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In This Issue A Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation AUGUST 2012
A Fresh Approach Holtville High School students are supplementing traditional textbook studies with down-to-earth hard work in a new school garden. • 16
Endeavor Of Love Four new greenhouses at Rainbow Omega are helping disabled adults have a safe place to do meaningful work. • 5
ON THE COVER Holtville High School juniors Chandler Morgan, left, and Tyler Blankenship pick beans as part of their summer job with Holtville’s “Farm Fresh to You” communitysupported agriculture garden. Photo by Melissa Martin
AUGUST 2012
Ag In The Classroom Teachers learned some valuable lessons at the annual Alabama Agriculture in the Classroom Summer Institute. • 6
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VOLUME 37, NUMBER 8
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redictions of higher food prices organizations by placing additional garnered media attention around restrictions on how food is produced. the world last month, but lost in Unlike regulations based on the headlines was an implicit warnscientific research, this new wave ing of what could happen if activists of restrictions has its foundation in are allowed to dictate agricultural focus groups and social media compolicy. ments. These rules target everything In a joint report, the Organizafrom dust and methane to animal tion for Economic Co-operation care methods and improved crop and Development (OECD) and the varieties. United Nation’s Food and AgriculTo see how this trend can affect tural Organization (FAO) said world food prices, we need only look to food prices are likely to rise over the Europe, where a ban on caged laying next decade as growth in agricultural hens in January led to egg shortages production slows and demand rises. and more than a 60-percent increase While food costs are expected to in prices. remain relatively flat when Sadly, these restrictions are adjusted for inflation, the coming when farmers need to report said average prices ramp up production to feed a would be 10-to-30 percent growing world. According to higher than the previous the FAO report, agricultural decade. It said population production needs to increase growth and an increasby 60 percent over the next ing appetite for red meats, 40 years to meet the rising poultry and dairy products demand for food. Jerry Newby in developing countries will So, what is the answer? increase demand, while growth in The report suggested increased agricultural production is expected to production and lower food costs slow from 2 percent per year over the could be achieved through more effipast several decades to 1.7 percent cient use of irrigation; improved ferannually. tilizers and crop protection products; Although increased use of biofuinvesting in agricultural research; els, labor shortages and unpredictable and introducing policies that encourweather conditions will affect proage these changes. duction, the report noted that higher At the Alabama Farmers Federainput costs, increasing resource contion, we already are pursuing these straints and growing environmental solutions. The Agricultural Water restrictions will hamper the ability Incentives Program and Alabama’s of farmers to respond to increased new tax incentive for irrigation show demand. Development, as well as promise in helping our state better government agencies taking land out utilize its abundant water resources. of production because of environWe continue to support agricultural mental rules and threatened species, research at our state’s land grant will mean farmers have fewer acres university through producer-funded on which to produce food and fiber. checkoff programs. And, we work In other words, regulations and with lawmakers and regulators at the profitability will be our biggest state and national levels to develop obstacles with feeding America and a science-based policies that will help growing world. farmers be more successful. For Alabama farmers, this is not In addition to these efforts, the news. Although agricultural advance- Federation, along with the Ameriments have helped more than double can Farm Bureau Federation, U.S. yields since 1950, farmers continue Farmer and Ranchers Alliance and to see potential profits shrink due other organizations, is working to to skyrocketing costs for fuel, feed, strengthen public trust in our food fertilizer, seed and other inputs. production system so farmers can Meanwhile, food manufacturers, law- focus on feeding our families rather makers and government agencies are than defending their way of life. n succumbing to pressure from activist
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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 Jerry Newby, President, Athens Hal Lee, Vice President/North, Hartselle Dean Wysner, Vice President/Central, Woodland Ricky Wiggins, Vice President/Southeast, Andalusia Jake Harper, Vice President/Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn, Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Joe Dickerson, Lexington Ted Grantland, Somerville Waymon Buttram, Geraldine Darrel Haynes, Cullman John E. Walker III, Berry Dell Hill, Alpine Richard Edgar, Deatsville Dickie Odom, Boligee Garry Henry, Hope Hull Carl Sanders, Brundidge David Bitto, Elberta S. Steve Dunn, Samson Rita Garrett, Centre John Bitto, Elberta 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 member benefits of the Alabama Farmers Federation, visit the Web site www.AlfaFarmers.org. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Alabama, and additional mailing offices. Printed in the U.S.A. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001. ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Wendy McFarland, McFarland AdVantage, 133 Bridlewood Lane, Hope Hull, AL 36043. Phone: (334) 652-9080. Email: mcfarlandadvantage@gmail.com. Editorial inquiries should be directed to the editor at (334) 613-4410. ADVERTISING DISCLAIMER: Advertise ments contained in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement by the magazine or the Alabama Farmers Federation. EDITORIAL MATTER from sources outside of the Alabama Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for the information and interest of our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Alabama Farmers Federation policies. Publication of material does not necessarily imply its endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation. ADDRESS editorial, advertising and change of address correspondence to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 361910001. www.AlfaFarmers.org A member of American Farm Bureau Federation AUGUST 2012
Alfa Joins Lt. Gov. Ivey In Dedicating Facilities At Rainbow Omega By Jeff Helms
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isabled adults have a safe place to do meaningful work thanks to a new vocational center and greenhouses dedicated June 8 at Rainbow Omega in Eastaboga. The four new greenhouses were made possible, in part, by a donation from the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance. The organization’s president, Jerry Newby, joined Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey for an open house at the facilities. “There’s not many things you see in life that are as pure as love. This endeavor is love,” said Newby of the Rainbow Omega ministry. “We at Alfa and the Alabama Farmers Federation are blessed to be a part of this, and we are blessed that God has given us the resources to do this.” Rainbow Omega is a faith-based, residential and vocational community for adults with developmental disabilities. The campus is home to 79 residents and includes eight family-style group homes and a state-ofthe-art medical facility for residents needing individualized care. Inspired by their son, Chris, who is now a resident at Rainbow Omega, Stentson and Dianne Carpenter founded the non-profit organization in 1991 and opened the first two homes in 1995. Stentson, who serves as CEO of Rainbow Omega, said dedication of the 25,000-square-foot Chris Carpenter Work Center is a dream come true. “The Bible says we were all created from a handful of dirt, and then God put a few dreams in our pockets,” Carpenter said. “We never want to underestimate the power of a dream. Today we are here to celebrate that dream coming true for Rainbow Omega.” The $3 million work center was made possible through private donations as well as grants from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, the Appalachian Regional Commission, the Economic Development Adminis-
AUGUST 2012
From left, Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey, Rainbow Omega CEO Stentson Carpenter, Alfa and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jerry Newby and Federation Board Member and Talladega County Farmers Federation President Dell Hill examine plants growing in one of four new greenhouses built with the help of a donation from Alfa.
