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Our farmers help feed catfish, cows, poultry and horses, too.
WHEAT & FEED GRAIN PRODUCERS
GrainsofTruth.net
VOLUME 43,
NUMBER 8
A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation
August 2018
_____________________________________
Debra Davis, Editor Laura Unger, Graphic Designer Mike Moody, Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan, Executive Director Jeff Helms, Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell, President, Stanton Rex Vaughn, Vice President/North, Huntsville Dean Wysner, Vice President/Central, Woodland George Jeffcoat, Vice President/Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper, Vice President/Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn, Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn, Hillsboro Donald Hodge, New Market Donald Sewell, Southside Rickey Cornutt, Boaz Joe Anders, Northport Phillip Hunter, Chelsea Joe Lambrecht, Wetumpka Meador Jones, Gallion Bill Cook, Montgomery Steve Stroud, Goshen Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Chris Carroll, Ariton Debbie Roberts, Fayette Ben Maples, Elkmont
6
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.
4
Raising The Roof
6
Revved Up With Red Power
10 Sticking With Soybeans
10
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001.
16 Catfish Farmer Of The Year 19 Alfa Customer Wins New Car
MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES: , 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org
28 Savory Southern Sauces
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com
On The Cover
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 A member of American Farm Bureau Federation AUGUST 2018
28
Alabama Catfish Farmer Of The Year Danny Miller and wife Sheri raise catfish and cattle on their Hale County farm. Photo by Debra Davis
Trying to grow your business? Advertise in neighbors magazine Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com 3
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Pike County Farmers Federation President and state board member Steve Stroud, left, and Pioneer Museum of Alabama Board Chairman Jeff Kervin stand in front of the log cabin, which has a new roof funded by a contribution from the Alfa Foundation.
Alfa Donation Helps Pioneer Museum Preserve The Past By Marlee Moore
A
familiar sight greets beachbound travelers, snowbirds and locals on U.S. Highway 231 just north of Troy — a cluster of wood buildings, stuffed-to-the-brim general store, farm implements and a black-as-night locomotive. The Pioneer Museum of Alabama has preserved the past since 1971, and thanks to a donation from the Alfa Foundation, its work educating students and lending trips down memory lane is headed back to tip-top condition. “Every museum has its own challenges,” said Jeff Kervin, museum board chairman. “We’re trying to preserve items that are antiques to begin with, which is why partnerships with organizations like Alfa are so important.” The Alfa Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Alfa Insurance. Its $21,750 donation helped re-roof the museum’s dogtrot cabin with cedar shake shingles — similar to the original ax-split roofing.
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
“We’re proud to help maintain this piece of history,” said Steve Stroud, Pike County Farmers Federation president and a Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa state board member. “The dogtrot cabin is integral to the museum, showcasing how Alabama pioneers lived. It’s imperative to teach the next generation how hard work and resourcefulness laid the foundation for modern society.” At the museum, director Barbara Tatom’s roots run deep. Clad in her Junior Girl Scout uniform, Tatom was present for the museum’s ribbon cutting where founder Curren Farmer actually severed a plow line — nearly 50 years ago.
The Pioneer Museum of Alabama is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday-Saturday and hosts Pioneer Days Oct. 12-13. Learn more at pioneer-museum.org. 4
“I remember the excitement when Mr. Farmer started collecting items,” Tatom said. “We want to draw all ages to our museum. Older generations can share their knowledge and memories with younger students and families who visit.” As director, she’s revamping the museum, which covers facets of pioneer life — cast-iron kitchen gadgets, quilts, furniture, corn-husk toys, musical instruments, hand-stitched clothing and Native American interactions. In the general store, décor reminds visitors it was a common gathering spot, serving as post office and a market for shoes, dry goods, tools, fabric and even caskets. An authentic schoolhouse, tenant house, corn crib and smokehouse dot the museum property. A nature trail winds through the acreage, while a covered bridge leads to a period church. Outdoor occupations such as distilling turpentine, blacksmithing, logging and milling are featured, as are modes of transportation, like buggies, a horse-drawn hearse and wagons. Farmer’s inspiration for the museum included plows and other farm equipment, which round out the displays. “I look at the equipment and am amazed by our ancestors’ ingenuity,” Tatom said. “Visitors are, too. People spend anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours with us.” Throughout the year, the museum’s picnic areas and an amphitheater set the stage for reunions, students, church groups and weddings. Some attendees of the Federation’s Commodity Producers Conference Aug. 3 will soak up Alabama’s agricultural history during museum tours. “We hope visitors see the back-breaking work it took to produce food to survive and leave here with a greater appreciation for what they have,” Kervin said. n AUGUST 2018
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Red Power Round Up Revs Up IH Tractor Fans By Mary Johns
T
hey came from different states and foreign countries, but they shared a common bond — a love for antique farm equipment painted in the iconic International Harvester red. Nearly 40,000 spectators and antique tractor enthusiasts walked through the gates at Montgomery’s Garrett Coliseum June 13-16 for the 29th Red Power Round Up, the world’s largest showcase of International Harvester equipment and agriculture-related memorabilia. “It’s a celebration of agriculture heritage,” said Randy Bodine, event coordinator and president of the Alabama International Harvesters Collector Club. “We had 800 to 1,000 tractors and other pieces of equipment displayed. When you
Cotton picking and ginning demonstrations were held twice daily at the round up. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
look at these restored tractors, you can’t help but think about all the farmers who put in countless hours of work to provide the rest of us with food and fiber.” This was Alabama’s first time to host the annual event and the farthest south it’s ever been held. For Bodine, who farms with his family in Marshall County, the event had to feature the South’s most distinctive crop — cotton. “People who come here from northern states — they’ve never seen cotton growing,” said Bodine, who still owns an International Harvester one-row cotton picker, originally purchased by his father. “We think it’s been a huge draw because people want to see these old cotton pickers actually running.” Cotton picking and ginning demonstrations were held twice daily at the round up. “Cotton is the main thing we came here to see because we just don’t have it where we’re from,” said Dan Nelson, who traveled 1,100 miles from South Dakota for the event. “I was raised on International equipment. My dad would put me on a tractor with a rake, and I’d be there all summer long until the snow started to fly. To this day, I still prefer spending an afternoon 6
A tractor parade in downtown Montgomery kicked off the Red Power Round Up. Tractors were on display at Garrett Coliseum through the event.
