Young Farmers Shine
March/Spring 2025 | Volume 50 | Number 2
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
Mark Byrd | Vice President | North, Danville
Jon Hegeman Vice President | Central, Anniston
Chris Carroll | Vice President Southeast, Ariton
Jake Harper | Vice President | Southwest, Camden
Steve Dunn Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen
DIRECTORS
Dorman Grace | Jasper Jeff Peek | Athens
David Bailey | Dawson
Darrell Lee | Addison
Joe Anders Northport
Phillip Hunter | Birmingham
Mahlon Richburg Auburn
Tommy Martin | Moundville
Bill Cook Montgomery
Trip Horne | Louisville
Mark Kaiser | Daphne
Jerry Peak | Chancellor
Rachel Chastain | Talladega Denzil Dees | Epes
Neighbors (ISSN 0162-3974) is published monthly by the Alabama Farmers Federation, 2108 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, Alabama 36116 or (334) 288-3900. For information about Alabama Farmers Federation member benefits, visit the website www.alfafarmers.org. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Alabama, and additional mailing offices. Printed in the U.S.A.
POSTMASTER
Send address changes to Neighbors P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001
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
| Ag Law & You: Why Wills Are
for Landowners
| TV Legend Fred Hunter Joins Simply Southern 18 | Snowy Scenes From Alabama Farms 23 | Rules of Thumb for Growing Roses 17 On
The Cover
Emmanuel Bankston’s roots run deep in Farm Bureau. He’s been an active member in three state organizations — South Carolina Farm Bureau, Louisiana Farm Bureau and, now, the Alabama Farmers Federation.
Photo By Maggie Edwards
By Marlee Jackson
Mark Byrd rarely meets a stranger.
“I love talking to people,” said Byrd, who farms in Morgan County. “I love meeting people; I love sharing my story; and I love to hear other people’s stories.”
That warm disposition has helped Byrd cultivate a network of farmerfriends nearly as deep as the gospel singer’s low, bass voice.
Those connections will grow during his tenure as Alabama Farmers Federation North Area vice president. The poultry, cattle and row crop farmer was elected in December by delegates from Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Franklin, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan and Winston counties.
Byrd and his wife, Sandy, have farmed full time since 1993 when they purchased poultry houses in Danville. Byrd was pivoting from a career driving
Meet North Area Vice President Mark Byrd
Poultry Committee from 2009-2018, was elected MCFF president in 2012 and served on the state board as District 2 director from 2020-2023. His operation was named Alabama’s Farm of Distinction in 2022.
trucks for Walmart, a job that honed skills maneuvering machinery but left him yearning for freedom and family time.
“I wanted to be there for our sons and be a dad and husband,” he said. “I wanted to enjoy the life I felt called to. It’s been a blessing to us over these years. I’ve had opportunities I never would have had if we had not made that move.”
Today, he and Sandy farm with their sons, Perry and Rodney. They’ve expanded into seven chicken houses, hay, cattle, corn, soybeans and wheat. Their family has grown, too. Rodney and his wife, Scarlett, have a 1-year-old daughter, Ava Sue.
Byrd credits his blessings to the Lord, giving special thanks for the Federation. He joined Young Farmers early on after encouragement from Morgan County Farmers Federation (MCFF) then-President Hal Lee. Those fledgling roots of leadership soon grew deep. Byrd served on the State
Grassroots advocacy is critical for farm country, Byrd said. He and Sandy share their farm struggles and successes when meeting with local legislators, elected officials and national decision-makers.
“Farming is mental,” he said. “A lot of people look at farming as a 12-hour per day, hard-labor job. That’s the easy stuff. You have to be prepared to handle the bad years.”
He continued, “That falls right into place with Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation. It’s so important we go to Washington, D.C., and Montgomery and tell our stories and what our needs are. Hopefully, that won’t fall on deaf ears. We must stay in business on the farm.”
As vice president, Byrd will crisscross the North Area visiting county board members. The hum of road noise is familiar for Byrd, whose truck sports an Ag Tag that reads SNGFMR.
A singing farmer, Byrd’s rich bass voice rounds out Living Faith Quartet, a Cullman-based group that travels throughout the Southeast harmonizing to hymns and worship songs.
It’s ministry — and another avenue to connect with others.
“We get to meet a lot of people, and you realize they’re all the same,” Byrd said. “Everybody’s got hurts, but everyone’s got strong faith, too. We try to be that encourager — reminding people God can handle anything you’re going through.”
Hear more of Byrd’s story.
Mark and Sandy Byrd raise cattle, poultry and row crops in Morgan County. Mark is the newly elected Alabama Farmers Federation North Area vice president.
Economic Contribution Totals Support Ag, Forestry as a Top Alabama Industry
A press conference Feb. 11 announced agriculture and forestry contribute $77.3 billion to Alabama’s economy. From left are Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Alabama Agribusiness Council Executive Director Grace Ellis and Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate.
By Mary Wilson
Agriculture and forestry provide the building blocks of society — food, fiber and timber. They also contribute a massive amount to Alabama’s economy to the tune of $77.3 billion annually, making agriculture and forestry one of the top industries in the state.
That number was among data included in the “Agriculture & Forestry Grow Alabama: An Economic Contribution Study,” released Feb. 11 during a press conference hosted by the Alabama Agribusiness Council at the RSA Plaza Terrace in downtown Montgomery.
