Neighbors Magazine, September 2023

September/Fall 2023 | Volume 48 | Number 8

Marlee Jackson | Editor

Laura Unger | Graphic Designer

ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION

Paul Pinyan Executive Director

Jeff Helms | Director of Communications

FEDERATION OFFICERS

Jimmy Parnell | President, Stanton

Rex Vaughn | Vice President | North, Huntsville

Jon Hegeman Vice President | Central, Anniston

George Jeffcoat Vice President | Southeast, Gordon

Jake Harper | Vice President | Southwest, Camden

Steve Dunn Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen

DIRECTORS

Dorman Grace | Jasper

Jeff Peek | Athens

John Bert East Leesburg

Steve Lake | Vinemont

Joe Anders Northport

Phillip Hunter | Birmingham

Joe Lambrecht | Wetumpka

Tommy Martin | Moundville

Bill Cook Montgomery

Trip Horne | Louisville

Mark Kaiser | Daphne

Thomas Adams Newville

Ann Whatley | Opelika

Jonathan Edgar Wetumpka

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.

In This Issue

4 | Farm & Land Expo Tours, Seminars Inspire Farmers

5 | Sewing, Design Contests Highlight Alabama Ag

8 | Farmers Honor Experts for Research, Extension

10 | Alfa Foundation Awards $100,000 to Students

POSTMASTER

Send address changes to Neighbors

P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001

MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES

800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE

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

DISCLAIMERS: Advertisements in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement by the magazine or Alabama Farmers Federation. Editorial information from sources outside the Alabama Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Alabama Farmers Federation policies. Publication of information does not imply an endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation.

www.AlfaFarmers.org

18 | Country Stores Support Communities

6

On The Cover Brady and Anna Peek are Alabama’s 2023 Outstanding Young Farm Family. They raise row crops (and newborn son Ridge) in Limestone and Lauderdale counties and will receive a prize package worth over $80,000.

Photo By Jeff Helms

28 | Tailgate-Ready Recipes

18

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Summer Conference Educates, Inspires Farmers

By Marlee Jackson

Scores of trucks bearing Farming

Feeds Alabama vanity tags filled parking garages in Mobile Aug. 10-12 as 700 attendees packed out the Alabama Farmers Federation’s summer conference.

Perennial favorite farm tours and new commodity-specific educational tracks were highlights of the Farm & Land Expo. The Federation’s Governmental & Agricultural Programs (GAP) Department organizes the annual event.

“Even though we know things are hard on the farm right now, it was refreshing to see our farmers relaxed while they caught up with each other,” said GAP Department Director Mitt Walker. “We’re hopeful they were able to recharge while learning something they can implement back home.”

To better serve farmers, Walker’s team created targeted seminar tracks for poultry, row crops, beef cattle, specialty crops and natural resources. Many sessions were standing room only.

Additionally, two general sessions focused on risk management tools and an agricultural economic outlook — critical topics due to weather, market fluctuations and rising interest rates.

Dr. Mykel Taylor kicked off the outlook session asking, “Anyone remember 18% interest rates?”

The room echoed with a chorus of chuckles and groans. Eighteen-plus percent interest reigned in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. Rates are above 5% now.

“We’re high relative to where we’ve been but not relative to history,” said Taylor, an economist and the Alfa Endowed Eminent Scholar at Auburn University (AU). “We’re probably getting closer to normal than where we’ve been for the last 7-10 years.”

During the Farm & Land Expo, farmers hopped on buses that visited farms and agribusinesses across Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties — all packed with information to help farmers improve their bottom lines. Tours included the Armentrout TREASURE Forest, AU’s Ornamental Horticulture Research Center, Bellingrath Gardens, boat tours of Mobile Bay, Coastal Growers peanut-shelling plant, Driskell Turf Farm, Faggard Farms, Freeland Farms, Martin’s Nursery, Mason Hills meat

processor, McKenzie Farm Market, Mullek Farm, Ramsay Cattle Co. and Sessions Farm Market.

Keeping with the conference theme of practical application for farmers, the Federation honored two experts for tangibly impacting farmers’ lives. Dr. Steve Li received the Rittenour Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Research, while Gerry Thompson was awarded the Duncan Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Extension. (See pages 8 and 9.)

Alabama’s Port City also hosted contests for the Women’s Leadership and Young Farmers divisions. (See pages 5 and 6.)

To kick off the conference, U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl, R-Ala., joined the packed banquet room of farmers. His 1st Congressional District includes Mobile. He encouraged the slate of Federation leaders, sharing positive stories from Washington, D.C.

“We’re feeding the world with the people in this room, and we thank you,” Carl said.

Above from left: U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl, R-Ala., welcomed farmers to Alabama’s Port City; Farmers got an up-close view of Faggard Farms in Mobile County during the Farm & Land Expo; Federation Area 6 Organization Director Mac Higginbotham visited with Greene County Farmers Federation board member Vaughn Poe.

Alabama Agriculture Woven through Winning Quilts, Wreath

By Marlee Jackson

Acommon thread ran through creative quilts, blankets, pillows and wreaths on display at the Mobile Convention Center Aug. 12 — Alabama’s agricultural diversity.

The Alabama Farmers Federation Women’s Leadership Division sponsored the farm-inspired sewing and decorating contests, held during the annual Farm & Land Expo in Mobile.

“It always amazes me what our ladies can do,” said State Women’s Leadership Committee Chair Ann Whatley of Lee County. “They are so creative and talented in how they spotlight our different commodities.”

The contests included categories for hand-stitched and machine-stitched quilts; adult and youth divisions for lap blankets; machine-stitched pillow covers; and commodity-themed wreaths.

Dozens of conference guests viewed entries during the Farm & Land Expo, marveling at the time-intensive, colorful creations. Entries highlighted a range of commodities, from cotton, cattle and specialty crops to bees, trees and poultry.

Viewers included Twyla Smith of Crenshaw County, who soaked up fellow entrants’ inspiring designs. Smith won

the hand-stitched quilt category with a variation on a log cabin pattern.

“Quilts are comforting,” Smith said. “I dabble in a lot of things. I paint, play piano, quilt, crochet. But I love to quilt.”