on a tractor pulling a two-bottom plow over anything else.” Nelson said he owns a couple dozen tractors, with 20 fully restored. “We’ve reached a point where an average person can’t work on a new tractor or implements because of the computer systems involved,” Nelson said. “But with old tractors, anybody can do the work. You can still find parts for tractors from the ‘20s and ‘30s.” Red Power Round Up revved up June 13 with an antique tractor parade down Montgomery’s historic Dexter Avenue The Alabama Farmers Federation was the presenting platinum sponsor for the event. n AUGUST 2018
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Congressmen Martha Roby, R-Alabama, and Mike Conaway, R-Texas, visited Carl Sanders' Coffee County row crop farm July 5. From left are Sanders, the Alabama Peanut Producers Association president; Conaway, who chairs the U.S. House Agriculture Committee; Roby and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell.
Conaway, Roby Discuss Pending Farm Bill With Wiregrass Constituents By Debra Davis
U
.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway and U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, R-Alabama, met with over 100 farmers in Troy July 5 to discuss final passage of the farm bill before October. The bill, which is voted on every five years, will reauthorize food, conservation and agricultural programs that benefit farmers and consumers. “What you can do between now and the end of September is don’t let up,” said Conaway, encouraging farmers to continue to contact members of Congress and ask them to work toward compromise and passage of the bill. The Senate passed its version of the farm bill June 28, also known as the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (S. 3042). The House passed its version, the Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (H.R. 2), June 21. “I’m not so arrogant that I think the House version is the one the president is going to sign, but
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
my hope is it will be a bipartisan bill,” he said. Conaway, a Texas Republican, said he expected a conference committee to be appointed by House and Senate leadership in mid July. That committee will iron out differences between the House and Senate versions of the bill. Once a final measure is approved by both chambers, it will be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature. The bill provides farmers a framework to use for the next five years, Conaway said. “It’s important we get this farm bill done on time, so right, wrong or indifferent — you’ll know what the next five years are going to look like,” he said. Roby, who serves on the House Committee on Appropriations, praised Conaway for his leadership on the committee and in Congress. “We have a very good working relationship to make sure Alabama agriculture is taken care of,” Roby said of Conaway. Both congressmen fielded questions from farmers and 8
discussed trade tariffs and low commodity prices. The chairman said he recognizes farmers’ concerns but assured them the president supports farmers. He said in recent discussions, the president encouraged Agriculture Committee members to improve crop insurance programs. Conaway said Roby will be pivotal in funding programs authorized in the final version of the farm bill. He thanked her for helping fund programs farmers need. “I can’t say enough about Martha (Roby) and the work she does,” Conaway said. “She’s a terrific ally on the Appropriations Committee. She helps make a lot of the decisions on funding for the things we are going to try to authorize in the farm bill. You have a terrific representative in her, and we really need her back in Congress.” Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell also had
U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, R-Alabama, left, and U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway, R-Texas, met with Wiregrass farmers in Troy July 5 to discuss the farm bill.
high praise for Roby. “She has always been a voice in Washington for our farmers,” Parnell said. “We depend on her conservative leadership and integrity. She has truly been a friend to farmers and all Alabamians.” After the meeting in Troy, Roby and Conaway visited Carl Sanders’ row crop farm in Coffee County, where they further discussed the farm bill and issues affecting Wiregrass producers. n AUGUST 2018
Higginbotham Moves To Federation Organization Department said Higginbotham is a welcome looking forward to building more addition to his team. relationships, working with the “The fact Mac is coming counties in Area 6 and helping their to us from the programs develop and commodity division grow.” is very exciting to Higginbotham said me,” Tidwell said. he will continue to assist “Brian Hardin (GAP his former commodity Department director) divisions through the and I have worked hard Federation’s Commodity to tear down all walls Conference Producers between our teams. in August or until his This move should replacement is named. be a big step in that He also will continue direction by providing working with the AFVGA insight we haven’t had as it prepares for its Higginbotham before.” annual conference in A Chilton County native, November. Higginbotham grew up on his As area organization director, family farm near Maplesville. He’s Higginbotham is a liaison between an Auburn University graduate the state and county Federations, with a bachelor’s degree in providing communication between agronomy and soil science. both groups. He and wife Janie raise cattle The Federation has 10 areas and timber on their farm in Orrville across the state. Organization Department Director Mike Tidwell with their three children. n
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10-year veteran of the Alabama Farmers Federation home office is taking his experience to the field as an area organization director for Bibb, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Perry, Pickens, Sumter and Tuscaloosa counties. Mac Higginbotham, 40, began work with the Federation in 2008 in the Governmental and Agricultural Programs (GAP) Department where he served as the Bee & Honey; Horticulture; and Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod Divisions director and executive director of the Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA). He began his new position with the Federation’s Organization Department July 2. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my 10 years working in the home office. I’ve made some life-long friends, and I really appreciate the relationships I’ve built and experience I’ve gained,” Higginbotham said. “I’m
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877-776-3518 w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
By Ginny Bradley
A
team of Auburn University (AU) researchers is perfecting a particleboard recipe using soy flour as a binder — an ingredient substitution poised to add value to soybeans while saving companies money. A $25,000 grant from the Alabama Soybean Checkoff is funding the research, spearheaded by AU Forest Products Development Center Director Brian Via and Georgia Tech’s Dr. Sujit Banerjee. “Using soy flour in engineered wood products is an opportunity to cross-pollinate two of Alabama’s industries — soybean and timber,” Via said. “Bridging this gap will Alabama Soybean Committee Chairman Colt Clemmons said research projects funded by checkoff dollars are a good investment for farmers.
