Alabama Cattlemen's Association

What’s Going On Wednesday: May 30, 2018

Ok, Alberto. You can leave now.

While we appreciate the rain you left behind, an excess of 5″ in some areas is a little much. That being said, we are mindful of how fortunate we are to have rain; however in the midst of the heavy rainfall over the past few days, we must keep our friends in the west/central parts of Alabama in our thoughts and prayers today as they experience severe flash flooding. Our friends and neighbors in Marion, AL experienced 3″ of rain in just one hour’s time this morning leaving their hometown in the wake of heavy flood waters. Please pause today to say a prayer for our fellow cattlemen who are in the midst of weather-born crisis.

Though the rain falls, your state staff remains busy in good ole’ Montgomery town as we prepare for a busy week and summer season ahead. Keep reading to learn more…

Membership Update

With 9,595 members for the 2018 year, we are SO CLOSE to reaching our membership goal of 10,000 members. Help us keep the grassroots effort strong by getting involved in your county. To gently nudge those who haven’t joined or renewed their membership in 2018, ACA Membership Coordinator Jessica Kennedy is getting ready to kick start her cold calling campaign where she will individually call each non-renewed member to request their renewal. This campaign has been a success for us in the past, so we are going to give it another try. Want to join in on the effort? Give Jessica an email or call at (334) 265-1867 to obtain a list of cattlemen from your area who might like to hear from you!

Bama’s Best Beef- Winner Announced!

From the press release sent to the Pelham Reporter:

The Filet Kabobs dish from Smiley Brothers Specialty Foods, Pelham, has been named Bama’s Best Beef in a contest sponsored by the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association and the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program.

The contest, driven by fan interaction on Facebook, seeks out a unique beef dish served at an Alabama restaurant or food truck. Upon its nomination in the “Variety” category of the contest, the Filet Kabobs went head-to-head in a series of bracket challenges to earn their way to the title of Bama’s Best Beef. During the first week of photo challenges, the dish earned a win over “Roast” category finalist, Claunch Café’s (Tuscumbia) Roast Beef Sandwich. After securing their spot in the final round, the kabobs sat out a week as “Brisket” finalist, Big D’s Butts N’ Stuff’s (Monroeville) Brisket Panini, battled it out against “Steak” finalist, SALT at San Roc Cay’s (Orange Beach) 45-Day House Dry-Aged Mishima Reserve Wagyu Tomahawk Ribeye. After the Brisket Panini earned its spot in the final round, the Variety and Brisket representatives battled it out for the title, and after falling behind the Brisket Panini in reactions (votes), the Filet Kabobs came back late in the week and won by nearly 400 votes.

Following the first round of photo challenges, the team at Smiley Brothers Specialty Foods wrote on their Facebook page, “We are so humbled and thankful for such [amazing] and positive support from our community and friends! There were votes on both pictures from all over the country and even around the world. What a positive thing for Alabama to draw so much attention to local businesses across the state!”

Throughout the lifetime of the contest, the four finalists received extensive exposure on social media as the contest reached over 454,500 Facebook users, garnered 211 nominations, over 29,000 reactions, comments and shares and earned over 14,500 photo clicks.

The restaurant— new to the Pelham dining scene after Criss Smiley recently retired from 35 years in national food and beverage industry— focuses on food and family. On the restaurant’s “About Us” webpage it reads, “In this family, a passion for food is basically genetic. We aim to provide our customers with the highest quality food and a staff that is knowledgeable and passionate about amazing food.” Others on the team at the specialty butcher shop and deli which offers meats, cheeses and ready-to-heat meals are Executive Sous Chef Joshua Swinford and Sous Chef Jon Green.

“The edge Smiley Brothers has is their locally-sourced beef and aging process to give you a mouth-watering bite time after time with every cut of their meat,” said personality behind Dining Out With Comedienne Joy and Birmingham food critic Joy King.

Beef for Father’s Day

Today we are joined by the lovely leaders of the Alabama CattleWomen’s Association as we take a trip to Capitol Hill to visit with Gov. Kay Ivey. While visiting, we will present the governor with steaks and watch as she signs an official State of Alabama proclamation stating BEEF is what’s for Father’s Day. This tradition is over 50 years old as it began in the days of Mrs. E.H. (Louise) Wilson, and we’re proud to continue the effort of promoting beef on a statewide level.

