Neighbors Magazine, July 2017 by Alabama Farmers Federation

Get parched this summer. Grab a cold cola and a bag of fresh parched peanuts, and enjoy your summer. It's how we roll in the South.

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VOLUME 42,

NUMBER 7

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

July 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

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.

Ag In The Classroom

Ripe For The Picking

11 Beefing Up Trade With China 16 A Century Of Living

23 Top Teacher Honored

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

28 It’s Peach Season

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

Watermelon farmers Brie and Trav Foster of Fort

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. www.AlfaFarmers.org

Deposit enjoy a delicious slice of melon with their dog, Ruger.

Photo by Caleb Hicks

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 J u ly 2 0 1 7

PRESIDENT

ALABAMA

E D E R AT I O FA R M E R S F

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Farm Tours Highlight Ag In The Classroom Summer Institute By Ellie Isbell

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Photo by Caleb Hicks

he Alabama Ag in the Classroom (AITC) Summer Institute equipped 90 teachers to share the importance of agriculture with their students. Kindergarten through sixthgrade teachers from across the state participated in workshops and farm tours in Tuscaloosa and Hale counties May 31-June 2. For many teachers, including Trinity Presbyterian School’s Susan Brown, Thursday’s farm tours were the most exciting facet of the institute. “I won’t necessarily remember everything that was said this week, but I will remember the sights, sounds, smells and tastes we experienced on the tours,” said the 32-year veteran teacher. “I love the fact that we saw catfish being harvested, and then we ate fried catfish for lunch. We used our five senses, and this is what I want to bring back to my students.” Cyndal Whiten, a second-grade teacher at Pike Road School, already plans to incorporate the knowledge she gathered in her classroom this fall. “It was a great learning experience,” Whiten said. “I think it’s important to teach our students to be inquisitive about where their food comes from.” Seven teachers from Pike Road

Agriculture in the Classroom Summer Institute attendees visited catfish, cattle and row crop farms. Top photo, teachers toured Drury Catfish Farm. Above, Joe Acker talks to teachers who toured Acker Cattle Co.

attended the institute and plan to use existing garden and chicken coop facilities to start Farm Fridays at the school. “We have already begun talking about how we can use the skills we learned this week to make Farm Fridays a school wide event,” said Whiten, who just finished her first year of teaching. “We want to get every grade involved in agriculture.” Teachers weren’t the only ones who enjoyed the annual event. Farmers who were part of the program said they appreciated the chance to talk to teachers about 4

farm life and work. Annie Dee, a row crop farmer from Pickens County, was among four farmers who visited with teachers during a panel discussion. “The teachers’ questions were so insightful,” Dee said. “They asked about the future of agriculture, and they seemed to thrive on what we said.” Panel questions covered livestock and poultry production, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), food safety and agricultural technology. “Teach your students where their food comes from, and J u ly 2 0 1 7

encourage them to pursue careers in agriculture,” said Dee, who didn’t know she wanted to be involved in agriculture until college. “Start developing a knowledge for agricultural careers at a young age. Students can do much more than become a farmer when they get involved in the industry. The sky is the limit.” Attendees toured Drury Catfish Farm, Acker Cattle Co. and the Greensboro Opera House in Hale County and Anders Row Crop Farm in Tuscaloosa County. The tour concluded with a trip to the Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa. To kick off the conference, Excellence in Agriculture Teaching Award recipients presented seminars on successful agricultural projects used in their classrooms.

Other activities included hands-on crafts and introductions to online resources for agricultural lesson plans and games. Teachers also received over $250 worth of educational materials for their classrooms. In addition to materials, teachers received continuing education credits. Brown said the perks were nice, but the learning experience was invaluable. “Farmers are our heroes. If there were no farmers, there would be no food,” she said. “I can’t wait to get back to the classroom and teach this to my students.” Alabama Farmers Federation Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Ramsey also chairs the AITC state committee. She said hosting the event in west Alabama

showed teachers the diversity of Alabama agriculture, from row crops to cattle and catfish. “Not only do they learn new classroom activities, they also learn directly from farmers,” Ramsey said. “The tours and panel discussion are an excellent way to dispel much of the inaccurate information consumers sometimes hear about farming.” The Federation sponsors AITC with funding primarily from the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation’s ag tag sales. The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries and state agriculture organizations also support AITC. For more photos, visit the Federation’s Flickr or Facebook page. n

Clockwise, right, Wallace Drury and Pike Road Schools teacher Cyndal Whiten examine a catfish from Drury Catfish Farm; Teachers learned ag-based classroom activities; Teachers captured photos of catfish being harvested at Drury's farm. Photos by Caleb Hicks

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Watermelons Make Way For Young Farmer To Follow His Passion By Debra Davis

etermination, courage and youthful optimism provided the perfect combination for a Fort Deposit young farmer to follow his dream. After graduating with a degree in finance from Harding University, Trav Foster, 23, turned down a lucrative corporate job to follow his heart and return home to farm. “I only own the acre our house is on, and I don’t own any equipment. But I knew this was what I wanted to do,” Trav said. “Growing up, my dad had cows and hay, so I’m familiar with that side of farming. But row crop farming was new to me. I wanted to learn all I could about it. “I went to work for Steve Tanner, who has a large farm in Greenville. He’s taught me so much — more than I ever could learn from a book. He’s an outstanding farmer.” With a desire to grow a crop of his own, Trav leased a few acres, borrowed equipment from his father, Steve Foster, and planted his first 5 acres of watermelons three years ago. That first year was difficult, but the experience was educational, Trav said. “There’s a lot more to growing watermelons than putting seed in the ground,” he said. “I learned a lot from my own mistakes, and I had help from some local farmers.” A pair of Lowndes County brothers, Zollie and Henry “Debo” Heartsill, have grown watermelons for decades. They helped him make a go of it, Trav said, adding that their advice was invaluable. Trav and his wife, Brie, met in college and married about a year ago. She said she knew Trav wanted to return home to farm, and it would be a big change from her hometown of Long Island, New York. The speech pathology student said she loves the country and helping her husband farm. “He’s so passionate about it,” w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Brie and Trav Foster inspect their watermelon crop, which could yield up to 20,000 pounds of melons per acre. This is their third year growing the summertime treat on their Lowndes County farm.

she said. “It’s hard work, but it’s so satisfying.” With his third crop of watermelons set for harvest this month, Trav is optimistic about the 20 acres he planted. He said he hopes to harvest as much as 20,000 pounds per acre. “Last year, we had 11 acres and did pretty well,” he said. “We developed more customers, and my dad helped me get a deal with the Piggly Wiggly store in Camden to sell our watermelons.” Trav increased his acreage after meeting Will Dodd of Heirloom Harvest at the Alabama Fruit and 6

