Neighbors Magazine, September 2016 by Alabama Farmers Federation

VOLUME 41,

NUMBER 8

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

Fall/September 2016

_____________________________________

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

In This Issue

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Farming Feeds Alabama

12 Celebrate Honey Month 20 New County Member Benefits

25 Gravlee’s Formula For Success 31 This School Rocks 36 Country Kitchen

On The Cover

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

www.AlfaFarmers.org

Farmers Gather For Conference

10 Bama’s Best Catfish Challenge

MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES: , 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org

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.

Alabama’s Outstanding Young Farm Family, Stewart and Kasey McGill of Madison County and their daughters Allie, Reece and Peyton. Photo by Caleb Hicks

Misconceptions About Agriculture

MYTH: Pesticides aren’t used on organic fruits and vegetables. over 20 naturally derived pesticides and FACT: Actually, fungicides are approved by USDA for use on organic crops.

Source: Washington State University 3

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

Annual Commodity Conference Full Of Firsts For Federation By Marlee Moore

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

Above: farmers on the Federation's Commodity Producers Conference Green Tour learned about drone use in the timber industry. Right: other farmers enjoyed looking at a variety of crops and livestock on tours throughout southwest Alabama.

capes, Table Runners and Quilting contests were announced at the Women’s Leadership luncheon. “Let’s Talk,” Saturday afternoon’s general session, featured a panel of agriculture and forestry deans from Alabama’s land-grant universities, as well as Alabama Cooperative Extension System director. The interactive discussion, which touched on agricultural research, workforce development and more, encouraged members to use the Poll Everywhere smartphone app to ask questions. At the closing banquet, Young Farmers awards were presented for Discussion Meet, Excellence In Agriculture and Outstanding Young 4

Photo by Caleb Hicks

he 44th Commodity Producers Conference was chock-full of firsts for the Alabama Farmers Federation, from a social media contest to an interactive question-and-answer session and a live Facebook stream announcing the Outstanding Young Farm Family. Nearly 800 farmers were welcomed to Mobile July 28 by U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne, R-Fairhope, a staunch supporter of agriculture who spoke on the importance of farmers at the opening banquet. “I never lose sight of the fact that agriculture is Alabama’s No. 1 industry,” Byrne said. “Agriculture is a part of our way of life, and it is a part of all of us.” That evening, the Cold Springs High School FFA string band entertained guests. The next day, attendees toured some of the best agricultural sites in southwest Alabama and were encouraged to snap photos during the tours and post them to social media with #AlfaFarmers16. Each tour’s best photo entrant won a Yeti tumbler. This was Connie Fuller’s first Commodity Conference, and she said the value of networking with other, more experienced farmers was invaluable, as was learning about agriculture and natural resources outside her Jefferson County farm. “I enjoyed learning about how various Alabama institutions pool their resources to protect our watersheds,” said Fuller, whose tour cruised the Five Rivers Delta. “I want to bring back information to north Alabama about how our actions affect watersheds all the way to the coast.” Saturday, July 30, was jampacked with educational sessions about the upcoming Farm Bill, forage production, poultry practices and the industrial hemp market, to name a few. Winners in Tables-

Farm Family contests. A drone was also awarded to Jerry Byrd of Dale County, who entered a drawing after signing up with Farm Bureau Bank. But the conference wasn’t just about its attendees. Members gave back to the local community through the Stuff The Silo fundraiser benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile. Members donated $6,448, nearly a threemonth stay for a family whose child is battling life-threatening illness. Christian entertainer Jason Crabb closed the conference. More photos can be found on the Federation’s Facebook and Flickr pages. n FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Federation Contests Promote Southern Style And Creativity By Debra Davis

outhern style and creativity were on display at the Mobile Convention Center during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s 44th annual Commodity Producers Conference July 28-31. The conference included contests sponsored by the Federation Women’s Leadership Committee and featured quilting, tablescapes and table runners. Competition entries were on display at the committee’s luncheon Saturday. “These contests are a great way to display our state’s history of handmade crafts and Southern hospitality,” said Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Ramsey. “Our organization has some of the most talented people I know, and these events also help promote forestry and farm products that many of them grow on their farms.” Ruby Nuss of St. Clair County won first place in the HandStitched Quilt Contest. Melanie Stokley of Washington County placed second, and Cheryl Bagents of Crenshaw County won third. Melanie Harville of St. Clair County won first place in the Machine-Stitched Quilt Contest. Mary Burroughs of Tuscaloosa County was second, and Tippi Healea of Randolph County won third. Anne Yancey Barrett of DeKalb County won first place in the Baby Quilts category. Joette Williams of Chambers County was second, and Loretta Morgan of St. Clair County FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Above: First-place winners in the Women’s Leadership Division contests are, front row from left, Baby Quilts, Anne Yancey Barrett of DeKalb County; Hand-Stitched Quilts, Ruby Nuss of St. Clair County; Tablescapes, Nyla Nealy of Choctaw County; and Table Runners, Elizabeth Usery of Geneva County. Back row, Machine-Stitched Quilts, Melanie Harville of St. Clair County; and Youth Table Runners, Victoria Balakitsis of Tuscaloosa County. Left photo: Lee County’s Carole Clements, center, won the People’s Choice Award in the Tablescapes Contest. She is congratulated by Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell and Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Ramsey.

won third. Nyla Nealy of Choctaw County won first place in the Tablescapes Contest. The contest features place settings that focus on an Alabama commodity. Nealy’s winning entry featured Alabama’s Greenhouse, Nursery and Sod industry. Second place went to Marcy Jernigan of Geneva County, and Lucy Lawrence of Tallapoosa County placed third. First place in Table Runners went to Elizabeth Usery of Geneva County. Second-place winner was Ann Whatley of Lee County, and third was Rhonda Hughes of Jefferson County. 5

Youth Table Runners winner was Tuscaloosa County’s Victoria Balakitsis, and second place went to Abigail Crosby of Lamar County. First-place winners in each category received $150, while second and third place won $100 and $75 respectively. For the first time ever, the luncheon included the People’s Choice Award in the Tablescapes Contest. Luncheon participants chose Carole Clements’s wildlife theme as the winner. She is from Lee County. Photos of the winning entries are posted to the Federation’s Facebook page. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Future-Focused Young Farmers Flourish At Annual Conference By Marlee Moore

he Alabama Farmers Federation’s Young Farmers proved the future of agriculture is in good hands as they competed in statewide events at the 44th Commodity Producers Conference in Mobile July 30. In the Port City, the Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) was announced, and young farmers competed in the Excellence In Agriculture and Discussion Meet contests. This year’s OYFF is Madison County’s Stewart and Kasey McGill and daughters Allie, 4, Reece, 2, and Peyton, 3 months. The McGills grow cotton, corn and soybeans and help manage Kasey’s family’s agritourism operation, Cotton Pickin’ Pumpkins, a division of Tate Farms in Meridianville. The McGills won a prize package worth more than $60,000, including a new General Motors pickup truck from Alfa Insurance, a John Deere 825i Gator from Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit and use of a John Deere tractor by John Deere and local John Deere dealers. OYFF runners-up were Lance and Stephanie Miller of Snead in Blount County and their children Reed, 4, and Jade, 1; and John and Hannah Bevel of Albertville in Marshall County and their daughter Madalyn, 3. The runners-up received $500 courtesy of Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit. The Federation presented each finalist a Big Green Egg cooker. OYFF contestants must receive more than 50 percent of their income from production agriculture. Finalists were announced at the Young Farmers Conference in February. Ben and Heather Maples of Elkmont in Limestone County beat out 10 competitors in the Excellence in Agriculture contest. As

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

From left are Alabama Farmers Federation's Excellence In Ag contest winners Ben and Heather Maples of Limestone County, Federation President Jimmy Parnell and Outstanding Young Farm Family Kasey and Stewart McGill of Madison County with their daughters Allie, 4, Reece, 2, and Peyton, 3 months. As winners in the state contest, the Maples and McGills will represent Alabama at the American Farm Bureau Federation's annual meeting next January in Phoenix, Arizona.

the winner, the Maples will receive a John Deere zero-turn mower sponsored by Dow AgroSciences and a computer package from CCS/ Valcom Wireless. Excellence In Agriculture contestants are young people ages 18-35 who are actively engaged in agriculture but don't earn a majority of their income from production agriculture. The competition included an application, 15-minute presentation and 10-minute question-and-answer session. Excellence in Agriculture first runners-up were Brandon and Angela Sewell of Southside in Etowah County, and second runner-up was Andrew Brock of Douglas in Marshall County. Four finalists were named in the Federation’s Discussion Meet contest, designed to simulate a committee meeting where active participation is expected. Eighteen 6

contestants discussed pre-selected agricultural topics through several rounds of competition. Finalists are Lauren Cline of Opelika in Lee County, Jerry Allen Newby of Athens in Limestone County, Hunter McBrayer of Boaz in Marshall County and Sidney Phelps of Dadeville in Tallapoosa County. Discussion Meet finalists will compete in December at the Federation’s annual meeting in Montgomery for the top prize of a 4-wheeler sponsored by First South Farm Credit. Excellence in Agriculture runners-up and Discussion Meet finalists also received Big Green Egg cookers from the Federation. Young Farmers contest winners will represent Alabama at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual meeting and contests in January in Phoenix, Arizona. n FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Relationships That Pay Dividends.

