Alabama Cattlemen's Association

What’s Going On Wednesday: March 1, 2017

Happy March! Springtime is upon us and the time change will soon bring an extra hour of sunlight in the afternoons. No one quite appreciates that extra hour like a farmer. Don’t you agree?When we asked Dr. Powell for his information for today’s post, he said, “We are working!!” If that’s not true, nothing is! Between memberships coming in, SLE Rodeo preparations and advertising, the ongoing legislative session and warm weather springing different events to life, we are busy at the ACA. We like to stay busy, though, especially if it means working for Alabama’s beef cattle producers. Keep reading to find out what all we have going on at the ACA this week.

Membership Update

On Monday, we sent an email to our Board Members that included very important information. To recap, we sent out the county assignments for each of the 12 regional vice presidents. We also included a membership count and are pleased to be at nearly 8,400 members. Kuddos to Clay County, who has joined Greene County in the ranks of “Over the Top.” Another bit of important information for our Board Members: it’s not too late to earn your red coat. The officers have gotten together and decided to extend the deadline to March 31! Email or call Jessica Kennedy for county membership lists. Know where you are so you can take advantage of the extension and reach out to those who haven’t renewed!

Certified Angus Beef

ACA Assistant Executive Vice President Erin Beasley is spending time today the Certified Angus Beef Specialist Seminar in Mobile as it features foodservice and retail specialists from around the world. The conference focuses on education about the product from Pasture to Plate. By gaining more knowledge about this product, we can improve our education programs with retail and foodservice partners who sell CAB.

AU Faculty Search Continues

On Tuesday, Dr. Billy Powell received updates from Dr. Wayne Greene at Auburn’s College of Agriculture about several open positions that ACA on search committee for. We have high hopes to hire two outstanding Extension Agents in livestock marketing and forages to replace the positions once held by Dr. Walt Prevatt and Dr. Jennifer Johnson. Stayed tuned for information on those hires in the future!

Monitoring the Legislature

The Ag Coalition met on Tuesday to continue monitoring legislative activity. There are very few bills that have been introduced that will impact the agricultural industry. This is great news, but we will continue to monitor this session on your behalf. On Thursday, ACA Executive Vice President and Lobbyist Dr. Billy Powell will be spending time in the State House as he talks to legislators about pending legislation and monitors activity in both the House and Senate Chambers. He’s hoping to gain more insight on the General Fund budget and two other specific items, CAFO and Garrett Coliseum funding, during his time on Capitol Hill.

YCLP Apps Out Now

We’ve got Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program applications flying in left and right! We are thrilled to meet all who are interested in this program and watch them grow in the years to come. If you want to apply, visit www.bamabeef.org/yclp.

Wrapping Up County Annual Meetings

We attended the Chilton County Annual Meeting on Tuesday night and are proud to wrap up another season of outstanding county meetings. We’re excited to work with new Board members in the year to come and we will see them all on May 9 at the Spring Board Meeting! Save the date!

Preparing for SLE Rodeo

The members and staff of the Southeastern Livestock Exposition are preparing for the big event headed to Montgomery March 16-18. Staff has kicked off social media, radio, television and outdoor advertisements and has started making on-air appearances at WSFA-12, WBAM 98.9 and WACV 93.1 so far this week. We hope to have hometown rodeo clown Trent McFarland joining us on the airwaves soon as Trent is excited to be part of the SLE Rodeo team this year! Events will kick off next week on March 9 with the SLE Livestock Judging Contest at the Garrett Coliseum. On a side note, our equine friends out there may be interested to know that the Alabama Horse Fair starts today at the Garrett Coliseum grounds.

We also have a great contest happening now on our Facebook page! now through Wednesday, March 8, interested vocalists can submit a video of themselves singing the National Anthem for a chance to win the opportunity to kick off the Friday, March 17 show off in true patriotic fashion. Enter Here

There’s so much going on, and you can find all the info you need by visiting www.slerodeo.com. Here’s a brief rundown of all you can expect:

Thursday Night at 7 p.m.- Children 12 and under enter FREE
Friday Night at 7 p.m.- Family 4-Pack (4 tickets for $40!)
PRCA Freestyle Bullfighting will take place Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights with bulls from Hurricane Hookers Ranch in Louisiana
WORLD-CLASS bucking stock from PRCA Top Stock Contractor Frontier Rodeo Company from Freedom, Oklahoma
Stick Horse Rodeo for the kiddos each night at 5:45 p.m.
Western Festival on Saturday from 10 a.m. until noon

Call us today to get your tickets! 1-888-2RODEO2

Thanks for reading this week’s post! We’ll be back next week- same time, same place. Until then, we want to remind you that you can stay in touch with us by following us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Have a great week and don’t forget to purchase your SLE Rodeo tickets!

What’s Going On Wednesday: February 22, 2017

Whew! It’s a busy, busy time at the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association. It’s been quite the whirlwind of events and activities, but we are thrilled with the success and the future outlook of our association! We are very proud that last week’s convention hosted over 600 attendees, youth, guests, vendors and industry partners. The 74th annual ACA Convention and Trade Show was a great one, and we appreciate all who came out! We enjoyed seeing each of you, and we particularly enjoyed learning who our new team of state leaders are. For those who haven’t heard yet, here’s the lineup of new state leaders:

ACA President- Richard Meadow, Houston

ACA President-Elect- Jack Batts, Limestone

ACA Vice President- Chris Langley, Chambers

ACA Treasurer- LD Fitzpatrick, Lowndes

New Regional Vice Presidents:

Ashley Catrett, Crenshaw

Jim Jordan, Clay

Sabrina McKinney, Autauga

Brian Smith, Lauderdale

2o17 is sure to be a great year, but we are just worried about this week on today’s post! Keep reading to learn allllllll that’s happening around the ACA this week!

