Member Benefits That Will Save You Money! AUTO Car seats and booster seats Eligible members can receive a $500 discount
Members save big on select car seats and booster seats
HOME & OUTDOORS
Save big on a home security system
Save up to $2,000 on certain Caterpillar machines
$5 off an oil change at Alabama locations
WIRELESS
Discounts off monthly wireless service
TRAVEL & RECREATION
Save 20% at participating Choice Hotel locations
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Discount tickets online to the Georgia Aquarium
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BUSINESS
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Ask about Farm Bureau Bank’s Loans & Credit Cards
For a complete list of member benefits, go to alfafarmers.org/benefits.
Member benefits are available to members only and are subject to change. Some restrictions apply.
VOLUME 42,
NUMBER 2
A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation
February 2017
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Debra Davis, Editor Mike Moody, Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan, Executive Director Jeff Helms, Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell, President, Stanton Rex Vaughn, Vice President/North, Huntsville Dean Wysner, Vice President/Central, Woodland George Jeffcoat, Vice President/Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper, Vice President/Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn, Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn, Hillsboro Donald Hodge, New Market Phillip Thompson, Scottsboro Rickey Cornutt, Boaz Joe Anders, Northport Dell Hill, Alpine Joe Lambrecht, Wetumpka Meador Jones, Gallion Garry Henry, Hope Hull Steve Stroud, Goshen Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Fred Helms, Dothan Nell Miller, Snead Jerry Allen Newby, Athens
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In This Issue 4
Miller Makes Her Mark
10 A Newby Outlook
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.
12 Legislative Preview 16 Hunting Traditions
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22 One Last Shot
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001.
28 Country Kitchen
MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES: , 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org
On The Cover
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com
New State Women’s Leadership Committee
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.
poultry and row crops on their Blount County
www.AlfaFarmers.org
Chairman Nell Miller and husband Jimmy raise farm.
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Photo by Debra Davis
John Smith mber: 071910 Membership Nu rs Federation Alabama Farme /17 Void After: 12/21
MEMBER IDENT
COUNTY PRES
A member of American Farm Bureau Federation February 2017
PRESIDENT
ALABAMA
E D E R AT I O FA R M E R S F
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Show Your Card and Save! Hundreds of new LOCAL member benefits are now available. Visit AlfaFarmers.org to see how your membership card saves you on services, restaurants and more! w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Miller Ready To Make Her Mark As Women’s Leadership Chairman
Nell and Jimmy Miller raise poultry and row crops on their Blount County farm. As the new State Women's Leadership Committee chairman, Nell said she wants to focus on educating children and consumers about the importance of agriculture.
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February 2017
By Debra Davis
“AITC is one of the best programs availetermined able to help educate and dedicated teachers and train describe Nell them to teach their Miller. As the new students about agriAlabama Farmers culture,” Miller said. Federation Women’s “I’ve attended AITC Leadership CommitSummer Institutes, and tee chairman, she’s it’s always rewarding to determined to make see how excited teacha difference in the ers are to have new organization she’s resources to share with dedicated herself their students.” Marji Guyler-Alaniz, founder and president of FarmHer Inc., left, talks to Houston to for more than 20 County Women’s Leadership Chair Gloria Jeffcoat and State Women’s Committee Chair When she’s not busy Nell Miller at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual meeting in Phoenix, years. volunteering at Snead Arizona. Guyler-Alaniz is the keynote speaker for the Alabama Farmers Federation “I guess I’ve United Methodist Women’s Leadership Conference March 3-5 in Birmingham. always been that Church where she is way,” Miller said of Women’s Committee her tenacity. Her personal relationciation of nature. Seeing the wonchairman, is on the trustee board ships serve as examples. She loves der and beauty of God’s creation is and teaches Sunday school, Miller the Lord, her family and the Federwhat my grandchildren love about enjoys reading and spending time ation. coming to the farm, too.” with family. She met her husband of 51 Appreciation is at the heart of Miller also is chairman of the years, Jimmy, while she was still Miller’s work with the Federation. Blount County Soil and Water Conin high school. They married her She became active on the Blount servation Committee and serves on senior year, and the couple began a County Women’s Leadership the Cawaco Resource, Conservalifelong love affair with each other Committee about 20 years ago and tion and Development Council. and farming. served as its chairman for nearly 17 Federation Women’s Leadership The Millers have a diversified years. She was elected to the State Division Director Kim Ramsey said farm in northern Blount County Women’s Leadership Committee in Miller will be a great leader for the where they raise poultry and row 2013, where she formerly served as group. crops near Snead. That’s also where secretary and vice chairman. “The Women’s Leadership Divithey raised their two daughters and “I like everything about the sion is in quite capable hands under where they love to spend time with Women’s Committee,” Miller said. Nell’s leadership,” Ramsey said. their four grandchildren. “The members; the meetings all “Her experience as a past county The Millers farm with their over the state; and working with Women’s Leadership Committee nephew and his wife, Lance and the Alabama Ag In The Classroom chairman, service on the state Stephanie Miller, who live nearby. (AITC) program are all wonderful.” committee, her love for agriculture “There’s no place better than a Miller said working with AITC and a servant’s heart are only a farm to raise a family,” Miller said. is close to her heart because teachfew qualities that will enhance the “Our girls grew up understanding ing young people to love and apprewomen’s programming efforts and hard work and have a greater appre- ciate farming is key to its survival. planning for this year.” n
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February 2017
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Madison County Young Farmers Named National Finalist By Jeff Helms
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adison County young farmers Stewart and Kasey McGill were selected as one of four finalists for the national Achievement Award during the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) annual meeting Jan. 9 in Phoenix, Arizona. The McGills, who were named Alabama’s Outstanding Young Farm Family in August, said they are humbled by the recognition. “What a huge honor it is for us to be here representing the state of Alabama, to be on this stage, and to be one of the national finalists,” Stewart said. “We want to thank everyone in Alabama for all the help. It’s a huge accomplishment for us as a family, but it’s also a huge honor for the state — for all those who helped us along the way.” Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell was among the first to congratulate the McGills. “We are very proud of Stewart and Kasey,” Parnell said. “They show what can be achieved through faith, hard work and service. The McGills and all of our Young Farmers competitors give us hope for the future of Alabama agriculture.” As a national finalist, the McGills received a Case IH Farmall tractor valued at $25,000, $500 in merchandise from Stihl and a $2,500 cash prize. Alabama was represented in the Young Farmers Discussion Meet by Lauren Cline of Lee County, while Ben and Heather Maples of Limestone County competed in the Excellence in Agriculture contest. About 5,000 people attended the convention, which included educational seminars, a trade show, agricultural tours and keynote addresses by AFBF President Zippy Duvall and football legends Archie and Peyton Manning. During the opening general w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, left, and Federation Young Farmers Division Director Jennifer Himburg, right, congratulate Alabama's Outstanding Young Farm Family Stewart and Kasey McGill as one of four finalists for the national Achievement Award at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual meeting.