“We owe much of our success at Ziebach & Webb Timber Co. to Alabama Ag Credit. Over the years, their professional staff has made it easy to finance land and timber.” — Elmo Ziebach, Monroe County

Elmo Ziebach with his grandson, Chase Luker, and son, Douglas Ziebach.

FINANCING LAND & FARMS

Land Purchasing and Reﬁnancing Serving north Alabama

AlabamaFarmCredit.com 877-681-6087

New and Used Equipment Purchases Livestock Financing Varying Terms and Rates

Serving south Alabama

AlabamaAgCredit.com 800-579-5471

Call Alabama Farm Credit or Alabama Ag Credit to learn how low rates and relationship lending help farmers harvest savings that pay dividends.

New Farming Feeds Alabama Commercials Filmed Throughout State

bout 15 Alabama farmers made their film debut in July as production wrapped on new Farming Feeds Alabama™ television commercials and videos. The Alabama Farmers Federation launched the award-winning campaign in 1998 to connect Alabama families to the men and women who grow their food and fiber. Federation Communications Director Jeff Helms said the campaign is being revived thanks to grants from four commodity checkoff programs and the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation. “The new commercials would not be possible without generous gifts from the Alabama catfish; peanut; soybean; and wheat and feed grains checkoff programs, as well as sales of Farming Feeds Alabama license plates,” Helms said. Filming was done at five farms in Madison, Limestone, Cullman and Greene counties and featured members of the state commodity committees supporting the project. The footage will yield two 30-second television commercials, a testimonial video about Alabama agriculture and individual videos highlighting the four commodity checkoffs. “The commercials give us, as farmers, a platform to tell our story to the public,” said Talladega County farmer Jeremy Wilson, a member of the State Soybean Committee. “It is part of our duty as soybean producers to promote agriculture, and I believe Farming Feeds Alabama is a great way of accomplishing this.” Cherokee County farmer Nick McMichen, a member of the State Wheat & Feed Grains Committee, also was interviewed for the videos. “The average citizen has no clue about agriculture in Alabama,” McMichen said. “We, as farmers, are our own best advocate, and it w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Clockwise from top: Lauderdale County farmer James Walker is interviewed for a testimonial video; the camera catches a silhouette of Limestone County farmer Jessie Hobbs visiting with Pickens County farmer Mike Dee; and Talladega County farmer Jeremy Wilson stars in a scene about faith from high atop a grain bin.

is of the utmost importance that we get our message out. Wheat and feed grains are an integral part of agriculture in Alabama, and we need to do our part in getting that message to the public.” The Federation partnered with Hampton-Legg and Sunspot Pictures of Birmingham for the production. “Over the last five years, we have developed a great relationship with the best crew in Alabama while filming Alfa Insurance commercials,” Helms said. “They believe in the Federation’s mission 8

and leveraged their resources to help us get Farming Feeds Alabama back on the air.” Wilson said his experience in front of the camera was memorable. “The production was very professional,” Wilson said. “They wanted it to be the farmers’ story and not the production crew’s story, which was important to everyone involved.” The Alfa Insurance foundation has agreed to help air the commercials statewide early next year. Follow the Federation on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter for a sneak peek this fall. n FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

DRversatrailer.com

SIMPLER STRONGER FASTER

All-New DR® CHIPPERS

NEW

Models

Larger Capacity, Lower Prices!

Now Starting at

$599

...than any Hydraulic Log Splitter! LOWEST PRICES EVER!

DR® RAPIDFIRE™ FLYWHEEL LOG SPLITTER

SO FAST it is the world’s fastest splitter. Splits anything a hydraulic splitter will — but in one-sixth the time! DRlogsplitters.com

The EASY DR® Way to TRIM and MOW!

• Chip big branches up to 5.75" thick! Starting • Self-feeding models available. at just No more force-feeding! 99 $ • Powerful engines spin big PTO fly-wheels (up to 62 lbs.), MODELS TOO! generating massive chipping force! • Models that shred yard and garden waste as well as CHIP branches.

799

LOWEST PRICE EVER on DR® Leaf Vacuums!

DRchipper.com

SO STRONG its cast iron flywheel and hardened steel components show almost no wear after splitting hundreds of cords.

1-SECOND!

6X FASTER than hydraulic splitters!

SO SIMPLE it’s practically maintenance free. There are no hydraulic pumps, valves, pistons, hoses or fluids to leak or replace — EVER.

NEW and IMPROVED DR® Field and Brush Mowers

Faster…Easier... Lower-Priced!

NEW LOW PRICE!

Mow ﬁelds, brush, even saplings with neverbefore ease!

TOW-BEHIND MODELS TOO!

Rated #1 in Vacuum Power Easy, 1-Hand Dumping Stores Flat in Minutes

NEW LOW PRICES reduced up to $500!

1 YEAR EASY FREE SHIPPING TRIAL FINANCING SOME LIMITATIONS APPLY. CALL OR GO ONLINE FOR DETAILS.

1 299

DRleafvac.com

Plus— TowBehind Models Starting at just

1,39999

DRﬁeldbrush.com

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

TOLL FREE

888-212-8588

The NEW DR Leaf Vacuum NEW is designed from the top down to make yard cleanup Models easier, faster, and more Starting at thorough than ever before. $ 99 , And for a limited time we are offering them at incredible low introductory prices!

NEW POWER STEERING for easier handling!

DRtrimmers.com

NEW WIDE CUT MODELS for faster mowing!

Converts to a Utility Trailer

The DR TRIMMER MOWER gives you 5X the power and NONE of the backstrain of handheld trimmers! • Trims and mows thick grass and weeds without bogging down — the ONLY trimmer guaranteed not to wrap! • Rolls light as a feather on big, easy-rolling wheels! • Thickest, longest-lasting cutting cord (up to 225 mil) takes seconds to change. ®

The Old Barn Restaurant Wins Bama’s Best Catfish Restaurant The Old Barn Restaurant in Goshen won the inaugural Best Alabama Catfish Restaurant Contest. From left are judges Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries Commissioner John McMillan and WSFATV anchor Judd Davis of Montgomery, restaurant owner Amy Chandler, judge Jim Allen of Alabama Farmers Cooperative and Alabama Catfish Producers Chairman Will Pearce.

By Debra Davis

my Chandler, owner of The Old Barn Restaurant in Goshen, has a secret recipe for her Southern-style catfish. That special blend of seasoning and breading earned her high marks from judges who dubbed her establishment Bama’s Best Catfish Restaurant. In the inaugural contest sponsored by Alabama Catfish Producers, judges oohed and ahhed at the broiled and blackened catfish Chandler served. But it was her fried catfish filets that nudged her into first place, said judges who visited the restaurant in early August. “August was National Catfish Month, and there was no better way to celebrate than announcing Bama’s Best Catfish Restaurant,” said Dallas County catfish farmer

Will Pearce, Alabama Catfish Producers chairman who accompanied the judges. “We appreciate Amy and all the restaurant owners across the state who select U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish for their customers.” The Old Barn Restaurant was among four finalists chosen from nearly 150 customer nominations. Other finalists received an engraved plaque from the Alabama Catfish Producers. They were David’s Catfish House in Andalusia, owned by Bill Spurlin; The Green Leaf Grill of Mentone, owned by Jimmy Rogers; and Pat’s Country Cuisine in Centre, owned by Pat and Ron Jackson. Chandler, 38, and her husband Scottie opened the restaurant 11 years ago intending it to be a hunting lodge. After installing a commercial kitchen in what was once an old barn, they decided to try the restaurant business. They’ve enjoyed success in other contests, too. Last year, The Old Barn Restaurant won Alabama’s Best Steak Restaurant. “We are so honored and excited to win,” said Amy, whose enthusiasm and attention to detail didn’t go Pat's Country Cuisine of Centre is owned by Ron and Pat Jackson. Pat's was among four finalists in the statewide contest.