A Watchful Eye on the Legislative Session

Ag Coalition met Tuesday morning to go over 400-500 bills that have already been introduced. the legislative process is pretty slow and committee meetings are taking place. No consensus made on big topics such a gas tax, prison reform and redistricting. There is work being done on both the Education Budget and the General Fund. The General Fund budget is projected to look tight again with no general consensus to raise revenue. On another note, Gov. Bentley appointed a special task force yesterday to look into ways to remove the sales tax on food.

All in all, we are feeling good about this session. Nothing of substance that could either positively or negatively affect the agricultural industry has been introduced, and there’s no projection for it.

SLE Rodeo and 2017 Media Luncheon

The members of the Southeastern Livestock Exposition met at the building on Tuesday for rodeo committee updates and to host Montgomery-area media in for a steak luncheon. SLE President Walter Crim, color commentator and Frontier Rodeo Company General Manager Don Gay and 2017 SLE Rodeo entertainer Trent McFarland informed the media about what to expect at this year’s show!

There’s so much going on, and you can find all the info you need by visiting www.slerodeo.com. Targeted social media advertising, tv spots, radio interviews and billboards will be hitting the marketing channels soon! Here’s a brief rundown of all you can expect:

Thursday Night at 7 p.m.- Children 12 and under enter FREE
Friday Night at 7 p.m.- Family 4-Pack (4 tickets for $40!)
PRCA Freestyle Bullfighting will take place Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights with bulls from Hurrican Hookers Ranch in Louisiana
WORLD-CLASS bucking stock from PRCA Top Stock Contractor Frontier Rodeo Company from Freedom, Oklahoma
Stick Horse Rodeo for the kiddos each night at 5:45 p.m.
Western Festival on Saturday from 10 a.m. until noon

Call us today to get your tickets! 1-888-2RODEO2

Amping Up SLE Security

Following the media luncheon, SLE staff had a meeting with the Garrett Coliseum staff to discuss new policies on security. This year, rodeo-goers can expect heavier security at the gates of the Coliseum. This will include bag searches, scans and absolutely no guns or alcohol allowed. To strengthen the security front, we are negotiating with a firm out of Birmingham to supply professional security services to this year’s show. This group monitors University of Alabama and Auburn University football games and BJCC events in Birmingham.

So Long, Capital City Stampede

We are working to close the books on the 74th annual ACA Convention and Trade Show. While registration and monies are matched and counted, scholarship and new officer press releases are being sent across the state to hometown newspapers, and the March issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine is in its final stages of production. Organizing and captioning all those convention photos takes some time, but you’ll get to reminisce come March when that magazine painted with the First Family’s faces hits your mailbox.

TV Broadcaster of the Year- Charlie Platt

ACA President Richard Meadows and Past President Max Bozeman will shining their faces on the Charlie Platt show on Thursday in Dothan to present him with “TV Broadcaster of the Year” plaque he was awarded at this year’s convention. Charlie does an outstanding job of helping us promote beef during October Beef Month and is a big fan of Alabama’s beef cattle industry.

Spring Board Meeting

Hey, speaking of President Richards Meadows, he has set the Spring Board Meeting Tuesday, May 9. Board members, make plans to attend as it will be a great meeting with plans to attend the legislature!

The Search for an Associate Dean of Instruction

ACA Assistant Executive Vice President Erin Beasley is serving on the search committee for Associate Dean of Instruction for the College of Agriculture at Auburn University. We are interviewing three outstanding candidates over the next week. This position serves as a key to student recruitment and innovation of teaching within the college. It requires someone who is forward-thinking and has the commitment to produce a highly marketable student out of the college.

Talking Beef in Birmingham

Next week, the Beef Checkoff will sponsor Holley Grainger to speak at the Alabama Dietetic Association annual meeting in Birmingham. Holley is a registered dietitian and has a large footprint on social media promoting healthy lifestyles and cooking techniques. She is a Birmingham native and will be a highlight of the program for ALDA this year.

Downs, Holliman, Parnell Inducted into Alabama Livestock Hall of Fame

The Alabama Livestock Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to the state’s livestock industry. The Hall of Fame was established in 1984 by the Southeastern Livestock Exposition and Alabama Cattlemen’s Association and is housed in the Cattlemen’s Building in historic downtown Montgomery. View our newest Alabama Livestock Hall of Fame inductees below.

John Downs

16711878_976452999157370_8002514180393761763_n John Downs of Dothan began Southern Cattle Company (SCC) 25 years ago. With several successful steel business ventures under his belt, he fulfilled a lifelong dream and purchased his first cattle and original 400 acres of SCC, where the headquarters now stand today. What was meant to be just a hobby farm, has developed into one of the largest and most respected purebred operations in the south. Downs has farms in Alabama and Florida and has run up to 6,000 head of cattle.

The youngest of nine children, John was born in central Alabama to tenant farmers. At 18, Downs got his first public job with Gamble Steel Co. in Montgomery. The ethics of hard work learned in that cotton field began paying off. In 1976, with a wife and three children to support, he took the leap and purchased a red barn in Webb, Alabama, and with $10,000, he began what is now Qualico Steel Company. With the help of family and other partners, Downs’ steel business has expanded to seven steel-related companies in three states employing over 500 team members.

Read more about John in the March issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine.

Jimmy Holliman

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Jimmy Holliman of Marion Junction was raised on a cotton farm in the Mississippi Delta. He received a B.S. in Animal Science and a Master’s Degree in Animal Nutrition from Mississippi State University. Holliman was employed by Auburn University for 42 at the Black Belt Research and Extension Center in Marion Junction where he was named director of the station in 1989. Jimmy started Circle H Cattle Farm in 1982 where he raises black Simmental cattle. He is a member of the First Step Bull Sale Group.

