Neighbors Magazine, Aug. 2013 by Alabama Farmers Federation

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VOLUME 38, NUMBER 8 _____________________________________

A Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

AUGUST 2013

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 Ted Grantland, Somerville Waymon Buttram, Geraldine Don Allison, Arley John E. Walker III, Berry Dell Hill, Alpine Richard Edgar, Deatsville Dickie Odom, Boligee Garry Henry, Hope Hull Carl Sanders, Brundidge David Bitto, Elberta S. Steve Dunn, Samson Faye Dial, Lineville Jon Hegeman, Anniston

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. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001. ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: McFarland AdVantage, (334) 652-9080, McFarlandAdvantage@gmail.com. DISCLAIMERS: Advertisements in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement The pages in this magazine have been by the magazine or Alabama Farmers enriched with Layar and contain digital Federation. Editorial information from content that you can view using your sources outside the Alabama Farmers smartphone. 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.

e with

HOW IT WORKS:

A.L.F.A. Leaders

Branding Appeal

Shocking Business

Career Matters

Blueberry Havens

Tiny Trotters

Country Kitchen

On The Cover

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Pat Foster, owner of Impressible Minis, grooms a foal with the4help of her assistant Rodas Domingo. Photo by Mike Moody Scan

www.AlfaFarmers.org

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation AUGUST 2013

Pages in this magazine have been enriched with Layar and contain digital content that can be viewed using a smartphone. See instructions below. Step 1: Download the free Layar app for iPhone or Android.

Step 2: Look for pages with the Layar logo.

Step 3: Open the Layar app, hold the phone above the page and tap to scan it.

Step 4: Hold your phone above the page to view the interactive content. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

A.L.F.A. Leaders Program Reaches Halfway Point By Mary Johnson

oung farmers from across the state sharpened leadership skills and toured farms and factories during the Agricultural Leaders for Alabama (A.L.F.A.) meeting in North Alabama June 25-27. The two-year program develops young farmers personally and professionally to become better leaders in their communities and the Alabama Farmers Federation. North Alabama community leaders addressed the class during the fourth meeting of the eight-session A.L.F.A. Leaders program. Cleburne County farmer Eric Lovvorn said he enjoyed hearing from past program graduates Will Ainsworth and State Sen. Clay Scofield, R-Red Hill. “People of that stature, we can look up to and see what we may want to do in the future,” he said. “Being around positive people helps me see how a positive attitude can further my community and the people around me.” The training sessions began at Will Ainsworth’s Dream Ranch hunting lodge near Guntersville, with talks from Marshall County farmer Corey Hill, the mayor of Douglas and an A.L.F.A. Leader graduate; Guntersville City Councilman George Gillen; and Marshall County Convention and Visitors Bureau Interim Director Lindsey King. Other tour stops featured a poultry Left: A.L.F.A. Leaders watch as a barge of soybeans is unloaded at the Cargill Soybean Crushing Facility in Guntersville. Below: The group visits Jeremy Calvert’s farm in Cullman County where he grows vegetables like peppers and eggplants.

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AUGUST 2013

processing plant; Cargill; Mickey Childers’ dairy farm in Morgan County; laying houses operated by Cullman County farmer and current A.L.F.A. Leader Lee Haynes; and Jeremy Calvert’s Cullman County fruit and vegetable farm. “On the tours, we saw the farms of folks we already knew and saw how they operate,” said Montgomery County farmer Garrett Henry. “Plus, I’ve seen things I would never otherwise see, like the poultry processing plant. That, and being with a good group of folks from across the state, are the parts I’ll remember the most.” The day ended with dinner at Stone Bridge Farm, owned by Cullman County’s Ron and Sarah Foust. Lovvorn said he plans to apply lessons from A.L.F.A. Leaders in his own community. “This program has been one of the best experiences of my life,” Lovvorn said. “I’ve made friends throughout the state who I’ll never forget and who I’ll always be able to call on. If anyone else in the future has a chance to be in this program, they should definitely do it.” For more information, contact Rick Oates of the Farmers Fed-

AUGUST 2013

Above: A.L.F.A. Leaders enjoyed dinner and a tour at Stone Bridge Farms in Cullman. Front row, from left are Shawn Keel, Calhoun County; Eric Lovvorn, Cleburne County; Colin Wilson, Jackson County; Lee Haynes, Cullman County; and Josh Turner, DeKalb County. Back row; from left, Nick Gibbs, Etowah County; Zach Burns, Marshall County; Jeremy Brown, Montgomery County; Garrett Henry, Montgomery County; Justin Barrett, Elmore County; Allie Corcoran, Barbour County; Jay Stewart, Clay County; Clint McElmoyl, DeKalb County; and Abby Stewart, Clay County. Leaders not pictured are Hope Cassebaum, Baldwin County; and Grant Buck, Sumter County. Photo at left: Lovvorn, Turner and Henry examine egg packaging equipment at Lee Haynes’ poultry farm.

eration at (334) 613-4305 or email ROates@AlfaFarmers.org. Program details are also available online at

www.alfafarmers.org/programs/ alfa_leaders.phtml. n

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By Katie Wendland

O BRANDING BASICS u There are 845 brands registered in Alabama by the Animal Industry Division Stockyards and Brands Section of the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries. u The brand office recognizes hot iron brands and freeze brands but requires registration before a brand can be used on an animal. u A $20 registration fee guarantees use of the brand for five years. Brands are renewed by paying the fee and re-submitting an application.