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
10
improve our state’s economy.” Particleboard is an engineered wood product used most commonly in indoor furniture such as tables, bookshelves and cabinets. The binder, or glue, is a large portion of the manufacturing price, so substituting less expensive components such as soy flour could significantly reduce the wood product’s cost. Via estimates soy flour is three times cheaper than MDI (polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate), the base resin commonly used to manufacture wood composites. “In previous research (funded by the United Soybean Board), we successfully added soy flour resin to OSB (oriented strand board),” Via said. “We are trying to take what we learned from that project and apply it to particleboard.” In OSB, about 20 percent of MDI can be substituted with soy flour without diminishing performance AUGUST 2018
AU Forest Products Development Center Director Brian Via and Auburn graduate research assistant Osei Aside Asafu-Adjaye display particle board and OSB created with a soybean flour binding agent. Alabama Soybean Producers contributed $25,000 from its Soybean Checkoff to help fund the research project.
and quality. Via’s team is now determining the percent of soy flour the particleboard composite can support. “The goal is for particleboard with added soy flour to perform on the same level as the normal product,” Via said. To gauge performance level, the particleboard is tested for features such as durability, strength and water resistance. Using soy flour in particleboard would positively impact the soybean industry, said the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Carla Hornady. One particleboard mill could use approximately 150,000 bushels of soy each year, pending the substitution level Via perfects. “The soybean checkoff is a self-imposed tax farmers pay to further soy-related research, promotion and education,” said Hornady, the Federation’s Soybean Division director. “Dr. Via’s AUGUST 2018
research is just one way farmers are funding product development that will benefit growers and the soy industry as a whole.” Consumers and manufacturers benefit from replacing petroleumbased MDI with soy flour, too, through increased sustainability and air quality. It’s a win-win-win project, said Alabama Soybean
Committee Chairman Colt Clemmons. “Increasing demand for soybeans will yield positive results for the state’s farmers,” said Clemmons, who farms in Lauderdale County. “We’re excited to see where this project leads and the effect it will have on Alabama soybean production.” n
Soybean Checkoff Dollars u Ninety-eight percent of U.S. soy meal goes to animal agriculture. u For every checkoff dollar invested, $5.20 is returned to the farmer through checkoff investments. u About 85 percent of the world’s soybeans are processed into soybean meal and oil. 11
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Alfa senior software engineer Hilary Cunningham, right, and hundreds more employees enjoyed the Alfa Farmers Market Day. She purchased fresh produce from Beverly Aplin of Aplin Farms.
Farmers Market Brings Fresh Tastes To Alfa Home Office By Morgan Graham
A
lfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation employees got a fresh taste of agriculture when seven farms from south and central Alabama sold produce and other goods at the Alfa Farmers Market June 27. The annual event, held at Alfa’s home office in Montgomery, allowed employees to buy farm-fresh produce, homemade baked items, jams, jellies and more fan-favorites in time for the Fourth of July. Alfa claims auditor Debora Woodson said the market day reduces time spent looking for produce after work. She said she was especially excited to try the sour cream pound cake from Pintlala Pantry. “Getting to meet the people who grow and make our food automatically makes the food better, because you know you are helping someone else feed their family,” Woodson said. Popular market items included tomatoes, peaches, sweet corn, okra, squash, stone-ground grits and w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
cheese. The market provides a convenient opportunity for employees to support local agriculture while stocking up on fresh produce, said Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) Intern Caleb Hicks. “It’s great to bring the market to Alfa and the Federation,” said Hicks.
“Because of time and other responsibilities, some employees may be unable to shop at the local market. Whether it’s with fresh corn, a juicy watermelon or Chilton County peaches, our employees were able to celebrate the Fourth of July with all-American, homegrown foods.” John Aplin of Aplin Farms in Slocomb said he enjoys meeting Alfa employees and explaining where produce comes from. He also explains how to care for the food after it’s purchased. “We used to sell tomatoes all over the U.S. and Canada, but now we make our living selling our produce at farmers markets,” Aplin said. “This gives us the opportunity to interact with our customers and create a lasting relationship.” Kate Taylor, who works in Human Resources, won a basket of goodies courtesy of Alfa and Federation President Jimmy Parnell through the Alfa Farmers Market Facebook contest. Other vendors were Wright Dairy of Calhoun County, Penton Farms of Chilton County, Oakview Farms of Elmore County, Hornsby Farms of Lee County, Ballard Creek Farms of Lowndes County and Pintlala Pantry of Montgomery County. n
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HOW TO EAT CATFISH By Sean Dietrich, Sean of the South
I
want you to pretend we’re way back in history,” said Grandaddy, dropping hunks of catfish into the deep fryer. “Back in Biblical times.” It was hard to imagine Biblical things. My imagination only traveled as far back as the Wild West. I could, however, visualize Indian chiefs, women of the night, and gunslingers with considerable clarity. “One day,” Grandaddy said. “Old Jesus was speaking to billions of folks who’d come to see him talk. He talked about being sweet to your little sister, picking up your room, and…” “Was he the sheriff?” I asked. “Sheriff? Kinda.” “Did he have a horse?” “Well, it was more like a donkey.” A donkey? Not even rodeo clowns ride donkeys. “Anyway,” he said making his eyes big. “One day, all these folks that come to hear Jesus, started getting hungry, and I mean starving…” “Was it a BIG donkey?” “Normal-sized.” “I’ve never met a sheriff without a horse…” “Like I was saying, none of these hungry billions had Shinola to eat. Nobody except this one little boy, who looked a lot like you. He had a small basket of catfish and hushpuppies, which he gave to Jesus.” “I love catfish,” I remarked, even though this was already well recorded
in three counties. He nodded. “I know, and so did Jesus. Still, he didn’t feel right about eating the boy’s lunch, since the child was giving it freely. So, he split it with his buddy Peter.” “Is that his deputy?” “How’s that?” “Is Peter Jesus’ deputy?” “Oh, yessir, you better believe it.” “Did HE have a horse?” “Well, not really.” These are some sorry cowboys. “You see,” he said. “Deputy Peter, was obliged to split his lunch with Deputy Andrew. So then, Andrew split his lunch with Phillip, and then Phillip with James, and James with—” “JESSE James?” “Uh…Yeah, I suppose.” Well, why didn’t you say so? Now we’ve got ourselves a story. Grandaddy went on, “It kept going like this, everybody splitting hushpuppies with everybody, and the food kept dividing. And you know how it is with all-you-can-eat fried catfish, they ate until they was sick. All from a little old catfish. And you know why?” “Because cowboys always crush their opponents?” “No. Because when you give something away, with a happy heart, other folks will join in the fun. When everybody’s doing it…Well, that’s called love.” n