Holliman is widely known as a local, state and national leader in the beef cattle industry. He served as a Regional Vice President of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association and as President of the Alabama Beef Cattle Improvement Association. He was president of the Alabama Purebred Breeds Council in 1990-1992 and was elected the 69th president of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association.

Holliman has received numerous awards for his service to the beef cattle industry.

Read more about Jimmy in the March issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine.

Jimmy Parnell

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Parnell is a native of Stanton where he is a fifth-generation farmer and a partner in his family’s beef cattle and timber operations. He is a graduate of Auburn University in agricultural business and economics. Parnell has been an outstanding leader with agricultural organizations including Alabama Farmers Federation, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association and the Alabama Forestry Association.

Jimmy is currently serving as president and CEO of the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance Corporation. He and his wife, Robin, have two children, James Robert and Anna Grace who have been very active in showing cattle and have each served as president of the Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association. The family attends Hillcrest Baptist Church in Maplesville.

Read more about Jimmy in the March issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine.

ACA Newly-Elected Regional Vice Presidents

Brian Smith, Lauderdale

16807384_10211605772761182_5786141479857831657_n Brian grew up in Green Hill in Lauderdale County and has lived on the family farm all his life. He graduated from Rogers High School and received a B.S. and Master’s degree from the University of North Alabama.
Under his leadership, the Junior Cattlemen’s membership grew to the largest in the state, and the county membership grew from 423 to 514. Brian, along with the juniors, led the incredible effort to raise funds and take 21 heifers to ranchers in South Dakota following a tragic snowstorm that wreaked havoc on cattle ranches in 2013. Read more about Brian in the March issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine.

Sabrina McKinney, Autauga

Sabrina of Autaugaville has been involved in the cattle industry since 16729463_10211604345845510_228181977817076420_n childhood. A longtime leader in the cattle industry, Sabrina is the past president of the Autauga County Cattlemen’s Association. She has been active in the Alabama Angus Association, American National Cattlewomen’s Association and the Alabama CattleWomen’s Association serving in multiple officers and on numerous committees. Read more about Sabrina in the March issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine.

Jim Jordan, Clay

Jim, Talledega, is a lifelong resident of Clay County. Aft 16711800_10211604345765508_4394131309011785082_n er graduating in 1992, he worked in the timber industry for many years and in 2002 started his own business, Envirogrind LLC, which he still runs today. He is owner and operator of 4J Farm, which is a small commercial cow/calf and registered show cattle operation. He and his wife of 21 years, Kim, have two sons, Will (16) and Russell (13) who are very active in the Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association. Read more about Jim in the March issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine.

Ashley Catrett, Crenshaw

16711674_10211604345925512_4333996478735876684_n Ashley is a native of Elba and attended Troy University where she earned a B.S. in Elementary Education and Master’s Degree in Special Education. Currently, she is Director of Curriculum for Career and Technical Education, and Accountability for Crenshaw County Public Schools. Ashley, her husband Perry and two daughters, Cassidy and Cameron, own Shinglepile Creek Farm in Luverne, a 50-head commercial and purebred cow/calf operation.The cattle business is a family affair for the Catrett’s as Cassidy and Cameron have both grown up exhibiting and judging cattle. Read more about Ashley in the March issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine.

Langley Elected ACA Vice President

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Christopher Langley, Sr. of Lafayette in Chambers County was elected vice president of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association on February 16 at the 74th Annual Cattlemen’s Convention and Trade Show in Montgomery.

Chris graduated from Lyman Ward Military Academy and received an Associate’s degree in welding from Southern Union State Community College. A fifth-generation farmer, Chris has proudly has been in the cattle and timber business for 35 years on the same family land. His wife, Elizabeth, also grew up on a large cattle farm and is actively involved in the operation. Langley Farms runs a commercial herd of Angus and SimAngus cattle. Chris is co-founder of Piedmont Cattle Marketing Association where he has sold calves for over 20 years.

As an active member of the county and state association, Chris has served as president of the Chambers County Cattlemen’s Association, taking the county “Over the Top” in membership. He has also served as regional vice president for the last three years. He has been active in the Alabama Angus Association, Alabama Forestry Association, Alabama Farmers Federation and is an alumni of the AU Leaders Program Class VI.

Chris and Elizabeth have four children, Christopher (22), Charlie (20), Chandler (18) and Chelsea (16) who are all active on the farm.

Learn more about Chris and his family by reading the March issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine.

Meadows Elected President, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association

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Richard Meadows, Houston County, was elected to serve as president of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association February 16 at the Opening General Session of the 74th annual ACA Convention & Trade Show. This title follows a term of serving as both president-elect and vice president of the state association.

Richard is a proud member of the sixth generation to grow up on his family’s row crop and commercial cattle farm in Columbia, Alabama. Richard has been involved in the cattle industry since he was very young, and he and his siblings showed steers throughout their 4-H years. Profits from the steer projects were invested in purchasing his very own cattle, and at age 11, Richard bought his first commercial heifer. By age 14, he was able to buy his first purebred Charolais cows. From these beginnings, the family partnership of Meadows Creek Farm was formed between Richard and his brother, Glenn. Today, Meadows Creek Farm raises purebred Charolais and commercial crossbred cattle.

While in 4-H, Richard was on the state champion Livestock Judging team. He continued that trend while in college at Auburn University, by serving on both the livestock and meats judging teams. He continues to use his skill set to judge cattle shows throughout the Southeast.

Learn more about Richard and his family by reading the March issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine.

