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VOLUME 43,
NUMBER 12
A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation
December 2018
_____________________________________
Debra Davis, Editor Marlee Moore, Associate Editor Laura Unger, Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan, Executive Director Jeff Helms, Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell, President, Stanton Rex Vaughn, Vice President/North, Huntsville 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 Donald Hodge, New Market Donald Sewell, Southside Rickey Cornutt, Boaz Joe Anders, Northport Phillip Hunter, Chelsea Joe Lambrecht, Wetumpka Meador Jones, Gallion Bill Cook, Montgomery Steve Stroud, Goshen Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Chris Carroll, Ariton Debbie Roberts, Fayette Ben Maples, Elkmont
18
In This Issue
Neighbors (ISSN 0162-3974) is published monthly by the Alabama Farmers Federation, 2108 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, Alabama 36116 or (334) 288-3900. For information about Alabama Farmers Federation member benefits, visit the website www.AlfaFarmers.org. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Alabama, and additional mailing offices. Printed in the U.S.A.
4
McMillan Honored For Service
7
Caring For Chickens
12 Alabama Landowners Meet
7
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001.
18 Master Merrymakers 25 Ag Foundation Annual Report
MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES: , 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org
32 Festive Christmas Recipes
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com
On The Cover
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.
32
Handmade ornaments crafted by master gardeners in the Montgomery area adorn a Christmas tree at the Alabama Governor’s Mansion. Photo by Mike Moody
www.AlfaFarmers.org A member of American Farm Bureau Federation DECEMBER 2018
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Federation Honors John McMillan With Service To Agriculture Award By Debra Davis
G
rowing up in rural Baldwin County as the son of a sawmill owner and farmer, Alabama Agriculture Commissioner John McMillan learned the value of hard work, determination and relationships. Those standards served him well throughout his life in the private business sector and almost 50 years in the political arena. Known as a leader who can make hard decisions and deliver a tough message with compassion, McMillan’s dedication to Alabama earned him the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Service To Agriculture Award, the organization’s highest honor. Federation President Jimmy Parnell will present McMillan the award during the Federation’s 97th annual meeting Dec. 2 in Montgomery. “I am humbled and truly honored to have been selected for this award,” McMillan said. “The Alabama Farmers Federation has been an organization I’ve turned to for advice and assistance throughout my career. I’ve been fortunate to work with and be around good people all my life. As far as what I’ve accomplished, this
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
award is as much for all of them as it is for me.” McMillan’s political career includes service as a Baldwin County commissioner, state representative, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) commissioner and State Personnel Board member. In 2010, he won his first statewide election as commissioner of the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries. He was reelected in 2014 and was elected state treasurer earlier this year. Parnell described McMillan as a resourceful leader, who used his skills to repair and rebuild the ag commissioner’s office when he was elected in 2010. “When John first took office at the Department of Agriculture, he set a new tone for the services that office would provide,” Parnell said. “He immediately encouraged a higher standard of public service among department employees and cultivated a new vision for the department’s future.” McMillan also formerly served as Alabama Forestry Association vice president where, in 2003, he helped the Federation defeat Amendment 1 — the largest proposed tax increase in Alabama’s history.
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DECEMBER 2018
“He has opposed property tax increases and burdensome environmental regulations,” Parnell said. “Throughout his life, John has been a friend and advocate for rural Alabama.” During his time as ADCNR commissioner, McMillan was instrumental in creating the Alabama Trust Fund, a state trust to preserve proceeds from offshore oil and gas leases. While ag commissioner, he served as president of the Southern Association of State Departments of Agriculture and the Southern United States Trade Association. He also served on the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture board of directors. Besides an enthusiasm for community and public service, McMillan loves hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities. He and his wife, Kathryn, have two sons, William and Murphy. Murphy and wife Beth have two children. n
Above: John McMillan was sworn in as Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Jan. 17, 2011 on the Capitol steps surrounded by family. Below: McMillan enjoys spending time with his family.
“I am humbled and truly honored to have been selected for this award,” McMillan said. “The Alabama Farmers Federation has been an organization I’ve turned to for advice and assistance throughout my career. I’ve been fortunate to work with and be around good people all my life. As far as what I’ve accomplished, this award is as much for all of them as it is for me.”
McMillan, along with Department of Agriculture and Industries staff and volunteers, planted a garden at the State Farmers Market and donated the produce to help feed hungry families. DECEMBER 2018
5
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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Students Flock To
Poultry Project
By Marlee Moore
A
s first-grader Ashton Smith digs in the dirt at Eufaula Primary School (EPS), he’s searching for wiggly worms, the perfect afternoon snack for his school’s latest residents — chickens. The Barbour County school built a chicken coop on its campus this fall to teach students about raising poultry, thanks to a $1,000 grant from the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture. “We’re teaching students the whole life cycle of a chicken,” said physical education assistant Michelle Puckett, who applied for the grant. “We know students will have good memories of something agricultural as adults. It connects DECEMBER 2018
Top Photo: second-graders Kaitlyn Hicks and John Puckett said they enjoy feeding chickens and gathering eggs at Eufaula Primary School. The school received one of nine mini-grants through the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture to enhance their outdoor learning area, which teaches students about poultry. Above: teacher Michelle Puckett helps first-graders Brantley Anderson and Ashton Smith get up close and personal with chickens in the school's courtyard coop area. 7
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
to chicks as they pampered the poultry. Now, the fledgling farmers, from kindergartners to secondgraders, are learning each step of the poultry raising process. “How many days does it take to hatch chicks?” Puckett asked Smith and fellow first-grader Brantley Anderson. “21,” Smith swiftly said. “Yeah, 21!” Anderson echoed. Students take turns feeding and watering the birds. Puckett said they’re excited to gather eggs each morning and have taste-tested eggs. “I’d never tried eggs before,” Smith said. “We tried the whites, just the yolk, and scrambled eggs. I liked them.” Community members and parents flocked to expand the Eufaula Primary School in Barbour County is cracking the poultry code by educating students in their outdoor learning area, thanks to an American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture grant. Kaitlyn Hicks said she and other students enjoy gathering eggs every morning from the school's coop, which houses Wyandotte and Rhode Island Red birds.
