Neighbors Magazine, February 2019

VOLUME 44,

NUMBER 2

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

February 2019

_____________________________________

Debra Davis, Editor Marlee Moore, Associate Editor Laura Unger, 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 Tim Whitley, Horton Joe Anders, Northport Phillip Hunter, Chelsea Joe Lambrecht, Wetumpka Meador Jones, Gallion Bill Cook, Montgomery Steve Stroud, Goshen Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Chris Carroll, Ariton Jo Ann B. Laney, Phenix City Garrett Dixon, Salem

10

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

Dixon Digs In For New Role

7

Cotton Keeping High-Tech Pace

10 Saddle Up Southern Style

7

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

15 Farm Bill Updates 16 Laney Ready To Lead 28 Biscuits And Gravy

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

On The Cover

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

28

Russell County’s Jo Ann B. Laney is the new chair of the Federation’s State Women’s Leadership Committee.

Photo by Debra Davis

www.AlfaFarmers.org A member of American Farm Bureau Federation FEBRUARY 2019

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

Dixon Digs In As Young Farmers Chairman State Young Farmers Committee Chair Garrett Dixon and wife Robin grow primarily cotton on their family's Lee County farm in the Salem community. They also raise Angus cattle on Dixon Farms.

By Marlee Moore

W

hen Garrett Dixon looks out on snowy fields in Lee County, he’s not just living in the land of cotton. The Salem farmer is cultivating an agriculturefocused future while honoring his family’s farming roots.

“I’m not sure why farmers have such an attachment to the land, but that connection is real and ingrained in us,” said the 27 year old. “If we weren’t connected to the land, difficult times would put many of us out of business.”

Dixon, who began farming on his own 10 years ago, is the Alabama Farmers Federation’s 2019 State Young Farmers Committee chair. He is also serving a one-year term as an ex officio member of the Federation’s state board of directors.

He was elected leader of the 10-person committee at the Federation’s annual meeting in December and said his goal is simple — to w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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FEBRUARY 2019

Clockwise from above: Garrett Dixon cranks the tender holding his cover crop seed; Lee County Farmers Federation (LCFF) sponsored a team at the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation Skeet Shoot. From left are state Rep. Joe Lovvorn, Dixon, Russell Miller and Coletan Henley; Dixon talks with LCFF board member Tom Ingram at the 2018 Commodity Organizational Conference.

foster leadership skills in young farmers across the state.

“When you look at the Federation’s state board, most got their start in Young Farmers,” said Dixon, who also serves as State Young Farmers Committee South Alabama At-Large representative.

“We have to invest in our future leaders so we can continue to serve the state’s farmers and agriculture industry.”

It’s an approach that worked locally in Lee County.

Dixon was one of a handful of Lee County Young Farmers when the group reorganized in 2014, and he consistently recruits new members, said wife Robin.

These days, Lee County boasts one of the most active committees in the state, said Federation Young Farmers Division Director Jennifer Christenberry. The group meets monthly, hosts outreach activities and won an Award of Excellence in 2018.

“Garrett is passionate about agriculture and loves people,” Christenberry said. “Those qualities will drive him as he leads the state committee in growing membership, developing leaders and hosting the Young Farmers FEBRUARY 2019

Conference in March.”

Dixon said he’s excited to work with the state committee and meet more young farmers across Alabama.

“We come from different backgrounds — from agribusiness to row crops to livestock,” he said.

“Meeting other young farmers is invaluable. We’re a small percent of the agriculture community, and we rely on each other to learn and develop new ideas.”

While in college, Dixon was Auburn University (AU) Young Farmers chairman. He graduated in 2014 sporting the same degree as Robin — animal sciences production management. The two met in an undergraduate class and married in 2017.

Robin is an agriscience teacher and FFA advisor at Smiths Station High School and said students are fascinated she married a farmer.

“They ask what my husband does, and when I say he’s a cotton farmer, they can’t believe it,” said the Florida native. “But I love tying into my classes what we do on the farm — growing a crop people use and wear every day.”

Dixon, whose grandfather and uncle grew row crops until the 5

early 2000s, began raising Angus cattle at age 17 before branching into soybean farming. Drought followed by torrential rainfall challenged Dixon in his first two growing seasons, leading him back to the drawing board — and cotton, his family’s traditional crop.

“Each year I bring additional parts of our farm back into cotton production as my acreage expands,” Dixon said. “We’re always looking to diversify our operation to ensure its success going forward.”

The Dixons share their passion for farming on social media, too, lending an insider’s perspective into life at Dixon Farms through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

They attend First Baptist Church of Opelika. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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Keeping Cotton King

Means Investing In Technology

Above: Gin manager Rich Lindsey of Cherokee Gin & Cotton Co. operates the new control panel that allows him to view cotton as it's processed. Right: Gin owners Nick and Freida McMichen and son Matt, and Rich and Richard Lindsey stand in the new facility.

By Debra Davis

T

he familiar hum of gins at Cherokee Gin & Cotton Co.’s new facility on U.S. Highway 411, will soon replace the sound of noisy construction equipment that began almost a year ago.

Expected to be operational by Feb. 1, the new gin located 5 miles east of Centre is part of the most technologically advanced system in the world, said gin manager Rich Lindsey.

“Our old gin is running right now and is located near downtown Centre,” he said. “At capacity, it can gin about 35 bales an hour. The new system, which features the GIN MANAGER manager software, will allow us to gin 50-plus bales an hour.”

Both gins will run through this harvest season before the old gin is sold for parts.

The new system is about more than speed. It’s also about

FEBRUARY 2019

efficiency, capacity and production of higher-quality cotton for farmer customers and merchants who buy the finished product, Lindsey added.

“The GIN MANAGER automation system is in other gins around the world, but those systems were added onto existing gins,” said 31-year-old Lindsey, a fourth-generation cotton farmer.

“Our fully automated system is 7

the first one built from the ground up using this technology. We can monitor the entire gin — what’s happening every step of the way — from a control panel.”

The system lets the operator see the cotton as it goes through a series of sophisticated cleaners, dryers and vacuums, allowing the controller to make adjustments that maximize the gin’s efficiency, Lindsey said. The new location is w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

an 82-acre site with more room for trucks, storage and shipping.

The old location had no room for bale storage, while the new facility can store up to 48,000 bales.

Additionally, cottonseed storage capacity will jump from 2,500 tons to 9,000 tons.

Lindsey and his father, former state Rep. Richard Lindsey, manage Lindsey Brother’s Inc. They are partners in Cherokee Gin & Cotton Co. with Jordan Cotton Inc., owned

by Nick and Freida McMichen.

All live in Cherokee County, near Centre.

“I’ve grown cotton all my life,” Richard said. “When I graduated high school in 1974, there were 13 gins in Cherokee County.

Now there’s only one, and our gin can process, bale, strap and wrap more cotton than all of the other previous 13 gins combined.”

Freida is proud of the history her family has with ginning cotton in Alabama. Built on her family’s property, the new gin is the fourth

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

Former state Rep. Richard Lindsey, a partner in the new gin, said the gin's basement allows adequate space for repairs and cleaning.

to stand there. The first was a steam-powered gin in the 1800s.

The new gin also is good news for area farmers. High-quality fiber achieved through advanced technology and cleaning systems at the new gin translates to better prices for farmers. The speed of ginning also helps farmers get paid quicker, since their paychecks are issued once their cotton is ginned.

“The old gin was good — in its day, it was great,” said Nick,

8

who also grows cotton and other row crops. “But an investment in technology will allow us to gin faster, better and more efficiently.

There are more cotton acres coming into production in our area of the country, and this will give us the ability to accommodate that growth.

“The U.S. has a reputation for producing the world's best cotton.

