Issuu

fall 2026 vol. 32, no. 2

GFB.ORG

A G R I C U LT U R E + L I F E S T Y L E

TIM LOWRIMORE FORESTRY ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT & CEO

FIELDSTONE HUNTING & PRESERVATION

FRESH FIXINS MACON BAGELS

GREEN GOLD GEORGIA’S OWN OLIVE OIL

Farm Bureau Members Receive a

$500

Exclusive Cash Reward

1,2

on an Eligible New1 Ford Truck or Ford Blue Advantage™ Certified Used2 Vehicle.

The Farm Bureau Exclusive Cash Reward1 is now compatible with AXZD-Plans.

Ford F-150®

Visit FordRecognizesU.com/FarmBureau today for complete offer details! 1 Available on the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2025/2026/2027MY Ford Maverick®, Ranger®, F-150, Super Duty® or F-150 Lightning®. Not available on any other Ford or Lincoln vehicles, or F-150 Raptor®, F-150 Raptor R™, Ranger Raptor or F-650® and F-750® Super Duty. Vehicle eligibility may change at any time. Available to U.S. residents only. Place a new retail order or take new retail delivery from an authorized Ford Dealer’s stock by 1/04/27. Limit of five purchases/ leases per household during the program offer (PGM# 32900). Offer subject to dealer participation. May not be used/combined with most other Ford private offers. See an authorized Ford Dealer or go to https://www.fordrecognizesu.com, for complete details and eligibility (PGM# 32900). 2 Available on the purchase of an eligible certified used 2021-2027MY Ford Blue Advantage Gold, EV (F-150 Lightning only), or Blue Certified, Ford Maverick, Ranger, F-150, Super Duty or F-150 Lightning with under 80,000 miles. Not available on any other Ford or Lincoln vehicles, or F-150 Raptor, F-150 Raptor R, Ranger Raptor or F-650 and F-750 Super Duty. Vehicle eligibility may change at any time. Available to U.S. residents only. This offer is not eligible for customers purchasing a vehicle in the state of Arkansas, Hawaii, Idaho, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas. Take delivery from an authorized Ford Dealer’s stock by 1/4/2027. Limit of five purchases per household during the program offer (PGM# 32902). Offer subject to dealer participation. May not be used/ combined with most other Ford private offers. See an authorized Ford Dealer or go to https://www.fordrecognizesu.com, for complete details and eligibility (PGM# 32902).

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C O N T Pumpkins | Banks County, Georgia

VIEW FROM THE FIELD

WHO GREW MY PIZZA?

06 10 12

PRESERVING TRADITION

FIELD REPORTER DIGS AG

21 22 24 26

FAIR CLAIM

Experience Certified Farm Markets this fall

Fieldstone Outdoors and Fieldstone Preserve keep sporting lifestyle alive

PRODUCTS WE LOVE

Flavors of fall afternoons in the South

TITAN OF TIMBER

Tim Lowrimore wants Georgians to make long-term investment in forestry

Get to know Damon Jones of Georgia Farm Bureau’s ‘Farm Monitor’

It’s time to start sourcing local for creative pizza toppings

Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance is the best safety net

GREEN GOLD

Georgia Olive Farms revives largely dormant Georgia crop

STRATEGY, PEOPLE, CULTURE Kenny Burgamy reflects on decadeslong broadcasting career

FRESH FIXINS

Bagel sandwich recipes from the owners of Macon Bagels

G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / f a ll 20 26

E N T S G E O R G I A FA R M B U R E A U Georgia Farm Bureau is the premier voice for agriculture in Georgia. We work earnestly to support a safe and abundant food supply that not only feeds Georgians, but the growing world as well. Georgia Neighbors Magazine is a nod to that genuine sentiment – it’s an opportunity to discover the people, the places and the impact of ag in our great state. Want to subscribe? Become a Georgia Farm Bureau member to receive Georgia Neighbors twice a year. Membership means supporting farmers and agriculture while having access to more than 300,000 discount offers. Visit gfb.ag/join. For content inquiries or comments, please contact Information/Public Relations Director Whitney Mooney at 478-474-0679, extension 5285, or email wsmooney@gfb.org.

A N N UA L M E ET I N G OF POLICYHOLDERS The annual meeting of the policyholders of the Georgia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company will be held on Thursday, March 25, 2027, starting at 8:30 a.m. at the Georgia Farm Bureau Building, 1620 Bass Road, Macon, Georgia, 31210.