tration, the Calhoun County Community Foundation and the Arc of North Talladega County. Alfa gave $60,000 over two years for construction of the greenhouses, with additional funding coming from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Ivey was introduced to the work at Rainbow Omega by her chief of staff, Steve Pelham, who assisted the organization with other construction projects while previously serving as state director of USDA Rural Development. The lieutenant governor praised the Rainbow Omega board of directors and staff for their compassion and stewardship. “Your commitment, vision and dedication...has built a foundation of hope and a solid foundation for the future that’s impacted thousands of lives to date, and more to come,” Ivey said. During the open house, Ivey presented Chris Carpenter a proclamation naming him an honorary lieutenant governor. The Carpenter Work Center includes comfortable space where residents earn a paycheck while performing work for private compa5
nies. The new building also boasts a cafeteria capable of seating all the residents for lunch. The building also includes office space, a training facility for staff and an exercise room for the residents. Carpenter said an exercise plan would be tailored for each resident. Meanwhile, the four new greenhouses supported by Alfa will not only provide work opportunities for the residents, but they also will provide a sustainable source of revenue for Rainbow Omega. With the additional space, the charity now has nine greenhouses. The residents help grow a variety of annuals and perennials in the spring and mums in the fall, but their signature crop is poinsettias. “Our residential program doesn’t receive any money from the state or the federal government to pay for our residents to live here,” Carpenter said. “So the work center and the greenhouses all contribute. Hopefully, someday, we will be selfsupporting here as we work toward that goal.” For more information about Rainbow Omega, visit rainbowomega.org. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Teachers Get A Hoot Out Of Ag Education At Ag In The Classroom Summer Institute By Mary Johnson
At the Lazenby farms, educators walked through corn and cotton fields and enjoyed lunch while learning what it takes to run an agritourism business. Another tour stop at the Randle Farms in Auburn exposed teachers to a Community Supported Agriculture Program (CSA). The Randles supply seasonal fruits and vegetables to patrons each week for a yearly fee. Attendees walked the grounds, munching fresh-picked blueberries and carrots as sheep grazed nearby. The day rounded out with visits to the Southeastern Raptor Center, Auburn University’s Horticulture Department and the Fisheries Department at Auburn University’s Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station. Walter Jackson Elementary School librarian and Auburn alum Todd Jackson said the tours introduced him to parts of the university he had never seen before. “When I think about agriculture, I don’t think about farming fish,” Jackson said. “I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the fisheries and learning how they feed, sell and market fish. When we were at the greenhouses, I was fascinated with the hydroponic grow
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t the Alabama Ag in the Classroom Summer Institute, teachers from across the state put away their rulers and textbooks and took to the fields, learning hands-on education techniques for incorporating agricultural lessons into their classrooms. Hosted June 12-14 at the Grand National Marriott in Opelika, participants spent an entire day visiting local agriculture centers and farms, including the Lazenby Farm in Auburn. “We roll out the red carpet for this group because teachers mean so much to us,” said farmer Mitch Lazenby. “(This event) allows teachers to actually see farmers who are very passionate about what they do and are willing to put everything they’ve got into it: sweat, blood, money, and sometimes sacrificing quality time with their families. School kids will benefit from knowing where their food comes from and learning to value food grown safely and abundantly in our country.” w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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Participants learn about “Spirit,” a bald eagle at the Southeastern Raptor Rehabilitation Center.
Farmer Mitch Lazenby shows teachers Rachel Wright from Helen Keller School, left, and Rhonda Kirkpatrick of Piedmont Elementary School the corn crop at Lazenby Farms.
An explosion of butter creates a mess of laughter during one of the teacher workshops.
Teachers view hydroponic plants at Auburn’s horticulture greenhouses.
boxes. I think kids will get a kick out of growing something just from water.” Attendees also participated in seminars and craftmaking activities which can be incorporated into their classrooms. The institute provided each teacher with farming books, lesson plans, DVDs and other educational resources. Faucett-Vestavia Elementary School kindergarten teacher Jacqueline Hope said she had a number of “whoa” moments during the institute, like when she watched a video of a chick hatching. “That was amazing to me,” Hope said. “I know if it’s amazing to me, it’s amazing to my kids. (The institute) has been so enlightening, and it is something authentic that I never would have gotten by sitting in the classroom.” The AITC program receives the majority of its funding from the Farming Feeds Alabama license plates. For more information about the program, visit AlabamaAITC.org. n AUGUST 2012
June Jackson from Hokes Bluff Middle School enjoys a slice of watermelon, served by Alabama Watermelon Queen Amber Nolin. 7
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House Agriculture Committee Gives Favorable Report Of 2012 Farm Bill By Melissa Martin
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etails of the 2012 farm bill continue to slowly emerge, but farmers across the country are eager for an official version to materialize soon. Members of the House Agriculture Committee met and gave a favorable report of its version of the farm bill July 11. Known as the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management (FARRM) Act, the bill was approved by the Committee by a vote of 35-11. The FARRM Act now moves to the House. Whether a bill will be finalized before the 2008 farm bill expires Sept. 30 remains to be seen, but congressmen are optimistic. U.S. House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Collin C. Peterson, D-Minn., emphasized the importance of the House passing the legislation before the late summer recess. “Our nation’s farmers and ranchers need the certainty of a new five-year farm bill, and they need it before the current farm bill ends,” said Peterson, who drafted the FARRM Act alongside Rep. Frank Lucas, R-Okla. “There will be challenges ahead. But, if the House leadership gets this right and brings this bill to the floor, we will ultimately finish the bill in September.” Lucas echoed Peterson’s remarks, adding that the committee’s report could foreshadow the House reaction. “This marks an important step forward in the development of the next farm bill,” said Lucas. According to Alabama Farmers Federation National Legislative Programs Director Mitt Walker, there is still no commitment by House leadership to bring the bill to the floor, but there is still a chance of seeing it passed this year. “We could see a compromised version of the Senate and House bills attached to another piece of legislation later in the year,” he said. “The savings created by the
AUGUST 2012
Covington County Farmers Federation Vice President Richard Jones, right, talks to U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, R-Ala., during a visit to Washington earlier this year. Roby, who represents Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District, serves on the House Agriculture Committee.