SLIM’S SUMMER PICNIC

We are excited to present the 2nd annual Slim’s Summer Picnic happening at The MOOseum on June 15 from 11 AM – 2 PM. The MOOseum Coordinator Kara Harden has been hard at work lining up events for little buckaroos to enjoy, and she’s excited to announce that Lil Boots Rodeo will be here hosting all their fun Western-themed games and activities. We’ll also be grilling burgers and having a fun competition for whoever brings the biggest crowd! If you’ve got little ones that want to enjoy the cowboy fun, give Kara a call at (334) 265-1867!

ROUND-UP REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Are you ready to rock?! Registration for the 12th annual AJCA Round-Up, happening July 19-22 is now open online at BamaBeef.org/Round-Up. Also on that site, you’ll find contest and show rules, a schedule of events and 2018-2019 AJCA director applications. The Round-Up is more than just a calf show! If you don’t show cattle, that’s okay! The great news about the Round-Up is that there’s a contest for anyone and everyone. Check it out:

Photography
Ad Design
Record Book
Poster
Essay
Public Speaking
Skill-A-Thon
Career Development
Volleyball
Carne Fiesta (Cooking Competition)
Sales Talk
Cattle Judging
Team Grooming
Showmanship
Prospect Market Show
Breeding Heifer Show

Don’t miss out on all the fun and awesome prizes! Join us in Montgomery to show what you know and make lifelong friends.

AJCA membership is required to participate in the AJCA Round-Up. If membership is not current by July 15, your credit card will be charged the membership fee of $15.

You can view the 2018 contest rules, a schedule of events or the director application by clicking the links below. Registration is now available online and closes June 29 at 11:55 p.m.

JUNIOR PASTURE TO RAIL PROGRAM- REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Speaking of Junior Pasture to Rail, learn more about the program today by visiting www.BamaBeef.org/JP2R. The 2018 Junior Pasture to Rail program will be managed through the AJCA in conjunction with the current Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES) Pasture to Rail program. Youth will learn how to retain ownership on their cattle and how to market cattle on the grid. There will be four (4) educational programs beginning in fall 2018 to educate the participating youth about the cattle industry from pasture to plate.

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Cattle will be gathered at central locations around Alabama and shipped to Hy-Plains Feedlot in Montezuma, KS. Ear notches will be pulled for BVD-PI testing and calves will be tagged, weighed and graded at that time (frame/muscle score, BCS). Data/results will be provided at the awards presentation for the 2018 Pasture to Rail program. Awards will be given to the top three (3) youth based on profitability in two categories: individual profitability of one (1) calf and the average profitability of a pen of three (3) calves.

Data provided will include carcass data as well as feedlot performance, medical expenses, feed costs, etc.

Program Requirements:

Youth must be of age 21 or younger by January 1, 2018 to participate
Youth must be an AJCA, FFA or 4-H member
Steers are preferred, heifers can be entered but will be at a disadvantage for the program.
Cattle must be 600-lbs. at minimum on the day of shipment, be weaned and pre-conditioned for 60 days (castrated, dehorned and healed, dewormed) and be vaccinated/boostered for Blackleg, PI3, BVD, BSRV and IBR (modified live).
A $200 participation fee will be incurred for pens of three (3) or less. A $75/head fee will be added for additional entries.
Youth must attend a minimum of three (3) of four (4) educational programs to be eligible for any awards.

Registration will close August 31 at midnight.
This program is sponsored by the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program.

BAMA BEEF MEMBERSHIP GIVEAWAY

Last week’s membership drawing giveaway winner was Lynn Lambeth of Escambia County. Lynn is amping up her “grilliance” with a package that includes an ACA Tervis Tumbler, an “I Love Beef” apron and a Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. silicon oven mitt. This week’s contest will feature an ACA ball cap, a Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. bumper sticker, mug, pop socket and koozie and an ACA iwallet. Those interested can enter the drawing by joining or renewing their membership throughout the week. The winner will be drawn Tuesday, June 5 during the lunch hour.

Thanks for reading this week’s post! Until we post again next week , we want to remind you that you can stay in touch with us by following us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Paid for by Alabama Beef Farmers.

What’s Going On Wednesday: May 23, 2018

Rain has finally graced our pastures, which seems like a foreign concept from the past month, but more along the lines of normal- things are staying busy as usual at the ACAl. With a big Memorial Day Weekend coming up, we can already hear the sound of the sizzle as steaks, burgers and bbq hit the grill. We hope you and your family enjoy a safe, long weekend full of delicious beef and family fun. We also want to take a minute to tip our hat to the soldiers who died protecting our many rights and freedoms. While they are gone from this life, they are never forgotten. We are humbled by their courage and sacrifice.