Winning entrants were:

Hand-Stitched Quilt

n First — Twyla Smith, Crenshaw County

n Second — Martha Jordan, Monroe County

n Third — Pat Norred, Randolph County

Machine-Stitched Quilt

n First — Glenda Stewart, Geneva County

n Second — Ruby Nuss, St. Clair County

n Third — Melanie Stokley, Washington County

Adult Lap Blanket

n First (tie) — Tamara Rashleigh, St. Clair County; Elizabeth Usery, Geneva County

n Second — Marie Slade, Clarke County

n Third — Jackie Henderson, Lee County

Youth Lap Blanket

n First (tie) — Holli Howell, Geneva County; Trevor Wicks, St. Clair County

Machine-Stitched Pillow Cover

n First — Melanie Stokley, Washington County

n Second — Rhonda Hughes, Jefferson County

n Third — Glenda Stewart, Geneva County

Commodity-Themed Wreath

n First — Teresa Hatten, Crenshaw County

n Second — Lucy Lawrence, Tallapoosa County

n Third — Mary Helms, Houston County

First-, second- and third-place winners received $150, $100 and $75, respectively.

Twyla Smith, first, hand-stitched quilt

Glenda Stewart, first, machine-stitched quilt

Teresa Hatten, first, commodity-themed wreath

Melanie Stokley, first, machine-stitched pillow cover

Trevor Wicks, first (tie), youth lap blanket

Holli Howell, first (tie), youth lap blanket

Tamara Rashleigh, first (tie), adult lap blanket

Elizabeth Usery, first (tie), adult lap blanket

Magic in Mobile: Young Farmers Win Top Titles

Additionally, the Loveladys and Henrys will receive $500 from perennial sponsors Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit.

OYFF interviews were held in March, and judges visited the three finalist farms in July to select the OYFF. Families are judged on farm growth, community involvement and Federation and American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) leadership. OYFF competitors must receive more than half their income from production agriculture.

By Maggie Edwards

Young Farmers secured wins, prizes and experience advocating for agriculture during contests at the Alabama Farmers Federation Farm & Land Expo Aug. 12 in Mobile.

Leaders from Limestone and Winston counties took home wins for the Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) and Excellence in Agriculture competitions, respectively, while four Discussion Meet finalists were announced. The contests are for 18- to 35-year-old members.

Brady and Anna Peek of Limestone County were named Alabama’s OYFF. The Peeks raise row crops and have a newborn son, Ridge.

As the OYFF, they will receive more than $80,000 in prizes, including $40,000 toward a new Ford

truck, compliments of Alfa Insurance; a John Deere 835M Gator sponsored by Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; and a year’s lease on a John Deere tractor, thanks to John Deere, SunSouth and TriGreen.

First and second runners-up in the OYFF competition will receive prize packages from new OYFF sponsors Kubota and Corteva Agriscience.

Whit and Amanda Lovelady of Talladega County were named first runner-up. They receive use of a Kubota M series tractor, courtesy of Kubota. The Loveladys have two children, Annagrace and John Luke, and raise cattle and hay.

Mitchell and Rebecca Henry of Lawrence County were second runner-up and earned a custom chemical package from Corteva. The Henrys also raise cattle and hay, in addition to son Clint.

DISCUSSION MEET FINAL FOUR

Excellence in Agriculture winner Zack Brannon of Winston County will receive a zero-turn Grasshopper lawn mower, sponsored by Corteva. In this contest, participants showcase the role agriculture plays in their lives and present solutions on agricultural issues. Brannon is an Extension agent.

The first runner-up couple was Josh and Bailey Williams of Tallapoosa County, with Jake and Sheena Gay of Randolph County as second runner-up.

Twenty-two Young Farmers competed in Discussion Meet. The four finalists are Caleb Beason of Franklin County, Miller Bonds of Limestone County, Greyson Lauderdale of Limestone County and Gavin Rankins of Chambers County.

Discussion Meet simulates a committee meeting where participants discuss solutions to agricultural issues. The Final Four will compete during the Federation’s annual meeting in December. The winner will score a four-wheeler from First South Farm Credit.

All finalists received a custom Solo Stove from the Federation and Alfa. Winners will represent Alabama during AFBF national competitions in January in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Caleb Beason

Zack Brannon of Winston County won the Excellence in Agriculture contest Aug. 12.

Miller Bonds Greyson Lauderdale Gavin Rankins

From left are Federation and Alfa President Jimmy Parnell; Outstanding Young Farm Family winners Brady, Anna and Ridge Peek; and Federation Young Farmers Division Director Hunter McBrayer.

Farmers Honor Li for Cutting-Edge Research

and efficiency. He’s testing spray rates, mapping techniques and applications farmers can use for row crops, nursery plants and more.

“The ultimate goal is to test new methods and technologies on farms in a real setting and see how it works,” said Li, who has degrees from China Agricultural University, AU and the University of Georgia. “If I only fly on picture-perfect, super-flat fields with no obstacles, it’ll be easy. I’ll never crash a drone. I tell people, ‘Throw me a tough one.’”

Li’s calm demeanor and commitment to excellence helped the researcher build an easy rapport with farmers. That includes Wilson, who chairs the Federation’s State Wheat & Feed Grain Committee, which has funded trials through checkoff dollars. Cotton, peanut and soybean checkoffs have invested in Li’s research, too.

By Marlee Jackson

For more than a year, Alabama Farmers Federation meetings have had a near-constant agenda item: Spray Drone Demonstration by Dr. Steve Li. Li’s high-flying presentations, coupled with on-farm research, have helped farmers across commodities harness innovative technology for crop protection.

That same work earned Li the Federation’s Rittenour Award for Production Agriculture & Forestry Research, presented Aug. 10 during the Farm & Land Expo in Mobile.

“Dr. Li listens to us,” said Jeremy Wilson of Talladega County, one of several farmers who nominated Li. “He’s on the cutting edge. He’s testing the tech farmers don’t have but that we want to get and use.”

This is the fifth annual Rittenour Award, which recognizes Auburn University (AU) faculty for creative research. Li is an associate professor and Extension specialist focused on weed science and received $10,000 from the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation.

Since joining AU’s staff in 2014, Li has tested the next generation of technology slated to revolutionize farming while saving time and money. Today’s solution is spray drones. The battery-powered drones are about the size of a truck bed once the arms, fitted with propellers and nozzles, extend. The drones spot-spray weeds; reduce crop damage caused by tall spray rigs; and help farmers manage crops in soggy fields.

Li’s research examines drone efficacy

Li often shares research results on Facebook. His feed is peppered with positive comments, questions and stakeholders volunteering for on-farm trials. Li’s recommendations and training sessions have also helped Alabama farmers fight herbicide resistance and reduce drift over the last decade.

Now drone demos are paying dividends. Alabama’s first commercial spray drone companies went live this year. Individual farmers are also gaining Federal Aviation Administration approval.

Li’s influence extends beyond Alabama through professional agronomic and engineering societies. He’s earned invitations to Environmental Protection Agency meetings, CropLife America discussions and international technology summits.

