornado demolished his brick home in the New Cedron community outside Billingsley March 17.

“But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret, and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.” Matthew 6:6 The roof and most exterior walls were ripped from Baker’s home in rural Chilton County as a series of storms moved across the state. He and a friend were watching the news when a phone alert said a tornado was approaching 16

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the area.

“I went out on the front porch and looked, and I could see the storm coming,” said the 81-year-old. “It was like I heard other people describe it — it sounded like a freight train. We went inside and got in the hall closet. I sat down, and she sat in my lap. We prayed out loud that God would take care of us.

He did.”

The two emerged from the 2-by-3-foot closet a few minutes later.

Few walls of the house were standing, and Baker’s car, which was parked in a garage attached to the house, was covered in bricks, lumber and other debris. Their furniture and other personal belongings were scattered for hundreds of yards.

“When we stepped out of the closet,

Above: Jimmy Baker stands outside the closet that saved his life when his home was destroyed by a tornado March 17. Top: Alfa Adjuster Sam Green visited with Baker the morning after the storm.

we both burst into tears,” Baker said. “It is still amazing we survived.”

Early the next morning, Alfa Insurance Adjuster Sam Green was with Baker examining the damage. The homeowner expressed appreciation for the fast claims service.

“Alfa’s always been good to me,” Baker said.

Baker was one of thousands of Alabama residents who sought shelter from a series of storms that rolled across the state this spring. About a week after his close call, five Alabamians lost their lives when a tornado hit the Calhoun County town of Ohatchee. The state recorded 64 tornadoes during the first three months of 2021, or 31% of twisters confirmed nationwide.

Alfa Senior Vice President of Claims alfafarmers.org

Alfa Adjuster Josh Cottingham, left, visits with Sam Hogue after a tornado ripped through his farm near Brent March 25.

Bryan Hubbard said he’s proud of how adjusters answered the call.

“It’s been a very active spring storm season, but it’s not overwhelming at this point,” Hubbard said. “We’ve been able to provide the standard of service Alfa customers have come to expect.”

As of April 1, Alfa had processed almost 2,200 claims related to tornadoes and severe storms across its Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi

service areas. One tornado traveled roughly 100 miles across Alabama.

When tornadoes tore through north Shelby County March 25, Alfa Agent Jacob Vail didn’t wait on customers to contact him with claims. He loaded his vehicle with hot pizzas and brought food, support and encouragement to homeowners digging out of rubble.

The same storms that slammed Shelby County ripped through Bibb County, leaving a path of destruction more than a mile wide in some areas near Brent. Alfa Adjuster Josh Cottingham and Agent Paul Hightower were out checking on policyholders as soon as the roads were cleared.

Sam Hogue, who farms near Brent, said a tornado toppled trees and slammed a large equipment barn into a nearby tenant house. Thankfully, no one was home when giant I-beams and masses of tangled metal collided with the house, moving it 3 feet off its foundation.

Hogue said he and other family members hunkered in the basement of his mother-in-law’s home a few hundred yards away.

“It didn’t really sound that bad from where we were, but once we took a look around, it was hard to believe how bad it was,” he said. “It’s still hard to believe.”

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Alfa Agent Jacob Vail discusses storm damage with policyholder Christopher Sims after a March 25 tornado struck Sims’s neighborhood in the Eagle Point subdivision in Birmingham. alfafarmers.org

SHIPPING Limitations apply.

Call Toll-Free 877-201-8549 May 2021

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17

Months Of Prep Pay Off During Jr. Beef Expo

Fountain Pitts of Escambia County competed in the Junior Showmanship Contest during the Jr. Beef Expo March 18. All showmanship competitors received embroidered shirts, courtesy of presenting sponsor Alfa Insurance.

By Marlee Moore hirring fans, splashing water, W buzzing clippers and excited chatter filled barns around Teague

Arena March 18-20 as nearly 200 youth prepared to lead heifers and steers around the ring at the Jr. Beef Expo (JBE).

The Alabama Farmers Federation manages the premier livestock show, which is presented by Alfa Insurance and held in conjunction with the SLE Rodeo.

But before families haul cattle — and children — to Montgomery, months of show preparation are necessary.

