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Photo By Maggie Edwards
Alabama Ag Hall of Honor Lauds Leaders
By Tanner Hood
Two farmers and an Extension trailblazer were inducted to the Alabama Agriculture Hall of Honor Feb. 28 in Auburn, while three industry leaders posthumously received Pioneer Awards.
The Auburn Agricultural Alumni Club hosted the annual awards program, which honors leaders for significant contributions to Alabama agriculture, said club Past President Brian Hardin.
“One of the great privileges of serving as president has been getting to know these men and their families while honoring their dedication to agriculture,” said Hardin, also the Alabama Farmers Federation’s External Affairs Department director. “These men have stood the test of time and are the face of resilience while having consistently found ways to support Alabama farmers.”
Cattle and poultry proponent Galen Grace was hailed in the agribusiness category. Soybean researcher Dr. John Henderson was honored for work
in education/government, while the production category award went to catfish farmer Bill Kyser.
Originally from Walker County, Grace spent most of his professional career in the poultry and animal health industry following graduation from Auburn University (AU). He served in leadership for the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Southeastern Livestock Exposition and more. Grace was the longtime, ringside voice of the Jr. Livestock Expo beef cattle show, a position he retired from in 2024.
Henderson’s childhood in Tallapoosa County led him to AU, where he received a bachelor’s in animal science and a master’s in soil and plant science. After working out of state, Henderson returned to Auburn as an Extension agronomist. As soybeans became popular in the late 1960s, Henderson assembled the Extension “Bean Team” to help farmers and county specialists face new challenges. Henderson was known for realistic practices backed by research and personal experience.
Kyser’s claim to catfish fame began in Hale County when his father built Alabama’s first commercial catfish ponds in 1967. Kyser’s interest drove him to AU, where he received the school’s first bachelor’s degree in fisheries and allied aquaculture. He returned to Greensboro, where Kyser Family Farms grew into a catfish industry leader with 750 acres of ponds and yearly production upward of 4 million pounds. Kyser previously served on the Federation state board and was 2014 Catfish Farmer of the Year. In addition, he has served on boards for the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Catfish Farmers of America and First South Farm Credit.
Additionally, farmer Glenn Forrester and horticulturalist father-son duo Sidney and Glenn Meadows were honored with Pioneer Awards.
After working in the agriculture industry for 20 years, AU graduate Forrester began working on his family’s Houston County farm in 1984. Forrester and his brothers diversified the farm into cattle, row crop, peanut, vegetable, catfish, sod and hay production. An Alabama Farm of Distinction, Forrester Farms is most known for its peanut seed production and distribution, which once served over 100 customers in six states.
A native of Louisiana and a World War II veteran, Sidney Meadows enjoyed an extraordinary 40-year career in the nursery industry. His accomplishments include growing Flowerwood Nursery to new heights, serving as president of the Alabama Nursery & Landscape Association, serving on Southern Nursery Association’s board and helping found the International Plant Propagators Society Southern Region of North America.
Glenn Meadows followed in his father’s footsteps, earning an agricultural education degree from AU and returning to Flowerwood Nursery. Glenn managed the nursery for 25 years, developing innovative systems for plant and weed control with improved harvesting and shipping techniques.
Galen Grace John Henderson
Bill Kyser
Glenn Forrester
Glenn Meadows
Sidney Meadows
Farmers Make Connections in the Capital Boots Down in DC:
By Tanner Hood
As federal lawmakers tackle tough decisions that impact the future of American agriculture, over 150 Alabama farmers spent March 4-7 in the shadow of Capitol Hill sharing their stories and concerns.
Alabama Farmers Federation members visited with legislators and agriculture industry leaders to discuss issues such as a new farm
bill with updated reference prices. Other conversations centered around taxes, labor, land development, input costs and young farmers during the Washington Legislative Conference. The biennial meeting began with encouraging messages from Farm Bureau presidents of Idaho, Mississippi and New York as Federation President Jimmy Parnell hosted a panel discussion.
“I don’t think any organization can
do what we can with the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) in all 50 states,” said Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation President Mike McCormick. “We can’t have these important conversations without grassroots efforts. I thank you for your involvement, for being part of your county boards and for what you do.”
Legislative meetings kicked off the next day as farmers visited with U.S. House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Glenn “G.T.” Thompson, R-Pa. He communicated the desire to pass a new farm bill this year — and the challenges that entails.
“We’re going to need your help with getting a new farm bill across the line,” Thompson said. “Farmers were initially written out of the end-of-theyear spending bill last year. By the time it passed, you were a priority only because y’all stood up and flexed the muscle of American agriculture. Do what y’all did in December, but all I ask you is to stay limber.”
Farmers also sat down with other lawmakers, staff members and ag industry leaders. Those included representatives from Auburn University,
From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Outstanding New Member of Congress honoree U.S. Sen. Katie Britt and AFBF President Zippy Duvall.
Federation State Young Farmers Committee Chair Denzil Dees snapped a photo of George Washington’s historic Mount Vernon home during an agriculture-based tour.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Production and Conservation, JBS America, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, AmericanHort, National Cotton Council and others.
Escambia County row crop farmers Jacob Scott and Gaylan Shelly said this trip let them share their stories firsthand with decision-makers.
“We’d love to see better prices so we can make our own money and not be in a bind like the last few years,” Shelly said. “We met with legislators who were very receptive, some who had their cost-estimates wrong, and some who didn’t like what we had to say. We’re grassroots, and we understand we need to speak up. This is the only for-sure way to get our voices heard.”
Scott echoed Shelly.
“We hope this new administration can get things going our way; if not, farming for myself won’t be around much longer,” Scott said. “It was good to hear what’s being done to build better trade agreements. There’s no way we would have been able to share our stories and issues directly with legislators and industry professionals without coming on this trip. We’re blessed to have this opportunity to promote Alabama agriculture.”
Wednesday night ended with a congressional barbecue featuring Colbert County’s Bishop’s BBQ and Priester’s Pecans from Lowndes County. Alabama Republican U.S. Sens. Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt stopped by to visit with farmers for photos, food and
Federation leaders explored issues like the need for a new farm bill with U.S. House Ag Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson, R-Pa.
fellowship. During the dinner, Britt was honored as AFBF’s Outstanding New Member of Congress.