Vegetable Growers Conference in November. Connections there helped increase his market opportunities. So, each day, after working nearly 12 hours at Tanner’s farm, Trav heads home to tend to his own fields till sundown. “One day I’d like to plant my own row crops and see our operation grow,” he said. “But I don’t think you have to have a big farm to be successful. I think Alabama’s future in growing fruits and vegetables is ripe for the picking.” n J u ly 2 0 1 7

Public Relations, Public Policy Interns Start Summer Work

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Bryan brings a set of unique talents to the table. “Thomason has developed public speaking skills and the ability to convey ideas to those around her,” said Helms, the Federation’s Public Relations and Communications Department director. “We look forward to utilizing those abilities this summer to help our members, our staff and the agriculture industry.” At Samford, Bryan is in a social sorority and is a member of the National Student SpeechLanguage-Hearing Association. She has also competed in the Miss Alabama Pageant. Nichols, a Jefferson County Nichols native, will work with the Governmental and Agricultural Programs (GAP) Department assisting with state

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and national legislative program and policy development initiatives. “I look forward to working with agricultural policy firsthand and am thankful for this unique opportunity,” said Nichols, a 2016 Auburn University (AU) poultry science graduate. “This is a great way to refine some of the practical skills I learned in my first year of law school.” GAP Department Director Brian Hardin said Nichols brings a wealth of knowledge to the Federation. “As a law student, John Allen has strong research and analytical skills,” Hardin said. “Coupling those skills with his ag knowledge greatly benefits the Federation as he communicates ag law information to our members, advocates on issues and streamlines the Federation’s policy book.” At AU, Nichols was Ag Ambassador president and a member of the Block and Bridle Club and Poultry Science Club. n

he Alabama Farmers Federation rounded out its crew of summer interns when Samford University's Thomason Bryan joined the organization June 12. Faulkner University law student John Allen Nichols began a Bryan Federation a public policy internship May 22. Bryan, a senior in communication studies, will work on promotional projects, conduct research and assist with the “Simply Southern TV” show. “I’m so excited to work with the Alabama Farmers Federation this summer,” said the Montgomery County native. “This internship will hone my communication skills and give me the exposure needed to begin my career.” The Federation’s Jeff Helms said

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Federation’s Green, Walker Chosen For Commodity Director Roles

labama Farmers Federation has announced commodity directors for its Catfish, Forestry and Wildlife Divisions and the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association (ATFA). William Green is ATFA executive director and Forestry and Wildlife Divisions director. Mitt Walker now serves as Catfish Division director, Green in addition to his role as National Legislative Programs director. Changes follow the departure of former ATFA and commodity divisions director Rick Oates, who became state forester in April. “We met with farmers and forest owners to better understand their needs and identified directors to achieve their goals,” said

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Brian Hardin, the Federation's Governmental and Agricultural Programs Department director. “William did a good job with the ATFA and feral swine issues under Rick's guidance. Mitt has experience as catfish director and is well respected by Alabama producers and industry leaders.” Green continues to manage issues regarding feral swine, land use, property rights, endangered species and invasive species. A Pintlala native, Green is a 2014 Auburn University wildlife sciences graduate. He became a commodity director in April 2016. William and wife Mallory live in Montgomery. “I’m excited to continue working for our members,” Green said. “I’ve enjoyed my time with them so far and look forward to seeing what we can accomplish in the future.” Walker was Catfish Division

director from June 2005 until November 2011, when he became National Legislative Programs director. He continues to manage issues concerning international trade, the Farm Bill and policy development and implementation. Walker is a Troy University environmental analysis and management graduate. He and wife Brandi have Walker three children, Olivia, Addi Leigh and Ford. They live in Montgomery. “I'm thrilled to work with our Catfish Division again,” Walker said. “I look forward to rekindling relationships across the catfish industry and hope my recent experience managing federal issues allows me to better serve the division.” n

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Relationships That Pay Dividends.

“Our relationship with Alabama Ag Credit allowed our farm to grow. It’s refreshing to work with a company that understands agriculture and knows us as a friend not just a client.” - Nealy Barrett Jr., Elmore County

From left , Justin and Jordan Barrett with their children Brantley and Nealy, Jennie Barrett and Dr. Nealy Barrett Jr.

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Don't miss the inaugural

Alabama Farm Expo Saturday, Aug. 5 1 - 5:30 p.m. at the 46th Commodity Producers Conference

Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex Join us that morning for: Seminars highlighting ○ Drought effects on forests ○ Forage management ○ Agriculture’s economic outlook and more! Young Farmers contests A keynote address from the University of Florida’s Dr. Kevin Folta Donations to Children's Hospital of Alabama will be taken at the door.

For details, visit tinyurl.com/alabamafarmexpo.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT

Rafe starkey

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Jackson County’s Rafe Starkey knows the value of hard work. The 27-year-old Pisgah native has two poultry houses and raises 100 brood cows at his 88 Farms. The former Jackson County Young Farmers chairman is currently the local Hay & Forage Committee chair. Starkey and his wife, Chante, have been married five years and have two sons, Colter and Bronson.

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Registratio n Not Requir ed

What DO few people know about you?

I team rope. A family friend got me involved in rodeo when I was young. I competed in high school at the state rodeo and was state runner-up. I still rodeo, but not as much as I used to.

Why is farming more than just a job?

I love what I’m doing. I like seeing baby chicks come in, and in seven weeks, you see them weigh 7 pounds. That’s magnificent to me.

describe your federation involvement.

Growing up, my parents were on our local board. Three years ago, I got on the board and became the Young Farmers chairman. It’s a good opportunity to help people my age understand agriculture’s importance.

Roll Tide or War Eagle?

War Eagle! There is so much good agricultural information that comes out of Auburn. They’re on the cutting edge of everything.

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Cattlemen Optimistic About Beefing Up Trade With China By Ellie Isbell

xcitement among beef farmers is high after President Donald Trump’s administration announced a trade proposal allowing U.S. beef imports into China as early as July 16. Cattle farmers across Alabama are hopeful the proposal will increase market prices after a subpar 2016. “Last year, the market took a very sharp downturn, and this year, prices have already been reasonably high,” said 23-year-old Lawrence County cattleman Mitchell Henry. “I’m hopeful the market will climb even higher with this trade deal.” American farmers like Wilcox County cattleman Jake Harper are eager to tap into the $2.6 billion Chinese beef market. Harper said he was thrilled to learn the 13-year-old ban could be lifted. “I think it’s a win-win situation,” said 61-year-old Harper. “If we can access the 1.3 billion people in China, I think it will help every phase of the cattle business.” J u ly 2 0 1 7

Wilcox County cattleman Jake Harper, above, and Lawrence County cattleman Mitchell Henry, left, are optimistic about future beef sales to China.

