Neighbor Magazine September 2020

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September/Fall 2020 | Volume 45 | Number 9 Debra Davis | Editor Marlee Moore | Associate Editor Laura Unger | Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan | Executive Director Jeff Helms | Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell | President, Stanton Rex Vaughn | Vice President | North, Huntsville Jon Hegeman | Vice President | Central, Anniston George Jeffcoat | Vice President | Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper | Vice President | Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn | Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn | Hillsboro Mark Byrd | Danville Donald Sewell | Southside Tim Whitley | Horton Joe Anders | Northport Phillip Hunter | Birmingham Joe Lambrecht | Wetumpka Jimmy Holliman | Marion Junction Bill Cook | Montgomery Steve Stroud | Goshen Mark Kaiser | Seminole Chris Carroll | Ariton Kathy Gordon | Dadeville Jonathan Sanders | Brundidge 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 5 | Young Farmers Compete 26 | Alfa’s Service Remains In State Contests

Strong Amid Pandemic

14 Meteorologist Has Sweet

Hobby With Honeybees

16 | JJ’s BBQ Wins Bama’s

Best Pulled Pork Contest

19 | Farmer Helps Fight

Mental Health Stigma

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5

On The Cover

Congratulations to Ben and Bethany Johnson, Alabama’s 2020 Outstanding Young Farm Family.

They raise cattle, poultry, hay, row crops and their children, Blakely and Brooks, in Randolph County.

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Photo By Morgan Waldrop Photography

www.AlfaFarmers.org

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Young Farmers Awards

Federation Honors Young Farmers Winners

Ben and Bethany Johnson are Alabama’s 2020 Outstanding Young Farm Family. The Randolph County farmers and their children Blakely and Brooks will represent Alabama in the American Farm Bureau Federation’s national competition in January.

ome of Alabama’s best and S brightest young farmers were honored Aug. 4, despite restrictions

which forced competitive events to be held via livestream.

“Farming didn’t stop for coronavirus, so we wanted to make sure the Young Farmers Division had an opportunity to continue developing future leaders and recognizing outstanding members,” said Alabama Farmers Federation Organization Department Director Mike Tidwell. “When the Alabama Farm & Land Expo was canceled, we switched to a virtual format for the Discussion Meet and Excellence in Agriculture contests.”

Judges were able to visit farms of three Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) Finalists this spring. The other events were hosted on the Federation’s website July 31-Aug. 1, and the awards program aired on Facebook Aug. 4.

Ben and Bethany Johnson of Randolph County were named the

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Y O U N G

overall OYFF, which comes with a prize package valued at over $60,000. The couple raises poultry, beef cattle and row crops and has two children, Blakely and Brooks.

As the OYFF, the Johnsons will receive $35,000 toward a Ford truck courtesy of Alfa Insurance; a John Deere 825i Gator from Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; and a lease on a John Deere tractor sponsored by AgPro, SunSouth and TriGreen dealers.

OYFF runners-up were Joe and Ashley McCraney of Barbour County and Josh and Savannah McCoy of Dale County. Each family received $500 from Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit. OYFF competitors must earn more than half their income from production agriculture.

Emmanuel Bankston of Henry County took home first place in the Excellence in Agriculture contest. He will receive a zero-turn mower from Corteva Agriscience and a computer package from Valcom/CCS Wireless.

Participants in the event are involved in agriculture but derive the majority of their income off the farm.

Bankston is operations

F A R M E R S

Alabama

of

Emmanuel Bankston of Henry County, left, won the Alabama Farmers Federation Excellence in Agriculture contest sponsored by the organization’s Young Farmers Division. Bankston will receive a zero-turn mower from Corteva Agriscience and a computer package from Valcom/CCS Wireless. He is pictured with Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan.

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Young Farmers Awards

Cantrell

Dixon

superintendent for Golden Peanuts in Headland. Six young farmers competed for the top prize this year.

Excellence in Agriculture first runner-up was Kayla Greer of Montgomery County, while Chase Hammock of Talladega County was second runner-up.

Four Discussion Meet finalists also were named from 10 contestants. There

Newby

are Ali Cantrell of Montgomery County, Garrett Dixon of Lee County and Jerry Allen Newby and Brady Peek of Limestone County.

They will explore solutions to pressing agricultural issues during the final round of Discussion Meet at the Federation’s annual meeting in December. The winner will receive a four-wheeler from First South Farm

Peek

Credit.

All Young Farmers contest finalists received gift certificates for Redland Cotton products courtesy of the Federation and Alfa Insurance. The Johnsons, Bankston and the Discussion Meet winner will compete nationally during the American Farm Bureau Federation’s annual convention in January.

What do you like most about farming?

Working for myself, making decisions and not having to answer to anyone else are most rewarding.

John Cook John Cook, 61, has been part of the Alabama Farmers Federation all his life. He grew up attending meetings with his parents — Ann Cook and the late James Cook, a former state board member. After graduating from Auburn University with a degree in agricultural economics, he returned to Conecuh County’s Lyeffion community to the family farm, where he raises cotton, corn, oats, cattle, timber and hay. He was State Young Farmers Committee chairman in 1988 and serves on the county Federation board.

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Why are you involved in the Federation?

When you’re involved in this organization, you’re not just helping yourself; you’re helping all farmers. This organization looks after farmers.

What is the hardest part of farming?

It’s hard to make a profit in these difficult times.

The prices we receive for the products we grow are incredibly low. The biggest challenge right now is to survive.

What fills your time outside of work?

When I have time, I enjoy hunting and fishing, and I like to watch high school football. I attend church at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church in Lyeffion, where I serve on the board of directors.

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Alfa Awards

Smith Honored For Cotton Extension Efforts

By Marlee Moore r. Ron Smith has been on the cutting D edge of cotton entomology for 48 years, helping generations of farmers identify, understand and manage pests in Alabama’s estimated 15,000 cotton fields.

“Farmers are making decisions on each of those fields once a week for at least 12 weeks. That’s about 200,000 decisions on whether the cotton needs to be treated,” said Smith, 77, an Auburn University (AU) professor emeritus. “I hope to have an impact on each of those decisions.”

That commitment to serving farmers earned Smith the Duncan Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Extension. It’s the second year the Alabama Farmers Federation presented the award, which is named for former Alabama Extension Director Luther Duncan.

“I am honored,” Smith said. “This is the first time I’ve gotten an award from the people I’ve tried to help. That makes it most meaningful.”

Smith receives $5,000 toward developing solutions for stakeholderidentified problems. Federation Cotton Division Director Carla Hornady said Smith’s persistence helped keep cotton farmers in business through implementing the Boll Weevil Eradication Program and encouraging adoption of genetically modified cotton.

“Dr. Smith has dedicated his career to helping cotton farmers thrive,” Hornady said. “His work has spanned major issues, and he has always made himself available to farmers. We’re proud to recognize him for the way Alabama has tangibly benefited from his decades of work.”

Smith was raised on a small cotton farm near Moulton in Lawrence County.

He holds a trio of degrees from AU — a B.S. in agriculture science, M.S. in agronomy and Ph.D. in entomology — and was hired as Alabama Extension entomologist in 1972.

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Ron Smith has spent 48 years serving Alabama farmers by researching and developing techniques to manage cotton insects. Smith, left, is helping Auburn University’s new cotton, soybean and peanut entomologist Scott Graham form the same relationships he did over his nearly five-decade career.

Smith’s research has helped farmers battle an evolving series of tiny cotton pests that cause big problems.

Takeaways focused on understanding insect movement and migrations and the importance of timely spray application, thus preventing yield loss.

