Neighbors Magazine, November 2014

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VOLUME 39, NUMBER 11

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

NOVEMBER 2014

_____________________________________

Debra Davis, Editor Mike Moody, Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan, Executive Director Jeff Helms, Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell, President, Stanton Rex Vaughn, Vice President/North, Huntsville Dean Wysner, Vice President/Central, Woodland George Jeffcoat, Vice President/Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper, Vice President/Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn, Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen

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DIRECTORS Brian Glenn, Hillsboro Paul Looney, Athens Waymon Buttram, Crossville Don Allison, Arley Joe Roberts, Fayette Dell Hill, Alpine Richard Edgar, Deatsville Dan Robertson, Uniontown Garry Henry, Hope Hull Carl Sanders, Brundidge Sammy Gibbs, Atmore S. Steve Dunn, Samson Sharon Byrd, Ariton Allie Corcoran, Eufaula

In This Issue

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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.

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

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November Voter Guide

11 New TV Show Coming Soon

14 Scholarship Winners

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ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: McFarland AdVantage, (334) 652-9080, McFarlandAdvantage@gmail.com.

www.AlfaFarmers.org

Outstanding Young Farmers

12 Tasty Apples For Travelers

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

DISCLAIMERS: Ad­vertise­­­­­­­ments in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement by the magazine or Alabama Farmers Federation. Editorial information from sources outside the Alabama Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Alabama Farmers Federation policies. Publication of information does not imply an endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation.

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18 Digging Peanuts 32 Perfect Peanut Recipes

On The Cover Wes Isom inspects fresh-picked apples

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from his orchard in Limestone County.

Photo by A.J. Watson

When you see these icons on a page, visit the appropriate website for more content.

youtube.com/alabamafarmersfed

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facebook.com/alabamafarmers

flickr.com/84380492@N03

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Outstanding Young Farm Family Finalists

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ix Outstanding Young Farm Families were chosen as finalists in a statewide contest open to farmers between 18-35 years old who stand out as agricultural leaders on their farms and in their communities.

This month’s Neighbors magazine features the three remaining finalists. Others were featured in the September issue.

Judges toured the finalists’ farms and will select the overall winner. The six finalists will be honored at the Alabama Farmers Federation’s 93rd annual meeting in December when the winner is announced.

The Outstanding Young Farm Family will receive a prize package valued at more

than $60,000, including $35,000 toward the purchase of a new GM vehicle, sponsored by Alfa Insurance; an 825i John Deere Gator, courtesy of Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; and a lease on a John Deere tractor, provided by local John Deere dealers and John Deere. The winners will represent Alabama in San Diego at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Achievement Award competition during the organization’s 2015 annual convention.

For more information on the Young Farmers program, visit AlfaYoungFarmers.org

By Jill Clair

G

rowing up in a south Alabama farm family helped instill a passion for conservation in John Bitto. For the last decade, he transitioned from conventional tillage to no-till practices on the 3,000 acres he farms, saving time, fuel and the soil.

“We just try to have as little of a footprint as possible,” John said.

“We try to use the least harsh chemicals available and spray as little as possible. We also plant grass in our ditches to slow the water down and allow it to be filtered by the plants.”

As Baldwin County Young Farmers chairman, John willingly helps other farmers experiment with these techniques.

“A lot of folks ask questions about it, and we live in an open farming community, so we all help each other out,” he said. “We can

see what’s worked across the fence and ask them, and vice versa.”

Although John grew up on the farm, he didn’t always want to follow in the footsteps of his father, David Bitto.

“I really had no plan to farm until I started scouting crops in high school — I got paid to walk people’s fields looking for bugs, disease and other things that needed to be addressed,” John said. “It was a lot of fun.”

After graduating from Auburn University with a degree in horticulture, John had the opportunity to rent land from a neighbor to farm, and he’s been at it ever since.

Currently, he grows peanuts, corn, soybeans, wheat, oats, grain sorghum, millet and raises beef cattle.

John has also grown vegetables to sell directly from the farm and is interested in pursuing that venture again.

John’s wife, Jennifer, an orthopedic physician assistant at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola, had never been on a farm until she met John.

Raised in West Palm Beach, Florida, moving to the farm three years ago was a bit of a culture shock, she said. Now her coworkers ask her gardening questions, and when John grows produce, they all want to be customers.

“And I think it will be a great place to raise children,” she said. “It will help them develop a great work ethic.”

Jennifer and John Bitto.

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Colin Wilson with his sons, Trent and Eli.

By A.J. Watson

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or Hollywood, Alabama, farmer Colin Wilson, the stars of his show are beef cattle.

Early in his career, Wilson dreamed of being a veterinarian, but he said tough science classes changed his mind. Instead, he chose an animal science degree from

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Auburn University. The decision proved to be a good foundation for Rocking W Cattle Company in Jackson County, where he and his semi-retired father have 320 cattle.

Cattle seemed like an obvious choice instead of diversifying into row crops.

“It made more sense for me to stick with what I’m best at,” Wil-

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The Wilsons Jackson County son said. “It’s all cows with us.”

Wilson started with 10 cows of his own in 2001. His herd has grown to 225 cows, 40 replacement heifers and 10 bulls on 900 acres of land.

Despite challenges that include a shortage of pastureland in his area of the state, Wilson said he’s been “blessed with help” from retiring farmers willing to rent land.

In addition to his cattle, Wilson has a livestock supply business where he sells water tanks, hay and mineral feeders and wraps. He also is a beef representative for Southeast Select Sires.

Wilson was a graduate of the third Agriculture Leaders For Alabama (A.L.F.A.) class at the 42nd Commodity Producer’s Conference Aug. 7 in Huntsville, an experience that allowed him to think outside the box.

“Any time I can go on anyone else’s farm, I try to pick things up,” he said. “For example, we toured a sweet potato farm. It might not have anything to do with cows, but if it’s a successful operation, I want to see what makes it successful.”

Wilson is the Jackson County Young Farmers Committee chairman and on the State Young Farmers board. He said his time in the Federation has made him a better farmer and advocate for agriculture.

Wilson and his wife, Kristi, have two sons, Trent, 7, and Eli, 4. He said the best part of his job is the freedom he enjoys and the miracles he witnesses through agriculture.

“I like structure as much as anyone else, but I can make my own schedule farming,” he said. “I like seeing cows being born and watching them grow into something. Just when you think you’ve got them figured out, they surprise you.”

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TheDale Morrisons County

Paul and Vicki Morrison

By A.J. Watson

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hat started with 25 cows and a dream grew into a diverse, successful farm for Dale County farmers Paul and Vicki Morrison.

The Morrisons expanded their farm from 50 acres of peanuts, 50 acres of rye seed and 25 brood cows to 2,400 acres including 700 acres of cotton, 525 acres of peanuts and 500 brood cows on 700 acres of pasture.

“We already had the land rented for peanuts, so instead of the land laying fallow, we used cotton in our rotation,” Paul said. “We started with 100 acres of cotton, and after we bought a picker it kept growing to what it is today.”

Paul said he enjoys everything he grows, but peanuts keep him on his toes.

“You never know what you’re going to get until you plow them up,” he said. “They’re more challenging, and I like that.”

Vicki, a math teacher at G.W. Long High School in Skipperville, helps Paul in the afternoon and during summer breaks.

“I’d say teaching and farming are the two jobs that go best together,” she said, adding that she often heads to the fields after her day at school.

The combination of teaching

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and farming helps their farm, but the Morrisons agree the blend helps promote agriculture in their community.

“We’ve got one kid who helped us out for five or six years,” Paul said of a student who worked on the farm in the summer. “Last year, he planted a few acres of vegetables.

He liked it so much, he planted even more this year.”

Paul is the Dale County Young Farmers Committee chairman, a Dale County Farm Service Agency (FSA) committee member, secretary/treasurer of the Dale County Cattleman’s Association and a member of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association. Vicki

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serves on the Dale County Farmers Federation Women’s Leadership Committee and is a member of the county’s Young Farmers Committee. The Morrisons are active Morgan Baptist Church members, where Vicki serves as youth leader and Paul recently was ordained as a deacon.

Vicki said she and Paul are proud to be farmers, adding she couldn’t imagine them living life any other way.

“Something about planting a seed and watching it grow—you know there’s a higher power,” she said. “Being around agriculture, you witness miracles every day.” n

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State & Federal

Members Urged To Vote Nov. 4

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labamians will select candidates to lead our state for the next four years during the Nov. 4 general elections. This Voter Guide lists candidates endorsed by FarmPAC, the political action committee of the Alabama Farmers Federation.