Columnist and novelist Sean Dietrich shares tales of common people, the human spirit, traditional regional music and life in the American South through his podcast series at SeanDietrich.com. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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Blackmon Joins Federation As Area 4 Organization Director
S
teven Blackmon, a native of Georgetown, Georgia, has joined the Alabama Farmers Federation Organization Department, where he will serve farmers in Clay, Cleburne, Coosa Talladega, Tallapoosa and St. Clair counties. Blackmon began his job May 29. He said he’s excited about working with farmers and the Blackmon Federation. “I love the fact that I get to work with farmers every day,” said Blackmon, 28. “Farmers are the backbone of America.” As an area organization director, Blackmon is a liaison between the state and county Federations, providing a direct line of communication between both groups. The Federation is composed of 10 areas across the state. Federation Organization Department Director Mike Tidwell said Blackmon’s character and servant’s heart will be an asset in this career. “We look forward to Steven meeting members and leaders throughout Area 4 and the rest of the state,” Tidwell said. “He is a bright, observant young man.” Blackmon grew up on a commercial cattle farm in Georgetown. He met his wife, Whitney, while attending Auburn University, where he graduated with B.S. in agricultural business and economics in 2014. They currently live in Auburn. Before joining the Federation, Blackmon was assistant manager at Taleecon Farmers Cooperative in Notasulga and Wetumpka. n AUGUST 2018
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Nothing But Net Catfish Farmer Captures Top Honor
Danny Miller checks the oxygen level in his Hale County catfish pond.
By Debra Davis
U
nlike some farmers who can easily see how their crops are doing, Hale County’s Danny Miller depends on sophisticated monitoring equipment to check water quality and oxygen levels in his catfish ponds. He also uses his 35 years of experience to produce flaky, tasty food he knows will end up on someone’s plate. Miller’s success in producing quality catfish, along with environmental stewardship, earned him w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
the title of Alabama Catfish Farmer of the Year. The designation was voted on by fellow catfish farmers across the state earlier this year. “Being Catfish Farmer of the Year is a big honor,” said Miller, who serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation’s State Catfish Committee. “We take a lot of pride in what we do on our farm. Raising catfish is a lot of work, and I couldn’t do it without the support of my wife, Sheri, and our family.” Earlier this year, the Millers attended Seafood Expo North 16
America in Boston, where they joined honorable counterparts from Mississippi and Arkansas and served catfish samples to seafood buyers from around the world. “I was proud of our U.S. Catfish booth,” Miller said. “It was covered in red, white and blue, and we served 300 pounds of fresh, fried catfish samples. It was a popular stop in the trade show. It’s a good feeling to know you’re growing a delicious, healthy, safe product people love to eat.” Federation Catfish Division Director Mitt Walker said Alabama’s catfish farms play a significant role in the state’s economy, with about 1,500 Alabamians directly engaged in catfish production or processing. The state’s top catfish-producing counties are Hale, Green, Dallas and Perry counties. “Alabama farmers produce 33 percent of all catfish in the U.S. annually with 120 million pounds on 85 farms,” he said. “Our state AUGUST 2018
has over 17,000 water surface acres dedicated to catfish production.” Miller, 63, farms with his father and brother. Their 64 ponds covering 840 acres near Greensboro raise about 6 million pounds of fish a year. To the untrained eye, raising fish might be easy, Miller said. But nothing could be further from the truth, he added. “I’m sure there are people who think we just put the fish in the pond and dump out feed until harvest,” he said. “There’s a lot more to it than that.” Fish are fed a diet of corn and soybeans along with minerals and vitamins to help them grow and remain healthy. There was a time when maintaining oxygen levels was a catfish farmer’s biggest concern, Miller said. Today, however, overall fish health demands a lot of time and attention. Miller’s parents, Dan and AnnaMae, moved to Hale County AUGUST 2018
in 1980 from Ohio, where the family farmed and had a carpentry business specializing in home construction. They built their first two ponds in 1983 and soon discovered catfish were more profitable than soybeans. “We’ve always tried to be the best at whatever we do,” Miller said. “When we got into the catfish business, it was in its infancy. There was still a lot of growing and learning. We even built our own
Alabama farmers raise 120 million pounds of catfish annually on 85 farms. 17
first feed truck.” In addition to raising their six children on the farm, the Millers also raise hay and have a herd of Red Angus crossbred cattle. But catfish remains king because it efficiently, sustainably converts feed to pounds of gain, Miller said. “Our goal has always been to be sustainable and be good stewards of the land,” he said. “Our goal is to produce 8,000 pounds of fish per acre, which converts to 4,000 pounds of fillets. That means we will feed about 16,000 pounds of feed to produce fish just on that one acre.” Miller credits catfish industry development to Auburn University and the Alabama Fish Farming Center in Greensboro. He credits his success in farming and in life to God. “I totally believe any success we have had in the past has been a blessing from God,” he said. “Our faith in God has been the best answer for life.” n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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AUGUST 2018
Dallas County Alfa Customer Wins New Car In Ford Sweepstakes
S
hemika Curtis of Marion Junction said she has never owned a new car, but she drove away in a new Ford July 2, thanks to the Built Ford Tough F-150 Sweepstakes. She was one of nearly 12,000 Alabama Farmers Federation members who entered the sweepstakes Nov. 1, 2017, through May 31. Participants entered the sweepstakes online or through their local Alfa Insurance offices for a chance to win a two-year lease on a Ford F-150. Curtis opted to pay the difference in the lease price and purchased a Ford Focus. Harbin Ford of Scottsboro delivered the new car. “When I got the call, I thought it was a prank,” said the mother of five, who at the time was on lunch break from her job at Seoyon-EWho, a Hyundai Motor Co. supplier in Selma. “I started to hang up, but he kept talking, and I remembered
Alfa and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, left, presented keys to a new Ford Focus to Shemika Curtis of Marion Junction as Bob Bouldin of Harbin Ford looks on. Curtis was one of nearly 12,000 Federation members who entered the Ford Sweepstakes.