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

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Left, David's Catfish House in Andalusia, owned by Bill Spurlin, was among four finalists selected from nearly 150 nominations in Bama's Best Catfish Restaurant Contest. Right, Jimmy Rogers, owner of The Green Leaf Grill in Mentone, stands outside his restaurant, which also was a finalist.

unnoticed by the judges. “We put our heart and soul into everything we do. We won’t serve anything that isn’t the very best we can make it.” The only requirement for a restaurant’s nomination in the contest was that it serves U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish. Judges for the event were Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries John McMillan; WSFA-TV news anchor Judd Davis; and Alabama Farmers Cooperative’s Jim Allen. “Judges taste-tasted catfish at the top four restaurants, and they had a hard decision,” Pearce said. “We want all of the restaurant owners in Alabama who serve what we grow to know we appreciate them.” As the winner, The Old Barn Restaurant received a championship plaque and $250. Amy told judges serving anything other

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

than U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish was never an option. “We tried catfish from several different suppliers when we first opened, but we chose Kelley Foods of Alabama because its fish tasted the best,” Amy said. “There was never any doubt our catfish had to be grown in America. There’s a difference in how it tastes, and we know we’re serving our customers a food that’s safe.” The Alabama Catfish Producers is a division of the Alabama Farmers Federation. Alabama farmers raise more than 100 million pounds of catfish per year with an annual economic impact of over $158 million to the state. For catfish recipes and more about America’s catfish industry, visit USCatfish. com. n The Old Barn Restaurant in Goshen features classic Southern charm and is home to Alabama's best catfish.

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

h t n o yM e n o H

er Is b m te Sep

l a n o i Nat

All The Buzz Martin Makes Commitment To Helping Bees By Rebecca Oliver

ith September kicking off National Bee and Honey Month, Terry Martin is all abuzz on bees as a third-generation bee and honey producer in Tallapoosa County. “Bees are magnificent creatures,” said Martin, who lives in Alexander City. “For the love of nature and our ecosystem, I wish every household had a hive of bees.” Martin, a Tallapoosa County Farmers Federation board member, has aided in the revitalization of the Tallapoosa River Beekeeping Association. He also serves on the Federation's State Bee and Honey Producers Committee. An advocate for youth education on the importance of bees, Martin helped develop a presentation to educate fourth- and fifth-grade students at Dadeville Elementary about the life cycle of bees. Looking through a glass frame, students observe bees as they develop from larva to adult. The presentation will be replicated in Alexander City Schools this year. “My biggest goal is to educate people,” Martin said. “Honeybees w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Tallapoosa County beekeeper Terry Martin is an advocate for youth education about the importance of honeybees. He helped develop a program for local schools to study pollinators.

are the No. 1 pollinator, and we need to educate the next generation on their importance.” Alabama Bee and Honey Commodity Director Mac Higginbotham said bee and honey production has faced adversity in recent years, but has a bright future. “Education is probably the No. 1 factor when it comes to having a successful hive,” Higginbotham said. “Honeybees are extremely unique. They face multiple stressors, and the best way to manage them is to have a good understanding of what the hive is telling you.” Martin agreed bee and honey production can be challenging. “Bees have a lot stacked against them,” Martin said. “Something as small as a moth can devastate a hive, and you always have to be prepared for diseases.” Beekeepers are constantly learning something new about bees. Utilizing and applying this information greatly influences the success of a hive, said Higginbotham. “The educational opportunities are endless. By learning more, you 12

can save yourself and your hive a lot of stress,” Higginbotham said. Reading books and staying up-to-date on the latest technology is an essential part of what Martin does to produce honey he gives to friends, donates to local fundraisers and sells at a few local farmers markets. One of Martin’s highly successful hives produced over 600 pounds of honey in six years. Honey can be found in various products from food to hand soaps. Its health benefits range from allergy relief to cold remedies. “What goes on in the hive that allows bees to do the amazing things they do? God only really knows,” Martin said. n FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

o ct N tra e n Fe Co No ly th on

Breakthrough technology converts phone calls to captions.

New amplified phone lets you hear AND see the conversation. The Captioning Telephone converts phone conversations to easy-to-read captions for individuals with hearing loss.

A simple idea… made possible with sophisticated technology. If you have trouble understanding a call, the Captioning Telephone can change your life. During a phone call the words spoken to you appear on the phone’s screen – similar to closed captioning on TV. So when you make or receive a call, the words spoken to you are not only amplified by the phone, but scroll across the phone so you can listen while reading everything that’s said to you. Each call is routed through a call center, where computer technology – aided by a live representative – generates voice-to-text translations. The captioning is real-time, accurate and readable. Your conversation is private and the captioning service doesn’t cost you a penny. Captioned Telephone Service (CTS) is regulated and funded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and is designed exclusively for individuals with hearing loss. In order to use CTS

in your home, you must have standard telephone service and high-speed Internet connectivity where the phone will be used. Callers do not need special equipment or a captioning phone in order to speak with you. Finally… a phone you can use again. The Captioning Telephone is also packed with features to help make phone calls easier. The keypad has

SEE what you’ve been missing!

“For years I avoided phone calls because I couldn’t understand the caller… now I don’t miss a thing!” See for yourself with our exclusive home trial. Try the Captioning Telephone in your own home and if you are not completely amazed, simply return it within 60-days for a refund of the product purchase price. It even comes with a 5-year warranty.

Captioning Telephone large, easy to use buttons. You get adjustable volume amplification along with the ability to save captions for review later. It even has an answering machine that provides you with the captions of each message.

Call now for our special introductory price! Call now Toll-Free

1-888-735-3592 Please mention promotion code 104502.

The Captioning Telephone is intended for use by people with hearing loss. In purchasing a Captioning Telephone, you acknowledge that it will be used by someone who cannot hear well over a traditional phone.

81112

Do you get discouraged when you hear your telephone ring? Do you avoid using your phone because hearing difficulties make it hard to understand the person on the other end of the line? For many Americans the telephone conversation – once an important part of everyday life – has become a thing of the past. Because they can’t understand what is said to them on the phone, they’re often cut off from friends, family, doctors and caregivers. Now, thanks to innovative technology there is finally a better way.

pure. american. When you look for the U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish seal, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking out for your family, and for our American farmers. Their pure, freshwater ponds and strict standards ensure U.S. Catfish is the freshest, healthiest fish available. And you can rely on that perfectly mild flavor year-round. Try the recipe for a Po Boy at USCATFISH.COM

2016 Alabama Catfish Farmer of the Year Bubba Drury Hale County

Sprouted Flour Company Flourishes In Fitzpatrick

To Your Health Sprouted Flour, a company located in Bullock County, began in Peggy Sutton's home kitchen where she soaked grain in a Mason jar, dried it and ground it into flour. Photo by Jack Jeffries

By Rebecca Oliver

estled among endless pine trees along U.S. Highway 82 in rural Bullock County, there’s a company changing lifestyles and eating habits for those seeking an alternative to ordinary wheat flour. To Your Health Sprouted Flour (TYHSF) began in Peggy Sutton’s home kitchen 11 years ago before expanding to the factory that produced 1.5 million pounds of sprouted flour last year. Initially, Sutton soaked the grain in Mason jars, dried it, then ground it into flour. With that, Peggy, 58, made her first loaf of sprouted flour bread, and the idea of TYHSF was born. FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Her growing customer list includes top brands like Kashi®, a national producer of granola bars, crackers, cookies and cereals. “Bullock County is where my heart is,” said Sutton, a Bullock County native, who formerly worked for the Columbus, Georgia Chamber of Commerce before returning home in 1988. “The ideal place for this business would be in the middle of the Grain Belt for easy accessibility to the raw grains we use, but being here allowed us to create much-needed jobs.” Growing up on her family’s farm taught Sutton to appreciate quality food and fostered a deep connection to community, she said. As a child, 15

her family raised everything they ate. That, along with a passion for quality food, led Sutton to research health foods. She said she hit the jackpot with sprouted flour, which can be used in breads, grits, crackers, brown rice, lentils and cereals. “What’s most important to me about our product is that it offers a healthy alternative to traditional processed wheat flour,” said Sutton, whose husband Jeff is TYHSF’s chief executive officer. “Sprouted flour has more nutrients than dormant wheat seeds used to make processed flour." At TYHSF, which is located in Fitzpatrick, wheat seeds are soaked in water and placed in a specialw w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

ized sprouting machine. A giant rolling drum aerates the damp seeds, sprouting new growth. The once-dormant seeds germinate in the sprouting process. Sutton said vitamins, minerals and fiber of intact whole grains are released in sprouted flour, creating a healthy product the body easily absorbs. Alabama farmers could benefit from Sutton’s plans for growth. She said she’d like to see a cooperative of Alabama organic wheat farmers who could supply TYHSF with locally grown grains. TYHSF currently buys grain from Washington, Oregon and Canada. “If I can say to a local or regional farmer, ‘I’ll contract with you to buy everything you grow before you even plant,’ they wouldn’t have to worry about who they’re going to sell to,” Sutton said.