Recent research has helped create a thrips prediction model; improve management practices for the stink bug complex, including the new invasive brown marmorated species; and determine how new genetic traits best fit into the Alabama cotton production system.

While Smith’s career concentrated on cotton, he’s staunchly supported AU on the athletic field, too. He’s attended 57 consecutive Iron Bowl matchups and participated for 20 years in thriceweekly noon basketball games with other faculty members.

Smith and his late wife, Linda, were

married 54 years; he has five children and 10 grandchildren.

Though he officially retired in 2003, Smith continues to serve farmers as a contract Extension entomologist.

He keeps producers informed through applied research, Extension publications, on-farm visits, tweets and his blog at alabama-insects. blogspot.com. Farmers can sign up for Smith’s timely pest alerts by texting “PESTPAT11” to 97063.

He’s also helping Dr. Scott Graham, AU’s new cotton, soybean and peanut entomologist, create farmer-Extension connections. Those relationships are essential, Smith said.

“When I started, I was helping growers,” he said. “Over 48 years, I became friends with those growers.

Now I’m helping friends manage their cotton. What more rewarding job could there be?” alfafarmers.org

Ortiz Awarded For Excellence In Agriculture Research

By Debra Davis roviding farmers information from P digital technologies to make better decisions has become the life

work of Dr. Brenda Ortiz, professor and Extension specialist in Auburn University’s (AU) Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences Department.

Her work with farmers across the state earned Ortiz the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Rittenour Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Research. As the winner, Ortiz receives $10,000 from the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation to fund graduate students or research operations.

Jim Lewey of Carr Farms in Geneva County, who grows row crops, turfgrass, cattle and hemp, nominated Ortiz for the award.

“Dr. Ortiz puts a lot of effort into everything she does, and she cares about her work,” Lewey said. “We’ve adjusted irrigation schedules based on her research and recommendations, which make us more efficient, saves water and increases yields.

“The soil sensors we installed (recommended by Ortiz) help us know where we need water and how much water we need at various times during the plants’ growth,” he added. “That’s helped us make better decisions that affect our yields and ultimately have a positive economic impact on our farm.”

Ortiz leads AU’s Precision Agriculture Research and Extension program focused on evaluation, demonstration, and training on the use of digital technologies in agriculture. Current efforts concentrate on evaluating and demonstrating technologies such as sensors, controls and telematics for precision irrigation and precision planting.

Ortiz also leads a nationally funded Natural Resources Conservation Service project aimed at increasing adoption of best irrigation practices among Alabama farmers.

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Geneva County farmer Jim Lewey right, nominated Dr. Brenda Ortiz, professor and Extension specialist in Auburn University’s (AU) Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences Department, for the Rittenour Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Research.

A Colombia native, 47-year-old Ortiz credits her work ethic, perseverance and determination to her parents and many mentors. She said being honored by the farmers she serves honors those who encouraged her.

“This award is really recognition of my program and what we do as a team,” Ortiz said, referring to the students and post-graduate students on her research and Extension team. “I want to motivate my team to learn applications of digital agriculture and show them the importance of the commitment that’s necessary to do good work.

“I believe if we want to increase food production in the world, we need environmental sustainability and profitability. We need to look for those solutions working hand in hand with the farmers.”

Ortiz said there is a lot of value in work done on campus and in the

classroom — but believes working on the farm in real situations increases the opportunities for adoption of sciencebased solutions is best.

“The trust and respect farmers have shown Dr. Ortiz reflects the positive impact her research and Extension work has had on farms across the state,” said the Federation’s Carla Hornady, director of the organization’s Cotton, Soybean and Wheat & Feed Grain divisions.

Ortiz said the award confirms her acceptance by farmers.

“When I came to the U.S. in 2004, I had worked with farmers, scientists, engineers and leaders in the sugar cane industry in Colombia,” she said. “When I came here, I had to prove myself again. I have been at Auburn University for 13 years, and the feeling of being recognized by the farmers and knowing they value what I do is more important than anything.”

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Parnell Named To Agricultural Trade Advisory Committee New National Trade Advisors Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee Constance Cullman, American Feed Industry Association; David Puglia, American Feed Industry Association; David Salmonsen, American Farm Bureau Federation

ATAC for Trade in Animals and Animal Products

Robert DeHaan, National Fisheries Institute; Mallory Gaines, American Feed Industry Association; David Herring, Hog Slat Inc./TDM Farms; Jimmy Parnell, Alabama Farmers Federation; Maria Zieba, National Pork Producers Council

ATAC for Trade in Fruits and Vegetables

William Callis, U.S. Apple Export Council; Casey Creamer, California Citrus Mutual; Jodi Devaurs, California Table Grape Commission; Jonathan Maberry, Washington Red Raspberry Commission; Caroline Stringer, California Fresh Fruit Association

ATAC for Trade in Grains, Feed, Oilseeds and Planting Seeds

Jimmy Parnell

A

labama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell was appointed to a national agricultural trade advisory committee July 17.

The president of Alabama’s largest farm organization is one of 25 new members to serve on seven committees, announced U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer.

Parnell is a fifth-generation beef cattle farmer and logger from Chilton County. He will serve on the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee (ATAC) for Trade in Animals and Animal Products and provide technical advice and guidance to the Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee (APAC).

APAC advises the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative on trade policy matters including the operation of existing trade agreements and the

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September/Fall 2020

negotiation of new agreements.

“It is an honor to represent the real-world impact of international trade on farm families and our rural communities,” said Parnell, also CEO of Alfa Insurance. “It is imperative U.S. trade policy be responsive to the needs of American agricultural producers.

I believe my roles at the state and national levels position me to serve as a voice for those farmers.”

In Alabama, agricultural exports total more than $1.3 billion annually. Parnell said foreign trade is critical to the health and financial sustainability of the state’s livestock, poultry, cotton, feed grain, peanut and soybean industries.

The newly appointed advisors will serve until 2024. Each committee will be supplemented by additional appointments over the next four years.

Learn more at fas.usda.gov/topics/ trade-advisory-committees.

Peter Bachmann, USA Rice Federation; William Gordon, American Soybean Association; Derek Haigwood, D.I.D. Farms; Patrick Hayden, North American Export Grain Association; Dalton Henry, U.S. Wheat Associates; Edward Hubbard, Renewable Fuels Association; Tina Lyons, Double River Forwarding, LLC

ATAC for Trade in Processed Foods

Kevin Latner, National Industrial Hemp Council; Richard (Denton) McLane, McLane Global Trading; Max Moncaster, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture; Bernadette Wiltz, Southern United States Trade Association

ATAC for Trade in Tobacco, Cotton and Peanuts Karl Zimmer, Premium Peanut

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Chembezi Appointed To USDA’s Advisory Committee On Minority Farmers

Chembezi

r. Duncan M. Chembezi, director D of Alabama A&M University’s Small Farms Research Center, has been appointed to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Advisory

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Committee on Minority Farmers.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced in July Chembezi’s appointment as one of 15 members to serve on the national committee. The newly appointed members serve terms of up to two years through 2022.

“USDA is excited to announce new members of the Minority Farmer Advisory Committee,” said Secretary Perdue. “This diverse committee of talented farmers will play an important role in advising the USDA on challenges and opportunities that minority farmers in the U. S. may face.”

Chembezi joined Alabama A&M in 1995. As the university’s Small Farm Research Center director, he assists minority and limited resource farmers with educational and technical assistance to help them obtain access to markets, land, capital and opportunities in the farm industry.

