Neighbors Magazine, May 2018 by Alabama Farmers Federation

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VOLUME 43,

NUMBER 5

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

May 2018

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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 Donald Sewell, Southside Rickey Cornutt, Boaz Joe Anders, Northport Phillip Hunter, Chelsea Joe Lambrecht, Wetumpka Meador Jones, Gallion Bill Cook, Montgomery Steve Stroud, Goshen Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Chris Carroll, Ariton Debbie Roberts, Fayette Ben Maples, Elkmont

In This Issue

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.

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State Row Crop Predictions

28 Legislative Session Wrapup 36 Sweet Strawberry Recipes

On The Cover

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation

19 Junior Beef Expo Results

MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES: , 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org

www.AlfaFarmers.org

Alabama Farm Of Distinction

10 Alabama Agricultural Road Trip

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

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.

Congratulations to Limestone County’s Ashlyn Ruf with her Junior Beef Expo Grand Champion Steer and Coffee County’s Dow Boyd with his Junior Beef Expo Grand Champion Heifer. Photo by Holly Alford

Trying to grow your business? Advertise in neighbors magazine Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com 3

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Shelby County Row Crop Operation Named Alabama Farm Of Distinction By Marlee Moore

edication and innovation yielded great rewards for John and Kate DeLoach when their Shelby County farm was named Alabama’s 2018 Farm of Distinction at the Alabama Farm-City Awards Luncheon in Birmingham April 5. The couple received over $20,000 in cash and prizes and will represent Alabama in the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year contest at the Sunbelt Ag Expo Oct. 16-18 in Moultrie, Georgia. Their 1,325-acre DeLoach Farms has been in the family since 1820 and includes 375 acres of cotton, 250 acres of soybeans, 200 acres of wheat and 150 acres of hay. The farm boasts some of the highest yields in the area and plants test plots with seed companies and university researchers. But transforming the farm wasn’t easy, John said. “I was 13 when my grandfather passed away,” he said. “Grandma talked about selling the farm, but I told her I’d come every day after school to help. At 16, when I graduated high school, I pretty much took over running the farm.” Twenty-six years later, their land management plan includes 20 acres of improved wetlands where John regulates water levels to provide food and habitat for waterfowl. Future plans include adding honeybees, a vineyard and agritourism with the help of son Jess. “We feel it is an honor to have the opportunity to take care of this land for a lifetime,” John said. “And what a responsibility it is, to pass w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Back row from left are Harold Kilpatrick, First South Farm Credit; Jim Allen, Alabama Farmers Cooperative; Kenneth Williams, AgPro; Tom Tribble, John Deere; Jess DeLoach; Carl Hunt and Dorman Grace, TriGreen Equipment; and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. Seated are Kate and John DeLoach.

that on to future generations.” John is a member of the Agricultural Leaders For Alabama class and is active in the Alabama Farmers Federation, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association and Alabama Farmers Cooperative. He and Kate have been recognized at state and national levels for community service. Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms said the DeLoach family showcases what it means to be a farmer in the 21st century. “John and Kate are dedicated to using innovative techniques to improve the land they love and have been entrusted with,” Helms 4

said. “They represent the very best of Alabama agriculture, and we’re proud for them to represent the state over the next year.” As the Farm of Distinction, the DeLoaches receive a John Deere Gator courtesy of AgPro, TriGreen and SunSouth dealers; a 40-by-60’ pole barn courtesy of Register Barns; a $1,000 gift certificate from Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC); an engraved farm sign from Alfa Insurance; and $2,500 as the state’s Southeastern Farmer of the Year contest representative. Other Farm of Distinction finalists were Thomas and Farrah Adams of Henry County, Greg and Diane Hamner of Lauderdale County, Trey and Pam Montgomery of Greene County, Sid and Susan Nelson of Sumter County, and Tyler and Madison Sanders of Houston County. Each received a $250 gift certificate from AFC and an engraved plaque. For more photos from the Farm-City Awards Luncheon, visit the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Flickr and Facebook pages. n M ay 2 0 1 8

Students Showcase How Agriculture Is Food For Life

rt and agriculture combined to close the gap between farm and table as creative young people were recognized at the Alabama Farm-City Awards Luncheon April 5 in Birmingham. Students from Autauga, Barbour, Coffee, Houston and Marshall counties were presented medals and cash awards for earning top honors in the state Farm-City poster, essay and multimedia contests. “The creativity and talent of these young people is inspiring,” said Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms. “Our judges could tell these students researched the topic and took time to produce compelling and informative artwork, videos and essays. Their parents and teachers should be proud, and we all should be encouraged about the future of our state and industry.” Autauga County seventh-grader Audrey Teaster won first place in the seventh- through ninth-grade division of the essay contest while Barbour County senior Lauren Garlits took top honors among 10th- through 12th-graders. Each received $300, as did their schools, Autauga Academy and Garlits Homeschool. Second-place essay winners were Fayette County High School ninth-grader Alisha West and Autauga Academy 10th-grader Emma Wendland. They and their schools each received $200. All student prizes were provided by the Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC), which serves farmers, gardeners and homeowners through about 80 Quality Co-op stores. A highlight of the luncheon was viewing the first-place multimedia video entry of Marshall County senior Kaleigh Backstrom. About 400 Alabama Farmers Federation Women’s Division members and Farm-City volunteers perched on the edge of their seats as Backstrom illustrated this year’s theme of “Agriculture: Food for Life.” M ay 2 0 1 8

Back row from left are AFC’s Jim Allen; Kaleigh Backstrom of Marshall County, multimedia contest winner; Lauren Garlits of Barbour County, 10th- through 12th-grade essay contest winner; Audrey Teaster of Autauga County, seventh- through ninth-grade essay contest winner; and Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms. Front row from left are Zayden Merry of Houston County, kindergarten through third-grade poster contest winner and Bowen Lee Jones of Coffee County, fourth- through sixth-grade poster contest winner.