County leaders recommended endorsements for federal and state elections after reviewing candidates’ qualifications and voting records.

Voting is an extremely important civic duty, and we hope this guide helps voters make informed decisions. Regardless of who you support, please exercise your right to vote Nov. 4. Remember, a photo ID will be required.

Amendments

OFFICE

ENDORSED CANDIDATE

Governor

Robert Bentley

Lt. Governor

Kay Ivey

Attorney General

Luther Strange

Secretary of State

John Merrill

State Treasurer

Young Boozer

State Auditor

Jim Zeigler

Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries

John McMillan

Supreme Court Justice, Place 1

Greg Shaw

Court of Civil Appeals, Place 1

William “Bill” Thompson

Court of Civil Appeals, Place 2

Scott Donaldson

Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 1

Mary Windom

Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 2

J. Elizabeth Kellum

Public Service Commission, Place 1

Jeremy Oden

Public Service Commission, Place 2

Chris “Chip” Beeker Jr.

U.S. Senate

Jeff Sessions

AMENDMENTS AS THEY APPEAR ON THE BALLOT

SUMMARY

POSITION

AMENDMENT 1: Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, to prohibit the State of Alabama from giving full faith and credit to public acts, records, or judicial proceedings of another state that violate the public policy of the State of Alabama and to prohibit the application of foreign law in violation of rights guaranteed natural citizens by the United States and Alabama Constitutions, and the statutes, laws, and public policy thereof, but without application to business entities. (Proposed by Act 2013-269)

Protects Alabamians from the application of foreign law.

SUPPORT

AMENDMENT 2: Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, as amended, relating to the Capital Improvement Trust Fund, to increase the amount of the General Obligation Bonds authorized herein; to provide for additional payments from the Alabama Trust Fund to fund any bond issued; to provide for competitive bidding of the bonds; and to provide for the distribution of the proceeds for plans, construction, and maintenance of Alabama National Guard armories.

(Proposed by Act 2013-266)

Allows for use of Alabama Trust Fund revenue to fund bonds for plans, construction, and maintenance of Alabama National Guard armories.

NEUTRAL

AMENDMENT 3: Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, to provide that every citizen has a fundamental right to bear arms and that any restriction on this right would be subject to strict scrutiny; and to provide that no international treaty or law shall prohibit, limit, or otherwise interfere with a citizen’s fundamental right to bear arms.

(Proposed by Act 2013-267)

Provides further protection for the right to bear arms.

SUPPORT

AMENDMENT 4: Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, to prohibit a general law, whose purpose or effect is to require a new or increased expenditure of at least $50,000 of local funds annually, from becoming effective with regard to a city or county board of education without enactment by a 2/3 vote. (Proposed by Act 2014-185)

Gives local boards of education SUPPORT the same constitutional protection from unfunded mandates as counties and cities have.

AMENDMENT 5: Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, to amend Amendment 597, now appearing as Section 36.02 of the Official Recompilation of the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, as amended, to clarify that the people have the right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife subject to reasonable regulations that promote conservation and management of fish and wildlife and preserve the future of hunting and fishing. (Proposed by Act 2014-286)

Clarifies that the people of Alabama have the right to hunt, fish and harvest wildlife.

SUPPORT

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

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Be Sure To Vote On Nov. 4!

County-By-County COUNTY Autauga

DEMOCRAT Kelvin Lawrence, HD69

Baldwin

Thomas Jackson, HD68

Barbour Bibb

Berry Forte, HD84 Billy Beasley, SD28 Ralph Howard, HD72

Blount

Bullock

Berry Forte, HD84 Billy Beasley, SD28

Butler Calhoun

Chambers Cherokee

Barbara Boyd, HD32 Richard Lindsey, HD39

Josh Burns, HD37 Richard Lindsey, HD39

Chilton

Choctaw

Clarke

Terri Sewell, CD7 Elaine Beech, HD65 A.J. McCampbell, HD71 Bobby Singleton, SD24 Terri Sewell, CD7 Elaine Beech, HD65 Thomas Jackson, HD68 Bobby Singleton, SD24

ELECTED OFFICE CODES:

REPUBLICAN Martha Roby, CD2 Mike Holmes, HD31 Jimmy Martin, HD42 Clyde Chambliss, Jr., SD30 Bradley Byrne, CD1 Harry Shiver, HD64 Alan Baker, HD66 Joe Faust, HD94 Steve McMillan, HD95 Randy Davis, HD96 Greg Albritton, SD22 Trip Pittman, SD32 Martha Roby, CD2 Betty Peters, BOE2 Gary Palmer, CD6 April Weaver, HD49 Cam Ward, SD14 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Gary Palmer, CD6 Cynthia McCarty, BOE6 Randall Shedd, HD11 Connie Cooner Rowe, HD13 Will Ainsworth, HD27 David Standridge, HD34 Clay Scofield, SD9 Shay Shelnutt, SD17 Martha Roby, CD2

INDEPENDENT

DEMOCRAT

Cleburne

Josh Burns, HD37 Richard Lindsey, HD39

Coffee

Colbert Conecuh

Marcel Black, HD3 Johnny Mack Morrow, HD18 Roger Bedford, SD6 Thomas Jackson, HD68

Coosa

Covington

Martha Roby, CD2 Chris Sells, HD90 Mike Rogers, CD3 Cynthia McCarty, BOE6 Becky Nordgren, HD29 Steve Hurst, HD35 Randy Wood, HD36 K.L. Brown, HD40 Del Marsh, SD12 Mike Rogers, CD3 Betty Peters, BOE2 Gerald Dial, SD13 Mike Rogers, CD3 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Cynthia McCarty, BOE6 Phil Williams, SD10 Gerald Dial, SD13 Gary Palmer, CD6 Jimmy Martin, HD42 April Weaver, HD49 Mark Tuggle, HD81 Cam Ward, SD14 Clyde Chambliss, Jr., SD30 Greg Albritton, SD22

Crenshaw Cullman

Dale

Dallas DeKalb

Bradley Byrne, CD1 Greg Albritton, SD22

CD=Congressional District

COUNTY Clay

Elmore

BOE=Board of Education

Terri Sewell, CD7 Darrio Melton, HD67 John Robinson, HD23 Richard Lindsey, HD39

REPUBLICAN Mike Rogers, CD3 Betty Peters, BOE2 Ron Johnson, HD33 Steve Hurst, HD35 Del Marsh, SD12 Gerald Dial, SD13 Mike Rogers, CD3 Betty Peters, BOE2 Gerald Dial, SD13 Martha Roby, CD2 Betty Peters, BOE2 Chris Sells, HD90 Barry Moore, HD91 Mike Jones, HD92 Jimmy Holley, SD31 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Martha Roby, CD2 Chris Sells, HD90 Greg Albritton, SD22 Gary Palmer, CD6 Betty Peters, BOE2 Ron Johnson, HD33 Steve Hurst, HD35 Mark Tuggle, HD81 Clyde Chambliss, Jr., SD30 Martha Roby, CD2 Mike Jones, HD92 Jimmy Holley, SD31 Martha Roby, CD2 Chris Sells, HD90 Dick Brewbaker, SD25 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Cynthia McCarty, BOE6 Ed Henry, HD9 Randall Shedd, HD11 Paul Bussman, SD4 Martha Roby, CD2 Betty Peters, BOE2 Alan Boothe, HD89 Steve Clouse, HD93 Jimmy Holley, SD31

INDEPENDENT

Harri Anne Smith, SD29

Robert Aderholt, CD4 Cynthia McCarty, BOE6 Mary Scott Hunter, BOE8 Nathaniel Ledbetter, HD24 Kerry Rich, HD26 Will Ainsworth, HD27 Becky Nordgren, HD29 Steve Livingston, SD8 Clay Scofield, SD9 Phil Williams, SD10 Martha Roby, CD2 Mike Holmes, HD31 Reed Ingram, HD75 Dick Brewbaker, SD25 Clyde Chambliss, Jr., SD30

HD=State House District

SD=State Senate District

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

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Be Sure To Vote On Nov. 4!

