Neighbors Magazine July 2022

July 2022 | Volume 47 | Number 7 Marlee Moore | 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 Jon Hegeman | Vice President | Central, Anniston George Jeffcoat | Vice President | Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper | Vice President | Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn | Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Dorman Grace | Jasper Mark Byrd | Danville John Bert East | Leesburg Steve Lake | Vinemont Joe Anders | Northport Phillip Hunter | Birmingham Joe Lambrecht | Wetumpka Jimmy Holliman | Marion Junction Bill Cook | Montgomery Trip Horne | Louisville Mark Kaiser | Seminole Thomas Adams | Newville Lydia Haynes | Cullman Mitchell Henry | Moulton 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. POSTMASTER Send address changes to Neighbors P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001 MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org 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.

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In This Issue 4 | Young Farm Families Vie For Top Title

31 | Blueberry Bliss With The Alabama Gardener

7 | Ag Law & You: Tax Talk 9 | Teaching The Teachers At AITC Summer Institute 12 | Ministry Helps Youth Catch A Second Chance 20 | Alfa Farmers, Insurance

Welcome Summer Interns

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On The Cover

Alabama farmers are Down To Earth, efficiently growing plants and animals.

They’re also sustaining the farm for the next generation, such as Charlie Upchurch, son of Clay County farmers Chris and Jordyn Upchurch.

Photo By Marlee Moore

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www.AlfaFarmers.org

EDQM

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation

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Meet Alabama’s Outstanding Young Farm Family Finalists

By Marlee Moore hree hard-working couples are in T the running to be Alabama’s 2022 Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF).

This year’s finalists, chosen after an intense application and interview process, are Mitchell and Rebecca Henry, Lawrence County; Brady and Anna Peek, Limestone County; and Daniel and Carla Trantham, Calhoun County.

OYFF applicants, who are 18-35 years old, must have 50% or more of

their income subject to production risk.

Following on-farm judging this summer, Alabama’s OYFF will be named during the Alabama Farmers Federation Farm & Land Expo in Birmingham Aug. 6 and will score over $70,000 in prizes.

The prize package includes $40,000 toward a Ford truck courtesy of Alfa Insurance; a Gator from Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; a year’s lease on a John Deere tractor from SunSouth and TriGreen; and an all-expenses-paid trip to the American Farm Bureau Federation national

competition in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in January. All finalists received a Blackstone Griddle Package from the Federation.

than anything else,” said Mitchell, 28.

“I pushed hard to build the farm while at Auburn. I knew Rebecca was the one for me when I learned about her upbringing (on a cattle farm) and appreciation for hard work.”

The fifth-generation farmers annually manage 1,000 stocker cattle in Lawrence County, building on a foundation laid by Mitchell’s grandparents.

“Instead of buying high-risk calves from the sale barn, I purchase higher-quality livestock, which produces higher-quality beef,” said Mitchell, the Alabama Farmers Federation State Young Farmers Committee chair and a member of Agricultural Leaders For Alabama.

Mitchell has fine-tuned growing and harvesting corn silage and hay since

joining the farm full time. He mixes that base with protein-packed soy, wheat, corn or other ingredients, depending on cost, availability and calves’ needs.

The Henrys have increased efficiency while reducing stress by working cattle on horseback; adding concrete pads near feed bunks to decrease mud; and increasing the adjustment period before working new cattle. That’s lowered disease and mortality rates, too.

In the last year, they’ve bought hay equipment and added a trucking business to haul feed and fertilizer. The Henrys are growing a cow-calf herd and have sold beef directly to consumers.

The couple, who attend Moulton Church of Christ, share their farm story through Young Farmers and Farm-City committees, in addition to social media.

“Social media has been huge for us to help people connect with farmers,” said Rebecca, 29. “On my pharmacy school application, I wrote I wanted to work for a small pharmacy, live in a small town and be married to a farmer. I can’t wait to get home every day and hop in the feed truck with Mitchell.”

The Henry Family Lawrence County

n plush pastureland tucked inside O the Moulton city limits, Mitchell and Rebecca Henry are fulfilling a dream cultivated when the farmer-pharmacist duo met at Auburn University.

“We’d rather be working on the farm

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Sponsors

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growing a business.

I focus on planting a seed and protecting that plant all the way to harvest.”

An affinity for farming prompted Brady to plant 100 acres of soybeans in 2010. Today, he and wife Anna continue to increase efficiency on their 1,700-acre corn, cotton, wheat and soybean farm.

To spread risk, increase flexibility and market grain when prices are better, the Peeks built a grain bin. A second is in the works.

“This year, we sold 20% of our crop at harvest; we previously sold our entire crop at harvest,” said Brady, the 2021 Alabama Farmers Federation State Young Farmers Committee chair. “That put us in the trucking business moving grain.”

The Peeks routinely trade equipment

— a two-fold value.

“Everything is for sale,” Brady said with a smile. “Most farms look at equipment as a cost, but ours is a tool that lets us grow a crop and continually upgrade to more modern equipment.”

Anna’s quiet direction balances Brady’s bolder leadership style. The fifth-grade teacher incorporates agriculture into lesson plans at Athens Intermediate School.

“We live in a rapidly growing urban area, so it’s important to teach kids about ag,” said Anna, 28, an Ag In The Classroom grant recipient. “When I’m off in the summer, I help on the farm.

Brady and I just work well together.”

The Peeks attend Oakland Church of Christ and are involved in Limestone County Young Farmers. Anna serves on the local Women’s Leadership Committee, while Brady is part of the State Wheat & Feed Grain Committee, Agricultural Leaders For Alabama and national associations.

“We love to farm, and we want to farm,” Brady said. “Everything we’ve done is a move for tomorrow.”

Sadie, Anna Kate, Sawyer and Callie soaking up fresh air, freedom and family time. “This is what childhood is supposed to be like.”

A similar upbringing set the stage for Daniel to grow his family’s row crop, cattle and feed business after joining the operation in 2010.

“I’m most proud of our commercial feed business,” said Daniel, 34. “People wanted to buy feed, so once we saw we could fill that need, we went back to planting more corn and wheat.”

The Tranthams bag and sell 80 tons of feed and grain weekly at their storefront in Alexandria and through feed stores.

Direct marketing reduces price fluctuations and offers a steady stream of revenue. They also sell wheat straw and Bermudagrass hay while improving

yields on 1,000 acres of corn, wheat, soybeans and cotton through irrigation and seed selection.

Since 2010, Daniel has more than doubled grain storage and more than tripled his cattle herd to 300 head.

“We’re part of a cooperative of farmers growing uniform calves to sell to feedlots,” Daniel said. “We implement strict weaning protocols, have improved feed rations and can sell our calves three months earlier than we used to.”

Daniel’s family also operates a trucking company, where Carla manages payroll.

The Tranthams prioritize family time and worship at Leatherwood Baptist Church, in addition to agricultural advocacy. Daniel is the local Young Farmers chair and serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation State Soybean Committee. Carla is on the local Women’s Leadership Committee.

“I feel blessed to be born into this life, but it’s a huge responsibility to keep it going,” Daniel said. “I don’t feel like I go to work. I get up every day and just do our life.”