According to Alabama Farmers Federation’s Nate Jaeger, Alabama cattlemen can expect indirect market benefits. However, determining the trade proposal's value, particularly for Alabama farmers, is difficult, he said. “We know more legitimate access to one of the fastestgrowing beef markets in the world is positive,” said Jaeger, the Federation’s Beef Division director. For some cattlemen, a slight 11

revenue increase can determine their cattle operation’s prosperity. “Hopefully we will see a rise in the cattle market, and it will be profitable for people to stay in the cattle business,” Harper said. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Purdue commended the work of U.S. and Chinese officials on the deal. “We will once again have access to the enormous Chinese market, with a strong and growing middle class, which had been closed to our ranchers for a long, long time,” said Purdue in an earlier statement. “When the Chinese people taste our high-quality U.S. beef, there’s no doubt in my mind that they’ll want more of it.” n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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Chilling Fresh Produce Helps Farmers Meet Market Demands By Ellie Isbell

mobile cold-storage units. “We took a standard box trailer and gutted it down to the frame,” said McKinney, who was instrumental in transforming the original plan from South Carolina University into a working product. “Then we added 4 inches of foam insulation and reinforced fiber board to the sides and installed aluminum tread plates on the floor.” Standard home air conditioning units were added to each trailer. “The internal thermostat of the air conditioner normally drops to 61-62 degrees,” said McKinney, who has retrofitted nine trailers with the help of his FFA groups. “Using CoolBot technology, we can actually drop the temperature down into the 30s using a home air The cold storage trailers are used by farmers to conditioner unit.” Lauranne cool down fresh-picked vegetables to maintain James, Northwest maximum freshness. Alabama RC&D Council executive director, said students also benefit from the project. “We are not only helping our fruit and vegetable producers,” James said. “This project gives students hands-on experience that will benefit them long after this project is complete.” Students must pass safety training certification and learn precision measurement; heating, ventilation and air conditioning installation; and metal work. They apply math skills to calculate the trailers' internal volume. McKinney, a teacher for 19 years, said former students had simpler building projects. “I couldn’t bring myself to continue building birdhouses with these kids,” McKinney said. “Our technology has grown so far beyond that in agriculture, and now my students can say, ‘Look what we made that will have a lasting impact.’” n

weltering Alabama summers take a toll on people, animals and even produce, but farmers in northwest Alabama have a new way to beat the heat. The Northwest Alabama Resource, Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council received a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to retrofit cold-storage trailers for farmers’ use during harvest. Certain produce must be chilled immediately to reduce field heat and maintain maximum freshness, but logistical constraints often prevent this from happening. These trailers are designed as portable, foodgrade, cold-storage systems for easy use in the field. For Winston County’s Charles Brannon, this technology improved his strawberry sales. “I am thankful to borrow this trailer,” said Brannon, who grows an acre of strawberries and sells at a roadside stand in Addison. “We picked 30-gallons of berries, and we would have lost about half of them due to heat without the cold trailer.” Before using the trailer, Brannon said the strawberries would spoil within 24 hours of harvest. The trailer also reduces time Brannon and his family spend picking fruit. Because he can store chilled strawberries, they only harvest every other day and still have fresh produce to sell. Colbert County High School (CCHS) FFA students, led by instructor Jeff McKinney, were an important part of the project. They added air conditioners and insulation to transform simple cargo trailers into J u ly 2 0 1 7

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BEEF IT UP

Our farmers help feed catfish, poultry and horses, too.

WHEAT & FEED GRAIN PRODUCERS

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Alabama Farmers Federation Endorses Luther Strange For Senate By Jeff Helms

armPAC, a political action committee of the Alabama Farmers Federation, endorsed Sen. Luther Strange as U.S. Senator for Alabama May 22. “Sen. Strange has proven his commitment to Alabama farmers and forest owners by seeking and securing appointment to the Agriculture Committee and continuing the fight against regulatory overreach,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “Alabama farmers have enjoyed a close working relationship with Sen. Strange, and we look forward to helping him address the needs of rural Alabama as U.S. senator.” FarmPAC advisory trustees recommended the endorsement after hearing presentations from 11 of the 19 candidates seeking the office. The special primary election for the U.S. Senate seat will take place Aug. 15, 2017. If needed, runoffs will be Sept. 26. The general election is Dec. 12. Strange thanked Federation leaders for their endorsement. “It’s an honor to receive this endorsement from Alabama Farmers Federation and the Alabamians they represent,” Strange said. “These are the hard-working people who clothe us and feed us, create jobs in our communities, and keep our economy thriving. It’s a privilege to be their voice in Washington as I serve on the Agriculture Committee, and I look forward to continuing to defend their rights against federal overreach as we roll back the job-destroying red tape from the Obama administration.” Before election as Alabama's attorney general in 2010, Strange was in private law practice in Birmingham. Among his clients were greenhouse, nursery and sod growers whom he advised related to water restrictions during severe J u ly 2 0 1 7

U.S. Sen. Luther Strange, right, talks to Hale County farmer Tommy Martin during a visit to Martin's farm earlier this year. Strange serves on the Senate Agriculture Committee.

drought. As attorney general, Strange vigorously defended Alabama’s property tax system, including current-use classification for farms and forestland. He also was a vocal opponent of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, challenging the measure in court. “Agriculture is Alabama’s No. 1 industry, and it is important to have a senator on the Ag Commit15

tee,” said Parnell. “Sen. Strange will play a pivotal role in the design of the next farm bill and will also be in a strong position to advance other policies that benefit farmers, consumers and Alabama as a whole.” Alabama Farmers Federation is the state’s largest farm organization with more than 357,000 member families. Founded in 1921, the organization is a member of the American Farm Bureau Federation. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

One Hundred And Counting

How Campers, Cooking And Chickens Charted Beatrice Crow’s Course By Marlee Moore

eatrice Crow has a sweet tooth, the kind where no day — or meal — is complete without a fix of pie, cake or cobbler. For some, that’d raise a red flag taller than Lookout Mountain, but Crow is content. After all, the white-haired matriarch has already lived a century. A sliver or two of homemade key lime pie topped with fresh whipped cream won’t hurt a thing. Crow was born Beatrice Kerby Oct. 18, 1916, the third of six children on a farm near Ider in DeKalb County. In 1935, the 19-year-old future Mrs. Crow and another girl walked near 20 miles to interview for work at Alpine Camp for Boys in Mentone atop Lookout Mountain. “I got the job, and she didn’t,” said Crow, who met husband L.C. when he was selling vegetables to Alpine. That first summer cooking in the camp kitchen set the stage for 67 more years making up menus for hungry campers and counselors. “The boys would go in the woods and pick blueberries,” said w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

At 100 years old, Beatrice Crow still lives atop Lookout Mountain in Mentone, less than a mile from Alpine Camp for Boys, where she cooked meals for campers and staff each summer for almost seven decades.