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ON THE COVER Tim Lowrimore, President and CEO of the Georgia Forestry Association and Georgia Forestry Foundation, is pictured at Cherokee Plantation in Monroe County.

F O L L OW U S GFB.ORG

VIEW FROM THE FIELD Tom McCall, GFB President t’s been a fantastic summer. Like you, I have joined with my family in celebrating and appreciating the 250th birthday of our great country! Looking at the calendar, the weather will soon be turning cooler and Georgia farmers will soon be in full harvest season. What a great time of year to enjoy our beautiful state. This is also a good time for me to remind all of you who read this Neighbors publication that you have a wonderful opportunity to get out, experience and celebrate homegrown products from one of our Certified Farm Markets. (We simply call them CFMs.) As I often say, we’re growing everything from apples to zucchini in Georgia. More than one hundred Georgia Farm Bureau verified CFM locations from just about every part of the state are inviting you to come visit and enjoy an overabundance of remarkable commodities. Our hope is that you’ll make your way to one of these stops in your vicinity or take a road trip, like I sometimes do, to get a fried apple pie at Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge or pick up a few satsumas in

GFB President Tom McCall, his wife, Jane, and grandchildren, McCall Archer, Wilkes & Winn McCall.

November at Raisin’ Cane Country store near Valdosta. It’s always a fun experience, not to mention good, healthy food. It’s also a chance for you learn about where your food and fiber come from, create relationships with farmers, and support Georgia farms directly through your purchases. (While you’re venturing out to see these great destinations, please be careful and watch for the big farm equipment that can frequently be on the roads during harvest season.) If you’re not a member of Georgia Farm Bureau and are hearing about our CFM program for the first time, let me encourage you to join our membership organization. That’s an active way of supporting the thousands of Georgia producers who work hard every day to put safe food and supplies in local grocery stores and farm markets. Learn more by visiting gfb.ag/ passport-join or scan the QR code we’ve conveniently placed for you right here.

OFFICERS President & CEO TOM MCCALL, Elbert Co. 1st Vice President and South Georgia Vice President DANIEL JOHNSON, Pierce Co. North Georgia Vice President BERNARD SIMS, Catoosa Co. Middle Georgia Vice President RALPH CALDWELL, Heard Co. General Counsel DUKE GROOVER Chief Administrative Officer JEFFREY HARVEY Chief Financial Officer & Corporate Treasurer RACHEL MOSELY Corp. Secretary & Senior Counsel JEANNA FENNELL DIRECTORS FIRST DISTRICT: Bill Bryan, Chattooga Co.; Wesley Hall, Forsyth, Co.; SECOND DISTRICT: Gilbert Barrett, Habersham Co.; Russ Moon, Madison Co.; THIRD DISTRICT: Brad Marks, Newton Co.; Chad Carlton, Polk Co. FOURTH DISTRICT: Skeetter McCorkle, McDuffie Co.; Russ Wilburn, Barrow Co.; FIFTH DISTRICT: Leighton Cooley, Crawford Co.; Matt Bottoms, Pike Co.; SIXTH DISTRICT: James Malone, Laurens Co.; James Emory Tate, Jeff Davis Co.; SEVENTH DISTRICT: Gary Bell, Evans Co.; Ben Boyd, Screven Co.; EIGHTH DISTRICT: Scotty Raines, Turner Co.; Don Wood, Wilcox Co.; NINTH DISTRICT: Lucius Adkins, Baker Co.; Paul Shirah, Mitchell Co.; TENTH DISTRICT: David Lee, Bacon Co.; Lamar Vickers, Berrien Co. YOUNG FARMER CHAIRMAN: Garrett Hurley, Chattooga, Co. WOMEN’S COMMITTEE CHAIR: Romy Strickland, Spalding Co. GEORGIA NEIGHBORS Director: Whitney Mooney Art Director: Nicollette Boydstun Photographer: Logan Thomas Consulting Copy Editor and writer: Renee Corwine ADVERTISING POLICY All advertising accepted subject to publisher’s approval. Advertisers must assume liability for content of their advertising. Publisher maintains right to cancel advertising for non-payment or reader complaint about advertiser service or products. Publisher does not accept per-order, political or alcoholic beverage ads, nor does publisher prescreen or guarantee advertiser service or products. Publisher assumes no liability for products or services advertised in the Georgia Farm Bureau Neighbors. For advertising rates and information, contact Wendy McFarland at 334-652-9080 or mcfarlandadvantage@ gmail.com. Georgia Farm Bureau Neighbors was established in 1996. Copyright 2026 by the Georgia Farm Bureau Federation. Printed by Panaprint, Macon, Georgia.