Backstrom and her school, The Way Home Christian School, each received $300 from AFC. Second place went to Ty Rickard of Rehobeth High School in Houston County. He and the school received $200. The most popular youth FarmCity competition was the poster contest. Third-grader Zayden Merry of Montana Magnet School in Houston County won first place in the kindergarten to third-grade division, and fifth-grader Bowen Lee Jones of Zion Chapel School in Coffee County placed first among fourth- through sixth-graders. Each received $200 from AFC, as did their schools. Second place winners and schools received $100. They were Lineville Elementary School second-grader Hudson Foster of Clay County and sixth-grader Hannah Lee, who attends Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet School in Montgomery County. The 2019 Alabama Farm-City Calendar will feature the artwork of 10 honorable mentions from 5

the poster contest. Each student was awarded $50 by AFC. They were; Yaley McClendon of Pike Liberal Arts School in Pike County, Sophie Novalee Knight of Haleyville Elementary in Winston County, Lyric Antone of West Point Elementary in Cullman County, Braden DeLoach of Fayetteville School in Talladega County, Emma Shelton of Pickens Academy in Pickens County, Jordan Renee’ Dukes of South Lamar School in Lamar County, Anna Grace Black of Hatton Elementary in Lawrence County, Lily Gracelyn Moss of Horseshoe Bend School in Tallapoosa County, William Thornton of Heard Magnet School in Houston County and Alana Smith of Ariton Elementary in Dale County. Photos of the Awards Luncheon and winning posters are available on the Federation’s Flickr page at flickr.com/AlabamaFarmers and Facebook at facebook.com/ alabamafarmers. Backstrom’s video can be viewed on the Federation’s YouTube channel. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Cullman, Pike Counties Claim Top Farm-City Awards

ullman and Pike counties claimed the top prizes at the Alabama Farm-City Awards Luncheon April 5 in Birmingham. The overall award for Best FarmCity Committee went to Cullman County for the sixth consecutive year. County program highlights included a farm-to-fork dinner with 400 attendees and a Farm-City musical at Holly Pond Elementary School featuring 60 talented students. Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms said volunteers statewide invested thousands of hours to foster understanding between farmers and townspeople. “Generations ago, America was a largely agrarian culture, and almost everyone was involved with the production of food and fiber,” Helms said. “Today, less than 1 percent of Americans farm. FarmCity programs give us an opportunity to reconnect people with their food and the families who grow it.” Farm-City Week was first observed in 1955 and is celebrated the week before Thanksgiving. However, many county Farm-City committees conduct educational activities year-round. Cullman County also was judged Best Farm-City Committee in Division I (larger population

Other Division I Awards • Autauga County, Scrapbook Award • Coffee County, Best Media Coverage / Proclamation • Colbert County, Best Civic Club Activities • Houston County, Best National Ag Day Promotion • Lauderdale County, Best Farm-City Tour • Russell County, Best Special Activities Other Division II Awards • Cherokee County, Innovative Idea Award • Franklin County, Best Farm-City Dinner • Lawrence County, Best Civic Club Activities w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

The Cullman County Farm-City Committee was named best in the state for the sixth straight year. The committee received the Overall Best Farm-City Committee Award and received Division I awards for Best Farm-City Committee, Innovative Idea and Best Farm-City Dinner. Division I includes counties with a larger population. From left are Cullman County Farm-City Committee Chairman Lynda Hankey and Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms.

counties) and earned division awards for Best Farm-City Dinner and Innovative Idea. Lee County was named runner-up for Division I Best FarmCity Committee and earned the Target Award for emphasizing this year’s theme of “Agriculture: Food for Life.” Finishing a close second for the overall award was the Pike County Farm-City Committee, which was judged in Division II (smaller population counties). This year, Pike County had an impact statewide by proposing a partnership between Farm-City committees and local Rotary Clubs to plant a tree for each Rotarian. Informational packets about trees were distributed statewide, and Gov. Kay Ivey joined Farm-City and Rotary officials for a tree planting on the Alabama Capitol grounds. Pike County also won division awards for Best Media Coverage and Proclamation, Best Farm-City Tour and Best Special Activities. The Division II runner-up was Chambers County, which also earned the division Target and Scrapbook awards. 6

In addition to county awards, Pike County Farm-City Chairman Randy Hale was honored as Alabama’s Farm-City Volunteer of the Year. A founding member of the county committee, Hale has served 40 years inspiring others to share the Farm-City vision. Helms said Hale’s tireless work and enthusiasm for Farm-City helped grow the committee from 10 dedicated people to more than 40 leaders representing all sectors of the community. Also receiving individual recognition was Dr. Richard Guthrie, former dean of Auburn University’s College of Agriculture. He received the Farm-City Service Award for going above and beyond his professional duties in fulfilling the Farm-City mission. Helms described Guthrie as “a leader not afraid to get his hands dirty.” A member of the Lee County Farm-City Committee since 2010, Guthrie has planned and worked at Farm-City events including farm tours and educational booths at Ag Roundup and Ag Discovery Day. n M ay 2 0 1 8

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Alabama Farmers Expected To Plant More Wheat, Cotton And Corn By Debra Davis

labama farmers are expected to plant more winter wheat, cotton and corn this year while peanut acreage is predicted to drop, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) report issued March 29. Soybeans will remain steady with 350,000 acres predicted to be planted — about the same as last year. USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service issued the prospective planting report based on survey responses farmers submitted the first two weeks of March. The Alabama Farmers Federation’s Carla Hornady said a variety of factors may ultimately change what farmers will plant. “If poor growing conditions in South America create a smaller crop there, U.S. farmers could respond by planting more soybean acres,” said Hornady, the Federation’s Soybean, Cotton and Wheat & Feed Grain divisions director. “Likewise, weather conditions could change local planting decisions. If we suddenly have a very wet or dry spring that prevents farmers from planting an early crop, they could decide to plant something different later in

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the season.” Alabama’s 2018 cotton acreage is forecast at 470,000 acres, up 8 percent from last year. Hornady said the increase is likely the result of favorable changes for cotton that are predicted in the upcoming farm bill. Alabama farmers reported they intend to plant 260,000 acres of corn, up 4 percent from last year, according to the USDA report. Typically planted in the fall, winter wheat acreage is expected to jump 27 percent in Alabama this year, according to USDA. Hornady said the increase is likely the result of normal fall planting conditions returning to Alabama. USDA predicts state farmers will plant about 190,000 acres – up from 150,000 the previous year. “Fall planting of winter wheat last year was delayed because some fall crops were harvested late, and dry conditions followed,” she said. “Consequently, a lot of acres destined for winter wheat never got planted.” USDA predicts160,000 acres of peanuts will be planted in Alabama, an 18-percent drop from 2017. Alabama Peanut Producers Association Executive Director Caleb Bristow said less peanut acreage is likely the result of low 8

prices caused by a plentiful supply of peanuts on hand. "Spring (peanut) contracts are low, signaling the market does not need a lot of peanuts right now,” Bristow said. “Considering higher cotton prices, peanut farmers are looking at other options to cash flow their operations this year." Farmers “follow the money” by planting crops they believe will be the most profitable, Hornady said, but other factors play a role. “Farmers rotate crops because rotation helps soil remain healthy,” she said. “Each crop has different demands on the soil. Crop rotation allows the soil to replenish itself.” Nationally, USDA reports an estimated 89 million acres of soybeans will be planted in 2018, down 1 percent from last year. Corn acreage is estimated at 88 million acres, down 2 percent from 2017. All cotton planted is estimated at 13.5 million acres, 7 percent above last year. Peanuts planted are estimated at 1.54 million acres, down 18 percent. Visit nass.usda.gov for more crop details. The next opportunity to evaluate actual acreage decisions will be USDA’s June 29 acreage report. n M ay 2 0 1 8

