Neighbors Magazine, July 2015 by Alabama Farmers Federation

A tradition worth passing down. From one generation to the next, Alfa Insurance® protects families with great rates and service from hometown agents. Just ask the Haynes family. Before their quadruplets were born, Bruce and Tammy chose Alfa® for their home, cars and life insurance. Now that the quads are grown and their older daughter has a family of Meet the Haynes family at AlfaInsurance.com

her own, Bruce and Tammy are glad to know Alfa is a company their kids and grandkids can trust.

Alfa Insurance® Find a local agent: 1-800-964-2532 • AlfaInsurance.com

Ask about Alfa’s homeowners legacy discount for children of longtime customers.

VOLUME 40, NUMBER 7

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

JULY 2015

_____________________________________

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 Don Allison, Arley Joe Roberts, Fayette Dell Hill, Alpine Richard Edgar, Deatsville Dan Robertson, Uniontown Garry Henry, Hope Hull Carl Sanders, Brundidge Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Fred Helms, Dothan Cheryl Lassiter, Silas Garrett Henry, Hope Hull

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.

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation J U LY 2 0 1 5

Crop Revival

Plowing New Ground

13 Learning From The Land 16 Farmers Market Freshness

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

www.AlfaFarmers.org

Taking Ag To Classrooms

10 FFA State Convention

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.

20 Alabama’s Teacher Of The Year 22 Members Travel To DC 28 Tempting Tomato Treats

On The Cover 28

Billy and Martha Peters of Slocomb offer fresh fruits and vegetables at the new Enterprise Farmers Market. Photo by Debra Davis.

BE SURE TO VISIT OUR SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS

YouTube.com/AlabamaFarmersFed

Twitter.com/AlfaFarmers

Facebook.com/AlabamaFarmers

Flickr.com/AlabamaFarmers/Sets

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

Teaching The Teachers At Ag In The Classroom Teachers climb a tire pyramid while touring Tate Farms, a row crop and agritourism farm in Meridianville that hosts about 100,000 visitors annually.

By Marlee Moore

he tables turned on 80 Alabama educators as they stepped outside the classroom and onto the farm at the Ag in the Classroom (AITC) Summer Institute in Huntsville June 3-5. Teachers of kindergartners through sixth-graders became students at the 15th annual institute as they attended workshops and farm tours. Teachers visited Belle Chevre, a goat cheese creamery in Elkmont; Meridianville’s Tate Farms, an agritourism and row crop operation; and Mullins Farm, a honey and blueberry operation. “These teachers are seeing farms first hand, sometimes for the first time,” said AITC State Committee Chairman Kim Ramsey. “They’re

getting to ask questions to real farmers and are receiving information they can implement in their classrooms.” Renee Lyons, a 22-year classroom veteran, attended the institute for the first time this year. “Visiting the farms has absolutely been wonderful,” said Lyons, a second-grade teacher at Huntsville’s Highland Elementary School. “Now I have pictures to show students what happens on a working farm.” The teachers received ageappropriate literature, DVDs and curriculum about farming, the environment and agricultural misconceptions. Lyons said she is excited to teach students the life

lessons she learned at AITC. “In the past, I’ve had students come to me and ask where their chocolate milk comes from,” she said. “Now I can speak to them with authority and explain where their food originates.” Mike Tate, whose family farm dates back to 1946, visited with teachers and helped conduct tours on the farm. He said he was grateful to show educators his family’s heritage and agritourism operation. “It’s important (to host visitors) because, in today’s world, there are many people who have never had hands-on experience on the farm,” Tate said. “Anything we can do to add to their experiences in agriculture is a good thing.”

Left: Teachers race on giant slides at Tate Farms. Right: A panel of farmers educates teachers about agricultural issues, including Waters of the U.S., poultry production and GMOs. Panel members were, from left, Stewart McGill, Rex Vaughn, Stan Usery, Jerry Allen Newby and Brandon Moore. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

J U LY 2 0 1 5

Above: Mike Tate, center, discusses his family’s Tate Farms in Meridianville. From left are Renee Lyons of Highland Elementary in Huntsville, Bob Brechtel of Sparkman Junior High in Hartselle, Tate, Brandon Price-Crum of EAT South in Montgomery and AITC State Committee Chairman Kim Ramsey. Right: Todd Mullins shows AITC participants how honey is collected from hives at Bill’s Honey Farm in Meridianville.

That experience is one Lyons said she won’t soon forget. “I would definitely recommend any teacher attend the AITC institute,” Lyons said. “I have already started making a plan about the things I am going to do in the classroom.” AITC is sponsored by the Ala-

bama Farmers Federation and primarily funded through the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation’s ag tag sales. Other sponsors include the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries and state agriculture organizations. Ramsey, who is the Federation Women’s Leadership director, said

teachers already are making plans to attend next year’s summer institute and are excited to share facts about agriculture with the next generation. “It’s important for us to share agricultural information with teachers so students can share these truths with their families,” Ramsey said. “That’s the most effective way to teach agriculture.” n

Need a lift? Call Alfa. ®

Alfa® is pleased to announce our new Roadside Assistance coverage, which replaces the current Emergency Road Service (if this coverage is shown on your declaration). New benefits under Roadside Assistance include: • An increased limit of up to $100 for any one occurrence. • A new sign and drive option eliminating out of pocket expenses (up to $100). • Locksmith labor to unlock your car if a key is lost, stolen or inside your vehicle.

For 24/7 service, call

1-800-964-2532 J U LY 2 0 1 5

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

Grain Sorghum Seen As Potential Money Maker By A.J. Watson

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

Above: Elmore County farmer Richard Edgar planted grain sorghum as a substitute for corn earlier this year. Left: Grain sorghum grows in dry conditions and matures faster than other grain crops.

Alabama farmers. “We planted 400 acres ourselves, and in my home county of Limestone we’ve seen more than we usually have,” said Looney, Federation district 2 director. “There’s not a whole lot of transition cost when planting sorghum. It seems like we can make a good yield.” Extension Economist Max Runge said production cost of sorghum is less than corn, but farmers need to evaluate operations to make the best financial decision. “According to our budgets, corn costs $450 an acre to produce and grain sorghum costs $300,” Runge said. “For being able to put sorghum in at two-thirds the cost of corn, it gives farmers an option to cut costs while still making money. Every farm is a little different, so it’s important to estimate your costs, time and labor spent growing the crop.” n ©iStock.com/DustyPixel

armers navigating the desert of poor commodity prices and high input costs may want to hitch a ride on the camel of crops — grain sorghum. Sorghum, or milo, has been around for thousands of years and grows in dry conditions where other crops would perish. Elmore County farmer Richard Edgar said he planted milo for a variety of reasons this year. “In past years, corn prices have been better than sorghum, but this year it’s 50 cents above corn, so it was a little more attractive to plant,” said Edgar, Alabama Farmers Federation district 7 director. “Also, it was cold and wet when we needed to plant corn, so we planted sorghum as a kind of backup crop.” Charles Mitchell of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System said the idea of planting grain sorghum in feed-deficit Alabama isn’t new. “Back in the ‘80s there was a big push to grow grain sorghum to feed livestock — mainly the poultry industry,” said Mitchell, agronomy and soils specialist with Extension. “The attractiveness of grain sorghum is it doesn’t require the water corn does. But, it does have insect problems and the sugarcane aphid.” In addition to feeding on crops, sugarcane aphid coats sorghum leaves with honeydew, a black fungus, causing combines to clog by reducing movement of material through the machine. A report from the Wall St. Daily found China is fueling the demand

for grain sorghum. U.S. farmers are expected to produce 5.8 million tons in 2014-2015, with about 5 million tons bound for China. Limestone County farmer Paul Looney said this is the first year he’s planted grain sorghum since the ‘80s, but he sees increased interest in the crop among north 6

J U LY 2 0 1 5

Women In Ag Plowing New Ground

By Marlee Moore

Above: Delle Bean, left, has plowed new ground for women for 40 years while operating Del-Ray Ranch in Calhoun County with her husband, Ray. Left: Wendy Yeager is the primary farmer of 940 acres of row crops, in addition to juggling duties as a wife, mother, aerobics instructor and Dallas County Young Farmers chairman.