G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / f a ll 20 26

Spirituality

Meets Artistry

“I never expected it to be so beautiful that it takes your breath away.”

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n a quaint village, nestled between rolling hills, lived a young woman with a deep appreciation for gemstones. Her grandmother gifted her a delicate cross pendant adorned with opals. The opals shimmered with a mesmerizing play of colors, reflecting hues of blues, greens, and fiery oranges. Her grandmother shared the legend of the opals, believed to bring hope, purity, and luck to those who wore them. Using this story as inspiration, Stauer brings you the Opal Spirit Cross Pendant. With over 2 total carats of Kyocera lab-created opals set in .925 sterling silver encased in yellow gold, this pendant is a radiant celebration of beauty and craftsmanship. Each opal captivates with a kaleidoscopic dance of fiery oranges blending into oceanic blues, streaked with flashes of vibrant green that seem to come alive with every movement. The shimmering opals are skillfully arranged to create an enchanting, otherworldly glow, embodying the spirit of hope and harmony. This breathtaking combination of color and craftsmanship is available as a limited availability of only

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PRESERVING TRADITION Clark Haddock shares his love for the sporting lifestyle through apparel and experiences

“I’m getting to watch people fall in love with the outdoors for the first time.”

lark Haddock grew up running around in the woods with his buddies in Bolingbroke. They’d ride bikes, climb trees, get dirty and not come home until dinner time. But that was more than 30 years ago, and times have changed. With the advent of technology, children are spending more time behind their smart-screens and less time outdoors. That’s something Haddock hopes he can change. As the owner of Fieldstone Outdoors and Fieldstone Preserve, Haddock is working to share his love for the sporting lifestyle with a whole new generation that may not have had the chance to experience it. “Nowadays kids can’t really do what I did as a kid. It felt safe then but it’s a different life now. Kids are less likely to enjoy the outdoors,” said the 46-year-old. “Through the Preserve, I hope we can give that experience to this generation.” Fieldstone Preserve, located in Dry Branch, has 240 acres that they manage, plus more than 1,000 acres that they lease out for sporting activities like hog hunting. The property has two big fishponds and offers opportunities for hunting quail, pheasant, duck, turkey and deer. “This business came from my love of hunting and the desire to give that opportunity to others. We’ve hosted hunts for kids from disadvantaged circumstances and have had the most fun seeing first-time hunters experience something that was part of life for me growing up,” he said. “I’m getting to watch people fall in love with the outdoors for the first time.” That includes the three children he shares with his wife, Sarah Haddock. “I want them to have the experience of fishing all day like I did,” he said. Along with the desire to share the outdoors with the next generation, Haddock also feels a responsibility to preserve the land for generations to come. 6

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“We safeguard our food supply, preserve rural ways of life and maintain a resilient, resource-rich state.”

“Everything can’t be a parking lot — we’re connected to the land. Land conservation is a direct investment in our state’s economy and livelihoods. Keeping private working lands in production — rather than losing them to urban sprawl — is critical for local communities. By supporting programs that help farmers, hunting preserves and foresters protect their land, we safeguard our food supply, preserve rural ways of life and maintain a resilient, resource-rich state,” he said. Some of the ways Fieldstone works to preserve their land includes relying on conservation and management practices such as prescribed burning, strategic timber management, food plots and supplemental forage, native plant restoration and water source management. While the preserve was founded in 2023, this isn’t Haddock’s only business venture that reflects his love for the sporting lifestyle. Fieldstone Outdoors is a high-quality apparel brand that includes shirts, hats, outerwear and gear all designed for people who love to hunt. Haddock got started in the custom-printing apparel business in 2004, and by 2019 he decided to create his own niche brand of apparel for outdoor enthusiasts. It has grown from being sold at 100 retailers to 1,500 retailers. Georgia Farm Bureau is one of the many corporate partners whose employees are outfitted with branded gear that looks good and protects against the weather. Through promoting the apparel brand at events and trade shows, Haddock has had the opportunity to meet many other likeminded sportsmen and bond over their shared childhood experiences. “I was having so many conversations with dads saying, ‘I love hunting but can’t get my kids to do it.’ That’s one of the reasons for creating the Preserve,” he said. “When I randomly meet someone with a Fieldston shirt on, I always chat with them. We quickly discover we are alike in that we have a common enjoyment of the outdoors. When two strangers start talking and have something in common, you connect instantly over things you love.” The natural partnership of the two businesses — and their clientele — reminds Haddock of why he started down this path in the first place.” “The Preserve has helped me come full circle to why I started this apparel business. I like hunting and being outdoors, and nothing makes me happier than when I can put a smile on someone’s face,” he said. G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / fa ll 2 02 6

