Neighbors Magazine, January/February 2024 by Alabama Farmers Federation

Meet New

Women’s and Young Farmers Chairmen

Cultivating

Cabbage

Annual Meeting Highlights

January/February 2024 | Volume 49 | Number 1 Marlee Jackson | Editor Laura Unger | Graphic Designer

In This Issue 4 | Annual Meeting Focuses on Faith, Family, Farming 7 | Cattle Expert Recognized for Building Relationships

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.

10 | Young Farmers Take Home Extensive Prize Packages

POSTMASTER Send address changes to Neighbors P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001

Flight Feb. 26-29

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.

28 | Soup Season Made Simple

18 | Gambling Tops Legislative Priorities as Session Starts 21 | Drone Conference to Take 4

On The Cover

Coleman McKenzie’s family is a big-time cultivator of cabbage in Baldwin County. Demand grows for the staple winter ingredient leading up to New Year’s Day and classic luck-inspiring dinner menus. Photo By Maggie Edwards

www.AlfaFarmers.org

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation

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January/February 2024 | NEIGHBORS | 3

Faith, Family, Farming Frame Annual Meeting

Ricky Wiggins of Covington County addressed peers after receiving the Federation’s Service to Agriculture Award during General Session II.

By Marlee Jackson flurry of activity filled downtown Montgomery Dec. 3-4 as A 900 Alabama Farmers Federation members descended on the state’s capital to elect leaders, honor individuals and enact policy changes. The theme Faith, Family and Farming reflected members’ values and guided work during the organization’s 102nd annual meeting. That included opening sessions with prayer and allowing ample time for fellowship, said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “Lord knows we need to talk to folks who think like we do,”

said Parnell, citing the divisive political climate and difficult economy. “We need time to visit with each other. This meeting is one way we can do that while taking care of business.” That business included honoring members of the Federation family. Ricky Wiggins of Covington County received the Service to Agriculture Award, while Tommy Brown of Chilton County was honored with the Cultivator Award. (See page 7.) Senior Leader Awards were presented to Mickey Childers of Morgan County and Leo Hollinger of Wilcox County. Additionally, 45 counties were honored for excellent programming in 2023. They were Baldwin, Barbour, Blount, Calhoun, Cherokee, Choctaw, Clarke, Clay, Coffee, Colbert, Coosa, Crenshaw, Cullman, Dale, DeKalb, Elmore, Escambia, Etowah, Fayette, Franklin, Henry, Houston, Jackson, Jefferson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Lee, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Mobile, Montgomery, Morgan, Pickens, Pike, Russell, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Tallapoosa, Tuscaloosa, Walker and Winston counties. Select counties received Awards of Excellence for Women’s Leadership and Young Farmers programs, while exceptional Young Farmers were honored for winning statewide contests. (See pages 8-11.) The annual meeting included elections for state board members, the Women’s Leadership Committee, the State Young Farmers Committee and state commodity committees. (See pages 6, 8-9 and 12.) It also offered opportunities for farmers to visit with sponsors, including Alfa Insurance. At Alfa’s booth, farmers signed up for paperless documents for farm policies, a move that will increase efficiency as new tools come online

Left: Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth shared ideas with Federation District 4 Director Steve Lake of Cullman County. Middle: Federation Secretary-Treasurer Steve Dunn of Conecuh County visited with Alabama Supreme Court Justice Greg Cook. Right: Gov. Kay Ivey hailed farmers for their work at the closing banquet. 4 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

alfafarmers.org

Clockwise from top left: Alabama farmers heard updates on agriculture-related Supreme Court cases from American Farm Bureau Federation Deputy General Counsel Travis Cushman; Fox & Friends Weekend Co-Host Pete Hegseth offered an energetic keynote address to close the annual meeting; Blount County farmer Tim Whitley signed up for paperless farm policy documents with Alfa Insurance’s Amy Baker; Matthew and Amanda Watson of Mobile County perused items in the popular Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation silent auction; Pastor David Phillips, a former State Young Farmers Committee chair from Clay County, led an inspiring devotion during the Tribute Breakfast.

in 2024. A video detailing Alfa’s strong performance during 2023 played during the opening banquet, followed by the Federation’s annual report. During the annual meeting, the perennial favorite silent auction raised $12,400 for the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation (AFAF), thanks to gift baskets, furniture crafted by FFA chapters and assorted goods donated by counties. AFAF also hosted a Tribute Breakfast, which honored 33 leaders who died in the last year. “A true leader is always committed to the cause,” said Pastor David Phillips, the Tribute Breakfast speaker. “These people we’ve been honoring are good leaders.” Phillips is a former State Young Farmers Committee chair from Clay County and is familiar with the Federation’s robust annual meeting agenda, which included a business session. Before voting on policy recommendations, farmers alfafarmers.org

attended an Ag Issues Briefing. American Farm Bureau Federation Deputy General Counsel Travis Cushman gave background on his organization’s work related to Waters of the U.S., plus California’s farm regulatory overreach. That evening, Gov. Kay Ivey addressed the farm community during the closing banquet. “Agriculture is woven into the very fabric of our state,” said Ivey, who was raised on a Wilcox County farm. “The success of our economy and the health and well-being of our people rely on farmers.” A keynote address from Fox & Friends Weekend Co-Host Pete Hegseth followed. A veteran, Hegseth commended the group for its conservative values. “I love the motto of what you’re doing here,” said Hegseth, noting the meeting’s Faith, Family and Farming theme. “The first place we should go is to the Bible, to the good news.” Hegseth’s energetic speech intertwined family tales with remarks on education, government and the 2024 General Election. “Things are so sideways and so backwards,” he said. “The most radical thing you can do these days is tell the truth. If we grow boldly…we have a fighting chance.”

Scan to view more meeting photos! January/February 2024 | NEIGHBORS | 5

Farmers Elect Peers to Federation State Board By Marlee Jackson our hundred sixty-two farmers from the Gulf Coast to the Tennessee Valley gathered in Montgomery Dec. 4 to Fconduct business for the state’s largest farm organization.

Agenda items included voting on policy and electing nine leaders to the Alabama Farmers Federation state board. Steve Dunn was among those elected during the group’s 102nd annual meeting. The Conecuh County row crop and cattle farmer was reelected to his 13th two-year term as secretary-treasurer of the 354,000-member-strong Federation. Meanwhile, Jon Hegeman and Jake Harper were chosen to serve two more years as vice presidents. This is the third term for Hegeman, a Calhoun County greenhouse owner. His Central Area includes Autauga, Bibb, Calhoun, Chilton, Clay, Cleburne, Fayette, Greene, Jefferson, Lamar, Pickens, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Tuscaloosa and Walker counties. Harper of Wilcox County now begins his 11th term serving the Southwest Area, which covers Baldwin, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Dallas, Escambia, Hale, Lowndes, Marengo, Mobile, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Sumter, Washington and Wilcox counties. Harper manages a timber and cattle farm. Additionally, farmer-delegates elected four peers to three-year terms as district directors. David Bailey of DeKalb County was chosen to serve District 3, which includes Cherokee, DeKalb, Etowah and Jackson counties. Bailey is a poultry farmer and replaces board member John Bert East of Cherokee County. Shelby County’s Phillip Hunter is beginning his third term serving District 6 farmers. That territory covers Calhoun, Clay, Cleburne, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair and Talladega counties.