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ne of the oldest methods of identifying cattle may prove to be a valuable tool against rustling. Branding is one of the best ways to permanently identify animals, some cattlemen claim. Cullman County Farmers Federation Board Member Darrel Haynes has Cullman County branded cattle on his famcattleman Darrel ily farm for nearly 40 years. Haynes brands his In the late ‘70s, Haynes’ cattle with a scripted H connected to a brother-in-law designed and scripted F. registered the brand that became the trademark of more than a hundred years,” Jaeger said. Haynes Farms. However, Haynes described “However, when it comes to rustling, a the scripted H connected to the scripted F brand is only as good as the ability of the as more than just a mark. cattle owner to enforce its authenticity.” “Branding is an art that takes practice to Locked gates are another safeguard used make perfect,” Haynes said. “We live in an around Cullman County cattle farms, said area where there are small pastures everyHaynes, who hasen’t had any cattle stolen. where. I have several neighbors with cows Haynes hasn’t had cattle stolen. But brandand, inevitably, some will get out. Because ing could be a reason, he said. brands are permanent, they have proven Haynes credits diligent stockyard workthe easiest way to keep track of animals in ers for calling when cattle carrying his areas surrounded by other livestock.” brand are sold at public auction, just to While brands are applied in various loca- make sure he has no missing cattle. Typitions on the cow, most are branded on the cally, he said, it’s cattle his farm sold to hip. Hot iron brands are popular, but freeze another farmer. n branding is common among some farmers. _______________________________________ In addition to hot iron branding, Haynes For more information on branding, contact the Alabama Stockyard and Brands office at the Alabama Department also uses ear tags are a part of his management scheme. However, he considers brand- of Agriculture and Industries at (334) 240-7263. ing a sign of superiority. “We sell replacement heifers, and our brand is a mark of quality,” Haynes said. “Our brand is not only a marketing tool, but a pledge we are providing a high-quality animal for purchase.” Branding and tagging works well for Haynes, but Alabama Farmers Federation Beef Division Director Nate Jaeger said cattlemen across the state should take additional precautions when maintaining herd records. “Brands have been the best form A heifer at Haynes Farms is branded on her left hip. of permanent cattle identification for 6

AUGUST 2013

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he Alabama Farmers Federation Discussion Meet and Excellence in Agriculture winners will ride off with a new set of wheels, thanks to prizes from contest sponsors. The Discussion Meet winner will receive a fourwheeler from First South Farm Credit. Preliminaries are at the Commodity Producers Conference in August. The finals are at the Federation’s annual meeting in December. The Excellence in Agriculture winner wins a zeroturn John Deere mower courtesy of Dow AgroSciences. The competition is for individuals involved in agriculture who do not earn more than half their income from production agriculture. Winners will be named at the Commodity Conference. Winners from both contests receive an expenses-paid trip to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s annual meeting in January courtesy of the Alabama Farmers Federation. The AFBF meeting is Jan. 12-15 in San Antonio, Texas. For more information on the contests, visit AlfaYoungFarmers.org or contact Jennifer Himburg at (334) 612-5159. n

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Beth Chapman To Join Alabama Farmers Federation Staff

third term as Secretary of State. Federation. labama Farmers Federation is She earlier announced plans to “The people of Alfa are what hiring of outgoing Secretary leave public office and pursue the spirit of Alabama embodies of State Beth Chapman as a solid, hard-working peopolitical consultant, ple who make an honest effective Aug. 1. living. I am proud to be Federation President working with them,” Jimmy Parnell said Chapman said. Chapman’s knowledge, Brian Hardin, direccharacter and experitor of the Federation’s ence with the electoral Department of Govprocess will serve the ernmental Affairs, said organization well. Chapman will serve as “Beth is a friend of a contract employee in farmers and shares the charge of research and values, goals and concampaign services. cerns of our members,” “We are excited to Parnell said. “She is have Beth on our team,” respected for her integHardin said. “As we rity and citizenship. We prepare for the 2014 look forward to working elections, she will help with Beth as the FedBeth Chapman and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy surface candidates, coneration supports candi- Parnell at the Federation’s legislative reception earlier this year. duct research, organize dates who will fight for grassroots activities and advise Alabama families.” opportunities in the private secFederation-endorsed candidates on Chapman is prohibited by tor. She said she is excited about campaign strategies.” n law from seeking re-election to a the opportunity to work for the

Wade Hill

State Hay & Forage Committee Chairman Some farmers focus on one agricultural venture. Others, like Lawrence County’s Wade Hill, appreciate the flexibility of a diversified homestead. “I farm in partnership with my parents. Together, we have 200 acres of row crops, around 100 head of cows, 35 horses, a few hogs and chicks and about 100 acres of commercial hay production,” said Hill, 44, chairman of the Federation’s State Hay & Forage Committee. Though their diversity provides income potential, Hill says it’s a challenge to manage input costs and remain profitable. “Some days are better than others, but I try to remind myself there is no such thing as a bad day,” he said. “Every day the Lord lets me get up and work on the farm is a great one.”

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AUGUST 2013

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• Social Media- From Facebook to Twitter, keep up with friends and family • Video Chat- It’s fantastic… and it’s free. • Games- Play by yourself, or play with friends online. WOW! The perfect name for this amazing computer. I have been using it for about a month and thoroughly enjoy the speed and ease in which I am able to download pictures from my camera and share them with family and friends via email. Everything is so easy to use at the touch of my fingertips. To be able to chat with and see my grandchildren is as though they are here with me. I haven't begun to explore all the benefits of this computer. It has opened up a whole new world for me. I love it, love it, love it! – Carol K., Benbrook, TX

Shocking the Competition

By Katie Wendland

razen bulls attempting an escape may change directions after a run-in with a shocking east Alabama business product. “Our goal is to manufacture the best fence charger in the world,” said Mark Taylor, whose father, Donald, started Taylor Fence Co. in 1998. “We buy most of our parts locally and assemble each charger by hand to guarantee a final product of higher quality than any available on the market.” Mark, a member of the St. Clair County Farmers Federation, said his father spent his retired years traveling north Alabama repairing broken fence chargers. Donald Taylor opened the business after deciding there was a market for a superior electric fence charger. Mark bought the business in 2008 and continued to improve designs his father spent years perfecting. Mark’s son, Alex, manages daily operations of the company, including repairs and shipping. Alex said he takes pride in customer satisfaction, adding that word-of-mouth is the company’s best advertising. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

From left, Diana, Mark, Alex and Emily Taylor of Taylor Fence, Inc., where Cyclops fence chargers are assembled by hand and tested prior to sale.