Female Farmer Facts • • • • •

Women in ag-related fields rose 21 percent in the past 10 years. Farms operated by women nearly tripled from 5 to 14 percent in the past 30 years. Women studying agriculture at U.S. land grant universities outnumber men by more than 2,900 students. In 2013, females were 55 percent of Auburn University College of Agriculture’s 1,300 students. Auburn’s 2014 College of Agriculture freshman class was 62 percent female.

Sources: 2012 USDA Census of Agriculture; a Food and Agricultural Education Information System study; and the Auburn University College of Agriculture.

cursory glance at Wendy Yeager shows dark hair in a barrette, a diamond wedding band, blue nail polish, dusty boots and a farmer’s tan. But an in-depth look at the 36-year-old shows a farmer concerned about rain, her wheat crop and soybean seed delivery. “I truly believe farming — when it’s in your blood — is undeniable,” said Yeager, the primary operator of

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

940-acre Bell Place Farm. “It’s not every day you pull up to a farm and see a woman get off a tractor at her full-time job. But that’s me, and I’m proud of it.” Yeager’s husband of 10 years, Jamie, works on the Dallas County farm, too, but his main job is running Marion Junction’s Black Belt Research and Extension Center a few miles away. Yeager is one of thousands of 8

moms and wives plowing new ground for females in agriculture nationwide. According to the 2012 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Census of Agriculture, the past 10 years marked a 21 percent rise in women working in ag-related fields. Likewise, female enrollment at land grant universities, including Auburn University, has jumped in recent years. “If agriculture is something you have a passion for, stay strong when you’re knocked down,” said Yeager, who grew up on a Conecuh County farm. “Get up; dust yourself off, and persevere.” Yeager’s can-do attitude is something she hopes to pass along to her daughters, Casey, 7, and Lillian, 5, who often join her in the cab of the tractor. “I want them to know they can do anything they set their minds to,” said Yeager, who has served four years as Dallas County Farmers Federation Young Farmers chairman. “If it’s farming or maybe something else, they can do it if they really want to.” Likewise, Dale County farmer Monica Carroll tells her 15-year-old daughter, Brittany, she can be whatever she wants — a veterinarian, teacher, farmer — as long as she’s passionate.

J U LY 2 0 1 5

Thanks to Carroll and Yeager, their daughters are being raised in homes with strong female agricultural role models. “Growing up, I never pictured myself farming,” said Carroll, 44. “But somewhere along the road I realized that you eat, wear and live agriculture, and I never looked back.” In 1995, Carroll graduated from Auburn University, married her college sweetheart, Chris, and began work with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, an organization that actively sought women and minorities. “Once women in agriculture realize they’re just as effective as men, they enjoy their work,” said Carroll. Today, the hard-working mom of Brittany and Blake, 13, manages four poultry houses at 4C Land and Cattle Co., while Chris stays focused on cattle and row crops. Like Yeager, Carroll said she constantly faces new challenges, but both women refuse to let gender define their success. “No matter what, I take a deep breath, roll up my sleeves and get the job done, because I know it’s a blessing to tend to God’s country,” Carroll said. Yeager’s biggest challenge may be when an ag salesman visits the farm and asks for her husband, something Yeager said she turns into an educational opportunity. “I tell them he’s at his job, and I’m at mine,” Yeager said. “If there’s an opportunity to prove someone wrong, I will.” Delle Bean has experienced some of those frustrations — and the fruit of patience and perseverance — for 40 years. “Women in agriculture must do a superior job in the same field as men to prove themselves,” said Bean, who operates Del-Ray Ranch J U LY 2 0 1 5

Dale County farmer Monica Carroll tells her daughter, Brittany, she can be whatever she wants as long as she’s passionate.

in Calhoun County with her husband, Ray. “We’re not accepted until we’re seen in action.” Through the years, Bean, 63, multitasked as she raised two sons, Rusty and Josh, ran the farm, managed the house and more. Carroll, Yeager and countless other women understand the juggling routine. “Don’t get discouraged,” Bean advised. “I’m a lot more respected now because people have seen me do my job and do it well.”

Alabama Farmers Federation’s Carla Hornady is breaking new ground and gender barriers, too. She credits her success as the Federation’s Cotton, Soybean and Wheat & Feed Grains Divisions director to her parents and farmers. “Growing up, I was never told I couldn’t do something because I was a girl,” said Hornady, 38, the only female commodity director. “Many of my committee members are thankful I serve in this position and encourage me. As long as I do my job efficiently and effectively, we don’t have a problem.” Yeager, Carroll, Bean and Hornady said they don’t see themselves as females in agriculture. They’re simply farmers, commodity directors, chauffeurs, cooks, mechanics, seamstresses and parents — nurturing their families, friends, fields and faith. n Carla Hornady, Federation Cotton, Soybean and Wheat & Feed Grains Divisions director, is breaking down gender barriers as a female commodity director.

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

Students Share Agriculture’s Meaning At FFA Convention By A.J. Watson

downpour during FFA Night at the Biscuits’ Riverwalk Stadium didn’t dampen the mood of more than 2,000 FFA students, advisers, parents and guests who attended the 87th Alabama FFA Convention in Montgomery June 9-12. The Alabama Farmers Federation sponsored a popular booth where visitors described the meaning of agriculture in exchange for sunglass straps, water bottles and T-shirts. Advisers, students and parents wrote on a chalkboard and shared photos on social media for a chance to win a Yeti cooler. Teacher Rusty Roden of West Point High School in Cullman County was among those honored as a 2015 Adviser of the Year. He said he was proud to be involved with FFA. “I grew up on a farm in Holly Pond and was on a livestock CDE (Career Development Events) team in high school, so FFA has always played an important role in my life,” he said. “FFA is one of the best things for teaching morals, values and skills for today’s agriculture and agriculture-related industries. FFA is the premiere youth leadership organization in the U.S.” Federation commodity groups sponsored seven FFA award contests, and the Alabama Soybean Producers provided T-shirts to FFA members who visited the Federation booth June 11. After the CDE competitions June 9 in Auburn, students swelled auditoriums as they conducted business, visited sponsor booths, earned banners and fellowshipped in the Renaissance Hotel in down-

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

Federation intern Michelle Bufkin invites FFA members to describe agriculture on chalkboards during the convention. Left: Members were encouraged to share their photos on social media for a chance to win a Yeti cooler.

town Montgomery. Enterprise FFA battled tough competition but took top honors in the “Best String Band” competition and will represent Alabama at the National FFA Convention in October. Ariton FFA Secretary Emily Lewis said through all the meeting and greeting, she was excited to grow closer with her fellow chapter members. “When I think of FFA, I think about the relationships I’ve formed with my other officers,” she said. 10