Crow’s daughter Karen Tate, 66. “She would make muffins just for their cabin out of the blueberries they picked.” Her tenure serving up Alpine stew, blueberry cobbler and her signature thin, crispy biscuits ended in 2003 following heart surgery in 2002. Her doctors were, of course, former campers. But her time-tested, camperapproved recipes live on at Alpine, as oldest daughter Gail Collins now cooks for over 300 campers. The Crow daughters (granddaughters and a couple great-grands, too) grew up in the Alpine kitchen, whipping up food for boys who evolved from camper to kitchen help, to counselor, to father dropping his son off for an Alpine adventure. With her flawless makeup, spitfire personality and stellar culinary skills, Crow had every wholesale distributor, farmer and Alfa Insurance agent in the palm of her hand. “They came to Alpine at mealtime,” said Collins, 75. “Mother 16

started that, and we’d give them a plate. The Alfa agents would always laugh about going to Bea’s to eat.” During those visits, Crow purchased life insurance policies to protect her family. She didn’t expect, at age 100, to see those policies mature, giving her and the family added financial security during retirement. Alfa’s Rob Robison, senior vice president of life insurance, said Crow’s story is unusual. “It’s always an honor to deliver on the promise of life insurance by writing a check to a grieving family,” Robison said. “But it’s even more satisfying to bless a family while they’re able to enjoy spending time with their loved one.” Like Alfa’s promise to its customers, Crow remained dedicated to Alpine. When its original lodge, kitchen and dining area burned almost 50 years ago during counselor training, Crow’s approach to dinner was simple — dish up meals J u ly 2 0 1 7

from her house less than a mile away. Changing clothes up to six times daily was normal during summer, necessitated by trips between Alpine, helping neighbors, working in the garden, running a country store and tending cattle. “She always had something for us to do,” Collins said. “And the neighbors, too.” L.C., a boilermaker in Chattanooga, also built chicken houses — with 90,000 laying hens — for his wife in the ‘70s. “She said it was a vacation to come here,” said camp owner Dick O’Ferrall. The Crows were married just 37 years before L.C. died in 1976. “She was like a buzz saw, and he was like a turtle,” said Collins, whose mother was back at camp two days after L.C.’s death in July. In near seven decades filling the bellies of thousands of campers, Crow left her mark. Last October, hundreds of cards streamed in from places like Australia, New York, the Carolinas, Mississippi and Colombia to congratulate her on a century of life. Campers’ memories are peppered with songs harkening the glories of Mrs. Crow and her chow, the classic opening day meal of chicken potpie and dough ball fights while making those unforgettable biscuits. “She didn’t ask any of them to do anything she wouldn’t do herself,” said Tate. Collins added, “And she’d do it twice as fast as them.” Crow’s work ethic was even highlighted in a World magazine story, the editor of which had two sons at Alpine. Before Alpine and after high school, she lived with Berry College founder Martha Berry, helping the family, working in the bakery, taking classes and meeting Model T inventor Henry Ford. She and L.C. also lived a stint in Baltimore, where Crow worked for the family who owned Proctor & Gamble. J u ly 2 0 1 7

Today, the matriarch of five children, 11 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren still lives less than a mile from camp, with cattle across the road, a garden out back, and remnants of poultry houses, which burned in the ‘90s, behind her house. O’Farrell remembers Crow’s words after the inferno. “That night, she came down to camp and said, ‘We’re having chicken for supper tonight.” n

In her century of life, Beatrice Crow has seen a lot. She’s raised five children with husband L.C., tended cattle, looked after 90,000 laying hens, cooked for over 300 campers each summer, operated a country store and cared for her community.

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County Annual Meetings COUNTY AUTAUGA

CHILTON CHOCTAW

DATE TIME BUILDING Wed., Aug. 16 07:00 PM Autauga Co. Ag Center Thu., Aug. 10 07:00 PM Baldwin Co. Fed. Bldg. Thu., Aug. 10 07:30 PM Clayton Dime Store Restaurant Tue., Aug. 22 05:30 PM Bibb Co. Fed. Building Thu., Aug. 17 06:30 PM Frank J. Green Building Thu., Aug. 17 06:30 PM Greenway Sportman’s Lodge Thu., Aug. 10 06:30 PM Calhoun Co. Fed. Building Mon., Aug. 28 12:00 PM Alfa Service Center Fri., Aug. 11 06:30 PM Dean Buttram Senior Center Tue., Aug. 15 07:00 PM Alfa Service Center Tue., Aug. 22 06:00 PM Alfa Service Center

CLARKE

Thu., Aug. 24 06:30 PM

CLAY

Thu., Aug. 24 07:00 PM

CLEBURNE

Tue., Aug. 8

COFFEE

Mon., July 17 06:30 PM

COLBERT

Mon., Aug. 28 06:30 PM

CONECUH

Tue., Aug. 22

COOSA

Thu., Aug. 10 06:30 PM

BALDWIN BARBOUR BIBB BLOUNT BULLOCK CALHOUN CHAMBERS CHEROKEE

COVINGTON Tue., Aug. 22

06:30 PM

06:00 PM

06:30 PM

CULLMAN

Thu., Aug. 10 07:00 PM

DALE

Mon., Aug. 14 07:00 PM

DEKALB

Tue., Aug. 15

06:30 PM

ELMORE

Tue., July 25

07:00 PM

ESCAMBIA

Tue., Aug. 29

06:00 PM

ETOWAH

Mon., Aug. 14 06:30 PM

FAYETTE

Thu., Aug. 31 06:30 PM

FRANKLIN

Tue., Aug. 29

7:00 PM

GENEVA

Tue., Aug. 8

07:00 PM

GREENE

Tue., Sept. 12 06:00 PM

HALE

Thu., Sept. 7

01:00 PM

HENRY

Tue., Aug. 1

07:00 PM

HOUSTON

Thu., Aug. 17 06:30 PM

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ADDRESS CITY 2224 Hwy Autaugaville 14 W. 21332 Hwy 59 Robertsdale

COUNTY JACKSON

DATE Tue., Aug. 1

JEFFERSON

Fri., Aug. 25

LAMAR

Tue., Aug. 15

LAUDERDALE

Tue., Aug. 22

LAWRENCE LEE

Thu., Aug. 10 06:00 PM Lawrence County Ag Center Mon., July 17 06:30 PM Lazenby Farms

LIMESTONE

Thu., Aug. 17 06:30 PM

MACON

Mon., Aug. 7

06:30 PM

MADISON

Mon., Aug. 7

05:30 PM

MARION

Fri., Aug. 11

06:00 PM

MARSHALL

Tue., Aug. 22

10 Eufaula Ave. Clayton 1101 Walnut St. Centreville 415 5th Ave. E Oneonta 2621 Hwy 223 Union Springs

1535 Pelham Rd. S 1006 Ave. A SE 229 Dean Buttram Ave. 301 1st St. N 229 S. Mulberry Ave. Alfa Service Center 148 S. Jackson St. Miss Anita’s Café 30 South Park Dr. The Mountain 6751 Hwy 78 Center Community Room 1055 E. McKinnon St. NW - Shoals 800 George Comm. College Wallace Blvd. David Burt 102 Liberty St. Building Old Rockford Nixburg Rd & Schoolhouse County Rd. 18 Oakwood Lodge 13725 Brooklyn Rd. Cullman Co. Fed. 307 Main Ave. Bldg. NW Dale Co. Gov't 202 Hwy 123 S Building Alfa Service Center 346 McCurdy Ave. S Wetumpka High 1281 Coosa School River Pkwy Escambia County 175 Ag Science Ag Center Dr. Etowah Co. Fed. 125 Broad St. Building Boy Scout Bldg. 113 3rd Ave. NE (Old American Legion Building) Best Western Plus 13770 Hwy 43 Russellville Geneva County 2765 Hwy 52 Farm Center Greene Co. Fed. 101 Boligee St. Building Catfish Center 529 S. Centreville St. Wiregrass Research 167 E. State & Extension Center Hwy 134 Alfa Service Center 1038 Ross Clark Circle NE