In August, he was back on the Federation’s Farm & Land Expo agenda highlighting drone use and laws — just two days after his Rittenour Award recognition.

“I appreciate it very much,” he said. “I don’t help people for a return. I wasn’t expecting anything, but this is a pleasant surprise. And I think it’s great to know people appreciate what we do.”

Dr. Steve Li’s impactful weed science research has tangibly helped hundreds of farmers, including State Wheat & Feed Grain Committee Chair Jeremy Wilson, left. To honor Li, Wilson nominated the Auburn scientist for the annual Rittenour Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Research.

Dr. Steve Li, right, received the Rittenour Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Research Aug. 10 from Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

Thompson Rewarded for Outstanding Extension Efforts

By Maggie Edwards

Sixteen years spent managing cattle operations led Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES) Regional Agent Gerry Thompson to his current passion — serving Alabama farmers.

“A lot of my success with Extension comes from my background as a farmer,” Thompson said. “When I was in production ag, I had great relationships with my Extension agents. When the opportunity to join ACES came in 2000, I was delighted for the chance to help farmers.”

Thompson’s program areas include animal science and forages in Blount, Cullman, Limestone, Madison and Morgan counties. He’s based at the Tennessee Valley Regional Research & Extension Center.

His hard work earned Thompson the Duncan Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Extension, plus $5,000 for programming costs from the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation.

This is the fifth annual Duncan Award, coordinated by the Alabama Farmers Federation to reward Auburn University (AU) and ACES professionals for helping Alabama farmers.

Thompson received the award during the organization’s Farm & Land Expo in Mobile Aug. 10.

“I am proud of this award because one of my best friends and clients, Jaffe Paysinger, nominated me for the honor,” said Thompson, a two-time graduate of AU. “It is so meaningful to be in the same category as past animal science winners like Dr. Kent Stanford and Dr. Kim Mullenix.”

Thompson’s commitment to and knowledge of production agriculture drive his ability to help farmers, Paysinger said. Paysinger was one of several farmers who nominated Thompson for the Duncan Award.

“It’s agents like him who help producers become successful,” said Paysinger, whose farm includes hay, forages, cattle and poultry. “Extension

has helped me improve my bottom line and saved me thousands of dollars.”

Thompson, along with other Extension professionals, implemented the innovative “Alfalfa in the South” grant on Paysinger’s farm in Elkmont.

“I wanted to grow the high end of horse hay,” said Paysinger, who serves on the Limestone County Farmers Federation board. “Gerry helped with land selection, soil sampling, soil preparation, seeding and drill

calibration to make my alfalfa a success. We harvested it to make cattle feed in a ration for preconditioning calves. He also helped implement my cattleworking facility.”

Whether checking forages in the field, helping work cattle or answering calls about weeds, Thompson is always there for his farmers, Paysinger said.

Chris Prevatt, the Federation’s Beef and Hay & Forage divisions director, agreed.

“Gerry and I collaborated during my time working for Florida Extension and now with the Federation,” Prevatt said. “His dedication to the agricultural industry and service to his clientele will leave Alabama agriculture better than he found it.”

Thompson’s heart for people, service and good cattle have left hoof prints on numerous Alabama farmers, Prevatt continued with a smile.

Creating that positive change is a highlight of his career, Thompson said.

“One of the great things about being an Extension agent is helping people who ask for it,” Thompson said. “I’m grateful my clients became my friends, and I am blessed to have this job.”

Jaffe Paysinger, right, nominated Gerry Thompson for the annual Duncan Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Extension. Thompson is a regional Extension agent in north Alabama and focuses on animal science and forage production.

Gerry Thompson, right, received the Duncan Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Extension Aug. 10 from Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

Alfa Foundation Awards $100,000 in College Scholarships

By Melissa Martin

The Alfa Foundation recently awarded $100,000 in scholarships to 100 students attending colleges and universities across Alabama. Recipients, who hail from 44 counties and will attend 23 different academic institutions, each received $1,000 from the Foundation to use on tuition, fees, books or supplies in the 2023-24 academic year.

Since 2014, the Alfa Foundation has awarded $950,000 to deserving students through its scholarship program, which is administered by Kaleidoscope.

“We are proud to support this outstanding group of students as they further their education within the state of Alabama,” said Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell.

Scholarships were awarded based on grade-point average, participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience and future goals. To qualify, students must be enrolled — or planning to enroll — in a full-time accredited program at a two-year or four-year college, university or vocational-technical school located in Alabama.

The 2023-24 recipients and their schools, listed by county, are:

Autauga County

Grace Downey, The University of Alabama at Huntsville

Baldwin County

Anne Darby Clark, Auburn University (AU)

Kellen Lincoln, Coastal Alabama Comm. College (CACC)

Chandler Little, AU

Lyndon Trimble, The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)

Emma Weatherford, The University of Alabama (UA)

Barbour County

Ben Strickland, Wallace Comm. College (WCC)

Blount County

Abby Burgess, AU

Butler County

Rosie Rogers, Lurleen B. Wallace Comm. College (LBWCC)

Calhoun County

Gavin Lawler, Gadsden State Comm. College (GSCC)

Cherokee County

Bryan East, GSCC

Choctaw County

Aaron Brown, CACC

Brier Perry, CACC

Clarke County

Dalton Boykin, CACC

Luke Stephens, CACC

Coffee County

Ella Hogan, AU

Chase Morgan, Troy University

Crenshaw County

Emily Anne Morgan, LBWCC

Eli Nichols, UAB

Cullman County

Landon Green, UA

Luke Troutman, AU

Dale County

Rebekah Hatcher, UAB

Austin Kerchner, Huntingdon College

Emily Powell, Wallace State Comm. College (WSCC)

Baker Shipes, WSCC

Shelby Weeks, UA

DeKalb County

Lydia Crane, GSCC

Whitley Petty, Northeast Alabama Comm. College (NACC)

Elmore County

Ava Rose Dean, Huntingdon College

Jackson Hand, AU

Alli Lightsey, UA

Laney Mehearg, Auburn University at Montgomery

Cohen Palmore, AU

Escambia County

Winfred Brittain, UAB

Etowah County

Allie Blevins, AU

Katie Giles, The University of South Alabama (USA)

Bryer Morrison, AU

Greene County

Chasity Watkins, UAB

Henry County

Olivia Shelley, Troy University

Houston County

Emily Calhoun, WCC

Harrison Mims, AU

Jackson County

Adair Holland, University of North Alabama (UNA)

Rylee Reyes, NACC

Jefferson County

Olivia Browning, AU

Will Cochran, Southern Union State Comm. College (SUSCC)