The report also found agriculture and forestry account for 273,271 jobs, or 10% of Alabama’s workforce.
“The prosperity and sustainability of Alabama’s economy is heavily influenced by agriculture and these allied industries, and I’m proud to
represent the hard-working people employed in those endeavors,” said Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate. “Commodities produced in our state help feed and clothe people across the globe. They also add beauty to our environment and protect our natural resources.”
The economic numbers include production of goods and services, costs of inputs to production and additional expenditures from household income.
“Agriculture and forestry have been in the past and continue to be an extremely important part of Alabama’s economy, but to know that we are contributing $77.3 billion to our state’s economy each year is extremely valuable,” said Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell as he addressed the crowd during the press conference. “What’s really exciting is to think about how much this number could grow in the future if our state would focus on more economic development that supports these industries.”
The full report breaks down data by commodities as well as 10 geographic regions based on U.S. Department of Agriculture definitions. Researchers plan to review, update and release new economic contribution totals every two years.
The report was commissioned by the Alabama Agribusiness Council and conducted by researchers of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and Auburn University. Support from 20 agricultural and economic organizations helped fund the current study as well as future updates.
Economic Contribution and Jobs by Commodity
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Watch their Story
Meet Southeast Area Vice President Chris Carroll
By Tanner Hood
Family legacy.
That’s what drives newly elected Alabama Farmers Federation Southeast Area Vice President Chris Carroll to work the Dale County land that’s home to his sixth-generation farm.
“I’m very fortunate,” Chris said. “The farm has been through a lot of changes which allowed us to survive for so long. For me, it’s about being able to hand it off to the next generation.”
Chris manages stocker cattle, backgrounding, row crops and timber, while his wife, Monica, oversees poultry houses. It’s a family affair, as daughter Brittany Gulledge and son Blake operate a brood cow herd with a focus on pasture-to-plate production.
“When Brittany and Blake came to us with the idea of a processing plant, I thought it was crazy,” Chris said. “After some research, I decided it was a risk worth taking to diversify. It’s an opportunity for them to build their income here.”
Chris’s future-focused mentality expands outside his family.
“One thing that motivates me as vice president is ensuring the next generation, not just my kids and in-laws, has an opportunity — hopefully a better one than we had,” he said. “My
Dale County farmers
Chris and Monica Carroll operate their family farm while staying committed to serving Alabama’s ag community. Chris’s is the new Alabama Farmers Federation Southeast Area vice president. The Carrolls raise cattle, poultry and row crops.
granddaddy always said to leave it better than you found it, and that’s what I want for our farm and the Federation.”
In his new role, Chris will represent 17 counties on the Federation and Alfa Insurance board of directors. Those include Barbour, Bullock, Chambers, Coffee, Coosa, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Elmore, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lee, Macon, Pike, Russell and Tallapoosa counties.
“It’s a truly humbling experience to be elected to this position,” said Chris, also the Dale County Farmers Federation president. “It’s unique to have a bunch of farmers in the board room, but I believe good farmers are good businessmen. Keeping God as a priority for both organizations has been tremendous, and to me, that’s the key to success.”
The Carrolls have been shaped by Federation involvement since Chris returned to the farm in 2000 after graduating from Auburn University. Chris has served as State Young Farmers Committee chairman and District 12 director on the state board.
The Carrolls set the standard for service. Chris is a county commissioner, county Cattlemen’s Association board
member and former chair of the local Soil & Water Conservation District. Monica serves on the Federation’s State Women’s Leadership Committee, has chaired Alabama’s Farm Services Agency Committee and drives a school bus. They attend Ariton Baptist Church, where they teach Bible school.
Shared service has always been a priority, Monica said. She and Chris were Alabama’s Outstanding Young Farm Family in 2007.
“We’re a team,” she said. “Whatever he’s going after, whatever task, he’s always invited me to be a part of it.”
Now they’re helping lead the Federation forward.
“We’re going through some tough times in agriculture, but they’ll shape and mold you and definitely bring you closer to the Lord,” Chris said. “The Young Farmers program is extremely important to me because it’s the training ground for the next level. Young Farmers must be successful, and we have to help them, and all farmers, succeed.”
Hear more of Carroll’s story.
Chris Carroll has hit the ground running since his election as Southeast Area vice president in December. He travels to meetings in 17 counties, providing updates and insights to farmers.
Alfa Supports Children’s of Alabama With $25,000 Donation
Community. It’s one of Alfa Insurance’s Core 4 Values.
A commitment to serving the community motivated the company to provide a $25,000 donation to Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham during the hospital’s annual telethon Dec. 3.
“Alfa is all about helping people in times of need following storms, fires, theft or accidents,” said Alfa and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “Children’s of Alabama is all about helping people, too. We have heard many stories within our Alfa family of the care and comfort sick children and their families received while at Children’s.”
Parnell appeared on WVTM-TV 13, Birmingham’s NBC affiliate, during the telethon. He encouraged viewers to donate for Giving Tuesday, which was first observed in the U.S. in 2012 during the week following Thanksgiving.
“We are incredibly grateful for Alfa’s commitment to our annual Day
of Giving,” said Children’s of Alabama Chief Development Officer Chandler Bibb. “This generous gift inspired many others to give and fuel the important work Children’s does every day for families across Alabama.”
Alfa employee Brad Smith also appeared on WVTM with wife Laura
and daughter Aria, who was rushed to Children’s of Alabama for heart surgery when she was only 6 days old. Aria is now 10 years old.
