Beef on a Budget— Steak Swaps & Ground Beef

If you’re trying to keep your family fed this summer without running up a tab at the supermarket, beef can be your go-to for budget-friendly, easy meals.

By Elesha Ergle, RDN

Just when you think it can’t get any hotter and sweatier, a trip to the grocery store has you sweating even more. If you’re trying to keep your family fed this summer without running up a tab at the supermarket, beef can be your go-to for budget-friendly, easy meals. With 25 grams of protein per 3 ounce serving, beef is a versatile, nutrition power-house that can fit any tastes or budgets. 

Do you have any favorite beefy go-tos for your family? In our house we keep ground beef on-hand for quick, easy, nutritious meals. Ground beef’s versatility makes it the easy way to keep your family going. Buying ground beef in larger quantities is a great way to stock up and save money. Portion out your bulk beef in freezer bags or container in 1-2 pound packages, and keep frozen for up to 6 months. When you are in need of some for a recipe and it’s still frozen, there are a number of thaw/cook instructions to help you get it done;  Electric Pressure Cookers (Instant Pot), stove top, or even grilling. Some of our family’s favorite ground beef recipes include: Beefy Sweet and Sloppy Joes, Cheeseburger Sliders, tacos, and spaghetti. 

Steaks are one of the most coveted of beef cuts, and those of us who love beef probably have a favorite that is our go-to for grilling. When steaks are mentioned, your mind probably goes to a delicious ribeye, filet, or T-bone, but there are plenty of other cuts of beef that pair perfectly with grilling flames. Flat iron steaks, tri-tip roasts, skirt & flank steaks can all be grilled for delicious beef-filled meals. If a steak is what you’re craving but store prices have you making other decisions, Beef It’s What’s For Dinner has a guide to some perfect, money-saving steak swaps that will keep your steak dreams alive. 

Beef’s great versatility means there are plenty of options for every taste and budget. www.BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com

Some stores may be stocking some of the more lesser known cuts of beef at lower prices. If you come across a sale on some of these trendy cuts, and are not sure how to prepare them, give Google a go to find some great recipes that may become some of your favorites. 

Beef’s versatility can keep you fed this summer while maintaining your family’s budget! Beef It’s What’s for Dinner has you covered with more beef cut information, recipes, grilling tips and techniques, food safety, and information on beef from pasture to plate.

Be safe, stay cool, and eat more beef! Happy Summer to everyone!

Bama Beef Blog Weekly Update | July 20, 2022

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!


Membership # of the Day: 9,233

Welcome, Reid!

Reid McGuire recently joined the ACA to serve as Director of Field Services— the position left vacant by Morgan Desselle. McGuire, a native of Waverly, AL grew up participating in the Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association (AJCA), including serving on the AJCA Board of Directors. He is a graduate of Oklahoma State University where he participated in the Livestock Judging Team. Most recently, McGuire has worked in sales with Gallagher. His job with the ACA will include managing the Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association and the Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program (YCLP), executing producer checkoff programming and representing the association at cattle industry events across the state. Be sure to say hi next time you see him out and about!

Round-Up Recap!

The 16th Annual AJCA Round-Up is in the books! The Round-Up is more than a calf show. There are multiple educational contest that happen throughout the weekend. The fun kick off on Thursday as youth and families join us in the Teague and Lewis barns for food and entertainment— including bouncy houses and a volleyball tournament. Friday was full of contests, from grooming, sales talk, and cooking competitions— we had it all! Saturday and Sunday brought the Market Show, Showmanship Contest and Breeding Heifer Show.

We would like to thank all the hands that played a part in making sure this weekend was a success for the youth! This event would not be possible without the sponsors and volunteers! We would also like to congratulate all the exhibitors on their achievements throughout the weekend! 