The Peek Family Limestone County

trading equipment to improving Fspentrom infrastructure, Brady Peek has more than a decade growing his Limestone County farm.

“I like to grow things,” said Brady, 29. “As a farmer, I can grow a crop while

The Trantham Family Calhoun County

ive pairs of little legs weave through FDaniel rows of perfectly planted corn near and Carla Trantham’s Calhoun

County home.

“I would not trade this for the world,” said Carla, 34, motioning to Davis,

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Thanks to a new law passed in 2022, grain bins can’t be assessed as part of a property’s value when calculating property taxes.

$ $ $ $

Tax Talk

avigating tax law can be N challenging, even for experts.

However, tax benefits help Alabama

farmers increase efficiency, grow their operations and strengthen local economies.

The Alabama Farmers Federation prioritized two new benefits in the 2022 Legislative Session. The Alabama Department of Revenue will release administrative rules later this year.

The first is an exemption related to grain storage facilities. Historically, assessing grain bins across the state varied. Now, grain bins cannot be assessed as part of a property’s value when calculating property taxes. If a property owner believes their county may have incorrectly assessed their property value, they can submit a “Petition for Review Form” at revenue. alabama.gov/assessments.

Another new law clarifies the exemption for producer value-added

products. If a producer adds value to an agricultural product they produced, they are not required to charge sales tax on that product. The law also allows the farmer’s immediate family members and employees to make sales, as long as those employees assisted in producing the original product. This applies to items including Alabama-grown and -made jams and jellies.

This benefit operates in conjunction with two current exemptions. These exemptions, found in Alabama Code 40-23-4(a)(5) and 40-23-62(8), allow producers to sell products they grow, raise and produce without charging sales tax. This includes plants, eggs, honey and livestock.

Alabama law also exempts a variety of agricultural inputs from sales tax, including feed, seed and fertilizer when used for an agricultural purpose.

Alabama Code 40-23-4 lists items for the exemption.

Farm machinery, which includes machines and equipment used in

planting, cultivating and harvesting farm products, is taxed at a reduced rate when compared to other machinery and equipment. In Alabama, these items are taxed at 1.5% of gross sale proceeds.

This also applies to machines and equipment used in connection with producing livestock and poultry.

No discussion of Alabama taxes would be complete without mentioning current use, which helps Alabama farm families afford to remain on their farms. Increasing land values, especially around urban areas, would make property taxes cripplingly high for farmers. Current use assesses property at its current use value, rather than its speculative market value. Farmers can check the status of their property with their county revenue office.

While items discussed here are a great starting point for discussion, farmers should contact a licensed attorney or accountant for specific tax advice.

Alabama tax exemptions allow farmers to sell products they grow, raise and produce without charging sales tax. This includes plants, eggs, livestock and honey.

The material presented above is for educational purposes only. The content does not constitute legal advice. If readers require specific advice or services, a lawyer or other professional should be consulted. alfafarmers.org

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Summer School: Teachers Learn To Add Ag To Their Classrooms

Teachers toured RL&M Cattle Co. in Chambers County during Ag In The Classroom Summer Institute farm visits.

On the tour, farmer Jack Robertson explained production methods used at the cattle operation.

By Josie Chance urriculum focused on cattle, C row crops and wildlife resources filled the class schedule for nearly

80 educators at Alabama Ag In The Classroom (AITC) Summer Institute June 1-3 in Opelika.

It was Beauregard Elementary School teacher Emily Jennings’ first time at AITC Summer Institute. She said she is excited to take lessons learned back to her students.

“There is a big push right now for STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education, and that is what ag is,” Jennings said. “Ag is the solution to every standard I need to fulfill, and it is being offered here as a free resource.

I can’t say ‘no’ to that.”

Teachers, Alabama Cooperative Extension System agents and Alabama Association of Conservation Districts coordinators visited farms and related

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Left: State Rep. Prince Chestnut, D-Selma, discussed education, funding and its impact on students with Emily Jennings from Beauregard Elementary School.

Above: LeAnn Jones from Autauga Academy received a box of teaching supplies from Federation Area 7 Organization Director Guy Hall.

industries to learn from experts. Stops included the Southeastern Raptor Center, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dixon Farms in Lee County and RL&M Cattle Co. in Chambers County. At RL&M Cattle Co., Jack Robertson thanked teachers for

their work.

“We rely on y’all to raise these kids,” he said, addressing the teachers who toured his cattle operation. “We want to do whatever we can to help y’all do what you do best. If you need us, call us. We’re here for y’all.”

In addition to farm visits, teachers learned how to integrate agriculture into their curriculum and subject standards through hands-on activities. They also received continuing education credits and took home more than $450 in supplies, including books, magazines, July 2022

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posters and more. A handful of teachers won composting packets, soy kits and incubators for chicken eggs.

Chambers County farmer Kim Slay was part of a lunch panel that fielded questions from attendees. Slay, a former educator, encouraged teachers to help students discover all the occupations available in food production.

“We need kids in research and development,” Slay said. “We need those fresh ideas. They can think outside the box and help us.”

Other panelists were Lamar Dewberry from Clay County and Beth Hornsby and Mahlon Richburg from Lee County.

AITC Committee Chair Kim Earwood said she is always excited to foster relationships at Summer Institute.

“Our teachers are on the front lines of raising our most important people, our kids,” Earwood said. “We want them to know we are not giving them another box to check or another lesson to add before the end of the day. Our goal is to inspire teachers to view the world around them through different eyes and share that excitement with the young, curious minds of our state.”

New this year, the Alabama House of Representatives Ways and Means Education Committee, Alabama State Board of Education members, local legislators and State Superintendent

Teachers wrapped up the conference with hands-on activities to replicate in their classrooms.

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Garrett Dixon explained peanut production practices to Alabama educators who toured his Lee County farm during Ag In The Classroom Summer Institute.

of Education Dr. Eric Mackey attended AITC Summer Institute to learn how the program benefits youth, teachers and Alabama agriculture. Rep. Prince Chestnut, D-Selma, said agriculture fits the bill to get youth involved in constructive activities.

“Anytime you bring youth into agriculture, they grow up to be self-sufficient,” Chestnut said. “Many students go to college and have no idea what they want to become. If we give youth more options, more will step forward and say, ‘I want to be involved in agriculture; this is a viable option.’”

Shelley Jones, a special education teacher from Breakthrough Charter School in Perry County, has attended AITC Summer Institute for nearly two decades. She said the conference helps her discover new teaching methods to use across subjects. She also thanked institute coordinators for time and effort put into AITC Summer Institute, as she sees the impact it has on students.

“Thank you so much for this opportunity,” Jones said. “Thank you for spending your dollars to educate our children, and thank you to the farmers who feed us.”

Teachers enjoyed learning about the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, its training program and research to promote safe, biosecure food production. alfafarmers.org

Fishers Of Young Men And Women

By Jeff Helms shrieks brightened a gloomy Jandoyful day this spring as 18 young anglers 50 volunteers gathered at Spiller

Farm in Dale County for Second Chance Ministries’ (SCM) Fishing Day. “The common thing among these kids is most of them have at least one absent parent,” said Alabama Farmers Federation Area 8 Organization Director and SCM founder Boyd Deal. “Some are deceased; some aren’t involved in their child’s life. We’re trying to share a little love with these kids, show them God’s beautiful creation and let them catch some fish.”