What’s Going On Wednesday: February 8, 2017

Howdy, Cattlemen! We missed catching up with you all last week while we were in Nashville at the 2017 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. It was a great time of learning, meeting and seeing so many friends from across the nation that share the bonds of cattle production. We were thrilled to see so many attendees from Alabama and enjoyed exploring that massive Trade Show with over 350 vendors. We’re also proud to have attended the largest NCBA Convention in history with over 9,500 attendees- wow!!

Speaking of Covnention, if you hear about a whirlwind striking Downtown Montgomery near the Cattlemen’s Building, never fear. It’s just your ACA staff running around making final details come together for next week’s 74th annual ACA Convention & Trade Show. This week is all about Convention preparation, but we want to be sure to keep you informed about all that’s going on as we prepare for the busy month of February. Keep reading to find out all that’s happening this week among your state staff.

Capital City Stampede- 74th Annual ACA Convention & Trade Show

One week from today. In just ONE WEEK from today we will be welcoming cattlemen from across the state to the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Convention Center for our 74th annual ACA Convention & Trade Show.

We’ve got a sold out Trade Show with over 70 vendors, four outstanding Cattlemen’s College sessions and a great lineup of keynote speakers for our General Sessions. Speaking of that, in the past week we learned that CattleFax Analyst Chad Spearman couldn’t make the trip down to update us on the markets. Now, don’t go getting upset yet because we’ve got some great news to go with that sour lemon. Instead of Chad Spearman, we get his boss- CattleFax CEO Randy Blach will be joining us instead. Those of you who attended NCBA Convention know that Randy gave an outstanding market update concerning weather, exports and future outlooks. Click here to learn more about Randy Blach.

We don’t want you to miss out on all the great events we’ve got coming our way next week. Get pre-registered now until FRIDAY at noon by visiting www.bamabeef.org/convention to guarantee your meals. Otherwise, walk-in registration is on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Legislative Session

Today was the first day of the Legislative Session which is expected to be a difficult one as redistricting has been added to the already-full agenda. We look forward to getting a first-hand update from the two leaders – Rep. Mac McCutcheon, Speaker of the House, and Senator Del Marsh, President Pro Tempore of the Senate at the Board meeting Luncheon next Wednesday during the Convention. Don’t miss out!

Your Ag Coalition is meeting weekly to follow this session and ensure the protection of farmers and landowners across the state.

MEMBERSHIP, COUNTY MEETINGS AND A JOHN DEERE GATOR

Counties across the state are hosting annual meetings, and ACA officers and staff are working to attend each and every one! We’ve really enjoyed getting to visit with cattlemen across the state and appreciate the generous hospitality. Unfortunately, we can’t be there if you don’t let us know, so send your upcoming county meeting information to Jessica Kennedy at the state office. If you need ACA trinkets such as membership applications, place mats, napkins, etc for your meeting PLEASE let Jessica know ASAP!

A few notes from the Membership Office:

“Over the Top” Deadline – All membership needs to be in the state office or postmarked by February 28^th to qualify for “Over the Top” awards.
Several counties have entered membership but have not yet sent payment. This is a reminder that membership is processed when payment is received at the state office, so get that check sent in! Get those memberships and payments into the office by THIS FRIDAY to have updated numbers included on your Board Meeting handout.
Following your county meeting, send us your new officers so we can update them in our system! Simply email them to Jessica.

To check out information on your county meeting, visit our Bama Beef Events Calendar today. If your meeting isn’t posted or there’s any important information missing, give Jessica a call at (334) 265-1867.

John Deere Gator Information: YOU can win a John Deere Gator XUV 560 one of two ways…

Recruit a new member, and their name as well as your name is entered. For each new member you recruit, that’s an extra chance, so recruit, recruit, recruit!
Buy a raffle ticket! Tickets sales kick off to ACA MEMBERS at the ACA Convention and Trade Show on Feb. 15-16. Members can purchase one ticket for $10 or three for $20. Did we mention that the Gator is a $10,000 value…

Bama Beef Events Calendar

Speaking of upcoming events, stay informed about all that’s happening in Alabama’s beef cattle indsutry by following our Bama Beef Events Calendar online. You can check it on your phone out in the field or view it on your computer after a long day of work. It’s got all the info about upcoming sales, Extension workshops, BQA certifications, Cattlemen’s events…all of it! Check it out by clicking here.

You can also stay in-the-know by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For our Snapchatters out there, soon enough you’ll be able to add our Snapchat handle to follow events. (*hint hint* Convention!)

YCLP CLASS IV NOMINATIONS- NOW OPEN!

Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program (YCLP) applications are now posted on the website at www.bamabeef.org/YCLP. This program is for cattlemen between 21-40 years of age who are interested in getting more involved in the ACA and knowledgeable about the industry. For more information or if you’re ready to submit an application, send them along to Erin at the office.

60th ANNUAL SLE RODEO- March 16-18

Save the dates and purchase your tickets today! We’ve got a big show headed to Montgomery’s Garrett Coliseum, and you’re not gonna want to miss it. We’ve got the PRCA’s best bucking stock, PRCA Freestyle Bullfighting and Alabama-bred rodeo entertainer Trent McFarland coming your way for a night of thrill and laughter.

Bring the little ones down to see the best show on dirt. We’ll even let them play on the dirt during the Stick Horse Rodeo before each nightly performance. Thursday night- kids 12 and under enter FREE while Friday night, families can purchase four tickets for only $40. That’s cheaper than a movie, folks, and a whole lot more entertaining!

The SLE staff is busy selling tickets, getting sponsorships and marketing the event. Pretty soon a new commercial will be hitting television screens, while posters and banners are being printed.

We can’t wait to see you there- call us today to purchase your tickets at 1-888-2RODEO2 and learn more about the rodeo’s many events by vising the SLE Rodeo website.