farm bill could be used to offset the cost of other legislation.” After reviewing the FARRM Act, Walker said key components of the House bill differ from the version passed in the Senate. “As expected, a vastly different bill was approved by the House Agriculture Committee July 11,” said Walker. “The main differences resulting after the nearly 14-hour mark up involved the Commodity Title, which remained essentially intact as the majority of the amendments impacting the section of the bill were defeated. There were also deeper cuts to the nutrition title.” Defeated amendments would have modified the current sugar program and repealed the market stabilization component of the newly proposed dairy program, noted Walker. Both amendments were offered by Rep. Bob Goodlatte, R-Va;, and Rep. David Scott, D-Ga., joined Goodlatte in cosponsoring the dairy amendment. “The Alabama Farmers Federation heard from our dairymen and actively opposed the GoodlatteScott Amendment,” Walker said. “We were pleased to see both Rep. Terri Sewell and Rep. Martha Roby 9
vote against the measure.” Another amendment by Rep. Vicky Hartzler, R-Mo., would have repealed the catfish inspection program authorized in the 2008 farm bill. According to Walker, the 20-25 vote to defeat this amendment was key because the program was repealed in the Senate bill by an amendment sponsored by Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz. Keeping the program in the House bill keeps the program alive for now. The House bill is estimated to cut the deficit by $35 billion and provides regulatory relief to mitigate burdens farmers, ranchers and rural communities face. Meanwhile, the Senate’s version of the 2012 farm bill, which passed June 21, is estimated to cut the national deficit by almost $24 billion over the next 10 years. It also looks to place increased emphasis on individual crop insurance, while the FARRM Act offers producers a choice between revenue loss coverage and price loss coverage. Both the House and Senate agree on eliminating direct payments. The Federation’s Farm Bill Committee continues to monitor the status of the farm bill. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Alabama Farmers Federation 2012 Cajun Beef Tour Oct. 28-Nov. 3
Contact: Nate Jaeger • Phone: (334) 613-4221 email: NJaeger@AlfaFarmers.org Six-day bus tour leaves Montgomery and includes visits to several types of beef cattle farms in Louisiana, plus a stop at the Louisiana State Fair, rodeo and concert. Seating is limited; register early.
®
Alabama Farmers Federation AlfaFarmers.org
John Dorrill
Forestry Chairman Pike County farmer John Dorrill says being a farmer is a blessing without measure. “Farmers are not only rewarded economically, but gain satisfaction knowing they help preserve our freedoms,” he said. Dorrill, 83, is chairman of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s State Forestry Committee and president of the Pike County Farmers Federation. He is supervisor of the Pike County Soil and Water Conservation Board and is a member of U.S. Rep. Martha Roby’s Agriculture Advisory Committee. He retired from the Alabama Farmers Federation in 1998 after more than 40 years of service, 20 of those as executive director. He and his wife, Carol, along with sons John III and Lee, have a 900-acre farm that includes 800 acres of timber, 100 acres of pasture land and three fish ponds. They also have a barn that’s been converted for agricultural, forestry and conservation education meetings. The Dorrills have been married 45 years and are members of First Baptist Church in Troy. Together, they have three children, Rachel, John III (Sonjua) and Lee (Lynn), and six grandchildren.
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lfa Insurance® customers can now pay bills, file claims and access policy information from the convenience of their iPhone and Android smartphones with the latest version of the Alfa2Go app. “This version of Alfa2Go demonstrates our commitment to providing our valued customers with more convenient ways than ever to interact with Alfa,” said Vice President of Corporate Internet and E-Business Walter Overby. “Customers can take advantage of the personal service they expect from us, now with the additional option of accessing important services anytime, anywhere from their smartphones.” In addition to paying bills and filing claims, customers who register their AUGUST 2012
policies with MyAlfa can access policy information or view their auto insurance identification cards through a secure connection on their handheld devices. “The ability to view auto identification cards is especially valuable with the recent decision by the State of Alabama to accept digital images as proof of insurance,” Overby said. “Alabama was one of the first states in the country to accept electronic identification cards for law enforcement, and we believe other states will follow suit.” In addition to these convenient new features, Alfa2Go offers a number of other useful tools. Customers can easily set up vehicle maintenance reminders that prompt them to change the oil, rotate tires, renew licenses tags or renew their driver’s license. A mapping feature, powered 11
by Google Maps, also helps customers locate Alfa offices, tow trucks, body shops and gas stations. Plus, customers who are members of the Alabama Farmers Federation can access money-saving member benefits. Alfa2Go is just one way Alfa is demonstrating its commitment to offer customers convenient ways to access its services. Along with Alfa’s helpful sales team, website and call center, Alfa2Go provides service when and where customers want to do business. Alfa2Go is a free download from the Apple App Store or Android Market. Learn more about Alfa2Go at www.alfains.com/alfa2go. Alfa and its affiliates provide insurance and other financial services in 11 states. For more information, visit AlfaInsurance.com. n
SCAN THIS CODE FOR MORE INFO
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Alabama Students Learn Valuable Lessons At Youth Leadership Conference By Melissa Martin
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early 140 high school students strengthened their leadership skills during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s annual Youth Leadership Conference at the 4-H Center in Columbiana June 22-24. The conference seeks to develop the students as leaders in their chosen careers while helping them better understand Alabama agriculture. During the three-day event, 136 high school sophomores, juniors and seniors from 25 counties around the state participated in character-building activities and interactive workshops. Federation Young Farmers Division Director Brandon Moore said the annual conference is a great way to bring the next generation of Alabama’s leaders together and teach them about the role of agriculture in the state and nation. “Our focus is to teach them to recognize the responsibilities they have to develop into effective leaders so they can be prepared to give back to their communities, schools and churches,” said Moore, who organizes the annual conference. According to Moore, the role of the conference is crucial to developw w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
ing strong leaders, not only for the Federation, but for other industry and trade organizations around the globe. “The Youth Leadership Conference teaches delegates that regardless of which career path they choose, there are industry organizations that depend on members who have developed skills they need to get involved and make a difference,” said Moore. State Young Farmers Committee member Scott Poague, who served as a chaperon during the conference, echoed Moore’s remarks, adding that the event is beneficial in establishing a voice for farmers. “In developing future leaders for this organization, it’s very important for counties to send young people to this conference. I think they take away a lot from the event,” said Poague. “It exposes them to different areas of agriculture they might not otherwise think about, while encouraging them to become service-minded leaders in whatever field they choose.” Poague also emphasized how important it is to educate high school students about agriculture “These students are going to be the future leaders of our state and this organization,” he said. “They 12
Student participants discuss the weekend agenda with chaperons during the opening session of the Youth Leadership Conference at the 4-H Center in Columbiana Friday, June 22. An annual event, the conference strengthens students’ leadership skills and educates them on agricultural issues. From left are State Young Farmers Committee Vice Chairman Clint McElmoyl of DeKalb County; Heather Waterhouse, Marshall County; Jovita Perez, Marshall County; Haley Gothard, Bibb County; Keyannah Mays, Bibb County; State Young Farmers Committee member Scott Poague of Elmore County; and Ryan Wood, Coffee County.