Along with the idea of doing what you love, bringing joy to others is one of his core business values. “No matter what you’re selling, if you put a smile on someone’s face and treat them how you want to be treated, you’ll do good in business,” he said. “After being in business 22 years, that’s a big realization that every business should have. Make a good product and put a smile on someone’s face, that’s what we’re about.” These values are another way he connects with his customers, like Georgia Farm Bureau. “The same people that Farm Bureau works with are the same clients that come to the Preserve. Farm Bureau customers are our customers. We’re all in the same family with the same passions — timber, hunting, farming, ducks, deer, enjoying the outside and caring for the land.” Learn more about Fieldstone Preserve at fieldstonepreserve.com and explore Fieldstone Outdoors apparel at fieldstoneoutdoors.com. 9

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Skipper Family Farms Macon, GA 478.703.4230 skipperfamilyfarms.com

Hillside Orchard Farms Lakemont, GA 706.782.2776 hillsideorchard.com

APPLE FIG PEPPER JELLY Wisham Jellies Tifton, GA 229.392.3888 wishamjellies.com

PRODUCTS WE LOVE Fill your fall with tastes that bring back memories of Southern days spent enjoying the breeze from your front porch swing.

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CRACKED PEPPER BEEF SNACK STICK Stripling’s Cordele, GA 1.800.727.4058 striplings.com

HAND-PAINTED PEANUT ORNAMENT Artist Rhonda Griffin Adel, GA 229.507.0440 1808rhonda@gmail.com

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Throw Yourself a Bone Full tang stainless steel blade with natural bone handle —now ONLY $79!

he very best hunting knives possess a perfect balance of form and function. They’re carefully constructed from fine materials, but also have that little something extra to connect the owner with nature. If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship EXCLUSIVE with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for. The blade is full tang, meaning it doesn’t stop at the handle but Stauer® Pocket extends to the length of the grip for the ultimate in strength. The Binoculars blade is made from 420 surgical steel, famed for its sharpness and its -a $99 valueresistance to corrosion. with purchase of Huntsman Blade The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world. This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers. But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of What Stauer Clients $99 Stauer pocket binoculars and a Are Saying About genuine leather sheath FREE when Our Knives you purchase the Huntsman Blade. Your satisfaction is 100%  guaranteed. Feel the knife in your “This knife is beautiful!” hands, wear it on your hip, inspect — J., La Crescent, MN the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal,  send it back within 30 days for a “The feel of this knife complete refund of the item price. is unbelievable...this Limited Reserves. A deal like this is an incredibly fine won’t last long. We have only 1120 instrument.” Huntsman Blades for this ad only. — H., Arvada, CO Don’t let this beauty slip through your BONUS! Call today and fingers. Call today! you’ll also receive this

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TITAN OF TIMBER Tim Lowrimore wants Georgians to make long-term investment in forestry

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I always liked the outdoors, but I didn’t come from a farming community.

