Neighbors Magazine, July 2018

Get parched this summer.

Grab a cold cola and a bag of freshly parched peanuts, and enjoy your summer.

It's how we roll in the South.

www.ALPeanuts.com

VOLUME 43,

NUMBER 7

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

July 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

4

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.

11

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

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation J U LY 2 0 1 8

8

Summer Interns Join Federation

13 Bama Beef Tour Heads West 15 FarmPAC Runoff Endorsements 28 Going Whole Hog On Sausage

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

www.AlfaFarmers.org

Mooving Ag To The Classroom

11 Preparing Poultry Houses

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

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.

4

On The Cover Andy Millard of Mountain View Orchards picks a

13

basket of fresh peaches on his farm in Jemison.

Photo by Caleb Hicks

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

Farm Tours Highlight Ag In The Classroom Summer Institute

By Morgan Graham

T

he Alabama Ag in the Classroom (AITC) Summer Institute equipped 77 teachers to share the importance of agriculture with their students.

Kindergarten through sixthgrade teachers from across the state attended the institute, which included workshops and farm tours in and around Mobile County May 30-June 1.

For teachers like Shannon Summerville of Ossie Ware Mitchell School in Birmingham, the institute's farm tours were the first time to experience farming.

Summerville said seeing it up close makes him better prepared to teach his students about agriculture.

“My main reason for coming to AITC was to learn about farming,” said Summerville, who teaches sixth-grade science. “I’m from inner-city Birmingham, and I want to learn so I can teach my students and give them the experience of planting and growing fruits and vegetables from seed.”

Rehobeth Elementary School Assistant Principal Dusty McKinley is no stranger to farming but said attending AITC taught her how to better incorporate agriculture into her school’s curriculum.

“I step back from the teaching aspect, and I see the use of

Beth Cooley of The Helen Keller School feeds a dairy calf at Middleton Farms, one of four farms teachers visited during the Ag in the Classroom Summer Institute. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

technology and how it improves production on farms,” said McKinley.

“We need to continue to incorporate technology into our classrooms and let kids know they can get outside and work with technology.”

McKinley Rehobeth Elementary School Assistant Principal Dusty McKinley, left, and wants to Ossie Ware Mitchell School teacher Shannon Summerville, right, talk to partner with Mobile County farmer Brian Keller during a tour of his farm.

Rehobeth High School to use its greenhouse to their classrooms. Summerville said germinate seeds for elementary the materials were great, but the school students and mentor them experience and knowledge gained through the growing process. during AITC were immeasurable.

Teachers weren’t the only ones “We would not have food to enjoying the annual event. Farmers eat if it wasn’t for our farmers,” he said they loved talking to teachers said. “I want my students to have about how farming impacts lives respect for farmers, know where and its economic importance. their food comes from and learn Mobile County’s Brian Keller how to grow it themselves.” said it was a pleasure to host Alabama Farmers Federation teachers at his tree farm.

Women’s Leadership Division “It’s exciting to share our story Director Kim Ramsey chairs the with teachers who are helping AITC Steering Committee. She said shape the minds and opinions of hosting the event in Mobile showed our future,” Keller said. “Having teachers the diversity of Alabama them tour real farms is a great way agriculture, from dairy cattle to to show them the care we have for fruits and vegetables to tree farms. the environment and the plants and “Not only do teachers learn new animals raised on Alabama farms.” classroom activities, they also learn Teachers also toured Sessions directly from farmers,” Ramsey Farms and Driskell Farms in said. “The tours and discussions Mobile County and Middleton are excellent ways to learn accurate Farms in Moss Point, Mississippi. information and learn how to dispel To kick off the conference, the misinformation consumers Excellence in Agriculture Teaching sometimes hear about farming.”

Award recipients presented The Federation and the State successful agricultural projects used Department of Agriculture and in their classrooms. Other activities Industries partner to provide the included hands-on crafts and institute. Much of its support is discussion of online resources for provided by the Alabama Farmers agricultural lesson plans and games. Agriculture Foundation, which is Teachers received continuing primarily funded by the sale of ag education credits and over $275 tag license plates. For information worth of educational materials for visit AlabamaAITC.org. n 4

J U LY 2 0 1 8

Alfa Foundation Scholarships Awarded To 100 College Students In Alabama

O

ne hundred students working toward degrees at Alabama technical schools, colleges and universities will receive $1,000 from the Alfa Foundation Scholarship Program for the 2018-2019 school year.

This year’s recipients hail from 38 Alabama counties and attend 24 different institutions of higher learning.

“The cost of higher education seems to increase every year, which can make it tough for students to achieve the goal of earning a degree,” said Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “I’m glad we can award 100 scholarships to these hard-working students to help them pursue their dreams.”

Since its inception in 2014, the Alfa Foundation Scholarship Program has awarded $450,000 to students from 61 of Alabama’s 67 counties who studied at 34 different institutions.

The program is administered through Scholarship America, which bases its selection on academics, participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience and future goals. Scholarships may be used for tuition, fees, books or supplies.

To view photos of the recipients, visit AlfaInsurance.com or go to Facebook.com/AlfaInsurance.

Autauga County Daniel Carter, Prattville, Auburn Baldwin County Arcole Brandon, Fairhope, Auburn Claire Dunagan, Daphne, Samford Greer Robinson, Barnwell, Alabama Zoe Vicich, Daphne, Auburn Barbour County Elizabeth Baylee Long, Clio, AUM Bibb County Kalli Cox, Centreville, Alabama Daniel Sellers, Woodstock, West Alabama Victoria Watkins, Brent, Montevallo Butler County Taylor Turner, McKenzie, Auburn Chambers County Sarah Parker, Lanett, Jacksonville State

J U LY 2 0 1 8

Chilton County Carson Littleton, Jemison, Jefferson State CC Riley Locke, Clanton, Auburn Choctaw County Bailey Manning, Toxey, South Alabama Brennan McIlwain, Gilbertown, South Alabama Mikaela Utsey, Silas, West Alabama Caroline Wigley, Gilbertown, Alabama Clay County Tanner Denney, Ashland, Southern Union CC Will Jordan, Talladega, Auburn Coffee County Cody Davis, Kinston, Auburn Leslie Richey, New Brockton, Auburn Conecuh County Alexandria Etheridge, Evergreen, Auburn Ashley Riley, Evergreen, Coastal Alabama CC Cullman County Conner Burnham, Cullman, Samford 5

Alivia Gambrill, Cullman, Wallace St.- Hanceville Baylee Jennings, Cullman, Auburn

Dale County Tori Davis, Ozark, Alabama Emily Trawick, Newville, Alabama Dallas County McKenzie Horton, Selma, Judson Ann Yocum, Selma, Auburn DeKalb County Colby Cochran, Rainsville, Jacksonville State Christian Townson, Rainsville, Alabama Elmore County James Duer, Wetumpka, Auburn Savana Griffin, Millbrook, Troy Jana Venable, Wetumpka, Alabama Etowah County Ann-Margaret Swindall, Rainbow City, Alabama Franklin County Erica Cantrell, Vina, North Alabama Houston County Chandler Davis, Dothan, Troy Landon Overby, Dothan, Troy Alex Reynolds, Dothan, Troy Leah Grace Strickland, Dothan, Auburn Jackson County Pacey Carson, Section, Jacksonville State Kelsey Gant, Pisgah, Northeast Alabama CC Julia Webb, Scottsboro, Jacksonville State Jefferson County Caroline Dyess, Birmingham, Auburn Joel Earnest, McCalla, Auburn Madelyn Gilbertson, Trussville, UAB Grace Lambert, Trussville, Auburn Kathryn Stubblefield, Hoover, Auburn Maleah Walker, Birmingham, Samford Lauderdale County Blake Kelly, Killen, Alabama Maria Mask, Florence, North Alabama w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Lee County Hayden Burch, Auburn, Auburn Lee Givens, Auburn, Auburn Lilly Walker, Auburn, Auburn Madeline Wellbaum, Auburn, Auburn Limestone County Ashlyn Ruf, Athens, Calhoun CC Elizabeth Thomas, Athens, Athens State Macon County Chelsey Cox, Shorter, Auburn Madison County Ashlyn Gaylord, Madison, North Alabama Holly Jennings, Harvest, Auburn Sydney Phillips, Madison, Alabama Chassity Terrell, Ardmore, UAH Olivia Wray, Meridianville, Auburn Marshall County William Colvin, Albertville, Alabama Mobile County Dylan Hooper, Mobile, South Alabama Taylor Hooper, Mobile, Faulkner Monroe County Lundy Davis, Franklin, South Alabama