“It’s a way we get to bond as an officer team and we can take back with us and use at Ariton.” Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell and Federation National Legislative Programs Director Mitt Walker were awarded Honorary State FFA degrees, the highest recognition for non-members. Federation Young Farmers Director and former state and national FFA officer Jennifer Himburg said seeing the positivity and discipline FFA students exhibit gives her faith in the future of Alabama agriculture. “FFA conventions are a whirlwind of energy and excitement that are akin to none other,” Himburg said. “You’re running into old friends but still making new friends, and after the workshops, booths and competitions, you realize how much you’ve grown in such a short amount of time.” n J U LY 2 0 1 5

Jacob Hodnett

Young Farmers Chairman Tallapoosa County Whether it’s working or playing, there’s a good chance Jacob Hodnett can be found outside. “I love hunting and fishing,” Hodnett said. “But there is nothing like a hard day of work on the farm to make you feel like you’ve accomplished something for the day.” A Dow AgroSciences sales representative, Hodnett earned a degree in agronomy and soils from Auburn University and farms with his dad and brother. They have 30 cows on 125 acres mixed with pasture and pine trees. Along with his Young Farmers involvement, Hodnett is Tallapoosa County Farmers Federation treasurer and Tallapoosa County Cattlemen’s Association president. He and his wife, Carrie, have been married for 10 years. They have three children: Abigail Lynn, 6; Toby Matthew, 2; and infant Anliegh Faith. The Hodnetts attend Mountain Springs Baptist Church where Jacob teaches Sunday school.

The Original Trimmer-on-Wheels

Just Got BETTER! The NEW DR® TRIMMER/MOWER NEW LOW PRICE!

America’s #1 Selling Brush Mower for Over 25 Years!

TRIMS, MOWS waist-high grass and weeds. CUTS BRUSH, SAPLINGS up to 3" thick with exclusive accessories. THICKEST, LONGEST-LASTING CORD available anywhere (225 mil Sawtooth™).

ONLY the DR® Field and Brush Mower has…

4-SEASON FUNCTIONALITY with quick-change attachments.

FREE

SHIPPING

DRﬁeldbrush.com

0% 36 mo.

FINANCING

SOME LIMITATIONS APPLY. CALL FOR DETAILS.

J U LY 2 0 1 5

NEW TOW BEHIND MODELS TOO.

The ONLY Trimmer Guaranteed Not To Wrap!

DRtrimmers.com

LOCKABLE DIFFERENTIAL for easy turning and go-anywhere traction.

UNSTOPPABLE POWER to mow down saplings up to 3" thick.

Call for a FREE DVD and Catalog! Includes product specifications and factory-direct offers. TOLL FREE 11

877-200-7636 w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

By Mary Johnson

n late spring, Timothy Bradley and fellow Chilton County FFA members eagerly volunteered to transform an old hayfield into a thriving produce farm. “Out here, we’re learning how to do hard work and how to have fun while working,” said Bradley, a freshman at Maplesville High School. “Farming is harder work than what they say it is in school.” Bradley is one of more than 40 Chilton County FFA members who will work throughout the year to plant, harvest, market and Maplesville High School freshman Timothy Bradley, far sell produce from a farm right, and his classmates level ground in an old Chilton off County Road 37. The County hayfield. Produce from the field will be sold to students are raising cantafund trips to state and national FFA conventions. loupes, watermelon, tomatoes, sweet corn and purple County, Isabella, Maplesville and hull peas, along with field corn and Thorsby high schools. soybeans. While produce sales will fund It’s part of the Chilton County trips to FFA state and national Joint Agriscience Farm, an effort conventions, Isabella agriscience among FFA groups at Chilton teacher Landon Lowery said true

dividends will come from lessons learned in the field. “This farm will raise money, but it’s also going to help our kids and communities,” said Lowery, who is Chilton County Young Farmers chairman. “We can teach all day long about production agriculture, but now the students are actually experiencing production agriculture.” The project received national recognition, winning a $10,000 grant from Opal Apples for farm equipment. Lowery said the farm has also created a stir locally. “This ballooned a lot quicker than we thought it would,” he said. “Although we never formally asked for help, Chilton County Farmers Federation members really stepped up, allowing us to borrow equipment to prepare the land and even

Isabella High School FFA adviser Landon Lowery, right, helps students set up a plastic mulch laying machine. J U LY 2 0 1 5

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

grow vegetables in their backyards. “Hopefully they are getting a better appreciation of everything that goes into agriculture,” Harton said. “Affordable food and having access to whatever you want to eat — that’s all made possible by things like what we see at this farm, just on a larger scale.” Along with raising crops, students are learning about supply and demand by marketing their products. For Lowery, that’s an important step. “Sometimes growing can be the easy part, and selling the product may be the hard part,” Lowery said. “You have to grow something people want.” For details on purchasing produce from the Chilton County Joint Agriscience Farm, contact Lowery at (205) 389-0545 or like the Isabella FFA Facebook page. n

Chilton County High School FFA adviser Marlon Harton, right, helps student Tanner Jones stake tomato plants growing at the Chilton County Joint Agriscience Farm.

volunteering to show students about planting and harvesting.” While school gardens and raised beds are gaining in popularity, the 30-acre farm in Chilton County provides students a different perspective, focusing on large-scale fruit and vegetable production. Work has required the use of tractors, discs and a plastic mulch-laying machine. Students also gained experience installing a drip irrigation system, laying the tubing with the plastic mulch and connecting valves and pipes. FFA student Price Walker said he worked on relatives’ farms before getting involved in the project, but now has greater knowledge about growing food. “I had no idea how to set up plastic-covered beds,” said Walker, a junior at Chilton County High School. “The covered beds hold

water a lot better and are good at keeping pests out. I’ve learned that the plastic benefits the plant a lot more than if it was just out here on the bare soil.” Marlon Harton, Walker’s FFA adviser, said he believes this project will get his students interested in farming, whether they decide to raise livestock and crops or simply

Chilton County High School student Reece Staggs, left, and Isabella High School FFA adviser Landon Lowery run twine to stake tomato plants. The tomatoes will be sold to fund FFA trips to state and national conventions.

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

J U LY 2 0 1 5

Enjoy a bath again…

This fountain of youth can make you feel 30 years younger. Safely and affordably Four Jacuzzi® ShowerPro™ Jets focus on the neck, back, hips, knees and may help ease the pain and discomfort of:

FREE $200 Gift

NEW!

• Arthritis • Circulation Issues • Inflammation • Aches and Pains • Neuropathy • Sciatica

Only Jacuzzi® Walk-In Tubs feature the exclusive Fast-Fill™ Faucet

The Jacuzzi® Hydrotherapy Shower provides a lifetime of comfort and relief… safely and affordably.

Why the Jacuzzi® Hydrotherapy Walk-In Tub is the Best…

As we age, the occasional aches and pains of everyday life become less and less occasional. Most of us are bothered by sore muscles, creaky joints and general fatigue as we go through the day– and it’s made worse by everything from exertion and stress to arthritis and a number of other ailments. Sure, there are pills and creams that claim to provide comfort, but there is only one 100% natural way to feel better… hydrotherapy. Now, the world leader in hydrotherapy has invented the only shower that features Jacuzzi® Jets. It’s called the Jacuzzi® Hydrotherapy Shower, and it can truly change your life. For over 50 years, the Jacuzzi® Design Engineers have worked to bring the powerful benefits of soothing hydrotherapy into millions of homes. Now, they’ve created a system that can fit in the space of your existing bathtub or shower and give you a lifetime of enjoyment, comfort and pain-relief. They’ve thought of everything. From the high-gloss acrylic surface, slipresistant flooring, a hand-held shower wand to a comfortable and adjustable seat, to strategically-placed grab bars and lots of storage, this shower has it all. SPECIAL REPORT Why wait to experience the Jacuzzi® Hydrotherapy Shower? Call now… it’s the first step in getting relief from those FREE aches and pains.