“Having worked with small farmers for a long time, it is an honor to serve on the committee,” Chembezi said. “The

appointment reflects the agricultural sector’s confidence in me and others like me to carry out the secretary’s vision and USDA’s vision for minority farmers.”

Other appointees include Harvey Reed, Louisiana; Cary M. Junior, Michigan; Carolyn Jones, Mississippi; Kimberly Ratcliff, Texas; Arnetta Cotton, Oklahoma; Antonio Harris, Louisiana; Delmar Stamps, Mississippi; Michelle Costa Cruz, Connecticut; Dewayne Goldmon, Arkansas; William Miller, Ohio; Lois Kim, Texas; Ivan H. Howard, Florida; Dr. Elsa Selina Sanchez, Pennsylvania; and Claud D. Evans, D.V.M., Oklahoma The committee has 15 members, including representatives for socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers, nonprofit organizations, civil rights organizations or professions, and institutions of higher education.

Congress authorized the committee in 2008, and since its inception, it has served to advise the secretary and USDA on the implementation of the section 2501 Program of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation and Trade Act of 1990; methods of maximizing the participation of socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers in USDA programs; and civil rights activities within USDA. The committee is managed by USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement.

USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement develops and maintains partnerships focused on solutions to challenges facing rural and underserved communities in the U.S. and connects those communities to the education, tools and resources available to them through USDA programs and initiatives. alfafarmers.org

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Broadcaster Has Sweet Spot For Beekeeping

Richard Scott collects honey from one of his hives in Tuscaloosa County. In addition to plenty of honey for personal use, he shares honey with family members and sells enough to have a sweet part-time business.

Meteorologist Richard Scott of Tuscaloosa started with one beehive as a way to boost production of his fruit trees. He now has 50 hives throughout the county.

By Dennis Sherer popular west Alabama broadcast A meteorologist has one honey of a hobby.

About five years ago, Richard Scott asked Tuscaloosa County Extension Agent Neal Hargle for help in boosting production of his fruit trees. That set in motion what soon became a sweet spot for apiculture.

“Neal recommended I get a beehive,” Scott said. “He told me how to get started and put me in contact with beekeepers in the area.”

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At first, Scott, chief meteorologist at WVUA-Channel 23 in Tuscaloosa, was apprehensive about placing a colony of honeybees in his home orchard.

“I’ve always been scared to death of bees, but I realized bees were the remedy for the low yields from our fruit trees,” he said.

That first hive led to another…and another. Scott now has 50 hives spread around Tuscaloosa County. Each colony produces 50 to 100 pounds of honey annually.

In addition to a more fruitful orchard,

Scott has plenty of honey for personal use, plus gifts for family and friends and even some to sell.

“The bees have turned into a nice little business for us,” he said.

The orchard and apiary are a family hobby for Scott, wife Tara and sons Parker and Grayson.

“Tara and I started the orchard before we had children,” he said. “We wanted a fun hobby we could use to teach them about food production and the ecosystem. Then the bees came along and are now a big part of what we do. The boys love the bees and often go along with me when I’m working with the bees. It has been a learning alfafarmers.org

experience for all us.”

Scott’s hives are filled with bees collected from swarming colonies or those that took up residence in unwanted places.

“People are always calling me to remove bees that have made a hive in the wall of their house or in the attic or under the floor,” he said. “A lot of people have heard me talk about my bees on TV, so they call me when they have bees they want removed.”

Just like experienced beekeepers who helped Scott start his hobby, he now enjoys introducing others to apiculture.

“Beekeeping is a rewarding hobby for the beekeeper, for the farmers in the area and for the environment,” he said. “We need more people to take up beekeeping.”

Scott said a good starting point for those interested in beekeeping is their local county Extension office. Extension agents can answer many questions about beekeeping and recommend local beekeepers willing to help newcomers. YouTube is a good source for how-to videos about honeybee

culture and care, he added.

The Alabama Farmers Federation’s Hunter McBrayer said hobby and full-time beekeepers are essential to production agriculture.

“Bees and beekeepers play an important role in food production,” said McBrayer, the Federation’s Bee & Honey Division director. “Eighty percent of flowering crops, including peaches,

apples, pears, blueberries, squash, pumpkins and melons, are pollinated by bees. That’s one-third of the American diet.”

September is National Honey Month. The observance, initiated by the National Honey Board, promotes beekeeping, the importance of honeybees and the use of honey as a natural sweetener and health aid.

The Sweet Truth

u The queen honeybee is Alabama’s official agricultural insect.

u There are three types of honeybees in a colony: the queen (fertile female), workers (infertile females) and drones (males). u A queen honeybee can produce up to 3,000 eggs a day.

u The peak population honeybee colony occurs during mid-summer and results in 60,000 to 80,000 bees per colony. u Honeybees must gather nectar from 2 million flowers to make 1 pound of honey.

u The average honeybee makes 1/12th of a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime. u A honeybee is the only insect that produces food eaten by man.

Source: Alabama Bee & Honey Producers

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JJ’s BBQ in Elba snagged the title of Bama’s Best Pulled Pork with its tender pork shoulder mixed with crunchy burnt ends. From left are owner Chequita Walker, Alabama Farmers Federation Pork Division Director Russ Durrance, pig farmer Josh Tubbs and “Simply Southern TV” host Mary Wilson.

JJ’s BBQ Dubbed Bama’s Best Pulled Pork

By Marlee Moore

hequita Walker takes a simple C approach to pork preparation — a move that helped the subtly smoked

swine at JJ’s BBQ in Elba clinch the title of Bama’s Best Pulled Pork.

“The recipes aren’t a big secret, but I’m not telling everybody,” Walker said with a smile. “Texture matters. If the pork is cooked right, it falls apart.”

Sponsored by the Alabama Pork Producers, the Bama’s Best Pulled Pork contest scoured the state for hometown restaurants paying homage to barbecue. JJ’s BBQ serves slow-smoked pork shoulder infused with hints of hickory, oak and pecan. The tender

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September/Fall 2020

meat is then mixed with burnt ends that crackle and melt when diners bite into the ‘que, particularly when it’s served on a sandwich or piled on a baked potato.

JJ’s BBQ was one of four restaurants judges visited July 15-16. The Bama’s Best Pulled Pork Final Four was selected from over 100 nominations on Facebook and scored over 2,000 votes.

Judges were pig farmer Josh Tubbs, Alabama Farmers Federation Pork Division Director Russ Durrance and “Simply Southern TV” host Mary Wilson.

Tubbs, whose family raises hogs in Walker County, said judging criteria included pork texture and taste, followed by sauce flavor.

“If I can take a good piece of pork

and enhance it with sauce, that’s good,” he said. “If the sauce doesn’t take away from the flavor, that’s even better. JJ’s was the best of both worlds.”

Durrance said it was impressive to see communities rally around the Bama’s Best Pulled Pork finalists.

“We visited places that are off the beaten path,” he said. “It’s cool to see community support for these restaurants and for the pork industry. Farmers are out working every day of the year, and we appreciate consumers who enjoy their great products.”

JJ’s menu must-haves include ribs, barbecue baked beans, rice cooked in chicken broth and served with pulled chicken, and smooth, mustardy potato alfafarmers.org

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The Competition Chequita Walker and her kitchen crew prepare simple, tasty pork for customers at JJ’s BBQ in Elba.

salad. Walker spoons up two sauces — a sweet, tomato-based sauce and a spicier version she likes to drizzle on a pulled pork sandwich heaped with slaw.