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

As a pioneer in the sprouted flour industry, Sutton said demand for her product grew as interest in health and food production escalated. Kashi Senior Brand Manager David Uzzell said Kashi discovered Sutton’s company in 2014 as a supplier for its Organic Promise Sprouted Grains Cereal. “For us, Ms. Peggy is exactly the type of company we want to keep,” Uzzell said. TYHSF significantly impacted Bullock County, where creating one

job has the same impact as 27 jobs in larger cities like Montgomery, Sutton said. TYHSF has 35 employees and is open five days a week. TYHSF products are found in mainstream stores including Publix, Target and Wal-Mart and some local markets. A company expansion is scheduled for completion by 2017 and will create 15-20 new jobs for Bullock County. Bullock County Development Authority’s Dr. Julian Cope called TYHSF an asset to the rural county. “We’re thankful to have been a part of TYHSF’s growth since its beginning in 2006,” Cope said. “TYHSF will be an attraction for more businesses to come here.” For more information on TYHSF, visit healthyflour.com. The site includes available products and recipes. n

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Protection that grows with you.

First

Step

Alfa Life Insurance Corporation

No matter how old children get, they never outgrow your love. With Alfa’s First Step Life™ Insurance, you can provide protection that grows with them. Our affordable coverage can be purchased for children through 14 years of age. Best of all, the permanent, interest sensitive policy can provide security for their steps in life. Ask your local agent today about Alfa’s First Step plan. Spending a few minutes planning now can afford you a lifetime of worry-free assurance.

Alfa Insurance® AlfaInsurance.com

For the best agents in the business. Call Alfa.

Aspire Conference Helps Encourage Youth Leadership By Rebecca Oliver igh school students from 30 Alabama counties strengthened their understanding of agriculture and potential agricultural careers at the first Aspire Youth Leadership Conference at the 4-H Center in Columbiana July 12-14. The Alabama Farmers Federation and other sponsors led the program to develop leadership skills in youth. Aspire was designed to teach students awareness of their strengths through habit-based learning sessions. Workshops were led by conference sponsors, including the Federation, Alabama Council of Cooperatives, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, 4-H, FFA and Alabama Poultry & Egg Association. Abigail Lane of Lowndes County said she was excited to attend the conference. “Aspire will help me decide how I can contribute to and promote agriculture in the future,” said Lane. “I would love to explore the new careers being created with advancements in agriculture.” Michael Morrison of Clay County said he gained a greater sense of self-awareness through Aspire, which will help him pursue a career as an agriscience teacher. “I learned I had more team-building skills than I thought,

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

Above: From left, Brandon Dix of Russell County, Michael Morrison of Clay County and Abigail Lane of Lowndes County attended Aspire Youth Leadership Conference July 12-14 at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana. The Alabama Farmers Federation and other sponsors led the leadership development program.

such as problem-solving and peacekeeping,” said Morrison. “This conference confirmed that agriscience education is the best choice for me.” Federation Young Farmers Director Jennifer Himburg said Aspire cultivates the next generation of agricultural leaders. “The students attending this conference are within reach of high school graduation and must begin to decide what they will do after graduation,” Himburg said. “It’s 18

important that they understand what agriculture has to offer. No matter what field they choose, this conference will equip them with valuable skills they can use throughout their lives.” Attendees were between 15 and 17 years old and were selected by a panel of judges from sponsoring organizations. Aspire replaced the Federation’s Youth Leadership Conference. n

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

County Federations Annual Meetings COUNTY

DATE

TIME

BUTLER

Monday, Sept. 19

CONECUH

Tuesday, Sept. 13

BUILDING

ADDRESS

CITY

6:00 PM Pioneer Electric Building

300 Herbert St.

Greenville

6:00 PM David Burt Building

102 Liberty St.

Evergreen

CRENSHAW Thursday, Sept. 8

6:30 PM E.L. Turner Park

93 Ball Park Rd

Luverne

DALLAS

Tuesday, Sept. 13

6:00 PM Alfa Service Center

403 Broad St.

Selma

GREENE

Tuesday, Sept. 13

6:30 PM Alfa Service Center

101 Boligee St.

Eutaw

LOWNDES

Monday, Sept. 12

6:30 PM Hayneville Baptist Church 820 State Hwy. 21 N. Hayneville

MARENGO

Tuesday, Sept. 20

6:30 PM Alfa Service Center

206 Shiloh St.

Linden

The Ultimate Offroad 440 lb. Trailer! LIFTING

Power loading!

CAPACITY

HAULS up to 2000 lbs.!

• Has a swinging boom for loading and unloading rocks, logs, balled trees, etc. with a back-saving winch. • Empties cleanly every time, thanks to steep, boom-assisted dump angle. • Converts to a stake bed trailer (in less than 5 minutes!) for harvesting trees and hauling long loads. • Galvanized bed and frame tows easily behind ATVs, compact tractors and lawn tractors. • Pivoting, tandem wheels “walk” over obstacles.

FREE SHIPPING

The DR® VERSATRAILER™ is the ONLY trailer for offroad vehicles that—

1 YEAR TRIAL

SOME LIMITATIONS APPLY

Call for FREE DVD and Catalog! TOLL-FREE

888-212-8588 DRversatrailer.com

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

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

Federation Members Save Money At Local Businesses

labama Farmers Federation members can now save at hundreds of local businesses throughout the state simply by showing their membership card. “With the new local member benefits program, there are savings on everything from restaurants and oil changes to haircuts and shopping,” said the Federation’s Paul Brown. “This program not only adds value to your membership, but it also helps hometown, Alabama businesses.” About 800 businesses already offer discounts through the program, and more are signing up daily. Brown, the Federation’s member benefits director, said the new program helps fulfill the organization’s mission of service. “With offices in all 67 Alabama counties and almost 230 service centers statewide, the Federation and Alfa Insurance are part of the communities they serve,” Brown added. “We do not make money on this program. It’s simply a goodwill gesture to help members save money while supporting local businesses.” Participating businesses are listed free in printed and online member benefits directories. Members can view local benefits by selecting their county in the top-right corner of AlfaFarmers. org. While savings vary by business, a 10-percent or greater discount is typical. Brown said members can look for window clings, table tents and stickers featuring the red and black Alfa FarmersSM logo where they shop. Members simply present their membership cards to take advantage of the discounts. Local businesses interested in joining the program can apply at any Alfa Insurance office. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

LOOK FOR

SHOW MEMBER

PRESIDENT

John Smith Membership Number: 071910 Alabama Farmers Federation Void After: 12/21/16

COUNTY PRESIDENT

A L A B A M A FA R M E R S F E D E R AT I O N

SAVE Introducing the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Local Benefits Program. For a complete list of member benefits visit AlfaFarmers.org/benefits. 20

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

B LL Bu ig -NE tt ge W on r s

s o N act r nt Co

“My friends all hate their cell phones… I love mine!” FREE Car Charg er Here’s why.

Say good-bye to everything you hate about cell phones. Say hello to the ALL-NEW Jitterbug Flip. “Cell phones have gotten so small, I can barely dial mine.” Not the new Jitterbug® Flip. It features a larger keypad for easier dialing. It even has a larger display so you can actually see it. “I had to get my son to program it.” Your Jitterbug Flip set-up process is simple. We’ll even program it with your favorite numbers. “I tried my sister’s cell phone… I couldn’t hear it.” The Jitterbug Flip is designed with a powerful speaker and is hearing aid compatible. Plus, there’s an adjustable volume control.

Monthly Plan

$14.99/mo

$19.99/mo

Monthly Minutes

200

600

Operator Assistance

24/7

Long Distance Calls

No add’l charge

Voice Dial

FREE

Nationwide Coverage

YES

30 days

Friendly Return Policy1

More minute plans available. Ask your Jitterbug expert for details.

“I’d like a cell phone to use in an emergency, but I don’t want a high monthly bill.” The Jitterbug Flip has a plan to fit your needs… and your budget.

“I don’t need stock quotes, Internet sites or games on my phone. I just want to talk with my family and friends.” Life is complicated enough… The Jitterbug Flip is simple. “What if I don’t remember a number?” Friendly, helpful Operators are available 24 hours a day and will even greet you by name when you call.

5Star Enabled

12:45P Mon Aug 29

“Many phones have features that are rarely needed and hard to use!” The Jitterbug Flip contains easy-to-use features that are meaningful to you. A newly designed built-in camera makes it easy and fun for you to capture and share your favorite memories. And a new flashlight with a built-in magnifier helps you see in dimly lit areas, the Jitterbug Flip has all the features you need. Enough talk. Isn’t it time you found out more about the cell phone that’s changing all the rules? Call now, Jitterbug product experts are standing by.