Jacksonville Lafayette Centre Clanton Butler Grove Hill

TIME BUILDING 06:30 PM Jackson Co. Fed. Building 10:00 AM Birmingham Botanical Gardens

ADDRESS 23625 John T. Reid Pkwy 2612 Lane Park Rd.

06:30 PM Vernon Civic Center 44425 AL Hwy 17 07:00 PM Lauderdale Co. Ext. 802 Veterans Bulding-Ag Center Dr.

Lineville

CITY Scottsboro Mountain Brook Vernon Florence

13075 ALA-157 Moulton

11546 Lee Rd. 54 First National Bank 1880 U.S. Hwy 72 E Beck’s Turf Farm 2858 County Rd. 53 Huntsville Early 404 Madison Works Museum St. SE Hamilton 317 7th Ave. Recreation Center SW

Athens Tuskegee Huntsville Hamilton Guntersville

Evergreen

07:00 PM Marshall Co. Fed. Building MOBILE Tue., July 25 07:00 PM Jon Archer Center *Please Note New Location* MONROE Thu., Aug. 31 06:30 PM Monroe County Ag Center MONTGOMERY Mon., Aug. 21 06:00 PM Alfa Home Office

Rockford

MORGAN

Fri., Aug. 11

Hartselle

Andalusia

PERRY PICKENS

Tue., Sept. 5 11:00 AM Thu., Aug. 24 06:30 PM

PIKE

Thu., July 13

07:00 PM

RANDOLPH

Sat., Aug. 19

05:30 PM

RUSSELL

Mon., Aug. 21 7:00 PM ET/ 6:00 PM CT Mon., Aug. 21 06:30 PM Shelby County Museum & Archives

Heflin New Brockton Muscle Shoals

Cullman Ozark Rainsville Wetumpka Brewton

SHELBY

Gadsden

07:00 PM

1333 Blount Ave. 1070 Schillinger Rd. N 334 Agriculture Dr. 2108 E. South Blvd. Hartselle Civic 406 Nance Ford Center Rd. SW Alfa Service Center 406 Pickens St. Gates Restaurant 404 3rd Ave. NW Alfa Service Center 1208 S. Brundidge St. Randolph County 2959 County Ag Center Rd. 333 Seale Courthouse 91 Longview St.

Auburn

1854 N. Main St.

Mobile Monroeville Montgomery

Marion Aliceville Troy Wedowee Seale Columbiana

ST. CLAIR

Mon., Aug. 14 07:00 PM Alfa Service Center 32775 U.S. Hwy Ashville 231 SUMTER Mon., July 17 06:30 PM Alfa Service Center 106 Marshall Livingston St. TALLADEGA Thu., Aug. 17 07:00 PM Alfa Service Center 314 E. Battle St. Talladega

Fayette Russellville Geneva

TALLAPOOSA

111 N. Tallassee St. 350 Bobby Miller Pkwy 903 Airport Rd. S 54 Court St.

Dadeville

Headland

06:00 PM Tallapoosa Co. Fed. Building TUSCALOOSA Thu., Aug. 17 07:00 PM Bobby Miller Activity Center WALKER Tue., Aug. 29 06:30 PM Walker Co. Fed. Building WASHINGTON Mon., Aug. 7 07:00 PM Alfa Service Center

Dothan

WILCOX

933 AL-10

Camden

Eutaw Greensboro

Tue., Aug. 22

Thu., July 27

06:30 PM Gaines Ridge Dinner Club

Tuscaloosa Jasper Chatom

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Students Convene, Compete At State FFA Convention In Montgomery By Ellie Isbell

ver 1,500 students and advisers gathered in Montgomery for the 89th annual Alabama FFA State Convention June 7-9. Students competed in state career development events (CDEs),which the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Jennifer Himburg said teach students to get outside their comfort zones and hone critical professional development skills. “The Alabama Farmers Federation has a long-standing partnership with FFA to invest in future leaders,” said Himburg, the Federation’s Young Farmers Division director. “Many of the students involved in FFA will go on to make valuable contributions to the agriculture industry.” At the Federation’s career show booth, students maneuvered through a farm-themed obstacle course while balancing fidget spinners. Competitors with the 10 fastest times received Young Farmers beach towels. Tyler Kelly, a recent graduate of West Morgan High School in Trinity, said FFA involvement shaped his high school experience and made an impact that will last many years. “FFA opened my eyes to the jobs in agriculture,” said Kelly, a four-year FFA member. “So many jobs in America are related to agriculture, and I hope to one day be a part of the industry.” In the opening address, National FFA President David Townsend encouraged attendees to cherish their uniqueness while analyzing advice from those who see the world differently. “There has to be a balance between sharing our own ideas and J u ly 2 0 1 7

Above, the Federation’s Nate Jaeger times FFA students as they compete in a fidget spinner obstacle course at the state convention career show. The 10 fastest students won beach towels, and everyone who completed the course won a fidget spinner. Left, a student follows the Fidget Farm obstacle course.

seeking the viewpoints of others,” said Townsend, who is from Delaware. “Find someone who has an opposing viewpoint, and listen to what they have to say. Listening is learning.” 19

In addition to CDE winner announcements, students participated in convention workshops and explored the career show. New state officers were also inducted. Inductees into the Wall of Honor included former Federation Executive Director John Dorrill, former Federation State Board member and DeKalb County Farmers Federation President Waymon Buttram, and Himburg. The Federation’s Matthew Durdin and Leanne Worthington received Honorary State FFA degrees State CDE winners will represent Alabama at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, in October. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Alabama Farmers Fare Well In 2017 Regular Legislative Session By Jeff Helms