kids to where their food comes from.” Over 600 students have learned about the school’s full-grown chickens, a medley of black and white Wyandotte birds and Rhode Island Reds. Students also hatched chicks, such as pastel-shelled Easter Eggers. Smith and his classmates watched as one chick used its egg tooth to punch through the shell, an unforw w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
gettable experience for the 6 year olds. “The chick popped out, and they were so excited,” Puckett said. “Now they know the difference between eggs you buy in a store and eggs that hatch. They know you need a rooster to hatch eggs.” When the birds first roosted on campus, Puckett held a spa day, where students were acclimated 8
chicken coop, too, and teachers vy to take home farm-fresh eggs. For the students, EPS’s poultry project goal is threefold — teach the importance of chickens as a food source, show how chickens help the environment, and demonstrate how farmers provide for consumers. Through the Barbour County Farmers Federation, the school received one of nine grants nationally available from the White-Reinhardt Fund for Education, which funds agricultural literacy projects or expands existing efforts. The Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation (AFAF) contributed $250. “It’s encouraging that county leaders are taking advantage of resources available as members of the American Farm Bureau Federation,” said AFAF Vice President Paul Pinyan. “Eufaula Primary School’s outdoor learning area directly impacts students in Barbour County. It’s our hope that other Alabama communities apply for and benefit from such grants.” n DECEMBER 2018
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Alabama Wiregrass Area Continues Hurricane Recovery By Debra Davis
A
labama farmers and rural landowners are working hard to recover from Hurricane Michael, a Category 4 storm that tore through southeast Alabama, the Florida Panhandle and southwest Georgia Oct. 10. In addition to extensive structural damage, the storm pelted cotton and peanut crops, downed fences, scattered cattle and snapped timber. Henry County farmer Sammy Williams said while crop insurance will help soften the blow, it won’t make up for crops many Wiregrass farmers were expecting to be the best in years. “We’ll have to pick whatever cotton there is in the field for insurance to pay,” said Williams, who farms near Columbia and also raises peanuts and cattle. “Crop insurance is based on a 10-year average and pays 80 percent of that average. This year would have been an above-average crop and a good peanut crop, but the payout will be on the 10-year average. It’s probably going to be a loss of $250,000 in
profits for me on my cotton crop.” Officials with the Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) estimate state timber losses at nearly $20 million, with the most damage in Houston County. AFC aerial surveys indicate over 42,300 forested acres had storm damage. President Donald Trump approved a major disaster declaration for the state Nov. 5. Funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is available in Geneva, Henry, Houston and Mobile counties. To assist farmers, the Alabama Farmers Federation and federal and state officials are working to secure further disaster declarations from Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue. At the Sunbelt Ag Expo Oct. 16 in Moultrie, Georgia, Perdue and Vice President Mike Pence pledged to help farmers recover from the storm. U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service has programs available to help some
Henry County's Sammy Williams, right, shows structural and farm damage from Hurricane Michael to Alabama Farmers Federation Area 8 Organization Director Boyd Deal. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
10
Officials estimate Hurricane Michael caused nearly $20 million in timber losses.
farmers. Other programs could be announced by USDA. To help farmers rebuild, the Federation also established a relief fund. “Farmers in south Alabama received an outpouring of support from neighbors and people across the country,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “Many asked where they can donate to help farmers who’ve lost their crops and barns, so we created a special fund within the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation to accept these gifts.” Farm relief donations are tax deductible and can be made at AlabamaFarmersFoundation.org or send checks payable to Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation to P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, AL 36191. Please designate Hurricane Relief on checks. “Hurricane Michael devastated crops, homes, barns and livelihoods in the Wiregrass,” said Parnell, who is also president of the foundation. “Farmers are resilient, but recovery takes time and money. Alabama farmers are grateful for financial help from friends and supporters — and covet your thoughts and prayers during the rebuilding process.” All funds collected by the Foundation through Nov. 30 will be targeted toward farmer losses not covered by a farmowner policy, crop insurance or disaster relief programs. For more information, contact the Foundation at (334) 612-5525 or email abutts@alfafarmers.org. n DECEMBER 2018
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Alabama Landowners Conference
Honors Stewardship Efforts
Jan and B.J. Johnson of Cherokee County received the Bill Moody Award at the Alabama Landowners Conference Awards Program in Prattville. The award recognizes individuals committed to multipleuse forest management and helping others understand and appreciate the benefits forests provide to landowners and society. The couple received a Joel Kelly framed print depicting the heart of the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association.
Dale County's Andrew Green, right, received the Gary Fortenberry Partnership Award, Southern Region, at the Alabama Landowners Conference Awards Program in Prattville. The award recognizes those who help the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association (ATFA) carry out its mission by building and growing county chapters, empowering and encouraging landowners, or outreach efforts to youth and others With Green is ATFA President Lamar Dewberry.