County-By-County COUNTY Escambia

DEMOCRAT

Etowah

Craig Ford, HD28

Fayette Franklin

Johnny Mack Morrow, HD18 Roger Bedford, SD6

Geneva Greene

Hale Henry

Terri Sewell, CD7 A.J. McCampbell, HD71 Ralph Howard, HD72 Bobby Singleton, SD24 Terri Sewell, CD7 Ralph Howard, HD72 Bobby Singleton, SD24 Dexter Grimsley, HD85 Billy Beasley, SD28 Dexter Grimsley, HD85 Billy Beasley, SD28

REPUBLICAN Bradley Byrne, CD1 Alan Baker, HD66 Mike Jones, HD92 Greg Albritton, SD22 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Mary Scott Hunter, BOE8 Becky Nordgren, HD29 Mack Butler, HD30 Phil Williams, SD10 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Kyle South, HD16 Greg Reed, SD5 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Ken Johnson, HD7 Martha Roby, CD2 Betty Peters, BOE2 Donnie Chesteen, HD87 Alan Harper, HD61

COUNTY Lee

Harri Anne Smith, SD29

Lowndes Macon

Cam Ward, SD14

CD=Congressional District

DEMOCRAT Pebblin Warren, HD82 Billy Beasley, SD28

Limestone

Madison

Martha Roby, CD2 Betty Peters, BOE2 Houston Martha Roby, CD2 Betty Peters, BOE2 Paul Lee, HD86 Donnie Chesteen, HD87 Steve Clouse, HD93 Jackson John Robinson, HD23 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Mo Brooks, CD5 Mary Scott Hunter, BOE8 Ritchie Whorton, HD22 Steve Livingston, SD8 Jefferson Terri Sewell, CD7 Gary Palmer, CD6 John Rogers, HD52 Tim Wadsworth, HD14 Rod Scott, HD55 Allen Farley, HD15 Louise Alexander, HD56 Kyle South, HD16 Merika Coleman-Evans, HD57 Arnold Mooney, HD43 Oliver Robinson, HD58 Danny Garrett, HD44 Mary Moore, HD59 Dickie Drake, HD45 Juandalynn Givan, HD60 David Faulkner, HD46 Rodger Smitherman, SD18 Jack Williams, HD47 Priscilla Dunn, SD19 Jim Carns, HD48 Linda Coleman, SD20 Allen Treadaway, HD51 Greg Reed, SD5 Cam Ward, SD14 Slade Blackwell, SD15 Jabo Waggoner, SD16 Shay Shelnutt, SD17 Lamar Robert Aderholt, CD4 Kyle South, HD16 Mike Millican, HD17 Gerald Allen, SD21 Lauderdale Greg Burdine, HD1 Mo Brooks, CD5 Johnny Mack Morrow, HD18 Lynn Greer, HD2 Roger Bedford, SD6 Tim Melson, SD1 Lawrence Marcel Black, HD3 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Roger Bedford, SD6 Ken Johnson, HD7 Paul Bussman, SD4 ELECTED OFFICE CODES:

INDEPENDENT

Terri Sewell, CD7 Kelvin Lawrence, HD69 Pebblin Warren, HD82 Billy Beasley, SD28 Laura Hall, HD19 Anthony Daniels, HD53

Harri Anne Smith, SD29

Marengo

Marion

Terri Sewell, CD7 Elaine Beech, HD65 Thomas Jackson, HD68 A.J. McCampbell, HD71 Ralph Howard, HD72 Bobby Singleton, SD24 Roger Bedford, SD6

Marshall

Mobile

BOE=Board of Education

Adline Clarke, HD97 Napoleon Bracy, HD98 James Buskey, HD99 Barbara Drummond, HD103 Vivian Davis-Figures, SD33

REPUBLICAN Mike Rogers, CD3 Betty Peters, BOE2 Mike Hubbard, HD79 Lesley Vance, HD80 Gary Head, HD83 Gerald Dial, SD13 Tom Whatley, SD27 Mo Brooks, CD5 Mary Scott Hunter, BOE8 Lynn Greer, HD2 Dan Williams, HD5 Phil Williams, HD6 Mac McCutcheon, HD25 Tim Melson, SD1 Bill Holtzclaw, SD2 Arthur Orr, SD3

INDEPENDENT

Mike Rogers, CD3 Mo Brooks, CD5 Mary Scott Hunter, BOE8 Phil Williams, HD6 Mike Ball, HD10 Howard Sanderford, HD20 Jim Patterson, HD21 Ritchie Whorton, HD22 Mac McCutcheon, HD25 Tim Melson, SD1 Bill Holtzclaw, SD2 Arthur Orr, SD3 Paul Sanford, SD7 Steve Livingston, SD8 Clay Scofield, SD9

Robert Aderholt, CD4 Mike Millican, HD17 Paul Bussman, SD4 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Cynthia McCarty, BOE6 Ed Henry, HD9 Randall Shedd, HD11 Kerry Rich, HD26 Will Ainsworth, HD27 David Standridge, HD34 Clay Scofield, SD9 Bradley Byrne, CD1 Randy Davis, HD96 Victor Gaston, HD100 Chris Pringle, HD101 Jack Williams, HD102 Margie Wilcox, HD104 David Sessions, HD105 Greg Albritton, SD22 Rusty Glover, SD32 Bill Hightower, SD35

HD=State House District

SD=State Senate District

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

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Be Sure To Vote On Nov. 4!

County-By-County COUNTY Monroe

DEMOCRAT Thomas Jackson, HD68

Montgomery Terri Sewell, CD7 Kelvin Lawrence, HD69 Thad McClammy, HD76

Morgan

Perry Pickens

Terri Sewell, CD7 Darrio Melton, HD67 Ralph Howard, HD72 Terri Sewell, CD7 A.J. McCampbell, HD71 Bobby Singleton, SD24

Pike Randolph

Josh Burns, HD37

Russell

Berry Forte, HD84 Billy Beasley, SD28

Shelby

ELECTED OFFICE CODES:

REPUBLICAN Bradley Byrne, CD1 Harry Shiver, HD64 Greg Albritton, SD22 Martha Roby, CD2 Mike Rogers, CD3 Dimitri Polizos, HD74 Reed Ingram, HD75 David Grimes, HD77 Tijuanna Adetunji, HD78 Chris Sells, HD90 Dick Brewbaker, SD25 Mo Brooks, CD5 Cynthia McCarty, BOE6 Ken Johnson, HD7 Terri Collins, HD8 Ed Henry, HD9 Randall Shedd, HD11 Arthur Orr, SD3

INDEPENDENT

COUNTY St. Clair

DEMOCRAT

Sumter

Talladega

Terri Sewell, CD7 A.J. McCampbell, HD71 Ralph Howard, HD72 Bobby Singleton, SD24 Barbara Boyd, HD32

Tallapoosa

Pebblin Warren, HD82

Tuscaloosa

Terri Sewell, CD7 Chris England, HD70 A.J. McCampbell, HD71 Bobby Singleton, SD24

Alan Harper, HD61 Gerald Allen, SD21 Martha Roby, CD2 Alan Boothe, HD89 Jimmy Holley, SD31 Mike Rogers, CD3 Betty Peters, BOE2 Gerald Dial, SD13 Mike Rogers, CD3 Betty Peters, BOE2 Lesley Vance, HD80 Gary Head, HD83 Tom Whatley, SD27 Gary Palmer, CD6 Allen Farley, HD15 Mike Hill, HD41 Arnold Mooney, HD43 Dickie Drake, HD45 Jim Carns, HD48 April Weaver, HD49 Matt Fridy, HD73 Jim McClendon, SD11 Cam Ward, SD14 Slade Blackwell, SD15 Jabo Waggoner, SD16 CD=Congressional District

Walker

Washington Elaine Beech, HD65 Thomas Jackson, HD68 Wilcox Terri Sewell, CD7 Kelvin Lawrence, HD69 Winston

BOE=Board of Education

REPUBLICAN Mike Rogers, CD3 Cynthia McCarty, BOE6 Mack Butler, HD30 Randy Wood, HD36 Jim Hill, HD50 Phil Williams, SD10 Jim McClendon, SD11 Shay Shelnutt, SD17

INDEPENDENT

Mike Rogers, CD3 Ron Johnson, HD33 Steve Hurst, HD35 Randy Wood, HD36 Jim McClendon, SD11 Del Marsh, SD12 Slade Blackwell, SD15 Shay Shelnutt, SD17 Mike Rogers, CD3 Betty Peters, BOE2 Mark Tuggle, HD81 Tom Whatley, SD27 Clyde Chambliss, Jr., SD30 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Kyle South, HD16 Alan Harper, HD61 Rich Wingo, HD62 Bill Poole, HD63 Greg Reed, SD5 Gerald Allen, SD21 Robert Aderholt, CD4 Connie Cooner Rowe, HD13 Tim Wadsworth, HD14 Greg Reed, SD5 Bradley Byrne, CD1 Greg Albritton, SD22

Robert Aderholt, CD4 Ken Johnson, HD7 Tim Wadsworth, HD14 Mike Millican, HD17 Paul Bussman, SD4 Greg Reed, SD5

HD=State House District

SD=State Senate District

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

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NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

Federation, Farmers Co-op To Launch Simply Southern TV Show

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he Alabama Farmers Federation and Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC) are launching a new statewide television show Jan. 4 focused on agriculture, gardening, rural lifestyles and rural youth programs.