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

450,000 awarded in the form of scholarships 450

$

61 34 since to students

attending

Lawrence County Savannah Jones, Moulton, North Alabama Kassie Lee, Moulton, North Alabama Alaina Wiley, Danville, Auburn

from

schools counties 2014

Kendall Steele, Beatrice, Auburn Noah Whittington, Frisco City, Mobile Katie Wiggins, Atmore, Auburn Montgomery County Catherine Cowden, Montgomery, Samford Meredith Moore, Montgomery, Alabama Margaret Rhodes, Montgomery, Huntingdon Katie Scott, Montgomery, Auburn Carrie Sharpe, Montgomery, Auburn Kaitlin Tatum, Montgomery, Alabama

6

Cooper Waller, Ramer, Auburn Morgan County Mary Catherine Beggs, Decatur, Alabama Bryan Holmes, Hartselle, Auburn Julianna Pike, Hartselle, Auburn Pike County Abbie Barron, Troy, Auburn Jensen Garrett, Troy, Troy Shelby County Jacob Odom, Birmingham, Alabama St. Clair County Elizabeth Cox, Springville, Samford Madison Daniell, Trussville, Alabama Hallie Hannah, Cropwell, Jacksonville State Ashlea Posey, Springville, UAB Kaila Posey, Springville, UAB Elizabeth Salser, Ashville, Auburn Talladega County Josie Williams, Childersburg, Auburn Tuscaloosa County Katelyn Burkhalter, Cottondale, Shelton St. CC Madison Clary, Tuscaloosa, Alabama Caleigh Henson, Tuscaloosa, Alabama Carson Jones, Northport, Shelton State CC Rebekah McCray, Tuscaloosa, Alabama Walker County Holley Spivy, Dora, Alabama n

J U LY 2 0 1 8

Relationships That Pay Dividends.

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

- Nealy Barrett Jr., Elmore County

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

FINANCING LAND & FARMS

Land Purchasing and Refinancing Serving north Alabama

AlabamaFarmCredit.com 877-681-6087

New and Used Equipment Purchases Livestock Financing Varying Terms and Rates

Serving south Alabama

AlabamaAgCredit.com 800-579-5471

Call Alabama Farm Credit or Alabama Ag Credit to learn how low rates and relationship lending help farmers harvest savings that pay dividends.

Ginny Bradley

Morgan Graham

Elizabeth Thompson

Caleb Hicks

Alabama Farmers Federation Welcomes Summer Interns

T

he Alabama Farmers Federation has welcomed Troy University and Auburn University (AU) students and graduates for summer internships.

Troy’s Ginny Bradley joins AU students Morgan Graham and Elizabeth Thompson at the Federation, while recent AU graduate Caleb Hicks returns for his third internship at the state’s largest farm organization. They will intern through the Federation’s Commodity Producers Conference in August.

Bradley, a Clarke County native, is interning with the Soybean and Wheat & Feed Grain Producers.

The Troy communications and public relations senior is visiting farms and writing for Federation publications, focusing on use of checkoff dollars.

“I am very thankful for this opportunity,” said Bradley, who is from Jackson. “I think this will be a great experience, not only to improve my writing and communications skills, but also to learn more about agriculture.”

At Troy, Bradley is secretary of Lambda Pi Eta National Honor Society for Communications Studies. She is also a charter member of the Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity and is an Alpha Gamma Delta alumna.

Pike County native Graham, an

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

AU agricultural communications senior, is working with the Federation’s Public Relations and Communications Department.

She writes and takes photos for Neighbors magazine, manages social media and is working on website-related projects.

“I am honored to learn more and sharpen my communications skills,” said Graham, who is from Brundidge. “I’m working with some of the best in the industry while getting to network with farmers throughout Alabama.”

Graham graduates from AU Aug. 4. She was AU Young Farmers social media chair, worked with AU Collegiate Cattlemen and was senior director of AgHill Communications, a student-led public relations organization.

Cullman County’s Thompson is interning with the Organization Department, where she assisted with Ag in the Classroom (AITC) Summer Institute. She also works on ag literacy projects and curriculum development.

“I am excited to advocate for and serve Alabama’s agricultural industry through AITC,” said Thompson, a native of Holly Pond.

“The possibilities for sharing information about our No. 1 industry are endless.”

Thompson is AU Ag Ambassadors social chair and is Ag 8

Council secretary-treasurer.

An AU agricultural communications graduate, Hicks is working with the Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) for a second summer.

He previously worked for the Soybean and Wheat & Feed Grain Producers.

“I am excited to work again with the AFVGA,” said Hicks, a native of Ramer in Montgomery County. “I look forward to learning about and promoting this organization while meeting new people in agriculture.”

Duties include farm visits, fruit and vegetable promotions, coordinating farmers market programming and social media.

He will also update the AFVGA membership database.

Thompson and Hicks are both scholarship recipients through the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation.

Federation President Jimmy Parnell said supporting these interns will impact the students and agriculture for years to come.

“Ginny, Morgan, Elizabeth and Caleb are the future of our industry,” Parnell said. “We’re excited to invest in them.

Agriculture will reap rewards from their hands-on education and experiences within our organization.” n J U LY 2 0 1 8

Never Lose Electricity Again!

Farm & Land Expo Is Aug. 4 In Montgomery

J U LY 2 0 1 8

Own the #1 Brand in Home Standby Power.

CALL for FREE Generator Buyer’s Guide, DVD, and…

7 out of 10 buyers choose Generac Home Standby Generators to automatically provide electricity to their homes during power outages.

GENERAC Home Standby Generators start at just $1,949.*

Limited Time

BONUS OFFER! TOLL FREE

877-200-6583

FreeGeneratorGuide.com

*Price does not include installation. 19005X © 2018

The EASY DR® Way to TRIM and MOW!

America’s ORIGINAL Walk-Behind Brush Mower!

NEW and IMPROVED DR® Field and Brush Mowers

Starting at just

$34999 TOW-BEHIND MODELS TOO!

*Assembled in the USA using domestic and foreign parts.

The DR® TRIMMER MOWER gives you 5X the power and NONE of the backstrain of handheld trimmers!

• Trims and mows thick grass and weeds without bogging down—the ONLY trimmer guaranteed not to wrap!

• Rolls light as a feather on big, easy-rolling wheels!

• Thickest, longest-lasting cutting cord (up to 225 mil) takes seconds to change.

DRtrimmers.com

FREE SHIPPING 6 MONTH TRIAL SOME LIMITATIONS APPLY Call or go online for details.

9

FASTER. Up to 20 HP and 34"-wide cut for faster mowing!

EASIER. New power steering for turn-on-adime ease!

LOWER PRICES. Reduced by up to $500!

NEW CHOICES: including PTO models for tractors and ATVs.

Now Starting at $149999 DRfieldbrush.com

19004A © 2018

The DR® Field & Brush Mower just got even better—

19004B © 2018

F

armers, cattlemen, gardeners, outdoorsmen, equipment enthusiasts and forest fanatics are encouraged to explore offerings from vendors at the Alabama Farm & Land Expo Aug. 4 from 1-5 p.m. in Montgomery.

Over 1,000 attendees are expected at the second annual event hosted by the Alabama Farmers Federation. The Expo is held conjunction with the Federation’s Commodity Producers Conference at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center. The expo is a time for farmers and landowners to network; view the latest technology; shop; and learn techniques to improve their farms’ yields and profitability.

Exhibitors include equipment dealers, ag lenders, land consultants, feed and seed dealers, on-farm technology specialists and insurance firms. Researchers, nonprofits and associations are also encouraged to exhibit. Interested vendors should register at FarmAndLandExpo.com by July 15.

One lucky attendee will receive a $100 Farm Bureau Bank gift card in a drawing for visiting participating vendors.

New this year are townhall-style presentations covering the latest ideas, technology and research.

A suggested $5 donation benefiting Children’s of Alabama will be accepted at the door.

Questions? Contact Brittany Daniel at (334) 613-4750 or bdaniel@alfafarmers.org. n

Call for FREE DVD and Catalog!

