Jeff Helms, director of the Alabama Farmers Federation Public Relations and Communications Department, recently announced several changes within the department.Debra Davis has been named publications director and will serve as editor of both Neighbors and Friends & Family magazines. Davis joined the Federation staff in 1998 as county communications director and Cultivator editor. In 2005, her responsibilities grew to include that of editor of Friends & Family and assistant editor of Neighbors.”Debra has extensive experience in journalism and publications management and will do an outstanding job directing the editorial and financial budgets of our publications,” Helms said. “She will continue to play a vital role in the coordination and execution of public relations campaigns, special projects and other communications initiatives.”Federation Art Director Mike Moody, who has worked for the Federation since 2005, has been promoted to director of new media. His primary responsibilities had been the design of Neighbors, Friends & Family and the Alfa Journal. In addition to those duties, his role has been expanded to include digital magazine editions and strategies to help the Federation more effectively utilize the Web, e-publications, smartphones, electronic newsletters, social media, syndicated Web content and other technologies.”Mike’s experience and innovative thinking helps add a new dimension to our department,” Helms said. “As technology changes, it’s important we stay on top of the new and best ways to deliver our message. His creativity will help steer us into a new information age.”Melissa Martin is now the Cultivator editor and Web content manager for the Federation. Melissa joined the Federation two years ago after working for Alfa Insurance since 2004. She earned her bachelor’s degree in communications from Auburn University – Montgomery.”Melissa has been a valuable addition to our staff, and we are excited about her expanded role,” Helms said. “She has already used her creative talents to write news releases, feature stories and advertising copy. In her new position, Melissa will be able to dedicate more of her time to telling the stories of our farmer members,” he added.