Deal, who lost his father to cancer at

age 10, was inspired to start the ministry following a hunting trip with a friend’s nephew, Bo Stewart.

“I took Bo hunting in 2017. He had lost his father, and I had lost my father,” Deal recalled. “At the time, I really didn’t think anything about it. But after being with him that afternoon, I got home and told my wife, ‘I don’t know what God is going to do with this, but he’s absolutely laid a heavy burden on my heart to do something with kids who have an absent parent.’”

A year later, SCM was formed with the help of Ariton Baptist Church.

Besides Fishing Day, the group

Bo Stewart, right, inspired Boyd Deal to found Second Chance Ministries, which helps youth who have an absent parent get active in the outdoors.

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hosts an annual deer hunt. The kids also receive gifts from generous donors, such as matching Zebco fishing gear and tackle boxes filled with everything needed to reel in a platter-size bluegill or bass.

Though Deal and Bo’s first hunting trip was a bust, it founded a friendship built on shared experience and mutual love for the outdoors.

“When I first went hunting with him, I didn’t know Mr. Boyd that well,” said Bo, now 15. “But over the years, we’ve gotten really close. He goes to all my games. He’s a nice guy and kind of knows what I’m going through.”

Bo’s mom, Becky, said SCM has shown Bo and her daughters, Cate and Ann Presley, Christian love in action.

“I love that this shows men who love hunting and fishing and tying that in with their relationship with Christ and ability to serve — which is what God calls us to do,” she said.

Fishing Day volunteers included Henry County Farmers Federation Young Farmers; Dale County Farmers Federation President Chris Carroll and his family; Federation Agricultural Legislation Director Preston Roberts and his son, Sam; Ariton Baptist Church members; and people who shared their stories for a book Deal compiled, which helps fund the ministry.

“My Struggle, His Glory” captures testimonies about overcoming hardship — from death, disease and divorce to alfafarmers.org

bankruptcy and brokenness. Deal felt called to publish the book in 2018. His goal was to collect 40 stories spanning 17 topics and 100,000 words.

“When God gives you a challenge, he will bless it, if it’s what he wants to happen,” Deal said. “I remember lying in bed truly in tears saying, ‘God, I know you told me to do this. I know I didn’t misunderstand,’ but I couldn’t get the last few stories. I said, ‘I’m going to give it back to you. If you want it to happen, you make it happen. If you don’t, I’m good with that. I just want you to know I’m going to be obedient and do what you asked me to do.’ The next day, we got three testimonies.”

The book includes contributions from Deal and wife Leah, as well as Federation members and staff, Alfa Insurance employees and other friends and acquaintances. Federation Graphic Designer Laura Unger illustrated the cover.

Becky said “My Struggle, His Glory” gave her and Cate, now 19, a chance to write about how their faith and relationship grew following the death of her husband, Chad, at age 41.

“Chad was huge outdoorsman,” she said. “He loved to hunt and fish and be on the land. This ministry offers the things he loved. Seeing Bo learn to love hunting and fishing through this has to please him so much.”

Deal credits God and those who’ve given their stories, money and time for the success of the book and SCM. He hopes others will start similar ministries and is eager to share what he’s learned.

“In the absence of my dad, I had good, Godly people who invested in my life,” he said. “Some of those were teachers, some were coaches, some were just family friends. That’s what I’m trying to do now — give back to people with that same need.”

“My Struggle, His Glory” is available at Amazon.com. For more information about Second Chance Ministries, email bdeal@alfafarmers.org.

Second Chance Ministries held a fishing trip for children with absent parents in May. The ministry, founded by Alabama Farmers Federation Area 8 Organization Director Boyd Deal, functions thanks to volunteers from Ariton Baptist Church, local Farmers Federations and other community members. alfafarmers.org

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Leaders Bleed Blue And Gold

By Josie Chance

he state capital was flush with blue T corduroy jackets as the cream of the crop met in Montgomery June

7-10 for the 94th annual Alabama FFA Convention.

Excitement filled the air as students milled around booths at the career and trade show; visited with friends from across the state; and competed in contests to develop career skills, such as public speaking, writing, agricultural knowledge, parliamentary procedure, meat evaluation, engineering and education.

Alabama agriculture organizations, including the Alabama Farmers Federation, play a role in the state convention. This year, Federation representatives visited with students over a game of cornhole next to the organization’s popular photo booth inside the trade show. Federation Young Farmers Division Director Hunter McBrayer, who interacted with students, said leaders in this group are the future.

“We are excited to meet with FFA

Right: FFA members played cornhole and visited with Federation staff during state convention.

Below: Federation ag law intern Taylor Jackson handed out T-shirts.

members from all over Alabama and discuss their current and future impact on the agriculture industry,” McBrayer said. “FFA produces strong leaders, and we are blessed to support them.”

Individuals who advocate for agriscience education were inducted into the Alabama FFA Foundation Wall Of Honor. Inductees were Andy

Five individuals were added to the Alabama FFA Foundation Wall of Honor during a luncheon in Montgomery June 8. From left are Joey Haymon, Andy Chamness, Dr. Cynthia McCarty, Dr. Joe Morton and Greg Childree.

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Chamness, former state FFA adviser; Greg Childree, ag teacher from Dale County; Joey Haymon, assistant career tech director in DeKalb County; Dr. Cynthia McCarty, State Board of Education representative for District 6; and Dr. Joe Morton, former state superintendent of education.

FFA also recognized influential leaders for their service to the state organization with honorary FFA degrees.

Honorees included state Rep. Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainsville, who helped secure funds to offset cost of Alabama FFA membership for all agriscience students. Ledbetter serves on the House Ways and Means Education Committee.

Other honorees included Federation Producer Matt Wilson and Agricultural Legislation Director Preston Roberts.

The Federation works with legislators such as Ledbetter to fund career tech education. Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan said these partnerships are crucial to help develop agriculture in Alabama.

“Today’s youth are the future of our state and country,” Pinyan said.

“The Federation believes in providing educators with the tools needed to teach these students so they can, in turn, choose careers that fit their personalities and benefit the industry. It’s a pleasure for our staff, members and partners to invest in programs like FFA.” alfafarmers.org

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Down To Earth:

Alabama Farmers Grow More While Using Less

By Marlee Moore more. Using less. For G“Arowing farmers, it’s just that simple. lot of data is out there to help us

make decisions to improve factors we can control on the farm,” said Jordyn Upchurch, who raises poultry, cattle and hay with husband Chris in Clay County.

For years, farmers and industry experts have analyzed that data to select superior traits in plants and animals.

That’s created innately efficient crops and livestock that glean higher yields with fewer inputs.

Take the poultry industry. Today, it takes 1.82 pounds of feed to produce 1 pound of chicken. Fifty years ago, that required 2.4 pounds of feed, per the National Chicken Council. Chickens 16

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Chris, Jordyn and Charlie Upchurch raise poultry, cattle and hay in Clay County. The Upchurch family — and families across Alabama — tap into a wealth of research from industry sources and their individual farms to efficiently, sustainably raise crops.

