"Thank a Farmer" lucheon set for Oct. 15; RSVP by Oct. 9

HAMILTON — Calling all farmers! And asking church members of farmers, businesses who have farmers as customers and all friends and neighbors of farmers to please help spread the word about a special upcoming event.
As part of the statewide “Thank a Farmer” initiative, all farmers in Marion County are invited to a special luncheon to take place in their honor on Oct. 15 in Hamilton.
The inaugural “Thank a Farmer” luncheon will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 11 a.m. at Xtra Events & Parties located at 851 Military St. North. Please RSVP by Oct. 9 with your name, phone number and the number of guests to be attending with the farmer to 205-921-3551.
“We know you’re busy,” said organizer and Extension Agent Ginger Eatman. “We want your lunch that day to be on us!  It's the least we can do!
“This is a ‘come as you are’ event. Come straight from the field and share a special meal with us and other farmers in this area.”
The luncheon is sponsored by Marion County Extension & Northwest RC&D, who are supporting Alabama Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate in his “Thank a Farmer” campaign.
Eatman noted Pate’s campaign aims to increase public appreciation for farmers and raise awareness about where food comes from.
“Through the ‘Thank a Farmer’ initiative, we’re encouraging Alabamians to show more gratitude for the food they enjoy and the people who grow it,” Pate has said. “During COVID, it became apparent that food security is national security. Farmers are frontline workers providing the food we so often take for granted. We are proud to celebrate them, and we want to ensure every consumer understands the critical role farmers play in feeding families across Alabama and beyond.
“I’m so proud of the work we’ve done through Sweet Grown Alabama, and this new initiative will only serve to further raise awareness of the vital role farmers play in each of our lives.”
Marion County Extension Director Carla Lewis also commented on farmers’ importance in our society.
“Alabama farmers are more than growers—they’re caretakers of our land, our traditions, and our future,” Lewis said.
“Though farm and ranch families make up less than 2 percent of the U.S. population, each farm feeds an average of 169 people every year, both here at home and around the world. Through early mornings and long days, no matter the weather or circumstance, they provide for our families and strengthen our communities. Their hands tell the stories of hard work, hope and heart.
“Today, and everyday, we’re deeply thankful. Cooperative Extension walks alongside these producers—offering research-based support, education and resources to help farms thrive and adapt in a changing world. Together, we grow stronger.
“Marion County Extension is thankful for our producers, big and small. To be able to take time to highlight their individual and collective hard work is important to recognizing the impact they make in our lives. We are so appreciative of the opportunity to provide media coverage and the ‘Thank a Farmer’ luncheon this year.
“If you know a farmer, take a moment to say thank you—whether it’s a kind word, a handwritten note, a social media shoutout or buying from their farm stand. Every gesture reminds them that their work matters—and that we see them."
 
Please RSVP
by Oct. 9
For more information on the luncheon or to RSVP, contact the Extension Office at 205-921-3551.

Bring a photo, share some information
The Journal-Record is encouraging farmers to also bring a photo of their farm or a photo taken at their farm to be scanned at the luncheon to be published in a special upcoming newspaper section saluting local farmers. Farmers can also share a few brief notes about their farm at the event with newspaper staff.
Any farmers wanting to share photos and information ahead of the luncheon are invited to do so by emailing peter@myjrpaper.com or bringing their photos by the newspaper office.
Please help the Journal-Record help Extension and RC&D salute you and the great farmers in Marion County by being a part of this special newspaper section.