Kayla Duckworth, WSCC

Sara Graves, AU

Carolyn McCleney, WSCC

Anaya Wooden, Alabama State University

Lamar County

Madi Moore, Bevill State Comm. College (BSCC)

Annalisa Robertson, Samford University

Lee County

J.D. Bearrentine, AU

Montana Childree, SUSCC

Emily Coshatt, AU

Jenniffer Coxwell, Jacksonville State University

Garrett Keyt, Troy University

Karley Nelson, SUSCC

Lauren Persons, AU

Seth Walker, AU

Limestone County

Landon Story, Calhoun Comm. College (CCC)

Lowndes County

Faith Lane, AU

Macon County

Rachel Sargent, AU

Madison County

Lauren Campbell, AU

Mika Hobbs, CCC

Gavin Maynard, UNA

Ashton Towry, AU

Adeline Werth, AU

Marengo County

Anderson Gates, CACC

Marion County

Adam Aldridge, BSCC

Ella Brooke Crumpton, BSCC

Marshall County

Breanna Black, Snead State Comm. College

Valerie Owens, Central Alabama Comm. College

Chase Pearce, WSCC

Mobile County

Sarah Claire Hults, USA

Leah Robinson, UA

Monroe County

Averett Hines, CACC

Ava Grace Hobbs, AU

Maddie Hobbs, Troy University

Montgomery County

J.T. Moorer, Troy University

Reese Patterson, UA

Morgan County

Jayla Milligan, WSCC

Addison Mote, CCC

Hunter Nichols, CCC

Pike County

K.C. Bradford, Troy University

Russell County

Georgia-Lee Smith, AU

Shelby County

Nora Grace Cotton, UA

Allison Needham, UA

Dani Thompson, AU

Ross Tolbert, AU

Garrett Watts, UA

St. Clair County

Anna Bean, UAB

Colin Crump, WSCC

Sumter County

Savannah Burg, Troy University

Tallapoosa County

Cameron Tubbs, SUSCC

Tuscaloosa County

Madelyn Clary, UAB

Landon Reynolds, UA

Brennan Young, AU

Walker County

Ethan Crowell, BSCC

Washington County

Hayley Platt, AU

Annah Claire Waite, UA

Farmers Resilient Despite Diminished Supply of Specialty Crops

By Marlee Jackson

Alabama’s sweltering summer should have passed in a flurry of fruit picking for farmers like Lynn Harrison.

Instead, a March freeze devastated perennial specialty crops, squeezed profit margins, limited supplies at farm stands and caused farmers to tap into savings.

“I don’t know if everyone is this way, but I try to keep two years of operating money set aside,” said Harrison, the Chilton County Farmers Federation president. “If I have extra, I add to that.”

Harrison’s frugal approach paid off in the wake of a less-than-stellar production year. Each peach tree usually yields 15 baskets of the regionally famous fruit. This year, he gleaned just 10 baskets from a 30-tree orchard.

The loss was 99% farm-wide, Harrison said.

“On March 20, I had peaches that were this big,” said Harrison, making a quarter-sized circle with his thumb and pointer. “Then it got below freezing for eight and a half hours. I was hopeful for our late-season peaches, so I planted summer vegetables for our farm stand. By the end of May, I knew we wouldn’t have a real crop.”

In Washington County, blueberry farmer Jimmy Ferguson faced a similar reality two days before Harrison.

He spent the night of March 18 fighting freezing temperatures with a propane-fueled wind machine. The towering fan pulls warmer air closer to the fruit, ideally protecting the fragile buds from frost.

The first night was bad for tender, early blueberries. Night 2 was killer. Following the freeze, Ferguson hit the fields to document damage. Photos of scarred berries were critical when he made a crop insurance claim.

“Farming is a form of gambling,” said Ferguson, who serves on the Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) board.

“That’s why we have crop insurance.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates and reinsures specialty crop insurance through its Risk Management Agency (RMA). Covered crops include apiculture, blueberries, nursery products, peaches, pecans and more.

Gov. Kay Ivey worked with the USDA Farm Service Agency to help farmers post-freeze, too. A disaster declaration made farmers in 51 counties eligible for emergency loans. It was the first step to ensure eligibility for possible future assistance from USDA or Congress, said AFVGA Executive Director Blake Thaxton.

“A freeze like this shows the importance of not just living on a prayer,” Thaxton said. “Lynn and Jimmy are resilient. They have different approaches to preparing for disasters, but the key is they’re both actively prepared.”

This summer, the Harrison Fruit Farms stand still opened off Highway 82 near Maplesville. Harrison sourced peaches from other farmers when possible, often paying exorbitant prices because of low supply and steady demand.

Customers paid the price, too. A 4-quart basket of peaches cost customers $22, which is $8 more than last year. Harrison barely broke even.

While the freeze devastated quantities of fruit, Harrison and Ferguson also contended with consumer misconceptions about quality. They continued to encourage stops at farm markets, too, for later-planted summer produce.

Despite the season’s toll, Harrison is already at work preparing orchards for next year.

“These trees are planted, and I’ve got to do something with them,” Harrison said. “This is what I do. I made enough to farm again next year, so that’s good enough.”

Lynn Harrison and specialty crop farmers across the state dealt with cracked, immature peaches after a freeze this March. While he was able to glean a few large peaches, the crop was far short of average.

Above: Jimmy Ferguson’s mechanical blueberry harvester sat idle this summer after a March freeze devastated his Washington County crop. Left: Ferguson used a wind machine in an attempt to protect fragile blueberries during the freeze.

Alfa Earns National Award for Innovation

Alfa Insurance was recently awarded the 10th annual Award in Innovation from the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC). Alfa received the honor for the creation and continued success of its Alfa Leadership Academy.

“Since the launch of the academy in 2015, we’ve been placing a critical emphasis on developing Alfa’s next generation of leaders,” said Alfa and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “Academy classes have been transformative, helping our company break down organizational silos, build trust and improve self-awareness among those participants who take on leadership positions.”

Alfa Leadership Academy participants include insurance and Federation employees.

During the yearlong program, class members develop leadership skills, enhance company culture, build innovative solutions and provide exceptional service to customers.

Alfa Leadership Academy Class 8 was tasked to find an innovative aspect of the company to nominate for the NAMIC award, Parnell said. They chose the academy, citing evident advancements and improvements made within the company over the last eight years.

Former class initiatives led to developing innovative strategies to retain employees; creating a survey to evaluate corporate culture; and forming a new marketing strategy based upon Alfa’s Core 4 values of faith, family, community and integrity. Parnell and Alfa leadership accepted the award June 27 in Quebec City, Canada. NAMIC

President and CEO Neil Alldredge hailed Alfa’s innovative achievements.