“My cell phone company wants to lock me in a two-year contract!” Not with the Jitterbug Flip. There are no contracts to sign and no penalty if you discontinue your service. Available in Red and Graphite.

Order now and receive a FREE Car Charger for your Jitterbug Flip – a $25 value. Call now!

NEW Jitterbug Flip Cell Phone Call toll-free to get your Jitterbug Flip. Please mention promotional code 104503.

1-866-383-0020

www.jitterbugdirect.com 47665

We proudly accept the following credit cards:

IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: Jitterbug is owned by GreatCall, Inc. Your invoices will come from GreatCall. Plans and Services require purchase of a Jitterbug phone and a one-time setup fee of $35. Monthly fees do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges and are subject to change. Coverage is not available everywhere. 5Star or 9-1-1 calls can only be made when cellular service is available. 1We will refund the full price of the Jitterbug phone and the activation fee (or setup fee) if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition. We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage. If you have more than 30 minutes of usage, a per minute charge of 35 cents will be deducted from your refund for each minute over 30 minutes. You will be charged a $10 restocking fee. The shipping charges are not refundable. There are no additional fees to call GreatCall’s U.S.-based customer service. However, for calls to a GreatCall Operator in which a service is completed, you will be charged 99 cents per call, and minutes will be deducted from your monthly rate plan balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected by the Operator. Jitterbug and GreatCall are registered trademarks of GreatCall, Inc. ©2016 GreatCall, Inc. ©2016 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

Live

at the Alabama Farmers Federation 95th Annual Meeting Sunday, December 4,at 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre 6:30 p.m. Doors Open

SARA EVANS

At Christmas

Tickets On Sale Now! Ticket Prices: $65, $55, $45, $35 (plus service charge) Call MPAC Box Office, 334-481-5100, M-F, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. or Ticketmaster.com 1-800-745-3000 Brought to you by

Federation Organization Department Welcomes New Hires By Marlee Moore he Alabama Farmers Federation Department of Organization recently welcomed two Auburn University (AU) graduates as area organization directors. Barrett Gilbert serves as Area 1 director, working with county Federations in Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Gilbert Limestone, Madison and Morgan counties. Wiley Bailey joins the staff as Area 2 organization director and works with Federations in Cullman, Fayette, Lamar, Marion, Walker and Winston counties. Gilbert was raised around his family’s Athens cattle business and

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

said he is excited to grow his relationships with area farmers. “Agriculture has always been part of my life, whether directly or indirectly,” said Gilbert, 27. “Being from Limestone County helps me understand and relate to farmers in my area on a higher level.” Gilbert graduated in agricultural business and economics in 2012 and joins the Federation after four years at Trigreen Equipment. A Sand Rock native, Bailey joins the Federation following 18 months as a leadership and motivational speaker for workshops around the country. “Farmers and ranchers are in the trenches every day working hard to produce our food and fiber,” said Bailey, 24. “I look forward to meeting my area farmers and understanding their needs and interests.” Federation Organization Direc22

tor Mike Tidwell said he is excited about the depth of agricultural knowledge Bailey and Gilbert bring to the department. “These men truly understand our goal here at the Federation,” said Tidwell. “They were raised around agriculture and realize how important it is to listen to farmers and be a positive Bailey voice for agriculture.” Gilbert and his wife, Hannah, live in Athens, where Hannah is a doctor of occupational therapy. Bailey graduated in agricultural communications in 2015. He and his wife, Sara, plan to reside in Cullman. n FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Amazing price breakthrough!

ADVANCED HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY Under $200 How can a hearing aid that costs less than $200

be every bit as good as one that sells for $2,000 or more? Although tremendous strides have been made in advanced hearing aid technology, those cost reductions have not passed on to youUntil Now. An innovative board certiﬁed Chicago ENT doctor lowered hearing aid costs signiﬁcantly. Since Medicare and most private insurance do not cover hearing aids, ENT physician Dr. Cherukuri made it his personal goal to come up with a game-changing solution that customers could actually afford. He evaluated other hearing aids and concluded that the high prices were a direct result of layers of middlemen, heavy mark-ups and expensive unnecessary features. The result is the -MDHearingAid PRO®, with the same kind of advanced hearing aid technology incorporated into hearing aids that cost thousands more at a small fraction of the price.

appointments. You can even access a hearing specialist conveniently-online or by phone—even after sale. No other company provides such extensive support. Now that you know, why pay more?

Take Advantage of Our 45-Day Risk-Free Home Trial!

Hearing is believing and we invite you to try this nearly invisible hearing aid with no annoying whistling or background noise for yourself. If you are not completely satisﬁed, simply return it within Over 75,000 satisﬁed PRO customers that time period for a 100% refund of your purchase price. agree: high quality FDA-registered hearing aids don’t have to cost a fortune. The fact is, you don’t need to pay high prices for a medical-grade hearing aid. MDHearingAid PRO® gives you a sophisticated highperformance hearing aid that works right out of the box with no time-consuming “adjustment”

Doctors and patients agree: “BEST QUALITY SOUND” “LOWEST AFFORDABLE PRICE” “I have been wearing hearing aids for over 25 years and these are the best behind-theear aids I have tried. Their sound quality rivals that of my $3,500 custom pair of Phonak®Xtra digital ITE” ---Gerald L. “I have a $2,000 ReSound® Live hearing aid in my left ear and the MDHearingAid PRO® in the right ear. I am not able to notice a signiﬁcant diﬀerence in sound quality between the two hearing aids” ---Dr. May, ENT Physician “They work so great, my mother says she hasn’t heard this well in years, even with her $2,000 digital! It was so great to see the joy on her face. She is 90 years young again.”---Al P.

Call Today to Receive A Year Supply of FREE Batteries.

NEARLY INVISIBLE

BATTERIES INCLUDED! READY TO USE RIGHT OUT OF THE BOX!

MDHearingAid.com

Plus FREE Shipping.

800-617-5807 BUY A PAIR AND SAVE $40 Use Oﬀer Code: RATING

CW29

PROUDLY ASSEMBLED IN THE FROM DOMESTIC & IMPORTED COMPONENTS

G R A I N S 0f T R U T H Alabama Wheat and Feed Grain Farmers grow food, fuel and freedom. Their harvest helps feed Alabamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s multi-million-dollar livestock, catfish and poultry industries while reducing Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dependence on foreign countries for energy and food. By combining their strength with farmers of other commodities, feed grain growers are fueling the economic growth of Alabama communities.

WHEAT & FEED GRAIN PRODUCERS

Formula For Success Alabama Inventor Transforms Equine Nutrition Industry By Marlee Moore

orses are to 85-year-old Frank Gravlee as Scottish accents are to Sean Connery — just part of life. Gravlee, — a dead ringer for Connery, from the white, meticulously trimmed beard to the distinguished nose and stature — was raised on a small Fayette County farm. His early days on horseback led “Dr. Frank,” as employees call him, to a revolutionary invention for the equine industry. In 1983, his Farrier’s Formula, the first research-based nutrition supplement for horses, hit the market. An estimated 50,000 horses now consume the supplement daily. “Horses are the ideal specimen for nutrition experiments,” said Gravlee, a veterinarian who settled in Florence after graduating from Auburn University in 1956. A decade later, he headed to Massachusetts Institute of Technology to pursue a master’s degree in nutritional metabolism and pathol-

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

ogy. He spent seven years researching nutrition in Birmingham before headed back to north Alabama. Historically, hooves had been treated externally, but Gravlee’s years of research triggered an idea. Why not protect a horse’s hooves from the inside out? And so Farrier’s Formula, a pelleted feed supplement, was invented at Gravlee Animal Hospital in downtown Florence. The supplement originally was mixed using a canoe paddle in galvanized tubs. That evolved into Life Data Labs, Inc., which makes 500,000 pounds of product monthly, 500 times the production 30 years ago. The supplement’s blend of nutrients allows horses to build strong connective tissue, which provides healthy hoof structure and growth. Farrier’s Formula also promotes a glossier coat and stronger joints and ligament connective tissue, Gravlee said. “I can’t tell you how many calls we got asking, ‘How do I break these pellets down to rub on the hoof?’” he said, sifting through the 25

Dr. Frank Gravlee spent a lifetime developing research-based horse nutritional supplements used by equine enthusiasts around the world.

pelleted mixture that horses are eager to eat. Life Data Labs moved to its current location outside Cherokee, Alabama in 1986, and today, the 15-employee plant is fully automated with room to grow. “Proper nutrition is what helps a horse,” said Phil Oliver, the plant operations manager who has helped Gravlee since the mid-1980s. “Dr. Frank created something out of his love and desire to help horses.” To sell the breakthrough product, Gravlee went straight to the farrier, another unprecedented move. “Life Data Labs was one of the first manufacturers to give farriers the opportunity to be dealers,” said Gravlee. “We made farriers part of the business aspect of the industry.” He even named Farrier’s Formula, which was originally called Hoof and Hair, after the men responsible for the product’s success. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

An estimated 50,000 horses worldwide consume products made at Dr. Frank Gravlee’s Life Data Labs in Cherokee, Alabama.

