Neighbors Magazine, January 2020 by Alabama Farmers Federation

The decision to become a farmer in 2020 is a bold one. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t count on the rain. Or on crop prices. What you can count on is yourself. And the help of your fellow farmers in the Alabama Farm Credit cooperative. So, how will we take on the future and win? The same way farmers have always faced challenges. Together. W W W. A L A B A M A FA R M C R E D I T. C O M

Together We Grow.

THE SAME ASSOCIATION THAT HAS SPENT 100+ YEARS SERVING THE AG COMMUNITY HAS A FRESH NEW LOOK.

In This Issue 4 | Federation Elections

5 | Federation Holds 98th

28 | Farmhouse Kitchen

Savory Soup Recipes

Annual Meeting

11 | A.L.F.A. Leaders Class Members Announced

15 | Alabama Cotton Farm- To-Fabric Tour

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.

On The Cover

Neighbors magazine welcomes in a new year filled with hope and promise for Alabama agriculture that’s exemplified by 6-year-old Emma Gandy. Her parents are Malachi and Brooke Gandy of Troy.

Photo By Debra Davis

www.AlfaFarmers.org

EDQAM

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation

alfafarmers.org

January 2020

NEIGHBORS

YEARS ALABAMA Agriculture OF

98 th Annual Meeting By Debra Davis labama Farmers Federation leaders A were elected at the organization’s 98th annual meeting in Montgomery Dec. 9. Conecuh County’s Steve Dunn, a row crop and cattle farmer, was reelected secretary-treasurer of the state’s largest farm organization. Calhoun County’s Jon Hegeman was elected Central Area vice president, and Jake Harper of Wilcox County was reelected Southwest Area vice president. Elections were held during the

Alabama’s Largest Farm Organization Elects Leaders Federation’s business session where almost 500 voting delegates from all 67 counties chose officers and directors. Officers serve two-year terms. Dunn, who was elected to his 10th term, serves as Conecuh County Farmers Federation president and formerly served as State Young Farmers Committee chairman. Hegeman is a first-generation farmer who manages greenhouses in Calhoun and Cherokee counties. He is a former State Young Farmers Committee chairman and was American Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers & Ranchers chairman in 2015. In 2012,

Voting delegates elected members to the Alabama Farmers Federation board of directors during the organization’s 98th annual meeting in Montgomery Dec. 9. Front row from left are Secretary-Treasurer Steve Dunn of Conecuh County; Southwest Area Vice President Jake Harper of Wilcox County; Central Area Vice President Jon Hegeman of Calhoun County; and State Women’s Leadership Committee Chair Kathy Gordon of Montgomery County. Back row from left are State Young Farmers Committee Chair Jonathan Sanders of Coffee County; District 2 Director Mark Byrd of Morgan County; District 5 Director Joe Anders of Tuscaloosa County; District 8 Director Jimmy Holliman of Dallas County; and District 11 Director Mark Kaiser of Baldwin County. 4

NEIGHBORS

January 2020

Hegeman and wife Amy were named Alabama’s Outstanding Young Farm Family. The Central Area includes Autauga, Bibb, Calhoun, Chilton, Clay, Cleburne, Fayette, Greene, Jefferson, Lamar, Pickens, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Tuscaloosa and Walker counties. Harper, a cattle and timber farmer, also serves as Wilcox County Farmers Federation president. The Southwest Area includes Baldwin, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Dallas, Escambia, Hale, Lowndes, Marengo, Mobile, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Sumter, Washington and Wilcox counties. Harper served as a district director from 1988-1996 and was first elected vice president in 2003. Federation board members representing Districts 2, 5, 8 and 11 were elected or reelected to three-year terms. Morgan County poultry and row crop farmer Mark Byrd was elected to the District 2 seat, which includes Limestone, Madison and Morgan counties. Tuscaloosa County row crop farmer Joe Anders was reelected District 5 director. He serves Bibb, Fayette, Jefferson, Lamar and Tuscaloosa counties. Dallas County cattleman Jimmy Holliman was elected director of District 8, which includes Choctaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Marengo, Perry, Pickens and Sumter counties. Baldwin County cattle and row crop farmer Mark Kaiser was elected District 11 director. He represents Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe and Washington counties. Elected to one-year, ex-officio terms on the state board were Women’s Leadership Committee Chairman Kathy Gordon of Montgomery County and State Young Farmers Committee Chairman Jonathan Sanders of Coffee County. alfafarmers.org