TOLL FREE

877-200-7636

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

Farnsworth Retires From Federation After 19 Years

By Debra Davis

Farm-City activities, and I’m especially fond of avid Farnsworth spent the Farm of Distinction 19 years promoting (FOD) program. I was agriculture for fortunate to have four FOD what he describes as the state winners during my organization God led him career. I’ve also enjoyed to. As Area 4 Organization encouraging young farmers Director for the Alabama to join and participate in the Farmers Federation, he organization.” served counties in the east In retirement, central region of the state Farnsworth said he plans to before retiring April 30. spend more time with God, “I have been so blessed enjoy time his wife and to work for the Federation,” ramp up his exercising. He said Farnsworth, 65. “I was wants to spend more time hired when I was 46 — with his growing family — what might be considered he has three grandchildren Clay County Farmers Federation leaders Felicia and Lamar Dewberry late in life. I’ve met so were among the large crowd who attended the retirement reception for with two more expected many wonderful people soon. He’s also considering a David Farnsworth, left. across the state; many of part-time job, although he’s them are like family to me. They’ve to Sylacauga in 2002, where he not sure what that’ll be. Retirement welcomed me into their homes served counties in that region. plans also include hiking the and to their farms and made me a Both he and wife Jan are Auburn Appalachian Trail. He’s hiked about part of their lives. It’s truly been a University graduates, and all four 200 miles of the trail and looks wonderful career.” of their daughters followed suit forward to covering the remaining As organization director, with undergraduate degrees from 2,000 miles soon.

Farnsworth began work with “I’m not sure what God has Auburn. the Federation while living in planned for me in the next phase “Having the opportunity to his hometown of Tuscaloosa. be an advocate for farmers and of my life, but I know if I keep He worked with county leaders the largest industry in Alabama him first, he will direct my path,” to support and implement (agriculture) was a tremendous Farnsworth said.

Federation programs in northwest honor,” Farnsworth said. “I His retirement reception central Alabama before moving thoroughly enjoyed promoting at the Federation home office in Montgomery was April 30.

Hundreds of county leaders, co-workers and retired Federation employees attended. He was described as “a pusher.”

“That’s a great description for David,” said Federation T E L E V I S I O N S H O W Organization Department Director Mike Tidwell. “I appreciate David’s passion for agriculture and the Federation. He never cut corners and worked hard every day. He always strove to make his counties the very best.”

During remarks at the reception, Farnsworth said his favorite movie is “It’s A Wonderful Life.”

“I’m a blessed man,” he said. “I can truly say I’ve had a wonderful life.” n

D

New Episodes Beginning July 1

w w w . S i m p l y S o u t h e r n T V. n e t

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

10

J U LY 2 0 1 8

About 40 poultry farmers participated in the seminar at Auburn University's National Poultry Technology Center where they learned to improve efficiency in their chicken houses.

Blount County's Jeff Maze calibrates light at Auburn's National Poultry Technology Center.

Poultry Farmers Prepare For Summer Season

By Marlee Moore

A

labama poultry farmers could see a surge in savings during the summer season thanks to recent training hosted by the Alabama Farmers Federation.

Around 40 farmers attended the seminar for poultry growers at Auburn University’s National Poultry Technology Center (NPTC)

Pike County poultry farmers Joe Murphy, left, and Steve Stroud, right were among participants at the growers seminar.

J U LY 2 0 1 8

May 15. The Federation’s Guy Hall said he hopes to coordinate similar events in the future.

“The NPTC is a great resource for Alabama poultry growers to learn how to more efficiently run their operations,” said Hall, the Federation’s Poultry Division director. “The hands-on demonstration will help growers save money on operating expenses, which will increase revenue on their bottom line.”

State Poultry Committee Chairman Joe Murphy said both beginning and longtime poultry farmers benefited from the training, which emphasized productivity.

“If you’re as efficient as you can be with your inputs, you can ride out difficult situations, such as weather or fluctuating fuel costs,” said Murphy, who has raised broiler chickens in Pike County’s Linwood community for over 20 years. “When you implement small savings, they become large savings over the life of the product.”

He also thanked the NPTC for working to improve poultry production for all facets of the industry, from integrators to growers to insurers.

11

“These guys address, troubleshoot and solve problems to remove the element of trial and error on poultry farms,” said Murphy, 42.

“We should always be receptive to new technologies and study results.”

Equipment maintenance was a hot topic at the seminar.

Demonstrations focused on regulating heat in poultry houses through evaporative cooling, hot weather ventilation and LED lighting.

The NPTC’s Jim Donald said he was excited to bring farmers to the state-of-the-art center, which was partially funded by the Federation.

“The goal of the seminar was to introduce the Federation’s grower base to the type facility we have and to explain how attending meetings here will help them,” said Donald, the NPTC director. “Our goal is to get their equipment ready for hot weather. These growers need to feel comfortable that they know what to do if they lose power.

This hands-on teaching and applied research poultry house helps them do that.”

Visit PoultryHouse.com for tips and NPTC newsletters. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Net Gains

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

WHEAT & FEED GRAIN PRODUCERS

GrainsofTruth.net

Texas-Style

Beef Tour Impresses Alabama Farmers

By Debra Davis

Chet and Carol Matthews of Elmore County joined farmers across Alabama on the Federation's annual beef tour. This year's tour featured farms around Fort Worth, Texas.

A

busload of cattlemen spent three days visiting some of the best cattle ranches, research facilities and bovine-related businesses around Fort Worth, Texas, during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s annual Beef Tour May 10-12.

It was the first beef tour for Federation members Chet and Carol Matthews of Elmore County.

They said it provided a unique opportunity to see how other ranchers select genetics to improve their cattle herd, design livestock handling equipment and implement grazing techniques with different forage varieties.

“Personally, the tour stop at F.E. Hill Ranch (in Fairfield, Texas) was one of my favorites,” Chet said. “They took a former mining operation and made it into a beautiful ranch. You would never believe the place had been mined.”

For Carol, the trip was an experience that spoke to her heart more than her interest in cattle.

“We learned a lot about cattle, but what impressed me most was the people we met,” she said. “At every stop we made they were so glad we were there, and they showed their love for the Lord. I just didn’t expect that. It was a good surprise.”

J U LY 2 0 1 8

Chet, who has about 50 brood cows, said many things he saw at farms on the tour and the advice shared by others invigorated him to make changes on his farm.

“We saw some of the finest bulls I’ve ever seen,” he said. “There were outstanding Red Angus, Herefords, Beefmasters and others. I don’t know exactly which breed I’m going to go with, but seeing them makes me want to do better.”

Carol said even though they were hundreds of miles from Alabama, she met fellow farmers from her home state during the tour.

“Riding on the bus, sharing meals and visiting with the others on the tour, we made several new friends from Alabama who are also in the beef cattle business,” she said. “It’s nice to meet people who

have the same interests as us.”

The tour was also a first for Walker County’s Garry and Teresa Rowland of Jasper. Garry, a former Federation State Hay & Forage Committee member, said he especially liked learning the types of grasses Fort Worth ranchers prefer.

“I really liked the stop at Texas A&M’s AgriLife Research & Extension Center in Overton where researchers talked about grazing trials that would also be applicable in our state,” he said.

The Federation’s Nate Jaeger organized the tour, which covered 614 miles and 15 stops. He said stops were designed to offer farmers with various size operations an opportunity to connect and learn.

“The tour featured a diverse group of hosts, ranging from a 36,000-acre ranch with 2,500 cows to a smaller 100-cow ranch that utilized management-intensive grazing on less than 100 acres,” said Jaeger, director of the Federation’s Beef, Equine, Hay & Forage and Meat Goat & Sheep divisions. “We also visited the Texas Farm Bureau state office in Waco. We were happy to meet with them and learn about their organization and issues important to their members.”

Jaeger said the Overton Research Center stop was a favorite among attendees because of its applied research conducted on beef cattle and forages. He said it’s beneficial to learn what other state Extension systems are working on to impact farmers in those state.

Next year’s Tour will be to Washington, tentatively in June. n

The last stop on this year's Beef Tour was the Beefmaster Bull Test in Greenville, Texas.

13

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

New Car Presented To Alabama Teacher Of The Year

By Mary Johns

B

ooker T. Washington Magnet High School English teacher Zestlan Simmons will spend the next year traveling and speaking across the state as the 2018-2019 Alabama Teacher of the Year.