Jackson County Farmers Federation member Clay Kennamer is a good example. Kennamer owns Kennamer Livestock Co., and said he has used Cyclops Fence Chargers for nearly 12 years. “I have five of the Taylors’ fence chargers right now,” Kennamer said. “I would recommend the chargers to anyone who plans to keep a lot of cattle. I have been impressed with the charger’s durability and resistance to weeds and briars that hinder the effectiveness of ordinary fence chargers.” The Taylors’ first chargers were designed to eliminate problems characteristic of chargers Donald frequently repaired for others. Mark said the early years in the family business were trying. Those obstacles, he said, made it hard to imagine the goal of becoming an international competitor could materialize. The company now offers 13 models ranging from $125-$900, with a power range from 1.5 to 32 joules for plug-in, battery- and solar-powered chargers. Each model 10

is assembled and tested “under load,” the equivalent of a fence with a heavy weeds on it, before it’s offered for sale. The unique design of the Cyclops chargers includes two fuses, one for the power cord to protect the transformer from lightning damage and one connected to the fence. “At Taylor Fence, we’ve always worked to make our customers happy,” Alex said. “We have a product with a good reputation and a repair policy second to none. We know timely repair is as important to our customers as durability in the field, so we do what we say we will do — and more.” Mark said he would like to eventually offer a universal wireless remote control for customers to use on new and existing Cyclops Fence Chargers, a project he’s working on in his spare time. Contact Alex Taylor at (205) 594-5971 or alex@taylorfence.net, or visit TaylorFence.net for more information. n

AUGUST 2013

Agriculture Impacts Local Communities

new survey shows farming and forestry’s is having a big economic impact across Alabama. Cullman County has the largest economic impact related to agriculture and forestry at $948.6 million, according to the county data at www.AlabamaAgImpact.com. Rounding out the top-five counties in Alabama are DeKalb, Mobile, Marshall and Baldwin. “Farming drives the economies of many Alabama communities,” said Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “With more than $70 billion in economic impact, our industry creates one in every five jobs. The future is bright, but we must continue to invest in agriculture and give farmers the freedom to compete in the marketplace.” Statistics for the report were collected as part of the statewide 2013 Economic Impacts of Agriculture and Forestry Study, conducted by Auburn University and the Alabama

Cooperative Extension System with the support of the Alabama Farmers Federation. Other partners include the Alabama Agribusiness Council, Alabama Power Co., Alabama Poultry and Egg Association, CropLife America and the Alabama Nursery and Landscape Association. n

AlabamaAgImpact.com

Alabama’s Top Commodity Counties BROILERS

CATTLE

CORN

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1. Cullman 2. DeKalb 3. Marshall 1. Cullman 2. DeKalb 3. Montgomery 1. Lawrence 2. Limestone 3. Colbert 1. Limestone 2. Jackson 3. Madison 1. Escambia 2. Madison 3. Lauderdale 1. Baldwin 2. Houston 3. Geneva 1. Hale 2. Dallas 3. Greene

Ben Haynes

State Wheat & Feed Grains Committee Member Working in the family business is a blessing, according to fifth-generation farmer Ben Haynes, who farms with his father, Darrel and brother, Bart, at the diversified Haynes Farms in Fairview. “I am indebted to previous generations for their hard work and sacrifice,” said Haynes, who serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation State Wheat and Feed Grains Committee. The farm keeps Haynes busy with 600 head of cattle and 1,000 acres of soybeans, wheat and corn. “A great day is when it rains in August, and I can ride around with my family checking on a good crop and green pastures,” he said. Haynes and wife Whitney have three children: Jack, 5, Lola Kate, 2 and Charlie, 3 months. They attend Mount Olive Church in the Simcoe Community. “I love seeing our kids learning the same lessons about hard work, nature and responsibility that I did while growing up on the farm,” Haynes said. AUGUST 2013

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Mary Johnson

of Education (ALSDE) supported an additional $50 million to update career tech equipment. Thirty million dollars will be disbursed based on number of career tech programs and student enrollment. High schools must apply for the remaining $20 million available to new and established programs as reimbursement. Career tech programs must partner with local industries to fulfill application requirements. “It’s important our members contact schools and create working industry partnerships,” said Federation Young Farmers Director Jennifer Himburg, who serves on the governor’s College and Career Ready Task Force. “Rural Alabama and the agriculture industry have fallen behind larger manufacturers in building career tech partnerships. If we don’t act, the $20 million available for grants will go to schools with established industry relationships, and rural career tech programs, including agriscience departments, will fall further behind.”

Bradley Helms of Etowah County has a passion for repairing machines and discovering how they work. The 2010 graduate of Gaston High School developed valuable skills while tinkering with equipment in agriscience classes in the school’s career tech program. “If you learn a good trade, (opportunities) will always be there,” said Helms, who is currently studying industrial automation at Gadsden State Community College and works as a computer numerical control (CNC) machine operator. “Having updated equipment makes things easier. For (students) to do their best, they have to have the best tools possible.” Training students to capitalize on the demand for skilled labor is the driving force behind increased funding for career tech programs in Alabama public schools. During the 2013 legislative session, the Alabama Farmers Federation and the Alabama State Department Gaston High School graduate Bradley Helms, left, uses career tech skills learned from agriscience teacher Paul Beasley, right, in college and the workplace. Helms is an industrial automation student at Gadsden State Community College and a machine operator.

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AUGUST 2013

WANT TO KNOW MORE? • Ask your local high school agriscience department or career tech center about establishing an industry partnership. • Visit AlCareerTech.org for more information on Alabama’s career tech programs.

Wilcox Central High School (WCHS) agriscience teacher Willie Gholston, second from left, and senior Keontris Williams, kneeling, help Alberta resident Matthe Jackson, left, pick peas in his garden. Gholston’s class uses equipment to grow plants for community gardens like Jackson’s.