Annual Meeting Celebrates 200 Years Of Alabama Agriculture By Debra Davis

Farmers program, which recognized contest winners who do outstanding jobs in their communities and on their elebrating 200 Years of Alabama farms. Agriculture was the theme At the meeting, elections were that brought nearly 1,400 Alabama held for the Federation state board Farmers Federation members to and Women’s Leadership Montgomery Dec. 8-9 for the and Young Farmers organization’s 98th annual committees. Outstanding meeting. county boards, committees Gov. Kay Ivey was and individual leaders also among prominent guests were recognized, along with who attended. She thanked new and outgoing county Federation members for presidents. their support of her Rebuild A tribute breakfast was Alabama program. held to honor Federation “I’m a proud daughter of leaders who passed away in rural Alabama,” said Ivey, a 2019. Wilcox County native. “One U.S. Rep. Martha Roby thing I’ve learned through was honored with the Service my time of service is that we To Agriculture Award, the are only successful when we Federation’s highest honor. are successful together.” The Federation Tommy Tuberville, the recognized former Journal FarmPAC-endorsed U.S. Tommy Tuberville, the FarmPAC endorsed U.S. Senate candidate, left, and Record Editor Les Walters Senate candidate also Federation President Jimmy Parnell received thunderous applause at the of Hamilton with its addressed members during organization’s closing banquet. Communications Award the meeting. FarmPAC is community, state or country, do not wait n print journalism for his coverage of the Federation’s grassroots political on someone else to do the leading or agricultural issues and events. organization. the changing,” Gowdy said. “If you don’t A silent auction during the meeting “Thank you for what you do,” like where something is headed, you are raised $10,640 for the Alabama Farmers Tuberville told the standing-roomthe messenger.” Agriculture Foundation, which supports only crowd. “I want to go and be your Federation President Jimmy Parnell agricultural scholarships and Alabama voice. I want to take what you want to said members are helping transform Ag In The Classroom. Washington, D.C.” their communities and the state through The Federation’s 99th annual Following Tuberville, former U.S. their involvement in policy and politics. meeting will be Dec. 6-7, 2020, in Rep. Trey Gowdy, R-S.C., encouraged He pointed to the organization’s Young Montgomery. Federation members to be messengers

New 2020 County Federation Presidents Elected alfafarmers.org

for hope and change in the upcoming elections and in their daily lives. He challenged them with two questions: “What do we believe? How do we communicate? “If you want to change your

Mike Harris Cleburne County

Ricky Cardwell Coosa County

Ashley Kelley Covington County

Derek Jackson Franklin County

Jamie Lazenby Lee County

Stanley Sumners Marshall County

Art Sessions Mobile County

Paul Wheeler Perry County

John DeLoach Shelby County

Jim Tollison St. Clair County

January 2020

NEIGHBORS

Award-Winning Young Farmers Honored At Annual Meeting By Marlee Moore Watson of Lee County triumphed Young Farmers Discussion EMeetlliein the contest Dec. 9, following a

powerful conversation with three other finalists about developing new markets for farmers. Watson, director of the state agricultural branding program Sweet Grown Alabama, competed during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s 98th annual meeting in Montgomery. As the winner, she received a four-wheeler from First South Farm Credit. “Advocating for Alabama agriculture is a responsibility I will never take lightly,” said Watson, who lives in Auburn. “I am grateful for the support of the Young Farmers Division and the opportunity to represent Alabama on a national stage.” The contest simulates a committee meeting where participants examine agricultural issues. Other finalists were Adam Wilson of Jacksonville in Calhoun County, Kyle Morris of Hanceville in Cullman County and Brad Cox of Fayette in Fayette County. Additionally, Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) winner Luke Smelley of Hale County received a prize package worth over $60,000. Winnings included $35,000 toward a new Ford truck courtesy of Alfa Insurance; a John Deere 825i Gator sponsored by Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; and a

year’s lease of a John Deere tractor from AgPro, SunSouth and TriGreen. Smelley and his wife, Lana, have five children and raise catfish and cattle in Prairie Eden. Farming must be the OYFF’s primary source of income. Excellence in Agriculture contest winners Kim and Daniel Mullenix of Opelika in Lee County were also honored. They received a zero-turn mower from Corteva Agriscience and a computer package from Valcom/ CCS Wireless. Excellence in Agriculture participants derive most of their income off the farm. Kim is Alabama’s beef systems Extension agent, while

Hale County’s Luke Smelley is the Federation’s Outstanding Young Farm Family contest winner. From left are Alabama Farm Credit’s Mel Koller; Smelley and wife Lana with children Levi, Violet, Everett, Daisy and Iris; Federation and Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell; and Alabama Ag Credit’s Doug Thiessen.

Lee County’s Ellie Watson won the Discussion Meet contest during the Federation annual meeting Dec. 9. From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Watson and First South Farm Credit’s Mike Pigg. 6

NEIGHBORS

January 2020

Daniel is ag technologies manager with Agri-AFC. They also raise beef cattle and have a son, Davis. Discussion Meet finalists, the OYFF and Excellence in Agriculture winners were named during the Federation’s Commodity Producers Conference in Chattanooga in August. The Federation’s Young Farmers Division administers these programs. Watson, Smelley and the Mullenixes next compete during expense-paid trips to the American Farm Bureau Federation national contests in January in Austin, Texas.

Lee County’s Daniel and Kim Mullenix won the Excellence in Agriculture contest. From left are Corteva Agriscience’s Cullen Wiggins, the Mullenixes and Federation President Jimmy Parnell. alfafarmers.org

Leaders Tapped For Women’s, Young Farmers Committees By Marlee Moore he Alabama Farmers Federation Tof leaders recently welcomed a new crop integral to agricultural

advocacy and organizational success during Women’s Leadership and Young Farmers committee elections. During the organization’s 98th annual meeting Dec. 8-9 in Montgomery, Kathy Gordon of Montgomery County was elected Women’s Leadership Committee chair. Jonathan Sanders of Coffee County was named Young Farmers Committee chair. Both serve one-year, ex-officio terms on the Federation’s state board. Other State Women’s Leadership Committee officers are Vice Chair Lydia Haynes of Cullman County and Secretary Ann Whatley of Lee County. Calhoun County’s Delle Bean was reelected to serve Region 2, which includes Autauga, Bibb, Calhoun, Chilton, Clay, Cleburne, Fayette, Greene, Jefferson, Lamar, Pickens, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Tuscaloosa and Walker counties. Gordon was also reelected to represent Region 3, which includes Baldwin, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Dallas, Escambia, Hale, Lowndes, Marengo, Mobile, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Sumter, Washington and Wilcox counties. Russell County’s Jo Ann B. Laney will represent Region 4, which includes Barbour, Bullock, Chambers, Coffee, Coosa, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Elmore, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lee, Macon, Pike, Russell and Tallapoosa counties. Outstanding County Women’s Leadership Committees were also recognized. They were Etowah County, Region 1; Pickens County, Region 2; Butler County, Region 3; and Coffee County, Region 4. Committees collected 1,955 pounds of pop tabs in 2019 to benefit Ronald McDonald Houses of Alabama. Lawrence County collected the most, with 411 pounds. Additionally, Young Farmers Committee officers were elected. alfafarmers.org