session, Alabama received Awards of Excellence in all six Farm Bureau program areas and President’s Awards among large-membership states for Education and Outreach and Public Relations and Communications. Duvall said farmers’ work in these areas is vital to American agriculture. In his first year as president, he visited 33 states and is committed to meeting with members on their farms in all 50 states, so he can help tell their stories. “We must help consumers understand that we all want the same things,” Duvall said. “We have a great story to tell. We need to take back the concept of sustainability because nobody is working harder to be sustainable than America’s farmers and ranchers.” During the meeting, Duvall asked Farm Bureau members to send messages to Congress encouraging regulatory reform. In a matter of minutes, more than 1,500 took action. Citing examples of regulatory overreach on farms from Massachusetts to California, Duvall said the government’s actions would be 6
comical if not so harmful to farm families. “There’s nothing funny about the federal government coming onto our land and telling us what we can and can’t do on our own farms,” he said. “It amounts to federal control of what we do. It’s unwarranted, and it’s unlawful.” More than 100 Federation members attended the convention, including 19 voting delegates and their alternates, who considered policy changes during the AFBF business session. “This convention is a great opportunity for us to gather with farmers from across the country who share our values, challenges and opportunities,” Parnell said. “Our involvement in Farm Bureau gives Alabama a voice in shaping policies and programs that impact agriculture and forestry.” The Federation’s new Farming Feeds Alabama video was played at the start of the closing general session. The video also was featured on digital marquees outside meeting rooms throughout the convention. n February 2017
Why Soybeans?
The United States is the top soybean producing country in the world. Soy is one of the few plants that provides a complete protein, containing all eight amino acids essential for good health. Soybeans grown in Alabama are primarily used for animal feed, but can be used in a variety of products including adhesives, ink, cosmetics and foam padding. More than 800 soy-based products have been developed with farmer checko dollars since 1990.
Farmer checkoff dollars help develop new varieties that are insect and disease resistant and require less water. That helps the environment, increases yields and saves farmers money. Everybody wins. — Robert Earl Acker Cherokee County Soybean Farmer
A DIVISION OF THE ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION
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“From the time I was a child, I knew I wanted to be a farmer. Doing business with a company that understands farming is important to me. ” — Rickey Cornutt, Marshall County 2015 Alabama Farmer of the Year
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THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT
Seth more
Seth More was raised on the same farm where he now raises his family – Pickens County’s sprawling Dee River Ranch. The 31-year-old raises corn, soybeans and cattle. He has been county Young Farmers chairman 10 years. More and Jodie, his wife of seven years, have three children – Mason, Grant and Anna Katherine. They live in Aliceville.
1 2 3 4
What drew you to agriculture?
I was raised around it. Even as a little boy, I was always trying to help, even though I was probably in the way. And it’s so satisfying. You see the fruits of your labor.
How Does federation Membership Help you? I want to continue learning, and the Federation gives me opportunities to do that. Anytime I can learn something new from someone who’s successful, I try to. I don’t want to reinvent the wheel.
How do you explain agriculture’s benefits? If we’re not good at what we do, then we’re out of business. We treat the land and animals with the utmost care to be successful.
what’s your favorite season on the farm?
The start of winter. All the hard work is behind us, and we spend our time taking care of the cows. Everything slows down. It’s a different pace.
Apply Online for
Scholarships The Alfa Foundation will award 100 $1,000 scholarships for students attending Alabama colleges, universities and technical schools.
Applications available at AlfaInsurance.com February 1 through April 1. The Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation will award up to 67 $1,750 scholarships for students majoring in agriculture or forestry at Auburn University and Alabama A&M University.
Deadline April 1
Applications available at AlfaFarmers.org Now through April 1. Applicants for Alfa Foundation scholarships must be members of Alabama Farmers Federation. Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation scholarships are available to Federation members and their children.
February 2017
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Increasing Involvement, Upping Understanding Newby’s Vision For Young Farmers By Marlee Moore
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rom crawling under conference tables as a child to voting during annual meeting business sessions as a young farmer, Jerry Allen Newby Jr., has been rooted in the Alabama Farmers Federation since before he can remember. As 2017 Young Farmers State Committee chairman, the seventhgeneration Limestone County farmer takes on his most active Federation role yet as he seeks to cultivate future leaders, increase county participation and grow understanding of the Federation’s mission. “I’ve always been around the Federation and understood its purpose,” said the 30-year-old, who will serve a one-year, ex-officio term on the state board of directors. “But when you start earning your living on the farm and realize how significant that job is to your family, you really understand how important the organization is to agriculture.” Growing up, begging his mother, Dianne, to take him to the field after school was Newby’s daily ritual. Other childhood staples were playing in cotton wagons with his sisters and cousins, attending cow sales with his grandfather, James, and riding in the tractor with his dad, Jerry. Because his father served as Federation president from 1998-2012, Newby experienced firsthand how Federation involvement produces a stronger agricultural future for Alabama. New State Young Farmers Chairman Jerry Allen Newby, his wife Ashley and their children Madalyn and Newby. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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February 2017
Newly elected Young Farmers State Committee Chairman Jerry Allen Newby was born and raised on his family's Limestone County farm, where he and wife Ashley also raise their children, Madalyn and Newby.