Statistics show investing in career tech pays dividends for students, schools and communities. According to ALSDE, students with strong career tech backgrounds show improved math and science test scores when compared to other students. The national career tech graduation rate is 90 percent, a full 15 points higher than the national graduation rate, according to the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium. Wilcox Central High School Career Tech Department Head Willie Gholston said he’s seen firsthand how proper career tech training changes students into productive citizens with marketable skills. “When kids leave this classroom to go out to industry, business leaders say over and over they want someone who’s used the latest equipment — the equipment used by their business,” said Gholston, one of Alabama’s 2013 FFA Advisors of the Year. “That’s why it’s important we keep funding and updating our program

AUGUST 2013

and equipment to prepare our students.” Gholston teaches agriscience at WCHS, one of 16 “career clusters” included in Alabama’s career tech curriculum. Keontris Williams, a senior in Gholston’s program, said he plans to use agriscience skills in his career. “I can see myself being a farmer after I graduate,” Williams said. “Career tech is like a second school for me. I always look forward to these classes.” Williams and Helms are just two examples of students excelling because of career tech. According to Helms, lessons he learned from GHS agriscience teacher Paul Beasley extend far beyond the school shop. “We always had fun, and there was never a dull moment,” said Helms. “Mr. Beasley always taught us to work hard and finish what we started, whether it’s in the (workplace) or at home.” n

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Adjusters Focus On Poultry Houses, Large Equipment By Miranda Mattheis

team of adjusters specializing in poultry houses and large farm equipment is helping Alfa Insurance save money while streamlining farm-related claims. “We introduced Poultry House/ Farm Machinery adjusters in 2006 and saw some savings,” said District Claims Manager Robert Godsey. “They do inspections for underwriting on new and returning business for both new and old construction, including poultry houses. We saw savings go up, and the loss ratio went down tremendously.” The savings in claims were the result of how adjusters assessed claims, Godsey explained. “Previously on older poultry houses that were damaged, we would just do a major teardown and rebuild,” Godsey said. “The adjusters talked to some of the builders, and came up with engineerapproved ways to repair houses at lower costs.” For Alfa’s policyholders, that’s good news, especially poultry farmers. “As we work to increase Alfa’s poultry house business, these adjusters are going to play a critical roll in keeping expenses down for policyholders,” said Alfa President Jimmy Parnell. The specialized adjusters, Marc Peters in Gadsden, Kent Skinner in Dothan and Arthur Young in Oneonta, agree the best part of their jobs is building close relationships with customers. “Our customers feel they can

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From left, Alfa Insurance poultry house/machinery adjusters Kent Skinner and Marc Peters meet with Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell to discuss ways Alfa and policyholders can save money on poultry house and farm equipment claims.

be better served because we have specialized training for poultry houses and farm equipment,” Skinner said. “I feel we can have a quick response time because we are focusing on farm customers.” Young, who has lived on a farm his whole life, understands time is money when it comes to farming. As an adjuster, his focus is to get farmers back in business as quickly as possible. “You realize a large part of a farmer’s income comes from his poultry houses, and it is important we address those needs as fast as possible when a claim occurs,” Young said. “Similarly, a farmer who has a tractor or other equipment that needs repairs, needs

them made as fast as possible. If a farmer has hay on the ground, he can’t wait an excessive amount of time for a claim to be processed, or the hay will ruin. Alfa realizes this and has the resources to respond in a timely manner to these situations.” Focusing on fast claims service is a cornerstone of Alfa Insurance, Parnell said. “The Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa were started by farmers, and it’s important we are sensitive to the needs of farmers and all our policyholders,” he said. “These specialized adjusters help farmers get their claims settled fast so they can get back to making a living on the farm.” n

AUGUST 2013

Five-day bus tour leaves Portland and includes visits to Mt. Saint Helens/Weyerhaeuser Forestry Operations, Discovery Museum at the World Forestry Center, a cruise on the Columbia River Gorge and stops at other historic and forestry-related sites in Oregon.

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really love the blueberries. I’ve been fortunate to watch some families grow up from summer to summer.” While he may be known around east Alabama as the Blueberry Man, Havens’ hobby-turned-livelihood is something he had to learn. “There were farms around our home [in Illinois], but Dad was a blue-collar telephone company man,” he said. “During my 20s, I started working on my doctorate at Auburn and moved just outside the city. In my free time, I enjoyed gardening and working in the dirt. I guess the dream of living off the land blossomed from there.” To accommodate his dreams, he moved to a more rural area and never looked back. There’s just something special about the rolling hills, winding dirt roads and Mitchell Creek that surround his land, he explained. “The land is serene, but it’s also ideal for fruit trees. Because of what my work schedule was back then, blueberries seemed a perfect fit,” Havens said. “I could plant and tend to the bushes and the land while school was in, and blueberry season hit its peak while I was on summer break. It was something I continued to look forward to year after year. I was like the students, I suppose... I couldn’t wait for summer.” Farming comes with its own risks, and Havens said an initial lack of interest in the now-popular fruit could have been Blueberry Havens’ downfall. Thirty years ago, few farmers grew blueberries, and the average consumer

By Melissa Martin

ush bushes loaded with plump, blue-gray berries are one of the South’s most anticipated signs of summer. For Tallapoosa County’s Rod Havens, the stocked shrubs at his Camp Hill farm double as a welcome mat for new and returning customers. “Blueberry Havens is home to 40 acres of blueberries, or about 20,000 bushes, in six fields,” said Havens, 63, who began cultivating the 220-acre timber and blueberry farm about 30 years ago after retiring as a counselor at Auburn City Schools. “People from across the Southeast drive to my farm because they

Countless folks travel to Rod Havens’ blueberry farm in Tallapoosa County each summer. To help bring the farm experience to customers’ homes, Havens began selling blueberry bushes a few years ago. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

AUGUST 2013

Odessa Lashley, right, has picked blueberries at Havens’ farm for more than two decades. Some of the happiest times of her life, she said, were spent filling buckets one berry at a time.