n a state known across the nation as a leading producer of peanuts and pecans, it may come as a surprise to learn Georgia is also the nation’s leader in forestry. In fact, 300 million trees are planted in Georgia each year. Championing the cause of forestry in Georgia is 51-year-old Tim Lowrimore, who has served as the president and CEO of the Georgia Forestry Association and the Georgia Forestry Foundation since October 2024. “The Georgia Forestry Association (GFA) is a membership organization that has been around since 1907. We are a leading advocate for landowners and forest-based businesses. We focus on immediate needs such as legislation, regulatory action and market issues that impact our community and our membership,” Lowrimore said. “The Georgia Forestry Foundation (GFF) is similar in mission but takes a longer-term view of how to create and promote healthy businesses and healthy forests in our state. It’s a non-profit that’s focused on education and research to create opportunities on the horizon.” After a lifetime career in forestry, Lowrimore is passionate about the work the organizations are doing in Georgia. However, he admits that when he was growing up in Macon, he really didn’t know much about it. “I always liked the outdoors, but I didn’t come from a farming community. My mom worked for the school system and my dad worked at a brick factory. When I entered college, I had my mind set on engineering,” he said. “I had a neighbor who was an entomologist and he told me about his career. I interned with him while attending what’s now Middle Georgia State University. That opportunity changed my path and drove me toward working in one of Georgia’s leading industries.” Lowrimore transferred to the University of Georgia in 1996 to major in forestry. He was the first one on his side of the family to graduate from college and soon went to work with the Georgia Forestry Commission. Early in his career, he also did policy and governmental affairs work for the GFA before pivoting to the private sector at forest industry-related companies including Rayonier, Davis-Garvin Agency and Interfor. In 2020, he was appointed by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp as the director of the Georgia Forestry Commission. G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / fa ll 2 02 6

“That’s where I thought I’d stay for the rest of my career, but this is one of those examples of how we don’t control our own destiny. I was there for four years and then my current job came open, and now I’ve been here for two years,” he said. “It’s interesting to think about how I started my career at the Georgia Forestry Commission and then had the opportunity to go back many years later and lead that organization. I’ve taken that same pathway back to GFA, where I’m now the president and CEO.” A career that’s been decades in the making, Lowrimore made a longterm investment in forestry, and now he wants Georgians to understand the importance of doing the same. Forestry in Georgia has a $59 billion economic impact. “I’m passionate about forestry and the resource it is for our state. It’s a critical part of the state’s infrastructure, and my job is to see it continue to be an important part of the fabric of our state going forward,” he said. Despite its importance, the industry isn’t without its challenges. Lingering damage from Hurricane Helene in 2024, recent mill closures in the traditional pulp and paper sector, and competition from other parts of the world are all having a negative impact. However, the good continues to outweigh the bad. “Our sawmill industry is well capitalized, and we are well equipped to make lumber in our state. We have an abundant and sustainable resource in trees, of which 22 million acres are privately owned. Those owners are motivated to ensure their forests remain healthy and viable and continue to provide economic and environmental benefits for years to come,” he said. Also in the plus column is the robust timber market, superb state and local leadership, solid industry infrastructure and a world-class port in Savannah. Lowrimore’s wish list for the next 10 years is to see a forest landowner community that continues to invest in forests. That, in turn, would mean the state continues to have a strong and diverse market for those landowners to sell their timber. “Timber is a long-term investment. But it is an investment, and with that comes risk. Right now, the risk feels real to people, but we’ve been through this before, and that strong market will come back. That’s where our mind is now with the Association and Foundation. We work to provide opportunities for market growth expansion for existing industries here and so that others want to come here,” he said. From his office in Forsyth, Lowrimore works to influence policy on state and national levels that will fuel his mission and prepare for a strong future. From interacting with stakeholders to meeting with members, he’s always looking for ways to improve short-term and long-term market conditions in Georgia. Living in Macon with his wife, Wendi, Lowrimore still enjoys all things outdoors like hunting and golf. “I’m at a happy place right now. I’m where I believe I need to be and where I want to be. If I can serve a decade here, I’d be honored that I can help our industry transition to where we will go over the next decade,” he said. As he looks forward, he can’t help but also look back at the progress the industry has made in how it is viewed by consumers and society. “It’s cool to see so many different stakeholders look at forestry differently than before. They see it as part of a solution to hard questions our country asks itself about sustainability, building materials 14

Timber is a long-term investment. But it is an investment, and with that comes risk.

and the types of products we use as consumers. I’m not having the same conversations I had 20 years ago. We’ve educated consumers enough that they realize forests are incredibly valuable resources that can be used for good, and be managed in a way that they can continue to provide environmental and social benefits,” he said. “I see folks looking at forests as potential solutions, and I hope that will give forest landowners and investors hope for what they’re doing on their properties.” Lowrimore also has hope that his own involvement in forestry will reap rewards down the road. He works daily to ensure the vision of the GFA and GFF ring true. “This role is aligned with where I’m at in this stage of my career. I’m passionate about the role our sector plays in our state from an environmental and economic standpoint. A decade here would give me the opportunity to help our industry move in the right direction and ensure it remains that way,” he said. “It’s like my own long-term investment.” G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / fa ll 2 02 6