Keep reading to learn more about what’s happening at the ACA this week.

Board Meeting Wrap-Up & Membership Update

After a busy and successful Board of Directors meeting last Thursday, we are THRILLED to announce we had 45 counties represented and had an excellent meeting with many great questions asked and information taken back home. We were proud to have the opportunity to award 26 “Over the Top” county presidents with a commemorative padfolio, while the grand prize of a Priefert squeeze chute rolled home behind the leadership from Escambia County. Congrats to Escambia, and big thanks to Fuller Supply and Priefert Ranch Equipment for their generous support of our incentive programs.

Another major topic of business discussed at last week’s meeting was membership year dates. For 2018, the membership year ends June 30. The 2019 membership year changes to January through December in 2019. All membership entered after July 1 will be “grandfathered into” that transition period. Secretaries and recruiters- continue your work as normal and ACA Membership Coordinator Jessica Kennedy will work on the transition at the state office to soften the impact of the transition. Our goal is for the counties to not feel any heat from the transitional period! To help questions along the way, the state office developed a County Leader Handbook, which was passed out to presidents and secretaries at last week’s meeting. If you did not receive one, or should you need additional copies, you can email Jessica or call her at (334) 265-1867.

Membership total for the day is 9,514. Cold calling from the state office begins on June 1. Leaders- let us know if you’d like a list of numbers so you can join in on this initiative!

Policy Update

Policy work is always on task. This week, the transportation bill to address hours of service for livestock haulers looks to drop in Senate. We are working to get a co-sponsor on House side from Alabama delegation.

Stockyard Visits

This week, ACA Director of Industry Relations & Youth Programs Michael Agar was joined at Clay County Livestock by ACA President-Elect Chris Langley and Regional Vice President Jim Jordan. The trio enjoyed lunch with market owner Tad Eason who kindly took time out of his day to visit with the group. Clay County can take pride in having a great, well-kept facility to market their cattle as well as an owner who wants to help them do that best. Pictured are ACA President-Elect Chris Langley, AJCA District 3 Director Chelsea Langley, Agar, Clay County Livestock Owner Tad Eason and two of his children, Clay County Cattlemen’s Association Vice President Mike Morrison and Regional Vice President Jim Jordan.

On Thursday, Michael will travel to South Alabama Livestock in Brundidge to visit with market owner Ed Jones. This leaves Michael with only one more market to visit in the state before he wraps up his first full year on the job at the beginning of June. Visiting each of Alabama’s stockyards at least once annually is an initiative of Michael’s, and we are proud to see him reach his first-year goal!

Bama’s Best Beef- Finalists Announced!

We’re in the final round of the 3rd annual Bama’s Best Beef contest, sponsored by the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program! Our two finalists, Smiley Brothers Specialty Foods (Pelham) “Filet Kabobs” and Big D’s Butts ‘N Stuff (Monroeville) “Brisket Panini” need your vote to help them earn the title of Bama’s Best Beef! To date the contest has reached over 335,700 people and garnered over 22,900 reactions, comments and shares. These are great numbers!

The winner we be announced on Tuesday, May 29.

On the Search for Associate Dean of Extension

ACA Executive Vice President Erin Beasley is participating in a seminar today with a candidate for associate dean of Extension at Auburn. This candidate has a strong beef cattle background. We will participate in one more seminar next week.

Slim’s Summer Picnic

We are excited to present the 2nd annual Slim’s Summer Picnic happening at The MOOseum on June 15 from 10 AM – 2 PM. The MOOseum Coordinator Kara Harden has been hard at work lining up events for little buckaroos to enjoy, and she’s excited to announce that Lil Boots Rodeo will be here hosting all their fun Western-themed games and activities. We’ll also be grilling burgers and having a fun competition for whoever brings the biggest crowd! If you’ve got little ones that want to enjoy the cowboy fun, give Kara a call at (334) 265-1867!

ROUND-UP REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Photography
Ad Design
Record Book
Poster
Essay
Public Speaking
Skill-A-Thon
Career Development
Volleyball
Carne Fiesta (Cooking Competition)
Sales Talk
Cattle Judging
Team Grooming
Showmanship
Prospect Market Show
Breeding Heifer Show

Don’t miss out on all the fun and awesome prizes! Join us in Montgomery to show what you know and make lifelong friends.