are going to be voting age soon, and they need to be educated about agriculture in order to make wise decisions regarding the food they eat and their views toward farming.” While organizers and conference chaperons recognize the importance of the event, students enjoy the amenities of the 4-H Center and the ability to share their interests with peers from across the state. Jovita Perez, a student from Asbury High School in Marshall County, said her favorite part of the conference was meeting students from across the state who share similar interests. “We’re all here to learn,” said Perez. “And if we can have fun together and make new friends in the process, what could be better?” For more information about the program, visit AlfaYoungFarmers.org. n AUGUST 2012
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa Street 7 p.m. Doors Open 8 p.m. Dwight Yoakam Show Advance ticket sales are available to Alabama Farmers Federation members from July 1 - Sept. 6 by calling the MPAC Box Office, (334) 481-5100, Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ticket Prices: $95, $65, $50, $45, $35 (plus service charge) After Sept. 6, tickets will be available online to the public at TicketMaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000 from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily. Brought to you by
Bill Mullins
Bee & Honey Chairman When Bill Mullins isn’t buzzing around his Madison County beekeeping operation, he’s likely to be found on his 92-acre farm in Meridianville harvesting cotton, pecans, blueberries and muscadines. Mullins, 76, has served as chairman of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s State Bee & Honey Committee for 11 of the past 13 years. While he admits he enjoys farm life away from the hives, Mullins said he’s proud of the accomplishments he’s made over the past 37 years as a beekeeper. “Of all the producers in the state, I have the only gravity flow honey house in Alabama,” said Mullins, an innovative apiarist who learned the craft from his grandfather. Mullins and his wife, Sue, have been married 52 years. They have three children, Susan, Ted and Todd; six grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren. Mullins serves as a Deacon at Flint River Baptist Church.
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Growing Up Holtville Students Find Success With Community Garden By Melissa Martin
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ost students have to visualize the information they’re taught in school, never experiencing first-hand the glories of the earth or the great outdoors. But for some Elmore County students, the great outdoors is just another classroom. Holtville High School FFA students – led by agriscience teacher Scott Poague – supplemented traditional textbook studies this year with the inaugural “Farm Fresh to You” program. A community-supported agricultural (CSA) garden located on Holtville’s campus, “Farm Fresh” provides eight customers with weekly deliveries of fresh summer produce for a seasonal fee of $100. Though Poague laid the groundwork for the garden, he says it’s the students who deserve credit for its success. “I help with the harvest, make sure things run smoothly and deal with the customers, but the students are really the backbone of this project,” said Poague, who was inspired to start the CSA garden after visiting Randle Farms last year. At their Lee County farm, the Randles offer shares of meats and vegetables throughout the year for seasonal
From left, Holtville High School juniors Chandler Morgan, Devin Goodwin and Tyler Blankenship show they’re not afraid to get their hands dirty at the campus garden.
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fees. Recognizing a good idea when he sees one, Poague tweaked the idea to fit his school’s landscape. “After seeing the program in action at the Randles, I knew this would be a great fundraiser-type opportunity for our students,” he explained. “We received a grant through the Mid-State Resource Conservation and Development Council to purchase equipment last fall, prepped the land and planted this spring. It has done very well, and we’re proud to be providing a service – vegetables, in this case – to the community.” While the program has been a financial success for Holtville’s FFA chapter, the program’s underlying benefits exceed fiscal values. Members of the Slapout, Holtville and Wetumpka communities have applauded the school’s program, emphasizing how nice it is that students are involved in farming. Community members also enjoy knowing several area residents are eating locally grown food. “And for horticulture students, it’s been a great way to get them out of the classroom so they can see first-hand what we’ve talked about in class,” added Poague. “It’s good for them to get their hands in the dirt.” In addition to experience, the garden provides a few students with a summer job. Most teenagers would rather sleep in and relax in the air conditioning during the sweltering summer months, but a handful of Poague’s students come to the garden weekday mornings, pick what’s ready and earn a little money in the process. “I really like having something I can do outside,” said Chandler Morgan, a junior at Holtville. “It’s not always easy work, but I enjoy it. I can get here early, pick beans or pull weeds, and still have plenty of time left in the day to do what I want.” Tyler Blankenship, also a junior, echoed Morgan’s remarks, adding that the summer heat isn’t much of a deterrent for him. “Working this garden is much better than being in the classroom,” said Blankenship, as he filled his five-gallon bucket with beans. “I grew up around hay and cattle, but I like being in the garden more.” Based on the program’s popularity, Poague said he expects to open the garden to more customers in the future. Plans to expand the garden’s acreage and fare are also in the works. “Some farmers may plant two or three things – sweet corn, tomatoes, peaches – but to do this, we had to plant different things over a period of time to keep things coming up all summer,” Poague said. “We limited the number of customers this year because we didn’t want to cut things too close, but I see us increasing that number next year.” During its first season, Holtville’s “Farm Fresh” garden offered customers sweet corn, field corn, peas, peppers, tomatoes, onions, squash, okra, beans and cucumbers. Interested in starting a CSA garden but not sure where to start? Email Poague at samuel.poague@elmore.k12.al.us for more information. n Holtville agriscience teacher Scott Poague shows off a stack of field corn picked at the school’s campus garden. AUGUST 2012
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Members Now Save At Office Depot®
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nhancements to the Alabama Farmers Federation member benefits program continue with the latest savings program now available from Office Depot®. Through this new member benefit, members can save up to 80 percent on Office Depot’s® Best Value List along with reduced prices on thousands of other items by printing an Alabama Farmers Federation discount card for use in any local Office Depot® store. Members can also have this card laminated for free at their local Office Depot® and present it to the cashier when checking out to receive their discount. Members may use the card as often they like. Online ordering is easy at alfafarmers.org/officedepot, where members will receive the same discounts. Orders are delivered next
day with no shipping charges when spending more than $50. “This is a great program for our members to help save on items they might use in their homes, businesses or educational activities,” said Marc Pearson, director of membership. “We are continuing to build a world class member benefits program that strengthens the relationship with our current membership while aiming to attract new members. We’re excited about the opportunities this Office Depot® discount program brings for our members.” Members can save on ink, paper,
office supplies, toner, stamps/daters, pens, pads, furniture and much more. More than 3,000 commonly used items are priced at 15 percent off retail pricing, along with 93,000 items discounted below retail pricing. To learn more about the new program, visit alfafarmers.org/officedepot. n
In The Market For A Car Or Truck?
New member benefit makes car buying easier than ever
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labama Farmers Federation members have a free tool that helps save time and money, plus provides information they need to make a smart car-buying decision. The best part? The $500 GM incentive for eligible members is seamlessly integrated into the process for additional savings. How does it work? Step 1: Research new and used vehicles at www.fbverify.com/ drive Members can easily select makes, models and options, plus compare different vehicles, learn about available incentives, check crash safety ratings, read reviews, view pictures and even check estimated trade-in values. Plus, with used cars, members see guaranteed prices and are able to sort by the features that matter most. Step 2: Learn what others actually paid for their vehicle Not sure if it’s a good deal? The w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
new program gives members access to TrueCar price reports. Available with national, regional and local data, these reports show what others have paid for the car. Members see the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), the market average, the factory invoice and more.
Step 3: Get the price and print a certificate Once a vehicle is selected, members locate a Program Certified Dealer and submit their information to the dealers of their choice. Minimum Guaranteed Savings and Estimated Member Pricing* are shown before talking to a dealer. The certificate will list a dedicated contact for questions or to arrange a test drive. Finally, take the certificate to the Program Certified Dealer to ensure a hassle-free carbuying experience. No cost. No obligation. No hassle. Car and truck buying has never been easier! Visit www.fbverify. com/drive to learn more about this great member benefit. n ____________________________________ * Estimated Price and Savings currently not available in AR, CO, KS, LA, MD, NE, OK, OR, TX, VA and WA. In these states a “Target Price” is presented, which is not an advertised price, but an example of what you can reasonably expect to pay.