NORTH GEORGIA APPLES

Ready for You at Farm Markets September Through December

FIELD REPORTER DIGS AG Q&A with Damon Jones

et to know Damon Jones, the reporter who’s been bringing viewers ag news for the last 15 years on Georgia Farm Bureau’s “Farm Monitor” television program.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN MEDIA? I grew up in Birmingham, Ala., and attended the University of Alabama. I was interested in sports and since I couldn’t play professionally, I thought I’d like to cover it. I studied broadcast news and worked at a student TV station for a few years before taking a job in Macon as sports director for the local Fox affiliate.

WHAT WAS YOUR PATH TO THE “FARM MONITOR”? While I enjoyed covering sports, I wanted a change. The job at Farm Bureau became available and I thought agriculture was a cool industry I didn’t know much about — but would like to know more about. Initially, with every story I did, I had to do massive research. I knew nothing about ag. I spent the first five or six years here building expertise and learning what it takes to report on agriculture in Georgia, and what it means to be a farmer.

WHAT WERE SOME IMPORTANT THINGS YOU LEARNED? There’s a lot of misinformation out there. If you go by how mainstream media portrays ag, you get a warped sense of what it is. Americans take for granted what farmers do for them. But with my job, I can explain why ag is important to people’s everyday lives and give our audience a reason to care. G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / fa ll 2 02 6

WITH MY JOB, I CAN EXPLAIN WHY AG IS IMPORTANT TO PEOPLE’S EVERYDAY LIVES. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB? I love the fact that I get to deal with so many people from all walks of life. One day I’m interviewing a 90-year-old farmer and the next day I’m interviewing Gov. Brian Kemp. It’s fascinating the different spectrum of people I get to interact with. It’s important to me that people know how much I enjoy what I do. Farmers are some of the best people I’ve dealt with professionally, and it’s an honor to be able to tell their stories and spread the word about how important agriculture is to Georgia.

WHO GREW MY PIZZA?

Georgia may be known for peaches and produce, but our makers and growers are creating a range of products ready to slide into your brick oven and pop out piping hot with flavor. Say goodbye to simple pepperoni because pizzas have gone gourmet. Source your meat, mushrooms, oil and more all from Georgia farms and get creative with those toppings! All cheeses are from Rosemary & Thyme Creamery.

BUFFALO CHICKEN Chicken White Oak Pastures 229.641.2081 Hot Sauce Hillside Orchard Farms 706.782.2776 Onions Warbington Farms 770.889.1515

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BALSALMIC MUSHROOM Shiitake Mushrooms Ellijay Mushrooms 678.570.6888 Spinach Leaves Country Gardens Farm 770.251.2673 Balsamic Bourbon Vinegar Woodpecker Trail Olive Farm 912.266.7577

SAUSAGE RICOTTA Hot Honey The Honey Shack 912.487.5001 Sausage Hunter Cattle Company 912.823.2333 Olive Oil Woodpecker Trail Olive Farm 912.266.7577

For the full recipes and more, visit gfb.ag/Neighbors. G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / fa ll 2 02 6

WE FARM.

YOU VOTE.

THEY LEAD.

The mission of the I Farm. I Vote. campaign is to ensure the voices of farmers and rural communities are heard and provide them with the legislative support they need to continue to feed and clothe our state and nation. Georgia is blessed with a wide variety of agriculture products, and we have local farmers to thank for that. Agriculture is Georgia’s largest economic sector and the lifeblood of rural communities, employing 1 in 7 Georgians, and supplying food and fiber for the nation. Those elected to govern impact all aspects of rural life and business, from taxes and environmental regulation to healthcare and education. The I Farm. I Vote. campaign aims to provide unbiased information so Georgians can make informed decisions and support leaders who promote Georgia farmers and Georgia-grown products.

Learn more at ifarmivotega.com.