Farmers were back at it Thursday for breakfast meetings with their U.S. representatives before attending additional small group gatherings. The day closed with a tour of George Washington’s Mount Vernon, which highlighted the agriculture lifestyle of America’s first president.
Before heading back to their Cullman County farm, Ben and Whitney Haynes reflected on the importance of the conference and letting their voices be heard.
“The things that affect Alabama farmers are not that dissimilar from Kansas or Mississippi or Arkansas farmers,” Ben said. “The fact that we have friends in all those states makes
me feel good about our chances of getting things done and making a real positive impact for farmers not just in Alabama but all over the country.”
Whitney agreed.
“We read that George Washington said he was called to be a statesman, but in his heart, he was a farmer,” Whitney said. “That’s something that is engrained with a lot of men and women in our group, and I hope that’s something we can pass on to our children. I hope they can come to D.C. and continue the fight for farming.”
Learn more about farmers’ work in Washington, D.C.
Cullman County farmer Ben Haynes greeted U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., during the congressional barbecue.
Morgan County’s Forrest Anders, left, and Bradley Hopkins, right, discussed ag issues with U.S. Rep. Dale Strong, R-Ala., in his D.C. office.
Alabama Farmers Federation members enjoyed breakfast meetings with their congressional leaders during the Washington Legislative Conference. From left are Escambia County farmers Jacob Scott and Jason Weber; U.S. Rep. Barry Moore, R-Ala.; and Escambia County farmers Gaylan Shelly and Drew Shelly.
Beef Processor Opens for Business in Atmore
By Marlee Jackson
With 23,000 square feet of floor space that includes a state-ofthe-art harvesting facility and retail storefront, a new beef processor is open for business in Atmore.
Perdido River Meats spells good news for the state’s farmers, said Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries Rick Pate.
“Facilities like this are going to pay dividends,” Pate said to hundreds of guests who gathered for the ribboncutting ceremony Feb. 6. “We are all in with you. We’re so thrilled to have this here.”
Located just off I-65, Perdido River Meats is a division of Perdido River Farms, the agricultural arm of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.
The plant can currently process around 50 head of beef cattle a week, sourced from Perdido River Farms and other local farmers. Custom processing is available, as are individual cuts in the retail storefront.
The facility plans to increase capacity while expanding into hog harvest, said Perdido River Farms Director John English. All products are inspected by
the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The facility was a dream years in the making, said English. Plans began more than six years ago.
“This grand opening marks a significant milestone for Perdido River Farms and the community,” English said. “We are proud to expand our operations and look forward to sharing our passion for quality, locally sourced meats with our neighbors and community.”
The plant capitalizes on the pastureto-plate movement that gained traction during COVID-19-related supply chain problems, Pate said.
“The opening of this new processing facility will not only help address food supply chain issues,” said Pate, “but also greatly benefit Alabama cattle producers, who have expressed the need for additional processing facilities in this area.”
The Perdido River Meats store is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., plus Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.
A long line stretched inside and outside its retail store when Perdido River Meats opened Feb. 6.
The Perdido River Meats retail store offers individual cuts of beef for customers.
Perdido River Meats officially opened for business following a ribbon-cutting ceremony Feb. 6. The Atmore meat processing facility and retail store is a division of Perdido River Farms, the agricultural arm of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.
Farm-Raised Catfish Stars in Student Culinary Contest
By Marlee Jackson
Dozens of high schoolers scurried around stainless-steel prep stations Feb. 7-8 slicing, seasoning and sautéing U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish — a lean, clean, new-to-them protein that was the star ingredient in Alabama FCCLA’s state culinary arts competition.
State Adviser Theresa Long said this year’s menu was chosen to connect Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) teachers and students to Alabama-grown products. Alabama Catfish Checkoff provided catfish for the contest.
“I want our teachers and students to interact with real products grown by real people in our state,” Long said. “Many of these students had never prepared catfish until they began practicing for the state contest, but now, they’re familiar with the product and will hopefully choose to cook it again.”
Winner Winner, Catfish Dinner
During the two-day event at Jefferson State Community College, young chefs prepared blackened catfish, slaw, a starch and a sauce during the timed contest.
Students’ preparation earned high praise from the panel of expert judges. In addition to taste and presentation, students were graded on food safety, organization and cleanliness.
The culinary arts STAR (Students Taking Action with Recognition) event is just one of FCCLA’s myriad of contests whose winners were recognized during State FCCLA Convention in Montgomery March 7.
Emilee Carter of Davidson High School in Mobile earned top marks in the catfish-centric cooking contest and moves on to national competition this summer.
Pelham High School students Rilee Glass and Quinn Garner received second and third, respectively.
Pond to Plate
Months before students handled their first catfish fillet in teaching kitchens across the state, FCCLA advisers netted insight into fish farming. Several dozen teachers gathered on the banks of Kyser Farms’ catfish ponds in Hale County last fall to watch crews seine, or harvest, fish.
The inquisitive teachers-turnedstudents had a flurry of questions for the Kyser family, with many taking videos and snapping photos to share with their students.
Townsend Kyser said he appreciated the chance to educate teachers about his family’s industry. Alabama is the
second-largest catfish-producing state in the nation, with most ponds nestled in the fertile Black Belt Region of west Alabama.
“It’s great to promote agriculture, aquaculture and catfish all at once,” he said after the workshop. “Then, they can take that back to students who are generations removed from the farm so they can at least get a little idea of what we go through every day.”
Those teachers included Alex Areco, the Pelham High School culinary arts instructor. Areco said he was amazed to learn the ins and outs of catfish farming.
“I didn’t even know there were any (catfish farms) in Alabama, and I teach food for a living!” Areco said. “It makes it a lot more personal to know catfish comes from Alabama.”
The teacher-focused field trip wrapped up with a lunch of fried catfish, plus a blackened fish cooking demonstration by Stacey Little of the SouthernBite.com food blog.
The pond-to-plate workshop paid dividends for advisers and their young chefs, Long said.
“A lot of times when you talk about people eating catfish, it’s fried, but there are so many ways to prepare it,” she said. “Working with Alabama’s catfish farmers helped our teachers and students understand a major industry in Alabama while expanding their horizons on the many ways fish can be enjoyed. It was a win-win.”
Students from across Alabama prepared and plated delicious dishes featuring U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish as part of the statewide FCCLA culinary contest.