By Marlee Moore
F
orest-focused organizations joined forces to honor, educate and connect with stewards of the land during the inaugural Alabama Landowners Conference in Prattville Oct. 14-16. Conference partners included the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association (ATFA), Alabama Natural Resources Council (ANRC) and Alabama Tree Farm Committee. “Our goal was to combine three landownerfocused meetings to give time and money back to the landowner,” said ATFA President Lamar Dewberry. “We provided a central forum for landowners to get a quality education, fellowship and learn about wildlife and forestry issues.” Wildlife authority Dan Moultrie of Moultrie Game Feeders and Trail Cameras entertained the crowd of over 200 attendees. Stories touched on the early days of his now-worldwide company, including the trapand-35-millimeter-camera prototype of his Moultrie Mobile game camera, a self-activated camera with over 100 million photos taken to date. “We’d take the roll of film out, reset it and go into Walgreens,” Moultrie said. “The big controversy was w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Henry County's Leigh Peters, center, and William Green of Montgomery County, right, received the Gary Fortenberry Partnership Award, Central Region, at the Alabama Landowners Conference Awards Program in Prattville. They are pictured with ATFA President Lamar Dewberry.
whether you paid for one-hour photography or waited a day. I promise you, that’s the way our game camera started.” At the conference, B.J. and Jan Johnson of Cherokee County received the ATFA’s highest honor, the Bill Moody Award, for their multiple-use forest management. Three individuals received the Gary Fortenberry 12
DECEMBER 2018
Partnership Award for fueling ATFA’s mission through growing chapters, empowering landowners or coordinating outreach. Central Region recipients were ATFA Executive Director William Green and Alabama Forestry Association Landowner Programs Director Leigh Peters. In the Southern Region, wildlife biologist Andrew Green of the Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources was honored. Additionally, Lamar and Felicia Dewberry of Clay County received the ANRC’s W. Kelly Mosley Environmental Award. The Helene Mosley Memorial TREASURE Forest Award was presented to Joan and Mike Newman of Coffee County, as well as Robert Amason Sr. and Robert Amason Jr. of Pickens County. Regional Outstanding Forestry Planning Committee Awards were given to Butler, Cullman and Walker counties. Cullman County’s Stan and Suzanne Woods were named Alabama’s Tree Farmers of the Year and will compete in the regional contest. The Tree Farm Committee also honored Brad Nail of Walker County with the Tree Inspector of the Year Award, while Todd Langston of Jackson County received the Alabama Tree Farm Doug Link Leadership Award. Landowners sharpened skills during sessions focused on passing land to the next generation, forest management, endangered species and more. They also toured ArborGen Hardwood Nursery and the Alabama
DECEMBER 2018
Dan Moultrie, center, founder of Moultrie, a leading game feeder and camera manufacturer, was the keynote speaker for the Alabama Landowners Conference. He is shown with ATFA President Lamar Dewberry of Clay County and ATFA Executive Director William Green.
Wildlife Federation’s historic Lanark property. ATFA officers for 2019 were instated during the meeting. Gary Cole of Monroe County is president, while Mark Finley of Winston County will serve as vice president. Wilcox County’s Jamestican Parham is secretary-treasurer. The ATFA is a partner of the Alabama Farmers Federation. n
13
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y l l a T inal Closes Chapter As FChannell
Federation Chief Financial Officer By Debra Davis
T
errie Channell made her final tally for the Alabama Farmers Federation (AFF) Nov. 30, when she retired as chief financial officer (CFO) for the state’s largest farm organization. Channell, 57, began her career with the Federation as a bookkeeper in 1984 and later was promoted to assistant controller of Alfa Services and the Federation before being named CFO in 2000. “My grandfather raised cotton and dairy cattle, but it wasn’t until I came to work at the Federation that I realized the important role this organization has in improving the lives of farmers and all Alabamians,” said Channell, an Autauga County native and Auburn University at Montgomery
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
graduate. “I had never connected how the decisions made by our elected officials impact farmers and other small businesses.” As CFO, Channell directed all accounting functions for the Federation, Alfa Services, ELECT, Creative Consultants Inc. and FarmPAC. She also supervised accounting for seven commodity checkoff funds; the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation; Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association; and the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association. Channell said she especially enjoyed working with Alabama Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC), where she was on the trustees and steering committees. 14
She is also secretarytreasurer for the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation. Additionally, Channell is an executive committee member and finance committee chair of the River Region United Way. Federation President Jimmy Parnell said Channell has a reputation for running one of the best accounting departments among associations. “Terrie makes sure the management team is in compliance, and we have a long history of clean audits,” Parnell said. “Our auditors are amazed by her ability to keep track of more than a dozen sets of books and to recall details about the financial operations of the Federation spanning three decades. We will miss her work ethic, knowledge and commitment to accuracy in everything she does.” Personal relationships with her coworkers and farmers across the state are among Channell’s fondest career memories. “Most of all, I’ve enjoyed the relationships with my coworkers, particularly those in the accounting and membership departments. They work hard every day to help make the Federation run smoothly, and they never forget the work they do is for our members.” Throughout her life, Channell said her faith has guided her. “The most important thing to me is I know the Lord is my savior because all through my career I could see His hand in my life,” she said. “Through challenges of life and work, He always guided me.” Channell, who lives in Deatsville, said she’s looking forward to a new chapter in her life, including volunteer work and spending more time with her dogs — two English Field Cockers and a rambunctious golden retriever. “My career has been an amazing journey,” she said. “I’ve been able to travel and see a lot of things, and I’ve met a lot of wonderful people. I couldn’t have asked for anything better.” n DECEMBER 2018
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he looked like someone’s sweet granny. She stood on her porch watching me paint the house next door. Her hair was flawless white. She wore pearls, lipstick, and a holiday sweater with sequins. And since God gave me the natural gift of running my mouth, I found a way to break the ice. “Chilly weather we’re having,” I said, using laser sharp observational skills. But she didn’t answer, she just went back inside. “Geez,” said my pal. “You must’a scared her.” “I was just being friendly.” “Yeah well, friendly or not, you look like an escaped convict with all that hair.” But as it happened, I hadn’t frightened her. A few minutes later, she returned holding a thermos of hot cocoa. It took two seconds for the ex-convicts to slide down their ladders. She poured two Styrofoam mugs. The hot cups felt good in our cold hands. The first sip was god-awful. Her instant cocoa tasted like chalkwater and baked pickles. The packets must’ve been sitting in her pantry since mid 40s. Anyway, we talked with her. She told us her husband had died. She missed him. Then, she asked if we’d be interested in helping her with odd jobs. “No ma’am,” my partner said. “Our boss wouldn’t let us do that. We only do renovations.” She went on, “All I want are some
limbs cut and some Christmas lights hung.” My partner drained his cup. “Sorry.” We thank-you-ma’amed her, and got to work. When the sun lowered, I cleaned paintbrushes at the faucet and looked through the the woman’s lit up window. She was clipping coupons at her kitchen table. That night, my wife asked how my day went. So I told her about the woman, the instant cocoa dating back to the Second World War, and how lonely she looked. “And you didn’t offer to HELP her?” my wife said. The ex-convict shrugged his dumb, hairy shoulders. Early the next morning, my wife yanked off my bed covers. She was already bundled in flannel, stocking cap, hunting boots, and scarf. “Get dressed,” she said, using my truck keys as a weapon. “But honey, it’s Saturday.” “Too bad.” A few hours later, we were driving through a North Florida subdivision, listening to Bing Crosby sing about snow. I threw the truck into park. Before I could say anything, my wife was already traipsing the sidewalk. The old woman answered the door. “Merry Christmas, ma’am,” said my wife, pointing to my truck—which was loaded with pinestraw, chainsaws, and ladders. “We’re here for hot cocoa.” We didn’t leave until sundown. They broke the mold when they made that woman. n
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Columnist and novelist Sean Dietrich shares tales of common people, the human spirit, traditional regional music and life in the American South through his podcast series at SeanDietrich.com.