Ron Yates, a 63-year-old farrier from Clanton, has fiercely promoted Farrier’s Formula for 20 out of his 44 years as a farrier. “I tried some other products, but nothing compares to Farrier’s Formula,” said Yates. “The hoof growth is better, and the amount you feed is less.” Yates has never met Gravlee, but said he’d go to bat for Farrier’s Formula any day. “I never recommend anything else,” Yates said. Farrier’s Formula isn’t just farrier-approved. It’s scientifically proven, too. In 1990, the University of Edinburgh’s Dr. Sue Kempson published independent results proving Farrier’s Formula improved horses’ connective tissue strength. Although one-third of Life Data Labs’ products are sold internationally, all products are still researched, produced, packaged and distributed out of Cherokee. Because of its export success, Life Data Labs was awarded the Governor’s Trade Excellence Award in March 2016. “We’ve had people from Tuscumbia go to Europe and find out about Farrier’s Formula,” said Gravlee.

“We don’t know how many thoroughbred winners are on Farrier’s Formula,” said Linda Gravlee, Life Data Labs’ CEO and Gravlee’s wife. “The trainers don’t give away their secrets.” Over the years, the Gravlees turned down multiple buyout offers, adding they’ve never been tempted to hang up their spurs. “You don’t have to be big to be good,” said Gravlee. “I’m almost to the point where I think you have to be small to be good.” Since Farrier’s Formula’s debut, Life Data Labs has branched out with products including Barn

Bag, a forage balancer; Compose, a horse-calming supplement; Life Data Hoof Clay, an antimicrobial clay; and Breeder’s Formula, a canine nutrient supplement. “I learn something from my father every day,” said Dr. Scott Gravlee, who took over the veterinary practice in 1984 so his father could focus on research. Scott joined Life Data Labs full time in 2004 and tackles new research issues like metabolic and blood glucose problems. While Life Data Labs, Inc. is leagues away from its humble start selling Farrier’s Formula in used pickle jars, one thing remains the same. “Farriers are still our No. 1 salesmen,” said Gravlee, who also supports a program helping injured farriers. Gravlee has achieved worldwide recognition, but not always for Farrier’s Formula. “At a conference in Switzerland several years ago, tourists confused Frank with Sean Connery,” Linda said with a laugh. “They wouldn’t believe it wasn’t him!” For more information visit LifeDataLabs.com. n

Veteran farrier Ron Yates of Clanton has recommended Farrier’s Formula, created by Dr. Frank Gravlee, for more than 20 years. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Sepgistratio n Alabama TREASURE Forest Association temb Deadli er 1 ne Conference and Tour â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Oct.13-15, 2016 3

Wind Creek Casino and Hotel, Atmore, Alabama Agenda A

T FA

Thursday, Oct. 13 2 p.m. 6 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 14 10 a.m.

11:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. 1 p.m.

4:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 6:30 p.m.

9 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 15 7:45 a.m. 8 a.m. 9 a.m. Noon

Register online at TREASUREForest.org or mail payment and this registration form to: ATFA c/o William Green P.O. Box 11000 Montgomery, AL 36191

Optional Tour: Poarch Creek Reservation Dinner on your own Welcome to Poarch Creek Reservation Billy Smith & Tribal Elders Tribal Dancers Keynote Speaker Silent Auction Opens ATFA Luncheon and Award Presentations Educational Sessions: Pass It On by Joel Glover; Managing Mixed Pine and Hardwoods by Jim Jeter; Quality Deer Management Association and Game Check by Joe Hamilton and Chuck Sykes; Southern Herbalist Darryl Patton; Forest Products Economic Outlook by Eric Gee; Quail Management by Claude Jenkins. Adjourn Reception ATFA Banquet & Auction Keynote Speaker Close of Silent Auction Live Auction Adjourn Continental Breakfast Prayer Breakfast Tour Magnolia Branch Wildlife Preserve and TREASURE Forest Adjourn

Registration Form Name: ________________________________________ County: _________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________________ Email: ___________________________________ Please list all attendees to ensure adequate food and beverages. If attendees are children, please list their ages. Number attending: __________ Attendee names: _____________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ Payment ATFA Member and Family $75 x _____ = $ _________ Non-ATFA Member $100 x ____ = $ _________ Children (ages 5-15) $38 x _____ = $ _________

R E G I S T E R W I T H T H I S F O R M O R O N L I N E AT W W W. T R E A S U R E F O R E S T. O R G FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

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

Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association Joins Federation By Marlee Moore

Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association Conference

he Alabama Farmers Federation recently welcomed a new member to its agricultural family – the Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA). Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan made the announcement July 28 at the organization’s 44th Commodity Producers Conference in Mobile. “This is an exciting time for both organizations,” Pinyan said. “Fruit and vegetable production is growing rapidly in Alabama, and the impact this partnership will have on our members is immeasurable.” AFVGA began in 1980 and is a nonprofit organization with members in 51 of Alabama’s 67 counties. AFVGA has about 200 members with anticipated growth thanks to its merger with the Federation. Other goals include expanding educational programs for growers, promoting Alabama’s horticulture industry and increasing legislative and regulatory involvement on issues affecting specialty crop farmers. AFVGA President John Aplin said his organization’s knowledge of specialty crops and the Federation’s large membership is mutually beneficial. “Many fruit and vegetable farmers don’t know AFVGA exists,” said Aplin, who farms in Slocomb.

Nov. 17-18

Clanton Conference & Performing Arts Center/Jeff State College More details soon at AFVGA.org

“Partnering with the Federation brings more tangible benefits to our members and will hopefully increase membership in AFVGA.” Federation Horticulture Division Director Mac Higginbotham said the mission of AFVGA parallels that of the Federation — to promote the agricultural industry and support Alabama farmers. “There’s some overlap in membership between the organizations,” said Higginbotham, who became AFVGA executive director following the merger. “Together, we can accomplish more and strengthen the specialty crops industry as a unified voice.” Higginbotham thanked the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES) for its work with AFVGA. He said he wants to strengthen AFVGA’s relationship with ACES and state land grant universities through joint efforts on educational programs, field days and research variety trials. “This partnership can only grow our organizations,” Higginbotham said. “It’s a win-win.” n

Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association President John Aplin, left, sells Slocomb tomatoes at Alfa’s Farmers Market Day. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Tag! You're It!

T S E FOR

Members' Help Needed To Reach Goal

www.TREASUREforest.org

The Alabama TREASURE Forest Association (ATFA) is redesigning its “I’d Rather be in the Woods” license plate. ATFA has to pre-sell 1,000 tags before the state will start producing SURE these great new tags that showcase a TREA Alabam Association Forest Alabama’s forests. This means we need people to commit to putting these tags on 1,000 vehicles. It’s easy to make this commitment. Just go to TREASUREforest. org, and click on the tag image. Fill out the pre-commitment form, and mail it along with $50 to the indicated address. You’ll get two receipts — one from the ATFA and one from the Alabama Department of Revenue (ADR). When you’re notified the tags are available, you can either take the ADR receipt to your county probate office and transfer your current tag to the new ATFA tag (a $4 transfer fee applies), or you can wait until your normal tag renewal month and get a new tag with the ADR receipt. If you already have a “I’d Rather be in the Woods” tag, thank you for your past support. Please take this opportunity to continue supporting our tag by filling out the form and reserving your tag

now. If you’re unable to order a tag by computer or have a question about the tag or this process, call William Green at (334) 612-5235. It’s easy to do, and the money goes to great programs like Classroom in the Forest and other educational efforts to help the public learn about sound forestry. We need your support to make this new design a success. So, where would you rather be? Will you be one of the first people to make this commitment and get your “I’d Rather be in the Woods” tag?

Be sure to visit TREASUREforest.org for membership and other information about the ATFA.

RS!

IN NEW

O GHB NEI

What advice do you have for young farmers?

What’s an ideal day on the farm?

Brenda Glover

What can’t you live without?

How do you spend your off time?