This gin was built around making the highest quality cotton.” n

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Continental Saddlery

Above from left: Continental Saddlery owners Oliver and Heike Dusterhoff travel to major reining discipline shows throughout the year to see the company's hand-crafted saddles in action. Continental saddles are made by a team of expert craftsmen in Ider; after being cut and embellished with patterns, the saddle leather is finished by hand. Saddle prices start at $1,850.

By Marlee Moore

A

top Sand Mountain in the town of Ider, madein-the-USA craftsmanship reigns supreme at Continental Saddlery — the reining authority for equine enthusiasts.

The company specializes in reining discipline saddles for horsemen that include trainers and professionals, even celebrities like William Shatner, a repeat customer who thanked Continental for his custom saddle in a 2016 Wall Street Journal article.

“A lot of people say reining is like figure skating for horses,” said Oliver Dusterhoff, a German native who owns Continental Saddlery with wife Heike. “You have a pattern to perform on horseback, and you get judged on that.”

Despite its name, reins hang loose in reining, and riders control the horse with their legs using pressure commands.

“If the saddle restricts the horse’s movements, it won’t perform maneuvers to get a good score,” Heike said.

After stints in Indiana and Georgia, Continental Saddlery found its home in DeKalb County 20 years ago, around the time Heike and Oliver — a former w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

certified public accountant and salesman, respectively — started managing the company. The couple assumed the business’s reins 10 years ago.

Continental Saddlery's approach is old-fashioned and time-tested. Its team of expert artisans crafts around 500 saddles a year and has worked in tandem nearly two decades.

Saddles are made for customers’ unique needs and tastes. Once the 100-percent-American leather is cut, craftsmen adorn the material with designs, usually florals or basket weave patterns. But Heike said some customers buck the trend and have requested bear claws, paws or copies of tattoos.

The leather is then finished; clips and trim are attached; and the pieces are hand-stitched around the tree, or foundation.

Oliver said it’s a tedious process requiring patience, heart and dedication from employees.

For reining riders like Josiane Gauthier, Continental 10

FEBRUARY 2019

saddles fit the bill to help connect the rider with its horse.

“It’s always been a challenge for me to find the right fit, and Continental did that for me,” said Gauthier, a National Reining Horse Association professional. “The flex tree helps mold to the horse’s back, and it’s been comfortable to execute what we need the horse to do.”

The Dusterhoffs travel the horse show circuit annually, observing how Continental Saddlery gear Hand-placed embellishments like performs in Oklahoma, clips and trim are some of the Texas and the Southeast. finishing touches on Continental saddles.

“I like going to horse shows and hearing how our saddles made a difference for people,” Heike said. “The saddle is a tool, so if we make a tool that helps them do their job, that’s awesome.”

Visit SimplySouthern.com and view episode 424 or go to ContinentalSaddlery.com. n

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FEBRUARY 2019

Women’s Leadership Conference Is April 3-5 In Birmingham

Public Notice

By Alabama Pork Producers And National Pork Board The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2020 National Pork Producers (Pork Act) Delegate Body will take place February 5, 2019 at 1 p.m., in conjunction with a Board of Directors meeting of the Alabama Pork Producers Association in the State Boardroom of the Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center at 300 Tallapoosa Street in Montgomery, Alabama during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Commodity Organization Meeting. All Alabama pork producers are invited to attend.

Any producer who is a resident of the state, at least 18 years old, is a producer of porcine animals or its representative, and has paid all assessments due, may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or participant in the election. All eligible producers are encouraged to bring with them a sales receipt proving that hogs were sold in their name and the checkoff deducted. For more information contact: Alabama Pork Producers, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, AL 36191-0001; telephone (334) 612-5181; email ghall@alfafarmers.org.

FEBRUARY 2019

humorist Sean Dietrich tells tales of the American South. Better known as Sean of the South, Dietrich’s columns are featured monthly in Neighbors magazine.

Additionally, Sidney Phelps of Bonnie Plants will share “Gardening Basics and More.”

Phelps is the gardening reporter for “Simply Southern TV.” The Women’s Leadership Conference joins with Alabama Farm-City for the annual Farm-City Awards Luncheon April 4.

Outstanding students are honored in poster, essay and multimedia contests, and Alabama’s Farm of Distinction is named.

Outstanding Farm-City committees from across the state also will be recognized. Dietrich returns to entertain with stories, humor and music at the closing banquet. n

accessories vendors. Regional sessions follow before Federation President Jimmy Parnell welcomes attendees to the Magic City.

Author and Cause Matters Corp. founder Michele Payn will

then encourage ag advocacy during opening banquet remarks.

A legislative update from Federation Governmental & Agricultural Programs Department staff kicks off Day 2, followed by workshops. Payn's workshop will focus on “Food Truths, From Farm-to-Table,” while writer and

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ood truths, gardening tips and Southern stories will take center stage during the Alabama Farmers Federation Women’s Leadership Conference in Birmingham April 3-5. Registration closes March 1 at AlfaFarmers.org.

Federation Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Earwood said the conference allows leaders to cultivate ideas to drive county activities.

“These ladies are the driving force of many activities that support and enrich their communities,” Earwood said. “Our Women’s Leadership Conference lets them refuel and encourages them to better serve their counties.”

The conference kicks off with pop tab collections for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama, massage therapy and shopping with jewelry, décor and

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FEBRUARY 2019

Farm Bill

Weighs Heavy On Planting Decisions

By Jeff Helms

A

s Alabama farmers prepare for spring planting season, the Alabama Farmers Federation says changes in the 2018 farm bill could impact their decisions.

“For the first time in 30 years, Congress passed the farm bill in the year the previous bill expired,” said Federation National Legislative Programs Director Mitt Walker. “This gives farmers an opportunity to evaluate changes to farm programs and make informed decisions based on markets, weather and federal farm policy.”

Improvements in marketing loan rates for certain crops could affect planting intentions.

Marketing loans allow growers to use their crops as collateral after harvest to take advantage of seasonal price changes. The farm bill made the first meaningful change to loan rates in over a decade. The rate for corn increased 35 cents per bushel or 12 percent, while the soybean rate increased $1.20 a bushel or 24 percent. These loans not only improve cash flow but can be an important tool in risk management because farmers may forfeit their crops without penalty when the market price falls below the loan rate.

Adjustments also were made to the Price Loss Coverage

FEBRUARY 2019

(PLC) program, which provides commodity-specific protection for farmers, as well as Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC), which safeguards farm revenue for covered commodities.

In the 2018 farm bill, PLC reference prices are allowed to “float” higher (up to 115 percent) based on long-term average market prices. For example, the American Farm Bureau Federation said because of high prices in 2010-12, the soybean PLC reference price would have been $9.66 per bushel for both the 2015/16 and 2016/17 marketing years – triggering program payments of 71 cents per bushel and 19 cents per bushel, respectively.

The change in reference prices also benefits ARC program calculations. Meanwhile, ARC yield factors were increased from 70 percent of a county’s historic yield to no less than 80 percent. Data from USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) crop insurance program will be the primary source of yield data as opposed to USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service surveys. This change is designed to improve the integrity of the ARC program by using an average of county-level crop yields reported to RMA. One of the most significant changes in the farm bill is the 15

ability for farmers to update yields.

“Production gains in recent years have created holes in traditional farm safety net programs,” Walker said. “By updating yields, potential program payments will be based on more realistic production numbers.”

Farmers will have an opportunity to update PLC program yields based on their 2013-17 crops, with a floor equal to 75 percent of the county average crop yield. The yield update will be effective for the 2020 crop year.

The farm bill gives producers greater flexibility in selecting programs to meet individual needs.