Food blogger Stacey Little of SouthernBite.com taught FCCLA advisers the best way to blacken catfish during a food demonstration last fall.
Last fall, FCCLA advisers videoed catfish harvest in Hale County. They shared those clips with culinary students as part of a pond-to-plate study.
AU Research Ripe for Alabama Blueberry Farmers
By Maggie Edwards
Two years ago, Jimmy Ferguson spent a March night fighting freezing temperatures on his Washington County blueberry farm with a propane-fueled wind machine. The towering fan pulls warmer air closer to the fruit, ideally protecting the fragile buds from frost.
That wasn’t enough to save his crop, but research from Auburn University’s (AU) Dr. Sushan Ru could prevent future disasters.
“Blueberries have been a major small fruit in Alabama with a long growing history,” said Ru, an assistant professor in AU’s Department of Horticulture. “The cultivars growers use are outdated. They need more breeding support — so that’s what we’re going to provide.”
When Ru arrived at AU in 2021, she began the land-grant university’s first blueberry breeding program with the goal to improve efficiency and breeding through genetic research.
Her first step was evaluating the state’s current options.
“We’ve worked on two proposals for different ecotypes, hoping to improve southern highbush and rabbiteye,” said Ru, who conducts research at the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station. “For southern highbush, the focus is frost and drought tolerance, plus disease resistance. Improving fruit quality and advancing maturity is key for rabbiteye.”
Alabama farmers need diverse cultivars to help avoid heavy crop loss, Ru said.
“In the last four years, blueberry farmers have suffered from frost and a market crash,” Ru said. “The data is there. If we don’t do anything, it’s not sustainable for the industry.”
Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) Executive Director Blake Thaxton said Ru’s discoveries have been positive. She’s also explored cultivars in Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and North Carolina.
“This research could drastically improve the quality of operations for Jimmy Ferguson and other farmers,”
Thaxton said. “Overhead frost protection is a big expense for small farmers. Introducing varieties that will maintain frost resistance could be a game changer.”
Ferguson agreed.
“My hope is new developments will help plants become harvest-ready by the first of May,” said Ferguson, an AFVGA board member. “That would help the plants mature faster and survive cold snaps better.”
Though it can take years for blueberry breeding research results to fully reach the surface, Ferguson and Ru are committed to seeking solutions.
“Our growers are the most important part of this effort because that’s who we are serving,” Ru said. “I was fortunate to establish a connection with Mr. Ferguson from the very beginning. I have received input, feedback and advice from him and other growers. Hearing farmers talk about the costs, equipment, cultivars, needs and challenges has shaped the direction of the breeding program.”
Auburn University’s Dr. Sushan Ru is leading the way for blueberry research in Alabama. Left: Ru presented her research to farmers during the Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association Annual Conference. Right: Through crossbreeding and other genetic research, Ru is seeking solutions for farmers who face frost, drought and disease in blueberries.
While Jimmy Ferguson currently uses propanefueled wind machines to protect blueberry plants from frost, research by Dr. Sushan Ru could provide a more efficient solution via frost-tolerant blueberries.
Taste of Alabama Brings Federation Grassroots to Life
By Maggie Edwards
The Alabama Farmers Federation’s grassroots efforts thrived during the organization’s annual Taste of Alabama legislative reception Feb. 19 in Montgomery.
Nearly 200 legislators, elected officials and farmer-leaders gathered for Alabama-grown food, fellowship and one-on-one conversations about issues facing Alabama agriculture.
The intentional atmosphere stood out for farmers like Randolph County’s Levi Noles.
“This event brings to life the fact that Alfa is a grassroots organization,” said Noles, an agriscience educator at Central High School of Clay County. “This shows farmers that they have a voice and can bring issues to a level where it becomes a matter that gets addressed.”
As the Federation State Wildlife Committee chair, Noles’ role was serving quail and biscuits to lawmakers during the event. He worked alongside two of his FFA chapter officers.
It was eye-opening for Aiden and Bence Upchurch, Noles said.
“It showed them farmers have a place to share issues that are near to them,” Noles said. “The Upchurch brothers are being raised on a farm. This allowed them to see that people at the legislative level resonate with us.”
Sen. Josh Carnley, R-Ino, agreed.
“I like to talk farming,” said Carnley, who grew up on a row crop, cattle and poultry farm in Coffee County. “Working on the farm made me who I am. I have a special place in my heart for the ag industry and for the young people who are coming into it. We have to encourage young people and give an incentive to come back to farm.”
For Carnley, it’s all about working closely with constituents and understanding their personal experiences.
“Hearing it from the people who make up the industry is important to
lawmakers,” Carnley said. “This year, the Federation has a lot going on in the legislative session with Alfa Health Plans legislation.”
The need to authorize Alfa Health Plans was an important conversation among farmers and legislators such as Rep. Kerry “Bubba” Underwood, R-Tuscumbia.
“I came to listen,” Underwood said. “If my counties ask me to focus on certain things, then I do. I understand what Alfa is trying to do with Alfa Health Plans.”
Learning and listening was a common theme throughout the Taste of Alabama.
Rep. Pebblin Warren, D-Tuskegee, said the event is the best opportunity to talk directly with farmers. The reception’s focus on Alabama home cooking was refreshing, she said.
“Speaking with farmers first-hand helps us get it straight, so if we had to get on the floor and talk about the industry, we could,” Warren said. “If we don’t have our farmers, we don’t have anything.”
In addition to legislators, the Federation welcomed Gov. Kay Ivey and other constitutional officers, as well as Alabama Supreme Court justices, appellate judges and members of the Alabama State Board of Education and Public Service Commission.
This year’s menu included heirloom corn grits from Bayou Cora Farms, Baldwin County; pulled pork from Bishop’s BBQ, Colbert County; hanger steak from Perdido River Meats, Escambia County; U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish from Consolidated Catfish, Greene County; grilled peanut butter and jelly sandwiches from the Alabama Peanut Producers Association, Houston County; pecans from Priester’s Pecans, Lowndes County; honey from Choctaw Bee Co., Geneva County; ice cream from Blue Bell Creameries, Talladega County; and quail and biscuits from Federation State Wildlife Committee member Bob Plaster, Lee County.
Levi Noles served quail alongside FFA students.