The telethon raised more than $86,000, including the $25,000 donation provided through the Alfa Foundation.
From left are Children’s of Alabama CEO Tom Shufflebarger; Laura, Brad and Aria Smith; Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation President and CEO Jimmy Parnell; Children’s of Alabama Chief Development Officer Chandler Bibb; and Federation Communications Department Director Jeff Helms.
Insight on Intestate Succession
Land represents more than a livelihood for many farmers. It constitutes a family history, a legacy for future generations and a connection to ancestors. As each generation passes, the potential for land to become a point of conflict among family members increases.
A will is an important document for farm succession planning, though not every farmer chooses to have one. In those cases, when that person dies, passing along their property is governed by Alabama’s intestate succession law.
“Intestate” means someone died without a will or estate planning document in place. When this happens, a court will follow Alabama’s system to pass along the deceased person’s property. Alabama’s intestate succession law dictates a deceased person’s property transfers to their closest living relatives.
This seems simple but can quickly become confusing, difficult and divisive.
Consider Example 1.
Farmer Brown, a widower, owns 100 acres and passes away without a will. He and his wife had four children together. Alabama’s intestate succession law dictates his property passes to his children.
Farmer Brown’s four children now each own a 1/4 interest in the full 100 acres — not 25 acres each. All four children have equal rights to access and use the full property.
Consider Example 2.
Farmer Brown, a widower, owns 100 acres but dies without a will. He and his wife had four children together. Child A already passed away but left two heirs.
Farmer Brown’s three living children each own a 1/4 interest in the entire 100 acres, while two grandchildren each own a 1/8 interest.
Without legal action, this can quickly lead to many relatives owning one
parcel of land. If all owners can agree about how to separate the property, they can request a court “partition in kind.” The property would be re-surveyed and re-recorded with new owners indicated. Each would retain ownership of previously agreed-upon acreage.
If owners cannot agree how to split the property, there are two options. In one instance, owners carry on and do nothing to divvy the property. This is considered an heirs property issue. This will worsen with each generation as more owners acquire increasingly smaller interests in the property. Alternatively, an owner can request the court force a sale of the property.
Generally, other owners cannot prevent this. Other shared owners must purchase the property back, or family land is lost to the highest bidder. Estate planning is vital for farmers. Without proper planning, the legacy families have worked hard to build and preserve can be lost in two generations. Access resources related to solving the heirs property problem through the Alabama Heirs Property Alliance website at aces.edu/go/heirsproperty.
Intestate Succession Division of Property
Example 1
Example 2
Alabama Farmers Shine at American Farm Bureau Convention
By Mary Wilson
Deep in the heart of Texas, more than just stars were big and bright.
During the 106th American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) annual convention in San Antonio, Young Farmers from Alabama shone as they celebrated a first — competitors in all three Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) contests advancing to their second rounds.
Those included Alabama’s 2024 Outstanding Young Farm Family Whit and Amanda Lovelady, who were selected for the Top 10 in the YF&R Achievement Award contest, as well as Will and Ali Gotcher of Colbert County, who made the Top 10 in Excellence in Agriculture.
After two rounds of competition, Levi Noles of Randolph County advanced to the Sweet 16 in Discussion Meet, where he and other semi-finalists tackled the topic of increasing domestic energy production while minimizing loss of agricultural land and protecting private property rights.
“I am very proud of how well our Young Farmers represent Alabama,” said Alabama Farmers Federation
President Jimmy Parnell. “The Young Farmers program is growing. Our state is blessed with some of the best and brightest who have the potential to become great leaders in agriculture.”
Around 90 Federation members and staff joined the crowd of nearly 5,000 from across the country who attended the convention Jan. 25-29. The theme of “Step Up. Drive Forward.” was reinforced through motivational keynote addresses from Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, founder of nonprofit Folds for Honor, and former NFL player Eric Boles.
AFBF President Zippy Duvall echoed the optimistic tone while challenging farmers to make the most out of changing circumstances.
“With a new Congress and new administration in Washington, D.C., it’s an important time to engage with our leaders and build relationships,”
Duvall said in his address to convention attendees. “You all know what a tough battle the farm bill has been. While we appreciate Congress passing another extension, we will not let up.”
During an informational session, House Agriculture Committee Chair G.T. Thompson, R-Pa., and Ranking Member Angie Craig, D-Minn., spoke about the farm bill before a crowd that was standing room only.
“With President Trump, one of his priorities is farmers,” Thompson said. “I don’t really have a time frame for the farm bill except to say sooner than later. The problems in agriculture haven’t gone away. Our leadership on both sides of the aisle recognizes that, and we have a lot of work ahead of us.”
As part of the annual Flapjack Fundraiser, the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture announced
From left are Discussion Meet Sweet 16 competitor Levi Noles of Randolph County; Achievement Award Top 10 finalists Amanda and Whit Lovelady of Talladega County with their children, John Luke and Annagrace; and Excellence in Agriculture Top 10 finalists Ali and Will Gotcher of Colbert County.
Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell addressed delegates during the AFBF annual business session.
its 18th Book of the Year — “The Soil in Jackie’s Garden.” Alabama’s Women’s Leadership and Young Farmers divisions teamed up to distribute copies of the book during Young Farmers Conference in February.