AJCA membership is required to participate in the AJCA Round-Up. If membership is not current by July 15, your credit card will be charged the membership fee of $15.

You can view the 2018 contest rules, a schedule of events or the director application by clicking the links below. Registration is now available online and closes June 29 at 11:55 p.m.

JUNIOR PASTURE TO RAIL PROGRAM- REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Data provided will include carcass data as well as feedlot performance, medical expenses, feed costs, etc.

Program Requirements:

Youth must be of age 21 or younger by January 1, 2018 to participate
Youth must be an AJCA, FFA or 4-H member
Steers are preferred, heifers can be entered but will be at a disadvantage for the program.
Cattle must be 600-lbs. at minimum on the day of shipment, be weaned and pre-conditioned for 60 days (castrated, dehorned and healed, dewormed) and be vaccinated/boostered for Blackleg, PI3, BVD, BSRV and IBR (modified live).
A $200 participation fee will be incurred for pens of three (3) or less. A $75/head fee will be added for additional entries.
Youth must attend a minimum of three (3) of four (4) educational programs to be eligible for any awards.

Registration will close August 31 at midnight.
This program is sponsored by the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program.

Bama Beef Membership Giveaway

Last week’s membership drawing giveaway winner was Daniel Wilhite of Cullman County. Daniel is the lucky winner of an ACA cap, a BEEF tag and an NCBA pocket knife. This week’s drawing features a prize package sure to amp up your “grilliance” this summer grilling season. The package includes an ACA Tervis Tumbler, an “I Love Beef” apron and a Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. silicon oven mitt. Those interested can enter the drawing by joining or renewing their membership throughout the week. The winner will be drawn Tuesday, May 29 during the lunch hour.

What’s Going On Wednesday: May 15, 2018

FINALLY SOME RAIN! We’re not so sure about you, but here in the central region of the state, this is one welcomed rainy day! That dry, cracked ground is drinking it each drop so it can nourish crops and forages and restock ponds as farmers across the state so desperately need. This rainy weather is not slowing us down any at the ACA. We’ve got a busy, busy week ahead, so keep reading to learn more about what’s happening around 201 S. Bainbridge.

Board Meeting Tomorrow

We’re excited to welcome over 150 attendees to the Spring Board of Directors Meeting tomorrow where we will be conducting a business meeting as well as offering breakout sessions to helping “Steer County Leaders Toward Success.” Breakout topics include an i4a membership software training demo with Jessica Kennedy, a policy update with Erin Beasley, information on youth programs with Michael Agar and tips to expand your county communications with Kayla Greer.

It’s a sure day of learning, networking and learning to be the best leader you can be! We look forward to having such a large crowd joining us. Don’t forget to bring your questions!

Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program Welcomes Class V

We’re proud to announce the 25 members of the Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program Class V, which kicks off today with farm tours in the Montgomery area. Tours include visits to Lane Cattle Company, McLane-Garrett Cattle Company and Montgomery Stockyards. The day will be topped off with a tour and social event, which welcomes officers and alumni of the program, at CK Cattle. On Thursday, the class will receive leadership training with Dr. Don Mulvaney and attend an ACA Board of Directors Meeting where the class will be formally introduced and learn about the role of the state association.

Members of Class V are:

Ida Agee, Shelby

Chase Anthony, Chambers

Brooke Bailey, Shelby

John Christopher Batts, Limestone

Tyler Bozeman, Lowndes

Hassey Brooks, Montgomery

Christina Brown, Geneva

Jensen Burt, Lee

Alex Crawford, Greene

Denzil Dees, Sumter

Ginger Gaines, Dale

John Glover, Hale

Cody Horton, Baldwin

Tyler Long, Conecuh

William Morgan, Crenshaw

TJ. Riner, Colbert

Charles Robbins, Washington

Lonnie Sigler, Lowndes

Cody Smith, Cullman

Zane Troxtel, DeKalb

Paul Vining, Lauderdale

Aubree White, Limestone

Jacob Whitfield, Barbour

Bart Williams, Autauga

Round-Up Registration Now Open

Photography
Ad Design
Record Book
Poster
Essay
Public Speaking
Skill-A-Thon
Career Development
Volleyball
Carne Fiesta (Cooking Competition)
Sales Talk
Cattle Judging
Team Grooming
Showmanship
Prospect Market Show
Breeding Heifer Show

Don’t miss out on all the fun and awesome prizes! Join us in Montgomery to show what you know and make lifelong friends.