wasn’t aware of their health benefits. Still, he continued expanding the farm, persevering with faith and foresight. “It’s something you have to love to be successful,” said Havens, Tallapoosa County Farmers Federation’s first vice president. “You have to love the land, love getting your hands dirty and love working outside in God’s splendor. You also have to work through the trying times. Something I learned from my years as a counselor is how a positive mental outlook can translate well into life.” His original plan was to harvest berries for wholesale, but his strategy shifted in the years leading up to the trees bearing substantial volumes of fruit. Havens said the change became a blessing because he has a genuine love of sharing his own “haven” with others. Over the years, the bounty of blueberries increased alongside Blueberry Havens’ U-pick customer base, and additional hands were needed. Odessa Lashley, a customer-turned-picker, has helped Havens pick every summer for more than two decades. Like a lot of customers, Lashley’s picking has become a family affair. For a few days a week during prime harvest season, she plucks gallons of the ripest berries with sister, Mary, and her son, Tommy. Knowing which berries are bucket-worthy, she says, is an art. “A lot of folks just see blue and yank ‘em off, but that’s not the way to do it,” Lashley said. “The best berries know when they’re ready. They’re deep blue, and they practically fall off the vine and into the bucket. Like anything in life, if ya have to force it, it ain’t right.” A bulk of what the Lashleys pick helps Havens fulfill his we-pick

orders. For customers who don’t have time (or a desire) to pick their own, Blueberry Havens offers freshly picked, washed and packaged blueberries for $14 a gallon, the equivalent of roughly eight pints, or 6 pounds of fruit. Meanwhile, U-pick customers pay $7 a gallon. The farm also offers Rabbit eye, Tift Blue and Premiere blueberry bushes for $5 each. Havens recommends customers plant two kinds together for cross-pollination. Low prices and word-of-mouth are certainly a factor in the farm’s success, but Havens believes the “treasure hunt” mentality behind gathering one’s own food entices more people to take to the fields. For Lashley, it’s more. “Life is sweet, but it can be short,” she said. “It’s best to enjoy every minute you can. I’m nearly 86 years old, and some of the happiest times in my life have been on these hills picking blueberries.” Visit Blueberry Havens at 1612 Rainbow Dr., Camp Hill, Ala., 36850. It is open daylight hours every day. For more information see BlueberryHavens.com or call (334) 254-4322, (334) 707-4707. n

See page 28 for blueberry recipies. AUGUST 2013

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Federation Cookbook Wins National Award

he Farming Feeds Alabama Cookbook published by the Alabama Farmers Federation was named Best Communication Tool during the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2013 Communications Conference, held June 22-25 in Portland, Ore. The 248-page, hardcover book is filled with mouth-watering recipes, beautiful photos and numerous stories about hard-working Alabama farm families who help grow the most affordable and abundant food supply in the world. “The cookbook has been a huge success among our members and non-members alike in Alabama, but it is especially nice to know others outside our state, particularly other public relations professionals, recognize the book’s quality,” said Jeff Helms, director of the Federation’s Department of Communications and Public Relations. Several members of the Federation’s staff worked on the cookbook and were recognized for the award. They are Jeff Helms, Paula Culver, Melissa Martin, Debra Davis, Mary Johnson, Katie Wendland and Miranda Mattheis. Federation members can purchase a cookbook online at FarmingFeedsAlabama. com for $22, plus sales tax and shipping. The Grains of Truth campaign, created for the Alabama Wheat and Feed Grains Producers by the Federation’s Communications and Public Relations staff, received honorable mention for the Best Advertising Campaign or Spot. The Layar Application implemented by Director of New Media Mike Moody and used to launch videos that accompany stories in Neighbors magazine, received an honorable mention for Best Use of Single Social Media Platform. n

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AUGUST 2013

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Students discuss the conference agenda with Young Farmers Director Jennifer Himburg outside the Columbiana 4-H Center’s Environmental Science Education Center June 21. From left are Nilan Grimes of Cherokee County, Himburg, Shannon Merida of Clarke County and Ethan Rogers of Cherokee County.

Youth Leadership Conference Promotes Communication, Growth By Melissa Martin

ummer is often spent by the pool, with textbooks and tablets nowhere in sight. But for nearly 80 of Alabama’s best and brightest students, a few of those vacation days were spent improving leadership skills at the Alabama Farmers Federation’s annual Youth Leadership Conference. Held at the 4-H Center in Columbiana June 21-23, the conference provided high school sophomores, juniors and seniors from 33 counties an opportunity to network with peers from similar backgrounds. It allowed them to expand communication skills and foster agricultural involvement. “Youth Leadership Conference attendees are primarily from rural areas, so it’s especially important we teach them the mission of the Alabama Farmers Federation while they’re here,” said Federation Young Farmers Director Jennifer Himburg, who organized the event. “These students have already proven to be leaders in their com-

AUGUST 2013

munities. The skills they’ll gain here will help equip them for life after high school and, with luck, encourage them to pursue a career in agriculture.”   State Young Farmers Committee Member Colin Wilson of Jackson County was a chaperon during the conference. He said planting the roots of agriculture early in students’ minds is essential to developing future leaders who may one day represent Alabama’s numberone industry. “Many of these students will graduate high school this year. By showing them the impact farming and agriculture have on the state now, this conference has the opportunity to create rural allies and advocates,” said Wilson. “Every opportunity farmers have to share their stories with others — especially young people — is an opportunity we need to take advantage of.”   Throughout the conference, students learned to work with others they’ve never met, strengthened their confidence, learned to com21

municate more effectively and built team relationships. Conference attendees also experienced the dangers of driving under the influence by participating in the Fatal Vision simulation, aimed at steering teens toward safe driving. Guest speakers Clark Sims and Janice Johnson led discussions on practical approaches to leadership.  Clarke County High School senior Shannon Merida, 17, said she looked forward to the conference for weeks. “I am so excited to be able to participate in this year’s Youth Leadership Conference,” said Merida. “I’m eager to learn how to strengthen my people skills and meet students from across the state. When I start looking for jobs, I’ll need to be able to communicate effectively with people I know and people I just met. I’m hoping this conference will provide some tips I can use now and in the future.”  n

____________________________________ For more information on the program, visit AlfaYoungFarmers.org.

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Small Horses Bring Big Smiles

Photography by Mike Moody

By Miranda Mattheis

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Top: Pat Foster raises miniature horses at Impressible Minis in Wilmer, Ala. Middle left: Rodas Domingo assists Foster in caring for nearly 90 miniature horses on the Fostersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; farm. Opposite page, middle: Domingo takes a horse out for exercise in the pasture.

