SELMA — In 1955, members of the farming and city communities sat down to discuss animal and environmental issues that previously had divided the people of the area.

“It’s now been commemorated every year with a presidential proclamation,” said Jeff Helms, Chairman of the Alabama Farm City Committee. “The idea here is to take people with different views, have these people at a table and let them talk.”

The event is now referred to as Farm City Week, which runs the week in November prior to Thanksgiving.

This year the event features a Buttonhole Breakfast at the Alabama Farmer’s Co-op on Thursday at 7:30 a.m.

Perry Mobley, of the Alabama Farmers Federation, will be the guest speaker. Mobley will discuss how farmers care for their animals.

This topic is based off of this year’s theme, “Farmers care for animals and you.”

“We’re trying to help people see the farmers really do care about the animals,” Helms said. “You don’t want to mistreat an animal that will ultimately be food on your table.”

Students from area schools participated in a poster and essay contest based off this year’s theme. Winners from both contests will be announced at the breakfast.

The winning posters and some essays will be made into a calendar.

Educating students about farming and farmers themselves is important, according to Callie Nelson of the Alabama Cooperative Extension system.

“Some kids think milk comes from Wal-Mart,” Nelson said. “They have no idea there’s a cow behind it.”

Purchase tickets for $10 preferably prior to the event from the Selma-Dallas County Chamber of Commerce. Tickets will also be available at the door.