AJCA membership is required to participate in the AJCA Round-Up. If membership is not current by July 15, your credit card will be charged the membership fee of $15.

You can view the 2018 contest rules, a schedule of events or the director application by clicking the links below. Registration is now available online and closes June 29 at 11:55 p.m.

Bama’s Best Beef- Round 2 Now Live

The first round of Facebook photo challenges- which put Claunch Cafe’s (Tuscumbia) “Roast Beef Sandwich” up head-to-head with Smiley Brothers Speciality Food’s (Pelham) “Filet Kabobs”- resulted in a win for the kabobs. It was a close fight, and we congratulate Claunch Cafe on a battle well-fought, but Smiley Brother’s extra 100 votes secured their spot in the final round. Now, round two of photo challenges have kicked off as our Brisket category finalist, Big D’s Butts N’ Stuff’s (Monroeville) “Brisket Panini,” and Steak category finalist, SALT at San Rock Cay’s (Orange Beach) “45-Day House Dry-Aged Mashimi Reserve Wagyu Tomahawk Ribeye” are battling it out for their spot in the final round. So far, our Brisket dish is winning by around 80 votes but there are many days left to vote!

Head on over to the contest where you can submit your vote with a LIKE on your favorite photo. Also, enjoy this great feedback to their fans on Facebook from our friends and contest finalists at Smiley Brothers Specialty Foods in Pelham on their win last week:

“Because of you and your votes, Smiley Brothers Specialty Foods has been selected as the winner of the first round of the Bama’s Best Beef competition from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association! We are so humbled and thankful for such AMAZING and positive support from our community and friends! There were votes on both pictures from all over the country and even around the world. What a positive thing for Alabama to draw so much attention to local businesses across the state!

Congratulations to Claunch Cafe for winning the “Roast” category and if you are in the Tuscumbia area, make sure to stop by and try their roast beef sandwich. We know we will!

We will have this week off from the competition while the “Brisket” and “Steak” entries compete and then next week we will face off against the winner. Thank you again and we hope you will consider voting for us next week!

The Smiley Brothers Team”

JUNIOR PASTURE TO RAIL PROGRAM- REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

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Data provided will include carcass data as well as feedlot performance, medical expenses, feed costs, etc.

Program Requirements:

Youth must be of age 21 or younger by January 1, 2018 to participate
Youth must be an AJCA, FFA or 4-H member
Steers are preferred, heifers can be entered but will be at a disadvantage for the program.
Cattle must be 600-lbs. at minimum on the day of shipment, be weaned and pre-conditioned for 60 days (castrated, dehorned and healed, dewormed) and be vaccinated/boostered for Blackleg, PI3, BVD, BSRV and IBR (modified live).
A $200 participation fee will be incurred for pens of three (3) or less. A $75/head fee will be added for additional entries.
Youth must attend a minimum of three (3) of four (4) educational programs to be eligible for any awards.

Registration will close August 31 at midnight.
This program is sponsored by the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program.

Bama Beef Giveaway Drawing- Week 1 Winner

We’ve started a series of giveaways on the ACA Facebook page to encourage cattlemen who need to join or renew to do so soon! This week, our giveaway package includes an ACA cap, a BEEF tag and a NCBA pocket knife. The giveaway is now open for entry, and the contest winner will be drawn during the lunch hour on Tuesday, May 22. Anyone who joins or renews now through Tuesday at noon will be entered to win!

Last week’s winner was Greg Jones of Blount County. Greg earned an ACA tumbler, cap and a BEEF tag. CONGRATS!

What’s Going On Wednesday: May 9, 2018

Fire up the grill and get ready to spoil your favorite mama this weekend as May brings all sorts of exciting events to celebrate. What are we talking about, you ask? Well, not only is this Sunday Mother’s Day (*hint hint gentlemen*), but May is also National Beef Month, National BBQ Month and National Hamburger Month. That’s four wonderful reasons to break out the grill and enjoy delicious, nutritious beef. Aside from what’s for dinner, Alabama’s cattlemen have a lot going on as we all begin to gear up for hay cutting season. Mother Nature has turned up the heat, and that green grass is soaking up the sunshine and growing taller and more nutritious with each passing day. We hope that while you’re taking a water break, you’ll enjoy catching up with your Cattlemen’s Association and getting the update about all that’s happening this week. Keep reading to learn more…

MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND

We all know that behind every successful farmer is a hardworking farm wife who can fix a mean fence, tenderly care for a bottle calf and toss square bales with the best of ’em. We all know that behind every kid in the show ring is a mama who is beaming with pride, covered in manure and has a hide comb in her back pocket and a halter in her hand. We all know that behind every delicious dinner is a fine, well-tuned home cook who not only grew the vegetables in the side dishes from her very own garden but also masterfully prepared them to fill you up each night.

