Belue
GFB’S FIRST FARM DOG OF THE YEAR
Insurance You Can Feel Good About
When you partner with Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance, your dollars are reinvested right back into your community.
Having access to fresh, locally grown food is important to everyone. From the fresh food on our plates to the fiber in our clothes to the timber in our homes, it is important to support our family farms so our agriculture community can remain strong. You can help by buying local, and also by buying your insurance through Georgia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company. As a Georgia driver, you’re legally required to purchase auto insurance, so why not partner with a company that reinvests dollars into Georgia’s rural communities? Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance was founded on supporting Georgia Agriculture and continues that mission into the future. Georgia Farm Bureau agents are in your community, and as your neighbors, are committed to being there when you need them most. Learn more at GFBInsurance.com.
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VIEW FROM THE FIELD
Love for dogs goes beyond the farm
06 08
ASK A FARMER
First-hand lessons in agriculture from local growers
PRODUCTS WE LOVE
Reward good pups with what they love
APPLE NACHOS
A new take on chips and dips
FARM DOGS
Meet the 2024 Georgia Farm Dogs of the Year
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21 22 24 28
BRIDGING THE GAP
Former GFB Ambassador helps those in need
A HELPING HAND
Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance demonstrates the power of community
GOOD BOY GOODIES
Macon woman makes all-natural dog treats
FRESH FIXINS
Springtime dinner recipes from Husk
FEELING SAUCY
The amazing and versatile tomato
Strawberries at Southern Belle Farm | Henry County, Georgia
ENTS ENTS
GEORGIA FARM BUREAU
Georgia Farm Bureau is the premier voice for agriculture in Georgia. We work earnestly to support a safe and abundant food supply that not only feeds Georgians, but the growing world as well. Georgia Neighbors Magazine is a nod to that genuine sentiment – it’s an opportunity to discover the people, the places and the impact of ag in our great state.
Want to subscribe? Become a Georgia Farm Bureau member to receive Georgia Neighbors twice a year. Membership means supporting farmers and agriculture while having access to more than 300,000 discount offers. Visit gfb.ag/join.
For content inquiries or comments, please contact Information/Public Relations Director Kenny Burgamy at 478-474-0679, extension 5285, or email kdburgamy@gfb.org.
ON THE COVER
Georgia Farm Dog of the Year, Belue at Brock Farms in Sumter County, Ga.
VIEW FROM THE FIELD
Tom McCall, GFB President
ate last year, I received a note in the mail from Brinson Brock, an ag teacher in Sumter County.
Mr. Brock wrote to thank me for the opportunity our organization gave him to showcase his farm dog, Belue. You see, Belue is featured on the cover of this magazine you’re reading. That’s because the Shetland Sheepdog was named the inaugural winner of the Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Farm Dog of the Year contest back in October at the Sunbelt Expo.
This award is not merely about recognizing a dog’s ability to herd or guard; it’s about honoring a steadfast partner in the fields. I think the bond between a farmer and their dog is profound.
GFB is known for its love of dogs. Lucky, an Australian Shepherd, has served as our popular mascot since 2021.
I suspect you already know that all four-legged workers on the farm are special, and we had more than 150 entries in the farm dog contest last year. But it seems to me the judges of the competition picked a solid winner because Belue does so
GFB President Tom McCall and his wife, Jane with Brinson Brock and his dog, Belue.
much more than partner with Mr. Brock on the farm.
This canine with a blue merle coat attends the middle school ag classes that Mr. Brock teaches during the school year. They both are responsible for encouraging students’ interest in veterinary science. What’s really unique to me is that special needs children interact with Belue daily and connect with him.
Mr. Brock has told our staff that people are amazed to learn how farm dogs can work fiercely on the farm, but can also help those with disabilities or loneliness by creating a calming effect.