Under the 2014 farm bill, farmers had a one-time option of choosing the PLC or ARC program. The new bill allows growers to first re-elect ARC or PLC coverage in 2019 on a commodity-by-commodity basis, effective for the 2019 and 2020 crop years. Then, beginning in 2021, growers will have an opportunity to make an annual re-election of ARC or PLC for the three remaining crop years.

“This flexibility allows growers to more frequently choose which risk management tool meets the needs of their farm and their crops for the marketing year,” Walker said.

For more information about farm bill changes, visit FB.org. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Volunteer Spirit Laney Excited To Lead

Larry and Jo Ann B. Laney of Russell County have spent much of their 47-year marriage attending Alabama Farmers Federation events. Jo Ann was elected State Women’s Leadership Committee chair at the organization’s 97th annual meeting in December.

By Debra Davis

A

self-proclaimed professional volunteer, Jo Ann B. Laney brings a pile of passion to whatever she takes on. That includes her new role as chair of the Alabama Farmers Federation State Women’s Leadership Committee.

Laney was elected chair during the Federation’s 97th annual meeting in Montgomery Dec. 3.

Her Federation connection dates back 47 years to when she and husband Larry tied the knot and settled down near his boyhood home in Russell County’s Crawford community.

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“I’m excited about the year ahead and honored to have this opportunity to serve as chair,” said Laney. “I love farming and agriculture, and I love the Federation. I grew up in a military family, so I lived in several places around the country. Larry was born and raised here, and his mom and dad were always involved in the Federation. Even though I worked most of the time since we’ve been married, I followed my motherin-law, JoAnne C. Laney, to lots of annual Women’s Leadership Conferences and to different contests and Federation meetings.

It just became part of who I am.”

Those trips and other 16

involvement with the Federation eventually led Laney to leadership roles. In addition to serving on the Russell County Farmers Federation board of directors, she is secretarytreasurer of the group and is the county’s Women’s Leadership Committee chair. Her one-year term as state committee chair includes serving as an ex-officio member of the Federation’s state board of directors.

Federation Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Earwood said 2019 is sure to be an exciting year with Laney leading the way.

“Jo Ann and the other state committee members are dedicated to promoting agriculture and providing educational programs across Alabama,” Earwood said.

Laney began advocating for agriculture before retiring from W.C. Bradley Co. in 2007. Her husband is a retired educator, and they love farm life — particularly horses and cattle.

The couple run a successful horse boarding business, with many clients who are military families from nearby Fort Benning, Georgia.

They also have a herd of beef cattle and sell hay to cattlemen and equestrians.

“As chair of the Women’s Leadership Committee, I want to see county committees across the state grow and become more active,” Laney said. “It is a great organization, and we work on behalf of the best people in the world — farmers!”

Laney has a busy volunteer calendar. She is president of the Russell County Cattlemen’s Association and helps with the county’s annual special needs FEBRUARY 2019

rodeo. She is an active member of the Crawford Community Park Committee, which restored an old Masonic lodge, transforming it into a community center and building a park for area children.

“The community park really is something our community is proud of,” she said. “It has a quarter-mile walking trail and hosts market days where vegetables and crafts are sold. It’s sort of like an old-timey meeting spot for people to gather.”

Laney’s favorite hobbies are using her embroidery machine and caring for a flock of fancy chickens that produce enough eggs to share with friends.

Most of all, she loves spending time with her family. That includes a tradition of Sunday dinner at home with their sons, Joshua and Nathan, their daughters in-law and four grandchildren. n Laney said she loves tending to her flock of fancy chickens and caring for horses boarded on her Russell County farm.

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By Lois Chaplin

S

ometime in February or early March, our neighborhoods and roadsides blush in a magenta that coincides with spring fever.

That means it’s a perfect time to add one or more of those pretty magenta redbud trees to the landscape — not just because it’s early and beautiful, but because the trees are tough, well adapted and provide food and shelter for native birds and bees.

The Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis) grows wild from Florida to Ontario and west to the southern Great Plains. In Alabama, the native tree likes the edge of the woods, which provides a good hint where to plant it in the landscape. This tree needs sun for good flowering but also grows well where it gets morning or afternoon shade.

In the woods, redbud often forms a grove, another hint how one might use it in a garden.

Instead of a single tree, several planted close together increase the trees’ benefit and show.

Although it adapts to any reasonable space, a redbud will grow 15 to 20 feet tall and equally

wide if possible. It also adapts well to various soils as long as the soil drains well.

Because it’s one of the first native trees to bloom in the spring, redbud blossoms provide an early source of all-important nectar and pollen for bees. The redbud tree appears on lists of recommended plants published by groups advocating for birds, bees and wildlife. Redbud is browsed by deer, so keep that in mind depending on whether you want to attract deer or keep them away!

Redbud flowers sprout on short stalks up and down the stems, branches and even the trunk, so the tree looks sculptural when in bloom. Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, gives the blossoms a lemon-like acidic flavor suited for making jelly. You can also pickle unopened buds to use like capers or use the blossoms to add a bright, fresh taste and color to salads. Never eat from a tree growing in a lawn or landscape treated with weed killers or other pesticides. Some folks also cut flowering branches as they begin to open to use in flower arrangements.

Soon after flowering, heartshaped leaves appear. At first, the leaves have a tinge of maroon that quickly turns green. Redbud leaves host the elusive Henry’s Elfin — or woodland elfin — butterfly.

Because redbud is a member of the pea family, seedpods forming from the blooms dangle through the summer like bean pods from the branches. These are a favorite food of the northern bobwhite quail and are eaten by songbirds such as cardinals and chickadees.

The seedpods turn brown in late summer and hang brittle until winter weather or wildlife remove them.

Look for redbud trees for sale at nurseries this spring. Trees develop a taproot, so avoid moving them once planted.

Read the plant tags because selections vary in size and even foliage and bloom colors. Enjoy your new redbuds. The bees and birds will, too. n Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

FIND MORE SAVINGS ONLINE • ALAFARM.COM w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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FEBRUARY 2019

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Double points with Alfa.

Farm Bureau® Member Rewards Mastercard®

Two ways to earn double.

Earn double points1 when you use our card to pay your Alabama Farmers Federation membership dues and insurance premiums.

Plus, spend $6,000 a year, and we’ll pay your Alfa membership renewal dues.2 Contact your local Alfa agent to apply!

Purchases made with other Alfa Member Benefitis and services may not qualify for this promotion. 2Based on purchases made in the calendar year that ends 60 days prior to membership renewal month. Balance Transfers and Cash Advances are not included.

Eligible purchases mean any signature or pin-based, online, phone or mail-order purchase made with the Farm Bureau Member Rewards Mastercard. Offer excludes Cash Advances, Balance Transfers, credits and returns. Points expire after four full years.

Program may change or be cancelled at anytime. Triple reward points on qualifying transactions based on merchant code (5411, 5499, 5541, 5542, 5812, 5813, 5814), up to $1,500 quarterly. Credit Card plastic design may vary based on member’s qualification. See complete Terms and Conditions for the Farm Bureau Member Rewards Mastercard and Member Rewards Program at https://www.farmbureaubank.com/CreditCards. Farm Bureau, FB, and the FB National Logo are registered service marks owned by, and used by Farm Bureau Bank FSB under license from, the American Farm Bureau Federation. 07.2018 1

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M

'BACCA PICKERS

y mother’s wedding ring was aluminum,” she says, showing me a ring.

The gray band is not a perfect circle, the metal is too cheap to hold its shape.

“I wish I had more pictures of Mother when she was a kid,” she goes on. “They say she was a knockout.”

A knockout and a tobacco picker.

She and her sisters picked ‘bacca during harvest seasons near Butler County. They’d been doing it since childhood.