We all know that a mother is irreplaceable, unforgettable and undeniably passionate about her family and its well-being. So to all our farm moms out there, our hats off to you. Thank you for the fine example of love, hard work and passion you display and gently sow into the next generation. Happy Mothers Day!

And for all you guys out there who may have forgotten, it’s not too late…breakfast in bed is as easy as it is delicious when you use these prepare recipes from BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com.

MEMBERSHIP & BOARD REMINDERS

County presidents and secretaries be sure to SAVE THE DATE for May 17 as we’ll be meeting up in Montgomery for an engaging, interactive Board meeting we’ve entitled: “Building the Brand: Steering County Leaders Toward Success.” We’re excited to have over 100 registrants for this event! It is sure to be a great day of learning, networking and having all your association questions answered. RSVP to attend by clicking here. Further, let Jessica know who will be attending her i4a membership software training so she can make arrangements for that presentation!

ACA Membership Coordinator Jessica Kennedy is updating county contact information for mailouts and emails. County leaders, please visit BamaBeef.org/CountyChapters today to double check your information. If you find something is incorrect, please call or email Jessica at the office- (334) 265-1867. Information needed includes mailing address, phone number and an email address, with emphasis on the email!

The final renewal notices for 2018 have gone out. If you need help figuring out how to enter memberships in your county, contact Jessica to schedule your i4a training. She will absolutely work around your schedule, day or night, to get you trained! We really need more county participation on the membership entering effort. The quicker county secretaries can learn to enter, the quicker your membership will get entered into the system and start receiving their magazines. We certainly don’t want anyone missing out on those!!

We want to continue to shoutout our Over the Top counties as we are extremely proud of their hard work and true, grassroots efforts. Over the Top counties include Bibb, Butler, Choctaw, Clay, Coffee, Colbert, Conecuh, Covington, Cullman, Dale, Escambia, Greene, Jackson, Jefferson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marshall, Morgan, Perry, Russell, Sumter, Washington and Winston counties! Now, this means there will be a very special presentation made at the August Board Meeting…you guessed it…RED COATS! County presidents- if you went Over the Top and do not already have a red coat, we cannot stress enough the importance of going to get fitted for your coat and sending the suggest size into Jessica. The reason why it’s so important you get fitted is because (1) we can’t return the coats should they not fit and (2) we cannot re-order your correct size until the next year…which means you’ll be without for another year!! (Our orders are set at a minimum volume, and we are unable to order just one or two coats at a time.) We know you want that coat just as much as we want to give it to you, so please get sized! P.S. if you’re planning to attend the Board Meeting on May 17, Jessica has a few limited sizes you may try on if you’d like 🙂 Please, send your coat size to Jessica asap!

JUNIOR PASTURE TO RAIL PROGRAM- REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Data provided will include carcass data as well as feedlot performance, medical expenses, feed costs, etc.

Program Requirements:

Youth must be of age 21 or younger by January 1, 2018 to participate
Youth must be an AJCA, FFA or 4-H member
Steers are preferred, heifers can be entered but will be at a disadvantage for the program.
Cattle must be 600-lbs. at minimum on the day of shipment, be weaned and pre-conditioned for 60 days (castrated, dehorned and healed, dewormed) and be vaccinated/boostered for Blackleg, PI3, BVD, BSRV and IBR (modified live).
A $200 participation fee will be incurred for pens of three (3) or less. A $75/head fee will be added for additional entries.
Youth must attend a minimum of three (3) of four (4) educational programs to be eligible for any awards.

Registration will close August 31 at midnight.
This program is sponsored by the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program.

Executive Committee Called Upon by President Batts

The ACA Executive Committee will gather at the Cattlemen’s Building on Thursday to prepare for next week’s Board of Directors meeting, discuss upcoming programs and handle other association business. The ACA Executive Committee is comprised of the five state officers, five past presidents and the four outgoing regional vice presidents. The Executive Committee will issue a report at next week’s Board meeting!