Sen. Tom Whatley, R-Auburn, and Rep. David Sessions, R-Grand Bay, sponsored successful legislation making technical changes to laws related to livestock markets and clarifying the authority of the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) commissioner over livestock markets in the state. Meanwhile, agriculture and forestry programs received favorable funding in the Education Trust Fund (ETF) and General Fund (GF) budgets. The GF budget fully funded the CAFO program in the Alabama Department of Environmental Management at $575,000, up $175,000 from last year. The Regional Conservation Partnership Program received $81,403 to promote efficient irrigation use. Funding for the ADAI increased $350,000 compared to the current fiscal year. The budget also moved the Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) program from the Soil and Water Conservation Committee to the ADAI. The Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) received $7.5 million, up $800,000. The appropriation included an additional $99,100 for rural and community fire protection. The Legislature also approved a $550,000 supplemental appropriation this year for the AFC from the Emergency Forest Fire Fund. The measure, sponsored by Rep. Kyle South, R-Fayette, and Sen. Trip Pittman, R-Montrose, is aimed at offsetting costs related to fall wildfires. The $6.4 billion ETF budget provided $5 million for Career and Technical Education Operations and Maintenance and $4.1 million for the Career Tech Initiative. The budget included $200,000 more for RC&D, bringing the total to $1.78 million. Other successful legislation included a measure allowing counties to create authorities for developing and operating agricultural centers. The legislation was sponsored by Rep. Lynn Greer, R-Rogersville, and Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence. A voluntary all-terrain vehicle registration bill by Rep. Will Ainsworth, R-Guntersville, won final passage. One of the final actions of the Legislature passing a redistricting plans. In January, a federal court ordered the Legislature to redraw the districts. The plan changes 25 of Alabama’s 35 Senate districts and 60 of the state’s 105 House districts. n

armers and forest owners fared well in the 2017 regular session of the Alabama Legislature, which was marked by a leadership change in the governor’s office. Alabama Farmers Federation priorities included passage of bills enhancing irrigation tax credits and the Farm-to-School program, as well as funding for the Concentrated Animal Feed Operation (CAFO) program and other agriculture and forestry activities. Brian Hardin, the Federation Governmental and Agricultural Programs Department director, said the successful session is a testament to the organization’s grassroots nature. “Federation policy begins at the county level, and it takes teamwork to promote and defend that policy,” Hardin said. “County leaders, commodity divisions and field staff all support our efforts at the State House. I especially want to thank legislative program directors David Cole and Matthew Durdin for their tireless work representing Federation members.” The irrigation incentives law increases the maximum tax credit for installing irrigation equipment or converting existing systems from fuel to electricity. Previous law, which went into effect in 2012, limited the irrigation credit to 20 percent of total cost not to exceed $10,000 in tax liability. The new language allows farmers to claim the greater of the current provision or 10 percent of accrued cost, not to exceed $50,000 in credit. Durdin thanked sponsors Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, and Rep. Donnie Chesteen, R-Geneva, for their leadership in securing passage. “We appreciate Senator Orr’s continued support for expanding irrigation in Alabama,” Durdin said. “He and Rep. Chesteen made passage of this legislation a priority in the closing days of the session when other bills were competing for spots on crowded legislative calendars.” David Cole said Rep. Elaine Beech, D-Chatom, championed the Farm-to-School legislation and other bills important to rural Alabama. “Rep. Beech’s bill will allow more farmers and lunchrooms to participate in Farm-to-School by aligning Alabama’s program with federal law,” Cole said. “We appreciate her loyal support of Alabama farmers and rural families.” w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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Save money all summer long with member benefits from AlfaÂŽ Farmers. Membership with the Alabama Farmers Federation costs just pennies a day, yet the savings available through its member benefits program can save members hundreds of dollars on everything from theme park discounts to hotel accommodations. Members also gain access to Alfa InsuranceÂŽ and the network of local agents dedicated to providing auto, home, life and business insurance.

For more money saving benefits, go to AlfaFarmers.org/Perks

Alabama’s Teacher Of The Year Rides Off With New Set Of Wheels By Mary Johnson

obile County School System educator Chasity Collier has a passion for making science come alive for her fifth-grade students at Dawes Intermediate School. But she never anticipated her love of teaching would earn her a new car. “It’s hard to believe that you can win a prize for doing something you love so much,” Collier said. She was named Alabama’s Teacher of the Year May 10. The next week, she got behind the wheel of the 2017 Chevrolet Traverse she’ll use during the next school year to travel as a spokesperson for the Alabama State Department of Education. “Teaching does as much for me as I hope it does for the young kids that are in front of me each day,” she said. “Students come to us with a blank slate. But as teachers, we can encourage them, and when we give them our love and support, students are inspired to color their future. They begin to see themselves in a different light and believe they can accomplish anything they set their minds to.” Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation employees applauded Collier as she received the keys to her vehicle outside the Little Alfa Day Care. This is the 21st year Alfa has presented the

From left are Alabama Superintendent of Education Michael Sentance, Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Alabama’s 2017-2018 Teacher of the Year Chasity Collier, Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan, Alfa Insurance Executive Vice President of Operations Steve Rutledge and Alfa Executive Vice President of Marketing Al Dees.

Teacher of the Year with a year’s use of a new car, while the Federation covers the cost of automobile insurance through Alfa. “It takes dedicated, passionate teachers like Ms. Collier to make a difference in the lives of young people in Alabama,” said Jimmy Parnell, president of Alfa and the Federation. “We wish her safe travels over the next year and good luck as she works to inspire other educators.” Alfa and the Federation are committed to supporting education in Alabama. Foundations estab-

lished by both groups distribute over $200,000 annually in college scholarships to students studying at Alabama technical schools, colleges and universities. They also support numerous FFA and 4-H events, as well as Alabama’s Ag in the Classroom program. Alabama State Superintendent of Education Michael Sentance thanked Alfa for providing a vehicle to the Teacher of the Year and commended all the state’s teachers who work hard to make a difference. “Teachers of the Year are, in fact, world changers, and we celebrate their commitment to students and to the colleagues who work alongside them each day,” Sentance said. “This partnership (with Alfa) is important to the Teacher of the Year program, and we’re grateful to Alfa for their work and their assistance to schools and classrooms.” Collier started teaching in 1998 and was an Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative coach from 2008 to 2015. She automatically became the state’s nominee for National Teacher of the Year. n Alabama’s Teacher of the Year Chasity Collier is greeted by children at Little Alfa Day Care before the car presentation.