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are humanely and efficiently grown in houses, which saves water and energy — a boon in Alabama’s hot climate.

A low feed conversion rate and high Row crop farmer Brian Glenn said improved average daily gains help farmers like the genetics have helped farmers increase yields Upchurches raise more flocks, providing with fewer inputs. more protein for a growing population.

The U.S. is a global leader in beef production efficiency, too, producing 18% of the world’s beef with only 6% of the world’s cattle, according to the Beef Checkoff.

Thanks to improved genetics, nutrition and herd management, U.S. farmers produce more beef per animal.

Today, farmers produce the same amount of beef with one-third fewer cattle than in 1977.

Farmers also pinpoint cattle breeds ideal for their farms and consider heat tolerance, Data banks and a penchant for Don, raise row crops in Lawrence mothering ability, sustainable production helped farmers and Morgan counties. They capitalize weaning weights, nearly triple production over the last 70 on biotechnology, such as genetic yields and even years, while inputs like land, fertilizer modification, to reduce costly inputs what grass the and energy have remained stable, and improve weed management. animals can digest. according to the American Farm Bureau Roughly 90% of corn, cotton and “We pick them Federation. soybeans grown in the U.S. have been for what works in In 1990, farmers would have improved through biotechnology. our environment,” needed almost 100 million additional “Genetics have changed so much,” said Chris, who raises acres to harvest the same amount of Brian said. “The potential is in the seed.”

SimAngus cattle. “We have a corn, cotton, rice, soybeans and wheat Twenty-five years ago, the Glenns lot of fescue grass (which has a produced in 2018. That’s more than the shot for a yield of 130 bushels per seasonal toxicity), so we need animals land area of Montana. acre on corn. Today, they’re able to that work in a fescue environment.”

As Brian looks across fields of harvest 200 bushels an acre. Tools like Jordyn added, “And that makes our non-irrigated, no-till corn and soybeans, variable rate technology help. Variable cattle more efficient. It’s hard to change he said he’s proud of the strides farmers rate farming requires machinery that what kind of grass grows on your place, continually make to efficiently use — and changes the rate at which it applies but you can change your genetics. It’s protect — the land. fertilizer, seed and other inputs across a almost like a process of elimination.”

“My goal is to leave the planet better field based on need.

Other than delicious and nutritious “We are spoon-feeding plants,” Brian than we found it, to make steaks, roasts and burgers, there are a living and ensure said. “We take last year’s yield map hundreds of uses for cattle byproducts a wholesome, (or an average of several years) and — asphalt, ink, dyes, adhesives, plastics quality food calculate the removal of ingredients a and more. crop,” Brian plant will need to grow. That’s what we That waste-not-want-not outlook said. base our rates on.” links row crop and livestock farmers. More than 95% of poultry bedding material is recycled and reused to Feed conversion rate: A ratio of the amount of feed fertilize hayfields or land for required to the amount of weight gained by a farm animal row crops, like cotton. Cotton lint, or fiber, is then made into Average daily gains: Amount of weight a farm animal clothes, towels and dollar bills. gains in a 24-hour period Meanwhile, cottonseed is used Inputs: Farm business expenses, such as fertilizer or feed for oil and cattle feed because it’s rich in fiber, protein and fat.

SimAngus: A mix breed of Simmental and Angus cattle Brian Glenn and his brother,

Down To Earth Definitions

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serving prime

Farmowner coverage. property | Dwelling | machinery | livestock | liability

Find a local agent.

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Booker T. Washington School Students Cheer As Teacher Receives Car From Alfa

By Mary Wilson he band echoed alongside T spirited cheerleaders at Booker T. Washington School, but this wasn’t

Friday night on the gridiron.

The music and cheers hailed achievements in the field of academics as students and administrators celebrated one of their own — fifth grade math teacher Reggie White, Alabama’s 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year.

As this year’s Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) award recipient, White received a year’s use of a new 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, courtesy of Alfa Insurance. He accepted the keys to the car from Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell during a lively press conference May 20 at the school

in downtown Birmingham.

“Teachers are so important. They educate students, but they also work to make sure our young people develop the skills they need to be well-rounded and well-informed adults,” Parnell said.

“We appreciate Mr. White’s work over his more than 25-year career, and I’m very happy Alfa and the Federation can honor him with this car to use during his time as Teacher of the Year.”

A native of Choctaw County, White earned three degrees from Alabama State University in Montgomery.

He changed his major from communications to education after participating in a summer mission trip to San Jose, California, where he helped children learn English.

White came to Birmingham immediately after earning his bachelor’s

From left are Alabama State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey, Birmingham City Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Sullivan, Booker T. Washington School Principal Dr. Antonia Ishman, Alabama Teacher of the Year Reggie White, Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan, Alfa Executive Vice President (EVP) of Operations Tommy Coshatt and Alfa EVP of Marketing Mark Evans. alfafarmers.org

degree in 1996 to teach at Avondale Elementary School. He has spent his career in the Birmingham City School System and earned his National Board Certification in 2007.

“It blows my mind that Alfa would do something like this. If we had everyone in America supporting education the way Alfa has, then education around the world would really change,” White said. “I want you to know, I’m changing my insurance. Any organization that supports education like Alfa has, you have my vote.”

This is the 26th year Alfa has provided the year’s use of a car for the Teacher of the Year, with the Federation covering the cost of auto insurance. Alfa also offers discounts for educators.

As Teacher of the Year, White will serve as a spokesperson for ALSDE and is Alabama’s official candidate for the National Teacher of the Year award.

“The selection of Mr. Reggie White as Alabama’s 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year understandably brings a lot of pride and honor, not only to the educators in the Birmingham area, but across the state. We wish it were possible to acknowledge every teacher individually for their hard work and dedication to their students, parents and communities,” said Alabama Superintendent of Education Dr. Eric Mackey. “Mr. White’s successful tenure is a remarkable testament to the education profession. For the next year, he will serve as the statewide representative for all educators, but the impact he has made in the classroom will carry on for many years to come.”

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Alfa Farmers, Insurance Welcome Summer Interns

Josie

CHANCE

he Alabama Farmers Federation T and Alfa Insurance welcomed four summer interns May 16. Josie Chance,

Maggie COONER

Maggie Cooner, Tanner Hood and Taylor Jackson will serve the state’s farmers through the Federation’s Farm & Land Expo in August.

Mississippi State University (MSU) junior Chance will focus on writing, photography, social media and special promotion projects as the communications intern.

The Brierfield native said she looks forward to learning from the wealth of experience in the Communications Department.

“I’m excited for this opportunity to combine my passion for agriculture and education during my time at the Federation,” said Chance, 20.

At MSU, Chance is pursuing a major in agricultural communications with a public relations minor. She is a member of the Collegiate Livestock Judging Team, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Association and Gamma Beta Phi. Meanwhile, Montgomery native Cooner will expand her marketing major education as she works on product communications, field updates,

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Tanner HOOD

advertising and content creation for social media and print publications.