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

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

Auburn University Agriculture Roundup Set For October 1

s thousands of fans flood Auburn University for this year’s homecoming football game Oct. 1, one of the largest tailgate parties on campus will kick off its 37th year serving up Alabama-grown and -processed food at Ag Heritage Park. Co-sponsored by Auburn’s Agricultural Alumni Association and the College of Agriculture, the 2016 Fall Roundup and Taste of Alabama Agriculture will open four hours before the Auburn–Louisiana Monroe football game and wrap up an hour before kickoff. The College of Agriculture’s Amanda Martin said Ag Roundup’s goal is simple — increase public awareness of agriculture while raising funds for College of Agriculture scholarships. Last year’s Roundup drew more than 2,600 football fans and raised a record $28,850 for scholarships.

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

“For 37 years, we’ve welcomed alumni and the community to learn more about the impact food and related industries have on Alabama and beyond,” said Martin, the college’s alumni relations coordinator.

“The scholarship money we raise immeasurably helps students so they, too, can improve the agricultural industry.” The delightful treats served at Ag Roundup range from bacon-

wrapped pork tenderloin and fried catfish to steamed edamame and collard greens. In addition to food, Ag Roundup features children’s activities, informative displays and silent and live auctions. Admission to Ag Roundup is $5 per person, with children 6 and under admitted free. Activities will be set up on the South Donahue Drive side of Ag Heritage Park, with the main entrance located between the Alabama Farmers Pavilion and Ham Wilson Livestock Arena. Corporate sponsors for 2016 include John Deere, SunSouth LLC, TriGreen Equipment and Milo’s Tea Co. For more about Ag Roundup, to donate auction items or to reserve exhibit space, email Amanda Martin at amanda.martin@auburn.edu. n

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Embracing Outdoor Education

Forestry Ties Makes Munford School House Rock

By Mary Johnson

pelunking in a cave, traipsing through a forest and eating with the fishes. Visitors to Munford Elementary School can do all three before even entering a classroom. The thematic school includes a lobby designed to look like a cave, a hallway with life-sized tree replicas and a cafeteria with murals of the Talladega National Forest and a 250-gallon aquarium. The hallways are decorated with more than $250,000 in donated interactive displays. The school sits at the foot of Mount Cheaha, Alabama’s highest point, on a 130-acre campus along with Munford Middle and High schools. While the schools’ interiors are inspired by the outdoors, the school grounds also draw teachers and students outside. “We’re just trying to encourage kids to get off their laptops and phones and do some stuff outside,” said Johnny Ponder, a Talladega County School Board member. “If you give a second- or third-grader a choice between an iPad or a mud hole full of frogs, they’re going to choose that mud hole 99 percent of the time. I believe teachers across Alabama are hungry for stuff like this. They’re just as tired of four walls and a chalkboard and desks as the kids are.”

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Above: Munford Elementary School students enjoyed hopping inside John Deere tractors during the school’s May 2016 Farm Day with the help of Talladega County Farmers Federation board member and Snead Ag store manager Justin Lackey.

Ponder was integral in developing the forestry-themed school campus, which now includes 12 outdoor classrooms, amphitheater, nature trail, longleaf pine stand, low ropes course, greenhouse, fish pond, frog pond, five-tier wetland, butterfly gardens, blue bird trail and an aquaculture facility. “My favorite project was in my aquaculture class,” said Munford High School senior Abby White. “We created a hydroponic system where we made plants grow without using any soil. It was pretty cool. People 31

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

will always ask how much it costs to come to this school, and they’re amazed when I tell them it doesn’t cost anything because it’s a public school.” White hopes to study physical therapy after graduating but said she’s considering a minor in a wildlife-related field because of her time at Munford. Agriscience teacher Carey Adams said he’s seen other students who also consider different careers because of classroom experiences. “A lot of kids didn’t think they’d be interested in agriculture, but with everything we can do here with the greenhouse and our shop, it starts to change students’ minds,” Adams said. “They think about going to Auburn University, Alabama A&M University or Mississippi State University to study agriculture or natural resources.” Munford science resource teacher Kimberly Murray said she’s proud of the commitment from Munford residents and

Above: Munford agriscience teacher Carey Adams, right, and a student inspect ferns at the school greenhouse. Left: Munford science resource teacher Kimberly Murray, left, and Munford senior Abby White at the Talladega County topography display in the elementary school.

businesses that has built an innovative solution for teaching students the Alabama course of study. “This is a collaboration of an entire community coming together to teach kids more about the outdoors and agriculture,” Murray said. “The community does so much for these kids and the schools, and we want to teach them to give back to the community as well.” The Talladega County Farmers Federation is one of the school’s community partners. The group donated fish for the fish pond before the school’s Farm Day event in May 2016, and board member Justin Lackey showed students new tractors at the Snead Ag booth. “Some of these kids have never been this close to a tractor before,” said Lackey, store manager for Snead Ag. “The Talladega County Farmers Federation is getting involved with schools because we know kids are the future.” For Ponder, the schools help emphasize a sense of pride in students as they learn to care for the unique natural resources and environment of Talladega County, including the national forest. “It’s built a better attitude in students,” he said. “We have better sports teams. Teachers are happier. Discipline issues have gone down and grades go up. I think natural resource conservation education should be the hub of all education because everything can be taught from it. And maybe one of these days that will happen, and we can say that it started in Munford. For video of the school, search for “No Child Stays Inside” on YouTube, or watch clips from an episode of Simply Southern at SimplySouthernTV.net. n

Jeff Register Building & Truss RegisterFarmBarns.com

40’ x 60’ x 12’ - Installed Roof only, closed gables - $7,642 Roof only, open gables - $6,850 30’ X 40’ X 10’ - Installed Roof only, open gables - $3,950

Locations: Gulfport, MS Canton, MS Highland Home, AL

Prices do not include tax and delivery.

Office (228) 687-0971 Cell (228) 234-9115 JRegister@registermetals.com w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Why Soybeans?

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

“Our Soybean Checkoff is working on new innovations to pack more nutrition into soybean meal, which will create more value for farmers .” — Colt Clemmons, Lauderdale County Soybean Farmer

A DIVISION OF THE ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION

Paid for by Alabama Soybean Producers Checkoff.

o you like the idea of a nearly endless supply of herbs this fall and winter? They are especially handy for dressings, soups, stews, hot teas and other beverages. Many herbs prefer cool fall weather and thrive in containers that can be sheltered during severe cold. A raised bed is nice, too, or any garden spot free of herbicides or other pesticides not labeled for food crops. Although they grow more slowly than many other herbs, chives are easy to use in multiples as a garden border so there’s always an abundance. To harvest the main ingredient in Green Goddess dressing, cut the chives’ leaves near the ground to avoid leaving a browned stub. The plants grow in clumps, so leave a portion of each clump unharvested to be sure enough leaves remain to replenish the plant’s energy. The spring blossoms are great in salad, too. Cilantro frustrates in the spring because it flowers quickly in warm weather, leaving little foliage to harvest, only tall stems with flowers and seeds (coriander). However, in fall and winter it remains vegetative, growing many leaves for multiple harvests until spring. Plant several to make salsa for Mexican and Asian dishes. If space allows, leave cilantro in the garden for pollinators and other beneficial insects when it blooms in the spring. Seeds can later be harvested to use as coriander. Garlic chives have flat, straplike leaves that taste like garlic and are often used in stir-fry. The leaves are also delicious in any raw dish where a mild garlic flavor suits. Mint loves mild weather. In the summer, the stems can get woody and in the winter mint may freeze back, but it grows like crazy in fall and spring. With protection from hard freezes, mint leaves can be enjoyed through winter. The trick to always having fresh mint is to keep the perennial plant fresh with

By Lois Chaplin

frequent trimming so tender new stems are always appearing. This takes care of itself if you add mint to beverages every day! Oregano can take a lot of cold. Just a few leaves of this hardy perennial are all that’s needed to make a pot of pasta sauce and many other Mediterranean dishes. German thyme behaves similarly. Just trim them back in late winter, cutting away bare woody stems under the plants. Curly parsley is beautiful in containers because it stays so lush through winter. Even if frozen for a few hours, it usually thaws out just fine. Put plenty in flowerbeds and pots mixed with colorful pansies to snip from here and there. It will

never look bare after your harvest. Flat leaved parsley, which is equally cold hardy, is the chef’s choice for chopping. Parsley will bloom in spring. If possible, leave it for the pollinators and beneficial insects, and then pull it up in late summer. Rosemary is a pretty small shrub with a long life span. Arp is the most cold-hardy, surviving all but the most severe winters throughout Alabama. Regular trimming will cause it to branch, creating many harvests. n Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

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

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

Grower Direct

Grow half-dollar size

Muscadines

and Blackberries. We also offer over 200 varieties of Fruit and Nut Trees plus Vine and Berry Plants.