Junior Board of Directors & Officers

President, District 2: Russell Jordan, Clay County

Vice President. District 1: Abby Burgess, Blount County

Treasurer, At-Large: Rex Harrison, Cullman County

Secretary, District 4: Alyvia Watson, Mobile County

Ex-Officio: Corley Williams, Marshall County

District 1: Amelia Thrower, Marshall County

District 2: Lyndee Meadows, Randolph County

District 3: Gus Ashley, Montgomery County

District 3: Ashbee Norman, Montgomery County

District 4: Annabelle Wesley, Pike County

At-Large: Faith Dillard, Geneva County

Congratulations to the Top 5 Prospect Market Animals:

Grand Champion Prospect Market Animal – Gus Ashley of Montgomery County

Reserve Champion Prospect Market Animal – Jewel Thompson of Lee County

Third Overall Prospect Market Animal – Carson Fallin of Blount County

Fourth Overall Prospect Market Animal – Wyatt Johnston of Pike County

Fifth Overall Prospect Market Animal – Abbeigh Jo Gibson of Washington County

Congratulations to the Top Progress Market Animals:

Grand Champion Progress Market Animal: Victoria Thompson of Lee County

Reserve Champion Progress Market Animal: Greer Jones of Pike County

Congratulations to the Top 5 Showmen in Each Division

Senior Top 5:

Shelby Oglesby, Jewel Thompson, Victoria Thompson, Abbeigh Jo Gibson and Audra Graves

Intermediate Top 5:

Sara Faust, Rex Harrison, Ashbee Norman, Annabelle Wesley and Gus Ashley

Junior Top 5

Claire Smith, Laura-Landers Franklin, Brooklyn Price, Hudson Thornton and Jessi Maples

Congratulations to the Top 5 Breeding Heifers

Supreme Champion Breeding Heifer – Annabelle Wesley of Pike County

Reserve Champion Breeding Heifer – Camden Upchurch of Clay County

Third Overall Breeding Heifer – Jewel Thompson of Lee County

Fourth Overall Breeding Heifer – Evan Rodeo of Cullman County

Fifth Overall Breeding Heifer –  Amelia Thrower of Marshall County

Congratulations to the Top 5 Bred & Owned Breeding Heifers

Supreme Champion Bred & Owned Breeding Heifer – Audra Graves of Blount County

Reserve Champion Bred & Owned Breeding Heifer – Avery Ruf of Limestone County

Third Overall Bred & Owned Breeding Heifer – Jessi Maples of Lee County

Fourth Overall Bred & Owned Breeding Heifer – Victoria Thompson of Lee County

Fifth Overall Bred & Owned Breeding Heifer – Eliza Downey of Autauga County

2022 REGIONAL CATTLEMEN’S COOKOUTS

We have enjoyed delicious food, fun giveaways and some very welcomed fellowship at the first five of our Regional Cattlemen’s Cookouts in Grove Hill, Troy, Moundville, Wetumpka and Moulton. Last but certainly not least is the Northeast Alabama meeting in Guntersville and the Recreation Center on August 2 at 6pm— we’d love to see you there! Click here for a map to check out when we’ll be headed to your neck of the woods! This event is FREE for ACA members to attend— all you have to do is click here to RSVP to attend your local meeting or call us at 334-265-1867. Guests who are not members will cost $25 per plate.

Talkin’ Beef

ACA Director of Education & Outreach Ali Cantrell will be speaking at the ALACTE Conference in Mobile on Thursday to Family and Consumer Science teachers. She will be highlighting the Beef 101 programs that we offer as well as discussing the 2023 Alabama Junior & Senior High School Beef Cook-off. This contest will be held on April 14, 2023 at Jefferson State Community College.

Next week, Ali will travel to Destin on Monday and Tuesday to attend the Alabama Grocers Association Convention. She will be hosting a booth in the trade show and talking with retailers about how the beef checkoff can help their business and educate their employees about their products.

STOCKMANSHIP & STEWARDSHIP- COMING TO AUBURN!