To make her travels easier, Alfa Insurance presented Simmons a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse May 22 at the Alfa Insurance Child Care Center. The Alabama Farmers Federation covered the cost of auto insurance provided through Alfa.

“Alfa is a Montgomery-based company, and we’re excited for the Teacher of the Year to be from our own backyard,” said Alfa and Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “I hope the use of this car helps Zestlan achieve her goal of inspiring her peers to achieve even greater success in education.”

Simmons is a National Board

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

Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell congratulates Alabama Teacher of the Year Zestlan Simmons.

certified teacher and mentors new teachers in Montgomery County Public Schools.

“This is truly a great honor, and I am thankful for this wonderful

14

opportunity to represent our great state,” Simmons said.

Simmons was named Teacher of the Year during a May 9 ceremony in downtown Montgomery hosted by the Alabama State Board of Education and the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE).

She is Alabama’s official candidate for the National Teacher of the Year award.

State Superintendent Eric Mackey said he's confident Simmons will represent the state well.

“We are so proud of her and thankful for this long-standing partnership with Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation,” said Mackey.

This is the 22nd year Alfa and the Federation have partnered with ALSDE to present the Teacher of the Year with a year’s use of a car and insurance. n

J U LY 2 0 1 8

Vote July 17

FarmPAC Endorsed Candidates Federal & State Races Lt. Governor

Will Ainsworth o

U.S. Congress, District 2

Martha Roby o

Attorney General

Steve Marshall o

Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries

Alabama Supreme Court Place 1

Brad Mendheim o

Alabama Court of Civil Appeals Place 1

Christy Olinger Edwards o Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals Place 2

Chris McCool o

Rick Pate o

District Races State Board of Education District 2

Barbour, Chambers, Clay, Cleburne, Coffee, Coosa, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lee, Randolph, Russell, Tallapoosa

Melanie Hill o State Senate District 13

Chambers, Clay, Cleburne, Lee, Randolph

Randy Price o State Senate District 26 Montgomery

John Knight o State Senate District 32

State House of Representatives District 30

State House of Representatives District 83

Craig Lipscomb o

Pat "Patsy" Jones o

State House of Representatives District 38

State House of Representatives District 88

Debbie Wood o

Will Dismukes o

State House of Representatives District 77

State House of Representatives District 91

Malcolm Calhoun o

Rhett Marques o

State House of Representatives District 81

State House of Representatives District 102

Terry Martin o

Willie Gray o

Etowah, St. Clair

Chambers, Lee

Montgomery

Chilton, Coosa, Tallapoosa

Baldwin

Chris Elliott o State House of Representatives District 17 Lamar, Marion, Winston

Lee, Russell

Autauga, Elmore

Coffee

Mobile

State House of Representatives District 82 Lee, Macon, Tallapoosa

Pebblin Warren o

Tracy Estes o

Alabama Farmers Federation

Political Action Committee

Paid for and distributed by Alabama Farmers Federation, PO Box 11000, Montgomery, AL 36191.

J U LY 2 0 1 8

15

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

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 and harvest sweet strawberries in the Spring!

FREE CATALOG

Keplinger Aluminum Burial Vault Co. Save up to $3,000 on Premium Quality Burial Vaults as low as $1,275!

Call 205-285-9732 today!

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

16

J U LY 2 0 1 8

SAVE A

When you add High-Speed Internet

BUNDLE

Restrictions apply. Subject to availability. Internet not provided by DISH.

AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE

Internet Speeds Starting at 25 Mbps, Faster Speeds Available

Experience the Best Streaming of your Favorite Shows and Movies

DISH is ranked #1 in Customer Service nationally by J.D. Power and our customers.

More TV. Less Money. It’s ALL INCLUDED. Get 190 CHANNELS including local channels.

INCLUDED!

SMART HD DVR + FREE VOICE REMOTE

Access Netflix directly from your Hopper.

Requires Internet connected Hopper. Netflix streaming membership required.

Alexa Integration - Enjoy Hands-Free TVTM with DISH and Amazon Alexa.

Built-in Bluetooth lets you stay up late watching TV without disturbing the rest of the family.

2-YEAR

TV PRICE GUARANTEE

59 FOR ONLY

$

99

per mth plus taxes

AMERICA’S TOP 120 PACKAGE

All offers require credit qualification, 2-Year commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay. Prices include Hopper Duo for qualifying customers. Hopper, Hopper w/Sling or Hopper 3 $5/mo. more. Upfront fees may apply based on credit qualification. Fees apply for additional TVs: Hopper $15/mo., Joey $5/mo., Super Joey $10/mo.

FREE

HD

FOR LIFE

Because why shouldn’t it be?

FREE

FREE

PREMIUM CHANNELS

NEXT DAY INSTALLATION Up to 6 rooms, where available.

For 3 Months

™

Not available with certain packages. After 3 months, you will be billed $30/mo. unless you call to cancel.

All offers require credit qualification, 2-Year commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay.

SWITCH TO DISH AND RECEIVE All offers require credit qualification, 2-Year commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay.

Courtesy of InfinityDISH with activation, certain conditions apply. Free $50 MasterCard Gift Card when you order a qualifying DISH TV service (premium customer qualification only).

CALL NOW 1-833-968-3860 INFINITYDISH.COM

WE ARE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK; 8 AM – MIDNIGHT EST, SUNDAY 9 AM – MIDNIGHT EST. OFFER ONLY GOOD FOR NEW DISH SUBSCRIBERS. • SE HABLA ESPAÑOL

Gift Card

50

$

1234 5678 9012 34 56

GIFT FOR YOU MUST MENTION OFFER CODE AT TIME OF ORDER : CARD50

All calls with InfinityDISH are monitored and recorded for quality assurance and training purposes. Offer for new and qualifying former customers only. Important Terms and Conditions: Qualification: Advertised price requires credit qualification and eAutoPay. Upfront activation and/or receiver upgrade fees may apply based on credit qualification. Offer ends 11/14/18. 2-Year Commitment: Early termination fee of $20/mo. remaining applies if you cancel early. Included in 2-year price guarantee at $59.99 advertised price: America’s Top 120 programming package, local channels, HD service fees, and Hopper Duo for 1 TV. Included in 2-year price guarantee for additional cost: Programming package upgrades ($69.99 for AT120+, $79.99 for AT200, $89.99 for AT250), monthly fees for upgraded or additional receivers ($5-$7 per additional TV, receivers with additional functionality may be $10-$15). NOT included in 2-year price guarantee or advertised price (and subject to change): Taxes & surcharges, add-on programming (including premium channels), DISH Protect, and transactional fees. Premium Channels: 3 Mos. Free: After 3 mos., you will be billed $30/mo. for Showtime, Starz and DISH Movie Pack unless you call to cancel. Other: All packages, programming, features, and functionality and all prices and fees not included in price lock are subject to change without notice. After 6 mos., if selected you will be billed $8.99/mo. for DISH Protect Silver unless you call to cancel. After 2 years, then-current everyday prices for all services apply. For business customers, additional monthly fees may apply. Free standard professional installation only. Alexa Integration: Requires internet-connected Hopper®, Joey®, or Wally™ and Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Plus, Echo Spot, Echo Show or Amazon Tap device. Amazon, Alexa, Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Plus, Echo Spot, Echo Show, Amazon Tap, and all related logos are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. SHOWTIME is a registered trademark of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS Company. STARZ and related channels and service marks are property of Starz Entertainment, LLC. Internet: Internet speeds, prices, and providers vary by customer address. Call for details. Internet not provided by DISH and will be billed separately. Mastercard® gift card must be requested through your DISH Representative at time of purchase. $50 Mastercard® gift card requires activation. You will receive a claim voucher within 3-4 weeks and the voucher must be returned within 60 days. Your Mastercard® gift card will arrive in approximately 6-8 weeks. InfinityDISH charges a one-time $49.99 non-refundable processing fee which is subject to change at any time without notice. Indiana C.P.D. Reg. No. T.S. R1903. DISH Network received the highest numerical score for customer service and second highest score for overall customer satisfaction among national TV providers in the J.D. Power 2017 U.S. Television Service Provider Satisfaction Study, based on 18,685 total responses, measuring the experiences and perceptions of customers with their TV service provider, surveyed November 2016-July 2017. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

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

18

PHOTOS: CALEB HICKS

“Our main goal is to get customers the best quality fruit at the best possible price,” said Andy Millard.