✓Easy and Safe Entry - Low entry, double sealed leak-proof door that is easy to open and close. ✓Durable and Easy to Clean - State-of-the-art acrylic surface. ✓Comfortable Seating - Convenient 17-inch raised seat. ✓Worry Free Enjoyment - Thanks to Jacuzzi Inc.’s Lifetime Limited Warranty. ✓Relax Fully - All controls are within easy reach. ✓Maximum Pain Relief - Therapeutic water AND air jets to help you feel your best. ✓Personalized Massage - New adjustable jet placement for pinpoint control. This tub is the first to offer a specialized foot massage experience. Its unique spinning motion provides optimal therapy to feet and legs. Best of all, you get it at no additional charge.

TIPS ON LIVING TO BE 100 Including the Secret Benefits of Hydrotherapy

✓No Hassle Installation - Designed to fit in your existing tub space.

for a limited time only

1-844-221-0737

Please mention promotional code 101131.

1-888-203-1298

82018

when you mention this ad

“Tips On Living To Be 100”

81398

1000 OFF

Call toll free now and receive your FREE special report

Call toll free now and receive your FREE special report “Tips On Living To Be 100” and details on a FREE $200 gift

By Debra Davis

arugula,” said Schleusner, a Birmingham native and professional chef of 12 years. “I’m not sure what all I will make with it, but I know it will be good because it’s fresh, and that makes everything better.” Schleusner, 39, joined other residents in and around Coffee County’s largest city in encouraging local officials to construct the permanent market that opened earlier this year. Response from local farmers and shoppers has been exciting, said Birgit Briggs, who manages the market. “The consumers’ interest in a healthier lifestyle has significantly grown in the past few years, and we are happy to offer our community an avenue to encourage that,” said Briggs, Enterprise’s community service coordinator. “Another purpose of the farmers market is to educate our children about agriculture in our area. Showing them how food goes from farm to table is an important step in creating healthier eating habits.”

hef Bill Schleusner’s mind races and his mouth waters as he walks through the new farmers market brimming with fresh fruits and vegetables in downtown Enterprise. His creative juices flow as he plans menu items to be featured at the historic Rawls Restaurant, a stone’s throw from the boll weevil monument. Schleusner said there’s nothing better than fresh fruits and vegetables, and the idea of serving those to customers excites him. “Today, I bought squash, blueberries, cucumbers, a seedless watermelon, onions and

Clockwise from top, Farmer Steve Merritt of Slocomb and Chef Bill Schleusner of The Rawls discuss Merritt’s fresh tomatoes at the Enterprise Farmers Market. Bottom right, Tammy Buzzan of Brundidge delivers fresh fruits and vegetables to Schleusner, who prepares seasonal specialties for his customers. Bottom left, the chef puts finishing touches on a fresh salad made from his purchases. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

J U LY 2 0 1 5

Schleusner agreed. He said many consumers have lost sight of where food comes from. ‘It’s almost gotten to be too easy to go to the grocery store and get whatever we want,” Schleusner said. “A farmers market is a great way to connect with the community, and it’s important consumers realize — whether they buy food from a market or a grocery store — that a farmer had to plant a seed, nurture that crop and harvest it.” Steve Merritt of Slocomb is one of those farmers. He’s a fourthgeneration truck farmer who grew up in Florida. Now a pastor at Landmark Baptist Church in Dothan, he still plants a variety of fruits and vegetables to sell at area Customers enjoyed fresh markets. fruits and vegetables Both Briggs from the new Enterprise and SchleusFarmers Market in ner said the downtown Enterprise. Top left, Betty Peters variety and quality of Mer- bags fresh squash for a customer. Top right, Mary ritt’s produce Ann Hall of Enterprise always draws buys fresh produce from a crowd at the Wanda Myers of South Park Produce and Farms. market. The Enter- Bottom, Wendy Patton of Enterprise, right, looks prise market over the fresh vegetables began several from Cherin Shaw’s years ago, but Backyard Gardens of the new paved Slocomb. parking lot, shaded stands and brick building right on Main Street provide a welcome boost for farmers and consumers. “I love seeing customers who’ve been doing business with me for years,” said Merritt, 50. “A lot of the older generation likes to smell, taste and feel produce before they buy it, and that’s fine with me. I like getting to know my customers. I also like seeing younger shoppers who are learning about how good and easy to prepare fresh fruits and vegetables can be.” There’s nothing fresher or better than buying fruits and vegetables straight from the farmers who grew them, said the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Mac Higginbotham. J U LY 2 0 1 5

“Farmers are excited to bring their bounty right to the person who will buy and prepare it for their family,” said Higginbotham, who is the Federation’s Horticulture Division director. “Consumers discover fresh food really does make a difference in the quality and taste of what they’re eating.” Billy and Martha Peters of Slocomb have grown produce for nearly 40 years. Their smiles welcome old and new customers alike who visit their stand at the Enterprise Market in late May. “We love the new market,” Martha Peters said. “It’s been great for us, and the season is just really getting started. We’re looking forward to another great year.” Market season in Alabama typically begins in the southern part of the state in early May and moves north with the onset of summer. Local farmers markets and roadside stands help boost local economies, Higginbotham said. “Going to the farmers market has become a fun outing for many families,” he said. “Some offer live music, cooking demonstrations and even children’s activities. This boosts tourism income, and shoppers also spend money locally buying ingredients and supplies to prepare fresh produce.” In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, many markets offer herbs, honey, fresh eggs, jams, jellies, relishes, sauces, syrup, flowers, plants, shrubs, decorative items, handmade crafts, cornmeal, grits and baked goods. For more information about the Enterprise Farmers Market, contact Briggs at (334) 348-2668 or bbriggs@ enterpriseal.gov. For a list of farmers markets and roadside stands in Alabama, visit the Alabama Farmers Market Authority website at fma.alabama.gov. n 17

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

Chicks soybeans soyb eans

So do pigs, cows and fish. In fact, animal ag is your number one customer – consuming 98 percent of your soybean meal. That’s one good-looking figure.

Catfish Checkoff Dollars Fund Auburn Research Trials By Marlee Moore

armer checkoff dollars are helping develop a vaccine to stop a pathogen that harms catfish shortly before harvest. Auburn University researchers began vaccine trials aimed at preventing aeromonas in catfish May 14 by vaccinating 18,000 fingerlings at the E.W. Shell Fisheries Center. Those fish were taken to ponds at Randy Hollingsworth’s farm near Greensboro for scientists to monitor. “We spent over $100,000 last year to treat our ponds, mostly for aeromonas,” said Hollingsworth, 54. He is hopeful the trial will bring much-needed relief to Alabama farmers. The new vaccine, developed by Auburn scientists with the help of Alabama Catfish Checkoff money, is the first in a series of trials geared at preventing aeromonas. Other tests, which will be conducted simultaneously in Hollingsworth’s pond, include a probiotic feed supplement and a more resistant hybrid catfish. The fish live in floating raceways — 16 cagelike pens — allowing close monitoring of the fish. Hollingsworth has 630 acres of water on his Hale County farm. He said aeromonas first hit his farm in 2009. It started with a few dead fish, but the numbers grew. “One day we lost six fish,” he said. “Well, that’s common, and I didn’t think anything about it. The next day we lost a couple hundred fish, and the next day we lost 30,000.” Aeromonas typically strikes mature fish, near harvest. This strain was isolated in Asia before emerging near Eutaw, Alabama, farms in 2009, said Hollingsworth, a member of the Alabama Farmers Federation State Catfish Committee. J U LY 2 0 1 5

Clockwise from top: Hale County farmer Randy Hollingsworth, left, and Federation Catfish Division Director Rick Oates discuss the aeromonas research project, conducted at Hollingsworth’s ponds and raceways. Eighteen thousand fingerlings were hand-vaccinated at Auburn’s E.W. Shell Fisheries Center May 14. Dr. Jahangir Hossain vaccinates a catfish as part of the aeromonas research control project.