In Jemison in Chilton County, sisters Lillian and Claire Smith spend about two hours daily with their calves. They brush, rinse and blow dry the animals to improve hair quality. That’s in addition to walking calves to relax their gait and familiarize them with directions. The

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girls, like their fellow showmen, use a halter, show sticks and verbal cues to direct the animals.

“It gives you something to go home and do every day,” said Claire, 9.

Preceding the daily dedication is a big decision — choosing which calf to show.

“We have to find the right calf for the right budget,” said Bridgett Smith, Lillian and Claire’s mother. “My husband, Jason, is dedicated to looking at cows.

Cattle are like humans; they all have personalities.”

Training those personalities to perform well in the ring is a hefty task for showmen, no matter their age. Many youth, such as Lillian and Claire, start showing animals like goats when they’re younger before showing cattle at age 9, their first year of competition eligibility.

“Goats were fun, but cattle are even more fun,” said 11-year-old Lillian. “You go into the ring and show off what

you’ve done. When you win or get first in your class, it pays off.”

Claire added, “When you go out in the ring, it feels awesome.”

For the Smith sisters, the preparation paid off at JBE. Lillian’s Chianina and Hereford heifers were reserve champions in their respective divisions. Claire’s Shorthorn Plus heifer was also division reserve champion.

Overall, Greer Jones of Pike County exhibited the grand champion market animal, while Avery Ruf of Limestone County exhibited the grand champion heifer.

Show coordinator Brady Ragland thanked youth, families, sponsors and volunteers who annually make JBE a success.

“As soon as one show finishes, we take a breath and start preparing for the next year. And we know these families do the same thing,” said Ragland, the Federation’s Beef Division director. “It’s amazing to see youth come back year after year and build on their skills in the ring. These are the future leaders of Alabama agriculture, and we’re proud to support them.”

Lillian Smith of Chilton County combed her heifer in preparation for entering the show ring during the Jr. Beef Expo. alfafarmers.org

2021 Showmanship Winners Showmanship was sponsored by Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation.

senior showmanship top five senior showmanship Champion Jewel Thompson, left, of Opelika in Lee County won the Senior Showmanship Contest.

She is pictured with her sister, Victoria.

From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell; Jewel Thompson of Opelika in Lee County, champion; Walker Johnson of Cullman in Cullman County, reserve champion; Audra Graves of Cleveland in Blount County, third; Trace Strock of Marbury in Autauga County, fourth; and Heather Gladney of Buhl in Tuscaloosa County, fifth.

intermediate showmanship top five intermediate showmanship Champion Makayla Walker, right, of Toney in Madison County won the Intermediate Showmanship Contest. She is pictured with her sister, Cheyenne.

From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell; Makayla Walker of Toney in Madison County, champion; Dow Boyd of Dothan, Coffee County, reserve champion; Curt Williams of Blountsville in Marshall County, third; Mackenzie Smith of Guntersville in Marshall County, fourth; and Caden Childers of Hartselle in Morgan County, fifth.

junior showmanship top five Junior showmanship Champion Greer Jones, right, of Brundidge in Pike County won the Junior Showmanship Contest.

He is pictured with Cole Eubanks.

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From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell; Greer Jones of Brundidge in Pike County, champion; JohnMark Challancin of Troy in Pike County, reserve champion; Mason Smith of Guntersville in Marshall County, third; Cole Eubanks of Cullman in Cullman County, fourth; and Callie Rae Childers of Hartselle in Morgan County, fifth. alfafarmers.org

2021 Market Show

Top Five winners are pictured with Federation President Jimmy Parnell and judge Scott Werning of South Dakota.

Sponsored by Great Southern Wood Caden Childers of Hartselle in Morgan County exhibited the 3rd Overall steer. It was also the champion Chianina.

third overall

Sponsored by Poarch Band of Creek Indians Greer Jones of Brundidge in Pike County exhibited the grand champion steer. It was also the Crossbred champion.

supreme Grand Champion

Sponsored by Farm Bureau Bank Lexi Bolding of Maplesville in Chilton County exhibited the 4th Overall steer. It was also the champion Mainetainer.

fourth overall

Sponsored by SLE Rodeo

reserve grand Champion

Walker Johnson of Cullman in Cullman County exhibited the reserve grand champion steer. It was also the Crossbred reserve champion.