filling out the sweepstakes form when I paid my insurance last year. I’ve never won anything like this. My old car was giving me trouble, and I didn’t know what I was going to do about paying to have it repaired. This is such a blessing,
and it came at the perfect time.” Curtis said she’s been an Alfa Insurance customer for more than eight years. She praised the company for its friendly service. “I know it’s a good company to do business with,” she said, “and you can bet my new car will be insured by Alfa, too.” Alfa President Jimmy Parnell presented the keys to Curtis in a ceremony at the company’s Montgomery headquarters as her family looked on. “It’s great to see someone so excited,” Parnell said. “Our organization has a great partnership with Ford, and we are happy to reward one of our members with a great Ford vehicle.” The national Built Ford Tough F-150 Sweepstakes continues until Sept. 30. Members can text the word SWEEPS to 46786 to enter. Messaging rates apply. n
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Apply By Aug. 31 For Century, Heritage & Bicentennial Farm Programs
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he Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) is accepting applications through Aug. 31 for the annual Century and Heritage Farm and Bicentennial Farm programs. The programs recognize family farms that have played a significant role in Alabama’s history. A Century Farm is one that has been in the same family continuously for at least 100 years and currently has some agricultural activities on the farm. The farm must include at least 40 acres of land and be owned by the applicant or nominee. A Heritage Farm is one that has been operated continuously as a family farm for at least 100 years. The farm must possess interesting, important historical and agricultural aspects, including one or more
4
structures at least 40 years old. The farm must also include at least 40 acres of land owned and operated by the applicant, who must reside in Alabama. To date, the program has recognized over 600 farms across the state. The ADAI also is accepting applications for the Bicentennial
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT
Chase Hammock
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Talladega County’s Chase Hammock has a sweet job as the mixed processing manager at Blue Bell Creameries in Sylacauga. He’s also the State Young Farmers District 3 representative and co-manages the Sylacauga Farmers Market. The 28-yearold and wife Ashley have been married four years and have a son, Asher. They attend First Baptist Sylacauga.
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Farm program, which launched last year. The Bicentennial Farm program honors family farms that have remained in the same family for 200 years. It is administered similarly to the C & H Farm program. To date, only three farms in the state have been recognized by this program. A Bicentennial Farm must currently have some agricultural activities, be at least 40 acres in size and owned by an Alabama resident. Alabama will officially observe its 200th birthday Dec. 14, 2019. Owners of farms that meet the qualifications should contact Amy Belcher at (334) 240-7126 or amy.belcher@agi.alabama.gov. Applications and requirements are available at agi.alabama.gov under the “Forms” tab. n
WhaT do you do at blue bell?
I manage inventories for raw ingredients, perform tests, record data and make sure we put out a good product. The best thing about my job is I’m close to the farmer. Ingredients come from the farm straight to us.
How did you get involved in agriculture?
I was raised on a cattle farm in Randolph County and studied ag economics at Auburn. In Talladega County, I help out at a friend’s farm so I can still be around farming. I want to start my own cattle herd soon.
Why do you serve on the state committee?
I have ties across three counties and know a lot of people. I want us to go outside our comfort zone and recruit. If we don’t get people involved in Young Farmers now, they may never be in our organization.
What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?
Homemade vanilla, which nobody believes. It goes back to farming and the taste of homemade ice cream when you get off the tractor on a hot day.
AUGUST 2018
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AUGUST 2018
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Alabama 4-H Science School Educates Youth About The Natural World By Brittney Kimber
T
he Alabama 4-H Science School provides environmental education for more than 5,000 young people each year. For over 20 years, and on 242 acres, the science school has taught youth about the outdoors and how to be good stewards of the natural world. Students participate yearround in hands-on learning classes and activities that align with Alabama Course of Study standards for grades K-12. Classes include herpetology, water ecology, entomology, invertebrate studies and forest ecology. “We try to inspire learning, leadership and curiosity in each class and activity provided in a safe, structured atmosphere,” said Amy Walker, science school director of
An Alabama 4-H student holds a catfish during the Something’s Fishy program.