Aeromonas isn’t new, but an especially virulent strain recently surfaced, said Auburn fisheries professor Jeff Terhune. He said he and other researchers aren’t sure how the strain arrived in the U.S., but aeromonas has cost Alabama catfish farmers nearly $12 million in lost revenue since it arrived. Federation Catfish Division Director Rick Oates said the trials hopefully will help secure the cat19

fish industry’s profitability. “We want to help farmers protect their livelihoods without being subject to loss from aeromonas,” said Oates. “Farmers determine how their checkoff dollars are spent and are willing to invest their money to find a solution.” In January, catfish farmers increased the checkoff rate from 50 cents to $1 per ton of catfish feed sold. The checkoff is expected to generate more than $120,000 annually and helps fund aeromonas research. The catfish industry has an economic impact of $158.2 million annually in Alabama. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Alabama Teacher Of The Year Gets Car Courtesy Of Alfa Insurance By Mary Johnson

labama’s 2015-2016 Teacher of the Year Jennifer Brown will cruise the state in style this year in a new Chevrolet Traverse, courtesy of Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation. Brown, a science teacher at Vestavia Hills High School, received keys to the vehicle during a presentation at the Alfa home office in Montgomery May 14. “We are thrilled to recognize Ms. Brown for all she does to educate and inspire her students,” said Jimmy Parnell, president of Alfa Insurance and the Federation. “Alabama’s teachers are extremely important people who help youth develop into productive citizens. We hope this gesture will help Ms. Brown as she travels the state this year.” This marks the 19th year Alfa has supported the Teacher of the Year program by donating a year’s use of a vehicle. Parnell also announced that the Federation will pay for insurance on the car. As Teacher of the Year, Brown will serve as a spokesperson for education and the teaching profession. She will present workshops to various groups and is now a candi-

Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, second from left, presented keys to Jennifer Brown, Alabama’s 2015-2016 Teacher of the Year. From left are State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tommy Bice, Parnell, Brown, Alfa Insurance Executive Vice President of Marketing Al Dees and Alfa Insurance Executive Vice President of Operations Steve Rutledge.

date for the National Teacher of the Year award. “It is my goal to create a student-centered classroom packed with diverse individuals who are inspired by my passion and are unafraid to make mistakes,” Brown said. “I am privileged to have the opportunity to affect lives every single day.”

Brown works to motivate students both in the classroom and on the playing field. She is the school’s Ultimate Frisbee Club adviser and previously coached softball. State Superintendent of Education Dr. Thomas R. Bice announced Brown as the Teacher of Year during a May 13 ceremony in Montgomery. “Ms. Brown is an example of an excellent educator,” Bice said. “She shows students that they can achieve the most challenging expectations, while helping each one along the way with learning for real life.” Alfa is dedicated to supporting education in the communities it serves. This year, the Alfa Foundation awarded $100,000 in scholarships to 100 students attending Alabama colleges, universities and technical schools. n Students from Little Alfa Day Care celebrated with Teacher of the Year Jennifer Brown when she received the year’s use of a car, courtesy of Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation.

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

J U LY 2 0 1 5

Four Federation Priority Bills Pass During 2015 Legislative Session

tate legislators passed four Alabama Farmers Federation priority bills before the 2015 session ended June 4. “We are thankful to have legislators who worked with us during this session to address issues important to our farmer members,” said Brian Hardin, director of the Governmental and Agricultural Programs Department. Gov. Robert Bentley signed into law legislation related to F4 farm tags, the queen honeybee, catfish labeling and municipal annexations. Sen. Clay Scofield, R-Arab, and Rep. Alan Boothe, R-Troy, sponsored the bill allowing farmers to purchase of up to four F4 farm tags. Rep. Jim Patterson, R-Meridianville, sponsored a bill making the queen honeybee the state’s agricultural insect. Sen. Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, and Rep. A.J. McCampbell,

J U LY 2 0 1 5

D-Demopolis, sponsored legislation to strengthen catfish country-oforigin-labeling laws for restaurants. Sen. Paul Sanford, R-Huntsville, and Rep. Ron Johnson, R-Sylacauga, sponsored a law clarifying municipal annexation procedures. Alabama Farmers Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan thanked legislators, especially bill sponsors; Speaker of the House Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn; and Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, R-Anniston, for their leadership and service to agriculture.

“Passage of these bills is proof of legislators working for their constituents,” Pinyan said. “These bills will help farming and farm families.” On June 2, the governor signed the Education Trust Fund budget. It includes $5 million for Career Tech Operations and Maintenance, $3.9 million for the Career Tech Initiative, $350,000 for the Poultry Technology Center, $850,000 for the Office of State Climatologist and $2.4 million for the Family Practice Rural Health Board. Bentley vetoed the Legislature’s General Fund (GF) budget proposal. The proposal would have removed funding to offset farmers’ permit fees for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations. It also would have cut in half funding for the Alabama Water Enhancement Program. The governor said he will call a special session this summer to address the GF budget. n

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

Federation Members Attend Washington Legislative Conference By Mary Johnson

ore than 100 Alabama Farmers Federation members traveled to the nation’s capital for the Washington Legislative Conference May 19-22. Alabama farmers stayed busy over the four-day conference, speaking with federal officials and Congressmen about agricultural issues such Country of Origin Labeling (COOL), Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS), the farm bill and feral swine management. “I talked with U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne about the World Trade Organization ruling on COOL and how that can directly impact the price we get for our beef products,” said Anthony Faggard, a Mobile County beef cattle farmer. “We’re fortunate we have a representative who shares a lot of our views, and we thanked him for his support.” U.S. Congressman Gary Palmer, representing Alabama’s 6th Congressional district, welcomed Alabama farmers to Washington, D.C., at the event’s opening breakfast May 20. Palmer complimented his colleagues on Capitol Hill and said he felt they could solve any problem, as long as Congress develops a vision. “I hope that after 10 years (in the U.S. House of Representatives) that someone could walk up to me and say, ‘Palmer, you were part of the best Congress this country has ever had,’” he said. On May 21, attendees met with their U.S. representatives during w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Above: Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, left, welcomed U.S. Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions, both Republicans representing Alabama, to a luncheon May 21 during the Washington Legislative Conference. Left: U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer of Alabama’s 6th Congressional District, center, visited with farmer constituents, including Dennis and Kay Maze of Blount County, at a May 21 breakfast during the conference.

breakfast and heard from U.S. Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions during a luncheon at the Dirksen Senate building. “The Federation consistently stands for values that I think make the state (of Alabama) great and for values that we all share,” Sessions said. Sessions discussed agricultural issues, focusing on trade policy and problems with the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed WOTUS rule. Shelby said he recently finished 22

visiting Alabama’s 67 counties because he wants to make sure he is accessible and accountable to his constituents. The conference also included briefings from staff of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Cotton Council and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. The event concluded with a visit to the Australian Embassy. Cullman County Farmers Federation President Steve Lake was a first-time participant at the conference. “I was tremendously interested in coming to meet the folks who make the rules and put together policies that support farming,” Lake said. “This has been a real eye-opener. Running our government is a complex undertaking. I’ve learned more about what is involved to make agriculture work on a global scale.” n J U LY 2 0 1 5

Quality Custom Homes Built On Your Land! 130+ Customizable Plans! Rockwell

3,196 sq. ft. under roof $199,800 Plantation

We Make Building Easy! Call for a free consultation! Offices Serving Alabama:

Cullman (256)737-5055 Montgomery (334)290-4397 Bremen, GA

2,117 sq. ft. under roof $139,800 (770)537-5337 D DE

INC

ZIP System

Lake Blue Ridge

2,015 sq. ft. under roof $131,100 Grand Sierra

Build Now and $ave

ZIP System® sheathing and tape is an innovative structural roof and wall system with an integrated water resistant and air barrier that streamlines the weatherization process and transforms it with a simple two-step installation.