“This is a great opportunity to educate the public about the importance of agriculture while featuring some of Alabama’s most interesting places and innovative people,” said Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan. “We are excited to partner with Alabama Farmers Cooperative in producing the new television show. We share a common mission to strengthen agriculture and promote a better appreciation for Alabama Farmers Federation Broadcast Director Kevin Worthington shoots footage of East farmers and the rural way of life.”

Lawrence Middle School students planting fall greens in the school garden for a segment that will The show titled “Simply Southair on “Simply Southern.” ern” will air Sunday mornings across Alabama on major network respected agricultural organizations urban and suburban audiences television stations. It builds on the in the Southeast.” who know little about production success of AFC’s previous televiFederation Communications agriculture, but who are interested sion program, “Time Well Spent,” Director Jeff Helms said he hopes in gardening, food and rural tourwhich aired on RFD-TV. viewers will enjoy the program and ism. By offering a mix of stories, we “Simply Southern” is being record episodes to view later or hope to entertain and educate viewproduced by Federation Broadcast share with friends. ers while still appealing to the core Director Kevin Worthington. Each “This show has the potential to membership bases of the Federation episode will include a farming stobe one of the most effective public and AFC.” ry, a gardening segment sponsored relations projects the Federation The Federation and AFC decided

by Bonnie Plants, a rural lifestyle has initiated in the last 20 years,” to offer the program on network TV feature with AFC Director of Public said Helms. “Our goal is to reach because some potential audiences Relations and don’t have access Advertising Jim to cable or satellite Allen and a story programming. The about 4-H, FFA, Ag partners chose topin the Classroom, rated stations in each Sunday Mornings Beginning Jan. 4 Farm-City or other of Alabama’s televirural youth activision markets to air ties.

“Simply Southern.”

MARKET STATION TIME “I’m fired up The show will air Birmingham WBMA-TV 33/40 6 AM to be promoting at 6 a.m. Sundays in Huntsville WAFF-TV 48 6 AM Alabama and surBirmingham, HuntsMontgomery WSFA-TV 12 6 AM rounding states on ville, Montgomery Mobile WKRG-TV 5 6:30 AM television again,” and Dothan, and at Dothan WTVY-TV 4 6 AM Allen said. “I’ve 6:30 a.m. in Mobile Columbus, Ga., WTVM-TV 9 6:30 AM worked closely and Columbus, Ga. with Alfa through Stay tuned to the years and, AlfaFarmers.org believe me, ‘Simand AlaFarm.com ply Southern’ is a for more informaperfect union of tion about “Simply two of the most Southern.” n

Simply Southern

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Traveling Tourists Welcomed With Alabama Apples

By A.J. Watson

V

isitors from around the world are getting a taste of Alabama one bushel at a time with apples from Isom’s Orchard in Limestone County.

The Limestone County Farmers Federation’s Women’s Leadership Committee supplies apples, coloring books and bookmarks to the Alabama Welcome Center off Interstate 65 north of Athens to help educate visitors on local agriculture. But the committee’s Chair Patty Marsh said it’s the crisp, fresh apples that leave a tasty impression about the state.

“We try to promote local commodities, and the best way to do that is by sharing,” Marsh said. “The Isoms raise the apples, and by letting visitors know they’re locally grown, I think it means a lot.”

Wes and Marlene Isom farm 240 acres in Limestone County and grow peaches, apples, pumpkins, sweet corn and other vegetables. The Isoms operate a retail roadside business on U.S. Hwy 72 with their children Kent, Lee and Mary Alice, and their nephew, Joseph.

The Isoms also give peaches to the welcome center and sell apples to Athens and Limestone County school systems.

Wes said the family raised cotton and cattle for hundreds of years, but his grandfather planted the first apple trees in 1966.

“We once had more than 100 acres of apples,” Wes said. “We’re at about 60 now, but the root stocks we’re using are more manageable, so we’re producing higher yields now than we were before.”

Their mainstays are golden delicious, gala, Fuji and Granny Smith apples, and they recently started growing candy crisp, gold rush and enterprise.

Alabama Farmers Federation Horticulture Division Director Mac Higginbotham said businesses like Isom’s Orchard are important because they put farmers and consumers face-to-face.

“The language of food is universal,” Higginbotham said. “Food creates a special bond between people, and businesses like Isom’s Orchard are a way to get consumers talking about farming, and farmers talking

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Top: Visitors grab Isom Orchard apples at the Alabama Welcome Center in Limestone County, provided by the county’s Women’s Leadership Committee. Above: Limestone County Women’s Leadership Committee Chair Patty Marsh, left, welcomes visitors.

about food.”

The Isoms open to their farm to the public in late May until November, and they’re always getting visitors from in- and out-of-state.

“We love our customers,” Marlene said. “We have a lot of people from Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois and Indiana.

Once they find you, they plan their trips around visiting. Everyone’s got a good story, and I want to hear all of them.” n 12

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Donald Sewell President Etowah County Donald Sewell has spent most of his life raising cattle, row crops and children on his Southside farm in Etowah County. While he’s enjoyed success as a cattleman and farmer, he said watching his children grow up to work on the farm gives him the most pleasure.

“I love watching plants grow from seed to maturity,” said Sewell, who married his high school sweetheart, Barbara, 39 years ago. “I love watching baby calves, and I have loved raising our children and grandchildren on the farm.”

In addition to being county president, Sewell served as county board vice president and county Young Farmers Committee chairman.

“Every day on the farm is a good day,” said Sewell, 59. “Some are just more challenging.”

Serving in several leadership capacities at Southside Baptist Church, Sewell also is a Soil and Water Conservation District supervisor and is on the county FSA committee.

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Alfa Foundation Scholarship Recipients Announced

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he Alfa Foundation awarded $1,000 scholarships to 50 Alabama college students enrolled in 16 different schools in the program’s inaugural year.

“As a father of a college senior, I understand the impact of rising tuition costs on families and students,” said Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell. “We hope our gift will ease some of that burden and allow the recipients to focus more on studies and gaining valuable professional experience.”

Scholarship America® administered the scholarship program and based its selection on academic record, participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience and future goals.

Almost 800 applications were received from high school seniors and post-secondary undergraduates enrolled or planning to enroll in an Alabama two- or four-year college, university or technical school.

The scholarship may be used for tuition, fees, books and supplies required for coursework.

For almost 70 years, Alfa has proudly supported education by being active in the communities it serves.

The Alfa Foundation has helped advance learning through the Teacher of the Year and Teacher of the Month programs; investments in colleges and universities; support for career technical education; computer donations; and other efforts. n

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2014 Alfa Foun

dation Scholarships Athens State Unive rsity: Ashley Owen of Harvest and Tiffa Stevens of Boaz ny Auburn University: Hayley Anderson of Butler, Brandon Buck of Auburn, Harrison elew Burch of Opp, Jarel Fryer of Louisville, James Johnson of Eu faula, Kandice Larri more of Brewton, Lu McGee of Fyffe, Will cas iam McGraw of Camd en, Olivia Mims of Vestavia Hills, Ch andler Mulvaney of Opelika, Catherine Taylor of Foley, Evan Venable of Wetump ka, Mary White of Decatur and Joshua Williams of Boaz Birmingham-Southe rn College: Nellie Sta llsmith of Parrish Calhoun Community College: Macy Alred of Hartselle Huntingdon College : Lauren Condon of Mobile and Kalen M of Deatsville organ Jacksonville State Un iversity: Gena Bake r of Oneonta, Kaely Crowe of Anniston n and Lindsey Ragan of Eastaboga Southern Union Sta te Community Colle ge: Christopher Lang of Camp Hill ley Troy University: Ci erra Brinson of Mon tgomery and Colin Edwards of Rainbow City University of Alabam a: Kathryn Anderso n of Guntersville, Ke Curtis of Montgome lsey ry, Keaton Gallowa y of Vernon, Nivory Gordon III of Furman , Noah Langley of Ad dison, Delainy Lee of Daphne, Rachel M cCombs of Besseme r, Rebecca Murdoch Montgomery, Madiso of n Redmill of Jasper, Katherine Robinson of Hazel Green, Lillia n Roth of Montgome ry and Dylan Stephenson of Hartsell e University of Alabam a at Birmingham: M agdalene Blevins of vest and Amanda Vi Harikinsalo of Trussvill e University of Alabam a-Huntsville: Cecillia Mahathey of Arab University of Mobile : Caleb Zessin of Flo rala University of Montev allo: Haley Barnett of Thorsby, Lakeyn Edwards of Clanton , Patrick Gant of Pis gah and John Gasso Clanton n of University of North Alabama: Katheryn Broman of Rogersvill Rachel Hutto of Hills e and boro University of South Alabama: Michelle Thompson of Madiso Wallace State Comm n unity College-Fort Ru cker: Kailey Weed of Dothan

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NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

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Randy Gilmore President Jefferson County An avid hunter and outdoorsman, Randy Gilmore said preserving the family farm and the rights of private landowners are big challenges he and other farmers face.