Sponsored by U.S. Foods Bryn Lake of Arley in Winston County exhibited the 5th Overall steer. It was also the champion Charolais.

fifth overall

Market Show Division Winners

Corley Williams of Arab in Marshall County exhibited the champion AOB British steer. alfafarmers.org

Mason Smith of Guntersville in Marshall County exhibited the champion AOB Continental steer.

Greer Jones of Brundidge in Pike County exhibited the champion Market Heifer.

John Thrailkill of Prattville in Autauga County exhibited the champion Performance Documented steer.

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2021 Heifer Show

Top Five winners are pictured with Alabama Farmers Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan and judge Jim Bloomberg of Illinois.

Sponsored by Cowboy Tag Avery Ruf of Athens in Limestone County exhibited the 3rd Overall heifer. It was also the champion Commercial heifer.

third overall

Sponsored by Alabama Power Avery Ruf of Athens in Limestone County exhibited the grand champion heifer. It was also the champion Angus heifer.

supreme Grand Champion

Sponsored by Friends of JBE Natalie Lovell of Athens in Limestone County exhibited the 4th Overall heifer. It was also the champion All Other Breeds – Continental heifer.

fourth overall

reserve grand Champion

Sponsored by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative

Annabelle Wesley of Troy in Pike County exhibited the reserve grand champion heifer. It was also the champion Chianina heifer.

Sponsored by Alabama Municipal Electric Natalie Lovell of Athens in Limestone County exhibited the 5th Overall heifer. It was also the reserve champion Commercial heifer.

fifth overall

Heifer Show Division Winners

Colt Thomas of Phil Campbell in Franklin County exhibited the champion AOB British.

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Matthew Speros of Banks in Pike County exhibited the champion Alabama B&O AOB British.

Will McClelland of Mathews in Montgomery County exhibited the champion Brahman and champion Alabama B&O Brahman.

Cole Eubanks of Cullman in Cullman County exhibited the champion Charolais and champion Alabama B&O Charolais. alfafarmers.org

Tyler Crim of Elrod in Tuscaloosa County exhibited the champion B&O Chianina.

Karleigh Allison of Horton in Blount County exhibited the champion Hereford.

Olivia Maddox of Collinsville in DeKalb County exhibited the champion Alabama B&O Hereford.

Annabelle Wesley of Troy in Pike County exhibited the champion Mainetainer.

Ashbee Norman of Ramer in Montgomery County exhibited the champion Red Angus.

Abby Allred of Jemison in Chilton County exhibited the champion Shorthorn.

Abby Allred of Jemison in Chilton County exhibited the champion Shorthorn Plus.

Hannah Childress of Thorsby in Chilton County exhibited the champion Alabama B&O Shorthorn Plus.

Alabama 4-H

Club Foundation, Inc.

Carson Fallin of Blountsville in Blount County exhibited the champion Simmental.

Audra Graves of Cleveland in Blount County exhibited the champion Alabama B&O Simmental.

Cattlewomen’s Scholarship

Gus Ashley of Hope Hull in Montgomery County exhibited the champion Alabama B&O AOB Continental.

Thank You To Our Gold Sponsors

COUNTY FARMERS FEDERATIONS

Pantone 357 Pantone 160 Pantone 116 Black

Sponsored by Alabama CattleWomen Heather Gladney of Buhl in Tuscaloosa County received the $500 Louise Wilson Alabama CattleWomen’s Scholarship during the Showmanship Contest. She is pictured with Scholarship Committee Chairs Mona Plyler and Shelby Windham.

Louise Wilson Scholarship

alfafarmers.org

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2021 Bred & Owned Top Five

Top Five winners are pictured with Alabama Farmers Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan and judge Jim Bloomberg of Illinois.

Sponsored by AT&T Caden Childers of Hartselle in Morgan County exhibited the 3rd Overall Alabama B&O heifer. It was also champion Alabama B&O Mainetainer.

third overall

Sponsored by Alabama Farm Credit Jewel Thompson of Opelika in Lee County exhibited the grand champion Alabama B&O heifer. It was also champion Alabama B&O Shorthorn.

Grand Champion

Sponsored by Alabama Beef Checkoff Audra Graves of Cleveland in Blount County exhibited the 4th Overall Alabama B&O heifer. It was also champion Alabama B&O Angus.

fourth overall

reserve grand Champion

Sponsored by Alabama Wheat and Feed Grain Producers

Caden Childers of Hartselle in Morgan County exhibited the reserve grand champion Alabama B&O heifer. It was also champion Alabama B&O Percentage Simmental.