2,191 sq. ft. under roof $132,200

Hours of Operation: View More Plans @ Mon-Fri • 9am - 6pm TrinityCustom.com Saturday • 10am - 4pm Price does not include land improvements. Prices subject to change. Some of the homes shown have options not in the base price.

Guaranteed Build Times • Custom Cabinets • Crawl or Slab

• R38 Ceiling Insulation • 6” Gutters • 9’ Ceilings • Delta Fixtures

2/10 Warranty • 2x6 Ext. Walls • ZIP System • Granite Countertops • Double-Hung Windows

R19 Ext. Wall Insulation • 30 Yr. Shingles • ...And Much More • We Make Building Easy!

J U LY 2 0 1 5

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

Upcoming County Annual Meetings

MARENGO

Tuesday, Sept. 15th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Service Center 206 Shiloh St., Linden

MARION

Friday, Aug. 14th @ 6 PM Hamilton Recreation Center 340 7th Ave. SW, Hamilton

MARSHALL

Tuesday, Aug. 25th @ 7 PM Marshall County Federation Building 1333 Blount Ave., Guntersville

MOBILE

Thursday, July 23rd @ 7 PM Greater Gulf State Fair Grounds 1035 North Cody Rd., Mobile

MONROE

Monday, Aug. 17th @ 6:30 PM Ag Center 334 Agriculture Dr., Monroeville

MONTGOMERY

Monday, Aug. 10th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Home Office 2108 East South Blvd., Montgomery

MORGAN

Friday, Aug. 7th @ 7 PM Sparkman Civic Center 406 NanceFord Rd. SW, Hartselle

PERRY

Tuesday, Sept. 1st @ 11 AM Alfa Service Center 406 Pickens St., Marion

PICKENS

Thursday, Aug. 27th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Service Center 155 Reform St., Carrolton

AUTAUGA

Wednesday, Aug. 19th @ 7 PM Autauga County Ag Center 2224 Hwy. 14 West, Autaugaville

DALLAS

Tuesday, Sept. 8th @ 6 PM Alfa Service Center 403 Broad St., Selma

BALDWIN

Tuesday, Aug. 4th @ 7 PM Baldwin County Federation Building 21332 Hwy 59, Robertsdale

DEKALB

Thursday, Aug. 6th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Insurance Office Building 346 McCurdy Ave. South, Rainsville

BARBOUR

Thursday, Aug. 13th @ 7 PM Clayton Dime Store Restaurant 10 Eufaula Ave., Clayton

ELMORE

Tuesday, July 21st @ 7 PM Wetumpka High School 1281 Coosa River Pkwy, Wetumpka

BIBB

Tuesday, Aug. 25th @ 5:30 PM Alfa Service Center 1101 Walnut St., Centreville

ESCAMBIA

Tuesday, Sept. 1st @ 6 PM Ag Center 175 Ag Science Drive, Brewton

BLOUNT

Thursday, Aug. 20th @ 6:30 PM (BBQ at 6 PM) Frank J. Green Building 415 5th Ave. East, Oneonta

ETOWAH

Monday, Aug. 10th @ 6:30 Etowah County Federation Building 125 Broad St., Gadsden

BULLOCK

Thursday, Aug. 6th @ 6:30 PM Greenway Sportman’s Club 2624 Hwy. 223, Union Springs

FAYETTE

Tuesday, Aug. 11th @ 6 PM Fayette Civic Center 530 North Temple Ave., Fayette

CALHOUN

Thursday, Aug. 13th @ 6:30 PM Calhoun County Federation Office 1535 Pelham Rd. South, Jacksonville

FRANKLIN

Monday, Aug. 10th @ 6 :30 PM Best Western Plus Russellville 13770 Hwy 43, Russellville

CHAMBERS

Saturday, Aug. 8th @ 6 PM Alfa Service Center 1006 Ave. A S.E, Lafayette

GENEVA

Tuesday, Aug. 18th @ 7 PM Geneva County Farm Center 2765 Hwy 52, Geneva

CHEROKEE

Friday, Aug. 7th @ 6:30 PM Dean Buttram Senior Center 229 Dean Buttram Ave., Centre

GREENE

Thursday, Sept. 3rd @ 6 PM Alfa Service Center 101 Boligee St., Eutaw

PIKE

Tuesday, July 14th @ 7 PM Alfa Service Center 1208 S. Brundidge St., Troy

CHILTON

Tuesday, Aug. 11th @ 7 PM Alfa Service Center 301 1st. Street North, Clanton

HALE

Thursday, Sept. 3rd @ 1 PM Greensboro Fish Center 529 South Centreville St., Greensboro

RANDOLPH

Saturday, Aug. 15th @ 5:30 PM Randolph County Ag Center 2959 County Rd. 333, Wedowee

CHOCTAW

Tuesday, Aug. 18th @ 6 PM Alfa Service Center 229 South Mulberry Ave., Butler

HENRY

Tuesday, Aug. 4th @ 7 PM Wiregrass Research & Exp. Station 167 E. State Hwy 134, Headland

RUSSELL

Monday, Aug. 17th @ 7 PM ET / 6 PM CT Historic Masonic Lodge 4497 US Hwy 80, Crawford

CLARKE

Tuesday, Aug. 25th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Service Center 148 South Jackson St., Grove Hill

HOUSTON

Thursday, Aug. 20th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Service Center 1038 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan

SHELBY

Monday, Aug. 17th @ 6 :30 PM Old Courthouse 1854 North Main St., Columbiana

CLAY

Tuesday, Aug. 18th @ 6:30 PM Red’s Catfish Cabin 689 Catfish Rd., Cragford

JACKSON

Tuesday, Aug. 4th @ 6:30 PM Jackson County Federation Building 23625 John T. Reid Pkwy, Scottsboro

ST. CLAIR

Monday, Aug. 10th @ 7 PM Alfa Service Center 32775 US Hwy 231, Ashville

CLEBURNE

Tuesday, Aug. 11th @ 6:30 PM The Mountain Center 6751 Hwy. 78, Heflin

JEFFERSON

Friday, Aug. 28th @ 10 AM Birmingham Botanical Gardens 2612 Lane Park Rd., Mountain Brook

SUMTER

Monday, July 20th @ 7 PM Alfa Service Center 106 Marshall St., Livingston

COFFEE

Monday, July 27th @ 6:30 PM Community Room 1055 East McKinnon St., New Brockton

LAMAR

Monday, Aug. 17th @ 6:30 PM Vernon Civic Center 44425 Alabama Hwy 17, Vernon

TALLADEGA

Thursday, Aug. 20th @ 7 PM Alfa Service Center 314 East Battle St., Talladega

COLBERT

Monday, Aug. 31st @ 6:30 PM Northwest – Shoals Community College 800 George Wallace Blvd., Muscle Shoals