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Master Gardeners Help Make
Christmas Merry By Debra Davis
L
At Governor’s Mansion
eaves, feathers, twigs, cotton, okra, moss and seeds — those ingredients and more help make the merriest of Christmases for those attending the annual Alabama Governor’s Mansion Christmas Candlelight Tours the first three Mondays in December. The Monday Morning Mansion Garden Group (MMMGG) began creating a popular attraction three years ago when the volunteers were asked to decorate one of several trees that adorn the governor’s mansion and Farley-Hill House located next door. “We use just about anything to make ornaments,” said Prattville’s Jane McCarthy, a master gardener and MMMGG volunteer. “I can’t really tell you where the ideas for ornaments come from. There are several of us who’ve been making
our own ornaments for years. Inspiration comes from everywhere. It’s hard for me to walk around outside and not look for things to use.” MMMGG’s artistic, inventive gardeners hail from the Autauga County Master Gardener Association, Central Alabama Master Gardener Association (CAMGA) in Elmore County and the Capital City Master Gardener Association in Montgomery. For its inaugural decorating task, the group decorated a wisteria vine tree in the mansion’s sunroom. Hand-painted gourds and other natural nuggets highlighted that tree. Last year, they decorated
a fir tree in the Farley-Hill House library. It was adorned with all-natural ornaments. “A lot of the ornaments are made from things we find in our yards,” said McCarthy, a retired horticulturist formerly employed by Maxwell Air Force Base. “Leaves make beautiful angel wings. Lichen makes a delicate collar around the angel’s neck, and Spanish moss makes her hair. Her body might be a pod of okra or a pine cone.” The group of master gardeners began volunteering at the mansion in October 2013 after McCarthy approached former first lady Dianne Bentley about proper pruning and
Governor’s Mansion Christmas Candlelight Tours
Admission: Free Dates: Dec. 3, 10, 17 5:30-7:30 p.m. Address: 1142 South Perry Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 More Info: 334-834-3022 ext. 3
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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DECEMBER 2018
Master gardener volunteers made topiaries and Christmas tree ornaments to display in the FarleyHill House dining room as part of the governor’s mansion candlelight tour. From left are Amanda Borden, Sandy Rosamond, Jane McCarthy, Linda Cater, Scott Knight and Anne Carr.
weeding in the mansion’s gardens. “It was a big task, but our group loved the idea of helping make our state mansion’s gardens beautiful,” McCarthy said. Each Monday, four to six volunteers typically show up to prune, pull weeds or plant flowers. “Our group was thrilled when we were asked to decorate a tree the first year,” McCarthy said. “Then when we came back last year, we really tried to make our ornaments special. Some of our group served as docents. People kept stopping during the tour wanting to know where to buy the ornaments on our tree.” Some guests were disappointed when they learned the ornaments weren’t for sale. “But I did tell them how they could make them,” McCarthy said smiling. “With some imagination, a hot glue gun, some wire and patience, they’re not that hard to make.” This year, the group will have a larger tree in the Farley-Hill House dining room. Sandy Rosamond of Wetumpka is a CAMGA member and mansion volunteer. Decorating a Christmas tree seen by thousands of visitors is exciting, she said. “We have so much fun making the decorations, and everyone has different talents when it comes to making ornaments,” Rosamond said. “We’re especially excited DECEMBER 2018
because we’re going to make topiaries for some of the tables this year.” In addition to decorations at the mansion and Farley-Hill House, visitors can enjoy live choir performances and sample Alabama-made goods at the gift shop. Guests also can listen to live music performed by different children’s choirs each night on the mansion staircase. Admission is free, and tickets are available at the gift shop at 30 Finley Ave. in Montgomery across the street from the mansion’s side entrance. Mansion Tour Coordinator Nicole Owens said there will be 11 trees decorated in the mansion and eight in the Farley-Hill House. Decorating and opening the mansion each year at Christmas is a special experience, she said. “This is the people’s home, and we want the people of Alabama to see it and enjoy it at Christmas,” Owens said. “The tour is familyoriented, festive and free. It’s a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.” n
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w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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DECEMBER 2018
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Preparation Key
To Poultry Producers Managing Severe Weather By Justin Miller
S
evere weather preparation is an option for some, but mandatory for others. Farmers cannot afford to be caught without plans and being prepared for severe weather. Poultry producers, specifically, must plan for damage to houses, power outages, feed shortages and more. “Emergency preparation is an ongoing effort. It includes upkeep and maintenance of backup systems, generators, fuel supply and alarm systems,” said Dennis Brothers, an Alabama Extension agricultural economics specialist. Brothers, who specializes in poultry economics, said when severe weather threatens, growers must be aware and near their farms to handle unforeseen problems. Severe weather includes more than tornadoes and thunderstorms. Producers must prepare for freezing temperatures that could possibly slow or stop deliveries of needed supplies. “One problem we routinely see in both cold weather and storm events is the possibility of limited fuel supplies. Fuel storage becomes a problem when farms are in long periods of generator runs,” Brothers said. “Knowing the generator fuel usage under load and having backup fuel supplies can be critical.” Producers must also consider how to feed their flocks during these times. It is important to