“An internship with Alfa offers me the opportunity to see the best in the business market insurance products and promote advocacy efforts on behalf of Alabama farmers,” said Cooner, 21. “It’s amazing how the Alfa family makes you feel welcome every day.”

The Auburn University (AU) senior is pursuing a minor in communication and is the Alpha Kappa Psi president and Kappa Alpha Theta archivist.

Moulton native Hood said he is excited to further develop technical skills as the Federation’s broadcast intern.

“I am looking forward to working with farmers in Alabama through the Federation,” said Hood, 21. “I am excited to learn the day-to-day work that happens here and see how the Federation helps farmers. I am also happy to work with such great people and further develop my skills in broadcast and communication.”

Through work on the Federation’s “Simply Southern TV” show and other broadcast projects, Hood will build on his education at AU, where he is a senior

Taylor

JACKSON

pursuing a double major in agricultural communications and Spanish. He is also active with AU’s Collegiate Cattlemen’s Association and the Auburn Christian Student Center.

Jackson is the organization’s inaugural Faulkner University Ag Law Pathway intern and will conduct legal research, analyze proposed regulations, and review and draft contracts and proposals for the Federation.

“I’m so thankful for the opportunity to gain experience in ag law with the Alabama Farmers Federation,” said Jackson, a Montgomery native.

“Alabama has always been home, and I am excited to give back through an organization and industry so vital to my community.”

A 2019 AU graduate, Jackson, 25, majored in communications with a business minor. After graduation, she worked in Atlanta for the College Football Hall of Fame as a marketing intern and The William Carter Co. as digital marketing coordinator.

In addition to individual projects, interns will work together to brainstorm, plan and execute a project benefiting Federation members. alfafarmers.org

Fresh

FACTS:

Consumers Want To Support Local Produce Farmers he following information was T gathered from the Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association

(AFVGA) 2022 Consumer Survey.

For more information or further survey results to help drive marketing decisions, contact AFVGA Executive Director Blake Thaxton by emailing bthaxton@alfafarmers.org.

88.4%

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76% say Alabama-grown produce is higher quality than other products. 72% say it just tastes better.

73.8%

purchase fresh produce at nationwide grocery store chains; 64.7% frequent local grocery stores.

Labeling is crucial. 63% use marketing and packaging to determine local products. Over 38% search for Sweet Grown Alabama products.

57.5% purchase fresh

produce at farmers markets; 21.8% visit on-farm stands.

68.4% would

purchase locally grown products if they were clearly labeled and conveniently available.

locally grown

of consumers say is the most important characteristic when selecting produce.

alfafarmers.org

Ag Day Cultivates A-Plus Fun Elmore County Young Farmers helped with Holtville Ag Day May 12. Clockwise from far left: Jonathan Edgar teaches students about cotton; State Sheep & Goat Committee Chair Melissa Palmer supplied animals for the petting zoo; the forestry station taught students about a plethora of tree products.

By Marlee Moore houts, squeals and a flurry S of questions filled the air as elementary schoolers learned the basics

of growing cotton, cattle and other local crops at Holtville Ag Day May 12.

“It looks like blueberries!” quipped a curious student, pointing to treated seed.

“How do they get the seeds out?” asked another.

“How many machines do you need?”

Standing beside a colossal-tokids cotton picker, Jonathan Edgar patiently answered each question as 400 kindergarten through second-grade students rotated through the event.

“All of them knew what cotton was but had never touched it or seen it up close,” said Edgar, who serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation State Young Farmers Committee. “They all knew the name of our cotton gin but didn’t know what it meant. It was a great opportunity for them to get out of the classroom and see what all

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happens around them, how close ag is to them in their community. It’s not just something on the news or something out West.”

Holtville High School ag teacher Andrew Palmer chairs the Elmore County Young Farmers Committee and revived Ag Day after a decade-long hiatus with help from his FFA students.

“I grew up coming to Ag Day,” Palmer said. “It’s something kids looked forward to for years, so when our committee got the chance to bring it back, it was a no-brainer. I want my students to learn that their food doesn’t come from the grocery store; it comes from farmers. The sooner they learn that, the better.”

At the Alabama Forestry Association station, students learned how trees are “in” products they use and eat daily — toothpaste, syrup, ice cream, macaroni and cheese and more.

“Why does toothpaste stay on your toothbrush?” asked the leader.

Students responded en masse,

“Because it has trees in it!”

Other stations included a petting zoo with goats from Federation State Sheep & Goat Committee Chair Melissa Palmer; the “Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.” trailer from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association; a honeybee exhibit; and farm equipment.

Students were ferried to Ag Day on hayrides.

Young Farmers committees across the state annually organize farm days to herald the end of school. Edgar said he enjoys seeing photos from fellow Young Farmers pepper social media every year.

“Compared to 50 years ago, there’s a huge disconnect between kids and where their food and clothes come from,” Edgar said. “That’s the goal — to educate these kids. They can take the information back and talk to their parents and build understanding. It’s great to have a lot of people coming together for a common goal — to educate kids.”

For tips on organizing a farm day, contact Federation Young Farmers Division Director Hunter McBrayer at hmcbrayer@alfafarmers.org.

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Stanford To Lead Alfa Health yan Stanford joined the Alabama Farmers Federation R as its Alfa Health manager May 9.

In this role, he will help members access Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama products through the Federation home office in Montgomery and Alfa Insurance offices across the state.

Stanford joins the Federation after more than a decade in human Stanford resources at Caddell Construction Co. His experience recruiting talent, formulating policy and negotiating contracts will be invaluable, said Federation Chief Financial Officer Phillip Johns.

“Alfa Health is all about helping members receive ample health care coverage at the best price possible with the best service possible,” said Johns, whose department oversees Alfa Health. “Ryan understands that and is ready to serve our members while leading the Alfa Health team. We’re excited to see the good he and his team will accomplish.”

Stanford earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western Michigan University in 2010.

He has been married seven years to Melanie, a manager in Property & Casualty Underwriting at Alfa Insurance. They live in Montgomery and attend Eastern Hills Baptist Church.

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Work Hard. Travel Easy.

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3 Use your 20% Alabama Farmers Federation discount* at over 6,400 Choice® hotels worldwide 3 Enroll in Choice Privileges® and earn points, with every stay, toward exciting rewards

Three Simple Ways to Book: Web Visit ChoiceHotels.com and enter Rate ID 00209490

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alfafarmers.org

The Graham Farm and Nature Center offers extensive outdoor activities for families.

Public education is the goal of the Graham Farm and Nature Center in Jackson County.

Plan A Trip To The Graham Farm And Nature Center

By Katie Nichols little bit of sunshine, fresh air, A beautiful scenery, a rocking chair and limited cell signals are key

ingredients for rest and relaxation. Find that magic combination at the Graham Farm and Nature Center (GFNC), a little slice of heaven nestled in the Paint Rock Valley of Jackson County.

The GFNC was given to the Alabama Cooperative Extension System in 2012 by the Nita Graham Head family.

The Head family prioritized public education, which led them to donate their land to be used for education and enjoyment.

“We are working to be good stewards of the selfless gift that was entrusted to us,” said GFNC Director Themika Sims. “Working at the farm is a labor of love. It is a lot of hard work but is very rewarding.”