“You need allies to protect against things like misinformation, bad policy and other concerns detrimental to farmers,” said Newby, who previously served as Limestone County Young Farmers secretary and chairman and District 1 state committee representative. Newby said growing local Young Farmers committees is his priority and encourages counties to share ideas throughout the year, not just at the Young Farmers Conference. “Some counties have awesome Young Farmers groups,” he said. “Whatever you’re doing, we want to know.” His end goal? Participation from all 67 counties at the Young Farmers Conference and Young Farmers business session at the Federation annual meeting. “Many of our counties are active but don’t attend our state conventions,” Newby said. “You don’t see the business side and magnitude of what we do until you attend the annual meeting.” Newby said meeting participation will improve state committee involvement. “I want people to be interested enough to serve,” Newby said. “If you look in the Federation boardroom, people that were active in Young Farmers typically hold February 2017
Federation positions later down the road.” Continuing to grow interest in Outstanding Young Farm Family, Excellence in Agriculture and Discussion Meet contests is another goal, as is seeking future agriculturalists by holding FFA chapter Discussion Meets. “Young Farmers could be the next step for them to be involved in agriculture,” he said. Despite his plans and past leadership roles, Newby said he couldn’t make it without Ashley, his wife of almost eight years. The Newbys dated throughout high school and tied the knot after Ashley graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. “Ashley is the one who keeps it all together,” Newby said. “She keeps me on task.” The Newbys, who live in Athens, have two children, Madalyn, 6, and Jerry Allen Newby III, 4, nicknamed Newby. Whether it’s sending meeting reminders, coordinating ag toy drives or organizing book donations from local beekeepers, Ashley works behind the scenes to ensure success for the Limestone County Young Farmers. “I try to think of new ideas and get people involved at the county 11
level,” said 29-year-old Ashley, who also volunteers at Madalyn’s school. “These are things farmers don’t always have time to do.” Newby partners with his uncle, Jimmy Newby, cousins John and James Newby, and his sister Elizabeth Crow and her husband Justin in Newby Farms. The family’s large diversified farm is in Limestone and Madison counties and Giles County, Tennessee. While the family splits the workload of growing row crops and raising Holstein steers, Newby is most passionate about farm strategy, like problem solving, planning and technology, along with irrigation, cattle and cotton. “Our predominant crop was always cotton,” said Newby. “Today, our rotation consists of more grain, but my favorite crop has always been cotton. I like planting cotton, watching it grow, and I love to pick good cotton.” In addition to farm and Federation duties, the Newbys teach Sunday school at Sardis Springs Baptist Church and are members of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association. “Your word is everything. That’s what we strive to remember,” Newby said. “We want to be good stewards and community members.” n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Alabama Legislature Expected to Hear Task Force Recommendations
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he Alabama Legislature convenes Feb. 7 for the 2017 Regular Session, but lawmakers have been meeting for months on legislation that could impact Alabama Farmers Federation members. “Debates over the budgets and gambling, as well as other issues, led to the formation of a variety of working groups charged with studying issues and making recommendations to the governor and Legislature,” said Federation Governmental and Agricultural Programs Director Brian Hardin. “We have been monitoring their work and developing additional background for our organization’s policy positions.” Of special interest will be findings of the Joint Legislative Task Force on Budget Reform. The group has focused on five areas: unearmarking; tax credits, deduc-
tions and exemptions; the budgeting process; agency reviews; and tax relief. One revenue bill likely to resurface this year is a fuel tax increase aimed at providing more money for county roads. Federation policy supports “increased and equitable funding for improving farm-to-market roads and bridges,” Hardin said. Gov. Robert Bentley also is seeking recommendations on lotteries and gambling from the Alabama Advisory Council on Gaming. A proposed statewide lottery was defeated in an August special session when lawmakers couldn’t agree on how to spend lottery proceeds. Legislation also could be proposed by the Alabama Board of Registrars Legislation Task Force, charged with examining the process for appointing and overseeing
registrars, or the Alabama Water Agencies Working Group, which is evaluating statewide water policy. Federation priorities include preserving Alabama’s property tax structure, including current use valuation for agriculture and forestry; opposing efforts to tax seed, feed and fertilizer; maintaining premium tax credits that encourage job creation and investment in Alabama; and securing funding for agriculture-related agencies and programs, including Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation registration fees and career and technical education. For updates throughout the legislative session, follow @alfafarmers on Twitter and subscribe to the Capitol Connection newsletter at AlfaFarmers.org/about/sign-upform. n
Pennsylvania Beef Tour June 19-23, 2017
Five-day bus tour leaves Philadelphia and includes visits to all types of beef cattle ranches in Pennsylvania. Registration opens March 20th. Visit AlfaFarmers.org for details. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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February 2017
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Young Farmers Conference To Convene In Capital City
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dea attendees to Montgomery during the hen hundreds of young farmers convene in the dli ne conference kickoff banquet, and a perCapital City for the Alabama Farmers FederFeb formance by the country and Southern rock ation Young Farmers Conference March 3-5, .3 band Trotline wraps up day one. they’re in for a weekend full of education, fellowship OYFF contestant and fun. interviews continue SaturThe Federation’s Jenday morning. During breaknifer Himburg said the fast, attendees will hear conference, which features Parnell Cattle and Timber about current legislative a new addition of tours, Wright’s Nursery & Greenhouse issues, followed by tours will encourage and educate of beef cattle, row crop and farmers on how to improve Autauga Farming Co. horticulture farms. their properties. "Our goal is for these “We’re touring some of tours to trigger ideas and the most impressive and motivate our members innovative farms in central Hornsby Farms so they can improve their and east Alabama,” said Himburg, the Federation’s Southeast Kiwi Farming Cooperative properties and businesses," Himburg said. Young Farmers Division E.V. Smith Research Center Commodity division director. “This conference winners and three OYFF is a great networking and finalists will be named at educational opportunity to the closing banquet. Finalists compete later this year inspire the next generation of farmers.” for more than $60,000 in prizes. The conference begins Friday evening at the The conference concludes Saturday evening with Montgomery Renaissance Hotel and Convention a live auction benefiting the Alabama Farmers AgriCenter with contestant interviews for Alabama’s culture Foundation. Last year, the auction raised more 2017 Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF). than $7,000. n Federation President Jimmy Parnell will welcome