Be sure to look at the top 5 finalists from the most recent contest on pages 12-16 in this edition of the magazine, and if you have a farm dog helper, enter them in our 2025 Farm Dog of the Year contest by visiting gfb.ag/ EnterFarmDogContest.
The next farm dog contest winner will be announced Oct. 14 during the Willie B. Withers Sunbelt Expo Luncheon in Moultrie. We hope to see you there.
OFFICERS
President & CEO
TOM MCCALL, Elbert Co.
1st Vice President
and South Georgia Vice President
DANIEL JOHNSON, Pierce Co.
North Georgia Vice President
BERNARD SIMS, Catoosa Co.
Middle Georgia Vice President
RALPH CALDWELL, Heard Co.
General Counsel
DUKE GROOVER
Chief Administrative Officer
JEFFREY HARVEY
Chief Financial Officer & Corporate Treasurer
RACHEL MOSELY
Corp. Secretary & Senior Counsel
JEANNA FENNELL
DIRECTORS
FIRST DISTRICT: Bill Bryan, Chattooga Co.; Wesley Hall, Forsyth, Co.; SECOND DISTRICT: Gilbert Barrett, Habersham Co.; Russ Moon, Madison Co.;
THIRD DISTRICT: Brad Marks, Newton Co.; Chad Carlton, Polk Co.
FOURTH DISTRICT: Skeetter McCorkle, McDuffie Co.; Russ Wilburn, Barrow Co.; FIFTH DISTRICT: Leighton Cooley, Crawford Co.; Matt Bottoms, Pike Co.;
SIXTH DISTRICT: James Malone, Laurens Co.; James Emory Tate, Jeff Davis Co.; SEVENTH DISTRICT: Gary Bell, Evans Co.; Ben Boyd, Screven Co.; EIGHTH DISTRICT: Scotty Raines, Turner Co.; Don Wood, Wilcox Co.; NINTH DISTRICT: Lucius Adkins, Baker Co.; Paul Shirah, Mitchell Co.; TENTH DISTRICT: David Lee, Bacon Co.; Lamar Vickers, Berrien Co. YOUNG FARMER CHAIRMAN: Allie Andrews, Polk Co.
WOMEN’S COMMITTEE CHAIR: Julie Hardy, Thomas Co.
GEORGIA NEIGHBORS
Director: Kenny Burgamy
Art Director: Nicollette Boydstun
Photographer: Logan Thomas
Consulting Copy Editor: Renee Corwine
ADVERTISING POLICY
All advertising accepted subject to publisher’s approval. Advertisers must assume liability for content of their advertising. Publisher maintains right to cancel advertising for non-payment or reader complaint about advertiser service or products. Publisher does not accept per-order, political or alcoholic beverage ads, nor does publisher prescreen or guarantee advertiser service or products. Publisher assumes no liability for products or services advertised in the Georgia Farm Bureau Neighbors. For advertising rates and information, contact Wendy McFarland at 334-652-9080 or mcfarlandadvantage@ gmail.com. Georgia Farm Bureau Neighbors was established in 1996. Copyright 2025 by the Georgia Farm Bureau Federation. Printed by Panaprint, Macon, Georgia.
Ask a
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned as a farmer?
“One word: perseverance.” - Lindsey Morgan
“You learn to lean on the Lord, always put some money back for a rough year, and be a good manager of your land and money.” - Jerry Wooten
“Farming isn’t just a way of life. It’s a community. We have learned that we are never alone in this process. We have found value in the different commodities that agriculture has to offer. It is a family who supports each other and we are never alone in what we do.” - Allie Andrews
“Everyone’s situation is different. What works for one farmer will likely not work for you. Watching your inputs and being timely are the two things that should be consistent in everyone’s operation.”- Colt Calhoun
What is something you want to tell consumers that they may not know about farming?