COWBOY COOKOFF REGISTRATION

Cowboy Cookoff registration is open online, and we are recruiting teams to participate in the steak cookoff on Saturday, March 18 in conjunction with the SLE Rodeo. Contact Erin with any questions and click here to view rules and registration information.

What’s Going On Wednesday: January 25, 2017

While our cattlemen are busy keeping cattle fed through the ups-and-downs of this temperamental weather, your state ACA staff is busy planning our upcoming Convention, making preparations to attend the NCBA convention next week and getting rodeo plans finalized…all while maintaining the day-to-day office tasks. It’s a busy time to be in the cattle business, but it’s always a good time.

Keep reading to follow all that’s going on around the Cattlemen’s Building this week.

CAPITAL CITY STAMPEDE- 74TH ANNUAL ACA CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW

Convention is only 21 days away, and it’s doors are open to anyone!! Make sure to get registered (or call 265-1867) and to book your hotel room at the Renaissance Hotel and Montgomery Convention Center before the Cattlemen’s Block rates end THIS FRIDAY, January 27. You can book your hotel now through this link or by calling 334-481-5000 and ask for the Cattlemen’s Block using the mini code “CAT.”

We’ve got an outstanding lineup of speakers, Cattlemen’s Colleges and other family fun events, including our SOLD OUT Trade Show. Just in case you need any convincing to register today, here’s a few things you don’t want to miss out on:

(1) Outstanding Speakers
We have three headliner speakers this year. The first is 10-year veteran of CattleFax, Chad Spearman, who will be talking about “what lies ahead for the cattle market.” The Colorado State University graduate will discuss weather predictions and cattle price outlooks during one of the Convention’s sessions. Next on the lineup is NCBA’s Senior VP of Global Marketing and Research Alisa Harrison. Alisa comes with vast experience in the worlds of beef retail marketing and public relations, and she will be discussing marketing beef in a challenging environment. Last but certainly not least, NCBA Past President Steve Foglesong who is now serving as a member of President-Elect Donald Trump’s agricultural advisory team. He will be discussing what to expect from Washington D.C. under the Trump Administration. Read More about our keynote speakers by visiting our Facebook Event Page.

(2) A SOLD OUT Trade Show
If you’ve got business that needs to be taken care of for the betterment of your farm, it can probably be handled at our trade show. We’ve got over 65 national, state and local vendors bringing everything from heavy farm machinery, off-road vehicles, cattle working facilities, insurance, breed associations, nutrition and nutritional supplements…it’ll all be at our trade show for you to see and learn about.

(3) An Array of Cattlemen’s Colleges and Speakers
We’ve got four Zoetis Cattlemen’s Colleges coming your way at this year’s convention. Check them out:

“Coping With Drought: Forage Management Strategies and Nutritional Needs for Winter Grazing” led by Dr. Kim Mullenix, AU Beef Cattle Specialist
“Producing the Right King of Cattle and Marketing Strategies for Top Dollar” panel led by Jerry Etheredge, LMA president; Gene Lowry, JBS Feedlot; Jim Sealy, Alabama Livestock Market; Darryl Stokes, Montgomery Stockyard.
“Effective Estate Planning and Reducing Tax Burdens” by ACES Specialists Ken Kelley and Robert Page
“Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Training and Update” by Dr. Soren Rodning, Auburn Extension Veterinarian

Also, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, Del Marsh, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mac McCutcheon, will address the Board of Directors during their luncheon on Wednesday to update them on the Legislative Session that will be underway. Dr. Powell is meeting with these two today to discuss topics that cattlemen would most enjoy learning about.

(4) Family Fun and Networking
There will be no shortage of networking at the convention’s many meetings and throughout the trade show. We also are offering family fun at the Wednesday night “Rotational Grazing” event where families can enjoy social time with good food and music provided by the Good Ol’ Boys, aka Ed Whatley’s crew! To wrap up Convention, the Sweet Young’uns will open up the dance floor with over 50 years of musical entertainment experience!

We will also be taking care of some business at convention! We are very excited to award 51 deserving scholarship recipients representing over $60,000 at the Thursday evening Awards Banquet. Voting is also now underway for five outstanding nominees for the Alabama Livestock Hall of Fame. We look forward to learning about who our newest inductee(s) are!

MEMBERSHIP, COUNTY MEETINGS AND A JOHN DEERE GATOR

A few notes from the Membership Office:

“Over the Top” Deadline – All membership needs to be in the state office or postmarked by February 28^th to qualify for “Over the Top” awards.
Several counties have entered membership but have not yet sent payment. This is a reminder that membership is processed when payment is received at the state office, so get that check sent in!
Following your county meeting, send us your new officers so we can update them in our system! Simply email them to Jessica.

John Deere Gator Information: YOU can win a John Deere Gator XUV 560 one of two ways…

Recruit a new member, and their name as well as your name is entered. For each new member you recruit, that’s an extra chance, so recruit, recruit, recruit!
Buy a raffle ticket! Tickets sales kick off to ACA MEMBERS at the ACA Convention and Trade Show on Feb. 15-16. Members can purchase one ticket for $10 or three for $20. Did we mention that the Gator is a $10,000 value…

Ag Coalition

The Ag Coalition is back in order in preparation of the upcoming Legislative Session kicking off February 7 in Downtown Montgomery. The Ag Coalition, made up of representatives from the ACA, the Alabama Department of Agriculture, the Alabama Farmers Federation, the Alabama Poultry and Egg Industry, Alabama Forestry Association and Alabama Agribusiness Council, monitors activity that could have an effect on the agricultural industry in the state of Alabama. This group works together to protect the interests of Alabama’s farmers.

This week, their meeting consisted of discussing certain bills that are expected to arise that are linked animal activist groups. These bills will continue to be monitored along with the discussions on gas taxes, prisons and Medicaid. The group anticipates the Legislature to “hold off” on some of these topics in order to follow the lead of the Trump Administration.