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AUGUST 2012
Program Seeks To Honor Historic Alabama Farms
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he Department of Agriculture and Indusfor a long time. Out of this original meeting tries is accepting applications for the 2012 the idea for the Century and Heritage Farm proCentury and Heritage Farm program. This gram was born. It was decided that recognition program is designed to recognize and honor should be given to these farms because of their those farms that have been in operation as a significant role in Alabama’s history. family farm over a long period of time and have The population in rural Alabama at that played a significant role in Alabama history. time was rapidly changing as people moved to A Century Farm is one that has been in urban areas. The number of family farms was the same family diminishing rapidly as it still is today. It was continuously for decided that farms at least 100 years with more and currently has than 100 some agricultural years of ownactivities on the ership should farm. The farm be awarded must include at a certificate least 40 acres to recognize of land and be significant owned by the achievement. applicant or The Alanominee. bama DepartA Heriment of tage Farm is Agriculture one that has and Industries been operated administers continuously the program. as a family The first cerLime Ridge Farm, farm for at least tificates of operated by Sam Givhan of Dallas County, 100 years. The recognition were received the Century and Heritage Farm farm must possess designation in 2011. presented at an Alabama interesting and Farm Bureau meeting in important historical and agricultural aspects, Birmingham in December 1977. To date, more including one or more structures at least 40 than 500 farms have been recognized in Alayears old. The farm must be at least 40 acres of bama. land owned and operated by the applicant, who Applicants must complete an Ownership must reside in Alabama. Registration Form supplied by the Alabama The application deadline for the 2012 CenDepartment of Agriculture and Industries. For tury and Heritage Farm program is Aug. 31. more information, contact Amy Belcher at (334) The Century and Heritage Farm program 240-7126 or e-mail amy.belcher@agi.alabama. began in 1976 when the director of the Alabama gov. Historical Commission and a representative A list of farms that previously received a from the Alabama Department of Agriculture Century and Heritage Farm designation is availand Industries met to discuss ways to recognize able at www.agi.alabama.gov/chfarmsl. n small family farms that had been in operation
AUGUST 2012
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Commission Continues Work On Major Revision Of State Constitution By Mary Johnson
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he Alabama Constitutional Revision Commission will resume work on article-by-article revisions of the state constitution when it reconvenes Aug. 22. The commission, which held its last meeting June 20, is reviewing three articles this year, one of which addresses the issue of home rule. Home rule, which redistributes certain governmental powers from the state legislature to local control, is favored by groups that support local governments controlling taxation and zoning issues. In 2005, state legislation granted limited home rule to county governments, allowing greater control over issues of noise, sewage, litter, over-grown weeds, junk yards and animals outside of cities. Powers involving taxation and zoning remain with the state legislature. The Alabama Farmers Federation policy opposes any attempt to allow the state to give up its responsibilities and powers to county or local units of government. Permitting home rule could effectively result in 67 counties operating as individual entities with various laws. Home Rule is included in Article IV of the Constitution. The revision commission will also address articles on distribution of powers and representation. The commission accepted the suggestion of former Alabama Law Institute Secretary Bob McCurley that Article IV be broken into three sections with subcommittees assigned to each. The local government section, which includes home rule, will be reviewed in a subcommittee chaired by Greg Butrus, a partner in the Balch & Bingham
AUGUST 2012
Above: Commission Vice Chair Rep. Paul DeMarco, R-Homewood, right, leads the June meeting of the Alabama Constitutional Revision Commission. Left: Samford University law professor and Alabama Law Institute member Howard Walthall provides recommendations for revisions to Alabama’s constitution.
law firm. The ethics subcommittee will be chaired by Wetumpka Tea Party President Becky Gerritson. Matt Lembke, a partner in the Bradley, Arant, Boult, and Cummings law firm, will chair the legislative department subcommittee. During the meeting, the commission discussed ways to educate the public about amendments to the banking and corporations sections of the state constitution, which passed the legislature this session. The public will vote on the 21
changes, known as Amendments 9 and 10 on the ballot, in the Nov. 6 general election. The commission is chaired by former Gov. Albert Brewer, who was appointed by Gov. Robert Bentley, and Rep. Paul DeMarco, R-Homewood, an ex-officio member, serves as vice chair. Other members include Bentley and his remaining appointees Vicki Drummond and Becky Gerritson; Sen. President Pro Tem Del Marsh, R-Anniston, and his appointees Matthew Lembke, Carolyn McKinstry and Jim Pratt; House Speaker Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn, and his appointees Rep. Patricia Todd, D-Birmingham, John Anzalone and Greg Butrus; and ex-officio members Sen. Ben Brooks, R-Mobile, Sen. Cam Ward, R-Alabaster, Sen. Bob Taylor, R-Prattville and Rep. Randy Davis, R-Daphne. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
sh. .
for U.S. catfish Celebrate National Catfish Month - Buy American goes into a grain-fed catfish, and I know the quality of water our fish are raised in. At the end of the day, I can hang my hat knowing that I’m raising the best fish I can.” Catfish is a good source of protein and contains omega-3. But in addition to being part of a healthy diet, it also an important part of Alabama’s economy. Currently, the state boasts 200 catfish farms and ranks second in the nation in catfish production, with only Mississippi producing more. However, catfish production in the United States has declined in recent years. Increased foreign competition and different standards for imported catfish are both factors making it difficult for U.S. catfish farmers to continue on. According to research from Auburn University, Alabama’s catfish farming has declined 4 percent since last year. The same research shows a decrease in national catfish production of almost 50 percent in the past 10 years. One way to support Alabama’s catfish farmers is to buy only domestic catfish. U.S. catfish farmers fulfill strict government standards and follow stringent guidelines to provide healthy, nutrient-rich products. When ordering at a restaurant or purchasing from a local grocer, be sure to purchase U.S. farm-raised catfish. While frying is the traditional cooking method, catfish is very versatile. It can be blackened, broiled or grilled. It can even be formed and baked into patties or used in chowders and dips. For creative recipes using catfish, visit USCatfish.com. n
Grilled Citrus Rosemary Catfish
is
efs’ of
w
aked Mediterranean atfish
0
Baked Mediterranean Catfish
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he lazy dog days of summer provide the perfect time to chow down on catfish, as 4 U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish FilletsCatfish August marks National Month. First 1 tablespoon olive oilestablished in the 1980s, National Catfish Month 1 cup zucchini, diced has celebrated delicious meals ½ cup red onion, sliced from the whiskered freshwater fish more than 20 years. 2 garlic for cloves, minced When selecting a scrumptious ½ cup mixed Mediterranean filet to prepare, nothing compares olives, halved to catfish grown and produced right tomatoes, here in thehalved United States. ½ cup grape Alabama’s Catfish Farmer of the 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped Year Kent Houlditch produces 1 tablespoon capers channel catfish in 250 acres of watersalt at his Greene County farm. ½ teaspoon “As a producer, it’s important ¼ teaspoon freshly ground to me to make sure that what black pepper we’re putting on dinner tables is ½ cup crumbled feta cheese, safe to eat and affordable,” Houldoptionalitch garnish said. “I know first-hand what w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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1. Preheat oven to 450º F.