Tour A
Tour B
House Agriculture Committee Chairman Headlines Washington Conference
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ope abounds as Alabama Farmers Federation members prepare for their bi-annual Washington Legislative Conference in the nation’s capital March 7-10. While Alabama farmers suffered through a difficult year with a drought and low commodity prices, there is great optimism the Trump Administration and the 115th Congress will promote policies favorable to the agricultural community and rural America, said Federation National Legislative Programs Director Mitt Walker “Our farmers plan to discuss a number of issues with legislators and agency officials while we’re in Washington,” Walker said. “Our farmers will be especially interested in hearing from U.S. Rep Mike Conaway, R-Texas, chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, who will address the group
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during the opening breakfast.” Regulatory reform will be
Registration deadline Feb. 9 another focus of the conference with the new administration, Walker said. There also are several 14
issues associated with the current and impending farm bills that will be important for many farmers in attendance, he added. Walker said because this is a transition year for the federal government's executive branch, several guest speakers and meetings are being negotiated for Federation members attending the conference. However, attendees can expect to meet with members of Alabama’s congressional delegation along with key agency officials. A visit to the British Embassy is planned for the Alabama group, and a new addition to the conference is an evening tour of the major monuments in the DC area following the annual Capitol Hill barbecue reception. Registration deadline for the conference is Feb. 9. To register or for more information, visit AlfaFarmers.org. n February 2017
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GAME ON Lamar County Quail Hunter Preserves Tradition By Marlee Moore
studied agriscience education at Mississippi State University (MSU) in 1962. Several years later when saving money to finish his last semester of school, McLellan got a shot at his dream. “I never thought I’d get a chance to farm, but I did,” he said. “For 37 years, I never finished that semester.” That is, until 2001, when he completed the three classes standing between him and graduation. That’s where his love affair with quail hunting recommenced. In the 1980s, Alabama’s natural quail populations disappeared, and game enthusiasts could no longer hunt the 3-pound birds. As a result, penraised birds released at preserves became the norm for quail hunting in the Southeast. While at MSU, McLellan considered starting a preserve for his buddies, but encouragement from friends in MSU’s wildlife department convinced him to open the preserve to the public. Quail Valley Hunting Preserve, located on 130 acres of former soybean fields in McLellan’s backyard, was a dream that became reality. “Most visitors are people who want their children and grandkids to know what quail hunting is like,” McLellan said. “I’ve tried to make the experience as natural as possible.” McLellan’s quail come from Oneonta. The morning of a hunt, he releases birds in the field, but not too early. If the birds fly too soon, predators like hawks
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hen Curtis “Sonny” McLellan was 9 years old, he, like any Southern boy, developed a hankering for a dog. Specifically, a bird dog. In a stroke of luck, McLellan traded 12 hens and a rooster for Jill, a black and white bird dog he hunted with for 13 years. His future as a quail-hunting enthusiast was cemented. “I’ve loved dogs and quail hunting ever since I could remember,” said McLellan, 72, owner of Quail Valley Hunting Preserve in Vernon in Lamar County. “I guess I’ve seen a million dogs point (freeze and aim their snout toward game), and I never tire of it.” Growing up, McLellan’s dream was to farm, but his folks insisted he and his siblings attend college. “That’s all we heard, ‘You’re going to get an education,’” remembered McLellan, who w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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February 2017
A jack-of-all-trades, he served on the Federation Board of Directors in the 1980s before being elected Lamar County probate judge. He also preached for over 40 years. Quail Valley hunters range from college students to men McLellan’s age, and they come from as far as Charlotte, North Carolina, or as close as Tuscaloosa County. “It’s nostalgic,” said Northport’s Skip Lambert, who trains dogs at Quail Valley. “People are reliving how they hunted as children.” Lambert and McLellan met 15 years ago, when similar affections for quail hunting, dogs and the outdoors made them fast friends. “Sonny’s a farmer,” Lambert said. “I’m a farmer at heart.” When McLellan takes customers to Quail Valley, they’re not just shooting quail, tasting homemade snacks provided by his wife Joan or checking out the Sears, Roebuck & Co. shotgun his father gave him 63 years ago. McLellan is helping them create and reconstruct prized memories. “I look back over my life, and of all the things I’ve ever done, I’ve really enjoyed this,” McLellan said. “It’s unbelievable the things you learn about people.” Quail Valley Hunting Preserve’s season runs from October to March. For more information, visit QuailValleyHunting.com . n
swoop in before hunters can raise their shotguns. “I wish there were wild birds like there used to be,” McLellan said. “A quail just doesn’t survive well with predators we have now.” Though today’s hunts don’t exactly mirror those of his childhood, McLellan is passing on a passion for quail hunting to his grandson, Austin Duran, who said the sport’s fast pace and relaxed atmosphere keeps him coming back for more. “I like being able to talk and interact with people,” said the 21-year-old. “It’s really fun to have your own dog and see the progress that dog makes in a day.” Duran trains his dog, Bella, at Quail Valley, taking after his grandfather, who has 10 bird dogs he’s raised including setters and German shorthaired pointers. “There are two things you can’t teach a dog – to smell and hunt birds,” McLellan said. “Dogs smell that bird and learn over time they can’t catch it. They freeze when they smell it, and we call that pointing.” Before opening Quail Valley, McLellan grew row crops and raised cattle around Vernon and Sulligent. An active member of the Alabama Farmers Federation, McLellan flew to the District of Columbia in 1977 for the organization’s first Washington Legislative Conference, a trip he made for 27 consecutive years.