DECEMBER 2018
evaluate feed supply levels and decide if it is necessary to take feedsaving measures. “If situations occur where growers anticipate feed delivery issues, producers can implement practices to slow down consumption,” Brothers said. “The company’s service technicians or integrator management team will coordinate those measures with the grower.” Even in severe weather, producers must maintain comfortable living conditions for flocks. Producers use heaters during cold months to keep the houses at set temperatures. This helps create an environment where the birds grow most efficiently. Producers must monitor heaters and ensure they’re always working properly. During warmer weather, producers have to keep flocks cool. Extremely high temperatures can make living conditions difficult for birds. “Houses have a series of vents and ventilation fans to create cooler temperatures inside the houses,” Brothers said. “Producers also use evaporative cooling pads to maintain correct temperatures.” Producers must always be
23
ready to protect their flocks. Backup equipment should be readily available at a moment’s notice. According to Brothers, assuming all is well equals failure. “In a modern commercial poultry house, power loss for as little as 20 minutes can cause significant production losses and bird mortality,” Brothers said. “Backup systems on the farms can handle these situations, but only if producers perform proper maintenance, test the system under real life stresses and monitor it closely while in operation.” The Alabama Cooperative Extension System Emergency Handbook is a great source of information on preparation and recovery in times of severe weather. The handbook is available online at aces.edu. n
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
AlabamaFarmersFoundation.org
2018 “To support and advance agriculture in the state of Alabama through education and research; increase awareness of agriculture in Alabama through public programs and activities; improve and expand agricultural services and products for the benefit of all citizens and to establish and maintain high standards in agriculture.”
board of directors
Our Mission
Annual Report
ag literacy
Terrie Channell Rhonda Hughes Lester Killebrew Keith McCurdy Cheryl Mitchell Jimmy Parnell Paul Pinyan Mahlon Richburg Raleigh Wilkerson
AFAF hosted the annual Alabama Ag in the Classroom Summer Institute for about 80 kindergarten through sixth-grade teachers. They toured farms, participated in workshops and received materials to use in the classrooms. Also, the book “John Deere, That’s Who” and companion educator guides were shared with 1,000 elementary public and private school libraries.
Support Ag Education. Purchase an Ag Tag today! DECEMBER 2018
25
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
In Memoriam
foundation fundraisers
Honoring Alabama Farmers Federation leaders we lost in 2018, with prayers of healing and strength for their loved ones. Mabry Covin
January 2, Conecuh County, 82
Mildred Gargis “Mittie” Isbell January 3, Colbert County, 85
Thomas Smith
January 16, Chilton County, 87
Herman Majors
January 20, Dallas County, 78
Tilton Louis Register
January 31, Geneva County, 86
John “Bubba” Trotman
February 3, Montgomery County, 90
Jimmy Durbin
March 6, Chilton County, 74
The AFAF Skeet Shoot at Selwood Farm raised more than $37,000. Thirty-six teams competed in the third-annual event.
Prather Slay
March 15, Chambers County, 92
Mary Frank “Frankie” Ponder March 17, Calhoun County, 96
John Neighbors
March 23, Tallapoosa County, 88
Eric Obie Cates Jr.
April 7, Butler County, 99
Tyler McClendon
April 17, Walker County, 30
Orval Pounders
May 16, Franklin County, 93
Richard Earl Saxon Jr. July 7, Etowah County, 83
Carolyn Weatherly
July 28, Marion County, 78
Rex Boutwell
August 3, Coffee County, 80
David William Good
Dennis Maze of Blount County enjoys Conecuh Sausage at the AFAF Breakfast during the 2017 Alabama Farmers Federation (AFF) annual meeting. The format was changed in 2018 to honor leaders who passed during the year. (See Memoriam list at left for this year’s honorees.)
August 4, Coosa County, 76
Mary Jo Hodges
August 11, Marshall County, 72
S.O. “Bud” Kemp
August 12, Calhoun County, 97
Charles Turner
September 1, Geneva County, 77
Elizabeth “Nell” Conner
September 3, Marshall County, 92
Kenneth Eldred Spruiel
September 16, Lamar County, 85
T.L. Conner
September 19, Marshall County, 96
L.T. Hataway
October 26, Montgomery County, 86 w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Live and silent auctions at the AFF annual meeting raised $16,485 for the Foundation. The Young Farmers Leadership Conference auction raised $10,830. 26
income statement Income Unrestricted Contributions Ag in the Classroom Revenue Ag Tag Revenue Scholarships Jr. Beef Expo Unrealized Gain Interest Income Annual Skeet Shoot State Dairy Show State Pork Show Total Income Operating Expenses Ag in the Classroom Education Expense Jr. Beef Expo Ag Scholarship Luncheon Scholarship Expense State Dairy Show Bank Fees Office Supplies Legal & Audit Fees Miscellaneous Expense Postage Sponsorship Expense Ag Tag Advertising Scholarship Supplies Advertising Expense Investment Fees Meetings Annual Skeet Shoot Contributions Centennial Study Total Operating Expenses Net Income
$496,597.65 500.00 244,319.61 61,750.00 148,604.30 (44,990.49) 30,500.14 59,532.92 1,770.00 6,975.00 $1,005,559.13 $122,881.96 2,500.00 134,619.90 6,302.18 100,758.54 4,916.31 838.13 528.18 2,300.00 10,546.56 702.67 85,877.19 3,620.00 9.60 7,130.24 6,462.06 1,066.78 21,688.27 3,350.00 73,903.82 $590.002.39 $415,556.74 DECEMBER 2018
activities & accomplishments
AITC mini grants
Alabama Ag in the Classroom awarded $9,005.60 in mini grants for agricultural education.