Family plays a big part in JJ’s BBQ. Walker grew up watching her father and grandfather smoke whole hogs and worked in the restaurant business before branching out on her own. The walk-up-only restaurant is manned by family members and is named after Walker’s adopted son, Josiah.

Walker, who works full time for the Department of Corrections, said her next goal is to build a dine-in restaurant.

“The people of Elba have shown me nothing but love. They come out and support me,” said Walker, who was born

Bama’s Best Pulled Pork judge Josh Tubbs dug into pork sandwiches during the two-day tasting adventure. alfafarmers.org

and raised locally. “I have love in my heart for what I do.”

As Bama’s Best Pulled Pork winner, JJ’s BBQ won $500 from the Alabama Pork Producers. The Elba eatery also earned bragging rights and a plaque, courtesy of the Alabama Pork Producers.

JJ’s is open Thursday and Friday from 4:30-8:30 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit the restaurant at 509 Claxton Ave., Elba, AL 36323.

The remaining Bama’s Best Pulled Pork finalists were Heard’s BBQ in Maplesville, Holy Smoke BBQ in Hartselle and The Pink Pig food truck in Moulton.

The finalists and JJ’s BBQ will be featured in the next season of “Simply Southern TV.” Wilson, who hosts the Alabama Farmers Federation-sponsored show, thanked all four finalists for hosting the judges.

“I’ve always told people that if I could have only one meal for the rest of my life, it would be barbecue pork, so judging this contest was a dream come true,” Wilson said. “The four finalists did not disappoint and definitely deserved to be honored. It was tough competition, but the smokiness of JJ’s pork really stood out.

“I also judge pork by the flavor you find in the burnt ends, and Chequita has found a way to give it a perfect char without drying the meat out.”

Holy Smoke BBQ in Hartselle is owned by Junior Hyatt and his sons, Bart and Brad. Judges sampled a pulled pork sandwich with slaw and sauce.

Anita and Shawn Luker own The Pink Pig in Moulton. The food truck offered up pulled pork sandwiches with white sauce and slaw for the judges.

Roman and Shakira Heard served the judges a pulled pork sampler with sliders, nachos, loaded fries and more at Heard’s BBQ in Maplesville.

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Breaking Point:

Mental Health Battle Real On Alabama Farms Stephen Newell is real about his struggle to find peace and mental wellness. The Calhoun County farmer said counseling sessions have helped him be a better person, husband to wife Ashley and father to Ashlyn and Tori.

By Marlee Moore hile millions watched the 2018 W Super Bowl from home, Stephen Newell was done playing games. The

farmer, husband and father of two was checking himself into the hospital.

“I let my depression go too far,” he said. “I was too prideful to talk to someone. I don’t want to see anyone go

alfafarmers.org

through what I did.”

Escape felt impossible, Newell said. His beef cattle and hay operation weighed heavily on his mind — and, even at home, was present just outside his front door.

“I made a couple of business decisions that were questionable. I woke up one morning, and we’d lost thousands of dollars overnight,” said

Newell, 34, who farms near the Calhoun and Talladega county lines.

“I thought about harming myself. I thought, ‘Can I overcome this?’”

Newell buried the news for eight months from his wife, Ashley; father, Stephen; and grandmother, Vida.

Around the same time, his father was diagnosed with cancer, and Vida had a debilitating car accident.

The pressure to provide was mounting, coupled with stressors Newell couldn’t control. Prices.

Breakdowns. Weather.

“In today’s society, a man isn’t supposed to have issues,” Newell said. “I was angry inside, and Ashley didn’t know why. I was taking it out on them. I can’t lie. My wife and kids had to leave for me to realize I needed help.”

Countless farmers and rural residents fight the stigma that asking for help signals weakness, said Shanna McIntosh. She directs the Vital Project, a University of Alabama initiative to improve wellness in rural Alabama.

“Silence is deafening,” said Sumter County native McIntosh. “The more we keep silent and the less we talk to each other, the more alone we feel.

This happens specifically with farmers September/Fall 2020

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19

because they have to be self-motivated, resourceful and independent.”

Farming is rewarding but inherently isolating, stressful and unpredictable, she said. That takes a toll.

The suicide rate among workers in farming, fishing and forestry industries is 1.5 times the national average at about 17 deaths per 100,000 workers, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Signs of stress can be physical, emotional, mental, behavioral and relational. Indicators include changes in routines or social activities, decline in care of livestock, increase in illness or chronic conditions, feelings of hopelessness, increase in farm accidents, decline in farmstead appearance, lack of concentration and more.

Rural areas often have limited health and mental health services, so knowing who can help when depression, anxiety and thoughts of self-harm manifest is challenging, McIntosh said.

Her recommendation: Contact a local physician, who can refer treatment.

The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) has compiled farmer mental health resources through Farm State of Mind. AFBF, Farm Credit and the National Farmers Union launched Rural Resilience Training to recognize signs of farm stress, a program Alabama Farmers Federation field staff recently completed. Learn more at

Signs Of Stress For Farmers u Changes in routines or social activities u Decline in care of livestock u Increase in illness or chronic conditions u Feelings of hopelessness u Increase in farm accidents u Decline in farmstead appearance u Lack of concentration

Resources u Farm Aid’s Farmer Resource Network: 1-800-FARM-AID u The National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 u 211.org u FarmStateOfMind.org 20

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Two years ago, smiling was a foreign concept for Stephen Newell. Today, he’s all smiles on the farm with his daughter, Ashlyn, and more easily recognizes signs of stress as they pop up.

FarmStateOfMind.org.

Other assistance options include Farm Aid’s Farmer Resource Network at 1-800-FARM-AID; the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255; or 211.org, which connects people to local resources.

The warning signs were there for Newell. Depression snowballed into anger issues. He stopped fishing and playing basketball. Smiling was a foreign concept.

“At first, Stephen tried to hide it because he didn’t want to seem like a failure,” Ashley said. “Depression is real and something more people need to discuss.”

One-on-one counseling opened the door for Newell to work through problems and find peace.

“Talking to someone is the best thing, as much as you may not want to,” he said. “I had to figure out who I was. I have to make myself happy before I can help anyone else.”

Newell prioritizes farm breaks, whether taking 8-year-old Ashlyn and 4-year-old Tori to barrel races or fishing on nearby Lake Logan Martin. And he’ll step back from frustrating situations such as equipment breakdowns.

He said mental wellness is a daily struggle and is comfortable calling his therapist when things get rough. He’ll check on friends regularly, too, because he knows the power of simply asking, “Are you OK?” It’s an approach McIntosh applauds.

“If you see something, say something,” McIntosh said. “Let people know they are not alone.”

That realization led Newell to make his most challenging and worthwhile decision.

“Walking in a hospital was the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” Newell said. “It’s also the greatest thing I’ve ever done.”

Stephen Newell is a happier, healthier farmer today thanks to professional assistance he’s received while prioritizing mental health. alfafarmers.org

Peanut Groups Form New National Organization Never lose electricity again! eanut industry growers, shellers and P buying points have formed the U.S. Peanut Federation (USPF) to serve as a policies for peanut producers.”

The USPF includes the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation (SPFF), the American Peanut Shellers Association and the National Peanut Buying Points Association.

Formed in 1998, the SPFF is a producer organization that includes the APPA, Florida Peanut Producers Association, Georgia Peanut Commission and Mississippi Peanut Growers Association. The APPA is an affiliate of the Alabama Farmers Federation.

Premium Peanut President and CEO Karl Zimmer will serve as the first USPF chairman.