Federation President Jimmy Parnell and Secretary-Treasurer Steve Dunn helped lead the organization’s annual business session. From left are Dunn, Parnell, Executive Secretary Wendy Golson and Executive Director Paul Pinyan. 6 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

2024 ELECTED BOARD MEMBERS

Steve Dunn Secretary-Treasurer

Jon Hegeman Central Area Vice President

Jake Harper Southwest Area Vice President

David Bailey District 3

Phillip Hunter District 6

Bill Cook District 9

Jerry Peak District 12

Debbie Dunn Women’s Leadership Committee Chair

Dillon Turk Young Farmers Committee Chair

Hunter owns and manages a tree farm. Bill Cook of Montgomery County was reelected to represent District 9, which covers Autauga, Butler, Chilton, Lowndes, Montgomery and Wilcox counties. Now in his third term, Cook grows timber. He’s retired from the commercial greenhouse business. Serving District 12 is newly elected Jerry Peak, a poultry and cattle farmer from Geneva County. His district includes Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston counties. Peak replaces Thomas Adams of Henry County. During the business session, delegates approved nominations for Debbie Dunn and Dillon Turk to lead the State Women’s Leadership Committee and State Young Farmers Committee, respectively. Geneva County’s Dunn lives on a row crop and cattle farm, while Turk of Mobile County manages his family’s ornamental nursery. Dunn and Turk will also serve one-year, ex-officio terms on the state board, where they’ll gain deeper understanding of Federation business and the organization’s connection with Alfa Insurance. alfafarmers.org

Brown Honored for Impact on Community, Cattle A L A B A M A

F A R M E R S

F E D E R A T I O N

Above: Tommy Brown, left, is a Chilton County farmer, retired Extension agent and cattle genetics specialist whose work has improved farmers’ profitability for decades. He’s worked closely with farmers across Alabama, including those in Federation Area 5 Organization Director David Heflin’s region. Right: Federation President Jimmy Parnell presented Brown the Cultivator Award.

By Marlee Jackson ommy Brown has a penchant for helping people. T A retired Alabama Extension agent, Brown spent decades cultivating community, investing in youth

and improving farmers’ bottom lines. For that and more, Brown received the Alabama Farmers Federation Cultivator Award Dec. 4 during the organization’s annual meeting in Montgomery. The award honors leaders who foster relationships to benefit farmers, Federation members and rural communities, said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “Tommy has had a tremendous impact on Alabama,” Parnell said. “He cares about making people, and their cattle, better. That’s worth recognizing.” A self-described “educated cowboy” from Hackneyville in Tallapoosa County, Brown spent the bulk of his career in Chilton County. Brown showed steers as a teen, and his homegrown passion fueled work helping youth raise functional, practical livestock. But lessons extending beyond the showring were Brown’s priority. “Learning responsibility and learning to lose were more important to me than learning to win,” said Brown, a two-time graduate of Auburn University who competed on the collegiate livestock judging team. “I’d rather have a blue-ribbon kid with a red-ribbon calf. We were developing people.” alfafarmers.org

C U LT I V A T O R

A W A R D

As Brown’s career progressed, he zeroed in on cattle genetics. Brown was a pivotal leader in Alabama’s Beef Cattle Improvement Association (BCIA), touting the importance of performance data and record-keeping to generate higherquality cattle. His work helped increase average weaning weights from 400 pounds to more than 600 pounds, an industry-changing result, Parnell said. “Farmers in this state and across the nation respect Tommy and have used his genetics program to improve their cattle herds,” said Parnell, a Chilton County cattle producer. “He has directly impacted farmers’ profit margins. That’s more important today than ever.” Brown built a strong network across agriculture as he presented educational programs or judged cattle shows in nearly every Alabama county. Integral programming included BCIA heifer sales, the Herd Builder Replacement Sale and board sales for small feeder cattle producers. An honest, humble man, Brown has earned accolades for his work. Brown is a lifetime director of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association and member of its Alabama Livestock Hall of Fame; was inducted into the Alabama Agriculture Hall of Honor; and served on the American Simmental Association board. One of his greatest achievements, however, was serving as president of the international Beef Improvement Federation. Brown retired in 2003, serving his final five years as a regional animal science specialist at the Black Belt Regional Experiment Station. Since hanging up the Extension hat, he’s picked up several others, including serving as genetic and marketing director for Sunshine Farms from 2004-2013. He currently manages genetics for Next Step Cattle Co. He also enjoys time with his children, Lee and Jill, their spouses and three grandchildren. His wife, Linda, passed in 2020. Brown manages a small cattle herd with his son-in-law, Brad. It’s a peaceful reminder of a career serving others. “The main goal of Extension in the old days was to help farmers, get data that was proven and help them implement it,” he said. “If I could be out there helping people, that’s what I was going to do.” January/February 2024 | NEIGHBORS | 7

South Alabama Farmers Elected Chairs of State Women’s, Young Farmers Committees By Maggie Edwards eneva County’s Debbie Dunn and Mobile County’s Dillon Turk were elected to lead the Alabama Farmers G Federation State Women’s Leadership Committee (WLC) and

State Young Farmers Committee, respectively, during the 102nd annual meeting in Montgomery Dec. 3-4. As committee chairs, Dunn and Turk will serve one-year, ex-officio terms on the Federation state board. On the WLC, Rachel Chastain of Talladega County was chosen to serve as vice chair, and Carla Trantham of Calhoun County was elected secretary. Serving Region 1 is Lisa Lake of Cullman County. Region 1 includes Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Franklin, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan and Winston counties. Lake replaces Cullman County’s long-time state committee member Lydia Haynes, who served six years. Amy Belcher of Montgomery County will serve Region 3. This includes Baldwin, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Dallas, Escambia, Hale, Lowndes, Marengo, Mobile, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Sumter, Washington and Wilcox counties. Belcher replaces Mobile County’s long-time volunteer-leader Debbie Freeland, who served six years. The WLC At-Large representative is Debbie Miller of Mobile County. Miller replaces Ann Whatley of Lee County. Outstanding county committees were also honored during the annual meeting. They were Cherokee County, Region 1; Lamar County, Region 2; Sumter County, Region 3; and Chambers County, Region 4.