FAIR CLAIM Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance is the best safety net

ervin Robertson and his wife, Beverly, were out of town when disaster struck. They got a call that their neighbor had been cutting down a tree, and it had fallen on their house in Douglas. The damage was severe. Instead of panicking, Robertson called Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance. “The tree broke the roof and fell into the house. It was a big pine tree and did a lot of damage,” said Robertson. “I called Farm Bureau and they did a great job assisting me in getting everything done.” Claims adjuster Gordon Barnes, a GFB employee for more than 25 years, helped Robertson through the process, which began with documenting the damage. Barnes said it’s very important to take photos G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / fa ll 2 02 6

of everything from the initial damage to the final clean-up and everything else along the way. “With any claim, be sure to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Then preserve and document the evidence,” he said. You can notify GFB Insurance of a potential claim in several ways: Call the Claims Resource Center at (855) 432-2567. Submit the claim online at www. gfbinsurance.com. Contact your local agent or agent’s office. Once the claim is filed, the assigned adjuster is normally in contact within 24 hours. Some claims are simple and are resolved in just a few days. Some

can take months, or even years. In Robertson’s case, it took over nine months for the claim to be fully resolved, with Barnes delivering to Robertson a deductible refund check after a full subrogation recovery was received from the neighbor’s insurance company. “My family has used Farm Bureau Insurance for years and we’re so glad we have them. Even though it was bad circumstances, our experience with them was pleasant,” Robertson said. For Barnes, cases like these are the reason he loves his job. “My favorite part of my job is helping others through a rough period in their lives,” he said. “I do my best to make their experience a positive one and to let them know they are being treated fairly throughout the process.” 21

Green Gold Georgia Olive Farms revives largely dormant Georgia crop

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hen you think about Georgia crops, olives certainly aren’t the first to come to mind. However, this fruit has been quietly growing in Georgia since Spanish missionaries brought olive trees to Savannah in the late 1500s. When the Civil War forced many olive farmers to uproot their trees in favor of cash crops like cotton and tobacco, the industry died out. It stayed that way until 2009 when the Shaw family of Lakeland decided they wanted to bring a specialty crop back to Georgia, one that hadn’t been around in a long time. So, they transformed part of their farmland to olive groves. Two years later, in 2011, Georgia Olive Farms harvested their first commercial crop of olives from their groves in Southern Georgia. In 2019, the operation was sold to Swiss agronomist Aurelien Rifaut, who has expanded business to 55 acres of trees that produce 4,500 gallons of extra-virgin olive oil each year. The whole operation is run by a small but dedicated staff of three Georgians. Farm manager Carol Drew handles everything from managing accounts and office tasks to installing hydraulic lines and catching snakes. She shared that their farm grows three varietals, led by the Spanish Arbequina, which grows best in Georgia’s climate. The three varietals are blended when creating olive oil. “The trees take three years to mature and produce fruit. We harvest once a year in the fall, and depending on the climate that year, per acre we can harvest as many as six tons — or none at all. Olives really are a finicky, unappreciative fruit,” she said with a laugh. Georgia Olive Farms uses a self-propelled Oxbo harvester, which is designed for super high-density orchards. The trees are trimmed after harvesting to maintain their health, their height and to ensure a crop next year as olive trees only produce fruit on new growth. “We purchased a mill from Florence, Italy, and the entire milling cycle from harvest to final product is done in less than 24 hours. That earns us the label, ‘extravirgin,’ which is the gold standard for olive oil,” Drew said. The one-hour milling cycle includes a sort and wash, followed by a trip through the grinder where the entire fruit is pulverized — even the pit. It’s then processed through horizontal and vertical centrifuges to separate the oil. Because no heat is used to extract the oil, it is called cold-pressed, which is the worldwide preferred method. “Our business has done really well. The more people learn about olive oil, the more they realize its health benefits. This is a product you don’t want to skimp on. The industry isn’t regulated super well, so some brands may be selling olive oil that’s blended with other types of oil,” Drew said. “Our goal is a 100-percent pure product. We don’t cut corners and there are no additives or fillers of any kind.” Drew said she enjoys telling customers about their farm, and she gets a lot of calls from people who are surprised to learn about such a successful olive oil business in Georgia. And while the business continues to grow in sales, they are content to remain a small producer. “When people call, one of the three of us answers the phone. We try to keep it small and humble. We would love to grow, but we are a niche product. We are not the cheapest, but people see value in it and we have a lot of repeat business,” she said. “We have a wonderful owner, who gives us the freedom to not be stuck behind a desk. If the grandkids want to come and spend the day with us, we can work outside together. Something about farming is very grounding and very peaceful. This is good, hard work. You take a break, sit down, look at the crops in the field and take in what you’ve done for the day. This is the job that everyone should have.” Georgia Olive Farms oil can be found in retailers throughout Georgia, and purchased directly on their website, GeorgiaOliveFarms.com. G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / fa ll 2 02 6