Additional convention highlights included a private rodeo and barbecue supper at Pedrotti’s Ranch with Florida Farm Bureau Federation members, plus special awards. Alabama was recognized in four categories: Advocacy, Coalitions & Partnerships, Engagement & Outreach, and Leadership & Business Development. The Federation also received the Navigator Award for membership growth and the Apex Award for
increased contributions to the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture. Delegates represented Alabama at the Annual Meeting of American Farm Bureau Women, and for the second year, two youth delegates attended special leadership development sessions. Sponsored by the Federation, those were Alabama FFA President Jessa Usery of Limestone County and Alabama 4-H Vice President Sarah Sloughfy of Calhoun County.
The convention closed Jan. 28 with the annual voting delegate session, where 19 Alabama farmers participated in setting AFBF policy. The 107th convention is set for Jan. 9-14 in Anaheim, California.
There’s
Treats
Alabama 4-H Vice President Sarah Sloughfy and Alabama FFA President Jessa Usery attended youth leadership development seminars.
Joe and Donna Anders of Tuscaloosa County were proud to receive copies of the Book of the Year –
“The Soil in Jackie’s Garden.”
Front row from left are Stacey Nestor, Montgomery; Kathy Gordon, Montgomery; Vickie Watkins, Tallapoosa; Monica Carroll, Dale; Whitney Blackmon, Tallapoosa; and Ann Whatley, Lee. Back row from left are Federation Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Earwood; Serah Hall, Houston; Mary Richburg, Lee; Rachel Chastain, Talladega; Kristie Pinyan, Tallapoosa; and Amy Belcher, Montgomery.
From top: Farmers from Alabama and Florida attended a special barbecue and rodeo at Pedrotti’s Ranch; David and Carolyn Bailey of DeKalb County made a new friend at the Texas Farm Bureau booth at the convention trade show; Wendy and Paul Wheeler of Perry County enjoyed a special night of networking and fun at Pedrotti’s Ranch.
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETINGS OF
ALFA MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY
ALFA MUTUAL FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY & ALFA MUTUAL GENERAL INSURANCE COMPANY
The annual meetings of the policyholder members of Alfa Mutual Insurance Company, Alfa Mutual Fire Insurance Company and Alfa Mutual General Insurance Company will be held at the Executive Offices of the Company, 2108 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, Alabama, 36116, on March 31, 2025, at 8:30 a.m., to consider and act upon the following:
1. To elect Directors in accordance with the Bylaws.
2. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.
The record date fixed for determining members entitled to vote at said meeting is the close of business on February 10, 2025. If a member has authorized the Company’s Board of Directors to vote as his/her proxy at said meeting and wishes to revoke such proxy, such member may do so by written notice to the Secretary of the Company, by registered mail to the address set forth above, at least 10 days prior to said meeting.
Angela L. Bradwell Secretary
Mass Timber Grows Market for Alabama Forest Products
By Tanner Hood
Once dominated by fiery steel furnaces and miles of mines, the state’s construction products industry is finding renewed growth in the wood basket of south Alabama.
Cross- and glue-laminated timber products (CLT and glulam, respectively) are behind the industry shift. These are produced in the heart of Alabama’s 23.1 million acres of forest land at SmartLam North America in Dothan.
“CLT is a prefabricated, engineered solid wood panel made of layers of dimensional lumber,” said Adam Maggard, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System associate professor. “The lumber is stacked crosswise at right angles, glued and then pressed into place. The panels are then transported to the construction site where they are precisely connected using joints and structural adhesives.”
CLT originated in Europe but is now used in construction projects across the world. Mass timber products offer a move to more sustainably sourced building project materials compared to steel and iron, Maggard said. Although Alabama harvests 41 million tons of timber annually, 75 million tons are grown in its place, according to the Alabama Forestry Commission.
SmartLam North America CEO Derek Ratchford spoke to attendees at Auburn University’s (AU) CLT-focused conference last fall. The Alabama Farmers Federation helped sponsor the event.
“We’re basically Lincoln Logs and Legos for adults,” Ratchford said. “You’re buying a kit of parts. When it leaves our facility, you get it, swing it into place and attach it.”
CLT structures are gaining popularity on the AU campus. Those include the Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center, Hey Day Market, Advanced Structural Engineering Lab, and Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. With a natural wood-like look and feel, Maggard said CLT products provide flexibility and variability while being used in floors, roofs and walls.
Ratchford said SmartLam is committed to Dothan.
“This isn’t a two-year investment,”
Ratchford said. “It’s a 10, 20, 30-year investment. This wood basket that sits in south Alabama is one of the best in the country. This plant will service at least two new CLT facilities. As we continue to grow, we hope the industry will take advantage of it.”
Promoting the timber industry and SmartLam products is priority No.1 for Ratchford.
“Trees and timber land are very near and dear to my heart,” Ratchford said. “If we don’t give the landowners the value, we won’t have the fiber we need to make our material. I tell everyone, ‘The only three words you need to know are ‘wood is good.’’ We have the largest mass timber company in North America sitting in Dothan, and it’s a secret we need help spreading.”
Federation Forestry Division Director William Green said mass timber products like CLT could open a new door for Alabama’s forest landowners.
“The forestry industry has faced some tough markets over the last few years, but new avenues for lumber production like SmartLam should help landowners earn more for their products,” Green said.
Learn more about CLT.
Scientists, foresters and more learned about cross-laminated timber (CLT) during a conference at Auburn University last fall.