For information about USPF, contact Joe Thomas at (202) 543-7464 or jthomas@reddingfirm.com.

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unified voice in Washington, D.C., for all sectors of the peanut industry.

The USPF also will advocate for strong agricultural policy with a mission to protect, promote and improve business conditions for the peanut industry.

Alabama Peanut Producers Association Executive (APPA) Director Jacob Davis said the alliance will serve Alabama farmers well.

“There has been an unofficial coalition with the other segments of the peanut industry since the 2002 Farm Bill,” Davis said. “This new organization formalizes the partnership when it comes to advocating for the industry on agriculture policy and legislative issues.

The USPF will only push an agenda item when all three segments are in agreement. Having a unified voice in Washington will enhance our mission of working to get the best program and

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JOB OPENING

Assistant State Forester The Alabama Forestry Commission is seeking applicants for Assistant State Forester. It is an unclassified full-time position with the Alabama Forestry Commission based in Montgomery.

By state law, this position will be filled by appointment of the Forestry Commission, with the approval of the Governor. This is a non-merit appointment, and the Assistant State Forester will serve at the pleasure of the Commission.For qualifications and information, contact Nikki Barnes at (334) 462-7159 at nikki. barnes@forestry.alabama.gov.

View the job posting at https:// forestry.alabama.gov/Pages/Other/ Employment.aspx

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D

WORDS

on’t kiss a girl without being prepared to give her your last name.”

My granny said that.

My father once said this: “If you so much as touch a cigarette, you might as well tear up half your paychecks from now on.”

My mother’s axiom, however, is my all-time favorite: “It’ll be okay.”

It might sound simple, but my mother said this often. When things were running off the rails. When a girl broke my heart. When I lost my job.

When I cried. When I had a common cold I believed to actually be, in fact, tuberculosis.

She also said: “Cleaning your plate means ‘I love you, Mama.’”

I was an overweight child.

This one is from my elderly friend, Mister Boots: “Smartphones have made stupid people.”

My grandfather said: “Anything worth doing is worth waiting until next week to do it.”

My mother once said: “Carry deodorant in your truck, for crying out loud. You smell like you’ve been roping billy goats.”

Said Bill Bonners in a nursing home from his wheelchair: “I never wanted to be a husband, I really didn’t want that. But I just couldn’t breathe without her around me.”

He died four days after his wife.

The day of my father’s funeral, a

preacher came through the line and said: “No man ever truly dies. Not really.”

I’ve said this at a few funerals myself.

From my father: “A man is ugliest when he’s jealous.”

My uncle said: “Don’t fall in love with her hair color, eye color or figure.

Fall in love with her mama, her brother and her sisters.”

Said my friend Louis: “I like cats better than dogs. Dogs don’t judge you or hold things against you. A guy can be a jerk and still be a dog guy. But if you’re not nice to a cat, he’ll burn your house down while you sleep.”

My aunt’s immortal words: “I can tolerate a lot of things, but ignorance ain’t one of them.”

And my friend, the author, once told me: “To be a writer is to be a homeless man who can type really fast.”

A deacon in our old church once said: “Biloxi, Mississippi, was invented for Baptists by Episcopalians.”

My granddaddy once spoke to me about choosing friends: “Don’t ever go fishing with anyone who you wouldn’t let marry your sister.”

And this one’s from me: Never forget the people who made you into the person you are today. I hope their words stick with you. May I forever remember my mother’s gentle wisdom, no matter how bad life seems.

“It’ll be okay.”

Because I believe it will. ■

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.

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Over 2,000 gallons of milk were distributed to River Region families during a contactless, drive-thru milk donation at Garrett Coliseum July 14.

Drive-Thru Milk Donation Distributes Dairy During Pandemic

By Marlee Moore stream of vehicles looped through A the Garrett Coliseum parking lot July 14 as volunteers distributed 2,275

gallons of delicious, healthy, free milk to River Region families.

The contactless, drive-thru donation in Montgomery was made possible through Borden Dairy Co., The Dairy Alliance and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farmers to Families Food Box Program.

The USDA project helps farmers and distributors dispense American-grown products while providing families with nutritious food during the coronavirus pandemic.

Alabama Farmers Federation staff, including Dairy Division Director Russ Durrance, volunteered at the event.

“Milk is a wholesome product that provides nine essential nutrients to people of all ages, from children to

Community members volunteered at the milk giveaway at Garrett Coliseum.

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adults,” Durrance said. “Although our interactions with community members were limited because of safety measures aimed at limiting spread of COVID-19, it was a pleasure to tangibly give back with our partners at Borden and The Dairy Alliance. Dairy is an important part of any diet and builds strong bones and healthy bodies.”

Volunteers, suited up with face coverings, loaded a total of 1,375 gallons of milk directly into car trunks.

An additional 900 gallons were donated to the Montgomery Area Food Bank.

The Montgomery-based donation was one of many The Dairy Alliance has coordinated around the Southeast during the pandemic, including a giveaway in Phenix City July 22. The alliance is a nonprofit promoting dairy farmers and dairy knowledge in eight states — Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

The alliance encourages a healthy lifestyle that includes three servings of milk, cheese or yogurt daily. Staffer Mekenzie Panhans said her organization was excited to coordinate the donation on behalf of Alabama dairy farmers.

“Many families are struggling due to COVID-19,” said Panhans, the alliance’s farmer relations manager. “The goal of this giveaway was to provide families in need with the calcium, protein, vitamin D and other valuable nutrients that milk offers, while helping dairy farmers redistribute milk that has been otherwise displaced due to supplychain disruptions.”

Visit TheDairyAlliance.com to learn more.

Federation Dairy Division Director Russ Durrance helped load free Borden milk for families during the giveaway.

Federation staffers Russ Durrance, left, and Brady Ragland volunteered at the milk giveaway coordinated by Borden Dairy and The Dairy Alliance. alfafarmers.org

Be amazing!

pork.org/cooking

Mediterranean Back Ribs with Pomegranate Sauce 5 lbs. pork back ribs 1 tbs. kosher salt 1 tsp. black pepper, freshly ground 1 16-oz bottle pomegranate juice, 100% 2/3 cup ketchup 1 tbs. molasses 1 tbs. soy sauce 2 scallions, white and green parts, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced

Season ribs with salt and pepper. For a charcoal grill: prepare an indirect medium-hot fire with drip pan in the center.

For a gas grill: heat grill to medium and turn off burners directly below where ribs will go.

Lightly oil cooking grate. Place ribs over indirect heat (over drip pan or unlit burner). Close grill hood and cook until ribs are tender, about 11/2 to 2 hours. (If using charcoal, add more charcoal briquettes to fire, if necessary, to maintain grill temperature of about 325-350°F.) Meanwhile, bring pomegranate juice to a boil in medium saucepan over high heat. Boil until thickened and reduced to about 1/3 cup, about 15 minutes. Stir in ketchup, molasses, soy sauce, scallions and garlic. Bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring often, until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

During last 20 minutes of cooking ribs, baste ribs with sauce. Ribs are done when meat pulls away from the bone.

Yield: 6 servings, (4-rib slab per serving ) © 2018-2020 National Pork Board, Des Moines, Iowa USA. This message funded by America’s Pork Checkoff Program.

Alfa Customer Service Shines Amid Pandemic

By Brooke Foster lfa Insurance understands the A importance of being prepared to respond when disasters or unexpected

events strike. This continues to be true amid the COVID-19 outbreak.

Alfa’s 2019 Alabama Agent of the Year Bernice Givens said the pandemic highlighted the value of Alfa’s hometown agents and customer service representatives.