AUGUST 2013

mall horses make a big impression on almost everyone who visits Frank and Pat Foster’s Impressible Minis just outside Mobile in Wilmer, Ala. The tiny equines are known for their gentle nature and striking beauty. “They were just so precious,” recalled Shirley York of Coffee County, who toured the farm last year. “They look just like a big horse – but they’re short. The horses would let you pet them, and they weren’t overprotective with their babies.” Interested in the breed for a half-century, the Fosters began their farm more than 30 years ago. “When I lived in Florida and my children were younger, we would visit a mini horse farm,” Pat recalled. “I’d walk around outside the fence and talk to people and find out what I could learn. After my children were grown, I was able to start raising miniature horses, and I love it.” Pat recommends minis to anyone WANT TO KNOW MORE? who loves animals, • The American Miniature Horse Association whether they’re (www.amha.org) is the world’s leading looking for a show miniature horse registry with nearly 185,000 horse or a pet. horses and more than 11,000 members. “Minis are intelligent,” she said. “They try very hard • An official miniature horse must register 34 to please. They’re inches or less in height at 36 months of age. just wonderful animals to have.” • More than 250 AMHA-sponsored shows are Ninety minia-

held annually in the United States and Canada.

AUGUST 2013

ture horses, including five stallions and a group of older, retired horses live on the Fosters’ farm. Caring for that many animals isn’t a one-person job, Pat explained. That’s why she has help from Rodas Domingo, her full-time assistant at Impressible Minis. Domingo helps with breeding and grooming the horses and preparing them for sale. “I don’t show horses anymore,” Pat said. “We just sell them and try to pick good homes for our show horses. It always makes my heart feel good to know our horse is out there doing well and making people happy.” After years of breeding quality horses, Impressible Minis has a big following across the United States. “Every stallion here is either a world champion, a reserve world champion, honor roll champion or has produced world champions. I think that’s one reason a lot of people come to us for horses,” Pat said. Miniature horses are popular, and the Fosters say the market for them is growing. “The miniature market is very good,” Pat said. “There are two types of markets—pet quality and show horses.” Pet quality miniatures cost from $500 to $1,500. The price for a quality show horse usually begins at $1,500, according to the Fosters. “People think they are ponies, but these are smaller than a pony,” Pat said. “Raising miniature horses is a good thing to do that’s enjoyable, and the whole family loves it.” For more information on Impressible Minis, visit www. ImpressibleMinis.com. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

O O O County Annual Meetings O O O Dale

Monday, Aug. 5 @ 7 p.m. Dale Co. Government Bldg. 202 Hwy. 123 S., Ozark Henry Tuesday, Aug. 6 @ 7 p.m. Wiregrass Research & Experiment Center 167 E. State Hwy. 134, Headland Clay Tuesday, Aug. 6 @ 7 p.m. Red’s Catfish Cabin 689 Catfish Rd., Cragford Escambia Tuesday, Aug. 6 @ 6 p.m. Ag Center 175 Ag Science Dr., Brewton Jackson Tuesday, Aug. 6 @ 6:30 p.m. County Federation Office 23625 John T. Reid Pkwy., Scottsboro Barbour Thursday, Aug. 8 @ 7 p.m. Abercrombie Fish Camp 335 Eufaula Ave., Clayton Baldwin Thursday, Aug. 8 @ 7 p.m. Federation Building 21332 Hwy. 59, Robertsdale Calhoun Thursday, Aug. 8 @ 6:30 p.m. County Federation Office 1535 Pelham Rd. S., Jacksonville Coosa Thursday, Aug. 8 @ 6:30 p.m. Old Rockford Schoolhouse Nixburg Rd. & Rd. 18, Rockford Cullman Thursday, Aug. 8 @ 7 p.m. Alfa Office, Main Ave., Cullman Greene Thursday, Aug. 8 @ 6 p.m. Alfa Office Eutaw Lawrence Thursday, Aug. 8 @ 6:30 p.m. Lawrence Co. Ag Center Hwy. 157, Moulton Cherokee Friday, Aug. 9 @ 6:30 p.m. Dean Buttram Senior Center 229 Dean Buttram Ave., Centre Marion Friday, Aug. 9 @ 6 p.m. Hamilton Rec. Center Hamilton Morgan Friday, Aug. 9 @ 7 p.m. Hartselle Civic Center Hartselle Chambers Saturday, Aug. 10 @ 6 p.m. Alfa Service Center 1006 Ave. A S.E., Lafayette Etowah Monday, Aug. 12 @ 6:30 p.m. County Federation Office 125 Broad St., Gadsden Madison Monday, Aug. 12 @ 4 p.m. Holiday Inn Downtown Huntsville Montgomery Monday, Aug. 12 @ 7 p.m. Alfa Home Office Cafeteria 2108 E. South Blvd., Montgomery St. Clair Monday, Aug. 12 @ 7 p.m. Alfa Service Center 32775 U.S. Hwy. 231, Ashville