J U LY 2 0 1 8

Peachy Keen On Summer Produce Fresh Is Best At Mountain View Orchards

By Marlee Moore

berries fill in the spring, and apple production picks up from late July through October.

“When it comes to our fruit, I’m our No. 1 customer,” Wilson said.

“I probably eat 10 peaches a day.

We can eat year-round the fruit we grow here.”

The Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association’s (AFVGA)

to a pavilion where groups gather.

The whole family pitches in, too, with Millard’s daughters hen customers visit Mabrey, Francesca and Ava Claire Mountain View Orchards in working the fields, retail store and Jemison, they’re not simply Café Mountain View, a food truck purchasing ripe-as-it-gets, justrolling out pastries and snacks picked Chilton County peaches. using farm-fresh fruit.

They’re experiencing a homier “The customers have kind of way of life — full of porch-sitting, grown up with our girls,” Millard chatting and nibbling on fruit said. “They’re like part of turnovers, milkshakes and our family.” smoothies.

The farmers said they’re “Our main goal is to get thankful for a good crop, a customers the best quality blessing after limited chill fruit at the best possible hours and a late freeze price,” said Andy Millard, destroyed peach crops who owns the 45-acre across the Southeast in orchard with father-in2017. law Steve Wilson. “People Despite the long hours don’t sit on the front porch and tough seasons, Wilson anymore. But when they said he’d pick farming every come to the farm, they time. sit down and relax for 30 “We partner with God in minutes. They’ll buy fruit creation,” Wilson said. “We and eat it while they talk get to see his glory every to us.” day.”

Wilson started working Farm store hours are on the farm in 1983 after Andy Millard and Steve Wilson of Mountain View Orchards peruse freshly picked peaches from their Chilton County farm in Jemison.

Tuesday-Saturday from stints with the Alabama 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Café Cooperative Extension Mac Higginbotham said Chilton Mountain View opens at 9 a.m.

System and the Federal Land Bank.

County is synonymous with To learn more, visit In 1992, Millard joined the farm peaches, but bears a bounty of MountainViewOrchards.com or full time after marrying Wilson’s additional produce, as do other like Mountain View Orchards on daughter, Christy. counties across the state.

Facebook. n Following years selling produce “Alabama’s diverse geography off Interstate 65 in Clanton, allows for a long growing season the family returned to its roots for fruits and vegetables,” said marketing peaches, apples and Higginbotham, AFVGA’s executive strawberries straight to customers.

“Fruit develops its sugar content director. “Farmers markets and roadside stands are a staple in the longer it’s on the tree,” said communities. There’s nothing Wilson, 71. “If we can leave the better than feeding your family fruit on the tree two more days, Alabama-grown, farm-fresh it has a sweeter taste and better foods.” color.”

Mountain View Gala, golden prince and 13 Orchards is family other peach varieties ripen as the centric, from a small orchard’s May-September peach petting zoo for kids season progresses, while straw-

W

J U LY 2 0 1 8

19

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

Cherokee and Plainsview FFA members talked with Federation staff about careers in agriculture during State FFA Convention. From left are Lauren Hall, Waylon Collins, the Federation’s Mac Higginbotham and Wiley Bailey, Madi McKay and Allen Haley.

Sand Rock FFA’s Lucus DuQue flew a drone at the Federation’s booth after winning a round of an ag-themed trivia game.

FFA Members Compete During Alabama Convention

By Morgan Graham

Alabama Farmers Federation’s Jennifer Christenberry said she enjoys watching students learn about agriculture, discover strengths and overcome weaknesses through FFA. “The Alabama Farmers Federation has a longstanding partnership with FFA to invest in future agricultural leaders,” said Christenberry, the Federation’s Young Farmers Division director and a former National FFA officer. “The agricultural industry needs strong leaders, and that’s our goal — to create solid, knowledgeable leaders who will have a positive impact on the future of agriculture.”

FFA members participated in a quiz bowl and flew drones around a commodity-themed obstacle course at the Federation’s FFA career show booth. The booth highlighted technology’s role in modern agriculture.

Central High School of Clay County sophomore Russell Jordan said FFA taught him professional skills and ignited his enthusiasm for agriculture.

“FFA has given me the opportunity to expand and grow my passion for agriculture,” said Jordan, who credited his brother, Will, for laying his foundation in and love for FFA. “It also has allowed me to show cattle and be part of livestock judging. Through these outlets, I met people all around the U.S., and I will be forever grateful for that.”

Students also participated in convention workshops and received proficiency awards. Additionally, new state officers were inducted.

During the convention, Federation employees Nate Jaeger and David Cole were among those inducted into the FFA Wall of Honor. Jaeger is the Beef, Equine, Hay & Forage and Meat Goat & Sheep divisions director, while Cole is State Legislative Programs director for the House of Representatives. Cole was also presented an Honorary State FFA Degree, as was Federation Cotton, Soybean and Wheat & Feed Grain Divisions Director Carla Hornady.

State winners will represent Alabama at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, in October. n

A

sea of national blue and corn gold swept the Capital City as over 1,300 students and advisers gathered for the 90th Alabama FFA State Convention June 6-8.

Students competed in state career development events (CDEs) during the annual meeting in Montgomery, sharpening their professional development skills and industry knowledge. The

Jeff Register Building & Truss RegisterFarmBarns.com

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

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

Prices do not include tax and delivery.

Office (228) 678-0971 Cell (228) 234-9115 JRegister@registermetals.com w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

20

J U LY 2 0 1 8

SUPER COUPON

SUPER COUPON

FREE

Customer Rating

3-1/2" SUPER BRIGHT ALUMINUM FLASHLIGHT

900 Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com

SUPER COUPON

RAPID PUMP 1.5 TON LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM FLOOR JACK

• 3-1/2 pumps lifts most vehicles • Lifts from 3-1/2" to 14-1/8" • Weighs 34 lbs.

• Air delivery: 5.8 CFM @ 40 PSI 4.7 CFM @ 90 PSI

NOW

99

$5 9 $

79

COMPARE TO $

K TOOL

$

Customer Rating

99

SAVE $ 65

12568

MODEL: KTI63094

ITEM 68053 62160/62496 62516/60569 shown

99

229

SUPER COUPON

SUPER COUPON

6.5 HP (212 CC) OHV AIRLESS PAINT HORIZONTAL SHAFT SPRAYER KIT GAS ENGINE Customer Rating

$

$99 119

99

$

SAVE $ 230

COMPARE TO $

GRACO

ITEM 62915 60600 shown

MODEL: 262800

99

ITEM 63255/63254 shown COMPARE TO $

72" x 80" MOVING BLANKET

BRIGGS & STRATTON

17444

MODEL: 20600

SAVE $ 94

COMPARE TO

899 $

BLUE HAWK

MODEL: 77280

SAVE 70%

19

ITEM 69505 62418 66537 shown

SNAP-ON

710

MODEL: CT8850PDB, CTB8185, CTC720

IRWIN

$

4999

MODEL: 2000020293

SAVE 60%

ITEM 62314/63066 66383 shown

99

$4 9

$ 99

SAVE 50%

ITEM 69955/69594 64284/42292 shown

NOW

COMPARE TO

SHELTER LOGIC

$

MODEL: 76377

ITEM 69087/60379/91616 shown LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

ITEM 62340/62546/63104/96289 shown $ 06 COMPARE TO

28

BLACK & DECKER

MODEL: HG1300

SAVE 67%

SUPER COUPON

199

99

GRIZZLY

$

99

$129

534

MODEL: H7723

SAVE $ 404

$

ITEM 93454/69054/63395/62603 shown

159

99

Tools sold separately.

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 10/30/18.

99

298

OSHA / $ 99 ANSI COMPLIANT LITTLE GIANT MODEL: XE M17 $189 ITEM 63418/63419/62656/67646/62514/63417 shown

COMPARE TO

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

$

1499

SUPER COUPON

POWDER-FREE NITRILE GLOVES PACK OF 100 • 5 mil thickness

NOW

$999

NOW

COMPARE TO

Customer Rating

NOW

SUPER COUPON

60" HARDWOOD WORKBENCH WIRELESS SECURITY ALERT SYSTEM WITH 4 DRAWERS Customer Rating

Customer Rating

• Safe + secure + stable • Super strong - holds 300 lbs.