Auburn University’s Kreher Preserve and Nature Center (KPNC) showcases the many uses of mass timber in building design. KPNC’s roof and walls are made of crosslaminated timber manufactured at SmartLam in Dothan.
Photo courtesy of: Auburn University
Legendary Broadcaster Fred Hunter Joins Simply Southern TV
Afixture of Alabama television has a new place to hang his hat. On Feb. 9, longtime broadcaster Fred Hunter joined “Simply Southern TV” as a recurring reporter.
After 25 years hosting “Absolutely Alabama With Fred Hunter,” he said he looks forward to getting back on the road.
“I feel like what we do is important — for the people who are watching and the people whose stories we tell,” Hunter said. “There are so many stories. We’ve got to get busy and not stop what we’re doing.”
An Alabama native, Hunter’s somewhat-nomadic background means Alexander City, Attalla, Clayton, Fort Payne, Fyffe, Jasper, Opp and Tuscaloosa have all been his hometown.
“I’ve grown up with the people of this state, and I think we need to continue telling stories of Alabama,” he said. “It’s a calling. Some people might say that a calling is something else, but for me, it truly is a calling to share the people, places and things that are unique to this state we call home.”
Alabama Farmers Federation Communications Department Director Jeff Helms, who also serves as executive
producer of “Simply Southern TV,” said Hunter’s goals match perfectly with those of the show.
“Fred Hunter joining ‘Simply Southern TV’ feels like a family reunion,” Helms said. “For nearly three decades, Fred has shared our mission — telling the stories of people who make Alabama great. He knows how to bring an audience into a story to introduce characters who are the heart and soul of our communities. We are excited to have Fred on the team.”
Hunter also recently created FredHuntersAlabama.com, a website with blogs and podcasts about Alabama gems and personalities. He and wife Ivy have been married 45 years. They have four daughters, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A production of the Federation, “Simply Southern TV” is a weekly 30-minute show that explores Alabama’s barnyards and backroads. Learn more at SimplySouthernTV.net.
Hunter
Bankston Built on Farm Bureau Family Foundation
By Maggie Edwards
Farm Bureau means family for Henry County’s Emmanuel Bankston.
A passion for agriculture and heart for service set the foundation for Farm Bureau involvement that’s spanned three states — and three State Young Farmers Committees.
“This organization is a family,” said Bankston, the Alabama Farmers Federation State Young Farmers Committee vice chair. “It built me and helped me become who I am today.”
The son of a Marine, Bankston is no stranger to hard work, having spent childhood summers on his maternal grandfather’s cattle farm in Georgia.
“My favorite quote is from a college professor who said, ‘Everything I have, I can thank a cow for,’” said Bankston, a Henry County Farmers Federation board member. “As a kid, feeding cows with my granddad, a Georgia Farm Bureau member, was a treat. I’m grateful to continue his legacy of farming — even though it’s in a different place.”
After moving around military bases as a child, Bankston found sanctuary in South Carolina. That’s where he began FFA and agriscience classes. It’s also where he became a Farm Bureau member at age 17.
Joining South Carolina Farm Bureau (SCFB) was a way to create a farmer network, Bankston said.
“My FFA project was a pine straw business,” said Bankston, a former South Carolina FFA state officer. “When I went to the local SCFB office, I wanted to make connections to lease land for baling. They encouraged me to apply for the SCFB Youth Ambassador program, and I got in.”
From there, Bankston’s story surged. He excelled in agriscience education at Clemson University and served on the SCFB State Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee in college.
Following graduation, Archer Daniels
Midland (ADM) food company hired Bankston for a role in grain exports. That led to his second state Farm Bureau membership, this time in Louisiana.
Bankston served on the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation State Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee before accepting a job with ADM Golden Peanut in Headland, Alabama, in 2018.
“I wanted to move back east, and I wanted farm land,” Bankston said. “Once I saw Headland, I knew I was going to put down roots.”
The first Alabama Farmers Federation leader Bankston met was then-Area 8 Organization Director Boyd Deal.
“Boyd welcomed me to the Wiregrass with open arms,” Bankston remembered. “He encouraged me to get involved with Young Farmers. I formed Henry County Young Farmers (HCYF) because of Boyd.”
Bankston said establishing HCYF is one of his greatest accomplishments. Owning a cow-calf operation and winning the 2020 Excellence in
Agriculture competition are among his favorites, too.
“It doesn’t matter where you’re from,” he said. “If you’re with good folks, you’re home. I have my Alfa family, a dream job and good cattle to raise.”
Federation Young Farmers Division Director Hunter McBrayer said Bankston is an encouragement to Young Farmers across the nation.
“Emmanuel is an example of passion mixed with hard work,” McBrayer said. “I’m impressed with his ability to handle things that are thrown his way. He does it all with a smile. Alabama is blessed to have him.”
Bankston has recently become a face for American agriculture and was featured in Farm Bureau advertisements during Super Bowl LIX.
“I joined Farm Bureau with nothing but a dream,” Bankston said. “People helped me even though I looked different from them and wasn’t from their town. So many strangers took time to invest in my future. I want to do the same for others.”
Henry County’s Emmanuel Bankston has a deep passion for agriculture and has been involved in three state Farm Bureaus. Bankston is currently the Alabama Farmers Federation State Young Farmers Committee vice chair. His Farm Bureau foundation led him to become a face for agriculture nationwide as he’s been featured on billboards and photo displays for the American Farm Bureau Federation.