“Food doesn’t just appear at the grocery store. It starts with the farmer. ” - Lindsey Morgan
“I’d want them to know how much hard work goes into planting a crop, and how high the input cost is, while the prices of the commodities stay low. Farmers take pride in their crops and they want to produce the best crop they can.” - Jerry Wooten
“I always like to educate the people we come into contact with about what it takes to eat what is on their plates or wear what is on their backs. There are sacrifices that are made day in and day out. This question alone is the reason I started a farm camp for kids in our community. They are the next generation. They will take over, and I want them to understand what goes into raising cattle and producing the feed for that cattle like hay. Also, where the chicken they love so much comes from from the temperature of the houses to the comfort in the air. They need to understand how important what we do is. They get a backstage pass and a front row seat. So the most important thing for the consumers to do is see the farms first hand.”
- Allie Andrews
“Pesticide use is a vital tool for modern-day agriculture. The more technology that the government takes from us, the more our costs go up. The continued banning of pesticide labels will ultimately result in much higher prices for the end consumer, and much more product will come from foreign countries.”
- Colt Calhoun
Farmer
What is the biggest challenge you face day to day, year to year?
“Commodity prices and weather. It’s difficult to be at the mercy of Mother Nature every year.” - Lindsey Morgan
“We have learned to compare prices before we buy anything, especially chemicals, fertilizer, fuel and parts. We make a yearly budget and compare which crop made the most profit in previous years.” - Jerry Wooten
“I would say pricing. If you look at the prices of cotton or pecans, then compare that to what the equipment costs to run and operate the farm, it makes zero sense. On our farm we produce hay, cattle, and have poultry houses. The grocery store prices are through the roof, but the cost to stay in operation is even higher. That, compared to what we make off our production, is incomparable. We have to love what we do down to our core. It’s not for the money. It’s truly for the love of ag!” - Allie Andrews
“Looking for different ways to cut costs while still trying to increase yields is a challenge I face daily. Managing my worklife balance is also something I struggle with at times.” - Colt Calhoun
What’s the best advice
you can give the next generation farmers?
“Don’t farm looking across the fence worrying about what your neighbor has. Take care of what’s yours and always remember to pray.” - Lindsey Morgan
“Make sure you check prices on everything, stay up to date with technology and always stay within your budget. Don’t spend money that you don’t have.” - Jerry Wooten
“Love what you do and work hard. Laziness will be your biggest enemy. The best part about farming is the gift you are able to give someone, like food and clothing. Everyone can eat and buy clothes but there are very few who can produce both.” - Allie Andrews
“Start with a day job and farm a little on the side. Slowly build your operation with equity and minimize debt.” - Colt Calhoun
CHEESY BACON BITES
SHAMPOO
Yellow Rose Farm
Shady Dale, GA yellowrosefarmsoapcompany.com SWEET POTATO STRIPS
Good Boy Goodies Macon, GA goodboygoodies.com
Project Good Dogs Douglasville, GA projectgooddogs.com
DOG PAW BALM
Simply Sage Dog Treats Norcross, GA simplysagedogtreats.com
Cattle Pup Co. Roswell, GA cattlepupco.com
We know you love dogs as much as we do. These Georgia-grown and produced items make pawsitively wonderful gifts for your fellow dog lovers, or for the very goodest pups in your life.
SWEET & SAVORY SLICES
FOREVER FETA
Rosemary & Thyme Creamery 267-377-6124
WILDFLOWER HONEY
Hillside Orchard Farms 706-782-2776
WALNUTS
APPLE NACHOS
Who needs chips and salsa when you have farm-fresh apples and dips made with Georgia-grown products? If you’re looking for fresh and healthy snack ideas for your family, try these ideas for Apple Nachos. To locate these items and discover more, visit gfb.ag/CFM.