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
environmental education. Instructors are first aid, CPR and American Red Cross lifeguard certified; have undergone background checks; and have completed counselor training. “Each season we have a diverse group of instructors from across the country who love what they do,” Walker said. The science school offers one-, two- and three-day programs. The three-day program includes two nights lodging, 12 hours of daytime classes, three hours of evening classes, seven meals and fun-filled learning opportunities. Herpetology is one of the most popular classes. Young people learn about the reptiles and amphibians native to Alabama. This program is provided in a one- or two-hour session. More than 1,000 youth participate in the herpetology program each year. Friends of a Feather and Raptor Trek are also two popular programs that can be taken together. Food chains and beak adaptations are among the topics covered in the Friends of a Feather program. Raptor Trek showcases both diurnal and nocturnal raptors. “The students learn about the world of birds through observation and discussion,” Walker said. “They even have a chance to meet the birds up close.” Several birds are housed at the Alabama 4-H Science School.
24
Hickory, an eastern hognose snake, is one of the many reptiles young people can learn about in the herpetology class.
Students can interact with an American kestrel, a broad-winged hawk, a Mississippi kite and a great horned owl, among others. Staff-led evening programs span from night hikes to astronomy to campfire activities. Young people learn about the constellations and nocturnal adaptations, such as night vision and acute hearing. In addition to teaching classes at the science school, staff travel around the state for additional outreach programs. These reach approximately 17,000 people a year and continue to grow. Learn more about classes offered at the science school and more outreach opportunities by visiting Alabama4HScienceSchool.org. The Alabama 4-H Science School is located at 892 Four H Road in Columbiana, Alabama. Contact the office at (205) 669-4241 for more information. n
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Photos by Van Chaplin
“Planting Guide for Home Gardening in Alabama” for help with times to start plants or seeds in the ground. Visit ACES. edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-0063/ ANR-0063.pdf. Hot weather dries the soil easily, so keep the seeds moist. Unless it rains, they need water every day until they begin to grow roots big enough to draw soil moisture. Lettuce, arugula, cilantro and spinach are more successful in fall than spring. They give gardeners a hard time in the spring because warm By Lois Chaplin weather causes them to bolt, or stretch tall and go to seed. That’s when the flavors are off and spiring vegetable gardeners Although the the harvest is sparse. are usually surprised to learn heat can chase In fall, the cool the best season to grow a some gardeners weather encourages first garden is the fall. Everyone indoors, it’s more growth. For thinks of spring, but fall offers nice time to start gardeners who have advantages — cooler weather, fewer transplants to set been frustrated by pests and smaller, more manageable out later or sow these in spring, plants than most summer crops. seeds of some try a fall crop for a The long list of things that grow crops directly in pleasant surprise. well in fall include lettuce, arugula, the ground. To Root crops such endive, spinach, radicchio, Chinese grow seedlings of as beets, turnips, cabbage, heading cabbage, collards, broccoli, Brussels Hoops made from PVC are in place for radishes and carrots mustard greens, parsley, cilantro, sprouts, cabbage, draping a frost cloth over this bed in the do better if sown radishes, beets, carrots, turnips and cauliflower, winter. Plants continue to grow under directly in the onions. Because of their “cut-andcollards, kale, the frost cloth all winter. ground. They don’t come-again” nature, many leafy kohlrabi, parsley, transplant well. Because the ground crops provide ongoing harvests of leeks and onion, start now by is warm in August, it helps to lay fabulous salads and greens. sowing seeds in small pots or box board or a wooden board over Onions planted in fall will plastic cell packs recycled from the planted row to keep it cool produce scallions though winter, spring planting. and moist. Check under the board then make full-sized bulbs next Because lettuce, arugula, onion, daily, and lift it as soon as the seeds spring. Fall crops don’t need full cilantro and spinach transplants sprout. sun either, which means even folks don’t like heat, they can’t go into If the kids or grandkids are bored with too much shade for a summer the garden until early October. Wait garden can grow these when until about Labor Day to start these by summer’s end, starting a few fall treetops are bare. transplants, or use transplants such plants could be a good project to keep them occupied before school Many fall crops are hardy as Bonnie Plants purchased from a starts, and there will be lots of good enough to live through winter, too, favorite garden center. veggies to enjoy during football especially in south Alabama, or When growing seedlings, use a season. n with a little cover in other parts of good quality potting soil to fill the the state. Some gardeners also start pots, and keep them in the shade Lois Chaplin is an accomplished a second crop of yellow squash or until the seeds sprout and start gardener and author. bush beans as there is still enough growing the first sign of leaves. Her work appears here warmth to bring on these fastThe Alabama Cooperative courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative. maturing summer crops. Extension System publishes