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The Head family intended for the farm to teach youth and adults about natural resources conservation, animal sciences, ecology, historical preservation, youth development, oral history, wildlife management, ornithology, aquatics, and fruit and vegetable production.

Come One, Come All

Sims said the farm is open to the community — but the invitation to visit extends beyond county and state lines.

Visitors from Florida, Mississippi and Kentucky have attested to the unique outdoor activities at GFNC. “There is no reason to go to the Smoky Mountains when you can enjoy mountain splendor in Jackson County,” Sims said. “We are open for anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors.”

Outdoor recreation became popular during the recent pandemic,

Recreation in scenic Jackson County draws visitors from across the Southeast.

and interest in outdoor activities has continued to rise. Visitors to GFNC can enjoy l Birding l Hiking l Mountain biking l Trails l Porch sitting l Kayaking l Camping.

Research And Demonstrations

While activities for individuals and families abound, the center also serves as an educational resource and research facility. Research topics include entomology, botany and water quality.

A native grass field project conducted with the University of Tennessee, rotational livestock grazing studies and Wetland Reserve Program areas are ongoing at GFNC.

Reach Out

The 491-acre educational farm is open for visitors. Find the Graham Farm and Nature Center at 420 County Road 27, Estillfork, Alabama 35745.

To schedule a team or personal trip, visit aces.edu.

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Simply Southern Spotlight Brittany House Antiques

ak Hill in Wilcox County is the O smallest incorporated municipality in Alabama with about 20 year-round residents. It’s also where Lance Britt operates a second location of Brittany House Antiques, open Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays.

Stations and Times

Saturday, Central Time Market Station Time Columbus, Ga. WLTZ 38 5:00 PM Sunday, Central Time Mobile WPMI 15 6:00 AM Birmingham WBMA 33/40 6:30 AM Huntsville WAFF 48 9:00 AM Montgomery WAKA 8 10:30 AM Dothan WTVY 4 10:30 AM

RFD-TV: Wednesdays • 3 p.m. Central ALWAYS ON: SimplySouthernTV.net

Tell us about the building that houses Brittany House Antiques.

Lance Britt (LB): Originally, this was the Dale Brothers General Store.

It opened in 1870 and closed in the 1950s. We have older members of the community who tell us they remember buying their school shoes here. The original general store shelves are perfect for displaying china, porcelain, silver and unique objects. The large American and English furniture pieces we offer fit well in the shotgun-style building, adjacent rooms and barn.

What is the appeal of antiques?

LB: A lot of antiques were built with hardwoods and were meant to last 200 or 300 years. Back then, buying a great piece of furniture was investing in a generational piece you would send with your daughter or son when they set up their household. A lot of people still do that. But for families who trust us with their antiques, we try to find other families who will treasure these pieces and appreciate their intrinsic value as a piece of art and a piece of furniture.

Who is your clientele?

LB: It’s anyone and everyone. We have customers from Dallas, Texas, to Hilton Head, South Carolina. A lot of younger couples are realizing they can live with antiques. They like chest pieces or storage pieces. Everyone wants to sit in front of the TV and be comfortable. We offer all the other beautiful pieces to go around the comfortable seating to make your house look wonderful.

Wilcox County has the state’s smallest population and might not be everyone’s first pick to open a business. Why is your business thriving there?

LB: Our local community has been great about spreading the word about Brittany House Antiques. Plus, social media opened Pandora’s box of potential customers.

There’s been a resurgence in preserving history and enjoying it in its natural state — ­ and that’s what Wilcox County really is. We have the largest number of antebellum structures in the state. We might be the smallest, but we’ve been very good about preserving our architectural history and history in general.

How do you feel knowing you’re contributing to improving Wilcox County?

Simply Southern’s segment about this story airs on broadcast stations July 2 and 3 and on RFD-TV Wednesday, July 6, at 3 p.m. Central.

For more information, visit SimplySouthernTV.net.

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LB: It’s incredible to know we’re part of the renaissance of Wilcox County — and make no mistake, there is a huge renaissance happening here. People are buying and restoring old homes. The business community is starting to thrive. We have a nationally recognized tour of homes. It’s one of the best feelings to know we’re a small part of preserving history and bringing people back to Wilcox County.

Catfish Checkoff

Soybean Checkoff

Wheat & Feed Grain Checkoff

alfafarmers.org

Public Notice

By Alabama Pork Producers and National Pork Board The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2023 National Pork Producers (Pork Act) Delegate Body will take place Aug. 4, 2022, at 1 p.m. Central Standard Time, in conjunction with a board meeting of the Alabama Pork Producers Association in the State Boardroom at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel at 2101 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., Birmingham, Alabama 35203. All Alabama pork producers are invited to attend.

Any producer age 18 or older who is a resident of the state and has paid all assessments due may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or participate in the election. All eligible producers are encouraged to bring with them a sales receipt proving 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 (334) 296-7581 cchristjohn@alfafarmers.org

alfafarmers.org

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Green

Sponsored By Alabama Ag Credit

Still

Enjoy this excerpt from an Alabama AgCast with Alabama Farmers Federation Catfish, Forestry and Wildlife Divisions Director William Green and Valbridge Property Advisors Certified General Appraiser Brant Still.

do.

William Green: Tell us what you

Brant Still: I’m a certified general property appraiser based out of Montgomery. I appraise various properties. Whether it’s land tracts, commercial investment properties, industry warehouses, hospitality or apartment complexes, we appraise properties across the board. My favorite is land appraisals.

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WG: Explain what a land appraisal is and why it’s important.

BS: Whether you have 100 or 1,000 acres, it’s important to know the worth of your assets. When appraising land, it breaks down three ways — timber, pasture and row crop land.

WG: When the appraisal process starts, what do you look at when valuing property?

BS: It’s about getting to know the property. Tax maps, deeds and neighboring lands are all evaluated and compared to the subject land — or the land under appraisal. When I’m comparing tracts of land, I also look at topography, ponds and flood zones.

WG: Share some helpful tips for buyers who are looking to purchase land.

BS: Ask yourself, “What am I looking for?” Be patient and wait on the right tract. Land sales often go unlisted, so getting out there and being friendly and cordial can help buyers find available land.

Catch the entire interview on the Alabama AgCast. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts or visit AlfaFarmers.org/agcast.

New episodes available every Wednesday.

alfafarmers.org

T

GRAVY

here comes a time when a man must stand up for what he believes and ask for extra gravy on his chicken fried steak. Which is exactly what I am doing.

I am asking my wife to cover my plate in white pepper gravy.

I have a long history with chicken fried steak. It goes back to childhood.

Chicken fried steak was a real treat.

We rarely ate it at home. And we hardly ever went out to eat, either.

Until one fateful Saturday morning, for an unknown reason, my father decided to take our family to a breakfast restaurant.

My father told me I could have anything I wanted on the menu. So I ordered chicken fried steak and asked the waitress for extra white gravy.

My father said, “You’ll never finish.”

I laughed at my critics.

The waitress brought me a steak the size of Venezuela. I ate three bites and had to be carried out on a stretcher.

When I got older, I visited a restaurant that claimed to have the world’s biggest chicken fried steak.