All apples are from Red Barn Market | 229-507-0802
BOUNTIFUL BERRY BITES
STRAWBERRIES
LCCL Strawberry Farm 706-295-2587
BLUEBERRIES O5 Farms 706-510-8212
YOGURT
PEANUT BUTTER PIECES
PEANUT BUTTER Mark’s Melon Patch 229-698-4750
MAPLE PECAN SYRUP Hillside Orchard Farms 706-782-2776
CHOCOLATE CHIPS
FARM DOGS
arm dogs play a special role on the farm. Versatile, intelligent and hardworking, these dedicated canines help our farmers feed the world. From herding livestock and guarding property to fetching tools and even sniffing out diseases, farm dogs are truly a farmer’s best friend. Driven by instinct and a strong desire to please, farm dogs also provide an invaluable source of companionship and joy to their families.
In 2024, Georgia Farm Bureau asked members to nominate their furry heroes in the Georgia Farm Dog Contest. The winner and finalists were announced in October at the Sunbelt Ag Expo just before the announcement of Farmer of the Year. Read on to meet this year’s winner, Belue, and his fellow finalists.
BELUE
More than just a handsome farmhand, Belue has the smarts to match. When he’s not busy working sheep, cattle and poultry with his owner Brinson Brock at Brock Farms in Sumter County, Belue attends class at a local middle school to encourage interest in the veterinarian science certification program. He rounds up chickens and other small animals in the school garden and is a willing participant for grooming, bandaging and general body condition exams.
Special needs children interact with Belue daily to learn how farm dogs can not only work fiercely on the farm, but can also help with those suffering with disabilities, infirmities or simply loneliness. Belue has a calming effect on the students.
Recognized as a breed standard of Shetland Sheepdogs, Belue is a natural athlete. He demonstrates herding, agility and basic commands at “Science on the Farm” events for children and customer appreciation days at their local Tractor Supply Company, where Brinson said Belue delights the crowd with his athleticism and calm and quick demeanor. A born showman, his ability to work crowds of strangers is amazing, as is the way he can hone in on his master’s voice over the noise.
Through his work in teaching children about a dog’s role on the farm, Belue has instilled trust in students who have overcome fears and social withdrawal because of personal circumstances. Whether rounding up chickens or football players, no one can outrun Belue.
Belue is extremely loyal and a constant companion to Brinson, who lovingly shares him throughout the farming community. At just 2 years old, Belue has been petted by hundreds of little hands, many at the same time.
“He seems to realize the children’s need to touch, and participating in this ritual is part of his responsibility,” said Brinson.
TUFF
When you need a right-hand-man, Tuff’s got his paw out. A companion first, Tuff is always by Ross Wyatt’s side when he and his family are working on the farm. Whether it’s fencing, feeding or working cattle, the 60-pound Australian Shephard is ready to help at Pine Log Creek Cattle Company in Gordon County.
A natural born herder and a youngster, 1-yearold Tuff already helps in the working pen and is learning to move cattle for rotational grazing. Ross said Tuff is always eager to learn new jobs on the farm and no matter the task, he’s ready and willing to work.
“He’s the best mix of a companion and a working dog. Tuff spends almost every day with me. He’ll lay around the house when he gets the opportunity, but he’ll beat you to the door when it’s time to work,” Ross said. “He wants to please and is exactly what people want in a farm or ranch dog. He wants to work and do his job, and he’s fine to chill with his family when the work is over.”
RED MAN
This farm dog is here to show the world the definition of “small but mighty.” An 18-pound Jack Russell Terrier, Red Man is the head dog in charge at CR Melear Corp in Burke County.
Red Man helps his owner, Anna Watkins, by herding cows and riding on the tractor. His favorite job is sorting cows and calves and loading them on the trailer. Anna said Red Man is just heartbroken on the days he has to stay home and miss out on the fun.
Red Man recovered from a traumatic brain injury due to a farm accident that left him unable to walk at 6 months old. Now at age 7, physical therapy and acupuncture have made him unstoppable.
During his down time from farm jobs, Red Man herds the family’s five kids and makes sure they stay out of trouble, especially around the pool. When he isn’t working, he likes to snack on a Slim Jim, play in the mud and take naps on the bed.