AUGUST 2012
Catfish Ad
Always fresh. Always American.
Harrell Potter
2012 Mississippi Catfish Farmer of the Year
Kent Houlditch
2012 Alabama Catfish Farmer of the Year
When you look for the U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish seal, you’re looking out for your family, and for our American farmers. Their pure, freshwater ponds and strict standards ensure U.S. Catfish is the freshest, healthiest fish available. And you can rely on that perfectly mild flavor year-round. Try the recipe for Broiled Catfish at USCATFISH.COM Sponsored by The Catfish Institute
Bill Troutt
2012 Arkansas Catfish Farmer of the Year
County Annual Meetings
COUNTY
DATE
TIME
LOCATION
ADDRESS
Dale
Monday, August 6
7 p.m.
Dale County Ag Plex
202 Hwy 123 S., Ozark
Madison
Monday, August 6
4 p.m.
Holiday Inn Downtown
401 Williams Ave. SW, Huntsville
Henry
Tuesday, August 7
7 p.m.
Wiregrass Research & Experiment Center
167 E. State Hwy 134, Headland
Jackson
Tuesday, August 7
6:30 p.m.
Federation Building
23625 John T. Reid Pkwy., Scottsboro
Baldwin
Thursday, August 9
7 p.m.
Federation Building
21331 Hwy 59, Robertsdale
Calhoun
Thursday, August 9
6:30 p.m.
Federation Building
1535 Pelham Rd. S, Jacksonville
Barbour
Thursday, August 9
6 p.m.
Abercrombie Fish Camp
335 Eufaula Ave., Clayton
Coosa
Thursday, August 9
7 p.m.
Old Rockford Schoolhouse
County Road 18, Rockford
Greene
Thursday, August 9
6 p.m.
Alfa Office
Eutaw
Cullman
Thursday, August 9
7 p.m.
Federation Building
Main Ave., Cullman
Cherokee
Friday, August 10
6:30 p.m.
Dean Buttram Senior Center
229 Dean Buttram Ave., Centre
Marion
Friday, August 10
6 p.m.
Hamilton Rec Center
Hamilton
Morgan
Friday, August 10
7 p.m.
Hartselle Civic Center
406 Nance Ford Rd. SW, Hartselle
Chambers
Saturday, August 11
6 p.m.
Alfa Office
1006 Ave. A SE, Lafayette
St. Clair
Monday, August 13
7 p.m.
Alfa Office
32775 U.S. Hwy 231, Ashville
Butler
Monday, August 13
6 p.m.
Pioneer Electric Conference Room
Greenville
Etowah
Monday, August 13
6:30 p.m.
Federation Building
125 Broad St., Gadsden
Houston
Tuesday, August 14
6:30 p.m.
Alfa Office
1038 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan
Franklin
Tuesday, August 14
6:30 p.m.
Best Western Hotel
13770 Hwy 43, Russellville
Cleburne
Tuesday, August 14
6:30 p.m.
Community Arts Center
279 Martin Luther King Dr., Heflin
Monroe
Tuesday, August 14
6:30 p.m.
Ag Center
Shelby
Tuesday, August 14
6:30 p.m.
Alfa Office
256 S. Main St., Columbiana
Autauga
Wednesday, August 15
7 p.m.
Autauga County Ag Center
Autaugaville
Covington
Thursday, August 16
7 p.m.
Oakwood Lodge
13725 Brooklyn Rd., Andalusia
Bullock
Thursday, August 16
6:30 p.m.
Greenway Sportsman’s Club
Union Springs
Tuscaloosa
Thursday, August 16
7 p.m.
Bobby Miller Activity Center
300 Bobby Miller Pkwy., Tuscaloosa
Lawrence
Thursday, August 16
6:30 p.m.
Lawrence County Ag Center
13075 ALA-157 Suite 6, Moulton
Talladega
Thursday, August 16
6:30 p.m.
Shocco Springs Baptist Conference Center
1314 Shocco Springs Rd., Talladega
Blount
Thursday, August 16
6:30 p.m.
Frank J. Green Building (BBQ will be served @ 6 p.m.)
415 Fifth Ave. E. Suite A, Oneonta
Limestone
Friday, August 17
6 p.m.
Alabama Veterans Museum
100 Pryor St., Athens
Randolph
Saturday, August 18
5 p.m.
Wedowee Kiwanis Park - Antique Tractor Pavilion
Hwy 431, Wedowee
Choctaw
Monday, August 20
6 p.m.
Federation Building
229 Mulberry Ave., Butler
Lamar
Monday, August 20
6:30 p.m.
Vernon City Auditorium (Old High School)
Vernon
Escambia
Tuesday, August 21
6 p.m.
Ag Center
175 Ag Science Drive, Brewton
Geneva
Tuesday, August 21
7 p.m.
Geneva County Farm Center
2765 Hwy 52, Geneva
Fayette
Tuesday, August 21
6:30 p.m.
Fayette Civic Center
Fayette
Lauderdale
Tuesday, August 21
6:30 p.m.
Underwood Petersville Community Center
840 County Road 7, Florence
Montgomery
Tuesday, August 21
7 p.m.
Alfa Home Office Cafeteria
Montgomery
Clarke
Thursday, August 23
6:30 p.m.
Federation Building
148 South Jackson St., Grove Hill
DeKalb
Thursday, August 23
6:30 p.m.
Alfa Office
346 McCurdy Ave. S, Rainsville
Pickens
Thursday, August 23
6:30 p.m.
Gates Restaurant
Aliceville
Jefferson
Friday, August 24
10 a.m.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
2612 Lane Park Rd., Birmingham
Colbert
Monday, August 27
6:30 p.m.
Northwest Shoals Community College
800 George Wallace Blvd., Muscle Shoals
Washington
Monday, August 27
7 p.m.
Federation Building
54 Court St., Chatom
Chilton
Monday, August 27
7 p.m.
Alfa Office
301 1st St. North, Clanton
Marshall
Tuesday, August 28
7 p.m.
Federation Building
1333 Blount Ave., Guntersville
Tallapoosa
Tuesday, August 28
6:30 p.m.
Federation Building
111 N. Tallassee St., Dadeville
Conecuh
Tuesday, August 28
6 p.m.
David Burt Building
102 Liberty St., Evergreen
Bibb
Tuesday, August 28
6 p.m.