Quail Valley Hunting Preserve owner Sonny McLellan, right, is passing on quail-hunting traditions of his childhood to his grandson, Austin Duran. February 2017
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Women’s Leadership Conference Set For April 5-6 In Birmingham
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After the opening banquet and a welcome by Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Marji Guyler-Alaniz, founder and president of FarmHer Inc., will speak. An Iowa native, Guyler-Alaniz created FarmHer in 2013 to spotlight women in agriculture. Thursday’s agenda kicks off with a legislative update from the Federation’s governmental affairs staff. Morning sessions focus on Ag in the Classroom with Alabama Peanut Producers Association’s Teresa Mays; GMO education with Extension Specialist Dr. Rudy Pacumbaba; and Southern food with cookbook author and food blogger Stacey Little. That day, the conference coincides with the Alabama Farm-City Awards Luncheon to recognize county Farm-City committees for 2016 achievements. Winners in statewide poster, essay and multimedia contests will be announced, as will the 2017 Farm of Distinction recipient. Following the evening banquet, country music artist and Alabamian Ashton Shepherd will take the stage to close out the conference. Register at alfafarmers.org, or contact your county Federation for more details. n
hen 200 agriculture-loving ladies descend on Birmingham for the 2017 Women’s Leadership Conference April 5-6, giving, growing and GMO education are headed their way. Sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Federation, the annual event is at the Hyatt Regency - The Wynfrey Hotel. Registration opens Feb. 16 and closes March 3. Federation Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Ramsey said the conference is a fun-focused networking and educational opportunity for ladies statewide. “Whether it’s collecting pop tabs for charity, learning about GMOs or hearing from a strong, agricultural businesswoman, our members will have plenty of knowledge to soak up,” Ramsey said. “We’d love to see participation from all 67 counties and have that involvement spread to our state and national levels.” The conference begins Wednesday afternoon with registration and pop tab collections, which benefit Alabama’s Ronald McDonald Houses. At check-in, members are in for a treat with complimentary massage therapy, in addition to unique clothing, jewelry and accessories available from county vendors.
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February 2017
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Walker County Farmers Give Back To Volunteer Fire Departments
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he Walker County Grace said. “These fire Farmers Federation departments helped our (WCFF) recently helped members preserve their extinguish a fire of sorts homes and property, a good when it donated $500 to return-on-investment for each of the county’s 26 their annual membership volunteer fire departments fee.” (VFDs) — $13,000 in all. While most of the fires “A gift like this is engulfed pasture and timcritical to volunteer fire berland, buildings were endangered, too. Damaged departments because we are structures were mainly always in need of funding,” outbuildings, and thanks said Greg Chamness, Boldo to hard-working volunteer VFD fire chief. “We have no firefighters, only one Walker permanent source of fundCounty home burned. ing.” Walker County Farmers Federation board members recently donated Chamness said fuel cost Drought and contin$500 to the county’s 26 volunteer fire departments. increases varied by departued low humidity sparked wildfires statewide last fall, straining VFD budgets with ment, but estimated VFDs spent an extra $500 for fuel because of drought-triggered wildfires. increased fuel costs and equipment repairs. October and November recorded 573 wildfires Grace said the WCFF was thankful for the VFDs’ dedscorching 3,288 acres in Walker County. For that same ication and plans to contribute more in the future. period in 2015, 124 wildfires singed 143 acres. “Our board has always been cognizant of our comWCFF President Dorman Grace said supporting the munity and its needs,” he said. “We try to invest our VFDs was an easy decision. funds back into the community. We just wish we could “Where there was a fire, there was a structure,” have given more.” n
2017 Alabama Horse Fair Set For March 4-5 In Montgomery
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the technical trainer,” said Jaeger, the Federation’s Equine Division director. “This family friendly event has a parade of breeds and a ‘Show Me’ barn where children and adults alike can get up close and personal with horses.” The fair includes riding demonstrations and entertainment, educational workshops for horse owners, drill team and trail obstacle competitions, and the state’s largest horse-related trade show. Fair proceeds benefit AHC’s scholarship fund for students pursuing equine careers. Undergraduate, graduate and veterinary school students are eligible to apply. Gates open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Event admission is $15 Saturday and $10 Sunday, with children 6 and under admitted free. For more information, including a schedule of events, go to alabamahorsecouncil.org. n
ll things equine are set to take center stage during the Alabama Horse Fair in Montgomery at Garrett Coliseum March 4-5. The annual event is presented by the Alabama Horse Council (AHC) and supported by the Alabama Farmers Federation. Popular trainer and YouTube sensation Stacy Westfall returns to the Capital City as this year’s main attraction and brings her husband Jesse to introduce the sport of reining to the fair. Joining the Westfalls in the coliseum arena are horsemanship trainer Carson James, gaited horse specialist Michael Gascon and mule trainer Steve Edwards. Cowgirl and Christian music artist Crystal Lyons will perform throughout the weekend and lead Sunday morning’s cowboy church. Crowd favorites at Crawford Arena include Saturday’s drill team competition and Sunday’s trail obstacle challenge. The Alabama Farmers Federation’s Nate Jaeger said the fair is Alabama’s largest equine educational and instructional event, bringing in thousands of people from across Alabama and surrounding states. “There really is something for every type of rider and horse enthusiast, from the casual trail rider to w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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February 2017
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Going Out With A Bang Holy Smoke Offers Outdoorsmen One Last Shot