A
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AUGUST 2018
COUNTY FEDERATION ANNUAL MEETINGS
COUNTY
DATE
TIME
BUILDING
ADDRESS
CITY
AUTAUGA
Wed., Aug. 15
07:00 PM
Autauga County Ag Center
2224 Hwy. 14 W
Autaugaville
BALDWIN
Thu., Aug. 23
07:00 PM
Baldwin County Federation Office
21332 Hwy. 59
Robertsdale
BARBOUR
Thu., Aug. 9
07:30 PM
Texasville Community Center
2429 County Rd. 53
Clayton
BIBB
Tue., Aug. 28
06:00 PM
Alfa Service Center
1101 Walnut St.
Centreville
BLOUNT
Thu., Aug. 16
06:30 PM
Frank J. Green Building
415 5th Ave. East
Oneonta
BULLOCK
Thu., Aug. 16
06:30 PM
Greenway Sportsman’s Lodge
2621 Hwy. 223
Union Springs
BUTLER
Mon., Sept. 17
06:00 PM
Pioneer Electric Building
300 Herbert Street
Greenville
CALHOUN
Thu., Aug. 9
06:30 PM
Calhoun Co. Federation Office
1535 Pelham Rd. S
Jacksonville
CHAMBERS
Mon., Aug. 20
12:00 PM
Alfa Service Center
1006 Ave. A.S.E.
Lafayette
CHEROKEE
Fri., Aug. 10
06:30 PM
Dean Buttram Senior Center
229 Dean Buttram Ave.
Centre
CHILTON
Tue., Aug. 14
07:00 PM
Alfa Office
301 1st St. N
Clanton
CHOCTAW
Tue., Aug. 21
06:00 PM
Alfa Service Center
229 S. Mulberry Ave.
Butler
CLARKE
Tue., Aug. 28
06:30 PM
Alfa Service Center
148 S. Jackson St.
Grove Hill
CLAY
Thu., Aug. 23
06:30 PM
Miss Anita’s Café
30 South Park Dr.
Lineville
CLEBURNE
Tue., Aug. 14
06:30 PM
The Mountain Center
6751 Hwy. 78
Heflin
COLBERT
Mon., Aug. 27
06:30 PM
Hospitality House NWS College
800 George Wallace Blvd.
Muscle Shoals
CONECUH
Tue., Aug. 14
06:00 PM
David Burt Building
102 Liberty St.
Evergreen
COOSA
Thu., Aug. 9
06:30 PM
Old Rockford Schoolhouse
Nixburg Rd. & County Rd. 18
Rockford
COVINGTON
Thu., Aug. 23
06:30 PM
Oakwood Lodge
13725 Brooklyn Rd.
Andalusia
CRENSHAW
Thu., Sept. 13
06:30 PM
Alfa Office
357 S. Forest Ave.
Luverne
CULLMAN
Thu., Aug. 9
07:00 PM
Cullman Farmers Federation Building
307 Main Ave. SW
Cullman
DALE
Mon., Aug. 13
07:00 PM
Dale County Government Building
202 Hwy. 123 S
Ozark
DALLAS
Tue., Sept. 18
06:00 PM
Alfa Office
403 Broad St.
Selma
DEKALB
Tue., Aug. 21
06:30 PM
Alfa Service Center
346 McCurdy Ave. S
Rainsville
ESCAMBIA
Tue., Aug. 21
06:00 PM
Ag Center
175 Ag Science Dr.
Brewton
ETOWAH
Mon., Aug. 13
06:30 PM
Etowah County Federation Office
125 Broad St.
Gadsden
FAYETTE
Tue., Aug. 14
06:30 PM
Lawrence Mill Club
490 Hwy 129
Fayette
FRANKLIN
Tue., Aug. 14
07:00 PM
Best Western Plus Russellville
13770 HWY 43
Russellville
GENEVA
Tue., Aug. 21
07:00 PM
Geneva County Farm Center
2765 E. State Hwy. 52
Hartford
GREENE
Tue., Sept. 11
06:00 PM
Alfa Service Center
101 Boligee St.
Eutaw
HALE
Thu., Sept. 6
01:00 PM
The Catfish Center
529 S. Centreville St.
Greensboro
HENRY
Tue., Aug. 7
07:00 PM
Wiregrass Research & Extension Center
167 E. State Hwy. 134
Headland
HOUSTON
Thu., Aug. 30
06:30 PM
Alfa Service Center
1038 Ross Clark Circle NE
Dothan
JACKSON
Tue., Aug. 7
06:30 PM
Jackson County Federation Office
23625 John T. Reid Pkwy.
Scottsboro
JEFFERSON
Fri., Aug. 31
10:00 AM
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
2612 Lane Park Rd.
Mountain Brook
LAMAR
Mon., Aug. 13
06:30 PM
Vernon City Complex
44425 AL 17
Vernon
LAUDERDALE
Mon., Aug. 13
07:00 PM
Lauderdale County Extension Building-Ag Center
802 Veterans Dr.
Florence
LAWRENCE
Thu., Aug. 9
06:30 PM
Lawrence County Ag Center
13075 Ala-157
Moulton
LIMESTONE
Thu., Aug. 16
06:30 PM
First National Bank
1880 US Hwy. 72 E
Athens
LOWNDES
Tue., Sept. 4
06:30 PM
Southern Sportsman Lodge
9022 US Hwy. 80 W
Tyler
MACON
Mon., Aug. 6
06:30 PM
Beck’s Turf Farm
2858 County Rd. 53
Tuskegee
MADISON
Mon., Aug. 6
05:00 PM
Early Works Museum
404 Madison St. SE
Huntsville
MARENGO
Tue., Sept. 11
06:30 PM
Alfa Service Center
206 Shiloh St.
Linden
MARION
Fri., Aug. 10
06:30 PM
Tom Bigbee Electric Co-Op
3196 Co. Rd. 55
Hamilton
MARSHALL
Tue., Aug. 28
07:00 PM
Marshall County Federation Office
1333 Blount Ave.
Guntersville
MONROE
Thu., Aug. 30
06:30 PM
Monroe County Soil & Water Building
334 Agriculture Dr.
Monroeville
MONTGOMERY
Thu., Aug. 16
06:00 PM
Alfa Home Office
2108 E. South Blvd.
Montgomery
MORGAN
Fri., Aug. 10
06:30 PM
Hartselle Civic Center
406 Nance Ford Rd. SW
Hartselle
PERRY
Tue., Sept. 4
11:00 AM
Alfa Service Center
406 Pickens St.
Marion
PICKENS
Thu., Aug. 23
06:00 PM
Cheeky’s Restaurant
129 Industrial Park St.
Gordo
RANDOLPH
Sat., Aug. 18
05:30 PM
Randolph County Ag Center
2959 County Rd. 333
Wedowee
RUSSELL
Mon., Aug. 20
7:00 PM EST
Seale Courthouse
91 Longview St.
Seale
SHELBY
Mon., Aug. 20
06:30 PM
Shelby County Museum & Archives
1854 North Main St.
Columbiana
ST. CLAIR
Sat., Aug. 11
12:00 PM
Greensport Marina On The Island
925 Greensport
Ashville
TALLADEGA
Thu., Aug. 16
07:00 PM
Alfa Service Center
314 East Battle St.
Talladega
TALLAPOOSA
Tue., Aug. 28
06:00 PM
Tallapoosa County Farmers Federation Building
111 North Tallassee St.
Dadeville
TUSCALOOSA
Thu., Aug. 16
07:00 PM
Bobby Miller Center
350 Bobby Miller Pkwy
Tuscaloosa
WALKER
Tue., Aug. 28
06:30 PM
Walker County Farmers Federation Building
903 Airport Rd. S
Jasper
WASHINGTON
Mon., Aug. 13
07:00 PM
Alfa Service Center
54 Court Street
Chatom
WINSTON
Thu., Sept. 13
06:00 PM
Bernice Hilton Walker Community Center
11 Blake Dr.
Double Springs
AUGUST 2018
27