“I love the land and the people involved in agriculture,” he said. “Farmers in our organization are some of the best people anywhere.”

Gilmore, 66, rose through the ranks of the Alabama Farmers Federation, serving on the Young Farmers state committee. He has served as a FarmPAC representative and as a member of the Long Range Planning, Membership Development and State Wildlife committees. He served six years on the Alabama Forestry Commission and was Alabama Treasure Forest Association president.

He and his wife of 45 years, Dale, have three children and two grandsons. Their farm includes 800 acres of timber, which is enrolled in the TREASURE Forest program.

Ronnie Milsap Live at the Alabama Farmers Federation 93rd Annual Meeting Sunday, Dec. 7 at 7:30pm For ticket information, contact the MPAC theater box office at 334-481-5100, or Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000. Tickets range in price by seating priority from $55, $45, $35, and $25. Ticket sales are non-refundable.

Presented by:

Alabama Farmers Federation

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NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

Auburn, Gadsden State Partner On Poultry Degree Program

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oung people in Alabama’s northeast corner now have a fast track to careers in poultry science, thanks to a partnership between Auburn University and Gadsden State Community College.

A new 2+2 program between the two schools will allow Gadsden State students to complete their freshman and sophomore years at the Cherokee campus and their junior Attending the announcement were, from left, State Sen. Phil Williams, R-Rainbow City; Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey; Gadsden State Community College Interim President Dr. Martha Lavender; Gadsden State - Cherokee Campus Director Luanne and senior years at Hayes; Auburn University Associate Dean of Instruction Dr. Paul Patterson; and State Rep. Richard Lindsey, D-Centre.

Auburn, graduating with bachelor’s degrees in poultry science from State partnership is a part of that 65 percent of annual agricultural Auburn University. During their forward movement.” revenue in the state. The Gadsden years at Gadsden State, students A similar partnership with WalState Cherokee campus lies in the in the program will complete core lace State Community College in heart of northeast Alabama, the coursework, including introductory Hanceville was announced in 2013 state’s most productive poultry poultry science classes, which will and has been a success, according region. transfer to Auburn. to Don Conner, head of Auburn’s “Poultry has a huge economic Working with officials from Department of Poultry Science. impact in northeast Alabama, and Auburn and Gadsden State since “We wanted to build on the suc- students from that area who want 2012, State Sen. Phil Williams, cess of that partnership by expanda career in poultry science can R-Rainbow City, was instrumental ing within an area of the state now complete part of their educain the program’s establishment, where poultry production plays a tion close to home,” said Alabama pointing to its potential to provide key economic role,” Conner said, Farmers Federation Poultry Divinew job training and educational adding that demand for poultry scision Director Guy Hall.

For more information, contact opportunities for ence graduates is high, as evidenced Cherokee County by the department’s 100 percent job Williams at (334) 242-7857, Conner at (334) 844-4133 or Luanne Hayes of residents. He said placement rate of graduates for the Gadsden State at (256) 927-1805. n he is pleased with the past several years. efforts of leaders on “We are pleased to be working both campuses to turn with the Auburn poultry science Grower Direct Grow half-dollar size a “rough idea” he profaculty to bring an innovative Muscadines posed two years ago into program to the students at Gadsand Blackberries. a reality that will benden State Cherokee,” said Martha We also offer over efit people not only in his Lavender, interim president of 200 varieties of Fruit district, but throughout the the school. “I believe this type of and Nut Trees plus Vine state. collaboration benefits both instiand Berry Plants.

“With an educated and tutions, but more importantly, it Since 1934 well-trained workforce, expands learning opportunities for Alabama will continue to our students.”

PO Box 190 move forward,” Williams A $15 billion-a-year industry in Brooks, GA 30205 1-800-733-0324 • isons.com Free Catalog said. “The Auburn/Gadsden Alabama, poultry sales account for

Ison’s Nursery

NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

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Photo by Darin Clifton

Peanut Farmers Dig In For Annual Harvest

Photo by Mary Johnson

By Jill Clair Gentry and Mary Johnson

A

familiar cloud of dust hangs over thousands of acres across Alabama this time of year.

From fields as far north as Lawrence County and south to the Florida line, the dirty job is a necessary part of digging a peanut crop from the ground.

For a farmer like Glen Walters, the dust is a mark of fall, and the smell of a peanut harvest is unmistakable.

“You can be riding by with the windows up, and you can just smell that sweet smell,” Walters said.

“I’ve been farming 43 years and have had 43 crops of peanuts. That smell is always the same.”

And there’s nothing quite like standing in a peanut field on a cool autumn morning, smelling that smell and popping a green peanut in your mouth, said Glen’s wife, Phyllis.

“It’s only natural to break one open to see how mature they are, and I’m not going to throw it down if I’ve already got it in my hand,” she said, smiling.

Walters began farming on his own in 1971 just outside of Andalusia on the same land he grew up farming with his father. He remem-

Lawrence County Sam Spruell predicts a good harvest for his peanut crop in northwest Alabama.

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NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

said.

In contrast, peanut farmer Sam Spruell said his harvest has been above average at around 5,200 pounds per acre. Spruell planted 800 acres of the crop this year in northwest Alabama — hundreds of miles from the traditional heart of peanut country.

“Our long-term average is about 4,800 pounds per acre,” said Spruell, who grows peanuts in Lawrence, Marion and Lamar counties.

“One thing that makes peanuts appealing to us is we don’t have the same disease pressure they do in South Alabama. I’m not sure why, but that helps keep our costs down.”

Overall, more than 60 percent of the state’s crop is rated very poor, poor or fair according to the USDA’s Oct. 6 Crop Progress and Condition Report.

Fortunately, Alabama farmers planted 35,000 more acres of

peanuts this year and are expected to harvest 516 million pounds, a 5-percent increase from the 2013 harvest.

Walters said no matter what — a good year, a bad year, rain or no rain — he is grateful to have been a farmer his entire life. He can’t imagine doing anything else.

“It’s hard to put it into words,” he said. “In the spring of the year, you get to plant a seed and watch it grow until it reaches maturity. You get to watch it change every day.

Every day except Sunday, I’m out in the field — I love it.

“And it’s taught me so much about faith. I really have no control over it. I can’t make a seed germinate; I can’t make it rain; I can’t make the sun shine. As I’ve grown older, I’ve realized I’m not in control. It takes faith. But through all these years, our farm has provided for us. We’ve been blessed.” n

Photo by Jill Clair Gentry

bers when growing and harvesting peanuts required more labor and produced far fewer peanuts.

“First, you plowed them up with a tractor, and then you toted them to a pole and stacked them around it,” Walters said. “That stack would be eight feet high, and they would cap it off to help keep it dry. It might be two months after pulling the peanuts up before the picker got there.”

In addition to waiting on the community’s peanut picker to make it around to all the farms, Walters remembers when farmers struggled to prevent disease from ruining their entire peanut crop.

“We didn’t have any fungicides when I was young, and disease ate those peanuts up,” he said. “It’s not as much of a problem since fungicides were introduced, and they also started developing better varieties of peanuts, which have just gotten better throughout my farming career.”

However, not all problems were solved with the advent of modern technology. Peanut farmers still face many variables.

“We had a lot of dry weather this year,” Walters said. “Our yield will be off over 1,000 pounds per acre. And the dry weather caused us to have more disease pressure.

It’s just going to be an off year in our area for farmers. As goes the peanuts, so goes the cotton.”

Some regions of the state faced dry summer weather and others were deluged with rain, causing higher disease pressure, Walters Covington County farmer Glen Walters said dry weather significantly reduced yields for his peanut crop.