“Delivering personal service is the most important thing we do every day,” Givens said. “Even amid COVID-19, we’re making every effort to go the extra mile. Whether that means customers coming inside the office or offering curbside assistance to those who didn’t want to come inside. COVID-19 may have changed the way we operate, but it also confirmed that being able to provide personal service has never been more important.”

Alfa President Jimmy Parnell said the company’s efforts to enhance technology and teamwork over the last seven years paid dividends when coronavirus restrictions were implemented.

“It’s amazing to see how well our team members adapted to the changes of our business operations to help customers during the pandemic,” Parnell said. “Our team members helped maintain a positive customer experience by listening to customers and delivering digital services to provide customers with more options for doing business.”

Alfa’s Mike Rowell said customers expect businesses to provide self-service capabilities, and the importance of offering digital tools has accelerated.

“Our digital platforms allowed us to serve our customers better than expected during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Rowell, Alfa’s chief information officer. “E-signature, electronic billing and online services such as quote and bind allowed us to meet our customers’ needs with immediate solutions.”

Alfa launched online quote and bind

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Alfa policyholder Shanda Wilkins of Troy with Alfa and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell following a spring storm. Wilkins praised Alfa’s quick response after the disaster.

capabilities for Alabama automobile customers at AlfaInsurance.com in March. That service provides customers a simple, convenient way to get coverage. Since its launch, more than 3,000 online quotes were received in Alabama, 377 policies were bound, and 367 new members joined the Alabama Farmers Federation.

Rowell said online payments increased almost 9% from 22,427 in February to 24,580 in April.

As essential businesses, Alfa offices remained open, implementing additional safety guidelines to protect customers and team members. Extra precautions included providing offices with protective shields and additional cleaning supplies.

Flexibility became an important part of serving Alfa customers during the pandemic. Late fees and cancellations for non-payments were waived to provide financial relief. Customers driving less due to travel restrictions also were given the option to reclassify vehicles to reduce premiums.

“Maintaining our renowned level of service, answering the call and being there for customers when they need it

most is a promise Alfa keeps, even amid a global pandemic,” said Alfa Executive Vice President of Marketing Al Dees.

Despite the challenges of COVID-19, Alfa’s local claims adjusters responded to an unusually high number of spring storms, often reacting within 24 hours.

Bryan Hubbard, Alfa’s senior vice president of claims, said the company expects to pay more than $135 million to help customers recover from tornadoes and severe weather events from January through May. “The Alfa claims team maintained its quick response times to assess damaged property, while practicing social distancing,” Hubbard said. “Our department also offered flexibility in managing claims through virtual communication channels for those who didn’t feel comfortable with on-site visits.”

Parnell said Alfa’s claims response and flexibility in serving customers show how a crisis can bring out the best in people.

“No matter what situation arises, no matter how bad the storm or global pandemic, we will always be here for our customers,” Parnell said. alfafarmers.org

The Alabama Farmers Federation is searching for a bumper crop of snapshots depicting the state’s No. 1 industry — agriculture — through the Farming Feeds Alabama Photo Contest.

categories Farm Life Family time, generational, working, playing, pets, children, machinery, equipment, farm challenges

crops Any stage from planting to

harvest for all crops grown in Alabama, including fruits, vegetables, hay and large-scale row crops

animal agriculture Cattle, poultry, catfish, goats, sheep and equine

prizes

$50 $ 0 10 0 15 1 place 2 place 3 place

$

st

each category

nd

each category

rd

each category

150

$ The People’s Choice Award ber voted on through Facebook in Novem

Winners will be recognized during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s

99th annual meeting and in Neighbors magazine.

one photo original, unpublished content. • Each photographer may enter • Photos must have been taken in Alabama in 2020 and must be d text or logos or embedde with Photos • white. and black or color be may in each category. • Minor adjustments are accepted. Photos are not and smartphones are acceptable, as long as quality and resolution watermarks will not be accepted. • Photos taken with cameras will be eliminated. • Alabama Farmers Federation staff and their behavior unsafe exhibiting Photos . practices farm safe with affected. • Photos must comply the Alabama Farmers Federation for promotional materials. immediate families are ineligible. • All entries could be used by test. hotoCon ers.org/P • More terms and conditions available at AlfaFarm

Rules

Submit entries June 1-Nov. 15 at AlfaFarmers.org/PhotoContest.

Alfa Foundation Awards $100,000 In Scholarships To 100 Students

By Mary Wilson he Alfa Foundation granted $1,000 T scholarships to 100 students for use during the 2020-2021 academic year.

The scholarships may go toward tuition, fees, books or supplies.

Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell said he’s proud this scholarship program can help students as they work toward earning degrees at community colleges and universities.

“Education is extremely important for our young people, and graduating with an associate or bachelor’s degree opens so many doors,” Parnell said. “I’m glad the Alfa Foundation Scholarship Program can relieve some of the stress related to paying tuition bills.”

The 2020 Alfa Foundation Scholarship recipients represent 43 Alabama counties and 21 institutions of higher learning.

The program is administered through Scholarship America, which selects recipients based on academics, participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience and future goals.

Over seven years, the Alfa Foundation has awarded $650,000 in scholarships to students from 65 counties studying at 36 Alabama universities, colleges and technical schools.

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

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The 2020 Alfa Foundation scholarship recipients, listed in alphabetical order by county, are: Autauga Julia Anne McBride, freshman, AUM Baldwin Max Brown, freshman, Alabama Erin Meszaros, freshman, UAB Greer Robinson, junior, Alabama Richard Nate Strum, sophomore, Alabama Lyndon Trimble, freshman, UAB Zoe Vicich, sophomore, Auburn Barbour Brooks Weeks, freshman, Troy Richard Davis Wingate, freshman, Auburn Bibb Kara Hudson, freshman, Alabama Savannah Rogers, freshman, Alabama Blount Mallory Smith, freshman, Wallace State CCHanceville Calhoun Korie Burgess, junior, Auburn Olivia Coppock, freshman, Auburn Alyssa Breanna Heard, senior, JSU Chilton Sara Kate Emmerich, freshman, Alabama Derreck Christopher Ivey, freshman, Auburn Emily Parrish, sophomore, Alabama Brady Watson, freshman, South Alabama Choctaw Brennan Mcilwain, junior, South Alabama Aaron Wilson, sophomore, South Alabama Clay Gaven Bell, freshman, UAB

Coffee Caroline Richey, senior, Auburn

Conecuh Avie Etheridge, sophomore, Coastal Alabama CC Nathanael Salter, freshman, Coastal Alabama CC Covington Kassidy Hope Gunter, freshman, Lurleen B. Wallace CC Madeline Pugh, freshman, North Alabama Maxwell Russell, freshman, Auburn Crenshaw Adam Carlisle, freshman, Auburn

Cullman Lillimae Allen, sophomore, Mobile Townley Cornelius, freshman, Alabama Sierra Keith, freshman, Alabama

Dallas Elizabeth “Ellie” Adams, sophomore, Alabama William Ingram, freshman, Auburn

DeKalb Abrie Blair, freshman, UAH Colby Cochran, senior, JSU Seth Maddox, sophomore, Auburn Garrett Thrash, freshman, Birmingham-Southern Elmore Catherine Daniel, junior, Troy Jackson Hand, freshman, Auburn Judson Hardin, freshman, Auburn Jana Venable, senior, Alabama Escambia Chassity Terrell, senior, UAH