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hen Kenny Burgamy joined Georgia Farm Bureau’s (GFB) Information and Public Relations Department in 2014, he saw a need for an opportunity to form a viable in-house marketing team. “Thanks to its 89 years of advocacy for agriculture, plus superb insurance products and services many Georgians depend on, the organization has deep roots in almost every county in the state. It was my goal to find avenues to strategically start building on the strength of an established brand,” Burgamy said. After pitching the idea of building a creative group within the department, it came as a surprise to Burgamy when then-GFB President Gerald Long asked him to not only assemble the talent and manage the team, but to later lead the entire department as its director. “I was honored that President Long had the trust in me to grow the brand, set the standards, and direct the future of the GFB marketing efforts,” Burgamy said. “Current President Tom McCall has embraced that momentum the PR team created and understands the unique challenges that face our organization in serving insurance customers and educating consumers about the trials farmers endure.” Before entering the world of ag communications, Burgamy found success with a 34-year radio broadcast career in Macon, honing his skills both on air and serving as a program director, news manager and director of operations. He worked as the station’s brand manager and hosted a popular radio morning talk show for more than 10 years. He transitioned to television when he took on the early morning anchor slot on WMAZ in Macon. Burgamy recently announced his plans to retire after nearly 13 years at GFB. “I’ve truly enjoyed leading the Information and Public Relations Department, an accomplished crew of professionals who ensure the clarity and integrity of the brand every day while fulfilling the mission of being the champion of Georgia farmers,” Burgamy said. “God has blessed me and placed me in unique situations through my journey in broadcasting, communications and public relations. I’m going to miss these friends and the team effort in pushing the mission of Georgia Farm Bureau.” As the INFO/PR director, Burgamy has come to deeply understand the importance of what agriculture means to all of us through food safety and security, plus the significance of what producers provide for consumers every day. “Being able to retire after a satisfying career in broadcast communications, it is rewarding to know that I have helped consumers understand and appreciate the vital relationships that exists between ag and every Georgia community,” Burgamy said. G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / fa ll 2 02 6

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FRESH FIXINS

CREATED BY LAUREN BONE & PATRICK RADEMAKER With help from our Certified Farm Markets, level up your breakfast game with these recipes from the owners of Macon Bagels, a favorite breakfast spot that opened in 2021 in downtown Macon. The Champ Sandwich is one of their most popular sandwiches, and they make all their schmears in house. Caramelized Onion Cream Cheese is a universal favorite!

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For the full recipes and more, visit gfb.ag/Neighbors.

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THE CHAMP SANDWICH 2

strips thick-cut bacon

bagel of your choice, preferably from a local bagel shop

tablespoons Caramelized Onion Cream Cheese

avocado, mashed

slices tomato Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook bacon to desired crispiness. Slice and toast (or don’t toast) the bagel. Schmear a generous amount of Caramelized Onion Cream Cheese on each half of the bagel. Spread mashed avocado on one side of the bagel, add salt and pepper. On the other half of the bagel, arrange tomato slices and bacon strips. Put the two bagel halves together and enjoy as a sandwich!

MACON BAGELS HOUSE HOT SAUCE 1

pound fresh jalapenos, stemmed and cut in half*

large Vidalia onion, peeled and cut into 8 pieces

cloves garlic, peeled

cups water

cups distilled white vinegar

grams kosher salt

Place all ingredients in a medium saucepan. The liquid should almost cover the produce in the pan. Allow ingredients to cook over medium heat, until onions have softened slightly (about 20 minutes). Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. For best results, let this mixture cool in the refrigerator overnight and blend the following day. Strain the jalapenos, onions and garlic into a blender, reserving the pickling liquid. Add about a half-cup of pickling liquid to the blender and blend. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid you use to blend, depending on the volume of the produce. You will have some pickling liquid left over. You can discard or re-use to make spicy pickles. Blend this mixture on high for 3 minutes, until you have a smooth hot sauce. Place in the desired container and refrigerate. For best flavor, enjoy within 4-6 weeks. *Depending on desired spice level, you can keep or remove jalapeno seeds. Removing seeds will make a milder hot sauce. G E O R G I A N E I G H B O R S / fa ll 2 02 6

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