RED MAN IS TRULY
ONE OF A KIND AND EVERYONE WHO KNOWS HIM, LOVES HIM.
They say when you find “the one,” you just know it’s meant to be. Donna Padgett, of Coosawattee Farm in Gordon County, grew up around farm dogs. But her 11-year-old Australian Shepherd, Stubby, is special.
Stubby is a working dog. He works cattle, sheep and has trialed on ducks. Like most working dogs, Stubby learned by repetition. So much so that he sometimes does things on his own because he’s done them so many times. He sorts sheep and cattle and brings them from the pasture to the barn for vaccinations and worming. Sometimes, Stubby steps up and does the job before Donna gets the chance to ask.
Off the farm, he’s just as dedicated to his work. Stubby and Donna have participated in Stockdog Trials and Stubby earned his Working Trial Championship through the Australian Shepherd Club of America.
“Words could never describe the relationship that I have with Stubby, nor the heart, work ethic and thinking ability of this amazing, working dog,” Donna said. “He is a once in a lifetime partner.”
Weighing in at 115 pounds, Doug was the best security agent on the job at Woape Farm in Houston County. Owner Mark Holmes raised the Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherd and Maremmano Sheepdog mix from a puppy to be a livestock guardian. Doug dedicated his life to his work guarding herds of goats, calves, chickens and pigs. Sadly, Doug passed away in the fall while guarding his flock.
Although his big bark was enough to ward off most predators, when needed, he physically protected his herds against coyotes, foxes, possum, raccoons and even bobcats. Once, Doug even protected the farm’s ranch manager by engaging a bobcat that was mere feet from
the man. A powerful dog who was known to sharpen his nails on large stones, Doug also had a softer side and enjoyed belly rubs from his human family.
“Doug was far more than a pet. He was a protector, a friend, an employee and a partner in our farm,” said Mark. “Doug was also a good father to his pups. We watched him take the time to train his puppies in how to be guardians. His pups are now guarding herds all over Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi.”
Saturdays: 8 a.m. Sundays: 6 a.m.
Thursdays: 6:30 p.m. Sundays: 11:30 p.m.
Ray D’Alessio
Jennifer Parson
Diversify your land and income streams, while continuing to farm, to earn passive income and leave a lasting legacy.
HOW IT WORKS
We’ll meet to discuss your options and determine how many acres you’d like to plant. Forest land is easier to manage, requiring less labor, and o ers you and your family recreational opportunities.
HOW YOU’LL EARN
Receive guaranteed annual payments during a 30-year contract. All profits from pre-approved timber harvests remain yours. You can also continue farming or raising livestock on adjacent acres.
HOW PLANTING BEGINS
We will cover all initial expenses, including planning and management. After that, you can relax and watch your legacy grow.
Your land holds your family’s roots, and a partial conversion to pine will help maintain that legacy. Check your eligibility at fieldsandforests.org. Fields & Forests is a tree planting program by the American Forest Foundation, available to landowners with 40+ acres.
Bridging the gap
dam Stone is a busy young man. A fifth-generation farmer, University of Georgia student, former Georgia Farm Bureau Ambassador, national Future Farmers of America project winner, and founder of Go Grow Georgia, 19-year-old Stone is on a mission to teach others about self-sustained agriculture.
While still in high school, Stone created Go Grow Georgia, a community garden initiative to combat food insecurity, encourage healthy eating and teach farming skills in his small hometown of Bowden. Stone created a cooperative garden in an area of Bowden that is considered a food desert.
“I saw a problem and found a way to fix it. Now, the garden provides free, nutritional produce to those who really need it,” he said. “The Bowden Community Garden is a tool for the community. It’s a teaching and growing space. I host clinics for people to learn about self-sufficient agriculture, at-home gardening practices and cost-efficient gardening. Minimal cost and effort with maximum yield is my goal.”