Feral Hog Issue

It’s no secret that feral hogs are an issue in the state of Alabama. Today, ACA Director of Industry Relations and Youth Activities Matthew Pounds is meeting with the Department of Ag, the Department of Conservation, the Wildlife Federation and other organizations representing landowners to discuss programs for controlling and/or eradicating feral swine. Auburn University has done extensive research on this topic and are reporting on this research.

Sysco Gulf Coast

Erin spent the day last Friday at Sysco Gulf Coast Geneva where top salesmen were awarded cash prizes for their beef sales in December through January. One prize was given to the salesmen who sold the most beef and the other was given to the salesmen with the largest percent growth. Overall, this promotion generated an increase of over 25,000 lbs. of beef compared to the same time last year. These promotions are a great use of checkoff dollars.

Distinguished Young Women at ACA

The Distinguished Young Women of AL had their annual luncheon at the cattlemen’s building last Thursday. It was great to host this large group of young leaders and teach them more about the beef industry. They enjoyed a great steak and spent time in The MOOseum. Several participants had parents and grandparents who are members of the ACA. Recognize anyone? Pictured L-R are ACA Executive VP Dr. Billy Powell. Anne Walton Herston, Lauderdale County, Tagged for Greatness scholarship recipient and Lauderdale County Junior Cattleman; Railey Ayers, Crenshaw; Ashleigh McCool, Pickens; Elizabeth Anne Buford, Wilcox; Darby Hines, Tallapoosa and ACA Director of Industry Relations and Youth Activities Matthew Pounds.

YCLP CLASS IV NOMINATIONS UNDERWAY

The Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program (YCLP) applications are now posted on the website at www.bamabeef.org/YCLP. This program is for cattlemen between 21-40 years of age who are interested in getting more involved in the ACA and knowledgeable about the industry. For more information or if you’re ready to submit an application, send them along to Erin at the office.

COWBOY COOKOFF REGISTRATION

THE VIEW FROM ACCOUNTING

This week, ACA Director of Accounting Cynthia Dondrea, ACA Treasuer LD Fitzpatrick and ACA Executive Vice President Dr. Billy Powell are working with Carr, Riggs & Ingram on the annual audit of the General Fund, National and State Checkoff and Foundation. They are also working on year-end tax reporting and officially closing the books on 2016. This information will be reported on at the next Board Meeting.

National Cattlemen’s Convention- Next Week

If you call next week, you might find many of the staff out of the office as we will be in Nashville, TN attending the 2017 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. We’re excited to have quite the impressive list of Alabama attendees and encourage Alabamians to use our Trade Show Booth #1392 as a gathering place! It’ll be a packed and busy three days as staff will be attending receptions, checkoff meetings and federation meetings, and cattlemen will be attending the many outstanding Cattlemen’s Colleges, the gigantic Trade Show and the fun events in the evening. Hey, speaking of Cattlemen’s Colleges, we’re proud that our ACA President-Elect Richard Meadows will be a panelists at one…great!

Stay tuned for photos and updates from the big event. We look forward to seeing all our Alabama Cattlemen there, and we pray for traveling mercies for everyone heading north.

SLE RODEO- DON’T MISS IT!

We are also getting ready for the 60th annual, star-studded SLE Rodeo! Activities and meetings are underway to finalize advertising, corporate sponsorships, facilities, scheduling and the Junior Beef Expo. The talk of a new television commercial and an extra special entertainment act are also underway.

Ticket sales are also underway- have you purchased yours yet? Purchase them today by visiting slerodeo.com or calling 1-888-2RODEO2. We can’t wait to see you there!

Thanks for reading this week’s post! We’ll be back next week- same time, same place. Until then, stay in touch with us by following us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Have a great week and don’t forget to register for Convention and purchase your SLE Rodeo tickets!

What’s Going On Wednesday: January 18, 2017

Whew, it’s another warm one out…not a typical thing to say in the middle of January, but it’s what we all can expect with living in Alabama. It’s safe to assume that our cattlemen would probably prefer working in 70-degree weather versus freezing temps anyway, right?

The weird weather certainly isn’t the only thing happening right now. We are gearing up for our busiest time of year. February and March are SLAM PACKED with events and activities including our State Convention, National Convention and the SLE Rodeo. Your state staff is busy handling all the fine details of those events while still managing the day-to-day tasks that come across our desks at the office. Keep reading to learn what’s going on at the ACA this week…

CAPITAL CITY STAMPEDE- 74TH ANNUAL ACA CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW

You may recognize this article because we keep posting it each week. That’s because it’s all the same info that we intend to keep reminding our producers and county leaders about. We want to see you at Convention, so don’t dawdle…register now!

Convention is only 28 days away!! Make sure to get registered (or call 265-1867) and to book your hotel room at the Renaissance Hotel and Montgomery Convention Center before the Cattlemen’s Block rates end on January 27. You can book your hotel now through this link or by calling 334-481-5000 and ask for the Cattlemen’s Block using the mini code “CAT.”

There are so many great reasons to register today and head on down to Montgomery February 15-16 to the ACA Convention & Trade Show. Just in case you need convincing, here’s the rundown…

(3) An Array of Cattlemen’s Colleges and Speakers
We’ve got four Zoetis Cattlemen’s Colleges coming your way at this year’s convention. Check them out:

“Coping With Drought: Forage Management Strategies and Nutritional Needs for Winter Grazing” led by Dr. Kim Mullenix, AU Beef Cattle Specialist
“Producing the Right King of Cattle and Marketing Strategies for Top Dollar” panel led by Jerry Etheredge, LMA president; Gene Lowry, JBS Feedlot; Jim Sealy, Alabama Livestock Market; Darryl Stokes, Montgomery Stockyard.
“Effective Estate Planning and Reducing Tax Burdens” by ACES Specialists Ken Kelley and Robert Page
“Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Training and Update” by Dr. Soren Rodning, Auburn Extension Veterinarian

(4) Beef…of course…
That’s pretty simple. The meals with be worth the trip alone!