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Washington Monday, Aug. 12 @ 7 p.m. Federation Building 54 Court St., Chatom Cleburne Tuesday, Aug. 13 @ 6:30 p.m. The Mountain Center 6751 Hwy. 78, Heflin Conecuh Tuesday, Aug. 13 @ 6 p.m. David Burt Building 102 Liberty St., Evergreen Bullock Thursday, Aug. 15 @ 6:30 p.m. Greenway Sportsman’s Club 2621 Hwy. 223, Union Springs Franklin Tuesday, Aug. 13 @ 7 p.m. Best Western Inn Hwy. 43, Russellville Houston Tuesday, Aug. 13 @ 6:30 p.m. Alfa Office 1038 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan Lauderdale Tuesday, Aug. 13 @ 6:30 p.m. Underwood-Petersville Senior Center Florence Shelby Tuesday, Aug. 13 @ 6:30 p.m. Alfa Service Center 256 S. Main St., Columbiana Blount Thursday, Aug. 15 @ 6:30 p.m. (BBQ served @ 6 p.m.) Frank J. Green Building, Oneonta Covington Thursday, Aug. 15 @ 7 p.m. Oakwood Lodge 13725 Brooklyn Rd., Andalusia Lamar Thursday, Aug. 15 @ 6 p.m. City Auditorium Vernon Talladega Thursday, Aug. 15 @ 7 p.m. Alfa Office 314 E. Battle St., Talladega Tuscaloosa Thursday, Aug. 15 @ 7 p.m. Bobby Miller Center Tuscaloosa Limestone Friday, Aug. 16 @ 6 p.m. Veterans Museum Athens Randolph Saturday, Aug. 17 @ 5 p.m. Wedowee Kiwanis Park, Antique Tractor Pavilion, Hwy. 431, Wedeowee Butler Monday, Aug. 19 @ 6 p.m. Pioneer Electric Building 300 Herbert St., Greenville Monroe Monday, Aug. 19 @ 6:30 p.m. Ag Center 334 Agriculture Dr., Monroeville Russell Monday, Aug. 19 @ 6 p.m. CST Old Russell Court House 5 Jackson St., Seale Fayette Tuesday, Aug. 20 @ 6 p.m. Fayette Civic Center Fayette Geneva Tuesday, Aug. 20 @ 7 p.m. Geneva Farm Center 2765 Hwy. 52, Geneva

Autauga Dekalb Pickens Jefferson Chilton Colbert Bibb Choctaw Marshall Tallapoosa Clarke Walker Dallas Macon Perry Hale Lowndes Crenshaw Winston Marengo

Wednesday, Aug. 21 @ 7 p.m. Autauga Co. Ag Center 2224 Hwy. 14 W., Autaugaville Thursday, Aug. 22 @ 6:30 p.m. Alfa Insurance Office Building 346 McCurdy Ave. S., Rainsville Thursday, Aug. 22, @ 6 p.m. Gates Restaurant Aliceville Friday, Aug. 23 @ 10 a.m. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Ireland Room, 2612 Lane Park Rd., Birmingham Monday, Aug. 26 @ 7 p.m. Clanton Recreation Center 309 1st St. N., Clanton Monday, Aug. 26 @ 7 p.m. NW Shoals Jr. College Muscle Shoals Tuesday, Aug. 27 @ 5 p.m. Alfa Office Centerville Tuesday, Aug. 27 @ 6 p.m. Federation Building 229 Mulberry Ave., Butler Tuesday, Aug. 27 @ 7 p.m. County Federation Office 1333 Blount Ave., Guntersville Tuesday, Aug. 27 @ 6:30 p.m. Tallapoosa Co. Farmers Federation Bldg. 111 N. Tallassee St., Dadeville Thursday, Aug. 29 @ 6:30 p.m. Federation Building 148 S. Jackson St., Grove Hill Thursday, Aug 29 @ 6 p.m. Alfa Office, 903 Airport Rd. S., Jasper Tuesday, Sept. 3 @ 6 p.m. Alfa Office Selma Tuesday, Sept. 3 @ 6 p.m. Beck’s Turf 2858 Co. Rd. 53, Tuskegee Tuesday, Sept. 3 @ 11 a.m. Alfa Office Marion Thursday, Sept. 5 @ 1 p.m. Alfa Office Greensboro Monday, Sept. 9 @ 6:30 p.m. Hayneville Baptist Church 1180 State Hwy. 21 N., Hayneville Thursday, Sept. 12 @ 6:30 p.m. E.L. Turner Park 93 Ball Park Rd., Brantley Hwy, Luverne Thursday, Sept. 12 @ 6 p.m. Traders and Farmers Bank Double Springs Tuesday, Sept. 17 @ 6:30 p.m. Alfa Office Linden

AUGUST 2013

Butch Wilson, Dallas County Catfish farmer

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By Lois Chaplin

labama is blessed with many species of birds that gardeners often befriend, and it’s rewarding to know what is flying around the garden. The Alabama Ornithological Society (AOS) states more than 400 species of birds have been found in Alabama; about a third are regular residents, while the balance are migrants or winter residents (the real snowbirds). That’s about half of all species recognized by the American Birding Association for the entire U.S. My late mother-in-law introduced me to birding and often extended invitations to attend Audubon workshops. Binoculars in her car also identified her as a dedicated birder. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says to be a birder one must have either taken a trip a mile or more from home for the purpose of identifying birds or tried to identify birds around the home. Regardless of whether someone officially qualifies as a birder, most gardeners are simply curious to know what bird is singing in the trees or maybe pecking at tomatoes. There are many ways to learn. One great resource published by the AOS is a book, A Birder’s Guide to Alabama, available at Amazon.com. There are many online sources, too. Two particularly easy to use for picture and song identification are the Cornell Lab of Ornithology (allaboutbirds.org) and BirdJam.com. Many observers know a cardinal or a hummingbird by sight, but it’s more difficult to identify them just by hearing their songs and calls. For gardeners whose curiosity leads to becoming an official birder, Alabama is a fabulous place. All of Dauphin Island is a bird sanctuary, making it a great place to visit, especially during fall and spring migrations of birds that stop there on the way to or from Central America. In fact, the island has been named one of the top-10 birding spots in all of the U.S. The coast also hosts a birding festival each fall that includes activities for all ages. For more information go to AlabamaCoastalBirdfest.com. Alabama has dozens of birding sites around the state, and more are planned as part of an organized

trail. Trails include the North Alabama Trail at Wheeler Wildlife Refuge in Decatur (fws.gov/wheeler), which is home to lots of songbirds. It is especially rich in inland waterfowl. The state’s trails link a number of sites organized as part of a growing system in these regions: North, West, Piedmont, Appalachian Highlands, Black Belt, Piney Woods, Wiregrass and Coastal. More details can be found at AlabamaBirdingTrails. com, a joint project of state, federal and private organizations. Back in the garden, there is still time to hang hummingbird feeders. Buying nectar isn’t necessary. Instead, use a homemade mix of simple syrup that’s 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. Change the water if the feeder gets cloudy. Hummingbirds are attracted to many nectarrich garden flowers such as pineapple sage and other salvias, agastache, penstemon, four-o’clocks, pentas, verbena and bee balm. Easy-to-grow woody plants they really like include abelia, vitex and butterfly bush. A garden full of nectar flowers not only attracts hummingbirds, but bees that pollinate fruit and vegetables enjoy them, too. n ___________________________________ Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