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Hog Wild: Feral Swine A Big Problem For Alabama Landowners By Maggie Lawrence

t’s a sight no hunter wants to see — a food plot looking like a mud pit at a monster truck rally. Farmers find similar destruction in row crop fields, and landowners suffer damage to roads and pastures. The culprits? Wild pigs. Alabama Extension Wildlife Scientist Dr. Mark Smith said feral swine are one of the biggest problems facing hunters and landowners. “These animals are not native to the U.S. or even North America,” he said. “But they have made themselves at home since Spanish explorers brought the first pigs to the New World in the 1500s.” Their populations increased dramatically across the U.S. over the past 30 years. Now found in more than 35 states, wild pigs annually cause more than $30 million in agricultural damage in Alabama and an estimated $1.5 billion in damage nationwide. Eating and trampling crops like corn, soybeans, peanuts and small grains, coupled with rooting pastures and hay fields, are the most common forms of damage. “In forests, wild pigs cause significant damage through eating, rooting or trampling of tree seedlings and recreational food plots,” Smith said. “Additionally, pigs will root dirt roads and displace other wildlife species.” Extension’s Forestry, Wildlife and Natural Resources Team tackled the problem by coordinating six halfday workshops, as well as shorter programs and individual visits, to provide landowners knowledge and skills to reduce wild pig damage. Education focused on basic biology

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and ecology of wild pigs; management strategies and tools; and hands-on demonstrations capturing and euthanizing wild pigs. “A wild pig may cause $250300 in damages annually,” Smith said. “Assuming each landowner attending Extension programs reduced local wild pig populations by 10 animals, Alabama landowners effectively reduced or avoided almost $1.3 million in property damage or lost crops by applying the infor-

mation learned.” Visit aces.edu for more information on managing wild pigs and controlling their population. Other resources include Alabama Extension’s Wild Pig Management video series at ACES.edu/go/746 or the free Landowner’s Guide for Wild Pig Management at ACES.edu/go/747. n

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Jury Convicts Boaz Man Of Cattle Theft

Cherokee County jury convicted a Boaz man in May in connection with stealing nearly $20,000 worth of cattle from William Camper and Brodie Pack in June 2014. Michael Chad Stephens, 35, was convicted of Receiving Stolen Property First Degree in connection with stolen Charolais cattle taken from a pasture near his Etowah County home. About a year after the theft, in June 2015, an Etowah County investigator learned the missing cattle were on a Cherokee County farm. Special Agents Ira J. Whitehead and Tim Mathews of the Alabama Agricultural and Rural Crime Unit (ARCU), a division of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, assisted the local investigator in the case. Deputy District Attorney Scott Lloyd prosecuted the case. He told jurors the cattle sold for such a low price it was obvious they were stolen. Law enforcement officials said a case is pending against the suspect who purchased the cattle from Stephens. The stolen cattle included eight cows, two calves and a bull, which sold for about half their estimated value. To report rural crime, call ARCU at 1-855-75-CRIME or visit ARCU.Alabama.gov. n

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CatfishDaysBelzoni.com J u ly 2 0 1 7

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By Lois Chaplin

uly is the month for the first abundance of homegrown tomatoes, but how about being the gardener on the block with the very last tomatoes of the season, too? Now is time to plant a bountiful second crop that stretches tomato season to November. Late summer harvests may even be sweeter as slightly cooler nighttime temperatures allow more sugars to develop in the fruit. Starting tomato plants in July calls for a little extra effort and tender loving care for the young plants. Here are a few tips to start a second crop. Earlier in the season, tomato plants were for sale everywhere — at garden centers, grocery stores and local fundraisers. But now it may require extra searching for ways to start a fall crop. First, look for volunteer tomato seedlings already coming up in your garden from seeds of open-pollinated (non-hybrid) tomatoes that dropped to the ground. If so, consider these gifts, and encourage them to grow in place or gently transplant them to a better spot. Dig enough soil with the plants so as not to disturb the roots. There may still be the option of buying transplants, too. Bonnie Plants often has tomato varieties available in early July. Garden centers with many vegetable gardening customers also may offer fresh transplants for a second crop. Some gardeners start new plants by simply rooting suckers from existing plants. To do this, pinch off suckers that appear in the axils of the leaves and stem when they are 3 or 4 inches long. Stick the cut

ends an inch or so deep into small pots filled with sterile potting soil. Put the pot in a bright windowsill or in a shady spot outside and keep watered. When the plants begin growing, fertilize lightly, and transplant them to the garden. The trick is the cut suckers must be disease free, which isn’t easy this time of year. Choose healthy-looking (no spots, leaf curl, etc.) pieces. If the parent tomato plants are diseased, spray the new rooting suckers with a fungicide. A transplant can be started from seed, but at this late date, select only early maturing ones such as Early Girl, Juliet, Husky Cherry or other varieties with maturity dates of 55 to 65 days. Except in south Alabama, avoid varieties that take longer than 65 days. To get good harvests before temperatures get too cool to produce tomatoes, plants must flower and set fruit in warm weather. When days get shorter or cooler near the end of the season, toma-

toes ripen slower. The average date of the last frost in Mobile is Nov. 28. In Huntsville, it’s Nov. 4, so there’s more than a three-week difference from north and south Alabama. Plants set out now might even appreciate a little shade initially. Some gardeners create an umbrella for plants. They use a stem of evergreen leaves stuck into the ground on the south side of a transplant to cast a shadow on the young plant during the hottest part of the day. Water regularly. After a couple weeks in the ground, new roots begin to support the plant. Water and fertilize the plants regularly. With a little effort now, a second crop of good, homegrown tomatoes will have a place on the Thanksgiving table this year. This also applies to container-grown tomatoes. n Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

SIZZLING SUMMER DEALS! WWW.ALAFARM.COM w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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Cow-Calf Producers Conference Is Aug. 12

Jeff Register Building & Truss

RegisterFarmBarns.com

ow-calf producers across the state will gain valuable insight on how to rebuild their herds successfully during the Auburn University Department of Animal Sciences’ 2017 Beef Cattle Conference, Aug. 12, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Ham Wilson Livestock Arena in Auburn. The conference is designed to equip cattle owners with knowledge and management tools to better their operations in critical production areas. It will include reports on Auburn research, strategic crossbreeding, reproductive efficiency, forage system management and market projections. Workshops will focus on advanced technologies to optimize reproductive success; calving season preparation; beginning to farm/ranch with a niche in mind; and beef carcass cut-outs and evaluation. Conference registration is $60 before July 31 and $100 after. It includes a bound departmental report, conference presentation summaries, content for afternoon workshops and lunch. Producers are encouraged to register early at Aub.ie/ beef. Space for the conference is limited. For more information, registration, corporate partnerships or youth discounts, contact the Auburn Department of Animal Sciences at (334) 844-1521. n

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT

Max Bozeman

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Coffee County Farmers Federation President Max Bozeman is no stranger to service. The 63-year-old was Alabama Cattlemen’s Association president and served on the Cattlemen’s Beef Board and U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance (USFRA) board. Bozeman and wife of 42 years Kathy have two sons, Steven and Charles, and live in Danleys Crossroads.

40’ x 60’ x 12’ - Installed Roof only, closed gables - $7,642 Roof only, open gables - $6,850 30’ X 40’ X 10’ - Installed Roof only, open gables - $3,950

Locations: Gulfport, MS Canton, MS Highland Home, AL

Prices do not include tax and delivery.

Office (228) 678-0971 Cell (228) 234-9115 JRegister@registermetals.com

1 2 3 4 27

Were you raised on a farm?

We farmed hogs, cows, corn and peanuts on the Crenshaw/Coffee county line and grew cotton a year or two. But my daddy came through the Depression and didn’t like waste from mechanized cotton pickers.

What does your farm look like these days?