Additionally, 44 counties were presented Awards of Excellence. They were Autauga, Blount, Butler, Calhoun, Chambers, Cherokee, Choctaw, Clarke, Clay, Cleburne, Coffee, Coosa, Crenshaw, Cullman, Dale, DeKalb, Elmore, Etowah, Fayette, Franklin, Geneva, Houston, Jefferson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Lee, Limestone, Lowndes, Marion, Marshall, Mobile, Montgomery, Pickens, Randolph, Russell, Shelby, St. Clair, Sumter, Talladega, Tallapoosa, Tuscaloosa, Wilcox and Winston counties. Meanwhile, Young Farmers ages 18-35 elected leaders during an annual business meeting Dec. 3. District 5’s Denzil Dees of Sumter County was elected vice chairman, in addition to his reelected position serving Choctaw, Dallas, Lowndes, Marengo, Perry, Sumter and Wilcox counties. Natalie Lee of DeKalb County will serve as secretary and continue representing District 2’s Blount, Cherokee, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Jackson, Marshall and St. Clair counties. Forrest Anders of Morgan County was chosen to serve District 1, which includes Colbert, Franklin, Lawrence Limestone, Madison, Marion, Morgan and Winston counties. Anders replaces James Hereford of Madison County, who served a two-year term. Jordyn Upchurch of Clay County will serve District 3. This includes Calhoun, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Randolph, Shelby, Talladega and Tallapoosa counties. Upchurch replaces Randolph County’s Ben Johnson, who served the committee three years. Reelected for District 7 was Emmanuel Bankston of Henry County. His district includes Barbour, Coffee, Covington,

2024

Regina Carnes Region 1

Lisa Lake Region 1

8 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

Amy Belcher Region 3

Debbie Dunn Chair, Region 4

Rachel Chastain Vice Chair, Region 2

Carla Trantham Secretary, Region 2

Dixie Black Region 3

Monica Carroll Region 4

Debbie Miller At-Large alfafarmers.org

Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Pike counties. Bart Williams of Autauga County was reelected the South At-Large representative. This includes Autauga, Baldwin, Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Chambers, Chilton, Choctaw, Clarke, Coffee, Conecuh, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Dallas, Elmore, Escambia, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Mobile, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Pike, Russell, Sumter, Washington and Wilcox counties.

Brady and Anna Peek of Limestone County will serve an ex-officio role on the committee as Alabama’s Outstanding Young Farm Family. Fourteen Young Farmers committees were recognized for outstanding work, active participation and community involvement. They were Calhoun, Chambers, Clay, Elmore, Henry, Houston, Lee, Limestone, Marshall, Mobile, Montgomery, Talladega, Tallapoosa and Winston counties.

2024 COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Dillon Turk Chair, District 8

Denzil Dees Vice Chair, District 5

Natalie Lee Secretary, District 2

Forrest Anders District 1

Jordyn Upchurch District 3

Cal Logan District 4

Jonathan Edgar District 6

Emmanuel Bankston District 7

Landon Marks North At-Large

Bart Williams South At-Large

Brady & Anna Peek OYFF, Ex-Officio

alfafarmers.org

January/February 2024 | NEIGHBORS | 9

Elite Young Farmers Honored at Annual Meeting By Maggie Edwards group of elite Young Farmers rose to the top during the A Alabama Farmers Federation’s 102nd annual meeting Dec. 4 in Montgomery. Winners included Discussion Meet champion Greyson Lauderdale of Limestone County, who received a four-wheeler from First South Farm Credit. Discussion Meet simulates a committee meeting where participants discuss solutions to agricultural issues. Lauderdale was one of four finalists announced during the organization’s Farm & Land Expo in August. He, alongside Miller Bonds of Limestone County, Caleb Beason of Franklin County and Gavin Rankins of Chambers County, competed for the title during General Session II. Additionally, Winston County farmer and Extension coordinator Zack Brannon was recognized as the Excellence in Agriculture winner. He received a zero-turn lawnmower

Top: Discussion Meet winner Greyson Lauderdale received a four-wheeler from First South Farm Credit. From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Lauderdale, and First South’s Keith McCurdy and John Sport. Above: Zack Brannon won a zero-turn lawnmower from Corteva Agriscience as the Excellence in Ag winner. From left are Corteva’s Jacee May, Parnell and Brannon. 10 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

As Alabama’s OYFF, Brady and Anna Peek received a prize package worth more than $70,000 at the Federation’s annual meeting. From left are the Peeks with son Ridge, Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Alabama Ag Credit President Doug Thiessen and Alabama Farm Credit President Mel Koller.

from Corteva Agriscience and won the contest based on an application and presentation. Excellence in Agriculture competitors receive less than half their income from production agriculture. Brannon and wife Hannah are raising daughters Elliott Grace and Vivie Mae on their hay and cattle farm. Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) winners Brady and Anna Peek were also honored. The Peeks received a prize package worth more than $70,000, including $40,000 toward a new Ford truck, compliments of Alfa Insurance; a John Deere 825i Gator sponsored by Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; and a year’s lease on a John Deere tractor, thanks to John Deere, TriGreen and SunSouth. The Peeks raise row crops in Limestone and Lauderdale counties and have diversified their farm to include trucking, custom harvesting and agritourism. They have a son, Ridge. OYFF competitors must have half their income subject to production risk and compete through an application, interview and on-farm judging. Whit and Amanda Lovelady of Talladega County and Mitchell and Rebecca Henry of Lawrence County were recognized as OYFF first and second runners-up, respectively. Both received $500 from perennial sponsors Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit. As first runner-up, the Loveladys received the year’s use of a Kubota tractor from new sponsor Kubota. They raise hay and have Charolais, Angus and commercial cattle. The Loveladys have two children, Annagrace and John Luke. Meanwhile, the Henrys received a custom chemical alfafarmers.org

From left are Federation Young Farmers Division Director Hunter McBrayer and President Jimmy Parnell; OYFF first runner-up Whit, Amanda, Annagrace and John Luke Lovelady; and Kubota’s Stuart Morris and Michael Stanley.

From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell; Corteva’s Jacee May; OYFF second runner-up Mitchell, Rebecca and Clint Henry; and Federation Young Farmers Division Director Hunter McBrayer.

package from Corteva. They raise stocker calves, have a cow-calf operation and grow many of their own feedstuffs. They have a son, Clint. OYFF and Excellence in Agriculture champions were announced during the Farm & Land Expo. All winners

received a Solo Stove, compliments of the Federation and Alfa. Lauderdale, Brannon and the Peeks represented Alabama during American Farm Bureau Federation national competition in Salt Lake City, Utah, in mid-January.

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Leaders Selected for State Commodity Committees By Tanner Hood labama Farmers Federation grassroots leaders received high A praise when voting delegates elected

peers to commodity committees during the organization’s 102nd annual meeting Dec. 3 in Montgomery. State commodity committees are as effective as ever, said Federation Governmental & Agricultural Programs Department Director Mitt Walker. “The process of allowing farmers to select the best among their peers for

Shep Morris of Macon County caught up with Carl Sanders of Coffee County before commodity committee elections at the Federation’s 102nd annual meeting.