They worked long hours, earned pennies, lived in bunk-cabins, and made new friends. Think: summer camp for poor folks.

By age seventeen, she was still picking each season. On weekends, she and her girlfriends hiked into the woods with the other workers. They lit bonfires, laughed. Some folks brought instruments and jelly-jars. Others wore Sunday shoes.

There she met a skinny boy. He caught her eye. There was something about him. He asked her to dance. She said yes.

It didn’t take long to know him— they both worked in the drying barn.

She’d string blanket-sized leaves onto pine rods. He’d climb the rafters, hanging them.

He was her first boy. For two summers they kissed. And two summers they picked side by side.

When he asked her to marry, her answer was no surprise.

Then, the worst.

Only one day before their

courthouse wedding, she and her sisters went into town to buy a skirtsuit for the ceremony. She walked up a flight of steps, carrying her sister’s baby. She slipped.

She dropped the infant on the pavement. The baby was fine, but she wasn’t. She busted her neck. They sent her to Tallahassee. Doctors said she might never walk again.

They say he refused to leave her bedside. Not even for food.

After staying motionless for weeks, her temper wore thin. She hollered, told him to leave. She said he deserved a girl in good health, not someone who might need a wheelchair.

He said nothing to her. Then he left.

She watched him go and did not call for him. They say she cried.

That evening, while her sister held vigil, a skinny boy came waltzing through the door wearing a ratty suit.

He carried a bouquet. He had the preacher with him.

And two cheap rings.

By now, this story practically tells itself. She made a full recovery and later whipped out five kids who all found success in life — except for the youngest, who became a guitar player.

She loved him until her end. He loved her until his.

“This ring was Daddy’s,” her daughter says sliding it on her own finger. “I wish I had both rings, for my kids.”

But that will never happen.

Because her mother is still wearing hers. n

Legal Notice

To: Directors, officers, delegates and members of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association You are hereby notified that the directors of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association, in accordance with Section 1, Article IV, of the By-Laws of the Association, has scheduled its annual meeting as follows:

Time: 11:15 a.m. Thursday,

February 7, 2019

Place: Volunteer Building,

National Peanut Festival

Fairgrounds, 231 South

Dothan, Alabama

It’s time to reserve strawberry plugs for October delivery!

• 50 plugs per tray • Plugs have an intact root ball • Plugs establish quickly

Best of all Plant plugs in October

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.

FEBRUARY 2019

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and harvest sweet strawberries in the Spring!

FREE CATALOG

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Net Gains

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

WHEAT & FEED GRAIN PRODUCERS

GrainsofTruth.net

Alabama Forestry Commission County/Regional Directory Helping Alabama landowners protect and sustain their forests is one of the top priorities of the Alabama Forestry Commission. To make it convenient to reach our staff, we've listed below the direct contact numbers and emails of AFC employees in each county. Current AFC county office telephone numbers will be discontinued in the near future.

There is a complete employee directory on the agency website at www.forestry.alabama.gov

To report a wildfire or request a burn permit, please call 1 (800) 392-5679.

Chambers County | 101 Jane Place | LaFayette AL 36862 • Matthew Lowe, Forester | (256) 610-0005 Matthew.Lowe@forestry.alabama.gov • Jimbo Robinson, Forestry Specialist | (334) 321-1903 James.Robinson@forestry.alabama.gov • James ‘Moto’ Williams, Forestry Specialist (334) 869-0524 | Moto.Williams@forestry.alabama.gov

Autauga County | 2226 Hwy 14 West Suite I | Autaugaville AL 36003 • Matthew Sorrells, Forester | (334) 239-5258 Matthew.Sorrells@forestry.alabama.gov Baldwin County | 41261 State Hwy 225 | Bay Minette AL 36507 • Jason Barrett, Forestry Specialist | (251) 331-0179 Jason.Barrett@forestry.alabama.gov • Rickey Fields, Forester | (251) 239-0520 Richard.Fields@forestry.alabama.gov • Billy Franklin, Communications Tech | (251) 363-3066 Billy.Franklin@forestry.alabama.gov • Ryan Johnson, Forest Ranger | (251) 331-1245 Ryan.Johnson@forestry.alabama.gov • William Robertson Jr., Forest Ranger | (251) 202-1052 William.Robertson@forestry.alabama.gov • Robert Trimble, Aircraft Pilot | (251) 212-1117 Robert.Trimble@forestry.alabama.gov

Cherokee County | 1420 East Main St | Centre AL 35960 • Keith Niedermeier, Forestry Specialist | (256) 459-1000 Keith.Niedermeier@forestry.alabama.gov • Matt Woodfin, Forester | (256) 563-0021 Matt.Woodfin@forestry.alabama.gov Chilton County | 221 County Rd 423 | Clanton AL 35045 • Brian Smith, Forester | (205) 312-1329 Brian.Smith@forestry.alabama.gov Choctaw County | 1715 East Pushmataha St | Butler AL 36904 • Lemoral Coleman, Forest Ranger | (205) 312-1071 Lemoral.Coleman@forestry.alabama.gov • Allan Johnson, Forestry Specialist | (251) 231-0551 Curtis.Johnson@forestry.alabama.gov

Barbour County | 431 Hwy 51 South | Clayton AL 36016 • Zachary Ellis, Forest Ranger | (334) 828-1041 Zachary.Ellis@forestry.alabama.gov • Perry Pritchett, Forester | (334) 726-4146 Perry.Pritchett@forestry.alabama.gov

Clarke County | 14833 Old Hwy 5 South | Grove Hill AL 36451 • Jacob Brown, Forester | (251) 231-0569 Jacob.Brown@forestry.alabama.gov • Kevin Crawford, Forestry Specialist | (251) 231-0571 Benjamin.Crawford@forestry.alabama.gov • Benji Elmore, Regional Forester | (251) 244-0046 Benji.Elmore@forestry.alabama.gov • Jonathan Heath, Forest Ranger | (334) 456-1157 Jonathan.Heath@forestry.alabama.gov

Bibb County | 9712 Hwy 5 | Brent AL 35034 • Sammy Holdsambeck, Forestry Specialist | (205) 316-0023 Sammy.Holdsambeck@forestry.alabama.gov • Joe Small, Forestry Specialist | (334) 239-5941 Joe.Small@forestry.alabama.gov Blount County | 49686 US Hwy 231 | Oneonta AL 35121 • Kenneth Cain, Forest Ranger | (205) 446-0352 Kenneth.Cain@forestry.alabama.gov • Jon Tucker, Forester | (205) 237-4979 Jon.Tucker@forestry.alabama.gov

Clay County | 75 McCrary St | Lineville AL 36266 • Josh Benefield, Forestry Specialist | (256) 618-1149 Josh.Benefield@forestry.alabama.gov • Nick Jordan, Fire Specialist | (256) 618-1645 Nicklas.Jordan@forestry.alabama.gov

Bullock County | 974 Hicks Industrial Blvd | Union Springs AL 36089 • Drew Metzler, Forester | (334) 540-3136 Drew.Metzler@forestry.alabama.gov • Mark Richardson, Forestry Specialist | (334) 239-5860 Mark.Richardson@forestry.alabama.gov

Cleburne County | 7315 Hwy 78 | Heflin AL 36264 • James Barker, Forestry Specialist | (256) 201-5017 James.Barker@forestry.alabama.gov • Richard McCain, Forestry Specialist | (256) 419-1096 Richard.McCain@forestry.alabama.gov • Paul Williams, Forester | (256) 846-1078 Paul.Williams@forestry.alabama.gov

Butler County | 59 Firetower Rd | Greenville AL 36037 • Jeremy Lowery, Forester | (334) 674-1082 Jeremy.Lowery@forestry.alabama.gov • Jeff Owens, Forestry Specialist | (334) 525-0298 Jeff.Owens@forestry.alabama.gov • Steve Perdue, Forestry Specialist | (334) 525-0393 Steve.Perdue@forestry.alabama.gov