(5) Family Fun and Networking
There will be no shortage of networking at the convention’s many meetings and throughout the trade show. We also are offering family fun at the Wednesday night “Rotational Grazing” event where families can enjoy social time with good food and music provided by the Good Ol’ Boys, aka Ed Whatley’s crew! To wrap up Convention, the Sweet Young’uns will open up the dance floor with over 50 years of musical entertainment experience!

Membership, County Meetings and a John Deere Gator

Counties across the state are hosting annual meetings, and ACA officers and staff are working to attend each and every one! Many staffers and staff officers enjoyed attending the many county meetings that occurred last weekend and were excited to see the scholarships given, awards presented and to meet and mingle with producers from across the state. Not to mention the great steak dinners we were all able to enjoy! Elmore County even hosted National FFA Southern Region Vice President Abbey Gretsch to speak and hosted over 60 youth at their meeting! Kudos to Elmore County!! Unfortunately, we can’t be there if you don’t let us know, so send your upcoming county meeting information to Jessica Kennedy at the state office. If you need ACA trinkets such as tags, membership applications, place mats, napkins, etc for your meeting PLEASE let Jessica know ASAP!

A few notes from the Membership Office:

“Over the Top” Deadline – All membership needs to be in the state office or postmarked by February 28^th to qualify for “Over the Top” awards.
The 2^nd Renewal Notice will go out by the end of the month so get payment in for pending membership!
Several counties have entered membership but have not yet sent payment. This is a reminder that membership is processed when payment is received at the state office, so get that check sent in!
Following your county meeting, send us your new officers so we can update them in our system! Simply email them to Jessica.

John Deere Gator Information: YOU can win a John Deere Gator XUV 560 one of two ways…

Recruit a new member, and their name as well as your name is entered. For each new member you recruit, that’s an extra chance, so recruit, recruit, recruit!
Buy a raffle ticket! Tickets sales kick off to ACA MEMBERS at the ACA Convention and Trade Show on Feb. 15-16. Members can purchase one ticket for $10 or three for $20. Did we mention that the Gator is a $10,000 value…

AG COALITION BACK IN ACTION

The Ag Coalition will reconvene shortly as the Opening Day for the 2017 Legislative Session is Tuesday, February 7. The Ag Coalition, made up of representatives from the ACA, the Alabama Department of Agriculture, the Alabama Farmers Federation, the Alabama Poultry and Egg Industry, Alabama Forestry Association and Alabama Agribusiness Council, monitors activity that could have an effect on the agricultural industry in the state of Alabama. This group works together to protect the interests of Alabama’s farmers.

DYW at ACA

Each year, the ACA has the distinct honor of hosting 67 of Alabama’s top teens. On Thursday, the ACA will open its doors to the Distinguished Young Women of Alabama for a luncheon, tour of The MOOseum and a presentation on the beef cattle industry in Alabama. These ladies are in the Capital City staying with host families as they prepare for their state pageant this weekend. DYW, formerly known as Jr. Miss, is a scholarship pageant based on brains rather than beauty. These high school seniors are smart, talented and serve as leaders in their schools and communities. ACA is pleased to have them by to fuel them up with protein before the big show!

YCLP CLASS IV NOMINATIONS UNDERWAY

Do you know a young cattlemen who is ready to step in your county association? If so, nominate them for the Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program (YCLP) Class IV. Applications are available now on BamaBeef.org/YCLP.

Cowboy Cookoff Registration

Spring Beef 101’s Lining Up

Spring BEEF 101 programs are being planned with culinary schools and
foodservice companies in the state. We plan to host between 4-6 programs in April for about 50 participants each time. Remember, if your county is interested in coming to a BEEF 101, contact Erin. Also, if you are interested in seeing what BEEF 101 is all about, we always like to have cattlemen along to say hello to participants.

The View From Accounting

This week, ACA Director of Accounting Cynthia Dondrea is working with Carr, Riggs & Ingram on the annual audit of the General Fund, National and State Checkoff and Foundation. She is also working on year-end tax reporting and officially closing the books on 2016. NCBA has executed a new software for National Checkoff reporting called BARN and Cynthia is also working to wrap her head around that new program. All the while, she’s keeping up with the normal association accounting!

SLE RODEO- DON’T MISS IT!

We are also getting ready for the 60th annual SLE Rodeo! Activities and meetings are underway to finalize advertising, corporate sponsorships, facilities, scheduling and the Junior Beef Expo. The Rodeo Committee is meeting this weekend at Dr. Billy Powell’s farm in Leroy to make final plans. It’s a busy time for the rodeo!

Ticket sales are also underway- have you purchased yours yet? Purchase them today by visiting slerodeo.com or calling 1-888-2RODEO2. We can’t wait to see you there!

What’s Going On Wednesday: January 11, 2017

Howdy from the Cattlemen’s Building in Downtown Montgomery! From freezing rain to springtime forecasts, this Alabama weather still has our heads spinning. Speaking of heads spinning, that’s the current state of your state officers and staff and we take on the busiest time of year! Convention planning, SLE Rodeo happenings, county meetings galore…there’s a lot going on! While all these happenings keep us worn out, we are always rejuvenated when we have the opportunity to hit the road and visit with Cattlemen from across the state at those county meetings and at the Convention. It’s busy no doubt, but it’s an exciting time as well!