“The Alfa Leadership Academy is the hallmark of innovation at Alfa Insurance and demonstrates the difference it can make when insurers embrace and implement innovative processes, technologies and critical thinking,” Alldredge said. “By positioning the people who serve Alfa’s region to take charge, the company has proven just how effective innovation can be in making sure policyholders can continue to receive a high level of service.”

Award criteria included impact in perpetuating mutuality; creativity; measurable impact; potential for the idea to be adapted by NAMIC members; and alignment with focus areas of strategy, innovation, leadership, industry trends and the economy.

The award was sponsored by Guy Carpenter, a global risk and reinsurance specialist based in New York.

Understanding the Blessing of Life Insurance

Hopkins said while it’s easy to put life insurance on the back burner, it’s important to prioritize securing coverage — especially when starting a family, getting married or preparing for retirement.

“As we get older, premiums increase; quite often, our health begins to change, making it more difficult to afford the insurance we need,” Hopkins said. “When looking for insurance, buy as much as you can reasonably afford as young as you possibly can.”

Hopkins said there are two types of life insurance — term and permanent.

“The death benefit my family received from the policy my father had in place was vital for my mom as she figured out how to move forward,” said Spear, Alfa’s director of life strategies.

Following his own advice, Spear has a policy in place for his two children.

By Brooke Foster

“Atrue blessing” is how Alfa Insurance Vice President of Life Operations Jan Hopkins said she viewed life insurance after losing her mother.

It’s one reason she’s passionate about the work she does every day — ensuring Alfa’s customers get the life insurance coverage they need to help make navigating the loss of a loved one a little easier.

“I’ve seen the positive impact life insurance can have on families, including my own,” Hopkins said. “After my mom passed away, her insurance policy took care of all final expenses, giving me one less thing to worry about during such a difficult time.”

Term life provides death benefits within a certain time, typically 10-30 years, and can be a more affordable option. Permanent life offers life-long protection and can build cash value.

Hopkins’ coworker Brad Spear knows the value of life insurance, too. When Spear was just 12 years old, his father passed away.

Spear said the benefit of a life insurance policy can be invaluable as families grieve and plan after a loss.

“I don’t like to think about them growing up without me, but the policy I have in place would ensure their lives would not be interrupted by the loss of my income if something happened to me,” Spear said. “During my time in the Life Department, I’ve seen a sole provider of a family of five pass away tragically, leaving the other parent and full-time child caretaker responsible for generating income. Situations like that make you realize how important it is to be intentional in selecting the right product.”

No matter the stage of life, Alfa offers insurance options to help plan for the future. Visit AlfaInsurance.com to complete a life insurance needs analysis, or contact a local Alfa agent to get the coverage you need today.

Life Insurance: What's the Difference?

Alfa Insurance veterans Brad Spear and Jan Hopkins have seen first-hand the value of having a life insurance policy in place.

Far left: Alfa Insurance Vice President of Life Operations Jan Hopkins is pictured with her mother and family members. Left: Alfa’s Director of Life Strategies Brad Spear has two children — Raeleigh Belle and Sidney. Spear was just 12 when his father died, an experience which fueled his decision to purchase life insurance early.

The Marble Bowl: Bringing the Iron Bowl Rivalry to Citizen Science

By Cole Sikes

Football and the state of Alabama go together like peas and carrots. Most Alabamians know about the highly anticipated collegiate contest — the Iron Bowl.

However, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System has a new competition that allows fans of Auburn University (AU) and the University of Alabama to pit their science skills against one another in a rivalry of citizen science — the Marble Bowl. This competition aims to excite everyone’s inner scientist.

Wesley Anderson, an Alabama Extension forestry, wildlife and natural resources specialist, used the Iron Bowl as inspiration to invent this competition.

“Alabama is blessed with incredible biodiversity that is among the highest in the nation,” Anderson said. “With these facts in mind, the increased need for documenting biodiversity around the state becomes clear.”

In coordination with the Alabama Museum of Natural History, AU Museum of Natural History, and AU College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, the Marble Bowl was born.

refers to the public’s participation in scientific research, and in this field, an advanced educational degree is not necessary. Anderson said the reality is anyone can contribute to science.

“Our world is changing rapidly, and we need to develop a baseline of what biodiversity in our state looks like now so, down the road, we can assess how it differs and what we should do about it,” Anderson said. “This means observations made around where you live, work and play have value, too.”

How to Compete

Beginning the opening weekend of football season and running through the weekend of the Iron Bowl in late November, everyone can participate by submitting observations of wild plants, animals and fungi to one of two projects on the iNaturalist platform. This online site stores crowdsourced public observations of biological organisms.

The simplest way to submit entries for this contest is via the iNaturalist mobile application. Add submissions — which can include a photo

and manual identification of a species — from the palm of your hand.

The application will also use artificial intelligence to geotag and suggest an initial species identification. If correct, points will be awarded to the team of choice. At the conclusion of the Iron Bowl, the contest results can be seen in real time on the iNaturalist Marble Bowl event page.

Get Ready for a BioBlitz

Get ready to bring the heated Iron Bowl rivalry to the realm of science this football season. The Marble Bowl is the perfect opportunity to grab some extra bragging rights for the upcoming year.

For more information on the Marble Bowl and other research initiatives, visit aces.edu.

A Step Back in Time: Country Stores Still Impact Communities

By Maggie Edwards

Strands of lights, rustic hardwood floors, glass bottle Cokes and unique signs bring the 66-year-old Jefferson Country Store to life.

“I remember running around this store when I was a little girl,” said Betsy Compton Luker, who owns Jefferson’s with her husband, Tony. “My cousin, Clifford Compton, built the store back in 1957. This place has been in the family for generations.”

Country stores served communities decades ago with dry goods and bulk groceries — and still serve locals, Betsy said.

“A community needs its necessities,” she said. “We are not a municipality or an incorporated community, but people living in this area could need a product, a safety net and a sense of community. We try to meet two or three of those needs.”

Betsy and Tony reopened the Marengo County landmark in 2013, giving the store a new taste with the same country feel.

“It is bittersweet seeing my daughter and son-in-law run this store,” said Betsy’s father and Jefferson Country Store institution David Compton. “It is fantastic for this community.”