Jasper Pork Producer Provides Input On Checkoff Programs

aniel Tubbs, a pig farmer from Jasper in Walker County, served as a delegate to the Pork Act delegate assembly Feb. 28-March 2 in Kansas City. Tubbs was appointed by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue. “It was important to me to represent pork producers from across the U.S. as a Pork Act delegate,” Tubbs said. “As an Tubbs industry, we are committed to ‘elevate U.S. pork as the global protein of choice by continuously and collaboratively working to do what’s right for people, pigs and the planet.’ This was reinforced throughout the Pork Act delegate meeting.” Tubbs was among 163 appointed delegates who traveled from 47 states to represent pork producers and importers who sell pork products in the U.S. Delegate duties include nominating members to serve on the National Pork Board, establishing how much of the Pork Checkoff is returned to state pork organizations and providing direction on pork promotion, research, and consumer and producer education priorities. To fund programs, America’s pork producers contribute 40 cents of every $100 of sales to the checkoff. Importers use a sales formula to contribute a similar amount. The role of the Pork Checkoff is to promote and enhance consumer pork demand on a global basis, as well as to invest in research designed to improve production practices and safeguard the pork supply, the environment and animal well-being. “It has never been more critical that we work together as producers, processors and food-chain partners to provide high-quality pork products to consumers,” Tubbs said. n M ay 2 0 1 8

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Statewide Tour Showcases Alabama Agricultural Diversity To AU Students By Debra Davis

wenty-eight Auburn University (AU) students spent their spring break discovering the state’s agricultural diversity, thanks to the Alabama Wheat & Feed Grain Producers and AU’s College of Agriculture. The Alabama Ag Expedition covered nearly 1,300 miles in six days from March 11-16. It included 19 stops at farms and agricultural industries from the Tennessee Valley to the Gulf of Mexico. Students learned about row crops, catfish, cattle, poultry, horticulture, forestry, agritourism and trade. “Agriculture is Alabama’s largest industry, with an over $70 billion economic impact. We wanted to show students the diversity of our state,” said Alabama Wheat & Feed Grain Committee Chair Scott Saucer of Monroe County. “Our hope is this trip familiarized students with on-farm production and related

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Above: Auburn students Jake Patterson and Alysa Gauci examine seedlings at Bonnie Plants in Union Springs. Below: Students toured Tri-County Peanuts in Atmore. The week long tour was sponsored by the Alabama Wheat & Feed Grain Producers.

industries and encouraged them to seek career paths in our state. The opportunities in agriculture are endless, whether you want to farm, work for an ag lender or educate others through Extension and ag education.”

That mission was accomplished, according to Alysa Gauci of Foley, a junior majoring in biosystems engineering and sustainability studies. “I’ve always been really passionate about agriculture and

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wanted to explore different areas of ag throughout our state,” she said. “This trip was surprising, honestly. Seeing how much agricultural diversity we have in our state was amazing. I can’t put into words how thankful I am for this experience. I had the opportunity to meet so many people around our state and so many great farmers who were willing to answer all of our questions.” Jake Patterson of New Market is a senior majoring in agronomy and soils. He called the trip an eye-opening venture. “All too often we get in a comfort zone of what we know or think we know,” he said. “Seeing so many different types of farming and agricultural industries was a fantastic opportunity. It was interesting to see how people in different areas of the state farm — some of it’s very different depending on where we were. We don’t have many poultry farms in my area of the state, and we certainly don’t have catfish farms. I’ve also made a lot of new friends on the trip, and I made professional contacts that I wouldn’t have otherwise.” Dr. Amy Wright, the College of Agriculture’s associate dean for instruction, described the trip as an outstanding educational opportunity that wouldn’t have been possible without the farmers who funded it. “The trip was invaluable,” Wright said, “not just because of what they learned about Alabama agriculture, but the relationships they built with each other and

farmers and industry leaders they met. After every stop, the students continued to have conversations among themselves discussing what they saw. It was a fast-paced, intense trip, but they stayed engaged throughout the week with lots of questions and comments.” The Alabama Farmers Federation’s Carla Hornady echoed Wright’s sentiments, saying the weeklong tour was a worthwhile investment in Alabama agriculture. “Our farmers realize many students don’t have a farm background but still want to pursue degrees in agriculture,” said Hornady, the Federation’s Cotton, Soybean and Wheat & Feed Grain divisions director. “We certainly

want to encourage those pursuits and encourage those students to seek careers in Alabama.” Students earned a spot on the tour by applying through AU College of Agriculture advisers. In preparation for the trip, students compiled information about the farms and industries they would visit. Following the tour, attendees presented to fellow AU students and other groups about what they learned. Students also earned course credit through AU by attending the expedition. For photos of the tour, visit the Federation’s Facebook page or Flickr account and look for Alabama Ag Expo ’18. n

Above: Wallace Drury of Drury Catfish Farms in Greensboro discusses catfish harvest with Auburn University staffers Dr. Amy Wright and Megan Ross. Right: Parnell Inc.'s Joseph Parnell (red helmet) discusses timber harvest with students at a logging site near Maplesville.

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Female Farm Leaders Learn To Advocate At Annual Conference By Debra Davis

emale farm leaders from across Alabama learned how to become better agriculture advocates during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s annual Women’s Leadership Conference in Birmingham April 4-6. Author and ag advocate, Michele Payn encouraged the 240 Federation members at the conference to become better representatives for the 1.5 percent of the population who grow food for the rest of America and the world. Butler County’s Sylvia Peterson said the speakers were excellent, but she especially liked the Ag in the Classroom (AITC) workshop where attendees learned to encourage educators to use agriculture in their daily school activities. “Besides the workshops, entertainment and good food, meeting other ladies from around the state who have a passion for agriculture is a wonderful opportunity,” said Peterson, who raises timber near Greenville with husband Everett. “We learn a lot of good ideas from listening to what other counties are doing to promote agriculture.” The AITC workshop was conducted by Martha Hill and Julia Howell of Alexandria Elementary School. The conference also included a workshop by executive chef Martha Folse, author of Screen Doors and Sweet Tea: Recipes and Tales from a Southern Cook. During the breakfast Thursday, Federation leaders delivered an update on upcoming political races, w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Above: From left, Butler County Farmers Federation's Sylvia Peterson, Linda Rogers and Ada Sue Thompson enjoyed activities at the Ag in the Classroom workshop during the Federation Women's Leadership Conference in Birmingham. Left: Peterson said she especially liked making pigs from paper plates in the workshop.