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family’s cattle and hay farm and are Montgomery County Farmers Federation board members. They don’t have time to cook complicated, gourmet meals, but Stacey says homemade sauces like their pepper sauce take simple, straightforward cooking to the next level. “We stay very busy,” Stacey said. “So when we cook, we don’t ever make anything difficult. That’s what’s so great about this pepper sauce — it is so easy and simple, but it’s so good.” Other popular sauces are favorites for barbecue lovers. Whether it’s chicken or pork, white barbecue sauce made by Juanita Haynes in Cullman County adds extra flavor that’s a favorite. Jeremy Brown of Montgomery County perfected a more traditional barbecue sauce when he began cooking for crowds at fundraisers near the Ramer community. It’s hard to say which is the most popular — the sauce he makes or the Boston butts that cook for hours. Either way, sauces are a sure way to spice up any meal and, in some cases, conjure up delicious family memories. n By Jill Clair Gentry
S
outherners know something as simple as a sauce can transform a meal. Of course, store shelves have an abundance of sauces available, but nothing beats homemade. Sauces can be made ahead of time and kept refrigerated for extended periods, so they’re always available when needed. For Tim and Stacey Nestor of Montgomery County, one incredibly simple sauce brings back countless memories of family time on the farm, in the kitchen and around the table. “It all started with my dad’s little family garden,” Tim said. “One year, he had a little extra space, and I asked if he would plant me some peppers because I wanted
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to try and make my own pepper sauce.” Tim’s dad planted a few varieties of peppers — tabasco, jalapeno and cayenne. Tim involved the couple’s young daughters, Emily and Melissa, now 25 and 21, in the pepper sauce project. “I’d pick the peppers, of course, but they were right there with me, and we’d talk about it and make the sauce together every year,” Tim said. “After it became a tradition, the girls were always looking for interesting or unusual bottles to put our pepper sauce in. They loved putting Dad’s pepper sauce on everything.” The Nestors help run Stacey’s 28
SIMPLE PEPPER SAUCE Courtesy of Tim and Stacey Nestor Start-to-finish: 20 minutes Makes 1 pint 1 cup vinegar 1/2 to 1 teaspoon olive oil (for spicier sauce), optional About 30 small peppers (tabasco, jalapeno or cayenne, or a mixture) 1 glass pint jar with lid and ring
Sterilize jar. Boil vinegar and optional olive oil. Fill jar with peppers and pour hot vinegar over, leaving about 1 inch of head space. Release air bubbles by tilting jar back and forth slightly. Wipe jar rim with a damp paper towel, and place lid and ring on jar. Allow to cool at room temperature until jar seals. If planning to use pepper sauce within a few weeks, it can be made in any jar and does not need to be sealed. Store in refrigerator. AUGUST 2018
HOMEMADE HOT SAUCE Start-to-finish: 15 minutes Makes 1 pint WHITE BARBECUE SAUCE Courtesy of Juanita Haynes Start-to-finish: 5 minutes Makes 1 pint 1 pint mayonnaise 2 tablespoons salt 6 tablespoons lemon juice 6 tablespoons vinegar 4 tablespoons sugar
Blend all ingredients. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 4 weeks.
20 fresh peppers, tops removed and sliced in half (do not remove seeds) 1 1/2 cups white vinegar 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 teaspoons garlic, minced
In a large saucepan, bring peppers, vinegar, salt and garlic to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until peppers are tender, about 10 minutes. Pour into a blender and blend until liquefied. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
processor prevents mayonnaise from emulsifying)
HOMEMADE MAYONNAISE Start-to-finish: 20 minutes Makes 1 cup 1 large egg, room temperature 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon red or white wine vinegar 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1 cup canola oil, divided 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Small food processor or immersion blender (using too large of a food AUGUST 2018
Add egg, mustard, vinegar and salt to the bowl of a small food processor. Process for 20 seconds. Scrape the sides and bottom of bowl. Turn the processor on and slowly add 1/4 cup of the oil in tiny drops. When the mixture begins to thicken and emulsify, add the rest of the oil in a thin stream. When all the oil has been added, scrape the bottom and sides of bowl and process for 10 seconds. Add lemon juice or extra vinegar to taste. If mayonnaise seems too thin, turn on processor and slowly stream in more oil until mayonnaise thickens. Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. 29
BASIC BARBECUE SAUCE Courtesy of Jeremy Brown Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 20 minutes (20 minutes active) Makes 1 gallon 4 tablespoons minced onions 2 1/2 cups ketchup 1 cup mustard 1 1/4 cups Worcestershire sauce 1 cup vinegar 1/2 cup lemon juice 2 1/2 teaspoons black pepper 3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons Durkee Famous Sandwich and Salad Sauce 1/2 cup hot sauce
In a large pot, mix all ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring frequently, for at least one hour. Allow to cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
EASY HOMEMADE STEAK SAUCE Start-to-finish: 5 minutes Makes 1 cup 1/4 cup ketchup 2 teaspoons yellow mustard 4 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar 1/4 teaspoon tabasco sauce 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix all ingredients well. Store in a container with a lid in refrigerator up to 4 weeks. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g