Coffee County | 1155 East McKinnon St | New Brockton AL 36351 • Adam Bowers, Forester | (334) 258-1005 Adam.Bowers@forestry.alabama.gov • Greg Piland, Forestry Specialist | (334) 248-1021 Johnny.Piland@forestry.alabama.gov • Keith Stephens, Forestry Specialist | (334) 470-0253 Keith.Stephens@forestry.alabama.gov

Calhoun County | 3985 Ala Hwy 21 North | Jacksonville AL 36265 • Brad Hanvey, Forest Ranger | (205) 354-9027 Brad.Hanvey@forestry.alabama.gov • Joe Hartley, Forest Ranger | (256) 419-1042 Joe.Hartley@forestry.alabama.gov • Steven Jones, Forester | (256) 846-0659 Steven.Jones@forestry.alabama.gov • Gene Lyons, Pelham Range Coordinator | (334) 201-0637 Gene.Lyons@forestry.alabama.gov FEBRUARY 2019

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Colbert County | 909 Geo Wallace Blvd Suite A | Tuscumbia AL 35674 • Johnnie Everitt, Forester | 256-248-5204 Johnnie.Everitt@forestry.alabama.gov • Daniel Goggans, Forestry Specialist | (256) 320-0005 Daniel.Goggans@forestry.alabama.gov

Etowah County | 1511 Crudrup Rd | Attalla AL 35954 • Robert Brown, Forester | (256) 563-0323 Robert.Brown@forestry.alabama.gov • Shane Woodham, Forestry Specialist | (256) 563-0321 Shane.Woodham@forestry.alabama.gov

Conecuh County | 1473 Owassa Rd | Evergreen AL 36401 • Jerry Calhoun, Forestry Specialist | (251) 238-1117 Jerry.Calhoun@forestry.alabama.gov • Ryan Holland, Forester | (334) 850-5666 Ryan.Holland@forestry.alabama.gov

Fayette County | 5434 Hwy 171 | Fayette AL 35555 • Jeff Bradford, Forestry Specialist | (205) 561-4116 Jeff.Bradford@forestry.alabama.gov • Deron Lacey, Forestry Specialist | (205) 210-1422 Jerry.Lacey@forestry.alabama.gov

Coosa County | 228 Coosa County Rd 157 | Rockford AL 35136 • Brad Dunham, Biologist | (256) 397-4336 Bradley.Dunham@forestry.alabama.gov • Ryan Dunham, Forest Ranger | (256) 401-3137 Ryan.Dunham@forestry.alabama.gov • Ricky Porch, Forestry Specialist | (205) 294-2954 Richard.Porch@forestry.alabama.gov

Franklin County | 1004 Hwy 36 | Russellville AL 35653 • James Daniel, Forestry Specialist | (256) 246-1567 James.Daniel@forestry.alabama.gov • Tyler Pugh, Forester | (334) 850-3299 tyler.pugh@forestry.alabama.gov Geneva County | 3670 Enterprise Rd | Geneva AL 36340 • Stephen Bridges, Forest Ranger | (334) 818-0500 Stephen.Bridges@forestry.alabama.gov • Chris Cotton, Forester | (334) 726-4145 Christopher.Cotton@forestry.alabama.gov • Dearl Driggers, Forestry Specialist | (334) 248-1410 Dearl.Driggers@forestry.alabama.gov • David Hayes, Forest Ranger | (334) 248-1415 David.Hayes@forestry.alabama.gov • Jeffrey Hogan, Forest Ranger | (334) 248-1057 Jeffrey.Hogan@forestry.alabama.gov • Lester Williams, Forestry Specialist | (334) 248-1404 Lester.Williams@forestry.alabama.gov

Covington County | 1803 Dr M L K Jr Expy | Andalusia AL 36420 • Travis Chesser, Forestry Specialist | (334) 818-0544 Travis.Chesser@forestry.alabama.gov Crenshaw County | 2338 N Glenwood Rd | Goshen AL 36035 • Chris Jones, Forest Ranger | (334) 403-0025 Christopher.Jones@forestry.alabama.gov • Nick Richardson, Forest Ranger | (334) 304-5178 Nick.Richardson@forestry.alabama.gov Cullman County | 1527 Sportsmans Lake Rd NW | Cullman AL 35055 • Jason Downs, Forestry Specialist | (256) 255-3529 Michael.Downs@forestry.alabama.gov • Albert Mayo, Forestry Specialist | (205) 288-6946 Albert.Mayo@forestry.alabama.gov

Greene County | 2385 County Road 167 | Eutaw AL 35462 • Heath Dorman, Forest Ranger | (205) 210-1132 Heath.Dorman@forestry.alabama.gov • Doug Fulghum, Forester | (334) 239-5118 Douglas.Fulghum@forestry.alabama.gov

Dale County | 1233 W Roy Parker Rd | Ozark AL 36360 • Nick Granger, Forester | (334) 818-1194 Nicholas.Granger@forestry.alabama.gov • Lowell Helms, Forestry Specialist | (334) 432-0028 John.Helms@forestry.alabama.gov • James Payne, Forester | (334) 726-4144 James.Payne@forestry.alabama.gov

Hale County | 25653 Hwy 69 | Greensboro AL 36744 • Ethan Barrett, Forestry Specialist | (334) 850-8127 Ethan.Barrett@forestry.alabama.gov • Scott Hallman, Forest Ranger | (205) 361-6825 Scott.Hallman@forestry.alabama.gov

Dallas County | 7577 Ala Hwy 22 | Selma AL 36701 • Jeffery Baity, Forestry Specialist | (334) 410-2245 Jeffery.Baity@forestry.alabama.gov

Henry County | 1462 US Hwy 431 South | Abbeville AL 36310 • Huey Jones, Forestry Specialist | (334) 726-6445 Huey.Jones@forestry.alabama.gov • Justin McGhee, Forest Ranger | (334) 575-1033 Justin.McGhee@forestry.alabama.gov

DeKalb County | 151 14th Street NE | Fort Payne AL 35967 • Jon Burt, Forest Ranger | (256) 563-0106 Jon.Burt@forestry.alabama.gov • Daniel Green, Forester | (256) 516-8731 Daniel.Green@forestry.alabama.gov • Jeff Keener, Forestry Specialist | (256) 254-1000 William.Keener@forestry.alabama.gov

Houston County | 4855 Hodgesville Rd | Dothan AL 36301 • Brady Dunn, Forestry Specialist | (334) 619-1262 Brady.Dunn@forestry.alabama.gov Jackson County | 288-A Shelby Dr | Scottsboro AL 35769 • Bruce Bradford, Forestry Specialist | (256) 647-2001 Bruce.Bradford@forestry.alabama.gov • Lynn Washington, Forester | (256) 382-1527 Lynn.Washington@forestry.alabama.gov

Elmore County | 2181 Cong W L Dickinson Dr | Montgomery, AL 36109 • Brian Frederick, Forester | (334) 956-9095 Brian.Frederick@forestry.alabama.gov • Dylan Garmon, Forest Ranger | (334) 540-9728 Dylan.Garmon@forestry.alabama.gov • Brigetta Giles, Regional Forester | (334) 431-0992 Brigetta.Giles@forestry.alabama.gov