Members of the 2020 State Young Farmers Committee are, front row from left, Luke Smelley of Hale County, Outstanding Young Farm Family winner; Kellee Griffith of Choctaw County, District 5; Chair Jonathan Sanders of Coffee County, District 7; Vice Chair Mitchell Henry of Lawrence County, North At-Large; Secretary Leah McElmoyl of DeKalb County, District 2; and Alabama Farmers Federation Young Farmers Division Director Jennifer Christenberry. Back row from left are Brady Peek of Limestone County, District 1; Chase Hammock of Talladega County, District 3; Evan Broussard of Hale County, District 4; Daniel Mullenix of Lee County, District 6; Spencer Williamson of Escambia County, District 8; and Garrett Dixon of Lee County, South At-Large.

The 2020 State Women’s Leadership Committee is, front row from left, Chair Kathy Gordon of Montgomery County, Region 3; Vice Chair Lydia Haynes of Cullman County, Region 1; Secretary Ann Whatley of Lee County, At-Large; and Federation Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Earwood. Back row from left are Debbie Roberts of Fayette County, Region 2; Delle Bean of Calhoun County, Region 2; Debbie Freeland of Mobile County, Region 3; Debbie Dunn of Geneva County, Region 4; and Jo Ann B Laney of Russell County, Region 4. Regina Carnes of Marshall County, Region 1, is not pictured. January 2020

NEIGHBORS

Mitchell Henry of Lawrence County is vice chair, while Leah McElmoyl of DeKalb County is secretary. Limestone County’s Brady Peek was reelected to represent District 1, which includes Colbert, Franklin, Lawrence, Lauderdale, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Morgan and Winston counties. Talladega County’s Chase Hammock was reelected District 3 representative, which serves Calhoun, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Randolph, Shelby, Talladega and Tallapoosa counties. Choctaw County’s Kellee Griffith was elected District 5 representative, which includes Choctaw, Dallas, Lowndes, Marengo, Perry, Sumter and Wilcox counties. Sanders was reelected to represent District 7, which includes Barbour, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Pike counties. Serving South Alabama At-Large is Lee County’s Garrett Dixon. The area includes Autauga, Baldwin, Barbour, Bullock, Chambers, Chilton, Choctaw, Clarke, Coffee, Conecuh, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Dallas, Elmore, Escambia, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Mobile, Monroe, Montgomery, Pike, Perry, Russell, Sumter, Washington and Wilcox counties. Twelve outstanding Young Farmers county committees received Awards of Excellence. These were Baldwin, Calhoun, Cherokee, Colbert, DeKalb, Escambia, Etowah, Houston, Lee, Limestone, Montgomery and Randolph counties.

NEIGHBORS

January 2020

Federation Honors Outstanding Leaders

The Alabama Farmers Federation, the state’s largest farm organization, honored exceptional leaders during its 98th annual meeting in Montgomery Dec. 9. Individual Leader Awards were presented to those instrumental in establishing or spearheading county-level programs. Senior Leader Awards were given to outstanding leaders for service to agriculture, their communities and the Federation. From left are Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan; Patty Marsh of Limestone County, Women’s Leadership Individual Leader Award; Robert Byrd of Shelby County, Commodity Division Individual Leader Award; Jesse Touchstone of Shelby County, Young Farmers Individual Leader Award; Sharon Byrd of Dale County, who accepted the Senior Leader Award on behalf of her husband Jerry; and Meador Jones of Marengo County, Senior Leader Award.

alfafarmers.org

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A.L.F.A. Leaders Program Welcomes Class V

eventeen participants were recently S selected to cultivate professional and personal development as members

of Agricultural Leaders For Alabama (A.L.F.A. Leaders) Class V. Sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Federation, A.L.F.A. Leaders participants receive training in agricultural policy, industry leadership, effective communication and organizational involvement. The two-year program begins in May. “We’re proud to offer this agriculture-focused leadership experience for young leaders in our state,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “A.L.F.A. Leaders has the potential to impact this organization for years to come. Former class members

Drew Wendland Autauga County

Grace Ellis

Franklin County

Lee County

alfafarmers.org

Kevin Burkett

Autauga County

Gannon Nunley

Garrett Dixon

now serve on national boards, as county presidents and are strong leaders in their communities. Investing in the development of our future leaders is critical to sustaining Alabama agriculture.” Members of Class V include farmers, Extension agents, agriscience educators and industry specialists, who were chosen based on a written application and interview. Criteria included communication skills, understanding of agricultural issues, leadership skills and an interest in selfless service. Participants will enhance their knowledge through six intensive, multi-day seminars revolving around Federation operations, state

Brady Peek

Chilton County

Lucy Edwards Houston County

Limestone County

Chilton County

Scott Woodall Jackson County

Andrew Brock Marshall County

Ryan Cox

Dillon Turk

Mobile County

government, Alabama agriculture, successful leadership and more. An international agriculture experience and national affairs visit to Washington are included. “This class is an outstanding representation of the talent and potential across Alabama agriculture,” said Jennifer Christenberry, the Federation’s Young Farmers Division director who oversees the premier leadership program. “People across the state recognize the training A.L.F.A. Leaders provides, as class members serve at all levels, strengthening the future of our industry.” A.L.F.A. Leaders Class V culminates during the Federation’s 101st annual meeting in 2022.