Ison’s Nursery

Since 1934

Free Catalog

PO Box 190 Brooks, GA 30205 1-800-733-0324 • isons.com

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

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

CHICKEN CASSEROLE Courtesy of Valorie Stroud Start-to-finish: 35 minutes (5 minutes active) Serves 4-6 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves 10.75-ounce can cream of chicken soup 1 cup sour cream 3 tablespoons butter 1 sleeve Ritz crackers

Heat oven 350 F. Boil and shred chicken. Place in a large bowl. Mix cream of chicken soup and sour cream into the chicken. Pour chicken mixture into a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan. Crush Ritz crackers and pour into the saucepan. Stir to combine. Spread cracker mixture on top of the chicken mixture and bake for 30 minutes.

By Jill Clair Gentry

alorie Stroud doesn’t have much time for cooking these days — she’s busy raising her 5-year-old daughter, Abigail. That’s why she loves cooking with chicken. “My husband Steve and I are both 42, and we have an active little girl,” Valorie said. “We had the amazing opportunity to adopt Abi-

gail after we struggled with infertility and went through two failed adoptions. She keeps us young, and we stay busy. My priority right now is being a mom, so I love simple recipes.” The Strouds, who were an Alabama Farm of Distinction finalist for 2016, own and operate eight chicken houses on their farm in Pike County where Steve is Federation county president. He also serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation Board of Directors. Valorie said they’re often asked if they ever get tired of eating

chicken. “We’re around chickens all day, and then it’s pretty much all we eat,” Valorie said. “Even when we go out, we usually order chicken. We just love it, and it’s so easy to cook with.” Valorie started cooking meals when she was 12 while her mom shuttled her younger siblings to extracurricular activities. “We were all so busy in school activities, gymnastics and other things, I helped out a lot,” she said. “I’ve loved cooking ever since.”

CHICKEN POT PIE Courtesy of Valorie Stroud Start-to-finish: 1 hour (10 minutes active) Serves 4-6 2 refrigerated pie crusts 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded 2 15-ounce cans mixed vegetables 15-ounce can diced potatoes 2 cans cream of chicken soup Salt and pepper, to taste

Heat oven to 400 F. Place one of the pie crusts in a pie dish. Mix all other ingredients together and pour into pie crust. Moisten edges of crust with water and top with the other pie crust. Fold edges together or press with a fork. Cut slits in the top pie crust. Optional: apply an egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 teaspoon water) on the top pie crust to create a golden brown finish. Place pie dish on a cookie sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

LESS-FUSS FRIED CHICKEN Adapted from Nigella Lawson and Paula Deen Start-to-finish: 45 minutes Serves 4 4 chicken leg quarters 1/2 gallon milk 3 eggs 1/3 cup water 1 cup hot sauce 2 cups self-rising flour 1 teaspoon pepper 1/2 cup salt 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon black pepper Peanut oil

bowl, beat eggs with water and hot sauce. In large zip-top bag, combine flour and 1 teaspoon pepper. Combine salt, garlic powder and black pepper and generously season chicken. One at a time, dip the seasoned chicken in the egg mixture, then place chicken in zip-top bag and shake until coated. Add 2 inches of peanut oil to a

large pot and heat to 350 F. Place each piece of chicken into hot oil and cook until crisp and golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Editor’s note: A common struggle with frying chicken is making sure the chicken is fully cooked while being careful not to burn the skin. This method solves that problem, requires less oil and prevents the cook from handling raw chicken during the dredging process.

Place chicken in a large saucepan and pour in milk until chicken is covered. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, allowing to simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 25 minutes. Remove chicken from milk and place on a rack to cool for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium-sized BUFFALO CHICKEN DIP Courtesy of Valorie Stroud Start-to-finish: 40 minutes (10 minutes active) 8 ounces cream cheese 1/2 cup ranch dressing 2 cups boiled chicken, shredded 4 ounces buffalo wing sauce or hot sauce Shredded cheddar cheese

Cream together cream cheese and ranch dressing. Set aside. In a skillet, sauté chicken with hot sauce. Mix chicken mixture into the cream cheese mixture and spoon into a 9-inch pie plate. Top with cheddar cheese. Bake at 350 F for 30 minutes. Serve warm with tortilla chips, corn chips, crackers or raw vegetables. Alternate cooking method: place all ingredients in a small slow cooker and stir. Cook on high until ingredients are warmed through. Switch to low to keep dip warm throughout a gathering.

PARMESAN CHICKEN Courtesy of Valorie Stroud Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 10 minutes (10 minutes active) Serves 4 Butter 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 egg, beaten 2 tablespoons milk 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves 1/4 cup butter

Heat oven to 350 F. Coat a shallow baking dish with butter. Combine flour, Parmesan, salt and pepper in a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine egg and milk. Dip chicken in the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture. Place in baking dish and pour 1/4 cup butter over chicken. Bake for 1 hour or until chicken is cooked through.

CORNFLAKE CRUSTED CHICKEN Courtesy of Valorie Stroud Start-to-finish: 55 minutes (10 minutes active) Serves 4 Butter 1 egg 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 cups crushed cornflake cereal

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Coat a baking dish with butter. In a bowl, combine the egg, flour and seasonings. Place each chicken breast in egg mixture, then dredge in the crushed cornflakes. Transfer to the baking dish and bake 45 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Find these recipes in the “Local Flavor” section of AlfaFarmers.org and save them to a virtual recipe box called “My Recipe Box.” FA L L / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 6

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

SAVE A BUNDLE

DISH TV Service + High-Speed Internet

Introducing Pack, a skinny The New OverFlex Channels 50 bundle with 50+ popular channels

YOUR CHOICE, YOUR CHANNELS, YOUR PRICE.

G U A R A N T EE D

Prices starting at:

1495

Restrictions apply. Subject to availability.

99 Per Month

PLUS Your Choice of First Channel Pack Included

FOR 2 YEARS.

... and many more!

Create Your Own TV Package

Add’l channel packs for only

FIRST CHANNEL PACK INCLUDED!

$10 /mo. Each

National Action Channel Pack

Variety Channel Pack

Kids Channel Pack

News Channel Pack

Locals Channel Pack

... and many more!

FOR A LIMITED Add the new Hopper 3 for only $10/mo. more. TIME! Watch and record up to 16 shows at once. Hopper upgrade fee may apply.

FRE FREE

for 3 months

Offer subject to change based on premium channel availability. Not available with certain packages. Regular monthly prices apply after 3 months unless you call to cancel.

FREE

HD for life All offers require credit qualification, 24-month commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay.

CALL NOW

1-844-490-7781

WWW.INFINITYDISH.COM

SE HABLA ESPAÑOL

WE ARE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK; 8 AM – MIDNIGHT EST, SUNDAY 9 AM – MIDNIGHT EST. OFFER ONLY GOOD FOR NEW DISH SUBSCRIBERS. All calls with InfinityDISH are monitored and recorded for quality assurance and training purposes. Offer for new and qualifying former customers only. Qualification: Advertised price requires credit qualification and eAutoPay. Upfront activation and/or receiver upgrade fees may apply based on credit qualification. Offer ends 10/27/16. 2-Year Commitment: Early termination fee of $20/mo. remaining applies if you cancel early. Included in 2-year price guarantee at $39.99 advertised price: Flex Pack plus one add-on Pack, HD service fees, and equipment for 1 TV. Available with 2-year price guarantee for additional cost: Programming package upgrades ($54.99 for AT120+, $64.99 for AT200, $74.99 for AT250), monthly fees for additional receivers ($7 per additional TV, receivers with additional functionality may be $10-$15) and monthly DVR service fees ($10). NOT included in 2-year price guarantee or advertised price (and subject to change): Taxes & surcharges, add-on programming (including premium channels), Protection Plan, and transactional fees. Premium Channels: Subject to credit qualification. After 3 mos., you will be billed $60/mo. for HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and DISH Movie Pack unless you call to cancel. Other: All packages, programming, features, and functionality are subject to change without notice. After 6 mos., you will be billed $8/mo. for Protection Plan unless you call to cancel. After 2 years, then-current everyday prices for all services apply. For business customers, additional monthly fees may apply. Free standard professional installation only. HBO®, Cinemax® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME is a registered trademark of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS Company. STARZ and related channels and service marks are property of Starz Entertainment, LLC. Visa® gift card must be requested through your DISH Representative at time of purchase. $50 Visa® gift card requires activation. You will receive a claim voucher within 3-4 weeks and the voucher must be returned within 30 days. Your Visa® gift card will arrive in approximately 6-8 weeks. InfinityDISH charges a one-time $49.99 non-refundable processing fee which is subject to change at any time without notice. Indiana C.P.D. Reg. No. T.S. R1903.