Betsy’s father bought the store in ‘67 and ran it for decades. Betsy said seeing

Above: Locals and visitors from a nearby campground enjoyed the Southern hospitality offered at the Jefferson Country Store. Clockwise from below left: Betsy Compton Luker and her loved ones are continuing a family legacy running the Marengo County store. Her father, David Compton, ran the store for decades; Betsy’s husband, Tony, multitasks at the Jefferson Country Store, manning the grill and cash register alone most days; Betsy and Tony have owned Jefferson’s since 2013. The store was built in 1957 and housed the local post office for years. It’s still a village post office, accepting mail and selling stamps. Overlapping signs add a unique, rustic flair to the business, which has welcomed visitors from around the world.

her husband run the business her family started is special.

“Tony has a good mindset, personality and cooking skills,” Betsy said. “He forges relationships with people. He cares how people are doing.”

Jefferson Country Store is best known for “Chef Tony’s” old-fashioned bologna, barbecue and cheeseburgers. Stickers plastered across the store highlight clever sayings and local businesses like Alfa Insurance, whose iconic red logo is on the cash register.

From neighboring Mississippians to visitors from France, Betsy and Tony have served a diverse cross section of guests. That includes Yvonne Dikes, a Mississippi native who camps nearby.

“We were told about the store, so we came to see its uniqueness and to savor the flavor of the cooking,” she said.

Two-hundred thirty miles from Marengo County lies a similar hidden gem in Hollywood.

Just like Jefferson’s, Shorty Machen’s Grocery & Deli serves its community in northeast Jackson County.

“People get to come in here and be a family,” said Cassandra Mason, who has worked at Shorty’s for 15 years. “The kids can run through the store and play. They become family. They’re not just another ticket.”

Shorty’s is owned by Aubrey Machen Jr. — lovingly called Shorty — and his son, Rob.

The two-story brick building has been standing since the late 1800s, and the Machen family took ownership in the 1960s.

In between cutting hay, moving fields and working animals, farmers often pop in for a fresh bite to eat and down-home Southern hospitality.

“We used to do credit tickets, and some of our farmers still do,” Mason said. “We used to help farmers until their crop check came in. The store and farmers have fed off each other for years. We wouldn’t make it without farmers, and I think they feel the same.”

Jackson County Farmers Federation (JCFF) board member Clay Kennamer agreed.

“I have been coming here 40 years,” Kennamer said. “This is a community staple.”

As Kennamer and JCFF President Phillip Thompson finished hearty breakfasts, they chatted about black-and-white photos on the walls, generations of Shorty’s customers and, of course, the cattle market.

“Shorty’s gives us a place to go to get food now, but it used to have groceries and hardware,” Kennamer said. “It is still a place for the community to gather. They are like family to us.”

Hollywood Fire Chief Patrick Allen echoed Kennamer.

“Both of my grandmothers used to work here,” said Allen, 35. “This place is one of the fire department’s biggest supporters. We truly can’t thank them enough. They are a huge asset in the community.”

Community support keeps the Hollywood country store going, Rob said.

“This store has always been here, and it’s what people know,” said Rob, as he grilled burgers for a growing lunch crowd. “Our customers are our family, and they act like each other’s family, too.”

Jefferson’s and Shorty’s bring a sense of nostalgia to the generations who visit, Betsy said.

“We believe this is our mission field,” Betsy said. “We believe there is a shortage of love and caring in the community. Where else are you going to stop, get a drink and chips and have someone care about how your day is going?”

Clockwise from top: For decades, Jackson County farmers have been staple customers at Shorty’s, often enjoying breakfast before farm work begins. From left are Jackson County Farmers Federation (JCFF) President Phillip Thompson, Steve Saint and JCFF board member Clay Kennamer; Cassandra Mason shows off Shorty’s credit machine; Shorty Machen’s Grocery & Deli provides breakfast, lunch and supper to Hollywood locals. Father-son duo Aubrey and Rob Machen own and operate the store.

Guest Workers Prosper on Alabama Farms

By Marlee Jackson

Adiverse pool of workers spilled out of trucks, tractors and ATVs at Hunter Trees in late July, converging in the shade for a midmorning break and cool slices of watermelon.

The group included Enrique. Though he speaks Spanish, his comments were interpreted through Hunter Trees’ on-site translator and compliance manager, Tamara Camp.

“We are looking for prosperity,” Enrique said. “We want to do the best for our family even though we are separate.”

Enrique is from Mexico and is one of 16 seasonal, temporary guest workers hired to help operations flow smoothly at the wholesale tree nursery.

The spur-of-the-moment extra respite is just one way Phillip and Will Hunter have built camaraderie for their team. The Talladega County farm’s workforce is comprised of domestic labor and guest workers, like Enrique, hired through the federal H-2A program for agricultural work.

H-2A and H-2B, its sister program for non-agricultural labor, have strict requirements. That includes providing bathroom and clean water facilities every quarter mile in the field, on-farm

housing, transportation, routine breaks and fair wages.

The Alabama Farmers Federation’s Blake Thaxton said employers often take creating a safe environment to the next level. For the Hunters, that includes the home they built for guest workers last year. It has a large living area, a spacious kitchen and dormitory-style bedrooms.

“In so many cases, farmers think of guest workers as family,” said Thaxton, who represents specialty crop and green industry farmers. “I’ve seen families organize birthday parties, crawfish boils and Easter dinners for guest workers. That’s not federally required. It’s just an extra way they care for their folks.”

Cookouts, porch-sitting or off-farm excursions fill workers’ weekends, too. So does rest.

Before guest workers enter the U.S, their guest worker contracts stipulate the specific job they will perform and number of hours they will work. Common jobs include picking vegetables, pruning trees or operating million-dollar machinery.

It’s hard work that pays off.

The Adverse Effect Wage Rate

(AEWR) dictates the lowest amount guest workers can be paid. The more skilled the job, the higher the wage. Alabama’s AEWR is $13.67 an hour.

The state’s minimum wage is $7.25.

To help their Latino labor force feel more comfortable, the Hunters hired Camp in 2022, their first year with guest workers. Will speaks Spanish, but with 16 guest workers, they needed a

go-between.

“We wanted to be comfortable, but we also wanted them to be comfortable,” Phillip said.

Camp manages compliance with a bevy of federal programs that watch out for guest workers’ safety. She texts and talks with the crew often, and conversations range from reminders to drink water to organized safety trainings.

It’s a familial level of care, Thaxton said.

“It’s incredible to visit farms across this state and see the bond farmers have with their team,” he said. “It’s good to know these guys are taken care of.”

This is the second piece in a four-part series about Alabama’s need for guest workers. Read more in the November and March issues of Neighbors.

Guest workers from Penton Farms gathered to celebrate Austin Penton’s birthday this summer. The guest workers and farm family work hand-in-hand picking Chilton County produce each year.