An agriculture education major at UGA, Stone is passionate about teaching people, and said after college
Former Georgia Farm Bureau Ambassador Adam Stone is on a mission
he’d love to make that his full-time job. His experience as a Georgia Farm Bureau Ambassador opened doors in that area.
“I want to go into food deserts and work with communities to get people to buy in to the idea of urban agriculture.
Bridging the gap between rural and urban agriculture is a big mission for us as GFB Ambassadors, and I fell in love with being an ambassador as soon as I got involved,” he said.
The GFB Ambassador program provided Stone the opportunity to connect with politicians and community leaders on a national scale, leading to more resources as he continues his goal of teaching people about agriculture and reaching underserved populations.
“Everything I do is a cross between my passions of helping people, feeding people and teaching them,” Stone said. “If I can show someone a smile, tell them God loves them and make sure their belly’s full, that’s all that matters to me.”
Learn how to become a GFB Ambassador today at gfb.ag/ambassadors.
A HELPING HAND
The power of community in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene
urricane Helene was one of the most destructive storms in our state’s history and we will be feeling the effects for years to come. In the weeks after the storm, many Georgians were eager to help, but didn’t know what to do or where to begin.
As a grassroots, family-focused company that employs people with a genuine commitment to help their communities, Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance served as a powerful network. Employees across the state worked together to coordinate a variety of relief efforts where they were needed most.
One example is Ray Stapleton, agency manager of Morgan County Farm Bureau. Stapleton called his friend Julie Calhoun, agency manager of both McDuffie County and Richmond County Farm Bureaus. Stapleton offered to bring a crew to Calhoun’s areas to provide hot meals for members of those communities. Calhoun and her team spread the word on social media and on the radio. Donations also started coming in from other county GFB offices that wanted to help.
On Oct. 12, 2024, volunteers set up at the McDuffie County Farm Bureau ready to provide free, hot meals
for anyone who needed it. They were joined by GFB Insurance claims staff, who were working around the clock — via generators — to process claims as quickly as possible.
“There were lines out into the street that day,” Calhoun said. “Many of these people had not had a hot meal in two weeks.”
In total, they fed 750 people — 500 in the McDuffie office and another 250 in the Richmond office.
“We made more of an impact through that event than on anything else we’ve spent money on. It feels so good to give back to our community when people are in need,” said Stapleton, who added that this relief effort was made possible by regular people coming together to help in different ways.
One of the common factors between all those volunteers was their connection to the Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance family.
“It’s our network — you spark an idea and someone will always volunteer to help with it,” said Stapleton. “You just make a few phone calls or send a text, and it comes together. We are so thankful for our GFB community.”
ArrKeicha Danzie was inspired by her dog to create a line of all-natural dog treats
GOOD BOY GOODIES
or ArrKeicha Danzie, a 10-year-old bundle of joy named Mr. Chubb is the four-legged love of her life. This won’t come as a surprise to Danzie’s husband and their human children. After all, she did start a business all on Mr. Chubb’s behalf.
“He’s the love of my life on four legs, the best — and biggest — boy and I’d do anything for him,” Danzie said.
A Great Pyrenees and Standard Poodle mix, Mr. Chubb had stomach issues when he was younger.
“When we were looking for treats for him, we couldn’t find ones with good nutritional value, that were made from quality ingredients and that were safe for his stomach. So, I began to make treats in my home for him,” Danzie said. “And then I thought, there must be other people who are as health conscience for their dogs as I am. Healthier food means better longevity, and that equals pure happiness for me because it means he stays with me longer.”
Danzie began searching for a commercial bakery to partner with — one that shared her same
mission and values when it came to dog food. She wanted her treats to be made without any fillers or artificial additives, and without wheat, corn, soy or preservatives.
“I wanted to know exactly what each ingredient was and to create high-quality, delicious treats that you can feel good about giving to your dog. They are all natural and human grade, which means the same quality ingredients you use in your cookies, we use in our treats,” she said.