Jefferson County | 6650 Old Hwy 31 North | Gardendale AL 35071 • Jason Dockery, Regional Forester | (256) 531-0013 JasonR.Dockery@forestry.alabama.gov • Juan Merriweather, Forester | (334) 410-0670 Juan.Merriweather@forestry.alabama.gov • Mary Burton Self, Regional Administrative Asst. | (205) 631-2552 Mary.Burton@forestry.alabama.gov • Mary Claire Smith, Forester | (205) 842-1308 MaryClaire.Smith@forestry.alabama.gov • Coleen Vansant, WUI North Coordinator | (256) 347-1785 Coleen.Vansant@forestry.alabama.gov

Escambia County | 2430 Ridge Rd | Brewton AL 36426 • Thomas Davis, Forester | (251) 212-0171 ThomasD.Davis@forestry.alabama.gov • Nancy Givens, Regional Administrative Asst. | (251) 867-7798 Nancy.Givens@forestry.alabama.gov • Donnie Odom, Forest Ranger | (251) 238-0208 Donald.Odom@forestry.alabama.gov

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FEBRUARY 2019

Lamar County | 48878 Hwy 17 | Sulligent AL 35586 • Karl Byrd, Fire Specialist | (205) 361-8016 Karl.Byrd@forestry.alabama.gov • Jonathan Norton, Forest Ranger | (205) 431-8005 Jonathan.Norton@forestry.alabama.gov

Marion County | 164 Smokey Bear Rd | Hamilton AL 35570 • Joel Bartlett, Forestry Specialist | (205) 707-1001 joel.bartlett@forestry.alabama.gov • Robert Clement, Forester | (205) 707-1009 Robert.Clement@forestry.alabama.gov

Lauderdale County | 1212 Waterloo Rd | Florence, AL 35630 • Chris Brewer, Forestry Specialist | (256) 246-1568 Christopher.Brewer@forestry.alabama.gov • Tyler Coffman, Forester | (256) 627-4120 Tyler.Coffman@forestry.alabama.gov • Phillip Montgomery, Aircraft Pilot | (256) 260-3576 Phillip.Montgomery@forestry.alabama.gov

Marshall County | PO Box 303 | Guntersville AL 35976 • Michael Williams, Forester | (256) 264-5613 MichaelH.Williams@forestry.alabama.gov • Samuel Young, Forest Ranger | (256) 293-9419 Samuel.Young@forestry.alabama.gov Mobile County | 3572 Fire Tower Rd | Semmes AL 36575 • Jacob Chennault, Forestry Worker | (251) 504-4865 Jacob.Chennault@forestry.alabama.gov • Ronnie Grider, Forestry Specialist | (251) 331-2992 Ronnie.Grider@forestry.alabama.gov • Ken Leslie, Forester | (251) 331-3829 Ken.Leslie@forestry.alabama.gov • Richard Miller, Forester | (251) 331-3830 Richard.Miller@forestry.alabama.gov

Lawrence County | 1109 W Market St Suite F | Athens, AL 35611 • David Bullion, Forestry Specialist | (256) 262-2507 David.Bullion@forestry.alabama.gov • Doug Ezzell, Forester | (256) 262-2501 Doug.Ezzell@forestry.alabama.gov • Greg Wood, VFA Coordinator | (205) 288-3897 Gregory.Wood@forestry.alabama.gov

Monroe County | 887 Veterans Ave | Monroeville AL 36460 • Pam Bradley, Regional Administrative Asst. | (251) 743-2350 Pamela.Bradley@forestry.alabama.gov • April Hall, Forester | (251) 302-9520 April.Hall@forestry.alabama.gov • Roy Maye, Forestry Specialist | (334) 818-1192 Roy.Maye@forestry.alabama.gov

Lee County | 1696 US Hwy 29 North | Auburn AL 36830 • Gary Braxton, Forestry Specialist | (334) 321-7555 Gary.Braxton@forestry.alabama.gov • Andy Guy, Forester | (334) 321-8267 Andy.Guy@forestry.alabama.gov • Matt McCollough, Forester | (334) 674-1081 Matthew.McCollough@forestry.alabama.gov • Dakota Sumpter, Forestry Worker | (334) 734-9715 Dakota.Sumpter@forestry.alabama.gov

Montgomery County | 11261 US Hwy 331 | Montgomery AL 36105 • Michael King, Fire Specialist | (334) 464-5214 Michael.King@forestry.alabama.gov • Walter Nolan, Forestry Specialist | (334) 239-5942 Walter.Nolan@forestry.alabama.gov • Paul Stuckey, Forester | (334) 850-3995 Paul.Stuckey@forestry.alabama.gov • Adam Worthington, Forestry Specialist | (334) 239-5834 Adam.Worthington@forestry.alabama.gov

Limestone County | 1109 W Market St Suite F | Athens, AL 35611 • David Bullion, Forestry Specialist | (256) 262-2507 David.Bullion@forestry.alabama.gov • Doug Ezzell, Forester | (256) 262-2501 Doug.Ezzell@forestry.alabama.gov • Greg Wood, VFA Coordinator | (205) 288-3897 Gregory.Wood@forestry.alabama.gov

Morgan County | 4208 Hwy 31 South | Decatur AL 35603 • Vincent Barrios, Forestry Specialist | (256) 565-6283 Vincent.Barrios@forestry.alabama.gov • David Brock, Communications Tech | (334) 414-3932 David.Brock@forestry.alabama.gov • Terry Ezzell, Regional Forester | (256) 248-5206 Terry.Ezzell@forestry.alabama.gov • Robert Maddox, Forester | (256) 260-3646 Robert.Maddox@forestry.alabama.gov • Monica McCravy, Regional Administrative Asst. | (256) 350-1637 Monica.McCravy@forestry.alabama.gov

Lowndes County | 11261 US Hwy 331 | Montgomery AL 36105 • Michael King, Fire Specialist | (334) 464-5214 Michael.King@forestry.alabama.gov • Walter Nolan, Forestry Specialist | (334) 239-5942 Walter.Nolan@forestry.alabama.gov • Paul Stuckey, Forester | (334) 850-3995 Paul.Stuckey@forestry.alabama.gov • Adam Worthington, Forestry Specialist | (334) 239-5834 Adam.Worthington@forestry.alabama.gov Macon County | 1696 US Hwy 29 North | Auburn AL 36830 • Gary Braxton, Forestry Specialist | (334) 321-7555 Gary.Braxton@forestry.alabama.gov • Andy Guy, Forester | (334) 321-8267 Andy.Guy@forestry.alabama.gov • Matt McCollough, Forester | (334) 674-1081 Matthew.McCollough@forestry.alabama.gov • Dakota Sumpter, Forestry Worker | (334) 734-9715 Dakota.Sumpter@forestry.alabama.gov

Perry County | 1900 Turner Memorial Hwy | Marion AL 36756 • Bill DeYampert, Forestry Specialist | (334) 247-2035 Bill.DeYampert@forestry.alabama.gov • Eddie Dozier, Forest Ranger | (334) 327-2618 Eddie.Dozier@forestry.alabama.gov • Cedric Hudson, Forester | (334) 410-2253 Cedric.Hudson@forestry.alabama.gov Pickens County | 12481 Hwy 86 W | Carrollton AL 35447 • Tim Browning, Forester | (205) 361-5999 Tim.Browning@forestry.alabama.gov • J.R. Harbison, Forester | (205) 463-0522 John.Harbison@forestry.alabama.gov • Chuck McDaniel, Forestry Specialist | (205) 373-4013 Charles.McDaniel@forestry.alabama.gov

Madison County | PO Box 303 | Guntersville AL 35976 • Michael Williams, Forester | (256) 264-5613 MichaelH.Williams@forestry.alabama.gov • Samuel Young, Forest Ranger | (256) 293-9419 Samuel.Young@forestry.alabama.gov Marengo County | 20540 US Hwy 43 | Linden AL 36748 • Billy Carlisle, Fire Specialist | (334) 850-8011 Billy.Carlisle@forestry.alabama.gov • Jim Dixon, Forestry Specialist | (334) 422-1010 Jim.Dixon@forestry.alabama.gov • Bayne Moore, Forester | (251) 589-2035 Bayne.Moore@forestry.alabama.gov FEBRUARY 2019