Will Gotcher

Brad Cox

Colbert County

Anna Murphy Jefferson County

Fayette County

Mitchell Henry Lawrence County

Rachel Chastain Talladega County

Zack Brannon Winston County

January 2020

NEIGHBORS

Alabama Receives USDA Funding To Control Feral Swine

eral swine control projects in Alabama will receive $3.7 million to address the threat wild hogs pose to agriculture, Fecosystems, and human and animal health, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Nov. 21. Nationally, USDA will award 10 states more than $16.7 million. Projects are part of the Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program (FSCP) — a joint effort between USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell applauded the announcement.

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NEIGHBORS

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“We are very pleased to see additional resources being allocated to combat agricultural damage caused by feral swine,” said Parnell, who leads the state’s largest farm organization. “Increased federal funding for control efforts has been a priority for the Federation and this, in addition to increased funding through the annual appropriations process, will go a long way to support our farmers as they manage feral swine.” Alabama pilot projects, which last three years, include select watersheds in Baldwin, Escambia, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Sumter counties. Federation Wildlife Division Director William Green thanked USDA’s Fish and Wildlife Service for helping secure funding for Alabama, citing millions of dollars in damage caused by the hogs, which reproduce quickly. Studies show two mature hogs can reproduce to yield 30 hogs in as little as 8 months. Feral swine have been sighted in all 67 counties in Alabama. “Feral hogs damage forests, cattle range, and fruit and vegetable operations, as well as row crop acreage,” Green said. “No aspect of agriculture is exempt from feral swine destruction.” NRCS and APHIS are working with the Alabama Soil and Water Conservation Committee on three projects to notably reduce environmental and economic damage from wild pig rooting. Hogs damage ecosystems and compete with native wildlife for habitat and food. Additionally, wild hogs degrade water quality and pose a serious disease threat to livestock and humans. “Feral swine are the cause of significant damage to crops and grazing lands, while also impacting the health of our natural resources,” said NRCS State Conservationist Ben Malone. “By collaborating with our partners nationally and here in Alabama, our hope is to control this invasive species — improving operations for farmers while also protecting our natural resources for the future.” Other pilot project states include Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Texas. The 2018 Farm Bill provides $75 million for the FSCP over the life of the farm bill. Learn more at nrcs.usda.gov/fscp. alfafarmers.org

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HERE’S HOW THE SOY CHECKOFF WORKS. The national soy checkoff was created as part of the 1990 Farm Bill. The Act & Order that created the soy checkoff requires that all soybean farmers pay into the soy checkoff at the first point of purchase. These funds are then used for promotion, research and education at both the state and national level.

TO ELEVATORS, PROCES S N A SOR BE L S& L SE DEA S R E LER M R S FA 1/2 of 1% of the total selling price collected per the national soybean act & order

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PROMOTION

RESEARCH

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ROI TO THE FA RMER by 73 volunteer soybean farmers, the United Soybean Board * Led (USB) invests and leverages soy checkoff dollars to MAXIMIZE PROFIT OPPORTUNITIES for all U.S. soybean farmers.

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Half goes to the national checkoff for investment in USB’s* long-range strategic plan.

Agriscience and family and consumer science teachers toured Parkdale Mill in Leesburg, where they watched cotton as it was made into yarn.

Teachers Attend Cotton Farm-To-Fabric Tour By Debra Davis group of teachers from across A the state learned how cotton is transformed into thread and eventually

clothing when they attended the Farm-To-Fabric Tour in Cherokee County Nov. 15. The Alabama Cotton Producers, a division of the Alabama Farmers Federation, hosted the event, which was organized by the Alabama Department of Education as a professional development program for agriscience and family and consumer science (FCS) teachers. The tour included a visit to Cherokee Gin & Cotton Co. in Centre — the most modern cotton gin in America; a farmer panel; and a mill tour where the raw cotton was made into yarn at Parkdale Mill in Leesburg. “I was surprised with the amount of engagement we had from the teachers,” said Nick McMichen, a partner in Cherokee Gin & Cotton Co. and farmer panelist. “The teachers were really interested in how cotton is processed. Pairing the gin visit with the mill tour brought it all together for them. It allowed them to get a feel for how cotton is processed, becomes thread and eventually is clothing they wear.” Teachers observed cotton as it was unloaded at the gin, followed by the stringent cleaning process, including how seeds are separated from the fiber before it’s pressed into 500-pound bales. Farmer panel members were

alfafarmers.org

Teachers on the Farm-To-Fabric tour visited Cherokee Gin & Cotton Co., the most technologically advanced gin in the world. From left are Lauderdale County teachers Kim Walker and Denise Ells, gin partner Nick McMichen, and Tammie Dial and Katherine Graves.