Photo by Darin Clifton

NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

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Hope Farmers are eternal optimists. Even when disaster spoils the harvest, farmers see promise in the next crop. At the Alabama Farmers Federation, we cultivate hope by providing educational opportunities to help future farmers thrive.

AlfaFarmers.org

Alabama Farmers Federation is a membership organization built by farmers as an advocate for agriculture, family values and good government to improve life for all Alabamians.

Good Eats Highlighted On Bon Appetit Appalachia Trail

By Mary Johnson

H

ungry travelers have a new guide to satisfy their appetites for unique flavors in north and central Alabama thanks to the “Bon Appetit! Bon Appalachia!” trail campaign. A project of the Appalachia Regional Commission’s (ARC) Tourism Council, the trail winds through 13 states and features 283 farms, restaurants, farmers markets, festivals, wineries and breweries in the Appalachian region.

The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association (AMLTA) hosted a celebration at Belle Chevre, a goat cheese creamery and shop in Elkmont, to highlight the 64 trail sites in Alabama.

“People want to find agritourism locations and local foods,” Lawrence County farmer Larry LouAllen said. “I think this new map will be a tremendous help connecting us with more people.”

LouAllen is a sixth-generation farmer who grows produce, including strawberries and peaches, and raises beef cattle. His LouAllen Farms and the Lawrence County Farmers Market, where he sells produce, are both featured on the trail.

AMLTA President Tami Reist said the campaign brings a needed focus to the state’s Appalachian region.

“This new map celebrates food, but it’s also about teaching the importance and value of entrepreneurship,” Reist said.

The “Bon Appetit! Bon Appalachia!” trail map was published in the summer 2014 issue of Food Traveler Magazine. However, ARC officials plan to update the trail website, visitappalachia.com/ bonappetitappalachia, with additional locations. n

NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

LouAllen Farms owner Larry LouAllen, center, accepts a plaque for being included in the trail.

From left are Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Director Jim Byard, LouAllen and Appalachia Regional Commission Federal Co-Chair Earl Gohl.

Alabama farms and businesses included in the printed map are: Crow Creek Pumpkin Patch, Stevenson Farm-to-Fork Restaurants 1892 East Restaurant and Tavern, Huntsville City Hardware Restaurant, Florence Greenbrier Restaurant, Madison Pie Lab, Greensboro Twin Gables Inn, Vernon Wind Creek Hospitality Good To Go Food Truck, Wetumpka

Farmers Markets

Alexander City Downtown Market, Alex City Bibb County Farmers Market, Centreville East Lake Farmers Market, Birmingham Festhalle Market Platz, Cullman Gordo Farmers Market, Gordo Historic Langdale Farmers Market, Valley Homegrown Alabama Farmers Market, Tuscaloosa Jack O’Lantern Farms, Muscle Shoals Lawrence County Farmers Market, Moulton Ledger’s Landing, Wetumpka Leeds Farmers Market, Leeds Linn Park Market, Birmingham Madison City Farmers Market, Madison North Sand Mountain Farmers Market, Mentone Northport Farmers Market, Northport Peach Park, Clanton Pepper Place Market, Birmingham Spradlin Farm, Vinemont Valleydale Farmers Market, Birmingham

Farm Tours

1818 Farms, Mooresville Barber Berry Farm, Millbrook Belle Chevre Creamery and Cheese Shop, Elkmont Blue Bell Creamery, Sylacauga Burnette Farms, Thorsby Burritt on the Mountain, Huntsville 21

Homestead Farm, Talladega LouAllen Farms, Moulton McGee Farm, Florence Oakview Farms Granary, Wetumpka Reeves Peach Farm, Hartselle Sneaky Crow Farm, Roanoke Steele Orchard, Cullman Tate Farms, Meridianville Wright Dairy, Alexandria

Festivals And Events

Alabama Gourd Festival, Cullman Alabama Poultry and Farm Expo, Boaz Catfish Festival, Scottsboro Cotton-Picking BBQ Cook Off, Hartselle Decatur Jaycees RiverFest and BBQ Cook Off, Decatur Helena Market Days, Helena WhistleStop Weekend, Huntsville

Wineries And Vineyards

Bryant Vineyard, Talladega Fruithurst Winery, Fruithurst Hidden Meadow Vineyard, Jemison Hodges Vineyards, Camp Hill Jules J. Berta Vineyards, Albertville Maraella Winery, Gadsden Morgan Creek Vineyards, Harpersville Ozan Vineyard and Winery, Calera Whippoorwill Vineyards, Notasulga White Oak Vineyards, Anniston Wills Creek Vineyard, Attalla

Craft Breweries

Back Forty Beer Co., Gadsden Straight to Ale Brewery, Huntsville Good People Brewing Co., Birmingham Blue Pants Brewery, Madison

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Farm-City Week Celebrates Partnership Of Rural And Urban America

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to deliver the promise of abundant food and fiber.

Seven billion people worldwide depend on agriculture for sustenance, and the number is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050. That means each farmer must not only continue feeding about 155 people, but he or she also must find ways to be more efficient and productive.

In Alabama, Farm-City Week activities include farm tours, banquets, civic club events, food drives and youth activities. The FarmCity poster, essay and multimedia contests are among the most popular programs.

“Thanks to volunteers like our county Young Farmers and Women’s Leadership divisions, Alabama has one of the strongest Farm-City programs in the country,” Helms said. “‘Agriculture: 365 Sunrises and 7 Billion Mouths to Feed’ is another reminder that we should never take our food — or the rural-urban partnerships that bring it to our tables — for granted.”

Visit AlabamaFarmCity.org for more information about Farm-City. n

tudents and volunteers throughout Alabama will honor farmers’ year-round work to feed the world as the state celebrates Farm-City Week Nov. 21-27.

“Agriculture: 365 Sunrises and 7 Billion Mouths to Feed” is the theme for National Ag Day and Farm-City activities this year.

“As the sun comes up on Alabama agriculture each day, we find farmers feeding cows, walking through chicken houses, working on farm machinery, planting crops, harvesting fields, greeting customers at the farmers market, watching the weather and praying for blessings from above,” said Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms. “But, if we look closer, we’ll also see them creating habitat for wildlife, protecting streams from erosion, helping neighbors, leading communities, teaching children and creating jobs for thousands in nearby towns and cities.”

Farm-City Week is a chance to educate children and adults about the contributions farmers make to society and how rural families depend on their city neighbors

What’s Cookin’ for Thanksgiving?

A Collection of Recipes from Alabama’s Farm Families and Country Cooks.

Alabama farmers represent one of the most agriculturally diverse states in the country, growing everything from soybeans to sweet potatoes and cattle to catfish. This cookbook, produced in hardback form, introduces you to these farmers who grow our food, along with 200 recipes and beautiful food photography highlighting some of Alabama’s best country cooks.

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NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

Book Donation Brings Farming Into Classrooms

By Mary Johnson

F

ourth-grade students at Tanner School giggled as they listened to the magical journey of picky-eater Phineas Quinn who traveled to farms in a flying tomato balloon with Mr. Mattoo.

Phineas is the main character in “Who Grew My Soup?” a storybook the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation (AFAF) donated to more than 900 public and private elementary school libraries in the state.

“Right now, book donations are everything to school libraries,” said Tanner School assistant librarian Donna Hammett. “That’s basically how we survive because we don’t have a budget to buy books.”

Limestone County Farmers Federation’s Women’s Leadership Committee member Donnis Looney delivered the donated book to the Tanner School library and read the story to the visiting class.

Students were full of questions for Donnis and her husband, Paul, the Limestone County Farmers Federation president.

“What does edible mean?” one student asked.

“If ketchup is made of tomatoes, then what is mustard made of?” another one asked.

Their inquisitive minds are NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

Limestone County Farmers Federation President Paul Looney, standing, and his wife, county Women’s Leadership Committee member Donnis, read “Who Grew My Soup?” to fourth-graders at Tanner School.

evidence the book encourages students to ask questions about food and is an effective way to share information about farming.

“Our main goal is to promote education in agriculture,” Paul said. “This is one way to do that. Children now are so removed from farming, we have to go through schools to teach them about where their food and fiber come from.”

“Who Grew My Soup?” is on the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture’s Accurate Ag Books list. It was reprinted in 2013 as part of the national Ag in the Classroom program.

“Many school-aged children have never been to a farm, and they don’t understand that food has to be grown by farmers before it’s delivered to a grocery store,” said Federation Women’s Leadership 23

Division Director Kim Ramsey. “I think students will really enjoy this book because it introduces them to farming in a fun way. The story rhymes, and a lot of kids will relate to the main character.”