Etowah Louisa Garcia, freshman, UAB

alfafarmers.org

Franklin Destiny Deaton, sophomore, Northwest-Shoals CC Kelsey Montgomery, sophomore, Alabama Hale Brian Osburn, freshman, Shelton State CC

Houston Bailey Anderson, sophomore, UAB Haley Brackin, freshman, Wallace CC-Dothan Blake Calhoun, freshman, Auburn Leah Grace Strickland, sophomore, Auburn Dustin Woodham, freshman, South Alabama Jackson Julia Webb, senior, JSU Megan Woodall, freshman, Auburn

Jefferson Erin Denenberg, freshman, Auburn Joel Slone Earnest, senior, Auburn Anna Johnston, sophomore, Samford Bella Kimbrell, freshman, Alabama William Morrison, freshman, Alabama Lacey Walker, freshman, Alabama Tripp Watkins, freshman, UAB Thomas Wilbert, freshman, Alabama

Lamar Annalisa Robertson, freshman, Samford Macy Williams, freshman, Bevill State CC Icie Wriley, freshman, Alabama

RUN THIS LAND

Lauderdale Bethany Belue, sophomore, North Alabama Caroline Parker, junior, Auburn Lee Julia Bush, freshman, Auburn Lee Givens, junior, Auburn Victoria Kyles, freshman, Auburn Kaycie Mashburn, sophomore, Troy Wilson Reeves, freshman, Auburn Limestone Julia Marcelle Hall, freshman, UAB

Lowndes Landon Hooper, freshman, South Alabama Macon Rachel Sargent, freshman, Auburn

Madison Natalia Castillo Casados, sophomore, UAH Parker Dean, freshman, UAH Catherine Dennis, sophomore, Auburn Grace Gray, freshman, Troy Marengo William Yates, sophomore, Auburn

Marshall William Aycock, freshman, Snead State CC Camden Schwieterman, freshman, Auburn

Mobile Elizabeth Bryson, freshman, South Alabama

Monroe Madeline Hobbs, freshman, Troy

Montgomery Elizabeth Cowden, freshman, Samford Morgan Jake Cantrell, junior, UAB Brianna Evans, junior, UAH Julianna Pike, junior, Auburn

Randolph Emery Norred, freshman, Southern Union State CC Russell Georgia-Lee Smith, freshman, Auburn Shelby Brianna Fuchs, senior, Alabama Julianne Knight, freshman, Alabama Brooks Tolbert, junior, UAH St. Clair Ben Castleberry, senior, Auburn Ashlea Posey, junior, UAB Kaila Posey, junior, UAB

Tuscaloosa Erin Chism, senior, Alabama Callie Corley, sophomore, Alabama Winston Jonathan Baker, sophomore, UAB Emee Baldwin, junior, UAH

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alfafarmers.org

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Extension A Firm Constant In Uncertain Times

AlabamaReady.info serves as a the disease.

By Justin Miller OVID-19 has made C life uncertain for many people. However,

COVID-19 resource for families

age

and businesses to help them man

was one of the first program areas to take full advantage of this tool.

According to Molly Gregg, assistant director of Alabama 4-H, staff refused to let the outbreak halt educating and engaging the state’s young people.

“We knew it was important to have fun learning activities to do at home, especially during this time of isolation,” Gregg said. “To keep youth engaged, 4-H promoted projects such as woodworking, baking, gardening and photography, as well as several STEM activities, all through videos.”

According to Gregg, 4-H safely distributed pigs, chicks and rabbits to allow members to continue involvement in the program’s popular animal projects, Pig Squeal, Chick Chain and Rabbit Project.

AlabamaReady.info

Extension administration professionals of the Alabama also knew it was equally Cooperative Extension important to keep System have taken measures residents informed on During COVID-19, Alabama 4-H is finding ways to connect with young people. to remain a constant source COVID-19. Extension The program adapted its delivery methods to include digital resources for atof credible information for created the coronavirus home learning.

Alabama residents. website AlabamaReady.

“COVID-19 has made info as a resource for families it clear that the world is facing an recurring webinars of different topic and businesses to learn to safeguard unprecedented health event,” said areas. themselves from the disease. It provides Gary Lemme, Alabama Extension “These webinars were a big hit information on dealing with and director. “The Alabama Cooperative among our stakeholders and even recovering from virus exposure.

Extension System continues to provide allowed Extension to broaden its reach “The website has been constantly the unbiased information people have to other audiences,” Lemme said. “The updated with the latest information come to expect of us.”

Stay at Home Beekeeping Series was through informative articles and videos one of the most popular webinars, on the coronavirus,” Lemme said. “This quickly filling up registration spots and Extension Goes Digital helped Alabama Extension become even reaching audiences outside the While traditional outreach methods, known as one of the national leaders in U.S.” such as in-person meetings, farm coronavirus materials among Extension Overall, Extension held 4,386 calls and county office visits, haven’t systems.” educational events using Zoom. These been possible, Alabama Extension While the effects of COVID-19 will have involved 76,746 stakeholders, with professionals rallied to provide the likely be felt for an extended period of as many as 5,000 people participating public with educational materials. time, Lemme said Extension is available in some events.

In addition to digital materials to help people cope with those issues.

The use of prerecorded videos already available at aces.edu, Extension “Extension is here to help you,” through social media was also a tool worked to create other avenues of Lemme said. “We are always working to Extension utilized to disseminate digital learning. A popular option was find new ways to serve your needs and information to audiences. Alabama 4-H the use of Zoom to host single and help you face challenges.”

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Red Lettuce Green Leaf Lettuce

By Lois Chaplin

is especially rewarding to Leasy.ettuce grow at home because it is fast and While spring-planted lettuce turns

Alabama

bitter a month or two after planting, fall-planted lettuce stays sweet for months, yielding pounds of salad greens October-May. There’s no need to harvest the entire plant. By cutting only the outer leaves, the center bud remains intact to keep producing new leaves.

With the exception of head lettuce, which won’t usually form a firm head in our climate, homegrown lettuce gives gardeners many leafy options. Bibb, romaine and loose-leaf types have colorful leaves of red, burgundy, bronze, chartreuse, medium green, dark green or various combinations. Leaves may be smooth, savoyed, curly, frilly, big or small. This makes for a beautiful salad with a distinct homegrown crispness and flavor.

Pretty containers full of lettuce plants can be easily moved and conveniently located. Lettuce combines well with

edible fall flowers such as Johnny jump-ups and violas.

The easiest way to start is with transplants, either purchased or started in small containers at home. To start seeds outdoors now presents unique seasonal challenges — seedling damage from insects and critters, in addition to soil that dries out quickly. Lettuce seed won’t sprout if the soil temperature is higher than 80-85 F. Many varieties need light to germinate, so seeds must be near the soil surface, not buried, which increases heat exposure.

Additionally, seedlings require thinning unless started from pre-spaced seed tape.

Transplants, however, make gardening easy. Bonnie Plants carries fall transplants, or gardeners may start seedlings from dozens of varieties available. Sow in the cool indoors and move outdoors to grow in light shade after seedlings sprout.

The ideal time to set out transplants

Frost cloths protect leafy greens from the first hard freeze through March, keeping the temperature warm enough to encourage new growth.

(at 3-4 inches tall) is a couple months before the first freeze. Freeze dates vary from mid- to late October in north Alabama to early December on the Gulf Coast. Lettuce plants can tolerate frost, especially if the weather cools gradually so plants can acclimatize or “harden off.” A sudden drop of 40-50 degrees overnight will likely damage even the hardiest, even though lettuce is easily protected with a frost blanket due to its small size. The red-leafed lettuce varieties seem to be the most cold hardy.