encouraging members to work for candidates who will help farmers and rural Alabama. “I’ve often said if you want something done, look first to the Women’s Leadership Committees,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “You are the ones we can count on to get things done.” Conference attendees joined the Alabama Farm-City Awards Luncheon, where many members and their counties were honored for outstanding work for county programs. “The Women’s Leadership Conference is a wonderful opportunity for our members to network with others across the state,” said Federation Women’s 12

Leadership Division Director Kim Ramsey. “In addition to learning ways to better promote agriculture through workshops and speakers, county organizations share successful activities they’ve done throughout the year.” At the conference, county committees hauled in 703 pounds of aluminum pop tabs for Ronald McDonald Houses to help house families with ill children. St. Clair County turned in nearly 124 pounds, and Lawrence County turned in just over 119 pounds. Conference entertainment included humorist Lisa Smart of Dresden, Tennessee, and Cruizin’ Keys of Nashville, a dueling piano show. Visit the Federation’s Facebook page for more conference photos. n M ay 2 0 1 8

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or Wendell Wilson of Calhoun County, family took on new meaning March 20 as neighbors pitched in to clear debris and salvage machinery following storms the previous evening. “A lot of memories were blown away last night,” said Wilson, whose childhood home near Jacksonville was devastated in the wake of an EF-3 twister. Storms ripped across Calhoun, Cullman, Cleburne and neighboring counties March 19. The storm destroyed a cotton picker, sprayer, equipment shed and silo on Wilson’s property. The National Weather Service confirmed at least nine tornadoes hit north-central Alabama that night. The storm’s 150 mph winds and baseball-sized hail struck near spring planting — a pivotal time for Wilson’s cotton and cattle farm. “I expressed concern to my Alfa Insurance agent about getting my sprayer in the field, and he said he’d take care of it,” said Wilson, the Calhoun County Farmers Federation president. “If people ever went through a situation like this, they would appreciate Alfa and the claims department for taking care of their customers.” The day following the tornado, Alfa Agent Jamie Cosper was on site with adjusters analyzing Wilson’s claims. Over 70 adjusters worked more than 4,000 claims statewide following the storms, the structural damage of which Cosper compared to the April 2011 tornadoes that ravaged north Alabama. “We’ve had mixed damage reports — from total-loss houses to homes and cars with minor damage,” said Cosper, who spent 3 1/2 hours traveling 1/4 mile home from a storm shelter after the storm. “From a claims standpoint, our customers appreciate Alfa in times like this. They know we’re here for them.” Felled trees and power lines, homes with structural damage, ruined equipment and banged up vehicles with shattered windows were common sights w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Alfa Insurance Helps Customers Recover After Tornadoes By Marlee Moore

around Jacksonville, Cosper said. Farms, residential property and Jacksonville State University sustained damage. The storm caused no fatalities. Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell thanked agents and adjusters for their diligence helping customers get back on their feet. “Before some customers could file a claim, their agent was checking in to make sure they were all right,” Parnell said. “We share in their sorrow over lost possessions and memories, but are grateful for the chance to help them recover, 14

A tornado struck Calhoun County Farmers Federation President Wendell Wilson's farm March 19, destroying his barn, equipment and grain silo. He is shown with Alfa Insurance claims adjuster Reece Newman.

refocus and rebuild.” Federation members supported the Wilsons, too, with friends across town and across county lines checking in and volunteering time and equipment. “Families and people from the Federation came out to help us,” Wilson said. “Taking care of each other when we’re in need — that’s what this organization is about.” n M ay 2 0 1 8

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judges. “Our farmers sponsor the contest to encourage consumption of the wholesome, nutritious catfish we raise,” Nelson said. “We’re thankful for all the restaurants in Alabama that serve our homegrown product, and we appreciate their customers.” Fried is probably the most popular way catfish is prepared, Nelson said, but it’s also delicious broiled, baked, sautéed and blackened. No matter how it’s cooked, Southerners crave catfish, and through the challenge, customers can share why their favorite restaurant is Bama’s best. The winner of Bama’s Best Catfish Restaurant Challenge will be announced in August, which is National Catfish Month. Additionally, each finalist will receive a plaque; the winner will receive a plaque and cash prize; and all four will be featured in Neighbors magazine. Facebook users will also select a People’s Choice Award from the finalists. n

he Bama’s Best Catfish Restaurant Challenge is back for its third year, and the Alabama Catfish Producers hope to reel in new fans of the flavorful fish with the contest. “Few things are more Southern than delicious catfish,” said Alabama Catfish Producers Chairman Sid Nelson of Epes. “When consumers eat catfish, we want them to make sure they’re getting U.S. FarmRaised Catfish, and we want to know who’s the best when it comes to preparing our favorite fish.” The Alabama Catfish Producers, a division of the Alabama Farmers Federation, is sponsoring the annual contest. Catfish lovers are asked to nominate their favorite restaurant through a post on the Alabama Farmers Federation Facebook page or at AlabamaCatfish.org. Nominations end June 12. Four finalists will be selected from the nominations for the Bama’s Best Catfish Restaurant Challenge. A team of judges, including an Alabama catfish farmer, will visit finalists in late July. Restaurants will be asked to prepare their most popular catfish dish for the

Visit AlabamaCatfish.org for a complete list of rules.

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he Alabama Farmers Federation, the state’s largest agriculture organization, is bringing its popular Farm & Land Expo to Montgomery this summer, begging the question — is there a better place to market your company? Held Aug. 4 in conjunction with the Federation’s annual Commodity Producers

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For information about exhibiting, contact Brittany Daniel at (334) 613-4750 • bdaniel@alfafarmers.org w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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Alabama Youth Excel During Three-Day Junior Beef Expo By Mary Johns

ours of training, grooming and practicing culminated in applause, ribbons and banners for winning youth livestock exhibitors at the 60th Alabama Junior Beef Expo (JBE) March 15-17. JBE was presented by the Alabama Farmers Federation with numerous community and business sponsorships. “I’m convinced what we’re doing to support this event is one of the most important things we can do for our state,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “These young people are our future, and we need to help them prepare to be leaders.” Special guest Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey provided words of support to exhibitors when she visited the JBE March 16. Held inside Teague Arena on the Garrett Coliseum grounds in Montgomery, winning exhibitors were awarded thousands of dollars in prize money. Special college scholarships were also presented. “I’ve been showing for nine years — so, half of my life,” said Chilton County’s Aniston Bolding, who plans to join a livestock judging team next year in college. “It’s taught me life lessons, like how to be a humble winner and a gracious loser. It’s also taught me to appreciate agriculture and the livestock industry and how to be a voice for it.” Bolding said she would

Above: Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey visited with Aniston Bolding of Chilton County during the 2018 Junior Beef Expo. Left: Montgomery County’s Katie Langley was among 175 youth who exhibited 325 calves during the Junior Beef Expo March 15-17 in Montgomery.