The AFAF supports and advances agriculture in the state by investing in education and research. In fiscal year 2013, the group helped sponsor the Junior Beef Expo Showmanship Contest in Montgomery and the Alabama Ag in the Classroom Summer Institute. It also provided more than 50 college students with scholarships through a new fund-matching program with participating county Federations. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Farming is a business of uncertainty, but here’s something you can count on.

Chevrolet presents this exclusive $500 private offer 1 toward the purchase or lease of an all-new Chevy Silverado — the 2014 North American Truck of the Year. From the family of the most dependable, longest-lasting full-size pickups 2 in America, rest assured your Silverado will keep you working without skipping a beat.

1 Offer available through 4/1/17. Available on qualified 2014 and 2015 Chevrolet vehicles. This offer is not available with some other offers. Only customers who have been active members of an eligible Farm Bureau for a minimum of 30 days will be eligible to receive a certificate. Customers can obtain certificates at www.fbverify.com/gm. Farm Bureau and the FB logo are registered service marks of the American Farm Bureau Federation and are used herein under license by General Motors. 2 Dependability based on longevity: 1987–April 2013 full-size pickup registrations.

Alabama Farmers Federation

Barbour, Milsap Headline Federation Annual Meeting

C

ountry music star Ronnie Milsap and former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour will provide a combination of entertainment and politics for Alabama Farmers Federation members attending the organization’s 93rd annual meeting in Montgomery Dec. 7-8.

Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell will kick off the meeting Sunday, Dec. 7, at 4 p.m. with the first general session, which includes his annual report to members and presentation of the Service to Agriculture Award, the Federation’s highest honor. All conference meetings will be held in the Montgomery Convention Center or the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre (MPAC).

Grammy-award winning country music star Ronnie Milsap will take the MPAC stage Sunday evening at 7:30 p.m. Concert tickets are required for admission.

Monday, Dec. 8, is full of meetings, contests, awards programs and

elections. Among the highlights will be the Ag Foundation Breakfast, a silent auction and Young Farmers’ contests.

The morning general session Barbour features the presentation of the Communications Award for excellent coverage of agricultural events and awards for outstanding individuals, leaders and county Federations.

Breakout sessions that morning will include policy discussions, the American Farm Bureau Federation update and a Farm Bill panel. Later that day, 500 voting delegates will meet to consider policy recommendations and elect district directors and officers to the state board.

The closing session will feature Barbour as the keynote speaker.

While serving as governor, he gained national attention in 2005 when

Hurricane Katrina hit his state.

Winners in the Federation’s Young Farmer contests will be announced at the closing session.

The winner of this year’s Outstanding Young Farm Family contest will haul home prizes valued at more than $60,000, including a 2015 Chevrolet or GM model truck valued at $35,000 courtesy of Alfa Insurance. Other prizes for the 2014 OYFF include a John Deere Gator courtesy of Alabama Farm Credit and Alabama Ag Credit; and the lease of a John Deere tractor courtesy of SunSouth, TriGreen and Snead Ag dealers. Winners in Discussion Meet and Excellence in Ag also will be recognized. Winners in all three contests will represent Alabama in national competitions at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) annual convention in San Diego in January.

For a link to convention details and a full agenda, visit AlfaFarmers. org. n

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through summer (especially in the shade), and turn brilliant red again in the fall. These trees are more likely to hold red spring color longer in the sun than shade.

Japanese maples are much admired for the shape of the leaves that vary from full to lacy. The lacy cutleaf types generally need more shade and are more susceptible to drought because their leaves are so fine. Cutleaf types with a weeping form make spectacular specimen plants in the ground or in a large container.

When the leaves drop, a beautiful, pendulous twiggy sculpture is revealed for winter. ‘Waterfall’ is a popular, weeping cutleaf type with green leaves that turn beautiful shades of gold and orange in the fall. The trick to growing the weeping maples in a container is making sure they are kept moist. This can be made easy with a drip system on a timer.

Japanese maples are well suited for urban landscapes, with mature sizes ranging from up to 30 feet tall to weeping dwarfs no more than 2 or 3 feet tall.

Because there are multiple forms and colors to choose from, do some research to learn more about these beautiful, dependable trees. Be sure to look for varieties that grow in Zones 8 or 9 and are proven to be heat tolerant.

Because these trees are so showy this time of year, there is likely to be an assortment at local garden centers. Fall is the ideal time to plant. Some Internet research on “Japanese maples in Alabama” is likely to bring up good reading to help make an informed selection and perhaps a nearby nursery or mail order source.

Many Japanese maples are grafted and slow growing, so they may seem pricey. The faster-growing selections are closer in price to other trees. Either way, the challenge will be narrowing it down from the many great ones to choose from. n __________________________

By Lois Chaplin

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all color usually reaches its peak in early November, but the Japanese maples like to wait just a little later. In so doing, it seems they get more glory, and it is deserved. They provide dependable color year after year, whether it is a “good” fall or not, and they vary the show in yellow, orange or red—depending on the cultivar. Folks with both the inclination and the space can enjoy a collection of Japanese maple trees chosen for each color of fall.

There are dozens of Japanese maple varieties available. The largest concentration is in the Pacific Northwest, where both the climate and the Japanese population contribute to their widespread use. In Japan, where the trees are native and have spiritual and cultural significance, cultivars number 1,000 or more.

Long a subject of Japanese art and literature, these graceful and elegant trees are nothing short of spectacular in form, texture and color.

In the South, many trees are selected for heat tolerance, but other cultivars do well here. Now is a good time to shop for them to see their fall color first hand. Leaf color can vary among the many cultivars of Japanese maple trees in each season, so it’s important to consider color in spring, summer and fall. For example, ‘Moonfire’ and ‘Bloodgood’ are two whose leaves emerge red in the spring, gradually fade to green

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

FALL BARGAINS. WWW.ALAFARM.COM w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

Loans to young, beginning, small and non-traditional farmers.

Direct loans from First South or participation with the USDA Farm Service Agency and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

First South supports individuals seeking financial avenues to enter Alabama’s retail agricultural markets.

Financing land, farms and dreams. firstsouthland.com 800-955-1722

Goodness Never Gets Old Grab an ice-cold cola and a bag of peanuts, and let the memories pour.

It's a refreshing tradition enjoyed by generations throughout the South.

www.AiPeanuts.com

Local Food Hub Connects Farmers, Consumers

By A.J. Watson

C

ullman County sweet potatoes graced the plates of more than 44,600 north Alabama students Sept. 18 for the official launch of the Farm Food Collaborative (FFC).

The FFC is north Alabama’s first local food hub to help farmers sell locally grown produce to schools, workplace cafeterias, distributors, restaurants and grocery stores.

Sweet potatoes from founding collaborative member and Cullman County farmer Clark Haynes were served in 80 schools in Madison County.

“It feels good that people want to know who is growing their food,” Haynes said. “I didn’t know if I’d see that in my lifetime. It’s a real good change.”

The collaborative is a project by the Food Bank of North Alabama (FBNA), with support from the Boeing Co., Boeing Employees Community Fund, Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, Appalachian Regional Commission, the Walmart Foundation, The Wallace Center, U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Madison County Commission.

“The launch of the Farm Food Collective is a win for local farmers, a win for Alabama families trying to make healthy food choices and a win for Alabama’s economy,” said FBNA Executive Director Kathryn Strickland.

Planning for the project began more than a year ago. It was designed to help family farms thrive, increase access to local, healthy food and strengthen the region’s economy, Strickland said.

Alabama Farmers Federation Division Director of Horticulture Mac Higginbotham echoed Strickland’s sentiments.

“We’re glad our farmers are getting the opportunity to directly nourish the minds and bodies of tomorrow’s leaders,” he said. “This truly is a collaborative effort, and all involved will reap the benefits of buying fresh and local.”

Since its soft launch in 2012, the food hub has facilitated distribution of more than $293,000 of locally grown produce and provided almost 500,000 pounds of fresh food to participating groups and businesses.

Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of the program isn’t the monetary incentive farmers receive.

It’s the satisfaction Haynes and other farmers get from newfound-fans of what they grow.

NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

Above: Cullman County farmer Clark Haynes in a sweet potato field. Below: Third-grader Austin Whitman of Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School in Huntsville enjoys Cullman County sweet potatoes.

Austin Whitman, a third-grader at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School in Huntsville, discovered he liked fresh vegetables.