By Marlee Moore
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t’s opening day of dove season. A man heads to the field, opens a box of custom shells, loads his shotgun, takes aim and says, “This one’s for you, Dad.” Those shells – filled with his father’s cremated remains – give “ashes to ashes” new meaning. Clem Parnell and Thad Holmes are former military men and game wardens who own Holy Smoke LLC. They reg-
ularly hear similar testimonies about their company, which reloads ammunition with loved ones’ cremated remains, or cremains, as tribute to outdoorsmen, military, police and firearm fanatics. The idea was sparked when Parnell’s brother died five years ago, and Holmes asked how the surviving Parnell wished to be buried. “I said I wanted to be cremated and my ashes placed inside shotgun shells,” remembered Parnell, 64. “The last thing a
big gobbler would see is me coming at him at 1,200 feet per second.” The men laughed off the idea, but later pursued the concept. Three years ago, they found men to help reverently reload shells, Parnell’s wife sketched a logo – ashes swirling toward heaven through angel wings, and Holy Smoke was in business. “Our goal is to help people celebrate their loved one’s life,” said Holmes, 61. “This is a lot more memorable than a funeral.” Parnell said Holy Smoke solves the dilemma of dividing ashes
Holy Smoke owners Thad Holmes, left, and Clem Parnell fire off a round of smoky shells in Stockton. Holmes and Parnell make and sell shells that smoke red, white and blue for 21-gun salutes, in addition to reloading shells with cremains.
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among family. “We in no way replace a funeral home or crematorium,” Parnell said. “The family has been through the mourning sequence, has a bunch of ashes and doesn’t know what to do with them. Then they call us, especially if the guy was a policeman, military person or just liked to shoot and hunt.” Cremation’s popularity is rising, and it’s almost as common as traditional burials. According to the Cremation Association of North America, 48.6 percent of 2015 burials involved cremations. Parnell and Holmes stress the importance of their reloaders honoring customers and their families. “We want them to be people with good hearts, people who would treat cremated remains with emotion and reverence,” Parnell said. It takes around two weeks to complete and deliver Holy Smoke’s usual order of 250 shotgun shells, 150 rifle cartridges or 120 pistol cartridges. Parnell and Holmes take pride in their military roots. Holy Smoke offers a 10 percent discount for military and police officers and reloads shells smoking red, white and blue when fired – perfect for 21-gun salutes. They also make cartridge pendant necklaces. “One lady called us about reloading a house cat,” Parnell said. “Unfortunately, you cremate a 3 or 4 pound cat, and you don’t have ashes left.” Then there’s one story smoking the competition. “A gentleman from another state shot his own finger off,” ParFebruary 2017
Tony Landenwich reloads bullets with cremains for Holy Smoke in his Baldwin County shop.
nell said. “He contacted me and wanted to know if he had his finger cremated would we put it in a bullet. Just one bullet. I told him we would.” Ultimately, the almost-customer preserved his finger as a reminder to safeguard his remaining digits. “He assured me if something happened to him, his remains would be shipped to us,” Parnell said. Holy Smoke ships shells to almost every state. The company was featured on Simply Southern sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Federation and NPR, and it was 23
mentioned on Stephen Colbert’s The Late Show. Holy Smoke also tops internet lists detailing unusual ways to repurpose cremains. “Your wife can get your remains put into bullets,” Holmes said. “Now, if someone breaks into your home, you’re gone, but still able to defend your home.” For Holy Smoke customer Wes Moore, the company helped him grieve a buddy who died of a heart attack on their annual duck-hunting trip. “Butch always said when he died, he wanted his ashes spread over the duck pond,” said Moore, a Fairhope resident. So Moore called Holy Smoke, which loaded the cremains into eight boxes of steel shot and two of turkey shells. The turkey season after Butch’s death, his adopted son felled two turkeys with his father – the first Butch ever shot. Moore then used the steel shot on the next year’s duck hunt. “This helps with your grief,” Moore said. “It’s not like carrying a picture. It extends that person into an activity you shared.” Parnell and Holmes say they’re honored to help others remember better days with a loved one. “It makes us so happy to get that return letter from a family member thanking us for allowing them to spend a day with their deceased family member,” Parnell said. “They take him out and give him one last ride.” For more information, visit MyHolySmoke.com. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Tips For Protecting Backyard Poultry By Maggie Lawrence
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mall flock owners can follow some easy guidelines to help protect their birds’ health. “People should buy chicks from outlets like feed and seed stores or directly from a mail-order company,” said Dr. Joe Hess, an Alabama Extension poultry scientist. “These outlets sell chicks from suppliers that are certified disease-free, helping ensure people begin their flocks with healthy chicks. Always buy birds from a reputable source.” Backyard biosecurity helps safeguard flocks, Hess said. Good hygiene and common-sense practices help prevent disease, he added. Keep Your Distance Other people and birds—including recently purchased chickens and wild birds—can carry diseases. Poultry owners, backyard bird owners or anyone owning birds should limit contact with each other and their property. Feeders should be placed in covered locations inaccessible to wild birds to reduce potential for diseases carried in wild bird droppings. Keep It Clean “People can pick up germs on shoes and clothing,” Hess said. “Reduce the potential of exposing birds to disease by keeping a set of clothes and shoes to wear only around your birds.” Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before entering a coop or handling birds. Wash again after exiting the coop. Keep cages clean. Change food and water daily, and clean and disinfect equipment that comes in contact with birds or droppings. Don’t Bring Disease Home Tires, poultry cages and equipment can harbor germs. If visiting
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Marshall County’s Mallory Chandler is just one of many young participants in the Alabama 4-H Chick Chain.