Alfa Office
Centreville
Walker
Thursday, August 30
6 p.m.
Federation Building
903 Airport Rd. South, Jasper
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
334 Agriculture Dr., Monroeville
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AUGUST 2012
Except Our Voices. Join us in leading a conversation about the importance of today’s agriculture and our commitment to answering American’s questions about how we raise our food. Begin by sharing your voice at www.USFRAonline.org.
USFRA Kicks Off Search For Top Ambassadors Of Agriculture
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he U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance (USFRA) is seeking applicants for its “Faces of Farming and Ranching” campaign. According to USFRA officials, the campaign will help put a real face on agriculture and shine a light on the heart, personalities and values that are behind today’s food. Farmers from across the country are encouraged to apply. To qualify, applicants must be farmers or ranchers who are proud of what they do, eager to share their stories of continuous improvement with others and are actively involved today in sharing those stories. Entries will be accepted through Sept. 8, and winners will be announced in January 2013. In addition to being awarded the opportunity to tell their stories on a national platform, winners will receive a $10,000 stipend and professional media/speaker training. They will also receive a $5,000 charitable contribution made in their name to an ag-related or local charity of their choice. For more information and details to apply, visit FoodDialogues.com. n
Clay Kennamer Beef Chairman Celebrities may be abundant in California, but Clay Kennamer says he sees plenty stars on his Hollywood farm in north Alabama. Kennamer, 35, is chairman of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s State Beef Committee and is a Jackson County Farmers Federation board member. It’s easy to see that he knows a thing or two about cows and business. “We run a stocker cattle operation, a small trucking company hauling cattle, feed some cattle in Kansas, run a few momma cows, and just started a custom backgrounding operation,” he said. A self-made farmer, Kennamer has about 800 acres of pasture he owns and leases. He wasn’t raised a farmer, but said says he’s proud to active role in agriculture and the Federation today. Kennamer and his wife, Dana, have been married eight years and are members of Scottsboro Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
AUGUST 2012
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By Lois Chaplin
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he yard just lost a big shade tree. The upside is there is more sun and less root competition, making way for more fruits, vegetables and flowers. But the terrace under the tree became instantly bare and hot, so two somewhatneglected potted trees were moved into bigger pots onto the edge of the terrace. The large pots are really a kind of investment because they last a lifetime, and we already had the trees. The trees made an instant difference and will grow to provide a little more canopy where it’s most needed. In fact, trees in containers are an excellent solution for a spot where there is no ground for planting. Not just any tree will adapt to a container, and not just any container will do. For a tree that makes a canopy, it needs room to expand its roots. Select a tree species that is okay living in a big pot, at least for a while. Eventually, the tree roots will fill the container, no matter how big the pot is, and the tree may stop growing. At that point, a
decision has to be made whether to plant it in the ground (with help) or just wait and see how long it stays healthy it in its pot-bound state. Some plants survive like this for a few more years provided they get water and food. Charlie Thigpen’s Garden Gallery at Pepper Place in Birmingham has a great selection of pots. Even the 32-inch diameter and 28-inch tall container aren’t the biggest ones he can get. The bigger the volume of soil, the bigger a tree will get. It’s also important to have a big pot for stability. The height of these trees and pots totaled 10 feet, not bad for an instant shade tree. Pots need good potting mix, regular watering and a slow-release fertilizer that feeds throughout the growing season. One tree was a Japanese maple. The other was a very special American elm started as a cutting from the Survivor Tree, a tree that survived the Oklahoma City Bombing, which is now a focal point of the memorial. (For more information visit oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org.) When selecting trees for pots,
GET GROWING AT THE CO-OP. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
the key is to choose trees with rather slow growth and roots that aren’t aggressive. The American elm doesn’t necessarily fit that description, but it spent years in a smaller pot where it was neglected, but survived anyway. It certainly lived up to its name. Small but spreading deciduous trees for pots include: paperbark maple (Acer griseum), redbud (Cercis canadensis), crape myrtle (Lagerstromia indica), river birch (Betula nigra), American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana), Golden raintree (Koelreuteria paniculata), winterberry (Ilex verticillata), purpleleaf plum (Prunus cerasifera) and smoketree (Cotinus coggygria). Big pots with evergreens are great for screening a view and creating privacy. A dwarf Southern magnolia such as Little Gem, and weeping yaupon (Ilex vomitoria Pendula), Hinoki cypress, and dwarf cryptomeria also are good choices. n _________________________________ Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.
WWW.ALAFARM.COM 26
AUGUST 2012
Farmers And Small Businesses Concerned About Impact Of ObamaCare By Debra Davis
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armers and other small business owners are concerned about the impact mandates and new taxes contained in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act would have on them. “Of particular concern to farmers are provisions in the law that increase expenses through mandated insurance coverage for individuals and employees, as well as provisions that impose new taxes like the health insurance tax,” said Alabama Farmers Federation Director of National Legislative Programs Mitt Walker. On the heels of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that deemed most of the law constitutional, members of the U.S. House of Representatives voted July 11 to repeal the federal health care overhaul, dubbed “ObamaCare.” The House has voted more than 30 times to scrap or defund the law since the president signed it in March 2010. Democrats predict the latest repeal bill has little chance of passage in the Senate, where they control the majority of votes. The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) supports the repeal approved by the House. Walker said increases in cost of health insurance because of mandated benefits, higher Medicare payroll taxes and restrictions on Health Savings Accounts, are among farmers’ and small business leaders’ greatest concerns. “Those cost increases will divert resources away from business growth and expansion to the detriment of farmers and the production of food, fiber and fuel,” Walker said. AFBF officials say health insurance reform is essential, but it must also be workable, sustainable and balanced against the overall cost of doing business. AFBF urged Congress “to pursue health insurance reform legislation that provides for increased competi-
AUGUST 2012
tion and choice, preserves a patient’s ability to keep his or her health plan, reforms the medical liability system to reduce unnecessary and wasteful health care spending, protects the doctor-patient relationship, expands incentives to encourage personal responsibility for health care coverage costs and eliminates duplicative government programs. All House Republicans voted in favor of the repeal measure. The recent Supreme Court ruling did determine that the controversial penalty on those who do not buy insurance technically qualifies as a tax and not a penalty, as the Obama
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administration had claimed. “Farm Bureau stands ready to work with Congress to develop common-sense, market-based solutions that improve health care delivery and reduce health care costs for our nation’s farmers and ranchers,” AFBF officials said in the letter to congressional leaders last month. “Only a bipartisan process that engages those who provide for their own health insurance can produce the variety of widely supported solutions needed to reduce health care costs, and increase the number of Americans with access to health care coverage.” n
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Parmesan Chicken 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 egg, slightly beaten ¾ cup Italian bread crumbs 1 jar (26-to-29-ounces) pasta sauce 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
By Kellie Henderson
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lenda Cardwell of Coosa County has been cooking family meals since she was 12 or 13 years old. The skills she acquired came in handy later in life. “My parents both worked, so my brother and I were supposed to have the house clean and dinner cooked when they got home,” she explains. “At 12, I didn’t appreciate that I was cooking every day, but I appreciated that I knew how to cook when I got married. Ricky says he appreciated it, too,” adds Glenda, as she chuckles at her husband’s remark. Married for 40 years, Glenda says Ricky sometimes starts or even completely cooks dinner when she gets home from her job at Rockford Town Hall. But she says she still cooks on a regular basis, like most people in her community. “The drugstore and café close at 2 p.m. on weekdays, so you cook if you want to eat,” says Glenda. Lifelong residents of Coosa County, the couple are both active
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in the Coosa County Farmers Federation. Glenda serves as chairman of the county Women’s Leadership Committee, and Ricky serves on the county Federation board of directors. “We’ve been active in the Federation for about 15 years,” she said, adding that other members encouraged them to get involved. The Cardwells have two children and four grandchildren, and Glenda recently traveled to Italy, where she spent two weeks with her daughter and son-in-law. “My son-in-law is Italian, and he and my daughter live in Italy. It was beautiful to spend that time there with them,” she says. “And Ricky didn’t starve while I was gone, so I guess he fended for himself just fine,” she joked. When selecting recipes to share with the Country Kitchen, Glenda says she chose dishes that were repeatedly successful. “I wanted to share things that I’d made more than once and that we all enjoyed,” she explains. 28
Preheat oven to 400 F. Dip chicken in egg, then bread crumbs. Arrange in a 9-X9-inch baking dish coated with nonstick spray. Bake uncovered about 30 minutes. Pour sauce over chicken then top with cheese and bake another 10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Serves four.