Sponsored by First South Farm Credit Curt Williams of Arab in Marshall County exhibited the 5th Overall Alabama B&O heifer. It was also reserve champion Alabama B&O Angus.

fifth overall

Special Thanks To Our Platinum Sponsors

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for full show results, the exposition program, links to photos and the streamed video of the event. alfafarmers.org

How did you meet your wife?

We met at the grocery store in Columbus. I was the rookie at the station and was sent to run errands. I saw Donna one day at the checkout line, and five months later, we were married.

Jay Buckley State Beef Committee member Jay Buckley loves family history, hunting, spending time with his grandchildren and making improvements to his Lamar County cattle farm.

Buckley’s family has called Sulligent home since the 1800s. After working as a firefighter and paramedic in Columbus, Mississippi, Buckley moved home in 2004 with his wife, Donna, and three daughters. Buckley, 56, also serves on the Lamar County Farmers Federation board and is a former Alabama Cattlemen’s Association regional vice president.

How did you get involved in Alfa Farmers?

I got involved because of the insurance. We live so far out, Alfa was about the only one that would insure us. I got involved with the county beef committee and am now serving my second term on the State Beef Committee.

What issues do you face on your property?

There are bad issues with wild hogs tearing up land.

We’re working to eliminate, or at least reduce, that problem.

Why did you become a firefighter?

After high school, I was helping out a local farmer.

One day, he didn’t come to the door; turns out, he’d had a heart attack, and I was able to use my paramedic skills to help save his life. That was when I knew what I wanted to do.

Public Notice

By Alabama Pork Producers And National Pork Board The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2022 National Pork Producers (Pork Act) Delegate Body will take place June 1st, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. CDT, in conjunction with a Board of Directors meeting of the Alabama Pork Producers Association at Full Moon Bar-B-Que, located at 5042 Bond Boulevard, Bessemer, AL 35022. All Alabama pork producers are invited to attend.

Any producer, age 18 or older, who is a resident of the state and has paid all assessments due may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or participate in the election. All eligible producers are encouraged to bring with them a sales receipt proving that hogs were sold in their name and the checkoff deducted.

For more information contact: Alabama Pork Producers, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, AL 36191-0001; telephone (334) 612-5181; email rdurrance@alfafarmers.org. alfafarmers.org

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$76 MILLION IN EXPORTS

unitedsoybean.org

for Alabama Soybean Farmers

OVERSEAS

cropportunity IS WHAT WE DO

Last year, Alabama exported $76 million worth of soybeans.

That’s a lot of overseas #Cropportunity for one year. And we’re always seeking new market #Cropportunities abroad to help keep this demand going strong. And if you’re wondering how far your soybeans can go …

JUST WATCH US

Source: Office of the United States Trade Representative

#CROPPORTUNITY

I

TO CATCH A FISH

am about to go fishing. Don’t ask why. You don’t need a reason to go fishing. It is reasonless work.

My late father-in-law taught me that.

Certainly, some men fish like they are on a mission for the U.S. government. These men are either constipated, or they drink Coke Zero.

But for most of us, fishing is just sitting on a boat and fighting off dehydration. It is a beautiful waste of time. And it is even more wasteful when you throw fish back, like I do.

I haven’t always released fish. I used to keep them, and I would even pay to get the big ones mounted.

In my office, for example, there are five fish on the wall. In my den, six.

Somewhere along the way, I started releasing fish. I would drag them into the boat, and I couldn’t bring myself to gut them. So I would remove the hook, name the fish and let them go.

The first one I ever named was while fishing with my father-in-law, Brother Jim. I caught a speckled trout on a number-six hook, and I felt bad for the fish. I kept thinking about what it must be like to be a speckled trout. I wondered if the fish missed his mama. I don’t know what came over me.

Then, Brother Jim and I got to talking about how the fish probably had a nice life underwater and a happy family and belonged to a good school.

Brother Jim even started crying about

it because at the time he was suffering severe heat exhaustion.

So we agreed to name the fish.

“James Martin is the perfect name for this little guy,” said Brother Jim, wiping his eyes. “That’s my name.”