encourage others to get involved in livestock shows. “It doesn’t matter if your calf is not as good as others, you can succeed in showmanship if you work with your animals,” said Bolding, who won first place in Class 2 Senior Division Showmanship. “As you get more experience, you’ll appreciate your cattle more when you’re able to get better animals. Showing livestock will make you a better person.” For the Market Show and the

Heifer Show held March 15 and 17 respectively, division winners were awarded based on cattle breed and performance. The March 16 Showmanship contest split competitors into classes based on age, and awards were presented based on the exhibitor’s skills in the ring. In total, 175 youth exhibited 325 animals in the expo. JBE is held annually in conjunction with the SLE Rodeo. n

Check out all the winning exhibitors in the following pages. M ay 2 0 1 8

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2018 Market Show

Grand Champion

Reserve Grand Champion

Ashlyn Ruf of Limestone County won Grand Champion. She is pictured with her Shorthorn Plus division champion steer, Mr. Incredible.

Chelsea Langley of Chambers County won Reserve Grand Champion. She is pictured with her Charolais division champion steer, Bliz.

Third Overall Champion

Ashlyn Ruf of Limestone County won Third Overall Champion with her Crossbred division champion.

Fourth Overall Champion

Caden Childers of Morgan County won Fourth Overall Champion with his reserve champion Charolais.

Fifth Overall Champion

Cheyenne Ritter of Lauderdale County won Fifth Overall Champion with her Crossbred reserve division champion.

London Steele of Baldwin County won division champion for All Other Breeds.

Silas Gullatt of Lee County won division champion for Herefords.

Cameron Catrett of Crenshaw County won division champion for Shorthorns.

Reagan Murphree of Blount County won division champion for the Chianina breed.

Reagan Murphree of Blount County won division champion for the Maine Anjou breed.

Tucker Hilyer of Chilton County won division champion for Simmentals.

Callie Rae Childers of Morgan County won division champion for Market Heifers.

Trace Strock of Autauga County won division champion in Performance Documented.

w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

M ay 2 0 1 8

Awards & Scholarships

Sarah Parker of Chambers County received the BJ Rice Memorial Scholarship during the Junior Beef Expo March 17 in Montgomery. The award was presented by the Alabama Junior Shorthorn Association (AJSA). She is pictured with AJSA leaders and members of the Rice family.

Michael Morrison of Clay County, second from left, received the 2017 Amanda Pounds Memorial Award during the Junior Beef Expo March 17 in Montgomery. The award is presented by the Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association (AJCA). From left are Matthew Pounds, Morrison, Kathy Pounds and Morgan Pounds.

Lakin Whatley of Montgomery County received the 2018 Amanda Pounds Memorial Award during the Junior Beef Expo, March 17, in Montgomery, Ala. The award is presented by the Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association (AJCA). From left are Matthew Pounds, Whatley, Kathy Pounds and Morgan Pounds.

Cameron Catrett of Crenshaw County was presented the $500 Alabama Cattlewomen’s Louise Wilson Scholarship at the Junior Beef Expo March 16 at the Teague Arena in Montgomery. She is pictured with judge Owen MacFarlane of Texas A&M University, Alabama Cattlewomen and past scholarship recipients.

The “Best Five Head” county group went to Cullman County. Reserve was Chilton County, third place was Montgomery County, fourth was Tuscaloosa County, fifth was Lauderdale County and sixth was Baldwin County.

Brittney Hutson of Randolph County won first place in Ultrasound Contest during the 2018 Junior Beef Expo in Montgomery.

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w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

2018 Heifer Show

Grand Champion

Reserve Grand Champion

Dow Boyd of Coffee County won Grand Champion. He is pictured with heifer HLVW Pays To Shine 1730. This award is sponsored by Alabama Power. Dow also won champion for the Simmental division.

Dow Boyd of Coffee County won Reserve Grand Champion. He is pictured with heifer Miss CCF Danica 105. This award is sponsored by PowerSouth. Dow also won champion for the Percentage Simmental division.

Third Overall Champion

Emma Merriman of Etowah County won Third Overall Champion with her All Other Breeds (AOB) division champion.

Cameron Catrett of Crenshaw County won division champion for Lim-Flex and B&O champion.

Jewel Thompson of Lee County won division champion for Performance Documented and won B&O champion. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Fourth Overall Champion

Karleigh Allison of Blount County won Fourth Overall Champion with her Chianina division champion.

Corey Short of Chilton County won division champion for Texas Longhorn.

Victoria Thompson of Lee County won B&O champion for the All Other Breeds (AOB) division. 22

Fifth Overall Champion

John Evans Thrower of Marshall County won Fifth Overall Champion with his Angus division champion.

Emma Claire Long of Dale County won division champion and reserve champion for Santa Gertrudis.

Will McClelland of Montgomery County won division champion for Brahman.

Sydni Benefield of Cullman County won B&O champion for the Chianina division.

Tanner Denney of Chilton County won champion for the Shorthorn division. M ay 2 0 1 8

Visit JrBeefExpo.com for full show results, the exposition program, links to photos and the streamed video of the event.

Abby Allred of Chilton County won champion for the Shorthorn Plus division.

Kaitlyn Tindell of Geneva County won B&O champion for the Shorthorn Plus division.

Madison Caylor of Mobile County won B&O champion for the Percentage Simmental division.

Will Jordan of Clay County won champion for the Maine Tainer division.

Evan Roden of Cullman County won B&O champion for the Maine Tainer division.

Nathan Alexander of Cullman County won champion for the Charolais division.

Eliza Downey of Autauga County won B&O champion for the Charolais division.

Natalie Lovell of Limestone County won champion for the Commercial division.

Special Thanks To Our Platinum Level Sponsors

M ay 2 0 1 8

w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

2018 Bred & Owned Top Five

Grand Champion

Reserve Grand Champion

Bryce Hendricks of Coffee County won grand champion B&O and also Hereford division champion.

Cameron Catrett of Crenshaw County won reserve grand champion B&O and also Shorthorn reserve division champion.

Third Overall Champion

Ella Grace Downs of Elmore County won third overall B&O champion from the Commercial division.

Fourth Overall Champion

Rayne Starkey of Jackson County won fourth overall with his reserve champion B&O from the Hereford division.

Fifth Overall Champion

Cheyenne Walker of Madison County won fifth overall B&O champion from the Angus division.

Special Thanks To Our Gold Level Sponsors Cowboy Tag

w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

M ay 2 0 1 8

2018 Showmanship Division Winners Showmanship was sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation.

Gus Ashley of Montgomery County was the Champion Junior Showman at the Junior Beef Expo Pictured with Ashley are judge Owen MacFarlane of Texas A&M University, Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, friends and family.