LAUDERDALE

Tuesday, Aug. 11th @ 6:30 PM Agriculture Center and Extension Office 802 Veterans Dr., Florence

TALLAPOOSA

Tuesday, Aug. 25th @ 6:30 PM Tallapoosa County Federation Building 111 North Tallassee St., Dadeville

CONECUH

Tuesday, Sept. 8th @ 6 PM David Burt Building 102 Liberty St., Evergreen

LAWRENCE

Tuesday, Aug. 4th @ 6 PM Farm Center Auditorium 13075 ALA-157, Moulton

TUSCALOOSA

Thursday, Aug. 20th @ 7 PM Bobby Miller Activity Center 350 Bobby Miller Pkwy, Tuscaloosa

COOSA

Thursday, Aug. 13th @ 6:30 PM Old Rockford Schoolhouse Nixburg Rd. & County Rd. 18, Rockford

LEE

Tuesday, July 28th @ 6:30 PM Lazenby Farms 11546 Lee Rd. 54, Auburn

WALKER

Tuesday, Aug. 18th @ 6 PM Walker County Federation Building 903 Airport Rd. South, Jasper

COVINGTON

Thursday, Aug. 6th @ 6:30 PM Oakwood Lodge 13725 Brooklyn Rd., Andalusia

LIMESTONE

Thursday, Aug. 6th @ 6:30 PM Limestone County Veteran’s Museum 100 West Pryor St., Athens

WASHINGTON

Monday, Aug. 3rd @ 7 PM Walker County Federation Building 54 Court St., Chatom

CULLMAN

Thursday, Aug. 6th @ 6 PM Cullman County Federation Building 307 Main Ave. NW, Cullman

MACON

Tuesday, Sept. 1st @ 6 PM Beck’s Turf Farm 2858 County Rd. 53, Tuskegee

WILCOX

Thursday, Aug. 27th @ 7:30 PM Lower Coastal Experiment Station 1192 Earl Hillard Rd., Camden

DALE

Monday, Aug. 10th @ 7 PM Dale County Government Building 202 Hwy 123 South, Ozark

MADISON

Monday, Aug. 3rd @ 5:30 PM Burritt on the Mountain Auditorium 3101 Burritt Drive, Huntsville

WINSTON

Thursday, Aug. 13th @ 6 PM Traders and Farmers Bank 10 Blake Drive, Double Springs

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

J U LY 2 0 1 5

Alabama Farmers Federation Welcomes Summer Interns By Marlee Moore

ing on pre-event planning and on-site preparations for Federation and Alfa Insurance events. Shane Watkins, director of Destinations, said Chapman is aiding Destinations’ project manager and meeting planners. “She’s a really positive, intelligent person. Plus, she’s our first intern, so we’re excited about that,” said Watkins. He added his team is learning from Chapman, whose bachelor’s Chapman degree is in hospitality, while giving her practical, hands-on experience in event coordination. While at the University of Alabama, the Brewton native was involved in Meetings Professional International and the Hotel and Restaurant and Convention Association. She previously interned with Shelton State University’s culinary department and a wedding planning company in Destin, Florida. “I’m excited to see how the real world works,” said Chapman. “I’m putting the knowledge I gained in the classroom to good use.” n

he Alabama Farmers Federation welcomed Auburn University seniors Michelle Bufkin and Marlee Moore and University of Alabama graduate student Caroline Chapman as summer interns May 11. Bufkin, an agricultural communications student, is the Organization Department’s first intern. “I’m excited about being able to network with industry through Ag in the Classroom and all the events Organization does,” said Bufkin. Kim Ramsey, director of the Women’s Leadership Division, called Bufkin an engaging self-starter and said she is excited to welcome her to the Federation. “I know she is enthusiastic about agriculture and is someone we can Bufkin depend on,” said Ramsey. The Autaugaville native is producing Ag Mags, which highlight Alabama’s commodities through educational activity sheets for students. She is also working on Ag in the Classroom curriculum development. Bufkin has spent two years at Auburn involved with Sigma Alpha, the professional agriculture sorority that’s national philanthropy is Ag in the Classroom. She is also involved in the Block and Bridle Club, where she served as president, and is an Ag Ambassador. Moore, also an agricultural communications student, works in the Public Relations and Communications Department where her duties include writing, copy editing and photography. “Working with the Federation is the experience of a lifetime,” said the Thomasville native. “I can’t wait to interact with farmers and share their stories with the rest of Alabama.” Moore Jeff Helms, department director, said Moore’s enthusiasm for telling farmers’ stories is encouraging. “Marlee already has proven her commitment to communicating the importance of agriculture through her work with Ag Ambassadors at Auburn and as a student leader,” said Helms. “We look forward to working with Marlee as she broadens her experience and sharpens her communication skills.” Moore’s dedication to the agriculture industry has shown through her work with the College of Agriculture’s Ag Council and Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow. Chapman is interning with Destinations, the Federation’s in-house travel and event team. She is work-

J U LY 2 0 1 5

We Build To Suit Your Needs. Pole Barns • Hay Sheds Agricultural Shops • Equipment Sheds Deer Camp Buildings

Office: (601) 859-4000 Cell: (601) 573-9450 Examples 30x40x10 • 40x60x12 • 50x80x14 25

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

By Lois Chaplin

iger lilies. Asian lilies. Oriental lilies. Turks cap lilies. Trumpet lilies. Formosa lilies. Summer brings a parade of lilies into bloom. Truly great garden plants, this group offers diverse colors, an extended blooming season and elegance. But elegance doesn’t mean they are difficult. Given a well-drained spot and some sun, lilies tend to come back dutifully year after year, always on time no matter the weather. Yet, it seems there aren’t as many lilies in gardens today. Maybe it’s because they are not quite as instant as many other plants. Usually, lilies are started from bulbs for sale only in the spring and fall, and they take time to pop up from

GET

under the ground. But, they are worth the wait. Homeowners just have to be a little more deliberate when contemplating lilies for their gardens, catching availability at the right time. Summer is a good time to take note of any lilies that would make a nice addition to landscape projects. Shoppers should be ready to buy or order bulbs in September and October. Eager gardeners might find some pots of lilies in bloom at garden centers now, but the seasonal displays won’t be there long. One great bargain trick for next spring is to buy Easter lilies (Lilium longiflorum) on clearance after Easter. Like all white varieties, Easter lilies are fabulous on summer nights in the garden where their big white blossoms capture the moon-

GROWING.