And he was right, the Martins have a very specific list of unique traits.

They all have intense eyes and wild personalities, just like fish. Plus, they are Baptist. And it is a well-known fact that all fish believe in full immersion.

So we settled on James Martin Delacroix III. We set the trout free.

And I’ve been releasing fish ever since.

So fishing isn’t all about catching fish. In fact, my wife doesn’t even expect me to arrive home with fish anymore. Whenever she wants fish, she pays $16.99 per pound for it.

Anyway, my friend has arrived in my driveway. Matthew is a good fishing buddy, and a nice guy.

Nice people are everywhere. That’s one thing which intrigues me.

You grow up learning the opposite.

Teachers, preachers, and folks in the bleachers often spread the idea that all people are selfish. I won’t believe it.

Don’t get me wrong; unkind people are out there. But they are a minority.

I’ve met too many saints to believe otherwise.

Anyway. Fishing. I’m looking forward to saying hello to James Martin Delacroix III today.

You are missed, Brother Jim. ■

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

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Land Transfer Clears Way For Progress At Alabama Farm Center

By Jeff Helms he Clanton City Council voted unanimously March 8 to transfer 500 T acres to the Alabama Agriculture and

Exhibition Center Cooperative District, clearing way for site preparation for the Alabama Farm Center at Alfa Centennial Park. The Chilton County Commission, which jointly owned the property with the city, approved the deed in February.

“This is going to be a real big deal for Clanton,” said Mayor Jeff Mims.

Following applause from those in attendance he added, “…not only for Clanton and Chilton County, but also Thorsby, Jemison and Maplesville.

I want to thank all those folks for contributing on this project and trying to make it happen. We look forward to many years together — making some good things happen.”

Plans for the Alabama Farm Center include a 5,000-seat arena, 100,000-square-foot exhibition building, 400-stall horse barn, 400 recreational vehicle hookups and other barns and arenas. The site of the multi-use event complex is located along I-65 at Exit 212.

Council Member Billy Singleton made the motion to approve the land transfer.

“I’m confident we can continue to work with our partners — the Chilton County Commission, the (Alabama) Farmers Federation and Alfa — to not only ensure the Alabama Farm Center is a success, but that this project will create economic opportunity and help to improve the quality of life for the residents of Clanton and Chilton County,” he said. “This a huge step to a more prosperous future for our children and grandchildren.”

The Federation’s Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation announced Chilton County as the winning site for

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Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell gave an update on the Alabama Farm Center during the Jr. Beef Expo in Montgomery.

The livestock show is just one example of events the new center in Clanton can house.

Groundbreaking is expected this year.

Alfa Centennial Park in 2019. Since then, the Federation, along with the city of Clanton and Chilton County, worked to organize governance structures for the complex, secure permits and work with the builder and architect on construction plans. Transferring the land to the cooperative district clears way for groundbreaking later this year to coincide with the Federation’s 100th anniversary.

Federation Area Organization Director David Heflin serves as chairman of the cooperative district board of directors.

“On behalf of Alfa, we are happy to be in this position and can continue to move forward,” Heflin said. “We think this is going to have a great economic

impact, not only on the city of Clanton and Chilton County but all of central Alabama.”

Chilton County Commission Chair Joseph Parnell said he looks forward to seeing the project and the community grow. He said permit approval from the Army Corps of Engineers is expected in May with groundbreaking by summer.

“This facility, upon completion, will be about a $250 million project,” he said. “This project is supposed to bring about 900,000 tourists a year into the little city of Clanton and Chilton County.

That is a game changer.

“We all know our location is perfect,” he added. “There’s nowhere else that’s better suited for this. We’re halfway between Birmingham and Montgomery. We’re halfway between Mobile and Huntsville. We’re halfway between Jackson, Miss., and Atlanta.

We are poised to grow. We’ve got leadership in the city — in all of our cities — and the county that wants to see our county capitalize on this opportunity to become a place where our children and grandchildren will want to live and where other people will want to come to settle with their families. We feel like we can build a project where we can retain who we are and still see the economic growth. The initial phase of this project will put about $250 million into our economy within about a three-year period.”