Snow Blankets Alabama Farms
Many Alabama farms transformed into rare winter wonderlands during two snowstorms in January. Up to 7 inches of snow blanketed north Alabama Jan. 10. South Alabama earned a heaping helping of powder Jan. 21, with some communities receiving nearly 10 inches.
While the unusual snow heralded snowball fights, sledding and beautiful snapshots, it also kept Alabama
farmers busy. Producers put out extra hay for livestock, checked propane fuel levels in chicken houses and monitored fruit and vegetable plants.
While issues could arise later this spring, specialty crop farmers reported minimal damage from the snow, which helped insulate some crops, protecting tender plants from prolonged freezing temperatures.
Nikki Dyess Geneva County
Mike McKenzie Baldwin County
Hayley Walters Lee County
Shelby Adams Henry County
Blake Gifford Jackson County
Stacey Nestor Montgomery County
Sheryl McKathan Covington County
Hope Cassebaum Baldwin County
Emily Cox Barbour County
Brooklyn George Elmore County
Josie Williams Talladega County
Shelby Easterling Barbour County
Misty Porter Clay County
The beans in your Alabama fields today are destined to see the world. Last year, we exported $83.8 million worth of soybeans. That’s a lot of overseas opportunity for one year. And we’re always growing new markets abroad to help keep this demand going strong. And if you’re wondering how far your soybeans can go, we’re charting more ways to keep your ship coming in. Learn more about the story of soy at unitedsoybean.org/hopper.
Alabama Crops Report Podcast Educates, Entertains Producers
By Justin Miller
Imagine having an Extension crops specialist or agent riding along and offering expertise as you work. Through the Alabama Crops Report podcast, this is a reality.
Brought to farmers by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Agronomic Crops team, this podcast offers timely insights into all aspects of row-crop production in the state.
“On the podcast, we aim to have relevant and meaningful conversations with specialists and agents across Alabama, who provide tips and insights on improving farm efficiency and profitability,” said Scott Graham, an Extension entomology specialist and podcast cohost. “Topics include anything related to crop production and management, from variety selection and soil sampling to spraying and harvesting.”
A Look at 2025
No two growing seasons are the same, and challenges producers face are different and dynamic. It’s
imperative producers stay informed on the latest conditions and Extension recommendations. This year, Simer Virk said the team will focus on providing timely updates for row crops, including corn, cotton, peanuts and soybeans.
“We will discuss different production and management considerations with specialists, covering topics related to fertility, planting, irrigation, agriculture technology and pest management,” said Virk, an Extension precision agriculture specialist and podcast cohost. “We will also have agents and growers as guests and cover other topics and issues as they arise.”
The Alabama Crops Report serves as a great companion to traditional Extension materials. Written publications provide valuable, researchbased information to producers. These episodes cover many of the same topics but allow for further explanation and discussion.
“Podcasts are a great avenue to get more in-depth information that can be hard to digest in a handout or written publication,” Graham said. “The conversational format of this podcast
allows us as hosts to ask follow-up questions and clarifications to our guests, which provides listeners a richer understanding of the content.”
Listen Now
Whether you’re an experienced listener or new to the world of podcasts, the Extension team invites you to join them throughout 2025 and beyond. Virk said they hope this podcast is an informative and entertaining source for the state’s producers.
“Our goal is to help listeners feel more connected to Alabama Extension specialists and regional agents,” Virk said. “The engaging format and real-world insights make this podcast a valuable tool for anyone interested in agriculture.”
Listen to season five of the Alabama Crops Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Alabama Extension’s website at aces.edu/go/ AlabamaCropsReportPodcast.
Have a topic the podcast should cover? Send suggestions via email to Graham at scottg@auburn.edu or Virk at svirk@auburn.edu.
By Brooke Foster
Abeautiful, carefully stitched quilt hangs in the Alfa Insurance service center in York, lovingly crafted by Janell Hughes for her Alfa agent, Audrey Graves. Hughes said the effort put into every stitch mirrors the attention to detail Graves has given her for more than two decades.
“Personalized service is an art, much like quilting,” Hughes said. “That seems to slowly be dwindling away. As an Alfa customer for more than 40 years, I can say that the personal service I’ve received from Audrey tells me that it’s stitched into the experience you receive as her customer. No matter what issue
arises — an auto or weather-related claim that I’ve had to deal with — Audrey has always been prompt, thoughtful and personable.”
The two have formed a deep friendship over the years. Hughes often visits the local office, sharing with Graves what’s happening in her world — and what projects she has in progress.
One routine visit sparked an idea.
“I was thinking about what I could do with a stack of Alfa Insurance shirts I was no longer wearing, and then I thought about Mrs. Hughes and her quilts,” Graves said. “I asked if she’d be willing to create a quilt for me, and she gladly took on the task!”
Twenty-seven Alfa shirts were
trimmed, laid out and pieced together to create Grandmother’s Flower Garden — a traditional pattern originating in the 1930s, famous for its hexagonal blocks arranged to resemble flowers. Dozens of buttons from the collars and sleeves were upcycled to spell “Alfa” across the fabric.
Hughes delivered the quilt in December.
“It’s rewarding to know a customer took time to put something like this together for me,” Graves said. “I’ll cherish it forever.”
Quality service, similar to quality stitching, takes practice, patience and empathy. Like Hughes’ ease with a needle and thread, Graves has honed serving customers and fellow community members into an art form.