Rep. Pebblin Warren and her husband, David
Chris Carroll and Sen. Josh Carnley
Rep. Bubba Underwood and Luther Bishop
Mark Byrd and Gov. Kay Ivey
Farmer-Preacher: Lavender Answers Call to Ministry
Tuscaloosa County’s Jim and Debbie Lavender raise cattle in Moundville with their son. After selling the family’s Riverside Feed & Seed business, Lavender began his new career in ministry.
By Maggie Edwards
It’s never too late to answer God’s call to ministry.
Just ask Tuscaloosa County’s Jim Lavender. The 58-year-old cattle farmer and retired agricultural-business owner began his preaching career at 53.
“Sharing faith and leading others to faith shaped my life,” said Lavender, who was raised attending Moundville Methodist Church. “Looking back, I see the Lord was preparing me for this through my life experiences. I have served in leadership roles at my own church as a lay leader and lay speaker.”
Lavender enrolled at Wesley Biblical Seminary in 2024 and is working to become an ordained minister. Meanwhile, he’s seeking wisdom from the Good Book to share on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights at Pondville Methodist Church and Brent Methodist Church.
His late-in-life journey to the pulpit is proof the Lord never stops working in someone’s life, Lavender said. It’s reminiscent of some heroes of the faith, he added.
“Moses was 80 when he went before Pharaoh, and Abraham was in his 70s when he started heading toward the Promised Land,” Lavender said. “If I had done this in my 20s, it wouldn’t have been the right thing. I can connect to my congregation because of the things I have lived through.”
Relationships are key for Lavender, who enjoys bonding with others through shared faith.
“We’re called to gather together,” Lavender said. “I minister to people in good and bad times.”
Alabama Farmers Federation Area 6 Organization Director Mac Higginbotham said it’s fitting to see Lavender pursue a new career proclaiming the Good News.
“Preaching has a similar mission to the Federation,” Higginbotham said. “People in the agricultural community get their strength through relationships.
and farming — much like Jim’s approach to ministry.”
Agricultural roots run deep for Lavender, too. He grew up on his family’s sixth-generation farm, which has included poultry, cotton and cattle over the years.
“Farming is in my blood,” said Lavender, a member of the Federation State Beef Committee and Tuscaloosa County Farmers Federation board. “Growing up, it was all I ever dreamed about. I’ve learned farmers must put themselves at the mercy of the Lord with weather and commodity prices. You’ve got to have a lot of faith.”
Combining farming and preaching is important for Lavender.
“I use my ag background in sermon illustrations,” he said. “There are a lot of things in the Bible that relate. The past few months, I have seen baby calves being born on the farm. That’s life coming into the world. There’s no way someone can watch that and not believe there is a divine creator.”
Farm Connections
Bigger at the Beach: AFVGA Conference Boasts Insightful Workshops, Trade Show
By Maggie Edwards
Bigger at the Beach was the overarching theme of the Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) Annual Conference Feb. 5-7.
It was also the motivation behind increasing the trade show space to allow
Education Innovations
farmers like Chad and Esther Smith to engage with even more exhibitors. Those relationships will bear fruit at their Smith Tomato Farm in St. Clair County, Chad said.
“It takes a great group of people around your farm to be successful,” said Chad, a new member of AFVGA’s board.
“The folks who supply us products are on our team, too. One great thing about coming to this conference is meeting new people, like vendors and other farmers. You solve each other’s problems together as a team.”
The growing conference expanded its networking opportunities as 41 vendors and almost 300 attendees gathered in Gulf Shores.
It’s special to be part of that growth, Esther said.
“The trade show layout gives exhibitors a chance to have one-on-one interactions with producers,” Esther said. “Farmers are looking for the next best thing. If we are sitting at home during an event like this, then we aren’t growing, and we aren’t learning. The association has gone above everyone’s expectations.”
Lawrence County’s Larry LouAllen said he’s proud of AFVGA’s evolution.
“I remember when the conference brought in about two dozen people,” said LouAllen, an AFVGA board member. “Opportunities for specialty crops in Alabama are at a peak. If we continue to pull together, we will see great things happening.”
Educational sessions are key for AFVGA’s conference. During the event, participants heard about topics that ranged from strawberry plug production and freeze protection to social media marketing and sales tax exemptions.
A new addition was Farm Market Speed Networking sponsored by Sweet Grown Alabama. The workshop
Clockwise from top left: Randolph County’s Bran and Karla Futral brainstormed their farm’s social media marketing plan during an educational session; Former AFVGA Vice President Larry LouAllen reflected on the association’s growth; Dr. Susan Fant Cassity joined the conference to help farmers develop plans for social media. During an educational panel, farmers spoke on the importance of utilizing social platforms and shared their approach. From left are Cassity, Blount County’s Destiny Gladden, Cleburne County’s Julia McLeod and Morgan County’s David Reeves.
Tours Conversations Partnerships
Awards
allowed farmers to visit with farm-market owners and plant the seed for fruitful relationships.
“It was a unique opportunity for small-scale and wholesale farmers to meet new businesses and expand their markets to different parts of the state,” said Sweet Grown Alabama Director Ellie Watson. “It’s about helping farmers get higher prices for their products and selling them at a premium at locations that have established a rapport with consumers.”
The family friendly luau allowed for casual networking and a chance to support the Jimmy Witt Memorial Scholarship fund. This year’s fundraiser raised over $3,000 to support students pursuing degrees in horticulture.
The 2024 scholarship recipient, Lee County’s Nate Payne, provided the devotion during the AFVGA business meeting, while two outstanding individuals were honored for service to the industry.
Morgan County’s Mike Reeves of Reeves’ Peach Farm received the Exceptional Achievement Award. During Reeves’ time with Alabama Extension, he supported countless farmers with resources and guidance. He’s also a
founding member of AFVGA.
“The award coming from this group means more to me than anything,” Reeves said. “The achievement to me is getting my farm to where it’s an option for my children to continue operating the land and being successful.”
The Partner of the Year Award was presented to Mel Wade, an outside salesman for the Blount County Farmers Cooperative.
“Whether delivering products to the farm, taking soil and water samples, or offering advice, Mel approaches every task with a passion for helping customers meet the challenges of fruit and vegetable production,” said AFVGA Executive Director Blake Thaxton.
More conference highlights included an informational farmer-panel; farm tours to Fish River Trees and McKenzie Farms; and the farmer-favorite variety trial showcase.
The 2026 conference will be Feb. 4-6 in Gulf Shores. AFVGA is an affiliate of the Alabama Farmers Federation.