where birds are present, disinfect items before returning home. “If you take birds to a fair or exhibition, keep those birds separated from your flock for at least two weeks after the event,” Hess said. “New birds should be kept separate from your flock for a month.” Know Warning Signs Poultry diseases can be swift moving and deadly, and early detection is important, Hess said. “Check how birds are eating, their energy levels and their daily appearance,” he said. Look for: • Sudden drop in egg production or misshapen eggs • Swelling of head, eyelids, combs and hocks
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• Purplish discoloration of combs and wattles • Diarrhea • Difficulty breathing and nasal discharge • Tremors, drooping wings or other movement problems Report Sick Birds Hess reminds backyard flock owners that it’s critical to report sick poultry. “State officials need to know if small flocks are having disease outbreaks to prevent spread to other small flocks or to commercial operations,” he said. Report sick poultry or suspicious deaths to the State Department of Agriculture & Industries at (334) 240-6584. n
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reaming of freshly picked citrus but don’t know where to start? Look no further than the backyard. Citrus will grow in patio containers, and each fall, you’ll be rewarded with just enough fruit to brag about — and have wax-free peels for fresh zest. Now is the perfect time to pick up a citrus tree at a local garden center. Citrus trees like calamondin, kumquat, Satsuma, lime and Meyer lemon are small enough to thrive in patio pots. Containers that hold 20-40 gallons of potting mix (whiskey-barrel size) fit the bill, but some gardeners have larger containers on casters for rolling into the garage each winter. The limit is as large as a person can handle, but 20 gallons is minimum. Lightweight fiberglass or plastic containers are best and should be filled with premium potting mix that drains well. If growing only one citrus, try Meyer lemon. The fruit is expensive and hard to find in stores, and trees bear fruit almost yearround. Most citrus trees bloom in early spring and ripen their fruit the following fall and winter, but Meyer lemons flower and fruit continuously. Critical times for Alabama citrus are late fall, when plants need protection from freezing temperatures, and spring, when trees should be moved outdoors for pollination. Plants stay outside during warm months and should be placed next to south-facing windows when indoors. Of course, greenhouses are ideal for overwintering. We keep trees in a temporary pop-up greenhouse that dismantles easily for storage. The only heat source is a light bulb if the temperature drops below 20 outside. Full sun exposure is best, but citrus tolerates a little shade during part of the day. A word of caution — don’t move trees wintered inside directly into full sun in spring, as leaves may scorch. Place them under pine trees or in spots where they receive gentle, early- to midmorning-rays for a few weeks. If trees bloom before they’re placed outside in spring, you’ll need to help pollinate the plants so they set fruit. Use an artist’s brush to transfer yellow pollen from the anthers to the sticky stigma in each flower’s center. Go from one flower to another just like bees do, gathering pollen along the way. Like other potted plants, citrus needs regular watering, fertilizer and pest patrol. Water only when the first inch of soil in the pot feels dry, and be careful not to overwater. Feed trees in spring, summer and fall with a citrus fertilizer containing required nutrients and
By Lois Chaplin micronutrients, like iron, magnesium, copper, molybdenum, manganese and zinc. If leaves turn yellow despite fertilizer, extra magnesium is sometimes necessary. Dissolve a tablespoon of Epsom salt in 2 gallons of water, and water the plant or apply as a foliar spray during growing season. A leaf disease called greasy spot may affect citrus. Prevent greasy spot with copper spray, which is organic-approved. Prepare to spray the citrus with insecticidal soap or fine horticultural oil if whiteflies, aphids or mites become problematic. Ensure the label states the oil is OK to use in all seasons. Look for citrus in garden centers in February and enjoy picking fruit from your own tree later. Contact a local Extension agent or search “growing citrus in Alabama” online for recommendations about varieties, cold-hardiness and care. n Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.
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February 2017
Legendary Leaders To Be Inducted Into Alabama Ag Hall Of Honor
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discovered, propagated, patented and introduced. Hajek was an AU College of Agriculture faculty member for almost three decades. His research resulted in greater accuracy in defining the characteristics of soils, which guided improved farm management practices nationwide. Hajek served as state cooperator in the National Cooperative Soil Survey and led Auburn’s soil judging team to four national championships. Loren Aldridge, a 1926 Alabama Polytechnic Institute (API) graduate in agricultural education, began his career as a vegetable farmer. His farm evolved into a greenhouse and nursery business. Aldridge founded the Bessemer Floral Company and Aldridge Garden Center and Nursery in Birmingham and served as Alabama Florist Association president. Helms, an API agricultural engineering graduate, established and led API’s teaching farm for 13 years. He then began a 40-year career in farm equipment sales with Helms and Sons Tractor Co. in Montgomery, during which time the Montgomery County Farmers Service and Welfare Association presented Helms its Community and Economic Development Award. He also served as Agribusiness Advisory Committee president. For more information, contact Luke Knight at (334) 844-2393 or luke.knight@auburn.edu. n
he Auburn University (AU) Agricultural Alumni Association will honor five men who impacted Alabama agriculture at the 2017 Alabama Agriculture Hall of Honor banquet Feb. 9 at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel and Conference Center. The five include three Hall of Honor inductees and two recipients of the Agricultural Pioneer Award, presented posthumously. 2017 Hall of Honor inductees are L.O. Bishop of Cherokee, ag production honoree; Edgar “Eddie” Aldridge of Hoover, agribusiness honoree; and education/government inductee Benjamin Hajek of Auburn. Families of the late Loren Aldridge of Hoover and James Helms of Montgomery will receive Pioneer Awards. Bishop began farming at the age of 15 and, in the 65 years since, has become known as one of Alabama’s leading pork producers. He’s also known for his mouth-watering Bishop’s Barbecue. For his leadership in Alabama agriculture, Bishop received the Alabama Farmers Federation Service to Agriculture Award and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System Agricultural Leadership Award. The Federation nominated Bishop for the Hall of Honor. Eddie Aldridge developed many new cultivars of ornamental plants and shrubs throughout his career, including the Snowflake hydrangea, an oakleaf hydrangea mutation he and his father, the late Loren Aldridge,