McMichen, Brent Tidwell, Richard Lindsey and Rich Lindsey. In addition to growing cotton, the Lindseys also are partners in Cherokee Gin & Cotton Co. Federation Cotton Division Director Carla Hornady said the program fit perfectly with the education mission of Alabama cotton farmers. “The teachers were familiar with cotton fields, and some had toured gins, but being able to tour a gin, then the mill really brought the process full circle,” she said. The mill tour showed how the fiber is cleaned, combed and woven into thread. The mill’s parent company, Parkdale Inc., is the largest consumer of cotton in the U.S. and one of the largest

providers of spun yarn in the world. Brooks High School FCS teacher Katherine Graves of Killen described the mill tour as an eye-opening experience. “I was pretty familiar with how cotton is grown and ginned; there are three gins in Lauderdale County where I live,” Graves said. “But all the things in the mill were new to me and very interesting. I believe the average person doesn’t think about what all goes into the clothes they wear.” Graves said the Farm-To-Fabric Tour was the best professional development program she’s attended. “This program helps connect us back to farmers and the important role they have in providing for us,” she said. January 2020

NEIGHBORS

Yeager Appointed To United Soybean Board

labama farmer Wendy Yeager of A Orrville was recently appointed to the United Soybean Board (USB), an

products. A mandatory assessment of 0.5-1% of the net market price of soybeans funds USB’s work. All advisory committee that helps maximize farmers marketing soybeans, except profit opportunities for organic producers, pay the U.S. soy producers. assessment. Yeager fills Alabama’s The latest evaluation second seat on the USB, of the program’s value, newly allotted due to calculated from 1991, increased acreage the estimates a $5.20 return past several years. Pickens on investment for every County farmer Annie Dee program dollar spent. also serves on the board. The 78-member board, “It is truly an honor appointed to three-year to represent the great terms by the U.S. Department state of Alabama in such of Agriculture, represents 29 Yeager an important role for our states and oversees soybean industry,” Yeager said. “I look forward to research, promotion and education. working with others across the nation Yeager can serve up to three terms. to make positive strides for this vital Yeager and her husband, Jamie, commodity that affects everyone’s life in grow soybeans on Bell Place Farm in some shape, form or fashion.” Dallas County, in addition to cotton, The USB works to maintain and wheat, peanuts and sorghum. They have expand domestic and foreign markets two daughters, Casey and Lillian, and and uses for soybeans and soybean attend Orrville Baptist Church. Yeager

is a 2018 graduate of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s premier leadership program and was a finalist in the Outstanding Young Farm Family contest in 2013. Federation Soybean Division Director Carla Hornady praised Yeager’s appointment. “Wendy is a great proponent of agriculture and will represent Alabama well on the national stage,” Hornady said. “The USB plays a critical part in ensuring the success of soybean production in the U.S. Alabama farmers have tangibly benefited from USB’s work and will continue to do so thanks to guidance from dedicated farmers like Wendy.” Since 1966, Congress has authorized industry-funded research and promotion boards. The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) provides oversight to 21 boards, including the USB. Learn more at UnitedSoybean.org.

YOUNG FARMERS CONFERENCE 2020

February 28-March 1 Riverview Plaza, Mobile, Alabama

Registration Open Dec. 10, 2019 - Jan. 31, 2020 Register Online At AlfaFarmers.org Under “EVENTS” 16

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January 2020

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By Lois Chaplin

inter-flowering plants are all the W more precious because each appears at such an unlikely time. Of the

Alabama

winter flowers, hellebores (Helleborus) lead the season by appearing in January and continuing as winter gives way to spring. As easy to grow and well adapted as these perennials are, it’s surprising they aren’t as common as English ivy. Hellebores make a beautiful evergreen ground cover for the shade but won’t climb to choke nearby trees. By reseeding, they yield baby hellebores that gradually expand and offer new plants to dig and share. They’re also easy to remove should the plant reseed too far.

The two most common hellebores in Alabama are Christmas rose and Lenten rose. Lenten rose (Helleborus x hybridus) blooms during the Lenten season with flowers that face gently downward in a prayerful position. These pretty flowers may be white, green, pink, yellow, deep purple, slate, burgundy and shades in between. Some blooms have multiple color patterns. Most flowers are single, but some hybrids boast double flowers. According to Robert Tyler of Pine Knot Farms, a hellebore specialty nursery in Clarksville, Virginia, the new Frostkiss series blooms longer and more prolifically and does not reseed. Many

other types do reseed, often resulting in a unique mix of new seedlings. Anyone interested in a deep dive into hellebores would enjoy the open house at Pine Knot Farms in late February and early March. Visit pineknotfarms.com to learn more. The next most popular Hellebore is Christmas rose (Helleborus niger), which flowers in early January with a clump of white blossoms held above the foliage. The earlier bloom time and white flowers of Christmas rose make it easy to distinguish from Lenten roses. Hellebores are suited to the shady north side of a structure, the edge of the woods and anywhere in deciduous woods — especially hillsides, where they appreciate good drainage provided by a slope. A hillside shows off downward-facing blooms, too. All hellebores grow under 2 feet tall. In showy locations, clipping off old, larger leaves helps uncover flowers hidden by the foliage. The plants prefer rich, moist soil that drains well but are surprisingly tolerant of dry shade once established. Good drainage is a must. Tyler recommends fertilizing with an organic fertilizer in the spring and fall. Garden companions include early spring bulbs such as snowdrops (Galanthus) and daffodils. Both hellebores and daffodils contain toxic compounds that shield them from most rodents and deer — another plus when gardening near the woods. Hopefully you’ll now be on the lookout for hellebores in the neighborhood, nearby botanic gardens, garden centers and maybe in your yard. Fall and winter are the best times for planting. Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