Hear a recap on the Alabama AgCast!
From left are AFVGA Executive Director Blake Thaxton, Jimmy Witt Memorial Scholarship recipient Nate Payne of Lee County and AFVGA President Taylor Hatchett of Chilton County.
From left are AFVGA Executive Director Blake Thaxton, AFVGA Exceptional Achievement Award recipient Mike Reeves of Morgan County and AFVGA President Taylor Hatchett of Chilton County.
From left are AFVGA Executive Director Blake Thaxton, AFVGA Partner of the Year Award recipient Mel Wade of Blount County and AFVGA President Taylor Hatchett of Chilton County.
Above left: Bejo Seeds sponsored the trade show for the third year. Above right: Sweet Grown Alabama Director Ellie Watson and Assistant Director Aisling Walding networked with farmers and industry professionals. Sweet Grown Alabama was one of 41 vendors at the trade show.
By Marlee Jackson
Tucked off I-565 and nestled in the historic town of Mooresville, vibrant flowers burst from the soil, blanket the ground and stretch skyward at 1818 Farms.
“I love flowers,” said farm owner Natasha McCrary as she clipped blooms on a scorching day last fall. “Yesterday, I delivered subscription bouquets. You realize, once you drop those bouquets off, just how happy flowers can make people.”
1818 Farms Delivers Delightful Flower Power
of urban customers for its floral subscription service.
The farm offers shelf-stable, specialty floral products, too. McCrary’s team transforms flowers and greenery into dried art, first picking plants at peak freshness. They’re then transferred to a pitch-black drying room. Those preserved flowers are crafted into bouquets; mounted to wood and wire frames during floral workshops; sprinkled into sweet-smelling wax sachets; and suspended in resin.
They’re also featured in McCrary’s Where I Bloom series.
creme, soap, room spray, farm-grown loofahs and more.
Eco-printed scarves are a hit, too. Pigment extracted from deciduous leaves is then overlaid onto lightweight silk. Each scarf is a one-of-a-kind, wearable work of art, McCrary said.
More and more, though, customers are flocking to Where I Bloom products — drawn in by bright colors and a wave of memories.
McCrary founded 1818 Farms a decade ago, the farm’s name paying homage to the year Mooresville (population 58) was founded. Its lamb-laden logo depicts the McCrary family’s first crop.
Fluffy babydoll sheep still munch the 3-acre farm’s bright green grass, though flowers now power most of the farm’s products.
Those include hand-picked, seasonal flower bouquets. Summer sprays combine favorites like vivid zinnias, velvety celosia, round dahlias, spiky amaranth and seeded eucalyptus. Delicate ranunculus and anemone take center stage as temperatures dip in the fall and winter.
“We play with textures and colors,” McCrary said. “You have to think about all the elements you need in the bouquets for them to be beautiful and balanced.”
1818 Farms’ location near Huntsville in Madison County draws an influx
Over the last several years, the artisan carefully spliced and overlayed flowers to create the shapes of all 50 states. Those unique, flower-filled figures are now featured on flour-sack towels, notecards, coasters, stickers and large-scale, frame-worthy prints.
McCrary said Where I Bloom has been popular across the country, thanks in part to 1818 Farms’ status as an excursion when American Cruise Lines ships dock in nearby Decatur.
Inside the farm store, visitors find McCrary’s vast collection of shea
Natasha McCrary’s popular Where I Bloom series uses Alabama-grown flowers to create art depicting all 50 states. Where I Bloom products include stickers, posters, tea towels and more.
“Where I Bloom is less about where you’re born and more about what place makes you happy,” McCrary said. “Maybe it was where your grandparents lived or where you went to college. It can be many things to different people. It can show your state pride. These flowers aren’t native to anywhere, but anywhere can grow them.”
Alabama Farmer Advocates for Farm Bill
Coffee County farmer Garrett Moore
shared the plight of Alabama ag producers with lawmakers during a U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee meeting Feb. 5.
Speaking to the committee during a session titled “Perspectives From the Field: Farmer and Rancher Views on the Agricultural Economy,” Moore shared his testimony of the dire need for financial relief.
“On our farm alone, many of our expenses have almost doubled since 2018,” said Moore, the Coffee County Young Farmers Committee chairman. “Significant increase in fertilizer costs has caused tough management decisions, including forcing a decrease in our production levels. Due to extreme financial devastation in recent years, we have opted to forego repairs and replacements on equipment parts.”
Moore is a fourth-generation farmer and U.S. Marine Corps veteran who works with his father, Kevin, at Moore
Family Farms. The Moores raise peanuts, cotton, corn and cattle across 1,500 acres in the Wiregrass.
U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., recognizes Moore’s issues are not isolated to south Alabama. A member of the Senate Ag Committee, Tuberville is advocating to pass a new farm bill this year. The 2018 Farm Bill expired in September 2023 and has been extended twice.
“The state of the agriculture economy is in dire straits,” Tuberville said during the hearing. “Producers in my state of Alabama are producing bumper crops, but they can’t break even, much less make a profit, due to low commodity prices, high input costs, interest rates and inflation. Our farmers need a new farm bill.”
Moore said acting now to increase reference prices will help protect the industry for future generations.
“This testament to our farm economy clearly conveys why we are in dire need
of a new farm bill in 2025,” Moore said. “The importance of improving the farm economy cannot be understated for my family’s work as American farmers. I hope to continue my family’s farm for a fifth generation, which cannot be done without increased support for our industry. Just as I served my country, I look forward to working, serving and sacrificing for the farm families of our nation.”
Alabama farmer Garrett Moore, right, visited with U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., after testifying before Congress about the need for a new farm bill.
Pack Out Annual Conference
By Marlee Jackson
Alabama Young Farmers are energetic, enthusiastic and excited. Just ask the 450-plus who attended the 2025 Young Farmers Conference — the highest turnout since 2001.
Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell hailed the
State Young Farmers Committee for organizing the impressive, educational, fellowship-filled conference in Muscle Shoals Feb. 14-15.
“There’s nothing more important to me than growing this Young Farmers program,” said Parnell, a Chilton County farmer who chaired the State Young Farmers Committee in 1997. “I realize our future as an organization depends on y’all. My job is to help raise that next group to carry this organization into the future. There are people in this room who 50 years from now will still be having an impact on Alabama agriculture.”