MEMBERSHIP GIVEAWAYS

We’ve started a series of giveaways on the ACA Facebook page to encourage cattlemen who need to join or renew to do so soon! This week, our giveaway package includes an ACA tumbler, cap and one of those beloved BEEF tags. The giveaway is now open for entry, and the contest winner will be drawn during the lunch hour on Tuesday, May 15. Anyone who joins or renews now through Tuesday at noon will be entered to win!

Visit our Facebook page and share this giveaway opportunity! Who knows…you may just see several of these throughout May and June…??

BAMA’S BEST BEEF CONTEST

Have you ever tried an unforgettable beef dish served at an Alabama restaurant or food truck? You’re not alone if you answered yes because the 3rd annual Bama’s Best Beef contest, which seeks out unique beef dishes in Alabama, brought in over 200 nominations representing restaurants from the Gulf Coast to the Tennessee line and everywhere in between. Our contest committee proudly unveiled our “Roast” and “Variety” finalists this week who are now competing head-to-head in a Facebook photo challenge. In the “Roast” corner is Claunch Cafe of Tuscumbia, AL’s Pot Roast Sandwich, while the “Variety” finalist is Pelham-based Smiley Brothers Speciality Foods’ Filet Kabobs. So far, the Filet Kabobs are taking the lead with 785 votes vs 367 votes on the Pot Roast Sandwich. Contest participants are encouraged to vote for their favorite dish by “Liking” its photo on our Facebook page now through Sunday, May 13 at midnight.

Fire Up the Grill… It’s Almost Summer!

By Jessica Ivey, RDN

Summertime means grilling time, and I fully embrace this fun method that takes the cooking from the kitchen to the outdoors. While I love the fact that my husband often makes dinner if the grill is involved, we girls can grill too.

The first step is to choose the right cut. I like to choose lean cuts, like Strip Steak, Top Sirloin Steak and Flank Steak most often, although a Ribeye is another delicious option. Next, prepare the beef. Start by trimming away all visible fat to help prevent flare-ups on the grill. While most of the cuts are delicious with a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper, dry rubs and marinades can add additional flavor. If your marinade is meant only to add flavor, then marinade the beef for just 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in a zip-top plastic freezer bag or a glass or plastic container in the refrigerator. For tougher cuts, like flank or skirt steak, marinade for at least six hours but no more than 24 hours. Turn or stir the beef occasionally to ensure an even exposure to the marinade, and be sure to pat the beef dry with paper towels before cooking.

Prepare your grill and preheat to medium heat. Place the beef on the grid and cook, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium-rare and 160°F for medium. Covering the grill with the lid will cook the meat all the way through to the center for a more uniform doneness. Let cooked steaks rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.

Grilling requires several food safety precautions. First of all, keep beef refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. If you’ll be taking the food to another site to grill, place the beef in an insulated cooler on ice to ensure it stays cold. Be sure to wash your hands after handling raw beef, and use a clean plate or platter (not the same one as the raw meat) for cooked beef to prevent cross-contamination.

While you’ve got the grill fired up, throw on some veggies as well. I love grilled asparagus, bell peppers, squash, zucchini and eggplant. Or why not skewer beef along with veggies for a fun meal-on-a-stick?! These Classic Beef, Sweet Peppers and Mushroom Kabobs are simple but big on flavor, and for a more adventurous option, try Citrus-Marinated Beef Top Sirloin & Fruit Kabobs. Grilling fruit caramelizes the natural sugars for a flavorful side dish or healthy dessert.

Head on over to BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com for more grilling favorites. I can’t get enough of my Grilled Steak and Asparagus Salad with Strawberries, which I’ll be serving up on the @alcattlemen Instagram story on Thursday, May 10. Join me for step-by-step instructions on this summery meal that’s full of flavor and nutrition!

This article was funded by Beef Farmers and Ranchers. Brought to you by the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program.

What’s Going On Wednesday: May 2, 2018

May has arrived, and it has brought some right warm weather along with it. Green grass has painted Alabama’s landscapes, and cattle can be seen grazing pastureland while cattlemen enjoy the view from inside the cab of a tractor as they prepare for hay cutting and mowing season. It’s a busy time for Alabama’s cattlemen…but when is it not? The same can be said for your association, so keep reading to learn more about all that’s happening at the ACA this week.