William Crawford of Shelby County presented his reasons for wanting to join the State Wildlife Committee prior to voting at the Federation’s 102nd Annual meeting. 12 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

these committees has bolstered each group’s influence and resilience,” Walker said. “These members understand present and future issues facing agriculture. Our exceptional group of commodity directors is prepared to work with members to determine strategy, improve profitability and strengthen Alabama agriculture.” Walker said the Federation relies on policy recommendations from state committees to shape and direct the organization’s work. For the third year, elections took place during the year-end meeting, where Brooks Wall of Shelby County was newly elected to the State Forestry Committee. Wall said he looks forward to working with fellow committee members to promote his commodity and protect Alabama timber land. “With any large industry, there are complications that will arise,” Wall said. “I’m ready to work with many talented and bright people to solve those problems, grow the forestry business and improve it the best we can.” State committees provide commodity-specific educational programs across the state throughout the year, in addition to guiding research, promotion and education efforts. Cade Grace of Walker County said he’s grateful to serve farmers and help ensure checkoff funds are allocated to initiatives that benefit all producers. “Being on the committee gives us the chance to sit with others who might have different perspectives and experiences,” said Grace, who was elected to his second term on the State Soybean Committee. “We’re well-represented from all parts of Alabama, so we can promote programs that help farmers across the state.” Federation staff will work with committees to dive deep into distinct issues surrounding each of the organization’s 17 commodities: bee & honey; beef; catfish; cotton; dairy; equine; forestry; greenhouse, nursery & sod; hay & forage; fruit & vegetables;

In addition to elections, state commodity committee members who served the maximum nine years were honored for their contribution. They were: Bee & Honey Justin Hill, Calhoun County

Beef Larry Bowen, Randolph County Tim Whitley, Blount County

Cotton Richard Lindsey, Cherokee County Equine Frank Chirico, Coffee County

Forestry Emory Mosley, Washington County Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod Brian Keller, Mobile County Hay & Forage Joe Ching, Mobile County

Sheep & Goat Charlie Loveless, Calhoun County Melissa Palmer, Elmore County

Wheat & Feed Grain James Walker, Lauderdale County peanuts; pork; poultry; sheep & goat; soybean; wheat & feed grain; and wildlife. Catfish, fruit & vegetable and peanut elections are held outside the annual meeting. Catfish producers met at the Catfish Industry Update Meeting Jan. 11 in Marion Junction. The Alabama Peanut Producers Association and Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association will gather during corresponding conferences in Dothan and Gulf Shores. The affiliated Alabama TREASURE Forest Association will vote later in 2024.

Scan to see election results! alfafarmers.org

Meet State Women’s Leadership Committee Chair

Debbie Dunn Debbie Dunn will use her special, gentlebut-firm way with words as State Women’s Leadership Committee chair. She and husband Steve are longtime Federation members and farm in Geneva County.

By Marlee Jackson ebbie Dunn’s love for language D impacted hundreds last year through encouraging invocations she

led as the Alabama Farmers Federation State Women’s Leadership Committee (WLC) vice chair. Her way with words will reach further in 2024. Committee members named Dunn chairman during the Federation’s annual meeting in December. “I want to make sure women have a voice and are able to tell the story of farming with others, whether it’s going into schools and sharing a book or helping with farm tours,” said Dunn of Geneva County.

14 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

Through her year of service, the retired teacher will tap into skills honed in the classroom and at her family’s farm on the Alabama-Florida line. “You can be in two places at one time,” said Dunn with a grin as she and husband Steve zigzagged between states while checking cows behind their home near Samson. The skills at Dunn’s disposal include a gracious personality, quick smile and spirited speech, said Federation Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Earwood. “Her way with words is just one of her talents,” Earwood said. “Debbie has a way of making everyone feel at ease. She’s so welcoming.”

In addition to leading the nine-person state committee, Dunn will learn intricacies of Alfa Insurance as a Federation state board member. She’ll also build on her strong Federation foundation. Dunn’s county work began thanks to support from Sharon Turner, a fellow Geneva countian and former State WLC chair. Turner encouraged Dunn to run for the state committee in 2018. For three decades, Dunn taught elementary students, an ideal inroad for promoting WLC programs like Ag in the Classroom and Farm-City contests. Dunn now chairs the flourishing Geneva County Farm-City Committee, which scored big statewide wins last year. Steve is proud of his wife’s work. The row crop and cattle farmer said WLC members are uniquely positioned to advocate for agriculture. “Women play a vital role in what happens on the farm,” said Steve, the Geneva County Farmers Federation president. “When it comes to education, ladies can get children’s attention quickly. That’s the key to getting them going down the right road.” This year, Dunn hopes to lead by example while inspiring excitement and resiliency in WLC volunteerleaders. A two-time cancer survivor, Dunn taught while earning two master’s degrees and raising sons Ira and Sam. She also refined a passion for prose as she read books and led writing exercises for fellow teachers. That passion prepared her to share thoughtfully crafted invocations last year. It also helped her pen an adaptation of poet George Ella Lyon’s free-verse work “Where I’m From.” “I’m from a farm in Alabama, where the mornings are welcomed by the birds blessing the sun and where I’m tucked in at night by the switching off of the tractor and the lowing of the calves. This is where I call home…” Many farm families can relate to her story, Dunn said before speaking the final stanza. “I’m from late-night suppers… waiting for the sun to set and close the day, waiting for the old farmer to come in from the barn seeking comfort and rest. I’m from a farm in Alabama.” alfafarmers.org

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Meet State Young Farmers Committee Chair Dillon Turk By Maggie Edwards obile County’s Dillon Turk never M outgrew his childhood nursery in Semmes.

Marshall, 4, McLain, 2, and Lottie, 1.” Turk and Hannah, a Eufaula native, met at AU while she was studying supply chain management. “I love raising my family on the nursery,” said Hannah, 29. “Watching Dillon teach the kids is special. I’ve developed a love for this industry and the organizations we are part of.” Those organizations include the Federation, which Turk became involved in following a trip with the Mobile County Farmers Federation (MCFF) to the Sunbelt Ag Expo in Moultrie, Georgia. “After that, I was invited to a county Young Farmers meeting and was

am eager to take,” Turk said. “Each step compounds on itself. It can be hard to balance work, family and Federation, but it’s worth it because of the help and relationships the organization gives me.” Turk’s leadership is a blessing, said Federation Young Farmers Division Director Hunter McBrayer. “It’s inspiring to see Young Farmers like Dillon be hands-on in a three-generation farm,” McBrayer said. “My granddaddy was my best friend when I was growing up. When I was small enough to ride behind his tractor seat, that’s what I did. It makes me happy to see Dillon share those values as he works with his dad and Pop.”