• Weighs 34 lbs.

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

SUPER COUPON

1299

5998

SUPER COUPON

1500 WATT DUAL TEMPERATURE HEAT GUN (572°/1112°)

9 9 99 $1 699 $10 $139 SAVE

270 SAVE $ 100 $

ITEM 62859/63055/62860 shown

LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

SUPER COUPON

$

NOW

MODEL: 15504PKSM

Blade sold separately.

LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

• All steel 1.27" diameter tubular frame

NOW

Customer Rating

COMPARE TO

ITEM 61970/69684/61969 shown

SUPER COUPON

99 $

SAVE $119

MODEL: TSS120L

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

NOW

SAVE 85%

2999

Customer Rating

• Drill 28 hole sizes from 1/8" to 3/4"

$8

RYOBI

AUTOMATIC 10 FT. x 17 FT. PORTABLE GARAGE 17 FT. TYPE IA BATTERY FLOAT Customer Rating MULTI-TASK LADDER CHARGER • Versatile - 24 configurations

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

3 PIECE TITANIUM HIGH SPEED STEEL STEP BIT SET

$

COMPARE TO

$899 $1499

SUPER COUPON

Customer Rating

ITEM 63852/64195/63537 shown

9 $1299

NOW

LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

SAVE $ 470

NOW

Customer Rating

COMPARE TO

COLEMAN

SUPER COUPON

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

HEAVY DUTY FOLDABLE ALUMINUM SPORTS CHAIR

$

9 $2399 $25999 85

620 $19999

$

SUPER COUPON

$ 99

1200 TORQUE • 4.0 amp FT. LBS. BOLT BREAKAWAY hour battery NOW

$

800

MODEL: KRBC10TBPES

$1999

SUPER COUPON

COMPARE TO

12" DOUBLE-BEVEL SLIDING COMPOUND MITER SAW Customer Rating

• Laser guide

NOW

99

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

20 VOLT LITHIUM CORDLESS EXTREME TORQUE 1/2" IMPACT WRENCH KIT

Snap-on BLUE-POINT

Customer Rating

NOW

$5

Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, safes, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trencher/backhoe, welders, Admiral, Ames, Bauer, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Fischer, Hercules, Icon, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 10/30/18.

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

SUPER COUPON

99

99

$

COMPARE TO

299 SAVE $ 129

NOW

$

ANY SINGLE ITEM*

$ 99 17999 9 7 1 $ 249 SAVE

ITEM 64032 64030/64033 shown

Customer Rating

Customer Rating

20% OFF

Customer Rating

ITEM 64061/64059 64060 shown YOUR CHOICE OF COLOR

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

SUPER COUPON

• 1.3 GPM • Adjustable spray nozzle

$79

• 15,000 cu. in. of storage • 700 lb. capacity • Weighs 139 lbs.

ITEM 64031

21499

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

1750 PSI ELECTRIC PRESSURE WASHER

30", 5 DRAWER MECHANIC’S CARTS

99

$1 69

329

SUPER COUPON

NOW

99

ITEM 60363/69730 COMPARE TO $ 99 ITEM 69727 shown MODEL: GX200UT2QX2 CALIFORNIA ONLY HONDA

ITEM 69111/63599/62522/62573 63875/63884/63886/63888/69052 shown Cannot be used with other discounts or prior purchases. Original coupon must be presented.

Valid through 10/30/18 while supplies last. Limit 1 FREE GIFT per customer per day.

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

NOW

1

SAVE $ 79

HUSKY MODEL: C201H ITEM 69091/61454/62803/63635/67847 shown

ANY PURCHASE

• 9 LED • Compact, Lightweight COMPARE TO $ 75 RAYOVAC MODEL: BRS9LED-B

NOW

1 49 16999$ $

COMPARE TO

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

Customer Rating

WITH

21 GALLON, 2.5 HP, 125 PSI VERTICAL OIL-LUBE AIR COMPRESSOR

®

SUPER COUPON

$5

28

99 COMPARE TO $ FIRST ALERT MODEL: SFA600

SAVE 65%

ITEM 61910/62447/93068 shown

LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

VENOM $ 99

9

Customer Rating

99

COMPARE TO

MODEL: VEN4145

12¢

PER PAIR

7

$ 99 SAVE 40%

ITEM 61363, 68497, 61360, 61359, 64417, 64418, 68498, 68496 shown LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 10/30/18*

At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means that the specified comparison, which is an item with the same or similar function, was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.

Don’t miss out on this offer.

Visit FordFarmBureauAdvantage.com today!

500

$

Alabama Farmers Federation Members can save up to

20%

BONUS CASH

Members get $500 Bonus Cash* toward the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2017/2018/2019 Ford vehicle!

with rate ID# 00209490 by booking on ChoiceHotels.com or calling 800.258.2847.

Don’t forget about the Built Ford Tough F-150 Sweepstakes!** Text the word SWEEPS to 46786*** to enter! *Program 36238: $500 Bonus Cash offer exclusively for active AL, AR, AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MI, MS, MO, NE, NM, NC, ND, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA Farm Bureau members who are residents of the United States. Offer is valid through 1/2/2019 for the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2017/2018/2019 model year Ford vehicle. Not available on Shelby GT350®, Shelby® GT350R, Mustang BULLITT, Ford GT, Focus RS and F-150 Raptor. This offer may not be used in conjunction with most other Ford Motor Company private incentives or AXZD-Plans. Some customer and purchase eligibility restrictions apply. Must be a member for 30 consecutive days prior to purchase. Limit one Bonus Cash offer per vehicle purchase or lease. Limit of five new eligible vehicle purchases or leases per Farm Bureau member during program period. See your Ford Dealer for complete details and qualifications. **NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. MUST BE LEGAL RESIDENT OF U.S. OR D.C., 21 YEARS OR OLDER WITH VALID DRIVER’S LICENSE TO ENTER AND A CURRENT FARM BUREAU MEMBER. ADDITIONAL RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY. Void where prohibited. Sweepstakes ends 9/30/2018. For entry and official rules with complete eligibility, prize description and other details, visit www.FordFarmBureauAdvantage.com. Sponsored by Ford Motor Company, One American Road, Dearborn, MI 48126. ***Autodialed marketing messages will be sent to the number provided. Consent is not a condition of purchase or entry. Message and data rates may apply.

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

Alfafarmers.org/perks Benefits are subject to change without notice.

22

J U LY 2 0 1 8

As an Alfa Farmers member, you are eligible for a $500 rebate. At Harbin, we are going a step further and offering all Alfa Farmers members an additional $500.

That's $1,000 in instant savings!

Visit www.harbinautomotive.com today to view our entire inventory.

with

with

www.harbinautomotive.com

(800) 239-9111

Federation members are now eligible to receive $500 Bonus Cash* toward the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2016/2017/2018 Ford and $750 Bonus Cash* toward the purchase of a new intelligently designed 2016/2017/2018 Lincoln vehicle!

Visit fordspecialoffer.com/farmbureau/al and chose your vehicle of interest, Ford or Lincoln, to take advantage of this exclusive special offer today! *Some customer and purchase eligibility restrictions apply. Must be an eligible Alabama Farmers Federation member for at least 30 consecutive days and a resident of the United States. This offer may not be used in conjunction with most other Ford Motor Company private incentives or AXZD-Plans. Limit one $500 Bonus Cash offer per vehicle purchase or lease. Limit of five new eligible vehicle purchases or leases per member during program period.

Visit fordspecialoffer.com/farmbureau/al for full program details, or see your Ford dealer today!

What's Up

Buttercup?

By Justin Miller

B

uttercups sound pretty but may pack a punch when it comes to grazing cattle and horses. Not to be confused with daffodils, buttercups are a toxic weed. Livestock usually will not eat buttercups because of their bitter taste. However, producers should monitor fields and use control measures to protect livestock.

Buttercup Characteristics

Dr. Joyce Tredaway, an Alabama Extension weed scientist, said buttercups are found throughout the U.S. but are not native.

“They occur in pastures, hayfields and non-crop areas,” Tredaway said. “You often see them in overgrazed pastures, which is a common characteristic of small-acreage horse operations.

Buttercups thrive in wet,

Alabama has several buttercup species, but the most common are bulbous buttercup and hairy buttercup.