Allie Corcoran, Barbour County Extension “John Deere, That’s Who” Books and Educator Guides for Barbour County Ag Day Rachel Chastain Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind AIDB/JTA Ag Center Classroom Supplies Kathy DeFoor, Eva School, Morgan County Eva School Ag Day Delilah Thrash, Pike County Healthy Eating
AFAF and county Federations awarded 79 scholarships to students from 55 counties majoring in agriculture and forestry at Auburn University. From left are Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, scholarship recipient Logan Chappell from Madison County, Lamar County Farmers Federation President Will Gilmer and Auburn University College of Agriculture Dean Paul Patterson. Randolph County’s Breann Noles, center, showed the Grand Champion Market Hog at the 2018 Alabama State Youth Swine Show. She is pictured with judge Chris Wehmer, right, and AFF Executive Director Paul Pinyan. The champion was selected from 135 market hogs exhibited by 53 FFA and 4-H students from across the state.
La’Paul Blackmon, Wilcox County Extension School and Neighborhood Garden
Rachel Mims Jemison Intermediate School, Chilton County Tree ID Trail and Outdoor Classroom Robin Hyche, Cedar Park Elementary, Selma Sensory Garden
Cullman Soil and Water Conservation District Farm Simulator for Ag Trailer Seniqa Smith, Clark Elementary, Selma Farm Writing Project Allie Marques University Charter School, Livingston Chicken Yard Project
Lanie Williamson, Cullman City Primary School Earth Day with North Alabama Agriplex Marjory Johnson Macon East Montgomery Academy Supplies for Outdoor Classroom
Gina Webb Welti Elementary School, Cullman County Outdoor Classroom Signs
Loutrina Staley After School Program Alabama A & M University FoodAg STEM Afterschool Program Jean Davis Pine Level Elementary School, Autauga County Pine Level Outside Gardens Stephanie Guffey DAR Middle School, Marshall County Operation Tower Garden
Rodney Owens, Escambia County High School Community Garden Dee Lambert Woodland High School, Randolph County Up-Cycle Existing Greenhouse Into a Barn
Ashlyn Ruf of Limestone County, left, exhibited the Grand Champion Market Steer at the Junior Beef Expo (JBE), and Dow Boyd of Coffee County exhibited the Grand Champion Heifer. The Foundation and AFF expanded their leadership role with JBE this year including an updated arena with new sponsorship signage, improved lighting and enhanced prize money. DECEMBER 2018
27
Brenda Powell Valley Grande Elementary, Dallas County “We Can Read” Project to Teach Children to Love to Read and Love Agriculture
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
contributors ACES Extension Alabama 4-H Club Foundation, Inc. Alabama Ag Credit Alabama Angus Association Alabama Beef Cattle Improvement Assn., Inc. Alabama Catfish Producers Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Alabama Cattlemen’s Foundation Alabama Charolais Association Alabama Farm Credit Alabama Farmers Cooperative, Inc. Alabama Farmers Federation Alabama Foundation Future Farmers of America Alabama Junior Shorthorn Association Alabama Municipal Electric Authority Alabama Peanut Producers Association Alabama Power Company Alabama Santa Gertrudis Association Alabama Simmental Association Alfa Insurance Co. Alice Lawler American Angus Association Angie Bradwell AT&T Autauga County Cattlemen’s Association Autauga County Farmers Federation Autauga County Young Farmers Committee Baldwin County Farmers Federation Baldwin County Young Farmers Committee Barbour County Farmers Federation Barbour County Young Farmers Committee Barry Rogers Beck’s Turf, Inc. Bibb County Farmers Federation Bibb County Young Farmers Committee Billy Mullins Blount County Cattleman’s Association Blount County Farmers Federation Blount County Young Farmers Committee Boyd Cattle LLC Brian Crow Bullock County Farmers Federation Butler County Farmers Federation Butler County Young Farmers Committee Calhoun County Farmers Federation Calhoun County Young Farmers Committee Chambers County Farmers Federation Charles V. Walker Cherokee County Farmers Federation Chilton County Farmers Federation Chilton County Young Farmers Committee Choctaw County Farmers Federation Chris McCool Clarke County Farmers Federation Clay County Cattlemen’s Association Clay County Farmers Federation
Clayton Spencer Cleburne County Farmers Federation Coffee County Cattleman’s Association Coffee County Farmers Federation Colbert County Cattleman’s Association Colbert County Farmers Federation Conecuh County Farmers Federation Coosa County Farmers Federation Covington County Farmers Federation Covington County Young Farmers Committee Crenshaw County Farmers Federation Crenshaw County Jr. Cattlemen’s Association Crenshaw County Young Farmers Committee Cullman County Farmers Federation Cullman County Young Farmers Committee Dairy Farmers of America Dale County Farmers Federation Dale County Young Farmers Committee Dallas County Cattlemen’s Association Dallas County Farmers Federation Darrel B. Maples Dekalb County Farmers Federation Dekalb County Young Farmers Committee Dell Hill Diamond M Farm Donald Hodge Elmore County Farmers Federation Elmore County Young Farmers Committee Escambia County Farmers Federation Escambia County Young Farmers Committee Etowah County Farmers Federation Etowah County Young Farmers Committee Farm Bureau Bank Fayette County Farmers Federation First South Farm Credit Franklin County Farmers Federation Fred Bowman Bear, Jr. Fred Helms Fuller Supply Co., Inc. Garrett Coliseum Redevelopment Corp. Garrison Farm & Home Garry Henry Garth D. Bowman Geneva County Farmers Federation George Jeffcoat Great Southern Wood Preserving, Inc. Greene County Farmers Federation Greensboro Farmers Co-Op Greenway Plants, Inc. Hale County Farmers Federation Hale County Young Farmers Committee Henry County Farmers Federation Hester Howell Houston County Farmers Federation J & R Feed Services J. Everette Stewart Jackson County Cattlemen’s Association
Jackson County Farmers Federation Jackson County Young Farmers Committee Jackson Thornton & Co., P.C. Jake Harper Janice or Tracy Eason Jay Mitchell Jefferson County Farmers Federation Jerry Allen Newby Jimmy Holliman - Circle H Cattle Farm Jimmy Holliman - Next Step Cattle Co. Jimmy Jimmerson Jimmy Parnell Joe Anders Joe Lambrecht Joseph Lloyd Fine Joseph Robinson, Jr. Kirk Smith L A Boyd & Son Farm Lamar County Farmers Federation Lauderdale County Farmers Federation Lawrence County Farmers Federation Lawrence County Young Farmers Committee Lee County Cattlemen’s Association Lee County Farmers Federation Lee County Young Farmers Committee Leto Farms Limestone County Cattleman’s Association Limestone County Farmers Federation Limestone County Young Farmers Committee Lowndes County Cattlemen’s Association Lowndes County Farmers Federation Lowndes County Young Farmers Committee Macon County Cattlemen’s Association Macon County Farmers Federation Madison County Farmers Federation Mahlon & Mary Richburg Marengo County Farmers Federation Marion County Farmers Federation Marshall County Cattleman’s Association Marshall County Farmers Federation Marshall County Young Farmers Committee Max Bozeman, Jr. Meador Jones Mike Tidwell Mobile County Farmers Federation Mobile County Young Farmers Committee Monroe County Farmers Federation Monroe County Young Farmers Committee Montgomery County Farmers Federation Morgan County Farmers Federation National Christian - Mr. & Mrs. John Harmon Nell Miller Paul Pinyan Penala Farm LLLP - Sid & Susan Nelson Perry County Farmers Federation Perry County Young Farmers Committee Phillip Thompson