During the welcome banquet, Parnell encouraged Young Farmers to build relationships with each other. He also rallied the farmers representing 54 counties to advocate for Alfa Health Plans legislation.
That night, Young Farmers sent more than 240 emails to legislators asking for support of SB 84. The legislation would allow the Federation to offer members a health plan that could save them 30%-60% on monthly premiums.
State Young Farmers Committee Chair Denzil Dees said he hopes the conference lifted the spirits of peers working through a tough farm economy. The Sumter County catfish and cattle farmer noted the impact of fellowship
with each other, particularly during a special ‘90s Country Night celebration.
The energy carried over into Day 2, when packed buses departed for tours of impressive operations and industries in northwest Alabama.
Stops included Wilson Dam, Colbert County; Hardin Farms, Lawrence County; Red Land Cotton, Lawrence County; Spruell Farms, Lawrence County; Clemmons and Hamner Seed Inc., Lauderdale County; Ardent Mills, Morgan County; GreenPoint Ag, Morgan County; Reeves’ Peach Farm, Morgan County; and Weaver Meat Processing, Morgan County. A Muscle Shoals must-see — Fame Recording Studios — was a treat for one tour group.
Giggles and squeals from dozens of farm kids offered background noise during the conference, which was themed “Raised on Country.” That family friendly feel was reflected in a conference highlight — announcement of Outstanding Young Farm Family contest division winners. Those young farmers will serve ex-officio terms on state commodity committees and affiliated organization boards. They received $500 from the Federation.
They are Drew and Lauren Wendland, Autauga County, Hay &
Top: Young Farmers toured Spruell Farms in Lawrence County during a packed-out conference in February. Above: State Young Farmers Committee Chair Denzil Dees of Sumter County welcomed more than 450 Young Farmers to Muscle Shoals.
Clockwise from right: Henry County Young Farmers Committee Chair Andrew Gamble, right, joined over 100 fellow farmers touring Weaver Meat Processing in Hartselle; State Young Farmers Committee member Cal Logan of Greene County helped with the live auction, which raised almost $28,000 for the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation; Young Farmers toured GreenPoint Ag’s fertilizer facility in Decatur; Red Land Cotton in Moulton hosted a group of Young Farmers interested in learning more about its Americangrown and -sewn process.
Forage; Cade and Shelby Easterling, Barbour County, Sheep & Goat; Christopher and Hannah Langley, Chambers County, Forestry; Jacob and Misty Porter, Clay County, Poultry; Tommy and Lauren Murray, Franklin County, Fruit & Vegetable; Heath Clary, Hale County, Catfish; Mitchell and Rebecca Henry, Lawrence County, Beef; and Garrett and Robin Dixon, Lee County, Peanut.
Judges named the Wendlands, Porters and Dixons Top 3 finalists. They received custom cedar chairs from the Best Adirondack Chair Co. and will compete for more than $80,000 in prizes during on-farm judging this summer. The winner will be announced during the Farm & Land Conference in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Aug. 16.
The perennial favorite live auction benefiting the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation concluded the conference. Young Farmers raised nearly $28,000 to benefit ag literacy projects, youth livestock shows, scholarships and more.
Above: Three finalists were named in the Outstanding Young Farm Family contest. From left are Drew and Lauren Wendland of Autauga County with their children, Mills, Smith and Rhett; Jacob and Misty Porter of Clay County with their children, Olen and Asher; and Garrett and Robin Dixon of Lee County with their children, Chandler Jane and Cash.
Controlling Early Season Cotton Pests is Imperative
By Katie Nichols
Weather, rainfall and pest pressures all significantly impact cotton growth and maturity. Scott Graham, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System entomologist with a focus on cotton, soybeans and peanuts, said it’s important to develop a plan early in the season to help mitigate risks.
Thrips
“Thrips are an obvious early season pest,” Graham said. “They are really the most consistent insect pest in cotton maybe even in row crops in general. When you look across the Cotton Belt, probably 100% of our cotton acreage has thrips infestations.”
A neonicotinoid insecticide seed treatment is the go-to control option. Growers can apply other foliar supplemental insecticides as needed.
“Generally, thrips injury is a function of how well your cotton crop is growing,” he said. “So, earlier in the planting window, when night temperatures are a little bit cooler, heavy thrips injury is more likely.”
Later in the planting window, cotton will grow faster, and pressure from thrips will lessen. Graham said evening temperatures are important. When it’s cooler at night — and the crops are
only growing at night the thrips can feed and cause heavy damage.
Grasshoppers
Graham said immature grasshoppers are also an uncertain pest.
“Some years, they’ll be in fields but won’t touch a cotton plant,” Graham said. “Other years, they’ll turn on the cotton and eat 10 to 15 acres in a short period. We never really know what grasshoppers are going to do until they’ve done it.”
Graham said producers should control immature grasshoppers while cotton is in the crook stage because of the need to establish a healthy stand. He also said farmers shouldn’t worry about defoliation. The more pressing issue is preventing grasshoppers from clipping plants and hurting the stand.
Critters: Snails and Slugs
Though snails and slugs aren’t insects, the critters can still wreak havoc for cotton farmers. Slugs are an issue following a grass crop, such as corn or sorghum.
“Snails are a problem that started in the southern part of the state but has made its way north,” Graham said. “Fields in Cherokee County had to be replanted from snail damage in 2020. Unfortunately, there is not a lot producers can do to get rid of snails and slugs. There are some marginally effective baits available, but the baits are expensive.”
Graham said light tillage
could help control the pests. Pushing residue off the furrow and making sure the furrow completely closes are both options to mitigate slug issues.
For more information on control for thrips and other early season cotton pests, listen to the Alabama Crops Report Podcast or visit aces.edu.
Curb Costs on Cotton Insect Control
Use a trained scout or consultant. Professionals who regularly monitor fields from emergence to “cutout” help farmers make informed treatment decisions.
Use economic thresholds. Established thresholds ensure insecticides provide the best return on investment — if they are followed.
Make timely applications when needed. Acting on insect reports prevents populations from reaching economically damaging levels.
Use the right insecticides at the right rates. Proper product selection and application ensures effective control, reduces losses and increases return on investment.