Phillip and Will Hunter organized a midmorning respite for their team this summer, featuring cool watermelon, icy glass-bottled drinks and ice cream.

Guest workers at Green Valley Farms in Shelby County are treated like family and joined in on a farm-wide crawfish boil this summer.

Is Gambling Legal in Alabama?

are called randomly, and players mark the numbers on a card until a certain pattern is achieved. Parimutuel betting is a style of gambling where all bets are placed into one pool; the winner splits that pool after the house takes its cut.

state’s borders?

There are two primary reasons. The first is the adoption of local constitutional amendments. Local amendments have passed in 18 counties and allow certain gambling activities to occur at specific locations within those counties.

Most of these amendments limit the type of gambling allowed to bingo or parimutuel betting on dog and horse races. Bingo is the traditional game where numbers

The second reason gambling exists in Alabama is the federal Indian Gambling Regulatory Act (IGRA). Under the IGRA, Indian nations are allowed to operate gambling facilities on eligible tribal lands up to the same level of gambling a state has authorized. Because Alabama has authorized bingo and parimutuel betting in some places through local constitutional amendments, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians is allowed to engage in bingo and parimutuel betting on tribal properties in Atmore, Wetumpka and Montgomery.

In September 2022, the Alabama Supreme Court held that electronic bingo games in Lowndes and Macon counties were illegal gambling

devices. This bingo closely resembles Las Vegas-style slot machines. The game fell outside the parameters of the traditional game of bingo where some degree of player skill is involved. Therefore, it violated the Alabama Constitution.

Upholding Alabama’s gambling laws requires cooperation of state and local law enforcement. At times, a lack of coordinated efforts has allowed illegal gambling operations to flourish in some areas. Despite these isolated activities, Alabama’s overarching public policy prohibits gambling.

Compiled by the Alabama Farmers Federa on External Affairs Department

The material presented above is for educational purposes only. The content does not constitute legal advice. If readers require speci c advice or ser vices, a lawyer or other professional should be consulted.

It’s time to reserve strawberry plugs for October delivery!

• 50 plugs per tray

• Plugs have an intact root ball

• Plugs establish quickly Best of all Plant plugs in October and harvest sweet strawberries in the Spring!

THE NURSE

Afrozen yogurt joint. I’ve just finished supper. My belt is tight from eating too much pizza.

There are too many flavors to choose from. Triple Dark Peruvian Fudgesicle, Very Berry Quite Contrary, Oreo Delight. Of course, Orange Julius doesn’t taste too shabby.

Then again, artificial orange doesn’t sit well with me. When I was a boy, the doctor gassed me with orange-flavored laughing gas just before tonsil surgery.

All I remember after that is hearing nurses play Righteous Brothers music through a transistor radio while I breathed in orange fumes. Ever since, I have detested Sunkist and orangeflavored gum and can’t hear Unchained Melody without breaking into a sweat.

I’m sampling flavors, and that’s when I see her. She’s 12, maybe 13. She’s with her family. She is small, with red hair. I have a soft spot for redheads.

The girl is feeding her little brother with a spoon. The boy has a cast on one arm and a sling on the other.

“He fell,” the father explains. “He was climbing our gutter on the porch.”

SEPTEMBER 2023 ANNUAL MEETING DATES, TIMES &

LOCATIONS

Winston County | Thursday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m.

American Legion Garrison-Bonds Post 184

60 New Legion Rd., Double Springs

Crenshaw County | Thursday, Sept. 14, 6:30 p.m.

Alfa Service Center

357 S. Forest Ave., Luverne

Dallas County | Tuesday, Sept. 12, 6 p.m.

Alfa Service Center

403 Broad St., Selma

Lowndes County | Thursday, Sept. 14, 6:30 p.m.

Southern Sportsman Lodge

9022 U.S. Hwy. 80 W, Tyler

Monroe County | Monday, Sept. 11, 6:30 p.m.

Monroe County Ag Center

334 Agriculture Dr., Monroeville

Marengo County | Tuesday, Sept. 12, 6:30 p.m.

Alfa Service Center

206 Shiloh St., Linden

He broke one arm and injured his other shoulder. No sooner had he hit the ground than his sister came running to the rescue. As the story goes, she carried her brother indoors, over her shoulder. Big Sister has been caring for Little Brother since.

“I love taking care of people,” the girl tells me. “I’m gonna be a nurse.”

The girl’s mother says her daughter has always wanted to be a nurse. And earlier this year, before Little Brother attempted his solo flight across the Atlantic, the girl got her chance.

It happened when her grandfather was diagnosed with skin cancer. After his invasive surgery, recovery was slow.

So the girl volunteered to live with her grandfather. That meant no hanging out with friends, no sleepovers, no going out for movies or frozen yogurt.

When I ask the girl about it, she shrugs and says, “Sometimes, you just gotta do what you gotta do.”

She changed Grandad’s bandages, cooked breakfast, fixed lunch, dusted furniture and even mowed his lawn.

“That’s when we realized she was special,” says her father. “She came home one day, saying, ‘Dad, I think I wanna be a nurse.’ And I was like, ‘A what? Who is this small adult, and where’d she come from?’”

So tonight, I’m watching this girl feed her brother one mouthful at a time, pausing to dab his chin or tell a joke. She is trying to maintain his spirits, increase his caloric intake and boost morale. Her brother will make a full recovery, of course, and one day, he might even take up rockwall climbing or professional gutter repair.

But until then, he has Big Sister.

When it’s my turn to order, I ask for yogurt-flavor advice from the girl. Sadly, she’s too preoccupied with Little Brother. So I ask Junior himself.

“Get the orange,” says the boy. “That’s my favorite.”

Orange it is.

The family finishes their yogurt. They leave. I see them beneath the glow of the street lamp, everyone holding onto each other like the closing scenes of a “Love Boat” episode.

Sister wraps her arms around her brother and muscles him into a giant SUV. I watch their tail lights disappear. I was going to write about something else tonight, but I’ve changed my mind.

Sometimes, a boy’s gotta do what a boy’s gotta do. ■

YOUR SOYBEANS ARE

You can find soybeans grown in Alabama just about everywhere — your food, your food’s food, your fuel, asphalt, adhesives, motor oil, tires, paints, crayons and more. In fact, even this ad — and the whole magazine — is printed with soy ink. And as your Alabama Soybean Checkoff, we’re always on the job, researching and finding markets for your soybeans to keep this impressive list going on and on. Learn more about the story of soy at unitedsoybean.org/hopper.

IN FACT, YOU’RE READING THEM RIGHT NOW.

is what scoring the right price looks like.