Pike County | 2338 N Glenwood Rd | Goshen AL 36035 • Chris Jones, Forest Ranger | (334) 403-0025 Christopher.Jones@forestry.alabama.gov • Nick Richardson, Forest Ranger | (334) 304-5178 Nick.Richardson@forestry.alabama.gov 25

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

Randolph County | 60 Hillcrest Ave | Wedowee AL 36278 • Ryan Prince, Biologist | (205) 288-6928 Ryan.Prince@forestry.alabama.gov • Charles Wise, Forester | (256) 846-1083 Charles.Wise@forestry.alabama.gov

Winston County | 225 Coats St | Double Springs AL 35553 • Johnna Franks, Forestry Specialist | (205) 300-6272 Johnna.Franks@forestry.alabama.gov • Casey Hammack, Forest Ranger | (205) 272-3013 Casey.Hammack@forestry.alabama.gov

Russell County | 4735 Hwy 431 South | Seale AL 36875 • Scott Farmer, Forestry Specialist | (334) 321-7538 Ronald.Farmer@forestry.alabama.gov • Ashley Haden, Forestry Specialist | (334) 321-7566 Ashley.Haden@forestry.alabama.gov Shelby County | 6650 Old Hwy 31 North | Gardendale AL 35071 • Juan Merriweather, Forester | (334) 410-0670 Juan.Merriweather@forestry.alabama.gov • Mary Claire Smith, Forester | (205) 842-1308 MaryClaire.Smith@forestry.alabama.gov St Clair County | 18909 US Hwy 411 | Springville AL 35146 • Tyler Givens, Forester | (205) 684-2057 Tyler.Givens@forestry.alabama.gov • Scott Sweatt, Forestry Specialist | (205) 288-2074 Scott.Sweatt@forestry.alabama.gov Sumter County | 320 MLK Parkway W | Livingston AL 35470 • Johnny Beville, Forest Ranger | (205) 463-0011 Johnny.Beville@forestry.alabama.gov Talladega County | 425 Ala Hwy 275 | Talladega AL 35160 • Aaron Milstead, Forester | (256) 453-4950 Aaron.Milstead@forestry.alabama.gov • Jonathan Neville, Forest Ranger | (256) 299-0528 Jonathan.Neville@forestry.alabama.gov Tallapoosa County | 21070 Hwy 280 | Dadeville AL 36853 • Andy Cotney, Forestry Specialist | (256) 373-1028 Andy.Cotney@forestry.alabama.gov • David Kelly, Forester | (256) 397-4337 David.Kelly@forestry.alabama.gov • James Yarbrough, Forestry Specialist | (256) 373-1029 James.Yarbrough@forestry.alabama.gov Tuscaloosa County | 8115 McFarland Blvd | Northport AL 35476 • Ruth Garner, Forestry Worker | (205) 561-4123 Ruth.Garner@forestry.alabama.gov • Jim Junkin, Forester | (205) 561-4068 Jim.Junkin@forestry.alabama.gov • Brad Lang, Forester | (205) 361-6306 Brad.Lang@forestry.alabama.gov • Ronnie Turner, Forestry Specialist | (205) 361-2649 Ronnie.Turner@forestry.alabama.gov Walker County | 1701 N Airport Rd | Jasper AL 35504 • Jason Berry, Forestry Specialist | (205) 385-2413 Jason.Berry@forestry.alabama.gov • Jessie McDonald, Forestry Specialist | (205) 300-6198 Jessie.McDonald@forestry.alabama.gov • Chris Wright, Forester | (205) 300-6207 Chris.Wright@forestry.alabama.gov • Bartley Wyers, Forestry Specialist | (205) 300-6231 Bartley.Wyers@forestry.alabama.gov Washington County | 893 Carpenter Rd | Millry AL 36558 • Kenny Goldman, Forest Ranger | (251) 259-6619 Kenny.Goldman@forestry.alabama.gov • Jon Gunter, Forester | (251) 231-0584 Jon.Gunter@forestry.alabama.gov • Roy Thornton, Forest Ranger | (251) 231-0564 Roy.Thornton@forestry.alabama.gov Wilcox County | 231 Camden Bypass | Camden AL 36726 • Shannon Hollinger, Forestry Specialist | (334) 239-5951 Shannon.Hollinger@forestry.alabama.gov • Steve Smith | Forestry Specialist | (334) 410-2254 Steve.Smith@forestry.alabama.gov w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

State Office (334) 240-9300 513 Madison Ave | Montgomery, AL 36104 Executive Division • Rick Oates, State Forester | (334) 300-5189 Rick.Oates@forestry.alabama.gov • Sybil Green, Executive Administrative Assistant | (334) 240-9303 Sybil.Green@forestry.alabama.gov • Bruce Springer, Assistant State Forester | (334) 850-2899 Bruce.Springer@forestry.alabama.gov • Scott Rouse, Deputy Attorney General | (334) 328-7831 Scott.Rouse@forestry.alabama.gov • Lynell Mosley, Administrative Assistant | (334) 240-9347 Lynell.Mosley@forestry.alabama.gov Forest Management Division • Will Brantley, Division Director | (334) 560-6047 William.Brantley@forestry.alabama.gov • Bethany Elliott, Administrative Assistant | (334) 240-9334 Bethany.Elliott@forestry.alabama.gov • Dan Chappell, Forest Inventory & Analysis Coordinator | (334) 850-3986 James.Chappell@forestry.alabama.gov • Dale Dickens, Urban Forestry Coordinator | (334) 467-7971 Dale.Dickens@forestry.alabama.gov • Gary Faulkner, Economic Development Coordinator | (334) 322-1585 Gary.Faulkner@forestry.alabama.gov • David Kelley, State Lands Coordinator | (334) 850-3069 David.Kelley@forestry.alabama.gov • Ray Metzler, Threatened & Endangered Species Specialist | (334) 239-1320 Ray.Metzler@forestry.alabama.gov • Ryan Peek, BMP/Cost Share Coordinator | (334) 399-0301 Ryan.Peek@forestry.alabama.gov • Allen Varner, Stewardship/Cost Share Coordinator | (334) 300-2899 Allen.Varner@forestry.alabama.gov Forest Protection Division • John Goff, Division Director | (256) 626-2218 John.Goff@forestry.alabama.gov • Marti Davis, Administrative Assistant | (334) 240-9332 Marti.Davis@forestry.alabama.gov • Balsie Butler, Fire Operations Manager | (334) 322-0849 Balsie.Butler@forestry.alabama.gov • Dana Stone, Forest Health Coordinator | (205) 385-2387 Dana.Stone@forestry.alabama.gov Public Information • Elishia Ballentine, Public Information/Publications Manager (334) 315-8019 Elishia.Ballentine@forestry.alabama.gov • Kelvin Daniels, Media Specialist | (334) 399-2003 Kelvin.Daniels@forestry.alabama.gov • Michael Kyser, Media Manager/UAS Operations | (334) 315-9314 Mike.Kyser@forestry.alabama.gov 26

FEBRUARY 2019

Alabama 4-H Celebrates

Outstanding Year

By Brittney Kimber

A

labama 4-H continues its strong growth. For the 2017–2018 club year, state enrollment for the youth organization was 178,884 with a total of 3,111 4-H clubs. That’s a 43 percent increase in 4-H clubs from the previous year.

“It was a great year,” said Nancy Alexander, an Alabama 4-H Extension specialist. “The data speaks for itself and affirms that 4-H really is for everyone!”

