Sweet Grown Alabama Hosts State Legislators for Luncheon
May 19, 2023
To celebrate locally grown products and Alabama farmers, Sweet Grown Alabama, the state’s non-profit agricultural branding program, hosted a legislative luncheon on May 17. Members of the Alabama Legislature attended the luncheon at the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association in downtown Montgomery. Lunch was catered by Sweet Grown Alabama members FDL – Gourmet To Go and featured locally grown products.
Chef Preston Williams has built relationships with local farmers to highlight fresh produce and enjoys cooking with local products.
“It’s always a pleasure to be able to cook with the amazing and high-quality meats, fruits and vegetables that Alabama ranchers and farmers produce; and it’s an honor when we can showcase these delicious products to the legislators of the state,” Williams said.
Among other farmers, Sweet Grown Alabama member Melissa Palmer from Palmer Farm in Wetumpka was in attendance. She stressed the importance of being able to network with members of the state Legislature and how important their support is for Alabama farmers.
“The legislative luncheon was a great way to connect with our legislators on issues farmers are concerned with in their respective communities,” Palmer said.
Sweet Grown Alabama’s Legislative Luncheon allowed members to engage with Legislators and enjoy a meal together showcasing our states great products.
“Sweet Grown Alabama would not be the successful ag promotion non-profit that it is without the support of our state legislature,” said Sweet Grown Alabama Director Ellie Watson. “It’s an honor to gather with Legislators and our farmers to enjoy a locally grown meal, fellowship and thank the Legislature for supporting Sweet Grown Alabama.”
Agriculture is one of Alabama’s largest industries accounting for over $70 billion of economic impact annually. Studies show that for every dollar spent locally, 60 cents stay within Alabama’s economy. Consumers can ensure their hard-earned money stays in Alabama when purchasing Sweet Grown Alabama products.
Featured farms included:
- Feguson Farms blueberries
- Penton Farms broccoli and lettuce
- Popwells Produce tomatoes and onions
- Sunshine Farms strawberries
- Trinity Farms beef
Sweet Grown Alabama exists to connect farmers and families. Consumers can search for locally grown products at SweetGrownAlabama.org, or by looking for the Sweet Grown Alabama logo when shopping.