I haven’t farmed row crops, other than to feed cattle, in 15 years. I’m trying to build a base and a yield until we see the new farm bill. We have 115 mama cows and also do custom butchering each year.

Why did you get involved in the Federation?

I started in Young Farmers almost 40 years ago. This organization gives you an outlet for your frustrations and teaches you to stay viable in farming. We have to keep consumers happy and stay on top of legislation.

What has the USFRA taught you?

I gained knowledge I wouldn’t have gotten staying at home. The USFRA shows consumers we’re not mistreating our animals. We’re doing everything we can to provide good, wholesome food for our customers. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

By Jill Clair Gentry

PEACH AND BLUEBERRY YOGURT CAKE From JuliasAlbum.com Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 20 minutes (20 minutes active) 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 stick butter, softened 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 cup Greek yogurt 2 peaches, sliced into wedges 6 ounces blueberries 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

ummer in the South wouldn’t be the same without peaches. Whether eaten as-is, in a dessert or even as a sweet element to complement a savory dish, summer peaches don’t disappoint. Few people know peaches as well as residents of Chilton County — Alabama’s peach capital. Since the early 1900s, farmers have cultivated peaches there. Today, peaches are Alabama’s No. 1 commercial fruit, with Chilton County producing up to 75 percent of the state’s crop each year. And few Chilton County residents know peaches like Janice Kelley, wife of Chilton County Farmers Federation President Wendell Kelley. Each summer, she serves samples to judges in the Peach Cook-Off, part of the famous Chilton County Peach Festival. “When my husband was growing up and his family grew peaches, they went all over the state to sell them,” Janice said. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

“This county has just always been known as the peach county. Summer is filled with peach events around here. My granddaughters have been in some of the Peach Pageants, and I love helping with the Peach CookOff.” But do Chilton County residents ever get tired of eating peaches? For the Kelleys, the answer is “no.” “In our family — my daughter and her family all live close by — we keep peaches at our house all summer,” Janice said. “We are always running to the market to get another basket of peaches. We eat them fresh, cut them up and have them with ice cream or make our own homemade peach ice cream. And of course, we love peach cobbler.” But peaches aren’t just for desserts. They’re a perfect pairing with pork, and summer sipping has never been sweeter than with peach punch. 28

Heat oven to 350 F with rack in middle. Grease sides and the bottom of pan with butter or cooking spray. Line bottom of a 9-by-3-inch springform pan (or 9-inch round cake pan) with parchment paper. Grease parchment paper, too. Sift flour, baking powder and baking soda together in medium bowl. In separate bowl, beat butter, sugar and eggs until light in color and fluffy, 2-3 minutes on high speed. Add vanilla and Greek yogurt; continue beating until creamy and light in color, about 1 minute more. Keeping mixer speed low, mix in flour mixture until combined. Do not overmix. Transfer cake batter to springform pan. Top with sliced peaches and scatter blueberries evenly on top in spaces between peach slices. Sprinkle fruit with 1 teaspoon sugar. Bake until cake is golden and tester comes out clean in center, about 1 hour, depending on oven. When cake is done, let cool (in the baking pan) on wire rack. After cake cools for about 40 minutes, release it from springform pan. Use a spatula to transfer cake (with parchment paper attached to its bottom) onto a cake plate. If using a 9-inch round cake pan, cook in pan for about 40 minutes or more (up to 1 hour, depending on oven), then invert onto plate. J u ly 2 0 1 7

NO BAKE PEACH TART Courtesy of Janice Kelley Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 20 minutes (20 minutes active)

GRILLED PORK CHOPS WITH SPICY BALSAMIC GRILLED PEACHES From FoodieCrush.com Start-to-finish: 4 hours, 30 minutes (30 minutes active) 2 thick cut, bone-in pork chops 2 cups apple cider 2 cups water 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/3 cup kosher salt 2 sprigs rosemary 2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed 1 teaspoon black peppercorns Olive oil Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste Grilled Peach Salsa Ingredients 2 peaches, pitted and halved 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 3 teaspoons granulated sugar, divided 1/2 cup red onion, slivered 3 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar 1 1/2 teaspoons Vietnamese chili garlic sauce Kosher salt Fresh basil leaves

Rinse pork chops, pat dry. Place in freezer bag. In a small saucepan, bring apple cider, water, sugar and kosher salt to boil. Stir until sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat; add a few ice cubes to cool brine. Allow to cool completely; add brine to freezer bags with pork chops. Add rosemary, garlic and black peppercorns. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or up to overnight. Remove pork chops from brine, and discard brine. Pat pork dry with a paper towel; lightly brush with olive oil and season J u ly 2 0 1 7

with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat one side of grill to high and one side to low. Brown chops on high for about 5 minutes or until grill marks develop; turn to the other side and cook another 5 minutes. Turn chops over and move to low-heat grill area. Cook another 10-12 minutes or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 155 F in thickest part of chop. Transfer to platter; tent with aluminum foil about 5 minutes or until chops reach 160 F. While pork chops cook on low temperature side of grill, lightly coat fleshy side of peaches with 1 tablespoon olive oil; sprinkle peaches with 2 teaspoons sugar. Grill peaches flesh side down on high temperature grill area about 4-5 minutes on each side. Transfer to cutting board and cut into slices. Mix red onions with remaining olive oil and sugar along with white balsamic vinegar, chili garlic sauce, 1 teaspoon sugar and pinch of kosher salt. Add sliced peaches to red onion mixture; gently mix. Top pork chops with the grilled salsa; garnish with torn basil leaves.

8 ounces mascarpone cheese 8 ounces cream cheese 3/4 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Zest of one lemon, finely grated 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream 1 pre-made graham cracker pie shell 6 peaches, pitted, peeled and sliced 1/4 cup peach preserves or orange marmalade

Blend mascarpone, cream cheese and confectionerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sugar until smooth and creamy. Add lemon zest and vanilla extract. Mix well. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks appear. Fold into mascarpone mixture. Spread mixture into pie crust. Top with peach slices. In a small saucepan or microwave, heat peach preserves. Brush peaches with liquefied peach preserves for a nice glaze to dessert. Refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight before serving. EASY PEACH COBBLER Courtesy of Janice Kelley Start-to-finish: 30 minutes 1 1/2 cup peaches, peeled and sliced 1 1/2 cup sugar, divided 1 cup self-rising flour 1 cup milk 1 stick butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Heat oven to 325 F. Place peaches in an 8-by-8-inch casserole dish. Toss 1/4 to 1/2 cup of sugar with peaches. Mix 1 cup sugar and self-rising flour in a bowl and set aside. In a medium saucepan, heat milk and butter on low heat. When butter is melted, remove from heat and mix in sugar and flour mixture. Add vanilla flavoring. Pour mixture over peaches and bake 20 minutes or until firm. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

We Believe in a Job Well Done

Andy Wendland

Autaugaville, Alabama

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Everyone is welcome! ÂŠ 2017 by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. www.aces.edu ACES-2432