Alec Ashley of Cherokee County was the Reserve Champion Junior Showman at the Junior Beef Expo. Ashley is pictured with parents Amanda and Aaron Ashley, judge Owen MacFarlane of Texas A&M University and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

Victoria Thompson of Lee County was the Champion Intermediate Showman at the Junior Beef Expo. Thompson is pictured with judge Owen MacFarlane of Texas A&M University, Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell and sister Jewel Thompson.

Ace Ashley of Cherokee County was the Reserve Champion Intermediate Showman at the Junior Beef Expo. Pictured with Ashley are parents Amanda and Aaron Ashley, judge Owen MacFarlane of Texas A&M University and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

Rayne Starkey of Jackson County was the Champion Senior Showman at the Junior Beef Expo. Starkey is pictured with mother Robyn Starkey, judge Owen MacFarlane of Texas A&M University and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

Ashlyn Ruf of Limestone County was the Reserve Champion Senior Showman at the Junior Beef Expo (JBE). Ruf is pictured with judge Owen MacFarlane of Texas A&M University and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

M ay 2 0 1 8

w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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Legislative Session Brings Good News For Farmers, Rural Alabama

armers and rural families will benefit from actions during the 2018 Regular Session of the Alabama Legislature, which saw bills pass aimed at improving broadband access, irrigation, agricultural education and the clarity of tax laws. Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell thanked legislators for recognizing the importance of agriculture and forestry — the state’s largest industry. “This was one of the most positive legislative sessions in recent history for Alabama farmers and landowners,” Parnell said. “Our economy is strong, and this gave legislators the flexibility to address some of the challenges keeping rural Alabama from enjoying the same benefits as our cities and towns.” One barrier to economic growth and a better quality of life is lack of internet access. Gov. Kay Ivey and the state Senate made expanding rural broadband a priority for the session. Sen. Clay Scofield, R-Red Hill, and Rep. Donnie Chesteen, R-Geneva, sponsored the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Act, which will provide grants through the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs to companies investing in broadband infrastructure for underserved areas. Legislators also approved two bills aimed at increasing on-farm irrigation. Chesteen sponsored a measure clarifying existing irrigation tax credits for farmers. The bill specifies farmers may claim the credit for one qualifying irrigation system or reservoir in 2011-17 and another during 201822. Current law caps credit for the 2011-17 program at $10,000 and $50,000 for tax years 2018-22. Ivey also signed a bill by Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, giving the Agricultural and Conservation Development Commission greater w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

From left at the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Act signing March 28 were Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Director Kenneth Boswell; Rep. Donnie Chesteen, R-Geneva; Gov. Kay Ivey; and Sen. Clay Scofield, R-Red Hill.

flexibility in targeting federal funds to high-impact projects, including irrigation. The bill, which was supported by the Alabama Association of Conservation Districts, could help Alabama secure additional federal funding to improve the utilization of soil and water resources in the state. Meanwhile, the Legislature affirmed Alabama’s commitment to exempt farm products from sales tax by clarifying current law. The legislation by Rep. David Sessions, R-Grand Bay, and Sen. Tom Whatley, R-Auburn, specifies Alabama’s current state sales tax exemption applies when a farmer cultivates and harvests an agricultural product on leased or rented land. The bill also states gross receipts from the sale of pine straw products by the person who harvested the product are exempt from state sales tax. Agriculture and forestry fared well in the state’s Education Trust Fund (ETF) and General Fund (GF) budgets, which included pay raises for teachers and state employees. The $2 billion GF budget fully funds the Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO) program at the Alabama 28

Department of Environmental Management at $575,000. It also includes $81,403 in matching funds to help Alabama expand on-farm irrigation through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries was funded at $12 million, including $3 million for the Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) program. The Alabama Forestry Commission was level funded at $7.6 million. The $6.6 billion ETF budget provides $5 million for career tech operations and management. Another $5.4 million was set aside for the career tech initiative, including an additional $300,000 for agricultural education programs like Ag in the Classroom and Classroom in the Forest. The Liberty Learning Foundation, a citizenship education program supported by the Alfa Foundation and others, received $75,000. Rural medicine programs at Auburn University, Tuskegee University, the University of Alabama and the University of Alabama in Huntsville were level funded at $2.4 million total. The Soil M ay 2 0 1 8

M ay 2 0 1 8

one member of the Alabama Environmental Management Commission. It allows a professional geologist to serve on the seven-member panel. Current law requires the seat to be held by a certified well driller, which has created challenges in finding a qualified appointee. n

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and Water Conservation Committee was level funded at $1.5 million, while the RC&D program was up $250,000 to $2 million. Funding for the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station increased $881,000 to $32 million, and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System received an additional $919,000 to $33.4 million. The budget also includes a conditional appropriation of $7.4 million for grants to expand high-speed internet access under the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Act. Other successful legislation included a bill by Sen. Steve Livingston, R-Scottsboro, and Rep. Kyle South, R-Fayette, increasing the annual appropriation for the Emergency Forest Fire, Insect and Disease Fund from $180,000 to $250,000. The bill also increased the fund cap from $1 million to $2 million. South and Scofield also sponsored a bill giving the governor greater flexibility in appointing

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Ag In The Classroom Institute Inspires Educator To Create Soil Day Event By Mary Johns

ost people look at a pile of dirt and see just that — dirt. But teacher Ginger Boyd wanted her students to see more. “Soil touches everything — our food, shelter and clothes,” said Boyd, who teachers fourth-grade science and math at Slocomb Elementary School (SES). “We have to make sure students learn this is not just dirt — it’s soil.” Boyd is a two-time Alabama Ag in the Classroom (AITC) Summer Institute participant, and she attended the 2017 National AITC Workshop. From those experiences, Boyd was inspired to create Geneva County’s first Soil Day Festival for fourth-graders from the county’s four schools. “AITC helped me realize I could work agriculture into my science lessons,” Boyd said. “Our last nine weeks is an earth science unit, and I wanted to kick it off with something related to soil. These students all know agriculture. Even if they don’t live on a farm, they can associate with it because they drive by farms.” During the festival, over 200 students moved through 10 interactive stations. They painted with soil; drew soil layers; watched a machine take a soil sample; created a dessert with ingredients that represented soil layers; and learned to identify fertile and infertile soil. “This is not just playtime out here,” said Suzanne Owens, the w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Above: Fourth-graders create works of art with mud and paint during Geneva County’s first Soil Day Festival. Left: Students learn to identify fertile and infertile soils.

event’s co-coordinator who also teaches fourth-grade science at SES. “Through writing, drawing and explaining, they’re learning to appreciate the importance of soil.” Boyd and Owens relied on volunteers from participating schools, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, AgriAFC and Alabama National Resources Conservation Service to staff the event. An AITC grant helped cover program costs. “Along with free, online AITC resources, the mini-grant program is the perfect way for educators to fund innovative educational ideas,” said Kim Ramsey, Alabama Farmers 32