When I ordered, the perky waitress said, “You sure you wanna order that?

You look kinda puny, kid.”

My steak arrived on a platter with a Bowie knife sticking from the top.

“Stand back,” I said. “This could get ugly.”

Before I left, the waitress said, “This ain’t none of my business, kid, but one word: Metamucil.”

Growing up, I remember my aunt frying it in a skillet for breakfast.

Then, she’d drown my food in so much gravy you couldn’t see the actual food.

Don’t get me started on gravy.

Red-eye gravy, chicken gravy, cornmeal gravy, giblet gravy, ham gravy, chocolate gravy, turkey gravy, hamburger gravy, onion gravy.

There are the humble breakfast gravies. Sausage gravy, sawmill gravy, cream gravy and milk gravy.

It bears mentioning, breakfast gravy is meant to be eaten atop homemade biscuits.

I wouldn’t bring canned biscuits to a goldfish funeral.

But tomato gravy is king. If you haven’t tasted real tomato gravy, it tastes like George Jones and Tammy Wynette singing “Golden Rings.”

When I first got married, my wife used to make biscuits and tomato gravy every Saturday. Until one day, she noticed my pants were too tight.

After meeting with our doctor, she quit making biscuits and gravy. Pretty soon, we were eating Shredded Wheat and checking our blood pressure.

But this morning, there is a smell in the air. A familiar one.

“Come and get it,” says my wife.

I sprint toward the kitchen. My wife hands me a chicken fried steak the size of a grand piano. She tops it with gravy. I ask for more.

Don’t forget what I said about canned biscuits. ■

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

!

L A I C O S T E G s on Find u

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. alfafarmers.org

@

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2022 COUNTY ANNUAL MEETING DATES, TIMES & LOCATIONS COUNTY Autauga Baldwin Barbour Blount Bullock Butler Calhoun Chambers Cherokee Chilton Choctaw Clarke Clay Cleburne Coffee Colbert Conecuh Coosa Covington Cullman Dale DeKalb Elmore Escambia Etowah Fayette Franklin Geneva Greene Henry Houston Jackson Lamar Lauderdale Lawrence Lee Limestone Macon Madison Marion Marshall Mobile Montgomery Morgan Pickens Randolph Shelby St. Clair Sumter Talladega Tallapoosa Tuscaloosa Walker Washington Wilcox 30

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DATE Wed., Aug. 17 Thurs., Aug. 11 Thurs., Aug. 11 Thurs., Aug. 18 Thurs., Aug. 18 Tues., July 26 Thurs., Aug. 11 Mon., Aug. 22 Thurs., Aug. 25 Tues., Aug. 16 Mon., Aug. 15 Thurs., Aug. 25 Thurs., Aug. 25 Tues., Aug. 9 Mon., July 18 Mon., Aug. 29 Mon., Aug. 15 Thurs., Aug. 11 Thurs., Aug. 25 Tues., Aug. 2 Mon., Aug. 8 Thurs., Aug. 18 Tues., July 19 Tues., Aug. 9 Mon., Aug. 8 Thurs., Aug. 11 Tues., Aug. 16 Tues., Aug. 16 Thurs., Aug. 25 Tues., Aug. 2 Thurs., July 28 Tues., Aug. 2 Mon., Aug. 15 Tues., Aug. 9 Thurs., Aug. 11 Thurs., July 28 Thurs., Aug. 18 Mon., Aug. 1 Tues., Aug. 2 Fri., Aug. 12 Tues., Aug. 23 Thurs., Aug. 18 Tues., Aug. 9 Fri., Aug. 12 Thurs., July 28 Sat., Aug. 20 Mon., Aug. 15 Mon., Aug. 8 Mon., July 11 Thurs., Aug. 18 Tues., Aug. 23 Tues., Aug. 16 Tues., Aug. 30 Mon., Aug. 8 Thurs., July 21 |

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BUILDING Autauga County Ag Center Baldwin County Farmers Federation Building Texasville Community Center Dunn’s Vintage Gardens Greenway Sportsman’s Lodge Pioneer Electric Building Calhoun County Farmers Federation Building Chambers County Farmers Federation Building Dean Buttram Senior Center Alfa Service Center Alfa Service Center Alfa Service Center First Baptist Church of Ashland-Christian Life Center Cleburne County Mountain Center Community Room Hospitality House (NW Shoals Community College) Alfa Service Center Poplar Point Camp Oakwood Lodge Cullman County Farmers Federation Building Alfa Service Center Alfa Service Center Wetumpka High School Camp 31 Restaurant Etowah County Farmers Federation Building Fayette Civic Center Best Western Hotel Geneva County Farm Center Alfa Service Center Wiregrass Research & Extension Center Alfa Service Center Jackson County Farmers Federation Building Vernon City Complex Lauderdale County Extension Building- Ag Center Moulton Recreation Center Lazenby Farms Willow Oak Farm Beck’s Turf Farm Huntsville Country Club Tombigbee Electric Co-Op Marshall County Farmers Federation Building Greater Gulf State Fair Grounds Alfa Home Office Hartselle Civic Center Cheeky’s Midway Community Life Center Alabama 4-H Center Pell City Municipal Building Alfa Service Center Talladega County Farmers Federation Building First Baptist Church of Dadeville Alabama Extension Office Walker County Farmers Federation Building Alfa Service Center Gaines Ridge

ADDRESS 2224 Hwy. 14 W. 21332 Hwy. 59 2429 Co. Rd. 53 42685 State Hwy. 79 2621 Hwy. 223 300 Herbert St. 1535 Pelham Rd. S. 1006 Ave. A SE 229 Dean Buttram Ave. 301 1st St. N. 229 S. Mulberry Ave. 148 S. Jackson St. 83558 Hwy. 9 6751 Hwy. 78 1055 E. McKinnon St. 800 George Wallace Blvd.

534 West Front St. 191 Poplar Point Camp Rd. 13725 Brooklyn Rd. 307 Main Ave. NW 217 S. Union Ave. 346 McCurdy Ave. S. 1281 Coosa River Pkwy.

222 St. Joseph Ave. 125 Broad St. 530 Temple Ave. N. 13770 Hwy. 43 2765 E. Hwy. 52 101 Boligee St. 167 E. Hwy. 134 1038 Ross Clark Circle NE 23625 John T. Reid Pkwy.

44425 Hwy. 17 802 Veterans Dr. 13550 Court St. 11546 Lee Rd. 54 17434 Morris Rd. 2858 Co. Rd. 53 2601 Oakwood Ave. NW 3196 Co. Rd. 55 1333 Blount Ave. 1035 Cody Rd. N. 2108 E. South Blvd.