“I grew up playing out here,” said Turk, riding through his family’s wholesale container nursery. “This was my summer job. The older I got, the more serious it became. By high school, I knew this was what I wanted to do forever.” Turk’s passion to spend life in agriculture led to his newly elected position as the Alabama Farmers Federation State Young Farmers Committee chairman. “It was always clear that Dillon had a dream to work outside,” said Bill Turk, the young leader’s father. “It wasn’t unusual for him to spend hours with his grandfather in the tractor or out in the nursery with me.” Martin’s Nursery was founded in 1973 by Turk’s maternal grandfather, Buddy Martin. The family farmland, Left: Dillon and Hannah Turk raise their three children — Marshall, 4, McLain, 2, and Lottie, 1 — on the family nursery once a dairy, gradually shifted in Semmes. Right: Martin’s Nursery was founded by Turk’s maternal grandfather, Buddy Martin, right. Bill Turk, center, from an 8-acre nursery to joined the family business in 1990. Together, three generations oversee the nursery’s daily work. its current 160 production acres in azaleas and other ornamentals. While chairman, Turk will serve a selected as county chairman in 2017,” Turk’s hard work and love for the term on the Federation state board, said Turk, who now serves on the MCFF outdoors helped him earn a horticulture where he will develop an understanding board. “Ever since then, I have been degree from Auburn University (AU). welcomed and embraced on the county, of Federation policy and Alfa Insurance. Since returning to his roots, he has “I don’t know where I would be district and state levels.” added 20,000 three-gallon native without my Federation involvement,” That role as MCFF Young Farmers landscape trees to the nursery’s variety. Turk said. “As chair, I am excited to chair steered him toward a position on “Pop (Buddy Martin) never pushed help people learn and get plugged the Federation State Young Farmers me to come back, but he made it known Committee and a seat in Class V of in just like I did. This is a chance to I was welcome and had a place here,” spend time and build relationships with Agricultural Leaders for Alabama, the said Turk, 29. “Now I get to share it with experienced farmers while encouraging organization’s elite leadership program. my wife, Hannah, and our three children, Young Farmers.” “Every opportunity that comes up, I 16 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

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Gambling, Labor Participation Sign up for weekly legislative updates! among Legislative Issues By Tanner Hood ambling is expected to be among G top legislative priorities for the Alabama Farmers Federation when the

2024 Regular Session convenes Feb. 6 in Montgomery. Recent talks among legislators include gaming expansion — a clear contrast to the conservative values of Alabama farmers who constitute the state’s largest grassroots organization, said Federation Agricultural Legislation Director Preston Roberts.

Federation Opposes Gambling

Listen to the Attorney General’s AgCast.

On a recent episode of the Federation’s Alabama AgCast, Attorney General Steve Marshall discussed legislators’ desire to address problems with illegal games of chance through regulating and expanding legalized gambling. “Gambling is a criminal offense that should be enforced at the local level,” Marshall said. “I think the law is clear and, in fact, do not urge a change.” Rumored expansions include a statewide lottery, full casino gaming at new and existing locations, and legalized online (often sports) betting. “Talks of establishing a commission to curb illegal gambling are growing,” Roberts said. “The Federation, along with numerous groups across the state, believe gambling would increase government, make the poor poorer, and lead to personal and societal harm, including addiction and debt.” 18 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, left, discussed gambling issues in the state with Federation External Affairs Department Director Brian Hardin on a recent Alabama AgCast.

Currently, bingo and parimutuel betting on horse or dog racing are allowed in some Alabama counties through local constitutional amendments. Those same activities are allowed on Poarch Band of Creek Indian tribal land due to federal law. “I don’t think a commission is a solution at all,” Marshall said. “I think that is more a way of hiding the true incentive, which is to pass laws and enhance the ability to gamble in the state of Alabama.” The Federation opposes all forms of gambling. The organization’s grassroots leaders are strongly encouraged to reach out to local legislators regarding gambling before and during the session, Roberts said.

Other Legislative Priorities

Meanwhile, Federation State Legislative Programs Director Russ Durrance said Alabama’s labor force participation is lagging other states at 57.1%. “Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainsville, created a

committee last session to address the issue and raise participation rates,” Durrance said. “We’re ready to hear results and help provide new ways of getting people back to work.” Also in the works is a bill to exempt agricultural fencing materials from state sales tax. It’s backed by Sen. Jack Williams, R-Mobile, a cattle and timber farmer. The Federation’s Roberts hailed the bill, which will promote proper livestock handling and protection for farmers while giving an added benefit for hard work. Other priorities the Federation’s External Affairs team will monitor include school choice, health care enhancements, ethics reform and funding for ag initiatives and research.

Member Engagement Is Key

Federation External Affairs Department Director Brian Hardin said his team works diligently to promote farmers and conservative values in conversations with legislators. “We’re thankful for strong leadership in the House and Senate,” Hardin said. “In 2022, Federation members helped elect men and women we believe share our values. As lawmakers tackle tough topics like gambling, it’s vital they hear from Federation members. Our grassroots efforts can’t end at the voting booth. We must continue to communicate with legislators about issues that are important to Alabama families.” The last possible day of the legislative session is May 21. Hardin urged members to contact their area organization directors to set up visits with legislators during the session. alfafarmers.org

Sanford Earns Entry to Cotton Hall of Fame

labama notched its third member A of the Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame in December.

contributions to cotton are evident, from working on the farm bill to promoting the Boll Weevil Eradication Program.” Jimmy Sanford of Prattville Sanford has been part of every was inducted into the farm bill discussion since prestigious group during 1981 and is a champion Cotton Inc.’s annual for securing agricultural meeting. Former Alabama research funding, Hornady honorees are Sykes Martin said. Past honors for of Courtland and Hugh public policy work include Summerville of Aliceville. induction into the Alabama Sanford’s entry is thanks Agriculture Hall of Fame to the Autauga County and netting the Cotton farmer’s unwavering Achievement Award. In an commitment to cotton. That early 2023 article touting includes his integral role the latter, Sanford said Sanford in formulating farm policy, industry involvement grew said Alabama Farmers Federation from his upbringing. Cotton Division Director Carla Hornady. “I view myself as a leader-servant,” Hornady works closely with the Alabama he told Cotton Grower magazine. “I Cotton Commission, which Sanford has say it that way because ‘leader’ is an chaired for three decades. adjective. My calling is as a servant. “Mr. Jimmy doesn’t work to be I want to be involved in a leadership recognized. He works because he loves position if a group calls me to do it. I cotton, Alabama and, most importantly, love policymaking in the policy arena.” his family,” Hornady said. “His An Auburn University graduate,

20 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

Sanford serves on his alma mater’s board of trustees. He’s president of the Autauga Quality Cotton Association, chairs Choice Cotton and manages his family farm. Past roles include leading the National Cotton Council and Southern Cotton Growers, plus serving on Alabama Power’s board. He’s a family man, too. He and wife Dot have three children — Susan, Catherine and Will. Cotton Inc. President and CEO Berrye Worsham thanked Sanford and fellow inductees for their service to cotton. Additional 2023 honorees were the late Dick Hardee of Mississippi and late Murray Williams of Oklahoma. “Over the past several decades, the cotton industry has continued to evolve, shaped by innovation and strong leadership,” Worsham said. “The 2023 Hall of Fame inductees embody these attributes, and they have played a crucial role in the advancement of the industry with their tireless dedication and commitment.”

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scan to

2024 CONFERENCE | FEB. 26-29

Drone Skills

Take to New Heights

By Katie Nichols

t’s not a bird. It’s not a plane. It’s a drone — and a big one at that. Residents could soon see more of these drones flying over fields across Alabama, as farmers and consultants adopt drone technology. Drone use is a hot topic for Alabama agricultural producers. To help, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System is hosting the second annual Spray Drone End-User Conference Feb. 26-29 at The Lodge at Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores.