Federation Women’s Division director and Alabama AITC Steering Committee chairman. “Ginger and Suzanne are proof that determination and passion can make a little funding go a long way.” Boyd said she’s hopeful eight months of planning the Soil Day Festival will pay off. “This event gives students tangible lessons so they can

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BIG OLD BOYS By Sean Dietrich, Sean of the South

Soil Day Festival participants each planted their own tomato seeds in portable containers. They were challenged to transplant the tomato at home once it started growing.

connect these activities with what we talk about in the classroom,” she said. Visit AlabamaAITC.org for teacher and student resource links and applications. Minigrant applications are due annually around Oct. 15, and Alabama AITC Summer Institute applications are due annually around April 15. n

saw him a few months ago, with his son, at a barbecue joint in Middle Alabama. A place that serves spicy pulled pork sandwiches big enough to qualify as real estate. His son had grown even taller than his daddy, which is saying something. His daddy is no shorty. When I pumped the boy’s skillet-sized hand, it was hard not to feel like a river shrimp. I remember when my wife used to babysit this freckle-face, he was no bigger than a Twinkie back then. Now, he’s a six-foot-seven man. Not a freckle on him. His daddy and I suﬀered through the awkward Gosh-I-Dont-KnowHow-We-Lost-Touch ritual — both of us exaggerating how busy we’ve been. When the truth is, some folks aren’t meant to be friends for more than a few summers. I asked how his wife was getting along. He hung his head. “Well, you must’ve heard, Sylvia’s dying.” You could’ve knocked me over with a stiﬀ breeze. Sylvia — which is not her name — is a woman in her mid-forties with white-blonde hair and a warm helping of personality. She led the Women’s

Prayer Group. Because, you see, Sylvia is a Baptist more sincere than a locustand-honey sandwich. She’s no stranger to malignant things, either. She must’ve prayed for a million folks in her time. Sometimes her prayers whipped cancer into remission. Other times, not. Her own fate; one of the latter instances. “We prayed the Lord would heal her,” said her husband. “But, it’s been a long ﬁght. Well… That is… When God takes her home…” No sooner had he said it than his son buried his own head into his jacket. I tried not to stare at the boy while he choked on his tears. Besides, the kid’s a man now. It’s impolite to stare at a man who’s sobbing. Even though the fella is the size of a live oak tree. After a few minutes, the boy sniﬀed and said, “I’m sorry I cried like that, sir.” No you’re not, son. Don’t be sorry. And next time, don’t stop crying until you’re good and ready. She’s your mama. She deserves every ever-loving tear you’ve got. n

Columnist and novelist Sean Dietrich shares tales of common people, the human spirit, traditional regional music and life in the American South through his podcast series at SeanDietrich.com. M ay 2 0 1 8

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By Lois Chaplin

ooking for a dramatic touch for the porch, patio or by the front door? Don’t underestimate tried-and-true giant ferns. Their arching fronds punctuate a space and look especially glamorous in a tall container or urn. Several very large ones — up to 6 feet in diameter — appear in garden centers in spring and early summer. They love the warm, humid air of summer as long as there is some shade (full sun fades and burns the leaves). Here’s some helpful information about some common ones. Boston Fern (Nephrolepsis exaltata Bostoniensis) is the old, classic basket fern that has hung gracefully from porch overhangs for decades in the South. This old fern was discovered in Boston in 1895 as a more graceful, arching sport of the upright sword fern that grows in the ground in subtropical Florida. At the time, sword fern, which is native to Florida, was widely used as a houseplant. Boston ferns proved to be a better houseplant and replaced sword ferns as potted plants. Over time, there have been many variations: Dallas fern (a compact form), Florida Ruffle (with

frilly edges) and Roosevelt fern (ruffled, extra-long, 3-foot fronds). Kimberly Queen (Nephrolepsis obliterata ‘Kimberly Queen’) is a full, upright, 3-foot-wide fern. Its fronds are straight and narrow, but with wavy edges and darker green leaves than Boston ferns. This one is originally from Australia, which makes it a little more tolerant of sun. Winter hardy in zone 9, it grows outdoors year-round in extreme south Alabama, but it is not salt tolerant, so avoid the beach. Fishtail Fern (Nephrolepsis falcata ‘Furcans’) has a frilly look with leaflet ends that split into a fish-like tail. The 3-foot-long fronds of this large selection are excellent for a large basket or urn. This is the fluffiest looking of them all. Macho Fern (Nephrolepsis biserrata ‘Macho’) is a big, coarse-textured fern with bold, broad leaves that makes Boston ferns look small by comparison. The arching fronds can be 4 feet long, so plants are easily 6 feet or wider. This is a showy fern, and it will fill a space well. It’s a great one for decorating a church altar, a wedding venue or any large, open space.

To care for these ferns, keep them watered and fed. Fertilize with a mild, liquid fertilizer when watering, or make it easier by sprinkling controlledrelease fertilizer granules such as Osmocote at the base once or twice during the growing season. Keep moist, but not wet. Clip off yellowing fronds at the base. Like all ferns with big leaves, protect or move during a severe storm to keep the fronds from getting beaten by wind and hail. Plants can overwinter indoors, but if their shedding becomes a problem, move to a cool, but not freezing, basement or garage. If the entire plant looks bad, it’s okay to cut it all back to just a few inches tall, but be patient. It may take a couple of months outdoors to fill out when warm weather returns. An instant pick-me-up for an open space, try one or two of these ferns. A little goes a long way. n Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers

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Vaccinations Vital For Horse Health By Katie Nichols

og has always been “man’s best friend,” but the bond between horse and human may rival that love. Good equine care, including a vaccination plan, helps secure that bond. Dr. Courteney Holland, an Alabama Extension animal scientist, said vaccinating is important to protect horses and humans. Mosquito-borne viruses like Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV) are prevalent in Alabama’s warm and wet climate and pose a threat to unvaccinated horses. EEE: A Mosquito-Borne Illness Warm months bring a heightened risk of horses contracting mosquito-borne illnesses. EEE is one of the most deadly. Also known as sleeping sickness and commonly associated with horses, few human cases are reported in the U.S. annually. Reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate a 33 percent mortality rate in humans who contract the

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disease, ranking EEE one of the most severe mosquito-transmitted diseases. While there’s no vaccine for humans, Holland said there’s little reason for a horse to contract the disease because a safe, inexpensive vaccine is available. “Administer a primary series of two doses with a four- to six-week interval between doses for adult horses that are previously unvaccinated,” Holland said. “Revaccinate before the onset of the next vector season and annually thereafter.” EEE is nearly always fatal in horses. The disease is characterized by the progressive failure of the horse’s central nervous system. Holland said symptoms include head pressing, convulsions, lack of response to facial stimulation, fever above 103 F, ataxia, paralysis, anorexia, depression and stupor. Other symptoms may include irregular gait, teeth grinding, circling and staggering. However, an infected horse may not exhibit all symptoms. EEE may also be transmitted to horses from wild birds or rodents via other blood-sucking insects. Young horses are particularly susceptible.