Welcome To Wonderful Winter Deals E ALAFARM.COM 18

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January 2020

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NEIGHBORS

January 2020

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THE BIG DAY

’m at a wedding for my friend. His son is getting married. On stage: eight former Little-Leaguers wearing rented tuxes. They still call my pal “Coach." I used to help lead his son’s practices. The boys never called me anything but “HEY, HEY, HEY!” Anyway, conversations at weddings are happy. And this is reason enough for attending. Because at weddings, nobody talks about jerk-bosses or politics. Plus, they have free beer. I’m sitting beside a woman named Miss Rhonda, who has snowwhite hair. She tells me about her granddaughter, studying biology at Alabama. The fella on my right is Uncle Of The Groom. He sells scratch-and-dent appliances in Atlanta and begins each sentence with, “Let me tell you somethin’ right now.” Then, the back doors shut. The music changes. And let me tell you somethin’ right now, I love weddings. A ﬂower girl ﬁrst. Then siblings. Next: The cast of “The Golden Girls." They’re wearing entire rose gardens. My friend’s son is an all-American groom. His whole life was a ball game because of his daddy. A cracker-jack pitcher. Driven student. A few wild nights but nothing serious. He decided not to play college ball. Instead, he went into the arts. He’s a bar musician now. He loves it. His daddy does not. They haven’t spoken

much over the years. Not even during the World Series. Today, however, the coach is proud. Funny. It wasn’t long ago the groom was eating ice cream on my tailgate. He and his pals used to ﬁght over who could make the loudest bodily noises. Now they’re old enough to disappoint their daddies. Piano music plays. Doors open. The audience stands. Men button coats. Women smile. Let me tell you something right now; we’re a reverent bunch of Baptists. The groom sees her. He swallows. Smiles. Swallows. Wipes his eyes. Sorry, Ace, no relief pitchers today. Miss Rhonda is crying. So am I. She hooks her arm around mine and says, “Aren’t you a little softy?” The bride and groom recite their own vows. Thus, before God and Alabama, he promises to love her through bad health, pitiful ﬁnances, unemployment, AC repairs, bad dogs, parental problems and whatever else the Devil throws at them. Even death. They have no idea what they’re getting into. That’s how it should be. When it’s over, the coach blows his nose and wipes his eyes. I have never seen this man cry. “Man,” he says. “That’s a good boy I got. Think he’ll ever forgive me?” If you tell him what you just told me, I believe he will, Coach. With all my heart I do. ■

Public Notice

By Alabama Pork Producers And National Pork Board

The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2021 National Pork Producers (Pork Act) Delegate Body will take place Feb. 4, 2020, at 1 p.m., in conjunction with a Board of Directors meeting of the Alabama Pork Producers Association in the State Boardroom of the Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center at 300 Tallapoosa Street in Montgomery, Alabama, during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Commodity Organization Meeting. All Alabama pork producers are invited to attend. Any producer who is a resident of the state, at least 18 years old, is a producer of porcine animals or its representative, and has paid all assessments due, may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or participant in the election. All eligible producers are encouraged to bring with them a sales receipt proving that hogs were sold in their name and the checkoff deducted. For more information, contact: Alabama Pork Producers, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, AL 36191-0001; call (334) 6125181; or email rdurrance@alfafarmers.org.

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NEIGHBORS

YOUR CHECKOFF DOLLARS WORK FOR YOU elevators • processors • grain dealers

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1-cent per bushel of grain is collected for the state checkoff

The Alabama State Wheat & Feed Grain Committee allocates funds for research, marketing and educaiton. Led by 12 farmer-directors, the committee works to cultivate WHEAT & FEED GRAIN profitability for farmers statewide.

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The Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) honored producers and partners at its conference and trade show in Clanton Nov. 21-22. From left are AFVGA President Taylor Hatchett, Amy Millron of Alabama Farmers Cooperative, which received the Partner Of The Year Award; Arnold Caylor, retired Cullman Horticulture Research Station director, who received the Service To Horticulture Award; Wes Isom of Isom’s Orchard, who received the AFVGA Achievement Award; Chilton County Extension Coordinator Gay West, who received a Recognition Award; and AFVGA Executive Director Hunter McBrayer.

Conference Focuses On Future Of Fruit And Vegetable Farming In Alabama By Debra Davis s awareness and popularity of A locally grown fruits and vegetables continues to rise, so has interest in

producing those crops in Alabama. Nearly 200 farmers from around the state were in Clanton Nov. 21-22 at the Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) Conference and Trade Show. The event featured hands-on training, wholesale marketing ideas, integrated pest management strategies, updates on federal labor laws and introduction of Sweet Grown Alabama — the state’s new agriculture branding program. Chase Hammock and Pete Baker, partners in Four Mile Farms Produce in Childersburg, said hearing from experts and networking were invaluable. “Every year, I meet someone new or get something that I need,” said Baker, a four-time conference attendee. “Farming is more than putting seeds in the ground. That’s where these experts come in. Their trials help save us time and money.” Hammock, who was a first-time

NEIGHBORS

January 2020

conference attendee, said the sessions about food safety and the federal H2A labor program were particularly helpful. “This conference has been a good place to get training and opened my eyes to new aspects of fruit and vegetable farming,” said Hammock. “The panel about H2A was the best. We got to hear real details about the program from the farmer’s perspective.” The conference also recognized outstanding leaders and partners in the state’s produce industry. Arnold Caylor, retired director of the Cullman Horticulture Research Station, received the AFVGA Exceptional Achievement Award. Wes Isom of Isom’s Orchard received the Achievement Award, and Chilton County Extension Coordinator Gay West was recognized for her outstanding contributions to the organization and the fruit and vegetable industry. The Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC) was recognized as the AFVGA Partner Of The Year. AFC is a premier sponsor of AFVGA and the conference. AFC’s Amy Millron accepted the award for the company.