Backed by Research Steve Li, an Alabama Extension weed specialist, has made drones a priority for his research team, as farmers look for better spraying options in small or waterlogged fields. Li began focusing on drone use in field crops in 2019. Now, he’s one of the leading experts in unmanned aircraft system (UAS) applications for agriculture. “Three years ago, we began working with drones and precision technologies,” Li said. “Now, we are heavily focused on delivering crop protection chemicals — including herbicide, fungicide and insecticide — as well as other chemicals farmers typically use on the farm with these new technologies.” Li utilizes drones to

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make applications in smaller or inaccessible fields. His team applies chemicals via drones in field trials throughout the state and records data to give farmers an idea of what results to expect if contracting with a drone company. He is also determining best management practices for drone operators. This includes ideal speed, time management and application rates. Since 2022, Li’s research and outreach efforts have included approximately 100 field trials, 42 live-drone demonstrations, many educational presentations and regular social media posts about spray drones. These efforts have reached more than 154,250 people across 25 countries and six continents.

DRONE

End-User Conference

The first Spray Drone End-User Conference was held virtually in 2023, reaching 220 people. This year, Li and his team are offering the conference in a hybrid format. “The conference was the most comprehensive end-user-focused spraying event in North America in 2023,” Li said. “We are so excited it is back for 2024.” The following sessions, and many others, will be covered during this year’s conference: u Technical demonstrations on several of the latest spray drone models and live swath testing. u Regulatory updates. u Presentations and panel discussions from renowned researchers, equipment manufacturers and experienced drone operators. u A technical session focusing on spray drift management and drone repair. There are two registration fees. Registration for in-person attendance is $350 but will increase to $450 after Jan. 31. Registration for fully remote attendance is $200 and will increase to $250 after Jan. 31. Remote attendees will have access to all presentations but will not have access to panels and field demonstrations. Recordings of the presentations will be available to all participants after the conference. For more information, visit the conference’s web page at aces.edu or contact Li at steveli@auburn.edu.

January/February 2024 | NEIGHBORS | 21

McKenzie Farms Continues Leafy Green Legacy

Above: McKenzie Farms in Fairhope focuses on cabbage production from fall to late winter. From left are Austin, Tommy, Mike and Coleman McKenzie. Right: Mike McKenzie, right, delivered almost 40,000 pounds of cabbage to the Heart of Alabama Food Bank in Montgomery Dec. 12 through a partnership with Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries (ADAI). He is pictured with ADAI’s Don Wambles.

By Maggie Edwards ows of leafy greens extend farther R than the eye can see at McKenzie Farms in Baldwin County.

Those greens carpet the Fairhope fields from fall to late winter. This includes broccoli, cauliflower and collards for the retail farmers market, plus heads of cabbage for the wholesale business, Mike McKenzie said. “Our cabbage season kicks off in September, with continual planting of green and red cabbage until early November,” Mike said. “We get in the field to harvest at the start of December. Because we plant in intervals, we cut our crop until March.” The harvest is done in two ways — 22 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

hand cut and via mechanization, thanks to a special cabbage harvester added three years ago. “We’ve always been a family operation,” Mike said. “My granddad and dad started vegetable farming in the 1960s. We’ve continued the cabbage crop since then.” That original farm has grown to 1,400 acres of row crops and produce operated by Mike; his brother, Tommy; and other family members. With 25 acres of cabbage (around 250,000 plants), Mike and Tommy rely on their respective sons, Coleman and Austin, to take leadership on the farm. “We all have our certain jobs, but we can all do everything around here,” said Mike, who serves on the Baldwin

County Farmers Federation board with his brother. “Coleman and Austin are involved in the day-to-day decisions. They are following in our footsteps and getting involved with the Federation and Young Farmers.” A diverse operation, McKenzie Farms grows, packs and ships its own products. “Cabbage comes out of the field and goes to its destination within 24 hours,” Mike said. “We truck our produce to distribution warehouses for restaurants, grocery stores, food banks across the state and local schools.” Those food bank and school deliveries are through partnerships with the Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries (ADAI). “The Local Food Purchase Agreement (started in 2022) has allowed ADAI to purchase $11.38 million of products from Alabama farmers like the McKenzie brothers and donate it to food banks,” said ADAI’s Don Wambles. “They recently joined the Farm to School program, which helps incentivize those who are serving Alabamagrown items in their Child Nutrition Programs.” Baldwin County’s year-round growing season allows the farm to produce red potatoes, watermelons and other summer fruits and vegetables. In 2018, the family opened McKenzie Farm Market. A year later, they joined Sweet Grown Alabama and continue serving the community with locally grown goods, said the Federation’s Blake Thaxton. “It’s encouraging to see their farm continue this crop,” said Thaxton, also the Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association executive director. “We have very few cabbage farmers in the state. There is a demand for farm-fresh cabbage, especially in the winter months when folks are gearing up for their New Year’s Day meal.”

Scan to learn more about McKenzie Farms! alfafarmers.org

Forage Experts Visit Alabama Operations

Forage experts from across the U.S. explored ryegrass variety trials during a farm tour Jan. 10 at the Gulf Coast Research and Extension Center in Fairhope as part of the American Forage and Grassland Council Annual Conference.

By Tanner Hood experts from across the nation visited Alabama farms in Baldwin Fandorage Monroe counties Jan. 10 during the

American Forage and Grassland Council (AFGC) Annual Conference. “It’s awesome to host so many from all over,” said Greg Kaiser of Kaiser Farms in Seminole. “Everything changes drastically the farther you travel from here. It’s good to show the attendees some things they’ve probably never seen and give them new ideas.” Greg and his brother Mark, the Alabama Farmers Federation District 11 director, manage the hay and cattle farm in south Alabama.

Greg Kaiser of Kaiser Farms in Baldwin County spoke with forage scientists from across the U.S. about his family’s hay and cattle operation. alfafarmers.org

“We raise cow-calf pairs and grow bahiagrass and annual ryegrass, and we’ve started perennial peanut hay production on approximately 40 acres,” Kaiser said. “We also practice limit grazing. We turn our cows out on grass for five to six hours a day, and they stay happy and healthy.” The group of over 100 scientists then traveled to the Gulf Coast Research and Extension Center (GCREC) in Fairhope where Alabama Extension researchers presented recent ryegrass study results. Attendees also learned about the pressures facing farmers in high-growth areas like Baldwin County. That includes increasing land prices and water runoff concerns. GCREC Associate Director Todd Frank echoed Kaiser’s sentiments on hosting AFGC members and conference attendees. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase what research we offer and show our new crops,” Frank said. “The guests are looking at our forages, ryegrass variety trials and cover crops and how those are used for our cattle. This shows a totally different aspect than they’re used to, and we hope they get good ideas.” Clemson University Climate-Smart Extension Associate Hannah Malcomson said she gained a wealth of knowledge during her first trip to Alabama. “Coming down here and seeing the passion for grasses has been exciting,” Malcomson said. “The conference and

tours have been a great mixture of academia and what producers need to know. It’s fun to learn from people all over the industry.” The tour culminated with a stop at Tim Tucker Farms in Uriah. Tucker provided rolls of peanut hay for attendees to examine while presenting his use of drone-applied ryegrass as a cover crop. Federation Hay & Forage Division Director Chris Prevatt hoped guests garnered unique information and experiences during the tour. “We’ve presented some the best of hay and forage operations in south Alabama, and I think many of the guests are leaving with new knowledge and ideas to apply to their research and on their farms,” Prevatt said. “There aren’t many opportunities to see this kind of production in the nation. I’m proud of what our farmers have done today and do every day.”