Overall, Alfa Centennial Park is expected to generate 2,200 jobs. The site also will be home to a Workforce Development Center with state-of-theart classrooms and hands-on training facilities. The Chilton County Workforce Development Committee is working with Jefferson State Community College to identify employment gaps and design education programs to fill those needs. alfafarmers.org

alfafarmers.org

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The everyday card for Farm Bureau members.

Farm Bureau® Member Rewards Mastercard®

Carry the card that rewards Farm Bureau® membership!

Use our card every day and earn triple, double, or single points on select purchases1. Plus, we’ll pay your Farm Bureau membership renewal dues!2 Contact your local agent to apply!

Eligible purchases mean any signature or pin-based, online, phone or mail-order purchase made with the Farm Bureau Member Rewards MasterCard. Offer excludes Cash Advances, Balance Transfers, credits and returns. Points expire after four full years.

Program may change or be cancelled at anytime. Triple reward points on qualifying transactions based on merchant code, up to $1,500 quarterly. Credit Card plastic design may vary based on member’s qualification.

2 State eligibility and minimum annual spend requirements for membership dues reimbursement vary by state and can be found on farmbureau.bank. Please see Terms and Conditions on farmbureau.bank for additional details about the Farm Bureau Member Rewards MasterCard. MasterCard, including rates, fees, the reward program rules (including points accrual rate, bonus points awards, etc.) and the benefits associated with the use of this credit card program. Banking services provided by Farm Bureau Bank, FSB. Farm Bureau, FB, and the FB National Logo are registered service marks owned by, and used by Farm Bureau Bank FSB under license from, the American Farm Bureau Federation.FBMRMC_03.2020 1

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By Lois Chaplin ave you ever made a cup of Red H Zinger tea? That mesmerizing swirl of red from the tea bag comes from

a plant called roselle, a hibiscus also responsible for the tea’s tangy zing. It is rich in pigments such as anthocyanins, and it is high in iron, magnesium and vitamins A and C. The taste is distinctly sour — in a good way. Roselle has been cultivated on and off for decades in the South, mostly by gardeners who focus on herbs for refreshment and tonic.

Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa var sabdariffa), is native to tropical India, Malaysia and West Africa but is grown around the world. Although naturally perennial, it can be cultivated as an annual. In Alabama, the growing season is long enough and hot enough that it quickly produces fruit, just like okra. The tangy leaves are edible, too; tiny, new leaves are tender enough for salad or stir fry.

Fast-growing roselle typically grows 3 to 5 feet high by end of summer. Like its relative, okra, it is cold sensitive.

Seeds can be directly planted in the warm ground in May; they could have also been started in a cold frame or greenhouse a month earlier.

Alabama

Dried roselle

The plants begin fruiting in late summer and early fall when shorter day length triggers flowering. Flowers develop progressively from the lowest part of a branch to the tip. Each fruit is usually harvest size about a week or two after the flower fades. The edible section is the red, fleshy wrapper of each fruit, called the calyx. To separate the calyx, slice through the fruit on the stem end. The whole calyx separates from the round seed pod it is wrapped around. Seeds (inside the round seed pod) are easy to save for the next year.

Frequent harvesting encourages more fruit to form, so pick often for the maximum harvest. Young fruit will snap from the stem with your fingers. As the fruit gets older, it hangs tough and will have to be clipped off.

Roselle recipe variety may surprise gardeners. Uses include refreshing drinks, fermented kombucha, simple syrup and jelly. This plant is also called jelly okra because of its high pectin content. Recipe variations for jelly include a spicy Indian chutney. In Mexico and the Caribbean, a variety

of roselle beverages are known as Agua de Jamaica, or hibiscus iced tea.

Some are brewed with ginger and orange peel. The simplest use is to steep a few calyxes in hot water to make tea.

According to the late Julia Morton, an ethno-botanist in Miami, Florida, roselle was brought to the area in 1887 via the U.S. Department of Agriculture subtropical lab in Eustis, Florida. It was a common Florida home garden crop until after World War II. It became known as “Florida cranberry” for its cranberry-like color and tart flavor — a good substitute for the true cranberry sauce of the North.

Extra harvest keeps in the freezer or is easily stored in dehydrated form.

Dehydrated roselle will make the perfect cup of hot tea next winter.

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

Growing Graciously Good Gardens E ALAFARM.COM alfafarmers.org

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Alabama Extension Launches Crops Podcast

By Katie Nichols he Alabama Crops Report Podcast is where research meets the row.