Sweet Grown Alabama Director Ellie Watson discussed the new state branding program.

AFVGA is a division of the Alabama Farmers Federation, the state’s largest farm organization. Federation President Jimmy Parnell said the conference and trade show provide a great opportunity for new and experienced farmers to network and learn from each other. “Conference speakers provided a wealth of knowledge to those interested in growing fruits and vegetables,” Parnell said. “There are new labor laws, modifications in the cottage food industry and changes in use of crop protection products. This conference provided a forum to address all those important issues and more.” AFVGA Executive Director Hunter McBrayer said farmers at the conference were optimistic about the future of the fruit and vegetable industry in Alabama. “The launch of a new state branding program — Sweet Grown Alabama — is something that will benefit every farmer in Alabama, especially those who grow fruits and vegetables,” McBrayer said. “Consumers are eager to buy locally sourced food, and Alabama has the climate and water to expand production to meet those needs.” alfafarmers.org

By Alabama Catfish Producers Alabama Catfish Producers will go to the polls Thursday, January 16, 2020, to decide whether the state catfish checkoff program should be continued for five more years at the current rate of $1.00 per ton of feed manufactured or sold in Alabama. Producers who have purchased feed within 30 days of the referendum will be eligible to vote. The first-ever Alabama catfish checkoff program was approved by a 91.7% vote in 1989. Alabama law requires a statewide producer referendum be held every five years on whether the program should be continued. If approved, checkoff funds would be used to finance research, education and promotion activities aimed at further developing the state’s multi-million-dollar catfish industry. Funds collected from feed manufacturers are remitted to the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, which transmits the funds monthly to the Alabama Catfish Producers, a division of the Alabama Farmers Federation. A producer committee representing Alabama Catfish Producers members determines how the funds are distributed to advance the industry. Polling stations will be at the following locations: Dallas Co. – Alfa Office, Selma (Broad St. location) Greene Co. – Alfa Office, Eutaw Hale Co. – Alabama Fish Farming Center Marengo Co. – Alfa Office, Linden Perry Co. – Alfa Office, Marion Sumter Co. – Alfa Office, Livingston Catfish farmers may petition to have additional poll locations in counties that are not listed above. Those requests must be received in writing no later than January 9, 2020. Additional poll locations will only be added if the request is justified by the Alabama Catfish Producers. Alabama catfish farmers will be able to vote between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. at their county polling sites on the date of the referendum. No proxy voting will be allowed, and no ballots will be accepted by mail. For more information, contact Mitt Walker at 1-800-392-5705, ext. 4757, or by email at mwalker@alfafarmers.org.

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NEIGHBORS

Alabama Extension Launches Farming Basics App By Ann Chambliss use technology more than FIn aarmers ever to help with day-to-day tasks. physically demanding and rapidly

developing industry, farmers lean on GPS, web information, online courses and timely answers to keep up. The Farming Basics app from Alabama Extension is a science- and research-based information gateway for small and beginning farmers. The app will serve as a pocket guide to help growers answer questions in the field. Ayanava Majumdar, an Alabama Extension specialist, has brought the Alabama Extension Beginning Farmer Program and online course to life with help from industry partners. “The Beginning Farmer Program is a statewide effort supporting new farmers with an emphasis on veterans and underserved communities,” Majumdar said. “The Farming Basics app will change the way we interact with our growers.” Majumdar said it will allow producers to react to pest and disease situations promptly and with confidence.

Farming Basics App

The Farming Basics app includes

information about major pests and diseases, horticultural crop descriptions and general management tactics. It also features a fertilizer and irrigation calculator to help farmers save on input costs. Other features include crop and pest alerts, location services that include contact information for regional Extension agents and an activity calendar linking to upcoming meetings and field days. Regional Extension Agent Neil Kelly helped develop material for the app. He said he believes it’s a crucial gadget in a producer’s toolbox now and for years to come. “This is researched information at the farmer’s fingertips,” Kelly said. “It is a platform we can continue to build on each year, improving and changing as needed.” Jayme Oates, owner of Farmscape Solutions, agrees the app is fully functional for farmers in the field. “The app does a fantastic job connecting farmers with experts and expert information,” Oates said. “Accessible and easy to use, it’s a great tool for farmers who are on the go.” Karen Wynn of Rosita’s Farm said the app is a great tool for Southern growers needing quick answers.

“The pest and disease identification sections have already proven useful,” said Wynn, who is also a soil consultant. “I especially appreciate the management recommendations that focus on life cycles and cultural controls.”

About The Beginning Farmer Program

The Alabama Beginning Farmer Program has a wide array of resources for all types of farmers. The overall implementation plan involves collaboration with a wide range of institutions, producer groups and nonprofit organizations for supporting beginning farmers statewide. The Beginning Farmer Program currently provides intense, on-farm guidance to more than 60 beginning farmers, including military veterans, women and socially disabled individuals. The advisory service has an 85% adoption rate and has increased yields by improving crop quality and reducing insecticide use with pest prevention. The Farming Basics app is available through Apple and Android app stores.