Pickens County Famers Federation Pickens County Farmers Federation Pike County Cattleman’s Foundation Pike County Farmers Federation PowerSouth Priester’s Pecan R. Keith Thompson Raleigh Wilkerson Ralph Golden Randolph County Cattleman’s Association Randolph County Farmers Federation Randolph County Young Farmers Committee Rhonda Hughes Rick Pate Ricky Lowery River Bank & Trust Robert Poultry, Inc. Russell County Cattlemen’s Association Russell County Farmers Federation Selwood Farm Inc. Shelby County Farmers Federation Shelby County Young Farmers Committee Sheryl Buckner Southeast Select Sires Southeastern Livestock Exposition St. Clair County Farmers Federation St. Clair FFA Alumni Steve Dunn Stocker Supply Sumter County Farmers Federation Sumter County Young Farmers Committee SunSouth Sysco Corporation Taber & Grace Ellis Talladega County Farmers Federation Tallapoosa County Cattlemen Association Tallapoosa County Farmers Federation The Bridge Builders of Alabama LLC Timothy B. Blackmon Tommy Martin Troy Bank & Trust Co. Trustmark Bank Tuscaloosa County Farmers Federation Tuscaloosa County Young Farmers Committee Twizted Fitterz, LLC. US Food V. Smith - Hickory Hill Farm Walker County Farmers Federation Walker County Young Farmers Committee Washington County Farmers Federation Webster, Henry, Bradwell, Cohan, Speagle & DeShazo, P.C. Wells Fargo Wilcox County Farmers Federation Will Gilmer William Harris Winston County Farmers Federation
Donate Online at alabamafarmersfoundation.org Support the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation
Make Checks Payable to: Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191 Name _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City ________________________State ____ Zip ________ Phone __________________ Email __________________________________________ In Memory / Honor of: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Gifts to the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. For questions, contact Amanda Butts, (334) 612-5525 or abutts@alfafarmers.org. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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DECEMBER 2018
By Lois Chaplin
T
here is a majestic tree not usually found in planted landscapes, although it could be where there’s room. An American beech is often within sight in forests adjoining many suburban and country homes, especially near streams, on slopes and in cool places like ravines. Keep a watchful eye and you may see an American beech, which is hard to miss as it shines in winter. Its lingering, parchmentlike leaves seem to float in the air reflecting sunbeams like nothing else in the woods this time of year. I like what the late Donald Culross Peattie wrote in A Natural History of Trees, “A beech is, in almost any landscape where it appears, the finest tree to be seen. There
are many taller tees and many that attain to moments of showier glory… but, taken in all seasons and judged by all that makes a tree noble — strength combined with grace, balance, longevity, hardiness, health — the beech is all that we want a tree to be.” In the fall, leaves of an American beech turn golden before they drop. Those on the bottom branches tend to hang on like curled parchment to give the tree its typical winter appearance. Beechnuts are present until eaten by small mammals, deer, black bear, fox, turkey, woodpeckers and other birds. Once a favorite host of the now extinct passenger pigeon, John James Audubon wrote about flocks landing on beech trees in
such numbers that limbs would break. American beech is harder to propagate and produce in a nursery than many other trees, so it’s not often sold in commercial nurseries. The best chance to find one is at a nursery that specializes in native trees or by ordering online. Sometimes nurseries can order items that aren’t regularly stocked. The American beech likes moist soils, especially along streams and bottomlands. However, any spot with adequate moisture will support it, including a garden with adequate space. It typically grows 50 to 70 feet tall but can be twice that in a good spot since it can live 300-400 years. In the shade of a forest, beech forms a long, straight, massive trunk that rises up into a small, dense crown of foliage. In sunnier, more open sites, the trunk is shorter but still massive with a huge, widely spreading crown. In the woods, beech often grows in groves because its roots sprout new suckers. Because of its spreading, shallow root system, it’s best not to grow anything under a beech; just let fallen leaves provide ground cover each year. A beech tree is recognizable by its smooth, elegant gray bark. The base of the tree might be described as looking like an elephant’s leg. Its bark tempts passers by to carve a name or initials, but the practice creates a wound that can give diseases an entry, so try to resist the temptation. A grand tree not just in Alabama but throughout the East from Wisconsin to North Florida, this is the season to best appreciate American beech, whether from afar or in your own landscape. 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
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DECEMBER 2018
Pecan Snowball Cookies Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Makes 3 dozen
Ingredients 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 cup powdered sugar, plus more for coating 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/4 cups finely chopped pecans
Instructions Preheat the oven to 350 F and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. In a large bowl (or in the bowl of your stand mixer), cream the butter and sugar. Add the vanilla and salt, and mix well. Slowly add the flour, mixing well after each addition. A thick dough will form. Add chopped pecans. Mix well. Scoop 1 tablespoon of the dough, roll it into a ball, and place it on the cookie sheet. Continue until all the dough has been formed into balls. Place them on the cookie sheet about 1 inch apart. Bake 15 to 18 minutes. Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Cool completely, then coat them in powdered sugar again.