Legal Notice To: Directors, officers, delegates and members of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association You are hereby notified that the directors of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association, in accordance with Section 1, Article IV, of the By-Laws of the Association, has scheduled its annual meeting as follows:

Time:

11:15 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024

Place:

Volunteer Building, National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, 231 South, Dothan, Alabama January/February 2024 | NEIGHBORS | 23

Youth Leadership Conference Develops Selfless Servants Above: Headland High School sophomore Luke Lawson assembled a wooden helicopter as part of the conference service project. Left: Federation staff delivered toys built during the Alfa Youth Leadership Conference to Children’s of Alabama for patients to enjoy during the Christmas season.

Galloway — a veteran, double amputee and Purple Heart recipient — shared his story of tragedy to triumph. Using his mantra “no excuses,” the Birmingham native taught students the importance of never giving up while always finding a way to make their lives and others’ better. His parting message was, “Don’t be average. Be exceptional.” Laubach built on Galloway’s work through high-energy and high-impact workshops. Laubach, a professional trainer and presentations coach, guided students to understand their strengths while acknowledging and overcoming weaknesses. Lincoln High School sophomore Cristen Haynes said the speakers were intriguing and pushed her outside known limits. “Through engaging us, it was easier for us to develop and demonstrate the qualities we were learning,” the Talladega County native said. “It was the most inspirational and motivating conference I’ve attended.”

H O TO S

AN SC

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AN SC

service and excellence during the Alfa Youth Leadership Conference. Students spent two days at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana networking, hearing from expert speakers and honing newfound skills through games and workshops. For many, the highlight of the conference was the final activity, a service project for patients at Children’s of Alabama. “This shows us many kids don’t have the privilege we do and allows us to use teamwork to give back to others who are struggling. It also teaches us to be grateful for what we have,” said Hayden Whatley, a sophomore at Lee-Scott Academy in Lee County. “Before coming here, I didn’t have much confidence to step up and lead, but moments like this have taught me how to be better.”

OT OS

ighty-seven high school sophomores E and freshmen from across the state spent Nov. 13-14 learning the values of

Attendees assembled an array of wooden race cars, helicopters and fighter jets as Christmas gifts for children at the hospital. Alabama Farmers Federation staff delivered the toys following the conference. Whatley said building the simple toys allowed the group to express leadership values like selfless service. The annual conference is hosted by the Federation and sponsored by Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit. Students are financially supported by county Farmers Federations. This year’s conference was the second consecutive year with 200-plus applicants. Federation Young Farmers Division Director Hunter McBrayer said the increase in applicants is no coincidence. “This conference has become a premier experience because of how extraordinary the students are,” McBrayer said. “These young people come and develop necessary life skills and have fun while doing it. We also invite engaging speakers who show our attendees their potential. They then go and tell others about the great time they had.” Character development sessions were hosted by professional speakers Noah Galloway and Rhett Laubach.

By Tanner Hood

High school sophomores and freshmen from across Alabama participated in fun and engaging character-building activities during the 2023 Alfa Youth Leadership Conference. 24 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

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AN AMERICAN WOMAN

he was slight. Elderly. She had an old kitchen that was lit up with smells and colors. There is no place better than the humble kitchen of an American woman. The linoleum floor. The enamel table with chipped edges. The stove with the stubborn oven door. Brillo pads. And the smells. I could live and die in a good kitchen. She was dusting her counters with flour on the day I interviewed her. She covered those countertops in snow, the way our ancestors did. She wore what looks like a cobbler’s apron. Two pockets. Floral. She kneaded dough with frail hands. If you are ever lucky enough to see an elderly woman take out aggression on a lump of lifeless dough, you are lucky enough. When I visited her, I was on a drive from Atlanta to Birmingham. Her son asked me to visit. I had 30 minutes. She wanted to make one of my favorite casseroles, one I mentioned in my books a few times. I’m not sure it has a proper name. It has little diced potatoes, mountains of cheese and — this is crucial — cornflakes. When I was a kid, there was a lady in our church who made this casserole for every get-together. As an adult, I have yet to find it. It’s probably not stylish for modern women to put cornflakes on top of piles of cheese. But this woman made more than just casseroles. She cooked for funerals, baby showers, anniversaries. She had a squadron of recipes. Batter frying was a specialty. She fried anything from yardbirds to watermelon rinds. Her butter beans were traditional — nine beans, 50 sticks of butter. I ended up staying several hours while she cooked. At first, I was taking

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notes on my legal pad. Then I got swallowed up with the smells. When the cornflake casserole was done, she covered it in foil and handed me the glass dish. She said, “Promise me you won’t eat it until you get to your hotel and you’re off the highway.” A mother through and through. We said goodbye, I drove away. The casserole sat in my front seat. When I hit Douglasville, I peeled back the tin foil to look. By Villa Rica, I dug in with a plastic spoon and drove with my knees. By Tallapoosa, half the casserole was gone; the other was on my shirt. I wrote a column. Then I sent it to her. She read it and told me she liked it but it embarrassed her. Here’s how our phone conversation went: HER: Sean, it was a sweet story, but I’m afraid if you publish it, well...my friends will think I’m stuck up...and I don’t want anyone thinking I’m proud. ME: Yes, ma’am. I understand. HER: I’m sorry, I know you worked real hard on it. ME: It’s alright. HER: Did you like that casserole? ME: I adored it. HER: Did you wait until you got to the hotel to eat it? ME: I absolutely adored it. I told her I wouldn’t run the story, but we kept in touch by email. Mostly, she sent me chain letters or forwarded corny jokes from her friends. Then I got another email. It was sent by her son to her whole family. Attached was an unpublished story. There was an accompanying note: “She was the best woman I ever knew.” I would tell you more, but she wouldn’t want anyone to think she was proud. I hope God likes cornflakes. ■

January/February 2024 | NEIGHBORS | 25

February the Prime Time for Pruning

By Brian Brown roper pruning is essential to P invigorate more growth in plants, promote flowering and create an overall

healthier plant. Winter is a great time to prune your landscape plants, but you need to know a little about those plants before making the first cut. It’s important to know what kind of plant you have. If it’s a flowering tree or shrub, there is a rule of thumb referred to as “the May rule.” If the plant blooms before May 1, prune after it blooms. If after May 1, prune before it blooms. This can be a little confusing. Think of azaleas. They are early blooming shrubs, so you should prune them after they bloom. If you prune azaleas (or any early blooming shrub) in the late winter, you will cut off the flower buds. An exception is hydrangeas, but this also depends on the type hydrangeas in your landscape. When in doubt, reach out to your local Alabama Cooperative Extension System home grounds agent for help identifying the hydrangea in your landscape. That will then tell you when to prune. When deciding what to prune,