Membership & Board Reminders

The final renewal notices for 2018 went out last week. If you need help figuring out how to enter memberships in your county, contact Jessica to schedule your i4a training. We really need more county participation on the membership entering effort! The quicker county secretaries can learn to enter, the quicker your membership will get entered into the system and start receiving their magazines. We certainly don’t want anyone missing out on those!!

Colbert County Youth Programs- Coming Soon!

This Thursday, ACA Director of Industry Relations & Youth Programs Michael Agar will travel to the Colbert County Extension office to meet with Ag teachers and youth industry leaders in the area about 4-H animal science projects and the newly-founded Colbert County Junior Cattlemen’s Association. Statewide Junior Cattlemen programs such as Round-Up and Junior Pasture to Rail Program will also be discussed.

Junior Pasture to Rail Program- Registration Now Open

Data provided will include carcass data as well as feedlot performance, medical expenses, feed costs, etc.

Program Requirements:

Youth must be of age 21 or younger by January 1, 2018 to participate
Youth must be an AJCA, FFA or 4-H member
Steers are preferred, heifers can be entered but will be at a disadvantage for the program.
Cattle must be 600-lbs. at minimum on the day of shipment, be weaned and pre-conditioned for 60 days (castrated, dehorned and healed, dewormed) and be vaccinated/boostered for Blackleg, PI3, BVD, BSRV and IBR (modified live).
A $200 participation fee will be incurred for pens of three (3) or less. A $75/head fee will be added for additional entries.
Youth must attend a minimum of three (3) of four (4) educational programs to be eligible for any awards.

Calves will be shipped at specified dates between August 2018 to March 2019. In order to ship, calves must meet the aforementioned pre-conditioning requirements. Ship dates and locations as well as educational programs will be communicated as determined.
Registration will close August 31 at midnight.
This program is sponsored by the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program.

County Activities & A Photo Shoot at Lake Majestik Farm

Michael has been burning up the roads of north Alabama along with ACA Director of Social Media & Communications Kayla Greer. Last week, Michael traveled to Dekalb County to attend the county annual meeting where he enjoyed visiting with President Zane Troxel and northeast Alabama cattlemen. He then headed south to Thorsby in Chilton County where he had a beef by-products booth at the Thorsby High School Farm Day. Kayla then joined him on Saturday for a trip north to the Crimson Classic Santa Gertrudis female sale at Cullman Stockyard.

The duo then headed north again on Monday afternoon to visit with Nic Cornelison of Flat Rock, owner of Lake Majestik Farm and purchaser of the 2018 PAC auction July cover of the Alabama Cattleman magazine. The pair enjoyed spending time with Nic and touring his scenic farm and seeing some big-name bulls in the Brangus breed including Foundation, Beacon, Legacy and Xerox. Be looking out for a black-hided bovine to grace the July cover!

Professional Development Workshop

This week ACA Executive VP Erin Beasley has been at the Professional Development Workshop in Chicago with fellow state association executives. This conference is a collaborative conference to discuss policy issues, checkoff information, best management practices for associations and other topics to help state affiliates.

Ag Issues Luncheon in Northwest Alabama

Erin won’t get back home before she hits the road again, but this time she will be staying within state lines. On Thursday, she is looking forward to a big day as she is joined by Regional Vice President Jay Buckley of Colbert Co., Colbert County President Will Gotcher and Franklin County President Steven Smith to participate in an ag issues luncheon hosted by Congressman Robert Aderholt. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue will be a special guest of the congressman and will visit with the ag community on policy issues we are facing.

Bama’s Best Beef Contest

Have you ever tried an unforgettable beef dish served at an Alabama restaurant or food truck? You’re not alone if you answered yes because the 3rd annual Bama’s Best Beef contest, which seeks out unique beef dishes in Alabama, brought in over 200 nominations representing restaurants from the Gulf Coast to the Tennessee line and everywhere in between. Our contest committee is in review now mulling through the many nominations in the brisket, steak, roast and variety categories and looks forward to unveiling the first to finalist to Facebook fans on Monday as we launch our first round of photo challenges where contest participants vote for their favorite dish by “Liking” its photo on our social media platform.

The nominations portion of the contest did not disappoint as it reached over 65,038 Alabamians, gained over 6,600 reactions, including likes, shares and comments, and resulted in almost 200 new page likes. Additionally, as a direct result of the Facebook ad, over 460 Facebook users clicked to the contest page on BamaBeef.org, gaining traffic for the association website. We look forward to bigger results as we move into photo challenges! Stay tuned for our category finalists…