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

light. Another great white lily is the tall Philippine lily, also called Formosa lily (Lilium formosanum). Formosa lily is one of the toughest of all, even setting seeds that tend to sprout and make new plants. At night, their fragrance is wonderful. They also attract big hawk moths, which are like nighttime hummingbirds. Tiger lilies are another tough group, defined by their orange color and black spots. They are sometimes called ‘ditch lilies’ because they’re often spotted in ditches and at old homesteads where they’ve likely survived for decades. Unlike most lilies that need excellent soil drainage, tiger lilies don’t mind moist soil. Neither does the Turks cap lily (Lilium superbum), which looks similar and is native to Alabama, Georgia and states north. Finally, there are the Asian and Oriental lilies and their many hybrids. These are the pretty yellow, pink, red, solid color and sometimes striped and mottled lilies often found as cut flowers. Imagine planting a row just for cutting. So how should gardeners take care of these great plants? Don’t kill them with kindness, as most would rather be left alone. Unfortunately, deer love lily flower buds, so plant them in a fenced area. Fertilize lightly immediately after they bloom with a bulb fertilizer. Leave plants to turn yellow and die back naturally because removing foliage earlier reduces the bulb’s ability to store food and will weaken next year’s show. Oh, did I mention that most lilies are very fragrant? A few folks don’t tolerate their strong perfume, but most can’t wait for the next whiff! n _________________________________

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

WWW.ALAFARM.COM 26

J U LY 2 0 1 5

Kenneth Northey President Covington County If the measure of a servant leader is a love for people, Kenneth Northey ranks near the top. “I’m blessed with wonderful family that supports me, as well as a vast number of friends,” said Northey, who has six chicken houses and 150 brood cows on his 800-acre farm. “I’ve always had a passion for farmers and farming,” he said. “Farmers are the backbone of our society.” Prior to being elected president, Northey was treasurer and vice president of the county Federation. He also is a Covington County Cattlemen’s Association board member and Alabama Poultry and Egg Association member. Northey and his wife, Kim, have been married eight years. He has three children, two step children and five grandchildren. Northey’s life motto is simple: “I believe with all my heart that hard work, dedication and faith pay off,” he said.

What’s On Your Plate?

Get Your Ag Tag Today! Support healthy food from local farmers by purchasing a Farming Feeds Alabama license plate. The tag funds education and promotion efforts including Ag in the Classroom, Farm-City Week, agricultural scholarships and youth programs. The “Ag Tag” may be purchased for any two-axle vehicle for personal or agricultural use weighing less than 12,000 pounds (including many farm trucks). Reference Alabama Act 2006-356. Get the “Ag Tag” today at your local license plate issuing office.

J U LY 2 0 1 5

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

CORN SALAD Courtesy of Emily Taylor of St. Clair County Start-to-finish: 5 minutes

By Jill Clair Gentry

ew fruits and vegetables evoke as much excitement as the tomato, which is, by the way, scientifically considered a fruit, but ruled a vegetable for practical purposes in an 1887 Supreme Court case. Tomatoes are arguably the star of summer farmers markets in the South, and gardeners have all kinds of tricks for growing them at home. Perhaps the tomato’s popularity can be credited to its versatility. Whether you’re cooking Italian, Mexican or down-home Southern cuisine, your recipe probably calls for tomatoes. But a tomato certainly doesn’t need to be dressed up to be enjoyed — true tomato lovers know slices of ripe, juicy tomato are best with just a little salt and pepper. Geneva County’s Beverly Aplin

of Slocomb, the tomato capital of the South, knows tomatoes. “I married into a tomato family,” she said. “My husband’s family has been growing tomatoes since 1952. At one time, we were growing as much as 150 acres of tomatoes. Now, we grow about 30 different fruits and vegetables, but tomatoes are our big crop.” Aplin said she leaves the farming to her husband and adult sons who work on the farm, but she and the grandkids run the farmers market side of the business. “We do about eight little farmers markets per week, and the grandchildren go to three or four of them with me,” she said. “I think it has been very educational for them. My 11-year-old granddaughter has been making change at farmers markets since she was 5 years old, and people can’t

Order your official Country Kitchen cookbook! w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

15-ounce can whole kernel corn, drained and rinsed, or 3-4 cooked ears of corn cut off of cob 15-ounce can of black beans, drained and rinsed 3-4 fresh tomatoes diced ½ cup diced bell pepper ½ cup diced red onion ½ bunch cilantro, chopped 1 lime

Mix together all ingredients except lime. Salt to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Just before serving, squeeze lime juice over and toss. believe she can wait on a customer like she does. They all interact with the public very naturally.” As soon as the weather starts getting warm in the spring, people begin asking for tomatoes, Aplin said. “People are always very excited about tomatoes,” she said. “When you’re buying them, remember the peak season is in June and July, and just make sure to get a good, firm, non-blemished tomato.”

FarmingFeedsAlabama.com J U LY 2 0 1 5

CORNBREAD SALAD Courtesy of Beverly Aplin of Geneva County Start-to-finish: 30 minutes active, 24 hours in refrigerator. Serves 6-8 8 ounces Jiffy cornbread mix 1 egg 1/3 cup milk 4 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped 1 bell pepper, chopped 1 sweet onion, chopped ½ cup sweet pickles, chopped 9 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled 1 cup mayonnaise ¼ cup sweet pickle juice

Mix cornbread mix, egg and milk together and bake as directed. Meanwhile, combine tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, sweet pickles and bacon and toss gently. Set aside. Combine mayonnaise and pickle juice and set aside. When cornbread is cool, crumble and place half of it in a large, clear bowl. Place half of the vegetable mixture on top; spread half of the mayonnaise mixture on top of vegetables. Repeat layers. Refrigerate for 24 hours before serving.

TOMATO FOCACCIA Courtesy of Jan Parker of St. Clair County Start-to-finish: 20 minutes, 5 minutes active. Serves 4 1 tube Pillsbury pizza crust 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil 2 tomatoes or 4 roma tomatoes, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese ½ teaspoon oregano ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Heat oven to 400 F. Lightly grease a cookie sheet. Place the crust on the cookie sheet and flatten to fit. Brush olive oil over the crust. Top with tomato slices. Sprinkle with cheese, oregano, and sea salt. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until nicely browned.

SWISS STEAK Courtesy of Beverly Aplin of Geneva County ½ cup flour 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper 2 pounds round steak 2 tablespoons oil 2 cups chopped tomatoes 2 onions, chopped 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Dash of hot sauce

Combine flour, salt and pepper. Pound mixture into meat. In a large skillet, heat oil and brown meat on both sides. Add remaining ingredients. Cook over low heat for 1 1/2 hours. Serve over rice or mashed potatoes.

TOMATO PIE Courtesy of Beverly Aplin of Geneva County Start-to-finish: 1 hour (15 minutes active) Serves 6-8 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced 1 unbaked deep-dish pie crust 1 small onion, thinly sliced ½ bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled ½ can mixed vegetables 1 can cream of mushroom soup 1 cup grated cheese

Heat oven to 350 F. Salt, pepper and flour the tomatoes. Layer all ingredients except cheese in pie crust, in the order listed. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Top with cheese and let stand 10 minutes before serving. n

J U LY 2 0 1 5

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

Travel with others in the AG Industry!

Hawaii Four-Island Agricultural Tour

13 Days from $1999* Departs Wednesdays & Fridays in January 2016. Experience a true tropical paradise with perfect climate, stunning scenery and exquisite beaches while visiting the islands of Oahu, Kauai, Maui and the “Big Island” of Hawaii. Sightseeing includes Pearl Harbor and Waikiki Beach on Oahu; enjoy an entertaining cruise on the Wailua River to romantic Fern Grotto and visit a Noni Fruit Plantation on Kauai; visit Lahaina, the old whaling capital and Maui Gold Pineapple Plantation on Maui; and on the “Big Island,” a Macadamia nut factory, Orchid Nursery; Volcanoes National Park, Fish Farm, Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation and more. * PPDO. Plus $199 tax/service/government fees. Add-on airfare available.

Call for Details! 888-906-5712 Please mention promo code CF09454 w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

J U LY 2 0 1 5

Get Back in the Game Need something to get through that everyday seventh-inning stretch? Grab a handful of nutritious, delicious peanuts, and get back in the game.