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start with the three Ds. Remove dead, damaged and diseased branches. Then, you can move on to the three Cs. Remove crossing, crowding or competing branches. Take your time, and step back every few cuts to assess progress and identify the next cuts. Occasionally, severe pruning is needed to reshape an overgrown plant. Winter is the perfect time for this renewal pruning. This practice involves cutting the shrub down to just a few inches from the ground. It may be startling at first, but by the end of the season, you will have a much healthier and properly sized shrub. Plants that can easily become overgrown, such as Chinese hollies and Chinese fringe flower (Loropetalum), are excellent candidates for renewal pruning. On Christmas Eve 2022 and in March 2023, Alabama experienced hard freezes that caused severe damage to landscapes. Most plants survived, while some completely died. For plants that did survive, many had severe damage. If this happens again, pruning all dead material is recommended. Leaving it could allow diseases and insects to attack the plant.

It’s important to use the right tools when pruning landscape plants this winter. Make sure to sanitize those tools afterward to prevent spread of disease.

Choosing the right tools is critical when pruning trees and shrubs. Don’t attempt to cut large branches and limbs with hand pruners. Sanitize your tools, too, especially after pruning diseased material. Options include spraying them with a 10% bleach solution or using alcohol. Learn more about proper pruning and other landscape needs by calling your local Extension home grounds agent or visiting aces.edu.

January/February 2024 | NEIGHBORS | 27

Southwestern Stew

By Glenda Cardwell, Coosa County Prep Time 5 mins

Cook Time 30 mins

Servings 6 to 8

Ingredients 1 pound ground beef 1 medium onion, chopped 2 envelopes taco seasoning 2 envelopes dry buttermilk dressing mix 2 (16-ounce) cans dark red kidney beans, drained 2 (16-ounce) cans pinto beans, drained 2 (16-ounce) cans black beans, drained 2 cans white shoepeg corn 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel

Instructions In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef and chopped onion. Drain and transfer to a large stockpot or slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients. Stir to combine and simmer slowly until ready to serve.

ow that the busyness of the holidays chicken works beautifully. N and new year are behind us, I love While Cheese Tortellini Soup is a taste like it’s simmered all day. settling into the slower pace of winter favorite of my whole household, Stuffed with foods that fit the cozy mood. There is nothing better than coming home to a house filled with the smell of a rich soup or stew. Nestled away from the cold weather, meals like these are one of my favorite ways to relax and unwind with my family at the end of a long day. With that in mind, this month, I want to share a few go-to recipes for ladling up comfort. First up is Cheese Tortellini Soup. This soup has all the flavor of chicken noodle but with the bonus of bursts of cheese tortellini. The best part is you can get it done in about 30 minutes! Sometimes I make it a little heartier by simply adding two cups of cooked, shredded chicken. Leftover rotisserie

28 | NEIGHBORS | January/February 2024

Cabbage Soup will always have a special place in my heart. I created this recipe by adapting my mom’s recipe for stuffed cabbage. My mother has always been a wonderful cook, and just one taste of this soup takes me back to my childhood. Last but certainly not least, I am honored to share a recipe from Alabama Farmers Federation family member Glenda Cardwell of Coosa County. Glenda has been cooking meals since she was 12 years old and, after decades of marriage, surely knows her way around the kitchen. Her delicious Southwestern Stew, originally shared in the August 2012 issue of Neighbors, is a timesaving meal that will

I hope you, like me, are looking forward to all the possibilities in the year ahead. It is my prayer that we each will take time to live in the moment, focus on the people we love and store up treasures of memories that will warm us for years to come. Until next time,

Stacey Little 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

SEE IT ON

Stuffed Cabbage Soup Prep Time Cook Time 15 mins 35 mins

Servings 8 to 10

Ingredients 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 1 small onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 (28-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, undrained 3 cups vegetable juice (I use V8) 3 cups beef broth 1 cup rice 1 medium head cabbage, cored and chopped Salt Pepper

Instructions In a large stockpot or very large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown ground beef. Once it starts to brown, add chopped onion and cook until beef is no longer pink. Drain grease from the pan. Return meat mixture to the pot over medium heat. Stir in garlic and cook about 1 minute. Add undrained tomatoes, vegetable juice and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then stir in rice. Reduce heat to a simmer and add cabbage. Stir well. Cook covered 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender and rice is fully cooked. Generously add salt and pepper to taste. Add additional vegetable juice if you’d like a thinner soup.

30-Minute Cheese Tortellini Soup Prep Time 5 mins

Cook Time 25 mins

SEE IT ON

Servings 6 to 8

Ingredients 2 tablespoons butter 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced 3 celery ribs, thinly sliced 1/2 large onion, thinly sliced 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 (32-ounce) containers chicken stock or broth 1 (19-ounce) package frozen cheese tortellini

Instructions In a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat, melt butter. Add carrots, celery and onion. Cook 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add stock and bring to a rolling boil. Boil about 10 minutes, then add tortellini. Cook about 5 minutes, or until tortellini is cooked through and starts to rise to the top. alfafarmers.org

January/February 2024 | NEIGHBORS | 29

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PAID

Alfa Farmers membership dues when you spend $7,200 annually2

Contact your local Alfa Insurance office and apply today! farmbureau.bank • 800.492.3276 * Rates disclosed as Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and are subject to change without notice. APRs will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Introductory APR is applicable for ﬁrst 9 months from account opening date. After that, your APR will return to the current rate indicated on your statement. If timely payments are not received, the introductory APR may end early. 1 Eligible purchases mean any signature or pin-based, online, phone or mail-order purchase made with the Farm Bureau Member Rewards MasterCard. Offer excludes Cash Advances, Balance Transfers, credits and returns. Points expire after four full years. 3X reward points on qualifying transactions, up to $1500 quarterly. Program may change or be cancelled at any time. 2 Instead of receiving a membership renewal notice, you will receive a letter notifying you that your dues have been paid. Based on purchases made in the calendar year that ends 60 days prior to membership renewal month. Balance transfers and cash advances are not included. Please see Terms and Conditions on farmbureau.bank for additional details about the Farm Bureau Member Rewards MasterCard. Banking services provided by Farm Bureau Bank, FSB. Farm Bureau, FB, and the FB National Logo are registered service marks owned by, and used by Farm Bureau Bank FSB under license from, the American Farm Bureau Federation. FBMRMC_6.2023

YOUR SOYBEANS ARE THE RIGHT FEEDSTUFF FOR

ANIMALS Alabama’s 2,500 family poultry farms are our state’s No. 1 agricultural industry. And they count on over 2.3 million tons of your soybean meal a year as a high-protein ingredient in their feed. That’s 98 million bushels of your soybeans every year. As your Alabama Soybean Checkoff, we’re working with the Alabama poultry industry to make sure this stays one good-looking figure. Learn more about the story of soy at unitedsoybean.org/hopper.