“The best part of my job is the flexibility it gives me to not only take care of my customers but to truly get to know them,” Graves said. “Being accessible and providing a personal touch to let them know they matter speaks volumes. Whether they’ve hit a deer, lost their house in a fire or whatever the case may be, I’m going to be there for them.”
Customers often ask Graves about the bright, framed quilt on her wall, and she never shies away from sharing the story of Hughes’ kindness.
“More than a decorative piece, it’s a testament of loyalty, exceptional service and friendship,” Hughes said. “I’ve been quilting for 60 years. Of all the hats I’ve worn, quilting is the one thing that fills my life with purpose. It’s something I love that brings joy to others, just like Audrey brings to me. She’s a pleasure to work with, but more importantly, she’s just a great friend.”
To find a local agent who provides exceptional customer service, visit AlfaInsurance.com.
Long-time Alfa customer Janell Hughes, left, showed her appreciation for York Alfa Agent Audrey Graves by stitching a custom quilt crafted from Alfa apparel.
A GUIDE TO GROWING AND CARING FOR ROSES
By Mallory Kelley
Few things are more beautiful than a yard full of roses. Whether hybrid, climber, knockout or garden roses, these flowers add vibrant color to any landscape.
As America’s national flower, roses are beloved for their beauty and versatility. With more than 6,000 varieties, roses offer blooms in different forms, colors and fragrances from spring to late fall. Roses stand out as specimen plants in stunning mass displays, but they can also serve as borders, hedges or trellis climbers.
Growing healthy roses requires careful planning and consistent care. The first step is selecting a planting site that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day to minimize disease risks. The site should be a well-prepared garden bed enriched
with organic matter, such as composted manure, peat moss or decayed leaves. Before planting, conduct a soil test to determine fertilizer and lime needs, aiming for a slightly acidic pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Avoid poorly drained soils, as roses cannot survive in overly wet conditions.
Space roses at least 2 feet apart to ensure they receive sufficient sunlight and air circulation to reduce the chances of disease. Water them early in the morning, and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal problems. Roses require about 1 inch of water per week. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and reduce weeds.
Regular pruning and flower removal encourages healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Pruning is essential for improving bloom size, quality and overall plant health. Bush rose types — such as hybrid tea, grandiflora and floribunda — should be pruned in early
spring after the last frost. Climbing roses that bloom in spring should be pruned immediately after flowering, while varieties that bloom throughout the season may need selective pruning of older canes to encourage new growth.
When pruning, remove dead, damaged or weak growth, leaving three to five vigorous canes for flower production. Adjust pruning intensity based on goals. You can leave longer canes for more flowers or prune them back to 12 to 14 inches above the ground for larger, showier blooms.
Weekly plant inspections are important to prevent disease and pest damage as the season wears on. With thoughtful care, roses can flourish, providing stunning displays and enjoyment throughout the growing season.
For more information, read “Growing Roses” at aces.edu.
Recipes for sweet, peanut-packed treats abound in Elaine Helms’ Geneva County kitchen.
Her affinity for stirring up Crock-Pot candy, sugared peanuts or peanut brittle is especially fitting considering her husband, Jimmy, grows the delicious, nutritious peanut in Slocomb. The Helms family also grows cotton, corn, hay and oats on land Jimmy’s great-grandfather settled in 1893.
Tell us about your family.
Jimmy and I married in January 1966 and have lived on Helms Hill these
59 years. We have two sons, Loren (1968-2017) and Wade. We have one granddaughter, two grandsons and four great-grandchildren. We are thankful! God’s blessings abound. We all enjoy gathering in our home for food and fun together.
Did you have an off-farm career?
I worked as a legal secretary for four years, then as support personnel at the local school for 34 years. After I retired, I worked almost 12 years as a church secretary. Now, I am busy being “The Cook and Homemaker.”
I also volunteer with church, civic events and farm-related groups like the Geneva County Women’s Leadership Committee. Jimmy serves on the Geneva County Farmers Federation and Alabama Peanut Producers Association boards. These groups represent the heart and soul of Alabama agriculture and support fundamental rights and needs of our farmers.
Why do you spend time in the kitchen?
I began learning in the kitchen when I was very young. My mother and grandmother were great cooks, so I must have inherited some of their genes. I don’t just cook. I want what I serve to be tasty, nutritious and enjoyed by everyone.
NationalPeanutMonth
March is National Peanut Month. What role do peanuts play in your life?
We not only enjoy growing peanuts; they’re a popular choice for our family in many ways! Boiled, roasted, fried, in cakes, candy and in homemade ice cream, to name a few.
What’s the secret to perfect peanut brittle?
n Make it on a bright, sunny day.
n Peanuts must be room temperature.
n Follow directions carefully. Practice makes perfect!
n The syrup is very hot and will continue to cook after off the heat. As it does, the light tan color will become a true caramel.
I learned to make peanut brittle in home economics class in high school. My teacher stretched the brittle when we made it, so I continue to stretch mine.
This month’srecipes byHelElaine ms
Sugared Peanuts
2 cups raw peanuts
1/2 cup water
1 cup sugar
Salt
Heat oven to 300 F. Combine peanuts, water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook on medium heat until peanuts are well-coated with sugar. Spread peanuts on a lightly buttered baking pan and sprinkle lightly with salt. Bake until peanuts are dry and crunchy, stirring occasionally.