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By Jill Clair Gentry
CLASSIC BEEF CHILI Leah McElmoyl Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 20 minutes (20 minutes active) Serves 4
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veryone seems to have a favorite chili recipe. Even for those who don’t possess culinary prowess, chili is a dish that withstands tinkering well — add a dash of this and a sprinkle of that; serve it with a host of different toppings; switch up the beans or the meat — it somehow always turns out beautifully. At least that’s what Leah McElmoyl of DeKalb County has experienced. “I’m really not much of a cook,” she said. “My husband, Clint, is the chef in our house. He knew how to cook when we started dating. He has a big grill and loves to cook for large groups of people. He’s done wedding receptions and parties and all kinds of things.” So when Leah, who is an attorney in Chattanooga, Tennessee, was approached at work about representing her firm in a chili cook-off, she asked Clint to help her come up with a recipe — the w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
winning recipe. “That’s how the spicy red chicken chili was born,” she said. “We beat several chefs with that recipe.” Although her chili recipes are delicious, they’re simple to prepare and don’t take long to make. That’s essential for the McElmoyls’ busy lifestyle. Clint is associate director of Auburn University’s Sand Mountain Research and Extension Center, manages a herd of registered Hereford cattle and serves on the DeKalb County Farmers Federation Board of Directors. Leah, in addition to being an attorney who specializes in estate planning, is involved with Alfa’s Young Farmers and is a current member of the A.L.F.A Leaders Class. “We both stay pretty busy, and we don’t always get home at the same time every night,” Leah said. “So if we’re cooking during the week, it’s got to be simple and fast. My chili recipes definitely fit those 28
3 tablespoons butter, divided 1 large onion, diced 1 pound ground beef 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce 16-ounce can chili beans 1 packet McCormick chili seasoning (original) 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
Heat 1 tablespoon butter in skillet and cook half of the diced onion until translucent. Crumble in ground beef. Season with salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce, and cook until evenly browned. In a large stock pot, heat 2 tablespoons butter and cook remaining diced onion over medium-high heat until translucent. Add ground beef, onions, tomato sauce and chili beans to stock pot. Season with remaining six ingredients. Stir together well. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you have. The longer it simmers, the better it will taste. Serve warm with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream or whatever chili toppings you prefer.
February 2017
SPICY RED CHICKEN CHILI Courtesy of Leah McElmoyl Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 20 minutes (20 minutes active) Serves 6-8 3 tablespoons butter 1 medium onion, diced 1 whole rotisserie chicken (deboned and shredded) 15-ounce can tomato sauce 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes 10-ounce can Rotel tomatoes 15.5-ounce can black beans 15.5-ounce can white beans 16-ounce can chili beans 15-ounce jar of Pace salsa, mild 2 packs McCormick chili seasoning (original) 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon sugar
COWBOY CANDY Courtesy of Mary Glenn Smith Start-to-finish: 1 hour Makes 2-3 pint jars 2 pounds fresh jalapeño peppers, sliced 2 cups vinegar 4 cups sugar 2 tablespoons mustard seed 2 tablespoons minced garlic 1/2 teaspoon celery seed 1/2 teaspoon turmeric 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 2-3 pint jars (sterilized) with lids and rings
BUTTERMILK CORNBREAD Courtesy of Clint McElmoyl 3 tablespoons Crisco 2 tablespoons butter 1 large egg 1 1/2 cups buttermilk 2 cups cornmeal 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
Heat oven to 350 F. Add Crisco and butter to a cast iron skillet and place in oven. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk the egg.
In stock pot, heat butter and diced onion over medium-high heat. Stir and cover. Sweat onions for about 5 minutes. Remove the lid, stir and put the lid back for another 5 minutes. Continue until onions are soft and translucent, but not brown. Add shredded chicken to stock pot and stir. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Rotel, beans and salsa. Season with remaining six ingredients. Stir to blend. Reduce to medium-low and simmer for 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you have. The longer it simmers, the better it will taste. Serve warm with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream or whatever chili toppings you prefer.
Remove about half the seeds from the jalapeños to reduce heat. Leave more seeds if you like spice. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, mustard seed, garlic, celery seed, turmeric and cayenne. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Add sliced jalapeños; stir and simmer for 5 minutes. Transfer jalapeños to jars with slotted spoon, leaving a small amount of room at the top of each jar. Turn the heat up on
the liquid, bring to a hard boil and boil for about 7-8 minutes until the mixture gets syrupy. Ladle the syrup into the jars of peppers and cover completely. Wipe the rim of the jars with a damp paper towel and place lids and rings on tightly. Process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes until jars seal. The peppers are better if allowed to cure for two weeks before eating, but if you like, you can enjoy them right away.
Add buttermilk and cornmeal. Stir well until blended. Add mayonnaise and stir well until blended. If mixture feels too thick, add water and stir until consistency is such that it will easily pour into the skillet. When Crisco and butter are melted and very hot (slightly sizzling, but not too brown), spoon a small amount of batter into skillet. Then pour
in remaining batter. Spooning a small amount first will help prevent cornbread from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. Place skillet back into oven and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until center is firm. Remove from oven, cover skillet with platter and flip cornbread onto the platter. Slice and serve with your favorite chili. It’s also great with pinto beans and pepper jelly. n
Find these recipes in the “Local Flavor” section of AlfaFarmers.org and save them to a virtual recipe box called “My Recipe Box.” February 2017
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