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

compacted soil conditions. You rarely find them in well-drained soil.”

Bulbous buttercup (Ranunculus bulbosus) and hairy buttercup (Ranunculus sardous) are most commonly found in Alabama.

Bulbous buttercups are perennials while hairy buttercups are annuals.

Bulbous buttercups have slightly thickened roots and grow from a bulb-like base called a corm.

Hairy buttercups have a fibrous root system and have no swollen base. Both species spread by seed, but since bulbous buttercups are perennials, the plant also spreads by corms.

Poisonous To Animals

Dr. Courteney Holland, an Alabama Extension animal scientist, said buttercups are poisonous, but livestock generally avoid them.

“Animals will not normally graze buttercups unless forage is not available,” she said. “That makes poisoning uncommon. The toxin is a bitter-tasting oil that irritates the lining of the horse’s mouth and causes gastrointestinal irritation when ingested.”

Holland said horse owners should know the symptoms of buttercup poisoning.

“If a horse had contact with the plant, they may have increased salivation, blistering of the mouth and swelling of the nose,” Holland

24

Generally, the highest concentration of the toxin is in the stem and leaves of the plant. It can also be found in the fresh leaves and flowers at concentrations of 1-2 percent. said. “If ingested, horses may exhibit several signs including decreased appetite, colic and diarrhea. Seizures, convulsions and paralysis rarely happen.”

Control Options

Tredaway said prevention is key to controlling buttercups, but herbicides are often needed.

“Any broadleaf herbicide will control buttercup as long as it is small,” Tredaway said.

“Decide which herbicide to use by identifying what other weeds you are targeting. Timing is critical for herbicides to be effective. The best time to spray is late winter to early spring. Good coverage is necessary, so forages must be lower than the buttercups for the herbicide to be effective.”

If flowers have formed, it is too late for herbicides.

“Mow before flowers produce seed,” she said. “That will reduce spread in the next year. However, understand perennial bulbous buttercups can still spread if mowed too closely.” n Photos courtesy of Landon Marks, Alabama Extension regional agent of animal science and forages.

J U LY 2 0 1 8

Chicks soybeans soyb eans

©2012 United Soybean Board [44373]

So do pigs, cows and fish. In fact, animal ag is your number one customer – consuming 98 percent of your soybean meal. That’s one good-looking figure.

By Lois Chaplin

A

basic farm item — the galvanized metal stock tank — is finding new life a little closer to the house. A stock tank makes a nice, small water garden, adaptable anywhere there is access to electricity for a pump. Instead of digging and lining an in-ground water garden, the tank allows gardeners to enjoy a water feature almost instantly. With a fountain or bubbler, a water garden like this offers the sound of running water on a patio, too. And when the time comes, it’s easy to undo.

While quick and easy compared to an in-ground water garden, creating a water garden in a stock tank calls for a few careful steps.

First, the site needs prep to be smooth and level. On soft soil, a 3-inch base of fine gravel helps keep the heavy tank from slanting sideways if it should sink into the ground. Other supplies include pea gravel or sand, a pump, containers and supports for plants, and fish.

In Alabama’s hot climate, a

big tank at least 18 inches deep is best, especially if holding fish.

Some afternoon shade also helps.

To circulate and filter the water, match or exceed the pump capacity to the tank’s capacity. A pump is optional in a tank without fish, but helps keep the water oxygenated and clean. In addition, a bubbler or fountain stirs the surface water to prevent mosquitoes. Minnows will eat mosquitoes, but beware that they will be attractive to raccoons, who can tear up the garden when going after the fish. Never dispose of fish in local streams or lakes.

Like plants, fish can also become invasive.

Fill the tank a week before adding fish and plants so chlorine in the water can evaporate. Using dechlorinator drops according to label directions is also an option.

The water might turn green at first, but usually balances and clears after a few weeks. Other ideas include purchasing beneficial bacteria “starter” to help keep the

water clear or letting nature take its course. Introduce fish two at a time because at first, the pond doesn’t have the proper bacteria to process waste from the fish, so the water fouls quickly.

For gardeners, the most fun part is choosing and placing plants to adorn the water garden. Pot plants in ordinary black plastic containers or fabric pots. Plants may already be in containers, but when moving into another container, don’t use regular potting soil. Use fine gravel, sand or a special mix made for aquatic plants.

Three types of plants work together to create a healthy environment in the water: underwater oxygenators, edge plants and plants that cover the surface for shade. Water lilies are the most popular surface plants.

Adjust the elevation of their pots with bricks so the leaves reach the surface. Tropical lilies smell great in bloom but are killed by freezing weather. Hardy lilies come back each spring. Edge plants sit atop a concrete block standing on end so they are just barely below or break the surface. Put them in pretty containers because the pots are visible.

Oxygenator plants stay submerged to help keep the water clean and add oxygen. A good choice is true elodea (Elodea canadensis). Avoid milfoil, hydrilla and anacharis (sometimes called elodea, too), which are invasive.

Before buying plants, check them against lists of invasive aquatic plants for Alabama and surrounding states. Some waterways have become badly infested with aquarium and water garden species.

Check online forums on water gardening to learn from others. n Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

WARM WEATHER - COOL SAVINGS • WWW.ALAFARM.COM w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