I
’ve always said that in the South, cooking is one way we tell people we love them. Never is that more prevalent than around the holidays. We head into the kitchen with armfuls of sugar, pecans and spices, ready to share our love through cakes, cookies, candies and more. Each year, we gather as a family a few weeks before Christmas to make a collection of sweets and treats to share with family and friends. It’s become one of my most treasured times of the year with the folks closest to me. This month, I have the privilege of sharing with y’all the festive recipes that have become staples for us each Christmas. One of my favorite treats this
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time of year is my Pecan Snowball Cookies. The buttery shortbread cookies are studded with pecans and coated in fluffy powdered sugar. They look and taste just like the holidays. My mom’s Martha Washington Candy is a family favorite. She has made this candy every Christmas for as long as I can remember. She’d pull out the exact same giant white bowl every year and turn out untold numbers of these little morsels of deliciousness. They take a little extra effort, but they’re worth every bit of it. Chewy Gingerbread Cookies with Eggnog Glaze and Brown Sugar Pecan Pound Cake are both newer additions to the Little Family holiday menu, but both are 32
worthy of inclusion. I usually end up making two to three batches of the gingerbread cookies over the course of the holidays, and the pound cake makes a perfect gift to share with neighbors. Regardless of what ends up on your table, I hope the holidays find you spending time with the people you love the most. Merry Christmas, y’all! 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. DECEMBER 2018
Brown Sugar Pecan Pound Cake
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 1 hr 30 mins
Servings 12 to 16
Ingredients 1 1/2 cups butter, room temperature 2 cups firmly packed light brown sugar 1/2 cup white sugar 5 large eggs, room temperature 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans
Chewy Gingerbread Cookies With Eggnog Drizzle Prep Time 30 mins
Instructions
Cook Time 12 mins
Makes 2 dozen
Ingredients
Heat the oven to 325 F and grease and flour a 14.5-cup Bundt pan. Using a mixer, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy — about 5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir the flour and salt together. Carefully add the dry ingredients a little at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla and pecans, and stir to combine. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes — or until golden brown and just pulling away from the edges of the pan. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean. Allow to cool for about 15 minutes in the pan before inverting on a serving platter.
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 1/2 cups sugar, divided 1 large egg 1/4 cup molasses 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Stacey’s Recipe Notes
For the drizzle: 2 cups powdered sugar 6 tablespoons prepared eggnog 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
I find pound cakes need to “age” for best flavor and texture. Resting overnight is ideal.
Instructions
Martha Washington Candy
Prep Time 45 mins
Makes 6 dozen
Ingredients
Instructions In a large bowl, combine the powdered sugar, butter, sweetened condensed milk and vanilla. Work the mixture with your hands until it is well combined. Add the coconut and pecans. Mix well. Roll the mixture into 3/4-inch balls. Chill at least 30 minutes. Melt the almond bark using directions on the package. Using a large fork, dip the chilled balls into the melted chocolate, tapping the fork on the edge of the bowl to remove excess chocolate. Place the coated candies on wax paper to cool.
Stacey’s Recipe Notes The amount of almond bark depends on how thick you coat the candies. Two 24-ounce packages is more than enough. DECEMBER 2018
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Kim Box Photography
8 cups powdered sugar 1/2 cup butter, softened 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups sweetened flake coconut 4 cups chopped pecans 2 (24-ounce) packages chocolate-flavored almond bark candy coating
Preheat the oven to 350 F, and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Beat the butter with a mixer until smooth. Add 1 cup of sugar and cream together. Add the egg and mix well. Add the molasses and mix well. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger and cloves. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet. Mix well. Pour the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar in a small bowl. Drop the dough, using a cookie scoop, by 1 1/2 tablespoon dollops into the bowl of sugar and roll around to coat. Place dough on the cookie sheet about 3 inches apart. Bake 12-14 minutes. Cool on the pan 5-10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Once the cookies are cool, make the drizzle by mixing the powdered sugar, eggnog and nutmeg together in a medium bowl. Add extra powdered sugar or eggnog to get it to a thick drizzling consistency. Pour the drizzle into a zip-top bag and seal. Cut a small opening in one corner of the bag, and drizzle the glaze over the cookies. Allow to harden. Store in an airtight container. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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