Catch up on all things happening around the ACA this week by continuing to read our second update of the New Year…

CAPITAL CITY STAMPEDE- 74TH ANNUAL ACA CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW

Convention is only 35 days away!! Make sure to get registered (or call 265-1867) and to book your hotel room at the Renaissance Hotel and Montgomery Convention Center before the Cattlemen’s Block rates end on January 27. You can book your hotel now through this link or by calling 334-481-5000 and ask for the Cattlemen’s Block using the mini code “CAT.”

There are so many great reasons to register today and head on down to Montgomery February 15-16 to the ACA Convention & Trade Show. Just in case you need convincing, here’s the rundown…

(3) An Array of Cattlemen’s Colleges and Speakers
We’ve got four Zoetis Cattlemen’s Colleges coming your way at this year’s convention. Check them out:

“Coping With Drought: Forage Management Strategies and Nutritional Needs for Winter Grazing” led by Dr. Kim Mullenix, AU Beef Cattle Specialist
“Producing the Right King of Cattle and Marketing Strategies for Top Dollar” panel led by Jerry Etheredge, LMA president; Gene Lowry, JBS Feedlot; Jim Sealy, Alabama Livestock Market; Darryl Stokes, Montgomery Stockyard.
“Effective Estate Planning and Reducing Tax Burdens” by ACES Specialists Ken Kelley and Robert Page
“Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Training and Update” by Dr. Soren Rodning, Auburn Extension Veterinarian

Just confirmed! President Pro Tempore of the Senate Del Marsh and Speaker of the House of Representatives Mac McCutcheon will address the Board of Directors during their luncheon on Wednesday to update them on the Legislative Session that will be underway.

(4) Beef…of course…
That’s pretty simple. The meals with be worth the trip alone!

We will also be taking care of some business at convention! This week we sent letters to 51 deserving scholarship recipients representing over $60,000 in scholarships. We also Sent a ballot with five outstanding nominees for the Alabama Livestock Hall of Fame to living members of the HOF for voting. We look forward to learning about who our newest inductee(s) are!

Cullman County Hay Relief

We’re please to report that one of our county chapters has stepped up to
the plate to address the critical hay shortage in Cullman County. The Cullman County Cattlemen’s Association worked to help set up a local hay relief effort for cattle located in Cullman County. The groups involved are Cullman County Commission, local branch of Alabama Soil and Water Conservation, Cullman County Cattlemen’s, Alabama Farmers Federation, the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Cullman County Farm Service Agency. The following are the steps involved in making this a reality for the cattle producers.

A committee of representatives from groups involved was formed to organize the relief efforts.
Cullman County Commissioner issued a grant of $12000 to the local branch of Alabama Soil and Water Conservation to be used in the transportation of hay to the Cullman Ag Center.
Cullman County Cattlemen’s put up $5000 to purchase hay and Cullman County Farmers Federation matched the allotment.
With this funding, committee representatives organized transport and the purchase of hay to be delivered to Cullman Ag Center to be dispersed to producers who qualify.
Local FSA agreed to take the applications.
Cattle must be located in the county, users will pay for hay at affordable rate and are to pick up hay from the Cullman Ag Center.
Call Dr. Slaten for information on how he and his group got this project put into action for Cullman County. (334) 467-5043

We are pleased that our largest county (by cattle numbers) has taken this charge and are hopeful that other counties will follow this example to provide hay relief across the state. We appreciate Past RVP Dr. Terry Slaten for being the driving force behind this program and thank him for his continued leadership.

Northwest Alabamians Head South

We look forward when RVP Brian Smith of Lauderdale County will bring leaders from six northwest counties to the Cattlemen’s Building in Montgomery. They will tour the building and discuss ACA’s role and how county chapters are a vital part of our success. We commend Brian and ACA Vice President Jack Batts on organizing this trip, and we encourage other RVPs and counties to do the same! We’ll even provide lunch!

E.S.T.F.A.I. Program in Shorter

It didn’t take long for ACA’s new Director of Industry Relations and Youth Activities Matthew Pounds to get out of the office to attend workshops. On Tuesday, Matthew found himself in Shorter where he listened in on the Estrus Synchronization and Fixed Time Artificial Insemination Program lead by Regional Extension Agent Josh Elmore, Extension Veterinarian Dr. Soren Rodning and Beef Unit Manager Rob Peacock.

County Annual Meeting Season

Counties across the state are hosting annual meetings, and ACA officers and staff are working to attend each and every one! We can’t be there if you don’t let us know, so send your upcoming county meeting information to Jessica Kennedy at the state office. If you need ACA trinkets such as tags, membership applications, placemats, napkins, etc for your meeting PLEASE let Jessica know ASAP!

A few notes from the Membership Office:

“Over the Top” Deadline – All membership needs to be in the state office or postmarked by February 28^th to qualify for “Over the Top” awards.
The 2^nd Renewal Notice will go out by the end of the month so get payment in for pending membership!
Several counties have entered membership but have not yet sent payment. This is a reminder that membership is processed when payment is received at the state office, so get that check sent in!
Following your county meeting, send us your new officers so we can update them in our system! Simply email them to Jessica.

Ag Coalition Back in Action

YCLP Class IV Nominations Underway

SLE Rodeo- Don’t Miss It!

We are also getting ready for the 60th annual SLE Rodeo! Activities and meetings are underway to finalize advertising, corporate sponsorships, facilities, scheduling and the Junior Beef Expo. We will meet with the rodeo committee next week to finalize plans. It’s a busy time for the rodeo!

Ticket sales are also underway- have you purchased yours yet? Purchase them today by visiting slerodeo.com or calling 1-888-2RODEO2. We can’t wait to see you there!

Thanks for reading this week’s post! We’ll be back, same time, same place next week for this year’s third weekly update. Until then, stay in touch with us by following us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Have a great week and don’t forget to register for Convention and purchase your SLE Rodeo tickets!