T When time is tight and every minute

matters, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System crops team ensures decision-making is simpler for farmers by bringing Extension expertise straight to the tractor cab.

Available for listening pleasure any time, the Alabama Crops Report Podcast series is accessible on most major podcast platforms.

Mike Phillips, the new director of Alabama Extension, said the podcast is one way Extension personnel are taking knowledge to the farm.

“This has been a hard year for farmers and their families,” said Phillips, formerly Extension’s assistant director of agriculture, forestry and natural resources programming. “While our

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team never stopped working to meet the needs of Alabama farmers, there have been many challenges to overcome.

The Alabama Crops Report Podcast is just one way our agents and specialists can get information to our farmers in a timely manner no matter where they are.”

Scott Graham, an Extension entomologist and one of the podcast hosts, said the COVID-19 pandemic made Extension professionals re-evaluate their methods and take steps to more effectively help stakeholders.

“When the world seemingly shut down, our growers were still farming and still needed solutions for their management problems,” Graham said.

“We hope to use this avenue as a way to expand on our Alabama Crops Report

Newsletter to provide more in-depth information on important topics.”

Producers will hear a wide range of topics throughout the year. From insect scouting tips to fertilizer application recommendations and harvest updates — timely issues in the field will be addressed by agents and specialists from all over the state. Episodes will be 10 to 15 minutes long in a conversational form. New episodes will drop weekly during the production season. Graham said in cases where there are several important topics to discuss, there may be multiple episodes in a week.

Graham, Katelyn Kesheimer, Amanda Scherer and Adam Rabinowitz will take turns interviewing Extension specialists, regional agents and agronomists about what is happening in the field.

“As technology evolves, we plan to grow with it,” Graham said. “This podcast allows us to share information in an efficient — and hopefully entertaining — manner that lets farmers listen in the truck, tractor or office at any time that is convenient for them.”

Graham said the crops team looks forward to helping Alabama producers navigate the growing season in-person, through their newsletter and via the Alabama Crops Report Podcast.

Listen to podcast episodes on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify and Stitcher.

alfafarmers.org

How has agriculture evolved in your lifetime?

I’ve gone from picking cotton and using cotton wagons to building cotton modules and needing more workers to sending two guys to the field with a round-bale picker.

Dan Rhyne Triple R Farms is a family effort, according to Dan Rhyne. He and his son, Daniel, grow corn, cotton, soybeans and wheat in Lowndes, Dallas and Autauga counties and look forward to the next generation, Daniel Thomas Rhyne III, joining the farm. Rhyne, 66, has been married to wife Patricia for 43 years. They have two daughters, Laura and Emily, in addition to Daniel, and four grandchildren. Rhyne serves on the State Wheat & Feed Grain Committee, Lowndes County Farmers Federation board and teaches Sunday School at Benton United Methodist Church.

alfafarmers.org

How would you advise young farmers?

Get your education. Farming requires a lot of chemistry now, a lot of technology. If something’s not working, change it. And find good help. We have good employees, and I want to brag on them. A lot of them have grown up on the farm and enjoy the work.

Why do you like farming?

I enjoy working outside. Don’t put me behind a desk.

On a perfect day, I’d go climb on a cotton picker or get in a combine and just drive.

What’s Something few people know?

I’m a NASCAR fan and have been to Daytona and Talladega. I’d like to visit Bristol.

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Quick and Easy Quiche

Prep Time

Cook Time

Servings

10 mins

25 mins

6 to 8

Ingredients 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup chopped cooked ham or bacon 1 9-inch regular frozen prepared pie crust, thawed 4 eggs 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Re c

Heat oven to 375 F. Sprinkle cheese and ham or bacon in the bottom of the pie crust. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt and pepper.

Pour egg mixture into the crust. Place the pie on a rimmed baking sheet and bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until the quiche is just set. Allow to rest 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

ith the onset of summer, folks W are looking for quick, easy and healthy ideas for quick meals and

grab-and-go snacks. Fortunately, May is National Egg Month, and this staple is a budget-friendly ingredient that can transform into whatever the occasion calls for!

I’m excited to bring you some of my favorite egg recipes this month.

Eggs are a protein powerhouse, with 9 grams of protein in just one large egg.

