Rogers To Receive Federation’s Service To Agriculture Award By Debra Davis
fifth-generation resident of east Alabama, he graduated from Saks High School and earned his undergraduate degree in political science and his Master of Public Administration at Jacksonville State University. He later graduated from the Birmingham School of Law. His political career includes service as a Calhoun County commissioner, a member of the Alabama House of Representatives and House minority leader in 1998. In Congress, he serves as chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation Security and serves as a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. He said his top priorities include strengthening east Alabama’s vital military facilities, advocating the state’s agriculture interests and helping grow the state’s economy to provide new opportunities for jobs and development. During a recent trip to Macon County, Rogers visited with Macon County Farmers Federation President Shep Morris as he gathered his cotton crop. Morris said having someone who appreciates agriculture in Congress is invaluable. “We’ve worked with Congressman Rogers a long time, and he’s a great voice for agriculture,” Morris said. “A lot of times agriculture is overlooked in Congress, but he’s hung in there for agriculture through the ups and through the downs, and we want him to stay there.” n
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.S. Rep. Mike Rogers jokingly describes himself as a “recovering attorney,” but Alabama farmers might describe him as a valued friend and ally in Congress. That’s why he was chosen to receive this year’s Service to Agriculture Award — the highest honor presented by the Alabama Farmers Federation. Federation President Jerry Newby will present Rogers the award during the organization’s 90th annual meeting in Mobile, Dec. 5. “I can’t tell you how flattered I was when Jerry Newby called me about the award,” Rogers said. “When I was elected to Congress and started working on the (House) Agriculture Committee, it took a lot of folks in the agriculture community to help educate me on ag policy. Alfa was right there. I know they appreciate the nine years I’ve worked to help agriculture and all of Alabama.” Newby praised Rogers’ work to help Alabama farmers. “Congressman Rogers formed an agricultural advisory committee made up of farmers to advise him on the issues, and he has been very responsive to the concerns of Federation members,” said Newby. “He is a strong voice for agriculture, and we are pleased to be able to honor him with this award.” Rogers, 54, was sworn in as representative for the 3rd Congressional District in January 2003. A
DECEMBER • WINTER 2011
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