4-H In 50 Percent Of Schools

Alabama 4-H delivers in-school, after-school and enrichment programming in 729 schools to 134,845 youth. 4-H is present in 50 percent of all Alabama schools, which is about a 3 percent increase from the previous year.

An additional 44,039 youth participated in out-of-school 4-H clubs, camps and educational programs.

Volunteers Are Valuable Partners

Alabama 4-H saw a 73 percent increase in service time with more than 8,900 volunteers contributing 175,049 hours to 4-H programs.

Those hours are valued at $4.3 million.

“It is through the hard work of our agents and volunteers in the field that we can achieve great results each year,” said Dr. Molly Gregg, Alabama Extension assistant director for Alabama 4-H. “I am excited about the results of the enrollment summary data we have for this 4-H club year.”

Numbers Continue To Grow

• Total 4-H club membership is up 11 percent to 51,217.

• Total 4-H clubs is up 43 percent to 3,111.

• 4-H overnight camping increased 4 percent to 3,810.

• 4-H membership in community clubs is up 27 percent.

• Hispanic youth numbers are up 7 percent to 14,314.

• Total number of female members remained at 51 percent while male members remained at 49 percent.

• 4-H members in military and after-school clubs went from 2,870 to 3,243.

Renee Smith, certified culinarian and 4-H Cooking Club volunteer, along with her granddaughter, 4-H member Atia Smith, smile while measuring ingredients during a recent club meeting.

FEBRUARY 2019

• 4-H members from farms increased 43 percent to 8,354.

• Enrollment in grades 7-12 increased 26 percent to 52,735.

27

Hammond Hearn participated in the Clarke County 4-H Dairy Project.

“Alabama 4-H offers diverse programs that have youth and volunteers coming back year after year,” said Wendy Padgett, 4-H Foundation regional Extension agent in Clarke County. “The return of volunteers is huge. They see the value in our programs. I am happy to see the growth of our youth as they succeed in 4-H.”

Top 2017-18 4-H Program Interests

Alabama 4-H seeks to empower youth with the skills to lead their communities, the state, the nation and the world. Among the programs offered by Alabama 4-H, environmental stewardship, citizenship and leadership were reported as the top-three program interests by participation.

A total of 24,387 members were active in environmental stewardship, and a total of 21,666 members and 20,790 members were active in citizenship and leadership, respectively. n

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

Sausage Gravy

Cook Time 15 mins

Makes 4 cups gravy

Ingredients 1 pound ground bulk pork breakfast sausage 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 2 cups milk salt and pepper

Instructions Crumble and brown sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the sausage is no longer pink, sprinkle the flour and cook about 2 minutes.

Gradually add the milk, stirring well after each addition. Continue to cook until the gravy thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

W

“

hat’s your favorite thing to cook?” I get the question all the time. And the answer is always biscuits. I often think there’s something tactile about working the dough that makes it therapeutic, but I imagine it’s more about the emotional connection to biscuits that makes them my favorite.

Making biscuits is an art. It’s something that has to be taught.

I could write 100 recipes with incredible detail, and they would never be as helpful as someone who can stand with you and teach you the feel, the texture, the technique.

I was fortunate to have a host of amazing biscuit bakers in my family. From my mom to my grandparents to my greatgrandmother, they all took time to show me the ways of expert biscuit making. And I think that in itself is the reason I love making biscuits so much. Each time I make them, I am reminded of sweet memories with each of them showing me their methods for perfect biscuits.

And while I can’t stand with you and show you all I’ve learned, I can at least share some of my most helpful hints and tips.

I’m a huge fan of generic and store brands when it comes to ingredients — most of the time.

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

Flour isn’t one of them. In my house, White Lily is the only flour for making biscuits. It’s a soft winter wheat that’s lower in protein, which means light, fluffy, flaky biscuits. I love opting for selfrising flour to save a few steps.

My grandmother used lard as the fat in her biscuits, and my mom used vegetable shortening. I prefer butter. It adds an extra layer of flavor and makes your biscuits rise higher because the water in butter turns into steam. The other options are entirely fat and won’t create pockets of steam to give the biscuits lift like butter does.

While some folks say you want to work biscuit dough as little as possible, I reside in the other camp.

Working the dough and folding it over on itself is vital to creating flaky layers, but your biscuit might sacrifice a little tenderness as a result. If you like soft, tender biscuits and don’t care much about the layers, you’ll want to work the dough as little as possible. If you like mile-high biscuits with tons of layers, just keep on folding it over. I usually fold mine over 8 to 10 times — and hardly ever use a rolling pin. I like to just pat it out with my hands. Yes, the heat from my hands might start melting the butter but not enough to make a 28

huge difference.

One key to consistency with any type of baking is measuring the flour correctly. Don’t scoop a measuring cup into a canister of flour. That packs flour into the cup and will throw off your liquid-to-dry ratio. I always suggest you spoon the flour into a dry measuring cup and level it off with the back of a butter knife.

Remember, if the dough doesn’t turn out perfectly, you can always add more flour if it’s too sticky or more milk if it’s too dry. And never give up biscuit making after one try — or even a couple. I’ve made thousands of biscuits, and they don’t always turn out exactly the same. But the more you make them, the better you’ll get at knowing just what to add to get the dough where you need it to be.

And while biscuits are perfectly delicious on their own, I’ve shared a few favorite gravy recipes to make them even better. Y’all enjoy! n Stacey Little is a foodie, recipe developer and cookbook author whose Southern Bite blog helps families put simple, down-to-earth food on the table while preserving Southern cooking for future generations. See more recipes at southernbite.com.

FEBRUARY 2019

Classic Biscuits

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 10 to 12 mins

Makes 10 to 12 biscuits

Ingredients 2 cups self-rising flour 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter 3/4 cup buttermilk or 2/3 cup whole milk 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions Heat oven to 400 F, and lightly spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, cut butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or two knives until the butter is about the size of small peas. Stir in milk until a dough forms. It should pull away from the sides of the bowl but not be too sticky.

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead several times. Fold dough over on itself 6 to 8 times, rolling flat after each fold. Dust with flour if dough becomes too sticky. Carefully pat or roll the dough to about a 1/2-inch-thick disk. Cut biscuits with a 2 1/2- to 3-inch biscuit cutter by using a straight-up-and-down motion. Do not twist the cutter. Place biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and brush with melted butter. Rework the dough until you’ve cut as many biscuits as you can. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown.

Chocolate Gravy

Prep Time 5 mins

Cook Time 7 mins

Makes 2 cups gravy

Ingredients 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup sugar 1 pinch salt 1 1/2 cups milk 3 tablespoons butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook Time 15 mins

Makes 3 cups gravy

Ingredients 3 tablespoons fat (vegetable oil, shortening, bacon grease or rendered sausage fat) 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 1/3 cups chicken broth or stock 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Instructions In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, sugar and salt. Pour in the milk, and whisk until all lumps are gone. Place the pan over medium heat, and cook 5 to 7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the gravy just begins to boil and then thickens. Once thick, remove from the heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla until the butter has melted. Serve over hot biscuits, pound cake or even ice cream!

FEBRUARY 2019

Southern Tomato Gravy

29

In a skillet over medium heat, whisk flour into the warm fat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the flour just starts to brown and smells nutty.

Slowly whisk in chicken broth and stir until smooth. Add undrained tomatoes and salt and pepper to taste. Cook until thickened — about 5 minutes — stirring frequently. Serve hot over biscuits, grits, etc.

Stacey’s Recipe Notes You can substitute 5 to 6 fresh diced tomatoes for canned tomatoes in this recipe but may need to add additional chicken broth to reach the right consistency. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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