In 2019, Danzie took a Mr. Chubb-sized leap of faith and quit her job as a paralegal in Macon. She won a downtown initiative grant from NewTown Macon and used the funds to start Good Boy Goodies. Initially, their point of sales were festivals and markets, but when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, all those sales opportunities disappeared. Danzie pivoted to online sales through Amazon and their own website, GoodBoyGoodies.com. She also joined the Georgia Grown network.
“It was amazing. They had so many resources and information that helped me as a business owner in
Georgia,” she said.
Now, Good Boy Goodies has grown their pawprint to sales in 200 stores in 26 states. Peanut Butter Delights are their best seller, followed by Cheesy Bacon Bites. Other flavors include Oatmeal Cinnamon Crunch and Perfect Pumpkin Pieces. If you’re wondering what to try, Mr. Chubb says get the sampler pack — he loves them all.
“We believe that good food equals good health, and that’s why we’ve included special ingredients like coconut oil and pumpkin in our treats,” Danzie said on the company’s website. “Coconut oil acts as a natural breath freshener, ensuring that your dog’s kisses are always pleasant. Pumpkin aids in digestion, keeping your dog’s tummy happy and healthy. It’s these thoughtful additions that make Good Boy Goodies stand out from the pack.”
Some would argue it’s also Danzie’s love for dogs that set these treats apart.
“I love dogs. I’ll probably remember your dog’s name before I remember your name,” she said with a laugh. “It’s heartwarming for me to provide
a product that a pet owner can give their dog without any hesitation. We are enhancing lives of dogs — and also the people who love them — one treat at a time.”
Danzie credits the support of her husband, David Danzie Jr., and 24-year-old twin children David III and Madison, for being her biggest cheerleaders in following her dreams. The family also has recently welcomed a new addition, Tuxedo the 2-year-old Bernie Doodle.
“We wanted to get another dog because Mr. Chubb is the best dog, and we wanted Mr. Chubb to train him. Even though Mr. Chubb is 10, he’s running around crazy keeping up with this puppy, and it’s got to be because of what I feed him. I’m adamant about his diet and I want to give him the very best,” Danzie said. “We don’t often talk about it, but dogs are at our mercy. They trust us to do what’s best for them. We have to be their advocate, giving them things that benefit them in the long run. Because when we know better, we can do better.”
FRESH FIXINS
CREATED BY CHEF JACOB HAMMER
With help from our Certified Farm Markets, elevate your spring dinner parties using inspiration from these recipes from Executive Chef Jacob Hammer at Husk Savannah, a restaurant noted for innovative takes on classic recipes using heirloom ingredients of coastal Georgia.
RABBIT SAUSAGE
Cure the rabbit and pork belly with salts in the refrigerator. Soak the sourdough in the eggs and cream. Caramelize the shallot and garlic, then deglaze with the bourbon. Grind together the bread mixture, shallot and garlic mixture, and meat. Mix in the spices and herbs.
SMOKED CARROTS
In a pan, gently warm carrots, butter and half of the stock. Cook down until liquids have evaporated and emulsified into a glaze. Add all herbs. Adjust glaze with remaining stock if needed.
Feeling Saucy
Toh-MAY-toh, Toh-MAH-toh. Toh-MAY-ter. With 9,997 more variations than pronunciations, tomatoes come in many colors including red, yellow, pink, purple, black and white. Learn a few more amazing facts about this versatile fruit on the following pages.
Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce is first referenced in the Italian cookbook “Lo Scalco alla Moderna” (“The Modern Steward”), written by Italian chef Antonio Latini in 1692.
Tomato Soup
Tomato soup’s built-in water content helps keep you hydrated.
Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a good source of lycopene, vitamin C, vitamin K and other minerals. It’s also high in glutamate, an amino acid that enhances flavor.
Ketchup
Ketchup was sometimes marketed as a medicine, and European doctors made ketchup tablets to treat scurvy.