They’re a great choice for all of us, from on-the-go youngsters to us older folks looking for a heart-healthy or even keto diet.

You know we can’t share egg recipes without talking deviled eggs. I make mine just a bit different than most, opting for black pepper rather than the popular paprika and substituting dill instead of sweet pickle relish.

One question I’m asked most often regarding deviled eggs is how to cook them so they are easy to peel. There are two keys to having perfectly peeled

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May 2021

eggs: egg age and cooking method.

For an easily peeled egg, it’s best if your eggs aren’t too fresh. I put mine back a week or two ahead of time as that can make a significant difference.

The real game changer is cooking method. While most of our moms likely boiled eggs on the stovetop, today’s cooks have discovered steaming eggs is the way to go for shells that peel like a dream. If you have an Instant Pot, simply use the steam setting. However, you might want to treat yourself to one of those new budget-friendly countertop egg cookers, which also use steam to cook the eggs. Our little countertop cooker has become a favorite of the whole family, and boiled eggs are now a popular snack and quick breakfast in my home. Considering how economical and nutritious eggs are, this is a win all around. If you don’t have either appliance, don’t worry. I’ve included instructions for steaming them on the stovetop.

Whenever I have a busy week

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ahead, I love to whip up a quiche or two to keep at the ready in the fridge.

Whereas scrambled eggs don’t reheat well, a slice of quiche reheats in the microwave as if it were freshly made. It’s simple to customize ingredients to your tastes, so add whatever you’d want in an omelet. This low-fuss dish should be in every cook’s arsenal as it makes a great breakfast, lunch or last-minute supper.

Last, but certainly not least, when it comes to comfort food, eggs deliver. My Bacon and Eggs Tater Tot Casserole will bring ‘em running to the table with its layers of crispy tots, smoky bacon and cheesy egg goodness. While it looks like I went all in making this, looks are deceiving, as it takes minutes to throw together.

Next time you’re in the grocery (or at the coop), grab a few extra eggs, and let this versatile ingredient make mealtime easy and delicious.

Stacey Little is a foodie, recipe developer and cookbook author whose Southern Bite blog helps families put simple, down-to-earth food on the table while preserving Southern cooking for future generations. See more recipes at southernbite.com. alfafarmers.org

Bacon and Eggs Tater Tot Casserole

Prep Time

Cook Time

Servings

20 mins

50 mins

6 to 8

Ingredients 1 (1-pound) package bacon 1 (32-ounce) package frozen Tater Tots 8 large eggs 1/2 cup milk 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 3 green onions, chopped 1 (8-ounce) package shredded colby jack cheese Salsa

Instructions Cook bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels. Crumble and set aside.

Heat oven to 350 F and lightly spray a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Line bottom of the baking dish with Tater Tots.

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, salt and pepper. Add half the bacon, half the green onions and half the cheese. Stir well. Pour mixture evenly over the Tater Tots.

Bake uncovered 45 to 50 minutes or until eggs are set and Tater Tots are heated through. Sprinkle with remaining bacon, green onions and cheese. Return dish to the oven and cook 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted. Serve warm topped with salsa.

Classic Southern Deviled Eggs

Prep Time

Cook Time

Makes

20 mins

15 mins

12 halves

Ingredients 6 large eggs 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 1/2 teaspoons yellow mustard 2 dashes vinegar-based hot sauce 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1 1/2 tablespoons pickle relish, sweet or dill Salt Pepper Paprika (optional)

Instructions For easy-to-peel eggs, steam rather than boil them. To do so, add about 1/2 inch of water to the bottom of a medium-sized saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Add a steamer basket if you have one.

Over medium-high heat, bring water to a boil. Turn heat off. Carefully add eggs to the basket or to the bottom of the pan. Cover and return to a boil. Steam 12 to 15 minutes. To check the doneness, add an extra egg and check it at 12 minutes to judge the cook time. Once cooked, place eggs in an ice bath until they are completely cool.

Peel eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the yolk and place it in a small bowl. Use a fork to mash up the yolks. Add mayonnaise, mustard, hot sauce and garlic powder. Mix until smooth. Add pickle relish. Add salt and pepper to taste. Spoon the mixture equally back into the whites. Sprinkle with a dash of paprika, if desired. Refrigerate until serving. alfafarmers.org

May 2021

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