Plum Cake 1 cup cooking oil 2 cups sugar 3 eggs 2 cups self-rising flour 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cloves 2 (4-ounce) jars baby food plums 1 cup chopped pecans
Preheat oven to 350 F. Combine all ingredients except pecans in mixing bowl and stir until thoroughly combined. Fold in nuts and bake in greased tube pan one hour. Cool cake in pan 10 minutes. Invert cake onto serving plate. Good served warm. AUGUST 2012
Tomato Pie 1 frozen 9-inch deep-dish pie shell 2 medium tomatoes 1 medium onion, sliced and sautéed Salt and pepper 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled ½ cup mayonnaise ½ cup sour cream 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
Bake piecrust 6-7 minutes according to package directions, until crust begins to brown. Place sliced tomatoes into crust and top with onions. Sprinkle on salt and pepper to taste. Top with crumbled bacon. In a bowl combine mayonnaise, sour cream and cheese; spread mixture over bacon to cover completely. Bake in 400 F oven for 25 minutes. Kool-Aid Pie 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping 1 envelope unsweetened Kool-Aid drink mix ¾ cup sugar 1 9-inch graham cracker piecrust
Mix whipped topping, KoolAid and sugar together. Fold into piecrust and freeze for several hours. Makes one pie. Serves 8. For an easy orange pie, use orange Kool-Aid and 1 (15-ounce) can of drained mandarin oranges. Marinated Green Beans ¾ cups sugar ½ cup apple cider vinegar 3 tablespoons water 3 tablespoons canola oil 2 garlic cloves, minced Salt and pepper, to taste 3 (16-ounce) cans green beans, drained 2 onions, sliced
In a small bowl, combine sugar, vinegar, water, oil, garlic, salt and pepper until mixed. Place green beans and onions in a shallow, air-tight container, and pour liquid mixture on top. Refrigerate for 24 hours, stirring once or twice. Serve cold or at room temperature as a side dish. Serves 8-to-10.
Oatmeal-Raisins-Pecan Muffins 1 cup quick-cooking oats 1 cup buttermilk 1 egg ½ cup brown sugar ¼ cup shortening, melted and cooled 1 cup self-rising flour 1 tablespoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda 1 cup raisins 1 cup chopped pecans
In a small bowl, pour buttermilk over oats. Soak for 1 hour in refrigerator. Beat egg and add to oats. Stir in brown sugar and melted shortening. Mix flour, baking powder and baking soda, and stir into mixture. Fold in raisins and pecans. Spoon into 6 greased muffin tins. Bake at 375 F for 10-15 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve hot with butter or cream cheese. Buffalo Chicken Dip 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened 1 cup ranch dressing 8-to-12 ounces Frank’s Red Hot Sauce 1 cup chopped celery 1 (8-ounce) package shredded mild cheddar cheese
Preheat oven to 350 F. Combine all ingredients except cheddar and place in a baking dish 9-X7-inch baking dish coated with non-stick spray. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove from oven and stir in shredded cheese. Serve with tortilla chips. Oyster Cracker Snack 1 ½ cups canola oil 1 envelope dry ranch dressing mix 1 teaspoon dry dill weed 1 teaspoon onion powder 2 (9-ounce) packages oyster crackers
In a large bowl, combine oil with seasonings. Add crackers and toss in seasoned oil until crackers are coated. Spread crackers on a cookie sheet and bake in preheated 250 F oven for 20 minutes.
Pasta Salad 1 (16-ounce) package rainbow rotini noodles, cooked according to package directions and drained 1 pint cherry tomatoes 1 cucumber, chopped 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1 small red onion, chopped 1 (2.62-ounce) bottle McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning 1 (16-ounce) bottle Italian salad dressing
Drain rotini. Add tomatoes, cucumbers, bell pepper and onion. Mix well. Stir in seasoning and desired amount of Italian dressing. Cover and chill before serving. For variation, add a 2.5 package of sliced pepperoni. Fruit in a Jar 1 cup orange juice ¼ cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 4 cups fresh fruit, cut into bite-sized pieces (watermelon, cantaloupe, seedless grapes, kiwi, strawberries, pineapple, blueberries)
In a large sealable jar, combine orange juice, sugar and vanilla. Pour syrup in covered jar and shake until sugar is dissolved. Add fruit, cover and refrigerate overnight before serving. Can be made up to 2 days in advance. (Glenda says she makes large batches of this in a gallon jar when expecting guests, using a ladle and punch cups for serving.) Southwestern Stew 1 pound ground beef 1 medium onion, chopped 2 envelopes taco seasoning 2 envelopes dry buttermilk dressing mix 2 (16-ounce) cans each of dark red kidney beans, pintos, black beans 2 cans white shoepeg corn 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel tomatoes
In a skillet, brown ground beef with chopped onion. Drain and transfer to a large stockpot or slow cooker. Add seasonings and canned foods with liquid. Stir to combine and simmer slowly until ready to serve. n
Editor’s Note: Recipes published in the “Country Kitchen” are not kitchen-tested prior to publication. Visit www.AlfaFarmers.org for more recipes. AUGUST 2012
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Chicks soybeans soyb eans
©2012 United Soybean Board [44373]
So do pigs, cows and fish. In fact, animal ag is your number one customer – consuming 98 percent of your soybean meal. That’s one good-looking figure.