Taco Soup Prep Time 5 mins

Cook Time Servings 20 mins 6 to 8

Ingredients

his time of year, my family is always Tcomforting. looking for recipes that are warm and But after the decadence and hustle of the holidays, we also like for them to be easy and maybe a little lighter. So many times, soup just fits the bill for us. Soups are filling, relatively easy and can warm you through on those cold winter evenings. This month, I’m sharing some of my most favorite soup recipes with you. Potlikker Soup combines so many of my favorite Southern foods all in one comforting bowl. Greens, black-eyed peas, ham and more give this dish its signature flavor. And though it’s not really made from the potlikker left after cooking greens, the flavors combine perfectly to give you that amazing taste. This one is perfect with some piping hot cornbread served beside it. My mom makes seriously amazing vegetable beef soup, but it can take a full day to make when all is said and done. I wanted something with similar flavor that didn’t take so long. This Quick and Easy Vegetable Beef Soup has all the flavor of the classic dish but with a lot less work. Ground beef, potatoes, tomatoes and your other favorite veggies make up this hearty soup supper. Just make sure to

NEIGHBORS

January 2020

1 1/2 pounds ground beef 1 onion, chopped 1 (15-ounce) can black beans 1 (16-ounce) can pinto beans 1 (16-ounce) can kidney beans 1 (15.25-ounce) can whole Stacey’s s kernel corn Recipe Note ts en m re su 1 (10-ounce) can Can mea to d n ra b m o diced tomatoes fr might vary se u u yo as g with green chilies n brand. As lo e, es th to se (like Ro*Tel) o cl something st ju rk o w 1 (14.5-ounce) ill w the recipe can petite diced n’t have fine. They do t. tomatoes ac ex to be 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes The bran 2 (1-ounce) packets taco of taco se d seasoning will drasti asoning ca 2 (1-ounce) packets the flavo lly change r of ranch dressing and Choose y this soup. ou seasoning mix Mine hap r favorite. pens to b e 2 cups water McC

add vinegar at the end. ormick. Vinegar might seem like an odd ingredient, but it gives this soup a punch of flavor that the short cook time could leave out. If you can brown some meat and open a few cans, then you can make this easy peasy Taco Soup. This has been a cold weather favorite in my family for as long as I can remember. It packs a punch of flavor and takes just a few minutes to make. I love this served over white rice but have eaten it with corn chips as well. It’s even great just by itself. The shredded cheddar and sour cream on top are a must for me. I also love a comforting creamy soup, and this Super Simple Broccoli Cheese Soup is just that. I developed this recipe with busy families in mind, so it comes together pretty quickly and doesn’t require a bunch of fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. Sometimes the best dishes are made with simple, straightforward ingredients, and you just can’t go wrong with cream, broccoli and cheese. Seriously, there’s a soup here for just about everyone and every taste. Y’all are going to love how quick and easy these are, too. Grab a bowl and a spoon because soup’s on. Y’all enjoy!

Optional

Cooked white rice Corn chips Sour cream Shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions In a large stock pot over mediumhigh heat, brown the ground beef with the onion. Once cooked through, drain the grease and return the mixture to the pot. Drain and rinse the beans before adding to the pot. Drain corn and add to the pot. Add the undrained tomatoes, along with the taco and ranch seasoning and water. Stir to combine. Heat until boiling. Reduce and simmer 10 to 15 minutes. Serve over rice or with corn chips. Add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, if desired.

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. alfafarmers.org

Quick And Easy Vegetable Beef Soup

Prep Time

Cook Time

Servings

15 mins

30 mins

4 to 6

Ingredients

Instructions

1 pound lean ground beef 1/2 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 (32-ounce) carton beef broth (4 cups) 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped into 3/4-inch chunks 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, undrained 1 (16-ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables Salt Pepper 1 tablespoon white vinegar

In a large stock pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Return meat to the pot and add onions. Cook about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for about a minute. Add beef broth and chopped potatoes. Bring to a boil. Cook about 5 minutes, then add the tomato sauce, tomatoes and mixed vegetables. Return to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cover.   Cook until potatoes and vegetables are tender. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in vinegar just before serving.

Super Simple Broccoli Cheese Soup Prep Time

5 mins

Cook Time

Servings

35 mins

Ingredients

Easy Potlikker Soup Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 30 mins

Servings 6 to 8

Ingredients 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 pound smoked ham, chopped (about 3 cups) 1 large onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 8 cups chicken broth 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen chopped collard greens (or other green of your choice) 1 (15.5-ounce) can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed 1 (28-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, drained Salt and pepper

Instructions Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ham and onion. Cook 5 to 7 minutes or until onions are translucent. Add the garlic and cook about a minute more. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the greens. Bring back to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer 20 minutes. Add the peas and tomatoes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook an additional 10 minutes. alfafarmers.org

1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 yellow onion, finely diced 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 4 cups chicken broth 2 cups half-and-half 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 (20- to 22-ounce) package frozen broccoli florets, thawed 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Salt and pepper

Instructions In a heavy-bottomed stock pot or Dutch oven, melt butter, then cook onions over medium-low heat until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Sprinkle flour over onions and stir well. Cook about 3 minutes. Gradually add the broth and stir to combine after each addition. Add half-and-half, salt and garlic powder. Stir well. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring very frequently, being cautious not to scorch. Add the thawed broccoli and stir well. Cook over medium-low until the broccoli is tender. If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup to a smoother consistency.  Add the cheese and stir until it has melted. Add salt and pepper to taste. January 2020

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