Once a horse develops EEE, Holland said there is little owners can do. The mortality rate is nearly 90 percent. “If a horse survives, it will show gradual improvement of function over weeks or months, but the horse may never fully recover,” she said. “Horses may have permanent brain damage.” Minimize Exposure The simplest way to reduce exposure for both humans and horses is to eliminate breeding grounds. Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water sources. Don’t allow buckets, wheelbarrows, old tires or troughs to collect water. Store items indoors or upside down to prevent water collection. Emptying water troughs every few days will minimize mosquito-breeding opportunities. Equine owners may also use insect repellents for their horses and themselves to slow the spread of the disease. Turning off stable lights at night also reduces the number of insects attracted to the facility. n

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fresh, ripe strawberry is one of nature’s most delicious treats. It would seem something so tasty couldn’t possibly be packed with nutrition, but God saw fit to give the strawberry its incredible sweetness along with plenty of vitamins and minerals. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamins C and K and also contain healthy doses of fiber, folic acid, manganese and potassium. In Alabama, strawberries are in season from late March to early June. This time of year, roadside stands and farmers markets are brimming with the bright red fruit, festivals centered around strawberries can be found all over the state, and fresh strawberry desserts are abundant. Jeremy and Julie Calvert are produce farmers in Cullman County and grow about an acre of strawberries each year along with peaches, watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, okra, green beans, peas, pumpkins, potatoes, cabbage, collards, onions and sweet corn. They run their own produce stand in addition to selling their fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers markets in Walker and Cullman counties. Jeremy is on the Cullman County Farmers Federation board of directors and is a member of the Federation’s State Horticulture Committee. “Jeremy didn’t really like strawberries before we started growing them,” Julie said. “He had only ever had them from the grocery store, and they’re just not the same. To be able to pick a strawberry out of the field and eat it is something special.” Julie and Jeremy both work on the farm full time, and Julie spends her summers selling produce six days a week. Julie said she answers several questions each year about fresh produce and GMOs. “I have to educate customers sometimes — there are very few GMO fruits and vegetables,” Julie said. “I had a customer try to tell me once that my strawberries were GMO because they were big and pretty. There’s no such thing as a GMO strawberry.” The Calverts and other produce farmers work hard to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to customers. Growing fruits and vegetables requires a lot of hand picking and care for the land. “It’s a lot of low-down work, but it’s worth it to be able to provide the best produce to people in our community,” Julie said. “We work hard to take care of our land so we can keep doing this for generations to come — if we don’t take care of the land, it won’t take care of us.”

By Jill Clair Gentry

EASY FRUIT DIP Courtesy of Julie Calvert Start-to-finish: 5 minutes Makes 2 cups of dip 8 ounces cream cheese 7 ounces marshmallow spread

Blend cream cheese and marshmallow fluff together. Keep refrigerated until use. Serve with fresh strawberries. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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STRAWBERRY JAM BARS Courtesy of Julie Calvert; adapted from the Taste of Home cookbook Start-to-finish: 45 minutes (15 minutes active) Makes 2 dozen bars 1/2 cup butter, softened 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1 egg 1 box French vanilla cake mix 1 cup finely crushed cornflakes 1 cup strawberry jam or preserves

Heat oven to 350 F. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg; mix well. Gradually add dry cake mix and cornflakes. Set aside 1 1/2 cups for topping. Press remaining dough into a greased 13-by 9-inch baking dish. Carefully spread jam over crust. Sprinkle with reserved dough; gently press down. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into bars.

NO-BAKE FRESH STRAWBERRY PIE Courtesy of Julie Calvert • Start-to-finish: 15 minutes • Makes 1 pie 1 1/2 cups cold water Mix water and corn starch in a 6 teaspoons corn starch saucepan. Stir over medium heat 4 teaspoons sugar until bubbly. Sprinkle sugar and 1 3-ounce package strawberry Jell-O Jell-O into mixture. Stir well, cool 3 cups sliced strawberries and add strawberries. Pour into 1 graham cracker pie crust pie crust. Top with Cool Whip. Cool Whip Refrigerate. STRAWBERRY CAKE Courtesy of Julie Calvert; adapted from Cooks.com Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 10 minutes (25 minutes active). Serves 8 1 package strawberry Jell-O medium speed until well blended. 1 package white cake mix Add eggs, one at a time, beating 1/2 cup water well after each addition. Add 1 cup oil strawberries. 4 eggs Grease and flour a 9-by 1/2 cup frozen strawberries 13-inch cake pan and pour batter For icing: into pan. Bake for 30-45 minutes, 1 pound powdered sugar until a toothpick inserted into 1/4 cup melted butter the center of the cake comes 1/2 cup frozen strawberries out clean. To make icing: use an Heat oven to 325 F. In a electric mixer to blend powdered mixing bowl, stir Jell-O and cake sugar, butter and strawberries mix together. Add water and oil. together with electric mixer. Mix with an electric mixer on Spread on cooled cake. M ay 2 0 1 8

STRAWBERRY PUDDING TRIFLE Courtesy of Julie Calvert Start-to-finish: 30 minutes 2 pints fresh strawberries, capped 3/4 cup sugar 1 3-ounce box strawberry Jell-O 2 3-ounce boxes vanilla or strawberry créme instant pudding 3 cups cold milk 8 ounces sour cream 1 16-ounce container Cool Whip 1 30-ounce box vanilla wafers

In a large saucepan, heat strawberries, sugar and Jell-O until sugar melts. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine instant pudding, milk, sour cream and Cool Whip. When strawberries are cool, build the trifle in a large glass bowl or trifle dish. Begin with a layer of the strawberry mixture, add a layer of vanilla wafers and then add a layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat until bowl is full. Cover and refrigerate, preferably overnight. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Alabama Extension Beef Basics

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Alabama beef producers used online courses, iBooks, and webinars to improve on-farm management and reported an estimated savings of

per head of beef cattle.

We Believe in Farm Profitability

ROI = 53:1

Return on Investment (ROI): the economic impact compared with the cost of creating the Extension program

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Work Together!

Sylvia Griffith and Elizabeth Lockhart Multigenerational Beef Producers Oak Grove, Alabama

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Everyone is welcome! ÂŠ 2018 by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. www.aces.edu ACES-2432