“I used to not like sweet potatoes, but these are really good,” he said. n 29

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Q: Why do your #1 customers act like a bunch of animals? ☐ It’s the only way to get some service around here. ☐ They specifically asked for the mayo on the side. ☐ Because your soybeans’ most important customers are animals.

Your soybeans travel a lot farther than just the local grain elevator. Go to www.BeyondTheElevator.com to learn more about your number one customers AND your operation’s profitability.

www.BeyondTheElevator.com ©2011 United Soybean Board (41216-ALSB-4/11)

Photo by Debra Davis

Six-year old Callie Rae Childers of Hartselle exhibits in beginner showmanship.

Alfa Promotes Youth Livestock Events Through Fair Sponsorships

By A.J. Watson

T

he Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance gave more than 300 students an opportunity to experience the tradition of agricultural fairs by sponsoring the youth livestock shows at the Alabama National Fair in Montgomery Oct. 3-13.

Exhibitors showed lambs, goats, dairy cattle, beef cattle and hogs at the annual event, which is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery, the third-largest Kiwanis Club in the world.

“Sponsoring the youth events at the fair is an investment in agriculture, and it’s an investment in our children,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “These young people showing livestock today will be the leaders of tomorrow.”

Alabama Farmers Federation Beef, Equine, Hay and Forage and NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

Meat Goat and Sheep Director Nate Jaeger said showing livestock is the very core of how fairs started.

“Alfa is pleased to be a sponsor of the fair and proud to be a part of that heritage,” Jaeger said “The skills these young people learn will stay with them long after they leave the ring. A lot of great people and organizations teamed up to make this happen.”

Others involved in the livestock shows were Alabama Cooperative Extension System, 4-H, FFA, the Department of Agriculture and Industries, Auburn University College of Agriculture, parents and volunteers. The Alabama Soybean Producers provided T-shirts to all students who competed in the Youth Premier Exhibition Competition.

Hannah Slay of Chambers County said she started showing sheep when she was under 2 years old, but along with birthdays, her appreciation and love of showing continued to grow.

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“I like the atmosphere and the people,” she said. “I like winning, but it’s not all about winning ribbons for me. I like coming out here and having fun. It takes a lot of hard work, and you have to be really dedicated to showing.”

Federation Dairy, Pork and Poultry Division Director Guy Hall said the help of so many different organizations shows the strength of Alabama agriculture.

“The fair livestock events wouldn’t be such a success without all the hard work of many organizations, volunteers and parents,” he said. “By working together we can help teach our youth responsibility, work ethic, sportsmanship, livestock care, teamwork and other solid life lessons.”

For photos of the fair, visit the Alabama Farmers Federation Facebook and Flickr pages. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

AFRICAN PEANUT STEW Start to finish: 55 minutes (25 minutes active) 1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and grated (use small holes on a cheese grater) 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 medium onion, diced 1 medium sweet potato, ½-inch diced 1 teaspoon cumin ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 6-ounce can tomato paste ½ cup chunky peanut butter 6 cups chicken broth 1 bunch (2-3 cups chopped) collard greens Cilantro for garnish

By Jill Clair Gentry

Sauté ginger and garlic in vegetable oil over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes soft and fragrant. Add onion and sweet potato and cook until onion is soft, about 5 minutes.

Add cumin, red pepper flakes, tomato paste and peanut butter. Stir until combined. Add chicken broth and stir. Increase heat to high and cover.

Bring soup to a boil and add chopped collard greens.

Turn heat to low and allow it to simmer, uncovered, for about 15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are soft. Smash about half of the sweet potatoes with the back of a wooden spoon or potato masher to help thicken soup. Taste, and add salt if needed.

Serve hot with cilantro.

P

eanuts are a staple in the American diet, and they’re just as popular in other cultures.

From Asian to African to American cuisine, peanuts and peanut butter are common ingredients in main dishes, desserts and sauces.

Phyllis and Glen Walters know all about the versatile, cross-cultural peanut — they love taking nuts with them overseas on their mission trips to Haiti, Honduras and Nicaragua.

“One of our favorite things to do when we go on mission trips is to take packs of peanuts from the Alabama Peanut Producers Association,” Phyllis says. “We hand them

out to the children we meet, leave them with the orphanages and give them to missionaries. One missionary we work with always reminds us before we leave, ‘Don’t forget the peanuts.’”

Phyllis says many people take candy when they do short-term mission work in orphanages, but she feels better about giving the children peanuts.

“There’s no nutritional value in candy,” she says. “It feels good knowing you’re bringing them something nutritious.”

The Walters also open their home yearly to the Ugandan Thunder

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Children’s Choir, a choir made up of Ugandan children ages 8 to 13 who perform at churches throughout the Southeast to raise awareness and support for orphans in Uganda.

When members of the choir come to their home, Glen gives them tours of the farm, and Phyllis makes peanut butter Rice Krispie treats for everyone to enjoy.

“They grow some peanuts there, but it’s nothing like the amount here,” Glen says. “And the men traveling with them could not fathom running a farm with just me and one employee.” n

FarmingFeedsAlabama.com NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

CHICKEN PAD THAI WITH PEANUT BUTTER SAUCE Start to finish: 45 minutes Serves 4 8 ounces of rice noodles 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided ½ cup roasted peanuts 2 eggs 4 cloves garlic, minced ½ pound boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced 1 cup carrots, julienned 1 cup bean sprouts 4 scallions, thinly sliced for garnish ¼ cup cilantro, roughly chopped for garnish 2 limes, cut into wedges for garnish For sauce: ½ cup water ¼ cup light brown sugar ¼ tablespoon fresh lime juice ¼ cup creamy peanut butter 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 3 tablespoons soy sauce ¼ teaspoon Thai chili sauce or Sriracha sauce

Place noodles in a large bowl and pour enough boiling water over to cover. Allow to sit for 6 to 8 minutes and drain water from noodles.

Toss with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent the noodles from sticking together and set aside.

In a large nonstick skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the peanuts and fry for 30 seconds. Remove from pan and set aside. Roughly chop when cooled.

Crack eggs into pan and scramble until just slightly set. Remove from pan and set aside.

In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and add garlic and chicken. Stir until chicken is fully cooked, about 4 to 5 minutes.

Add eggs, carrots, bean sprouts, sauce (see recipe below) and noodles and toss to combine. Garnish with scallions, cilantro, peanuts, lime wedges and more chili sauce.

Sauce: Stir together all ingredients except chili sauce in a saucepot over medium heat. Stir frequently as mixture comes to a boil.

Remove from heat and stir in chili paste to taste. Adjust seasoning as desired.

NOVEMBER / WINTER 2014

PEANUT BUTTER GOOEY BARS Start to finish: 55 minutes (15 minutes active) Serves 16 1 cup chunky peanut butter ½ cup butter, melted 2 eggs 1 package yellow cake mix 6-ounce package semi-sweet chocolate chips 1-ounce can sweetened condensed milk

Preheat oven to 350 F. Combine peanut butter, butter, eggs and cake mix in a large mixing bowl and beat at medium speed for 2 minutes.

Press half of mixture onto the bottom of a lightly greased 8-by8-inch baking dish.

Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle with chocolate chips and pour on sweetened condensed milk. Top with remaining cake mixture.

Bake for 30 minutes; cool completely on wire rack. Cut into squares and serve.

MICROWAVE PEANUT BRITTLE Start to finish: 30 minutes Makes 1 ½ pounds 1 cup white sugar ½ cup light corn syrup 1 cup salted peanuts 1 teaspoon butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon baking soda

Butter a cookie sheet. Combine sugar and corn syrup in a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 4 minutes. Stir in peanuts and microwave on high 3 ½ minutes more; Stir in butter and vanilla and microwave for 1 ½ minutes.

Stir in baking soda until light and foamy. Pour onto cookie sheet and spread thin. Cool completely and break into pieces. n

PEANUT BUTTER RICE KRISPIE TREATS

By Phyllis Walters Start to finish: 15 minutes Serves 16 1 cup light corn syrup ½ cup granulated sugar ½ cup packed light brown sugar 1 ½ cup creamy peanut butter 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 4 cups crisp rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)

Line a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with wax paper or parchment paper.

Combine corn syrup and sugars in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir to combine.

Bring to a boil and remove from heat.

Stir in peanut butter and mix well. Quickly stir in vanilla and cereal. Spread into baking pan. Let cool completely and slice into squares.

Visit www.AlfaFarmers.org for more recipes. Recommend a favorite cook who is a member of the Alabama Farmers Federation by emailing AlabamaCountryKitchen@gmail.com.

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