You can find soybeans grown in Alabama just about everywhere — your food, your food’s food, your fuel, asphalt, adhesives, motor oil, tires, paints, crayons and more. In fact, even this ad — and the whole magazine — is printed with soy ink. And as your Alabama Soybean Checkoff, we’re always on the job, researching and finding markets for your soybeans to keep this impressive list going on and on. Learn more about the story of soy at unitedsoybean.org/hopper. YOUR SOYBEANS ARE
OLD FOLKS
Lake Martin is calm. There aren’t many people here. Spring break is over. I am watching the still water, thinking about how much I’ve changed.
I’m older. I’m stiffer in the mornings. I don’t have the metabolism I used to. Used to, I could eat a Big Mac and finish the day like a hummingbird. Now I become akin to a gorilla hit with a tranquilizer dart.
Time seems to move faster, too. I don’t know why. When I was a 10-yearold, one day lasted a hundred years. At this age, a day is only a few minutes.
Life, my granddaddy used to say, is not unlike a roll of toilet paper; the closer you get to the end, the faster it goes. And oftentimes, the roll is finished long before you are.
Wisdom.
Sometimes I wish we could slow down the aging process, but the only way we could do that is to get Congress involved. And what would be the point?
Old age used to be coveted. Old age used to be a big deal. Sadly, it’s not cool to be old anymore. When was the last time you saw an elderly person in a car commercial?
My grandmother used to say old age is a privilege denied to many. She ought to have known. It was denied to her. She wasn’t 70 when she died. My aunt Irma was 77 when she went. She was tough. She buried three husbands, and two of them were just napping.
I bring all this up because I made a speech at an old folks home. Yes, I know you’re not supposed to call them that. They’re “assisted living facilities.”
But the old folks were calling it an “old folks home” because old folks don’t get worked up about political correctness the way my generation
does.
At the home, I sang a few songs and told a few humorous stories.
There was an elderly woman on the front row using a wheelchair. She kept asking if I was Benny. She kept shouting, “Benny! Benny! I have missed you!”
She was confused. I’m not Benny. Never have been. But she held my hand and kissed my cheek and said, “I love you, Benny. I miss you.”
Then she started crying. And we hugged for a little while.
Later, a nurse told me Benny died in a car accident 30 years ago. The old woman calls every younger man Benny. I met a guy named Bill, who had no teeth but claimed to know all the lyrics to “Boy Named Sue.” I had to take his word for it.
I met another old man. He was wearing a World War II ballcap, and they called him the “General,” even though he retired as a major. He was 99. I asked what it was like being elderly. I really wanted to know. My greatest ambition is to become an old man someday.
He said, “It’s like living with kindergarteners. You’re older than everyone and no one ever knows who or what you’re talking about. All your friends are gone. All your memories are alive. But you know what?
“Whenever I start missing my loved ones, whenever I get down; whenever I feel unsatisfied with my age, and find myself wanting to be young again, know what I do?
“What?”
“I just think of algebra.” Wisdom. ■
The Bu ing of Carpenter Bees zz
By Shane Harris
The buzz of carpenter bees is a sure sign spring is here. Best known for hanging around wooden structures, adult carpenter bees emerge in spring to forage and mate. They are good pollinators, often seen flitting around flowering plants to collect pollen. However, they can be a nuisance and damage wood as they excavate holes to lay eggs.
A male carpenter bee has a pale-yellow patch between its eyes. Males cannot sting but are territorial. They commonly hang around flowers and near wooden structures to chase females.
A female carpenter bee has a solid black head. They can sting but rarely do. Females are usually the ones damaging wood going in and out of the holes they bore while excavating tunnels to lay eggs. Females also spend a lot of time feeding on and pollinating flowers.
The presence of sawdust typically indicates activity. Inside the tunnel, five or six cells are constructed for housing individual eggs. Later in summer, new adult bees emerge and forage on flowers. These bees return to the wooden homes in fall for hibernation until next spring.
deltamethrin or lambda cyhalothrin can be applied directly to tunnel openings. Allow bees to come and go for a couple days before filling and sealing all new and old holes with wood putty, a dowel or cork. Swatting bees trying to make new holes with a fly swatter or tennis racket can be a fun control option.
A clear sign of a carpenter-bee infestation is the appearance of penny-sized, circular holes in exposed wood. Carpenter bees excavate in many species of dried, seasoned wood but seem to prefer softwoods, such as pine, fir, redwood and cedar. They can cause cosmetic damage to many wooden structures, preferring unpainted or well-weathered wood.
To prevent damage, treat all wood products with paint or varnish. If already present, treat holes with an insecticide in the evening when the bees are resting. Liquid, aerosol or dust insecticides containing ingredients such as carbaryl, boric acid, bifenthrin, cyfluthrin,
Trapping in wooden boxes with a penny-sized hole is another effective control route. The hole allows bees to enter and fall into a narrow-necked clear container connected to the bottom of the box. It’s hard to escape because bees tend to seek light rather than find their way back up and out.
There are no known products or insecticides that can be applied to protect cedar siding or other wood on houses from carpenter bees.
For more help with home and garden information, contact your local Extension office or visit aces.edu.
Shelley East is more than a nurse; she’s a nourisher. The school nurse at Sand Rock Middle School and nurse supervisor for Cherokee County School System, Shelley is known for whipping up tasty eats for her farm family, friends, coworkers and community members.
She and her high school sweetheart, Ben, have been married 26 years and have two children, Bryan and Lydia. Ben is the principal at Sand Rock School; Bryan works with Coosa River Land Co.; his wife, Haleigh, is a student at Jacksonville State University; and Lydia is majoring in agricultural communications at Auburn University.
Shelley chairs the Cherokee County Women’s Leadership Committee and serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation State Women’s Leadership Committee.
What are some of your favorite memories on the farm?
When Ben and I began dating, his dad, John Bert, was a row crop farmer and raised cattle in the Pollard Bend community. One of my fondest
memories was the day Ben asked if I wanted to come to the cotton field with all the family. It was a hot summer day when I arrived at his grandparents’ home and loaded up in the back of his grandfather’s truck. His grandmother stayed home and was already preparing lunch for all of us.