406 Nance Ford Rd. SW 129 Industrial Park St. 14093 Hwy. 431 892 Four H Rd. 1000 Bruce Etheredge Pkwy.

106 Marshall St. 314 E. Battle St. 178 S. Tallassee St. 2513 7th St. 903 Airport Rd. S. 54 Court St. 933 Hwy. 10

CITY Autaugaville Robertsdale Clayton Blountsville Union Springs Greenville Jacksonville LaFayette Centre Clanton Butler Grove Hill Ashland Heflin New Brockton Muscle Shoals Evergreen Rockford Andalusia Cullman Ozark Rainsville Wetumpka Brewton Gadsden Fayette Russellville Hartford Eutaw Headland Dothan Scottsboro Vernon Florence Moulton Auburn Elkmont Tuskegee Huntsville Hamilton Guntersville Mobile Montgomery Hartselle Gordo Wedowee Columbiana Pell City Livingston Talladega Dadeville Tuscaloosa Jasper Chatom Camden alfafarmers.org

Blueberry Care Begins Now

By Mallory Kelley othing says summer quite like N blueberries! Blueberries have been in full swing since the end of May, but

come mid-July, they begin to fizzle out.

That means it’s time to start thinking about next year. The size and quality of the berries will decline toward the end of the season, so it’s OK to sacrifice berries now for a little maintenance to ensure a healthier blueberry harvest next year.

As the plant is finishing berry production, it will put its energy into making new shoots and branches. The new growth between now and fall is where the biggest and best berries will be next year. For optimal branch growth, the plants will need water, mulch, fertilizer and pruning. Make sure not to fertilize after mid-September to give the new plant tissue time to harden off.

Generally, blueberries need fertilizing twice a year — once in early spring and again as the berries fade away. Use a urea-based fertilizer or a fertilizer labeled for azaleas or camellias.

This will help acidify the soil. Blueberries like a low pH of 4.5-5.2. Have a soil test done if you have not had one in the past three years to determine which nutrients are lacking and where the pH is.

Prune the long canes that sprout from branches or from the ground to

alfafarmers.org

encourage branching. This will multiply berry production next year. As plants start to grow long, straight shoots or canes, clip these a little lower than where fruit would ideally be next year.

If the fruit should be chest height, clip those canes about a foot lower. The more the canes are clipped (especially the long canes), the more branching happens. The more branches, the more fruit will grow next year. Always remove dead or diseased branches.

Plant blueberries this fall, but remember to plant different varieties of “Rabbiteye” blueberries to prolong the growing season. Different varieties produce at different times from early summer to early August for most of

Alabama. Plant blueberries in full sun with a moist, well-aerated, well-drained soil high in organic matter.

Incorporate organic matter such as peat moss, compost or fine pine bark into the soil at planting, and mulch around the plant to retain water and suppress weeds. Don’t add so much mulch that it suppresses new cane development. Planting blueberries on a little mound ensures plants do not settle and end up planted too deep; they hate “wet feet.” This means roots of the plant will slowly decline through the years.

If you have home garden questions, we have answers. Call the Master Gardener Helpline at 1 (877) ALA-GROW (252-4769).

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Frozen Fruit Salad

By Carolyn Hill, Talladega County

Prep Time Freeze Time Servings 15 mins 2 hrs About 10

Ingredients 2 cups sour cream 2 teaspoons lemon juice 1/2 cup sugar 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained 1 banana, diced 1/4 cup chopped pecans 1 can Bing cherries, drained and cut into halves (or 12 ounces frozen pitted dark sweet cherries)

Instructions In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Put paper liners into muffin pans and fill with mixture.

Freeze at least 2 hours. Serve frozen.

Note When frozen through, individual servings can be transferred to freezer bags or other airtight containers for storage.

ey, y’all. Welcome back to my H kitchen! When it’s hot like this, we all need something cool to bring down

the temperature. This month, I’m sharing a collection of chilled recipes. Not only will they keep your house cool, they’ll keep you cool, as well.

First up is a delicious No-Bake Lemonade Pie guaranteed to refresh you. I’ve been fiddling with this type of pie for years, and I think I’ve finally gotten it down to an easy, no-fail recipe.

It’s guaranteed to be light, fluffy and a little tart. This is one of my favorite summertime desserts. I hope you’ll enjoy it — not only because it’s delicious but because it’s easy, too!

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We can’t eat just dessert all the time, so I love this Apple Pecan Salad with homemade Apple Cider Vinaigrette.

This is a summer standard at my house since we usually have all the ingredients on hand. I like to make a big batch of candied pecans and whip up the vinaigrette on the weekends so I can throw it together throughout the week.

Even though this recipe calls for you to cook the pecans, you can always grab a bag of candied pecans at the grocery store and skip that step.

This month, we’re sharing a Neighbors vault recipe from Carolyn Hill of Talladega County. Her Frozen Fruit Salad is a genius way to treat yourself

at the end of a long, hot day. The Hill family has been enjoying this for years, and we are grateful to take up the tradition in our home, too! This recipe was originally shared in the March 2006 Neighbors.

Summer is in full swing at the Little house, and we’re enjoying sunshine, gardening and weekends visiting with family. I hope these recipes will help make your summer all the sweeter — and cooler — too!

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. alfafarmers.org

Note

Apple Pecan Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 10 mins

Servings 4 to 6

Candied Pecans Ingredients 2 teaspoons butter 1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon water 1 cup pecan halves 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

The candie d pecans and vinaig rette can b made in a e d store the p vance. Simply repared p e room tem perature in cans at a n airtight container, a dressing in nd store the the refrige rator in a jar or airtight container.

Dressing Ingredients 2/3 cup olive oil 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon white vinegar 3 tablespoons lime juice 3 tablespoons pineapple juice 1/4 cup honey 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salad Ingredients 1 (11-ounce) package spring mix 3 sweet, crunchy apples, cored and thinly sliced (I like Honeycrisp) 4 to 6 ounces blue or Gorgonzola cheese crumbles 2/3 cup dried cranberries

Candied Pecans Instructions Heat oven to 350 F, and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small skillet over medium heat, add butter, brown sugar, salt and water. Stir until butter and sugar melt. Add pecans and cook, stirring very frequently, for about 3 minutes — being cautious not to allow the mixture to scorch.

Remove from heat and add cinnamon.

Stir to combine. Spread pecans on prepared baking sheet and bake 5 minutes. Allow to cool completely before using on salad.

No-Bake Lemonade Pie Prep Time 20 mins

Makes 2 pies

Ingredients 2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk 3 (8-ounce) containers frozen whipped topping, thawed (I use Cool Whip) 1 (12-ounce) can frozen lemonade concentrate 2 (6-ounce) prepared graham cracker crusts

Instructions In a very large bowl, stir sweetened condensed milk into thawed whipped topping. Fold in lemonade concentrate until completely combined. Divide filling between pie crusts and chill at least 3 hours — but preferably overnight — before serving.

Dressing Instructions Whisk oil, apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, lime juice and pineapple juice. Add honey, salt, black pepper and garlic powder. Whisk to combine.

Salad Instructions Add spring mix to a large bowl and top with apples, cheese, cranberries and candied pecans.

Drizzle with desired amount of dressing, toss and serve. alfafarmers.org

July 2022

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NEIGHBORS

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( Y O U) You just increased your sales to Egypt 708%.

Bon voyage.

All soybean farmers, including you, have been busy racking up big sales with export markets. How? By pooling your resources through your soy checkoff. Learn how your soy checkoff is bringing tangible returns back to you and your operation at unitedsoybean.org/hopper.

Moving Soy Forward.

Moving You Forward.

2021 United Soybean Board [61078-10 9/21]

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