We keep a frost blanket over our beds from the first hard freeze through March; that keeps the temperature underneath warm enough to encourage new growth, especially in lengthening days after the winter solstice. On warm days (70F or more), we raise the sides to keep the lettuce cool. This system yields a continuous harvest of lettuce and other greens until they go to seed in the spring. Our longest-lasting variety, Tango, usually lasts into May. Lettuce likes a rich, well-drained soil, so amend a raised bed or planting bed with composted manure or mushroom compost. In containers, use a premium potting mix. Although lettuce does tolerate some shade, winter lets in more sun as deciduous trees lose their leaves.

Try some fall lettuce, even if it’s just a few plants in a pot. It offers great reward for the small amount of work involved.

Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

Top-Notch Products, First-Rate Customers E ALAFARM.COM 34

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alfafarmers.org

COUNTY FEDERATION ANNUAL MEETINGS alfafarmers.org

Crenshaw County Thursday, Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m.

Alfa Service Center 357 S. Forest Ave., Luverne Lowndes County Thursday, Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m.

Southern Sportsman Lodge 9022 US Hwy 80 W., Tyler Monroe County Friday, Sept. 14, 6:30 p.m.

Monroe County Ag Center 334 Agriculture Dr., Monroeville Walker County Tuesday, Aug. 18, 6:30 p.m.

Walker County Federation Building 903 Airport Rd. S., Jasper Marengo County Tuesday, Sept. 8, 6:30 p.m.

Alfa Service Center 206 Shiloh St., Linden Winston County Thursday, Sept. 10, 6:00 p.m.

Bernice Hilton Walker Community Center 11 Blake Dr., Double Springs

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Chicken Enchilada Cornbread Casserole Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time Servings 50 mins 6

Ingredients 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce, divided 1 cup self-rising cornmeal 1 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup milk 2 eggs 1 (4.5-ounce) can diced green chilies 1 (14.75-ounce) can cream-style corn 1 (15.25-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese

Instructions

eptember is National Poultry Month, S and we Alabamians are no strangers to chicken. In fact, poultry is Alabama’s largest agricultural industry. It employs more than 86,000 people on farms, in processing plants and within associated industries. Poultry also generates more than $15 billion in revenue annually. It’s big business here.

That’s why this month is the perfect opportunity to share some delicious chicken recipes. This incredibly versatile protein can be roasted, fried, grilled, broiled, boiled and used in countless soups, stews and casseroles.

I grew up eating Chicken Bog. While the name might seem odd to some, it’s a delicious and thick chicken and rice dish that gets extra flavor from smoked sausage. The low-country favorite goes by a couple different names depending on the exact ingredients and the amount of liquid used. My mom picked up the recipe when she lived in South Carolina. It’s one of my ultimate comfort foods.

My mom is also to credit for this Ranch Chicken Cheese Ball. It’s one of those recipes she’s known for. She makes it often, and folks always ask

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for the recipe. In fact, I found it in my random collection of printed recipes I have in a large three-ring binder where someone typed the recipe out and called it “Belinda’s Chicken Ball.” Serve it up with a collection of crackers and veggies, and watch it disappear.

My Chicken Noodle Stir Fry is one of those easy recipes perfect for busy weeknights but delicious enough for any time. The chicken, noodles and sauce are the stars of the dish, but you can customize it by using your favorite veggies or, in my case, the ones your kids will actually eat.

One of my favorite grocery store shortcuts is buying a rotisserie chicken for recipes that call for shredded, cooked chicken. Chicken Enchilada Cornbread Casserole is the perfect place to do just that. Rotisserie chicken saves you a ton of time and adds more delicious flavor. Another component of this dish that adds great flavor is the enchilada sauce — so make sure you grab a good one. There are quite a few on the market that don’t have much flavor. I really like the Hatch brand, if you can find it.

As an appetizer, snack or entree,

Heat oven to 350 F. Drizzle oil in a 10-inch cast iron skillet before placing in the oven to preheat.

In a small bowl, mix shredded chicken with 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce and set aside.

In a large bowl, mix cornmeal, salt, milk, eggs, green chilies and cream-style corn until just combined.

Carefully remove hot skillet from oven and set on a heatproof surface.

Pour about half the cornbread mixture into the pan. Gently sprinkle chicken over the mixture. Sprinkle black beans over chicken. Sprinkle cheese over black beans. Pour remaining batter over the top and spread evenly. Return to oven for 50 to 60 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove from oven and pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Serve warm. chicken adds protein to your diet and delicious flavor to your dishes no matter how you use it. Help celebrate Alabama’s poultry farmers and put some chicken on tonight’s menu!

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

Chicken Noodle Stir Fry Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 25 mins

Servings 6

Ingredients 10 ounces rice noodles 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced Salt Pepper 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 small head broccoli, washed and cut into florets (about 2 cups) 1 carrot, peeled and thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced 1/2 white onion, thinly sliced 1 cup sliced mushrooms 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups chicken broth 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 cup soy sauce 2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional) 3 tablespoons cornstarch

Ranch Chicken Cheese Ball Prep Time Chill Time Servings 15 mins 2 hrs 10 to 12

Ingredients

Instructions Cook rice noodles according to package instructions and drain. Set aside.

Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium high.

Add chicken to skillet and brown for 3 to 5 minutes or just until cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet with a slotted spoon, allowing grease to remain in the skillet. Set chicken aside.

Add additional oil if necessary, then add broccoli, carrot, bell pepper, onion and mushrooms. Cook about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender to your liking. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Return chicken to the skillet.

In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce and cornstarch. Pour sauce in the skillet and bring to a boil, stirring frequently.

Reduce heat to a simmer and allow sauce to thicken. Add cooked rice noodles and mix.

Chicken Bog Prep Time Cook Time Servings 30 mins 1 hr 30 mins 8 to 10

Ingredients 1 (4- to 5-pound) whole chicken 2 ribs celery 1 yellow onion 3 cloves garlic Salt Pepper 1/4 cup unsalted butter 1 (14-ounce) package smoked sausage 4 cups long-grain rice

Instructions If included, remove and discard chicken innards. Add chicken and neck (if included) to a large stock pot.

Wash and coarsely chop celery. Peel

and quarter onion. Peel and smash garlic with the side of a knife. Add celery, onion and garlic to the pot. Add enough water to just cover chicken. Add 2 teaspoons of salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, then stir.

Simmer chicken 40 to 60 minutes or until cooked through, being cautious not to boil.

Boiling the chicken will result in dry, tough meat.

Once cooked, move chicken to a plate to cool. Then remove and shred the meat, discarding the skin, bones and neck. Set meat aside.

Strain broth from the pot through a fine mesh strainer and set aside.

In a large Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid, melt butter. Slice sausage in 1/3-inch rounds and add to the butter.

Cook over medium-low heat until sausage is just browned. Add 8 cups of the reserved

2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature 1 (10-ounce) can white meat chicken, drained 1 (1-ounce) envelope ranch salad dressing mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, chicken, ranch dressing mix, mayo and shredded cheese until thoroughly mixed. Chill at least two hours.

Remove mixture from refrigerator and carefully mold into ball shape. Coat outside with chopped pecans. Serve chilled with crackers, vegetables, etc. broth and bring to a rolling boil. Add more salt and pepper to taste. Add rice and stir well. Add shredded chicken. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook 20 minutes, stirring once or twice, or until the rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Add additional broth if necessary. Serve immediately.

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