On the way out, I learned we were all going to pick weeds in the cotton field…by hand! The cotton was too large to spray, and this was before Roundup Ready cotton was available. I learned the East family wanted their cotton to grade high by removing the weeds, but most importantly, they took pride in the way they wanted their cotton to look — even if it meant doing hard things. I fell in love with farming and their work ethic. The strong family legacy from PawPaw and Mammy East has made us who we are today. This past fall after school and on the weekends, I began tagging cotton for my son’s farming company. By applying sticker tickets to each cotton round in the field and scanning the tickets through the Cherokee Gin and Cotton Co.’s technology app, each cotton round was tracked throughout the ginning process. Working in the field alongside my son — and sometimes with my father-in-law and husband while they picked cotton — was special.
Tell us about your work as a nurse.
I enjoy being around students and caring for them while trying to make a difference in their lives. Having worked many years in school nursing, I am now taking care of some children whose parents were also my students. It is an honor to watch them grow up and graduate from high school while promoting their health and emotional well-being.
When did you learn to cook?
I have been inspired by many amazing cooks and recipes shared by family, friends, church family and coworkers. Recipes are often a way to learn about a story, a person or a circumstance. Sometimes, I’m hesitant to try a new recipe without tasting it first considering the price of groceries, so I’m willing to sample everything when it is brought to a gathering. Ben is an amazing cook, and Lydia often spoiled us before she moved to Auburn by cooking meals for us before we would get home from work. Bryan would often show up in the kitchen wearing a shirt that stated, “I’m only here for the food.” No doubt, he would eat enough for several people! I enjoy our time together in the kitchen and our family tradition of having our meals at the kitchen table.
What role does food play in your life?
Food is a vital part of farm life. Hard work equals big appetites, and we often plan meals for large groups of people, especially during planting and harvest season. Balancing jobs can be tricky, but planning and preparation are keys to successfully satisfying appetites.
What are “birthday meals?”
At school, we have a luncheon each month to celebrate the staff who are having a birthday that month. We usually have a themed lunch to coordinate with the month and the season. A favorite request from my coworker, who is the girls’ basketball coach, is to bring chocolate lava cake. It always brings a smile to her face when I walk through the door with it.
It’s planting time! What do you like about spring on the farm?
Spring is a special time because it is associated with new beginnings. It reminds us of God’s faithfulness and is a time of beautiful transformation with all the vibrant colors beginning to appear. With the arrival of spring, temperatures rise, plants begin to grow, and animals start to move around more outside. We always enjoy spring as we watch farmers make sure all the equipment is ready to go and prepare the fields for planting.
This month’srecipes by Shelley East
Slow Cooker Lava Cake
Cake:
1 box chocolate cake mix 1 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil 3 eggs
Topping:
1 (3.9-ounce) box chocolate instant pudding and pie filling mix
2 cups cold milk
1 (11.5-ounce) bag milk chocolate chips
Spray 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In a large bowl, beat cake mix ingredients with a mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes. Pour into a slow cooker. In a medium bowl, beat pudding mix and milk with a whisk for about 2 minutes or until thick. Pour into the slow cooker over the cake batter mixture. Do not mix. Sprinkle all chocolate chips on top. Do not mix. Place lid on slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 3.5 hours or until cake is set around the edges but still soft in the center.
Slow Cooker Cube Steak
6 cube steaks
Salt Pepper
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can cream of celery soup
1 packet Lipton onion soup mix
1/2 soup can of water
Sprinkle cube steak with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, onion soup mix and water. Mix well. In a slow cooker, begin the layering process. First, place down half the cube steaks. Top with half the soup mixture. Repeat with remaining cube steaks and soup. Cook on low for 6 hours or until cube steaks are fork tender.
Mushroom Chicken Bake
3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 (6-ounce) boxes instant long grain and wild rice
1 cup milk
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 (4.5-ounce) jar sliced mushrooms
2 cans cream of mushroom soup
1 (16-ounce) bag grated mild cheddar cheese
Heat oven to 350 F. Boil chicken and shred; set aside. Cook rice as directed; set aside. In a medium bowl, mix flour and milk, then add mushrooms and mushroom soup to create a sauce; set aside. In a 9-inch-by-13-inch glass baking dish, spoon out layers of sauce, rice, chicken and grated cheese in that order. Do this twice. Bake 20 to 30 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Danish
2 (8-ounce) cans original crescent rolls
2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 sticks butter, softened (divided)
1 1/4 cups sugar (divided)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cinnamon
Heat oven to 350 F. Spray a 9-inch-by-13-inch glass dish with cooking spray. Unroll one can of crescent rolls in the bottom of the dish. Pinch seams together.
In a large bowl with an electric mixer, combine cream cheese and one stick of softened butter. Add 3/4 cup of sugar, plus vanilla. Mix well. Spread mixture on top of first layer of crescent rolls. Top with second can of crescent rolls, and pinch seams together.
Melt remaining 1/2 stick of butter in a small bowl, then add cinnamon and remaining 1/2 cup sugar. Mix well. Spread on top of crescent rolls. Bake 30 minutes or until crescent rolls are golden brown.
Recipe Note: To add variety, I sometimes add seasonal fruit (such as blueberries or strawberries) to the cream cheese mixture.
Alfredo
Baked Chicken
Chicken:
4 tablespoons cooking oil
1 egg
Italian breadcrumbs (enough to coat each chicken strip)
10 to 15 chicken breast tenderloin strips
2/3 teaspoon salt
1 (16-ounce) bag mozzarella cheese slices
Alfredo:
1 stick butter
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 (8-ounce) bag shredded Parmesan cheese
1 quart heavy whipping cream
1 (16-ounce) box fettuccine, cooked to package directions
In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high, heat oil. Whisk egg in a bowl. Place breadcrumbs on a plate. Dip each chicken strip in egg, then dip in breadcrumbs until completely covered. Place chicken in the hot skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle chicken with 1/3 teaspoon of salt. Cook chicken 4 minutes or until golden brown on the bottom, then carefully flip with a fork and sprinkle with remaining 1/3 teaspoon of salt. Cook 4 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and uniformly white in the middle when cut. Place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb grease. Then add chicken to bottom of a 9-inch-by-13-inch glass casserole dish. Cover with mozzarella cheese slices.
In a large nonstick skillet on medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté. Slowly add Parmesan cheese and heavy whipping cream. Stir constantly until mixture is smooth. Add more Parmesan cheese or cream to get desired thickness.
Heat oven to 400 F. Pour Alfredo sauce over the mozzarellacovered chicken tenders. Bake uncovered for 18 to 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Serve on top of fettuccine.