SWEET SUMMERTIME SAVINGS. WWW.ALAFARM.COM AUGUST 2013

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Low-Fat Blueberry Lemon Muffins 1 ½ cups flour ½ cup yellow cornmeal 1/3 cup sugar 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon grated lemon peel 1 cup blueberries 8 ounces lemon yogurt ¼ cup nonfat milk 1 egg 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Preheat over to 425 F. Coat a 12-muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, stir flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, lemon peel, baking soda and salt until mixed. Stir in blueberries. In a small bowl, whisk remaining ingredients until blended. Add to flour mixture and stir until just moistened. Drop batter into tin, filling each two-thirds full. Bake 15 minutes or until golden brown. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

By Melissa Martin

ew things epitomize the sweetness of summer more than farm-fresh blueberries. Plucked one by one from lush shrubs, each berry brings with it the promise of a delicious, antioxidant-packed bite. While the taste and abundance of the unofficial summertime fruit are appealing qualities, blueberries’ versatility shifts people from general consumers to food connoisseurs. They’re great freshly picked, but blueberries also — to quote Annelle from Steel Magnolias — “freeze beautifully.” In Alabama, peak season for blueberries runs from June 28

through early August. U-pick farms across the state offer customers the chance to pick gallons of blueberries, which can be eaten immediately or frozen for later use. To locate a U-pick farm or farmers market, visit http:// bit.ly/12wylEx. Use blueberries in recipes, add them atop cereal or just eat them by themselves — options truly are endless. This month’s Country Kitchen features favorite recipes from “Blueberry Man” Rod Havens of Tallapoosa County. Read more about his farm, Blueberry Havens, on page 16 of this issue. AUGUST 2013

Blueberry Cookies 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 egg 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder ½ cup butter ½ cup milk 1 cup sugar 2 ½ cups blueberries ½ teaspoon lemon flavoring

Stir together dry ingredients. Cream butter and sugar. Add beaten egg, lemon flavoring and milk alternately with the flour mixture. Fold in blueberries, dropping 1 ½ inches apart on greased cookie sheet. Bake 12-15 minutes at 375 F. Blueberry Baskets 1 can dinner roll dough ¼ cup brown sugar 1 tablespoon flour ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground ginger 1 cup blueberries 2 tablespoons butter

Break dough into 12 balls and place each ball in greased 12-cup muffin pan. Let stand at room temperature about one hour or until thawed. When thawed, make a deep indentation in middle of each ball. Combine sugar, flour and spices. Fill each dough ball with 1 teaspoon brown sugar mixture and a tablespoon of blueberries. Sprinkle evenly with remaining brown sugar mixture. Top each with ½ teaspoon butter. Let dough rest 15 minutes. Bake at 350 F for 15 minutes or until dough browns. Blueberry Sorbet ½ cup sugar ½ cup water 2 cups blueberries Lemon juice 1 egg white

Boil sugar and water together until sugar is dissolved. Run blueberries through processor until pureed, then mash through a fine sieve to remove pulp. Add simple syrup and lemon juice and process until mixed. Put in freezer until frozen softly, then process again with one egg white. Freeze again.

Blueberry Pancakes 2 eggs, separated 1 cup flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons sugar ½ teaspoon cinnamon 1 ¼ cups milk 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 cup blueberries

Beat egg whites until stiff. In another bowl, mix dry ingredients, egg yolks and milk. Add oil. Fold in egg whites and blueberries. Pour over hot griddle, flipping each side after 2-3 minutes. Serve warm.

Berry Good Tips

l One pint of blueberries is equal to 2 cups. l Blueberries are ranked No. 1 in antioxidants compared with 40 other fruits and vegetables. l Blueberries should be a deep indigo color before picking. l Cover berries and store in refrigerator after purchasing or picking. They will keep up to 10 days. Wash before using. l To freeze blueberries, spread washed, dry berries on a cookie sheet and put in freezer until frozen. Transfer frozen berries to an airtight freezer container or plastic bag. l To prevent blueberries from settling to the bottom of batter, lightly coat them with flour before adding to mix. Blueberry Energy Shake ½ cup blueberries 1 cup skim milk 2 tablespoons peanut butter 2 teaspoons honey 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Whirl all ingredients in electric blender until smooth. Pour into tall glass and serve.

Blueberry Tea Biscuits 2 cups plain flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon salt 2 tablespoons sugar ¼ cup shortening ¾ cup milk 1 cup blueberries 2 cups powdered sugar ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 3 tablespoons blueberry juice or water

Preheat oven to 450 F. Mix flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. With pastry blender, cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add milk and mix well. Add blueberries. Knead and roll out dough ½ -inch thick. Cut out with biscuit cutter. Place biscuits on greased cookie sheet and bake 12 to 15 minutes. Combine powdered sugar, vanilla extract and blueberry juice in a bowl, stirring well. Pour over biscuits as a glaze. Blueberry Cake ½ cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 3 eggs 1 cup sour cream 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 2 cups blueberries, dusted with flour ½ cup brown sugar ½ teaspoon cinnamon ½ cup chopped nuts (optional) Confectioner’s sugar for garnish.

Cream butter, sugar and vanilla. Add eggs, one at a time. Stir in sour cream. Add dry ingredients and mix well. Fold in blueberries. Spread half of batter into greased 9- X 13-inch pan. In another bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon and nuts and sprinkle over batter in pan. Spread remaining batter over top and bake at 350 F for 40-45 minutes. Cool in pan and sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar. n

Editor’s Note: Recipes published in the “Country Kitchen” are not kitchen-tested prior to publication. Visit www.AlfaFarmers.org for more recipes. Recommend a favorite cook who is a member of the Alabama Farmers Federation by emailing AlabamaCountryKitchen@gmail.com. AUGUST 2013

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ÂŠ2013 United Soybean Board