26

J U LY 2 0 1 8

COUNTY FEDERATION ANNUAL MEETINGS J U LY 2 0 1 8

COUNTY

DATE

TIME

BUILDING

ADDRESS

CITY

AUTAUGA

Wed., Aug. 15

7:00 PM

Autauga County Ag Center

2224 Hwy. 14 W

Autaugaville

BALDWIN

Thu., Aug. 23

7:00 PM

Baldwin County Federation Office

21332 Hwy. 59

Robertsdale

BARBOUR

Thu., Aug. 9

7:30 PM

Texasville Community Center

2429 County Rd. 53

Clayton

BLOUNT

Thu., Aug. 16

6:30 PM

Frank J. Green Building

415 5th Ave. East

Oneonta

BULLOCK

Thu., Aug. 16

6:30 PM

Greenway Sportsman’s Lodge

2621 Hwy. 223

Union Springs

CALHOUN

Thu., Aug. 9

6:30 PM

Calhoun County 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

6:30 PM

Dean Buttram Senior Center

229 Dean Buttram Ave.

Centre

CHILTON

Tue., Aug. 14

7:00 PM

Alfa Office

301 1st St. N

Clanton

CHOCTAW

Tue., Aug. 21

6:00 PM

Alfa Service Center

229 S. Mulberry Ave.

Butler

CLARKE

Tue., Aug. 28

6:30 PM

Alfa Service Center

148 S. Jackson St.

Grove Hill

CLAY

Thu., Aug. 23

6:30 PM

Miss Anita’s Café

30 South Park Dr.

Lineville

CLEBURNE

Tue., Aug. 14

6:30 PM

The Mountain Center

6751 Hwy. 78

Heflin

COFFEE

Tue., July 10

6:30 PM

Community Room

1055 E. McKinnon St.

New Brockton

COLBERT

Mon., Aug. 27

6:30 PM

Hospitality House NWS College

800 George Wallace Blvd.

Muscle Shoals

CONECUH

Tue., Aug. 14

6:00 PM

David Burt Building

102 Liberty St.

Evergreen

COOSA

Thu., Aug. 9

6:30 PM

Old Rockford Schoolhouse

Nixburg Rd. & County Rd. 18

Rockford

COVINGTON

Thu., Aug. 23

6:30 PM

Oakwood Lodge

13725 Brooklyn Rd.

Andalusia

CULLMAN

Thu., Aug. 9

7:00 PM

Cullman Farmers Federation Building

307 Main Ave. SW

Cullman

DALE

Mon., Aug. 13

7:00 PM

Dale County Government Building

202 Hwy. 123 S

Ozark

DEKALB

Tue., Aug. 21

6:30 PM

Alfa Service Center

346 McCurdy Ave. S

Rainsville

ELMORE

Tue., July 17

7:00 PM

Wetumpka High School

1281 Coosa River Pkwy.

Wetumpka

ESCAMBIA

Tue., Aug. 21

6:00 PM

Ag Center

175 Ag Science Dr.

Brewton

ETOWAH

Mon., Aug. 13

6:30 PM

Etowah County Federation Office

125 Broad St.

Gadsden

FAYETTE

Tue., Aug. 14

6:30 PM

Lawrence Mill Club

490 Hwy 129

Fayette

FRANKLIN

Tue., Aug. 14

7:00 PM

Best Western Plus Russellville

13770 HWY 43

Russellville

GENEVA

Tue., Aug. 21

7:00 PM

Geneva County Farm Center

2765 E. State Hwy. 52

Hartford

HENRY

Tue., Aug. 7

7:00 PM

Wiregrass Research & Extension Center

167 E. State Hwy. 134

Headland

HOUSTON

Thu., Aug. 30

6:30 PM

Alfa Service Center

1038 Ross Clark Circle NE

Dothan

JACKSON

Tue., Aug. 7

6:30 PM

Jackson County Federation Office

23625 John T. Reid Pkwy.

Scottsboro

LAMAR

Mon., Aug. 13

6:30 PM

Vernon City Complex

44425 AL 17

Vernon

LAUDERDALE

Mon., Aug. 13

7:00 PM

Lauderdale County Extension Building-Ag Center

802 Veterans Dr.

Florence

LAWRENCE

Thu., Aug. 9

6:30 PM

Lawrence County Ag Center

13075 Ala-157

Moulton

LEE

Mon., July 30

6:30 PM

Lazenby Farms

11546 Lee Rd. 54

Auburn

LIMESTONE

Thu., Aug. 16

6:30 PM

First National Bank

1880 US Hwy. 72 E

Athens

MACON

Mon., Aug. 6

6:30 PM

Beck’s Turf Farm

2858 County Rd. 53

Tuskegee

MADISON

Mon., Aug. 6

5:30 PM

Early Works Museum

404 Madison St. SE

Huntsville

MARION

Fri., Aug. 10

6:30 PM

Tombigbee Electric Co-Op

3196 Co. Rd. 55

Hamilton

MARSHALL

Tue., Aug. 28

7:00 PM

Marshall County Federation Office

1333 Blount Ave.

Guntersville

MOBILE

Thu., July 26

7:00 PM

Jon Archer Center

1070 Schillinger Road N

Mobile

MONROE

Thu., Aug. 30

6:30 PM

Monroe County Soil & Water Building

334 Agriculture Dr.

Monroeville

MONTGOMERY

Thu., Aug. 16

6:00 PM

Alfa Home Office

2108 E. South Blvd.

Montgomery

MORGAN

Fri., Aug. 10

6:30 PM

Hartselle Civic Center

406 Nance Ford Rd. SW

Hartselle

PIKE

Thu., July 12

7:00 PM

Alfa Service Center

1208 S. Brundidge St.

Troy

RANDOLPH

Sat., Aug. 18

5:30 PM

Randolph County Ag Center

2959 County Rd. 333

Wedowee

SHELBY

Mon., Aug. 20

6:30 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

SUMTER

Mon., July 16

7:00 PM

Alfa Service Center

106 Marshall Street

Livingston

TALLADEGA

Thu., Aug. 17

7:00 PM

Alfa Service Center

314 East Battle St.

Talladega

TALLAPOOSA

Tue., Aug. 28

6:00 PM

Tallapoosa County Farmers Federation Building

111 North Tallassee St.

Dadeville

TUSCALOOSA

Thu., Aug. 16

7:00 PM

Bobby Miller Center

350 Bobby Miller Pkwy.

Tuscaloosa

WALKER

Tue., Aug. 28

6:30 PM

Walker County Farmers Federation Building

903 Airport Rd. S

Jasper

WASHINGTON

Mon., Aug. 13

7:00 PM

Alfa Service Center

54 Court Street

Chatom

WILCOX

Thu., July 26

7:30 PM

Gaines Ridge

933 AL - 10

Camden

WINSTON

Thu., Sept. 13

6:00 PM

Bernice Hilton Walker Community Center

11 Blake Dr.

Double Springs

27

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

By Jill Clair Gentry

P

ork is the third-most consumed meat in the U.S. Americans eat an average of 50 pounds of pork per person each year — that’s close to 16 billion pounds annually.

It’s not a secret why pork is so popular — it’s flavorful, affordable and versatile, in addition to being packed with protein and nutrients.

Contrary to past portrayals, lean cuts of pork are as beneficial for a heart-healthy diet as chicken.

Rickey and Tanya Frasier of Etowah County raise hogs and sell custom pork locally. They eat their own pork nearly every day.

“We use pork in place of beef in recipes a lot,” Tanya said. “We grill a ton, and we always have pork with breakfast — we love sausage and biscuits. Our daughter, Julie, and our three grandchildren live close, so they have breakfast with us a lot. I fry the sausage, and Julie makes the biscuits.”

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

One special way Tanya likes to use pork is in breakfast foods for people who have lost loved ones.

Seventeen years ago, the Frasiers tragically lost their son. They were flooded with food, but noticed no one thought about breakfast.

“When you’re grieving, you don’t want to cook, so you usually just don’t eat in the morning,” Tanya said. “One morning, we woke up and, as usual, weren’t going to eat breakfast, but then someone showed up with sausage biscuits. It was such a blessing, and I’ve always remembered how much that meant to us.”

Now, Tanya always cooks a breakfast casserole for others who are grieving.

“That way, they can just pop it in the oven and don’t have to do any prep work,” she said.

“Breakfast is so important, and I like to make sure people have something ready to go.”

28

BREAKFAST CASSEROLE Courtesy of Tanya Frasier Start-to-finish: 1 hour, plus overnight (15 minutes active)

6 slices bread, cubed 1 stick butter, melted 1 pound bulk sausage, browned, drained and crumbled 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese, more if desired 4 eggs 2 cups milk 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard In a small bowl, dip the cubed bread into the melted butter.

In a deep 9-by-13-inch casserole dish, layer butter-soaked bread cubes, sausage and cheese. In a medium bowl, beat eggs and stir in milk and dry ingredients. Pour over casserole. Cover and refrigerate overnight before cooking. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes at 350 F. J U LY 2 0 1 8

BRINING PORK CHOPS (A simple brine can make pork chops the star of a weeknight menu. Brining breaks down muscle tissue, draws in moisture and adds flavor.)

2 quarts water, divided 1/2 cup salt 3 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon peppercorns (optional) 2 cloves garlic, crushed (optional) Bay leaf (optional) Fresh or dried thyme (optional) Combine 1 quart of water with other ingredients in a large pot; bring to simmer. Remove from heat when salt and sugar dissolve. Add 1 quart cold water to bring brine to room temperature. Add pork chops, cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours. Cook as desired.

SLOW COOKER PULLED PORK BARBECUE Start-to-finish: 10 hours, 20 minutes (20 minutes active)

Rub: 3 tablespoons smoked paprika 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon dry mustard 3 tablespoons kosher salt

4-6 pound bone-in Boston butt Aluminum foil

CREAM CHEESE STUFFED MINI PEPPERS Courtesy of Tanya Frasier Start-to-finish: 45 minutes (25 minutes active)

1 pound fresh sweet mini peppers 1 pound mild sausage 1/2 cup onion, minced 1 8-ounce block cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or colby jack cheese, plus more for topping Cut peppers in half, lengthwise, and remove F. ribs and seeds. Place on greased baking sheet. Heat oven to 350 Drain. . onions d Meanwhile, brown sausage with mince Combine cream cheese, cheese and sausage; mix well. Place sausage mixture in peppers and bake 20 minutes. Top with more cheese and place in oven for additional 5 minutes, if desired.

Did You Know?

Sauce: Pan drippings (not the fat) from the slow cooker after pork is done 3/4 cup ketchup 1/4 cup brown sugar 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Combine all rub ingredients in resealable jar. Rub 2-4 tablespoons over Boston butt. Make three small balls of aluminum foil and place in the bottom of slow cooker (this keeps the meat from getting soggy). Place pork on aluminum foil balls and cook on low 8-10 hours. The bone should slide out with no resistance when done.

For sauce, remove pork from slow cooker. Skim fat from top and strain meat drippings through fine mesh strainer. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar and meat drippings. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Lower heat and simmer until sauce reaches desired thickness.

The safe internal temperature for pork is 145 F. Overcooked pork can be tough and flavorless — use an instant-read thermometer and stop cooking at 145 F for cuts like pork chops and pork loin. Ground pork should be cooked to 160 F. After cooking pork, it should rest for three minutes. n J U LY 2 0 1 8

29

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