Rocky Mountain Snowdrops
2 pounds white chocolate
1 cup peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups mini marshmallows
2 cups roasted peanuts
3 cups Rice Krispies
Melt white chocolate in a large bowl in the microwave or on the stovetop in a saucepan. Add peanut butter and vanilla. Stir in marshmallows, peanuts and Rice Krispies. Mix well. Drop with a spoon onto wax paper to cool.
Peanut Crock-Pot Candy
1 (16-ounce) jar salted, dry roasted peanuts
1 (16-ounce) jar unsalted, dry roasted peanuts
1 (12-ounce) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (12-ounce) bag milk chocolate chips
1 package German sweet milk chocolate (I use Baker’s.)
2 (10-ounce) bags peanut butter chips
1 (2-pound) package white almond bark or vanilla coating
Layer ingredients in Crock-Pot as listed, starting with salted, dry roasted peanuts. Cover and cook on low 1 hour. Stir to mix. Cover and cook 30 minutes, checking to prevent burning. Stir well and dollop tablespoonfuls onto parchment paper. Cool and enjoy.
Elaine’s Peanut Brittle
2 cups sugar
1/4 cup water
3/4 cup Karo light corn syrup
2 cups raw peanuts
2 teaspoons baking soda
Grease two cookie sheets with butter and set aside. In a 4-quart saucepan on medium heat, cook sugar, water, Karo and raw peanuts. Stir constantly, until mixture becomes a very light caramel color. Remove from heat and continue to stir. Add baking soda and continue stirring until it becomes a true caramel color. Pour brittle onto pans. After a few minutes, begin stretching brittle with your fingers and break into pieces. Lay brittle on wax paper to cool.
Bonus Recipe from Stacey
Peanut Butter Ball Bars
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter, divided
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (12-ounce) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
Line an 8-inch-by-8-inch pan with aluminum foil and lightly coat with nonstick cooking spray. In the bowl of a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, combine butter and 1 cup peanut butter until smooth. Add graham cracker crumbs and
mix well. Add powdered sugar and salt and mix well. A soft dough will form. Press dough evenly into bottom of the pan. In another bowl, melt chocolate chips in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval. Microwave until chips are nearly melted, then stir until they melt the rest of the way. This prevents scorching. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of peanut butter and stir to combine. Spread chocolate mixture on top and allow to cool. Place in fridge and allow to chill through — at least 3 hours. Once firm, lift foil out of the pan and peel it away from the bars. Slice into 1-inch squares using a very sharp serrated knife.
BREAKFAST
Alittle breakfast joint. Birmingham. The birth pangs of summer are in the air. Alabama feels like a Monet. Trees are pregnant with blossoms. Birds are everywhere.
On my way in, I see a man seated on the sidewalk, weeping. A young woman sits beside him, rubbing his shoulders. I’m wondering what’s wrong. I’m probably staring, even. Which isn’t polite, but I can’t help it.
The first thing you should know about me is that I am very nosy person. I get this from my mother. I have my black belt in rubbernecking.
“I can’t believe he’s gone,” I hear the man say. “I can’t believe it.”
He blows his nose into a hanky. The young woman cries with him.
Nosy, I tell you.
Inside the restaurant, the young waitress tells me to sit wherever I want. I sit in the corner so I can see the people in the place — because I am a longtime people watcher. Nosy people usually are. Put me in a crowded airport, and I could die happy.
My waitress has the tattoo of an infant footprint on her forearm.
“What does the tattoo mean?” I ask.
“It’s my daughter,” she says. “She died shortly after she was born. It was a neural tube defect. She wasn’t even 2 days old. She died in my arms.”
“What was your daughter’s name?”
“Rachel.”
“I’m sorry.”
She thanks me. Then she takes my order. I order three eggs, over medium. One order of bacon. Hash browns. And white toast, for sopping material.
The waitress leaves and I am left looking around the dining room. It’s your typical morning café, with a typical cast of characters. Workmen.
Corporate people. Travelers.
I see men clad in business clothes. One of them is Facetiming with a family member. His daughter maybe.
He is passing the smartphone around the table. The little-girlish voice on the phone is saying, “I can’t wait until you’re back home, Daddy.”
“Me, too, sweetheart,” says Daddy. He is masculine and business-like. But his tone gives him away. He is all heart.
“I love you, baby,” he says quietly into the phone.
I see a young man in the corner of the restaurant. He is using a wheelchair. He is young. Maybe 13. An older woman is feeding him with a spoon.
The young man is eating grits.
She blows on each spoonful to cool it before he takes a bite. And after every bite, he claps his hands with glee. I’ve never seen anyone love grits this much.
Welcome to Birmingham.
I glance out the window. The man who was crying is now leaning his head on the young woman who consoles him. I’m left wondering what tragedy has befallen them.
My food arrives. The eggs are cooked flawlessly. My sopping material is also toasted perfectly.
The waitress asks if everything looks good. I tell her it looks perfect. Then, I press my luck and ask if she has pictures of her late infant daughter.
“Yeah,” she says.
In the photo, the infant has a shock of reddish hair. She is so tiny it hurts. She is clean, pink, fleshy and wrapped in swaddling clothes.
“She was beautiful,” I say.
The waitress shakes her head.
“Not ‘was,’” she says, pointing to the ceiling. “‘Is.'"
Sometimes, it pays to be nosy. ■
