Alabama-grown food, flavors and political philosophies spiced up the Alabama Farmers Federation Taste of Alabama reception for around 250 legislators, state leaders and farmers at the Montgomery Federation home office Feb. 15.

Legislators and elected officials mingled with constituents and sampled food grown and served by Alabama farmers. Federation President Jimmy Parnell said the annual reception highlights agriculture’s importance to Alabama.

“This is an opportunity for our leaders to come and spend a little time with elected officials from the state and get to know each other better,” Parnell said. “It’s about building relationships that help when you have future issues.”

Macon County farmer Jimmy Bassett said he appreciated getting to thank legislators for their work on behalf of Alabamians.

“They meet with us one-on-one, and we get to talk to them about our concerns,” Bassett said. “We also get to see products from other farmers around the state.”

Alabama Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey and new Attorney General Steve Marshall joined senators and representatives at the reception.