Meet Dave. Dave has Alfa Insurance, and he’s celebrating like he won it all. The truth is, when you save this much money on an auto policy, every day feels like game day. He’s not stressing from the sidelines. That’s someone else’s job. He’s in the zone, catching every play, cheering like there’s no tomorrow. Why? Because Dave’s undefeated on the road, that’s why. AlfaSatisfaction.com

FALL IS FOR PLANTING

By Brian Brown

Fall is a great time to plant trees and shrubs, since the weather is cooler, and plants are much less stressed than in the heat of summer. It’s also a great time to get outside and work without getting soaking wet with sweat. Two of the most important things you should do before planting are taking a soil test and correcting drainage issues.

PERFORM SOIL TEST

A soil test will give you important information on the health of your soil, how to adjust your soil pH and the nutrients your yard may need. Soil test kits are available at local Alabama Cooperative Extension System offices, along with information on how to collect the soil and send it to the Auburn University Soil, Forage and Water Testing Lab. If you’ve already completed a soil test, you’re one step ahead. Follow fertilizing directions recommended from

the results of your soil test as you move forward with planting plans.

Most problems in the landscape have to do with water — or a lack thereof. Correcting drainage issues is a major step in keeping plants healthy. Too much or too little water will exhibit the same symptoms.

Once you’ve found the ideal location for your plant, dig the planting hole two to three times the size of the root ball.

roots. If you skip this step, you may end up with girdled roots, which will lead to decline or eventual death of the plant.

Once the hole has been dug and the root ball has been scarified, place the plant into the hole. In Alabama, many have heavy clay soils, so you may want to plant it a couple inches above the surrounding ground to help with drainage.

Backfill your hole, being sure to

CORRECT DRAINAGE ISSUES SCARIFY THE ROOT BALL

That will give the plant plenty of room to establish a good root system. One of the most important things you can do is not place your new plant too deep in the ground. Make sure you can see the root flare at the base of the tree or shrub, which should be at ground level.

You also want to scarify the root ball. This entails taking the plant out of the container and breaking up the roots. Be sure to cut or break up any roots that are circling. Don’t be afraid of cutting those

eliminate any air pockets that may be there. Water your new plant deeply. It will need to be watered often during its first few weeks.

Avoid fertilizing in the fall, which could result in new growth when we have warm weather. The new, tender growth could be burned by early season freezes. When spring arrives, fertilize plants based on the results of your soil test. If you follow these steps, your new plants will be healthy and thrive.

Hey, family! Football season is finally here.

Tailgating is one of my favorite activities, with or without the tailgate. I have great memories of tailgating before Auburn University football games, but these days, you’re more likely to find me fixing plates from a spread on our big kitchen island while the sounds of football and cheers of friends come from the living room TV just steps away.

Of course, you don’t have to be a football fan to be a fan of tailgating fare. We have plenty of friends who come over for the fellowship and have just as much fun. That’s why I’m sharing recipes that will encourage you to set a date,

Joy’s 3-Ingredient Candied Jalapeno Dip

Prep Time Servings

10 mins 10

Ingredients

1 (8-ounce) jar diced jalapeños

1 cup sugar

2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, softened

Instructions

At least 24 hours before serving, drain jalapeños; add them and the sugar to a medium bowl. Stir to combine. Pour mixture back into the jar and place in the refrigerator. Shake the jar once or twice to make sure the sugar dissolves completely. When ready to serve, place softened cream cheese in a large bowl. Use a mixer to beat until smooth. Drain candied jalapeños, being sure to reserve the syrupy liquid. Add jalapeños to cream cheese, and stir to combine. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of reserved liquid to the mixture to thin out the dip and add flavor. Spoon into a serving bowl, and then serve with assorted crackers.

write out your grocery list and enjoy this time-honored Southern tradition.

First in our lineup: Pretzel Bites. These warm and delicious bites are so good, but the fact that they are made with canned biscuits makes them even better. They’re perfect on their own or paired with your favorite dip.

Speaking of dips, one of my readers submitted a Candied Jalapeño Dip recipe last year that I made the day I received her email. It’s as delicious as it is easy, and I urge you to try this one as soon as possible, too. You won’t regret the decision. It’s a winner!

Keeping with the spirit of sharing recipes from friends and family, I’m featuring a recipe from fellow Alabama

Farmers Federation member Faye Williams. Faye lives in Dale County with her husband, Joe, who raises cattle, peanuts, hay and timber. This Baked Cheese-Sausage Dip placed in the 2009 Heritage Cooking Contest and will make your house smell so good that the whole neighborhood is liable to show up hoping for a taste test.

With crisp fall air not too far off, sports season in full swing and school back in session, it’s time to start entertaining again. I hope these recipes will inspire you to plan your gathering sooner rather than later.

Each day is precious, so let’s spend as many as we can enjoying the blessing of friends and family.

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

Baked Cheese-Sausage Dip

By Faye Williams, Dale County

Prep Time Cook Time

20 mins 45 mins

Ingredients

1 loaf or round of bread from supermarket bakery

1 pound hot bulk pork sausage

1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened

1 (8-ounce) container sour cream

2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese

1 (4.5-ounce) can green chiles

1 large bag corn or tortilla chips

Instructions

Heat oven to 350 F. Hollow out bread to make a bowl. In a large skillet on medium heat, brown sausage and drain grease. To the browned sausage, add cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese and green chiles. Mix well. Spoon mixture into bread bowl and bake on cookie sheet for about 45 minutes. Serve warm with chips.

Canned Biscuit Pretzel Bites

Prep Time Cook Time Makes

15 mins 8 mins 32 bites

Ingredients

1 (16.3-ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough (I use the 8-count Pillsbury Grands! Buttermilk Southern Homestyle)

2 cups warm water

1/4 cup baking soda

4 tablespoons butter, melted Coarse salt

Instructions

Heat oven to 425 F, and line a large baking sheet with parchment or a silicone baking mat.

Cut each biscuit into 4 pieces, and carefully roll each piece into a ball. Use a knife to make a small slit in the top of each ball of dough.

Pour water into a medium bowl, and whisk baking soda in until dissolved.

Dip each dough ball into the water mixture, and place it, slit side up, onto the prepared pan.

Brush dough balls with melted butter, and immediately sprinkle with coarse salt.

Bake 8 to 9 minutes or until deep golden brown. Serve immediately.

Stacey’s Recipe Note

For something different, swap the coarse salt for everything bagel seasoning. For something sweet, you can skip the salt and bake them plain. Then, when they come out of the oven, dip the bites in melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.