Mark your calendars for August 12-13, 2022, to partake in the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) premiere Stockmanship & Stewardship educational experience at the Auburn University Equestrian Center.

Register Now » https://www.stockmanshipandstewardship.org/events/auburn-al

The program will feature low-stress cattle handling demonstrations, Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Educational certification, facility design sessions, industry updates and your choice of additional specialized education. The program sponsored by the NCBA, Merck Animal Health, and the Beef Checkoff-funded National Beef Quality Assurance program will allow attendees the opportunity to participate in educational sessions, a local beef cattle tour and a valuable networking reception.

Attendees will learn cutting-edge operation techniques through demonstrations by stockmanship experts Curt Pate and Dr. Ron Gill. Cattle enthusiasts will have the option to participate in Auburn’s Beef 201 program offering education in feeder grading, value-added marketing concepts, evaluation of harvest ready cattle, fabrication of carcasses combined with economic analysis, and off the farm locally produced niche market opportunities. Additionally, participants will be offered sessions on various topics including best-practices in nutrition and Southeast U.S. forage management, tools for improved sustainability, current herd health management concepts, beef advocacy training, and a unique program designed for teen junior cattlemen members.

  • Full Registration ($100) – Access to all events & meals.
  • One Day Registrations (Friday $30, Saturday $80) – Access to events on specified day only.
  • Student Registration ($50) – Access to all events & meals with student ID

BAMA BEEF EVENTS CALENDAR

The Bama Beef Events Calendar (www.BamaBeef.org/Events) is beginning to fill up with activities as we look toward the fall months. The Producer Education tab has been updated recently, as well as the Cattlemen’s Activities. As we get closer to fall, all of the tabs (especially the sales!) will start to fill up, so check it daily to make sure you don’t miss an event near you!

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

Bama Beef Blog Weekly Update | July 6, 2022

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!


CONGRATS, over the top counties!

Big CONGRATULATIONS are due to the 27 counties who went Over the Top in 2022! This is the grassroots activity of our association that makes it one of the largest and most effective in the country, and we thank you for all your hard work and recruitment efforts! Without further adieu, the 27 Over the Top counties in 2022 are:

  • Baldwin
  • Barbour
  • Butler
  • Calhoun
  • Chambers
  • Clay
  • Coosa
  • Cullman
  • Dale
  • Dallas
  • Elmore
  • Fayette
  • Franklin
  • Geneva
  • Greene
  • Hale
  • Henry
  • Lauderdale
  • Lowndes
  • Madison
  • Monroe
  • Morgan
  • Randolph
  • St Clair
  • Sumter
  • Washington
  • Winston

2022 REGIONAL CATTLEMEN’S COOKOUTS

We have enjoyed delicious food, fun giveaways and some very welcomed fellowship at the first three of our Regional Cattlemen’s Cookouts in Grove Hill, Troy and Moundville. Up next is our East Central Alabama Cookout on July 12 in Wetumpka— we’d love to see you there! Click here for a map to check out when we’ll be headed to your neck of the woods! This event is FREE for ACA members to attend— all you have to do is click here to RSVP to attend your local meeting or call us at 334-265-1867. Guests who are not members will cost $25 per plate.

  • July 12, 2022: East Central Alabama; Wetumpka Civic Center, Wetumpka
  • July 19, 2022: Northwest Alabama, Moulton Rec Center, Moulton
  • August 2, 2022: Northeast Alabama, Guntersville Rec Center, Guntersville

STOCKMANSHIP & STEWARDSHIP- COMING TO AUBURN!

Mark your calendars for August 12-13, 2022, to partake in the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) premiere Stockmanship & Stewardship educational experience at the Auburn University Equestrian Center.

Register Now » https://www.stockmanshipandstewardship.org/events/auburn-al

The program will feature low-stress cattle handling demonstrations, Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Educational certification, facility design sessions, industry updates and your choice of additional specialized education. The program sponsored by the NCBA, Merck Animal Health, and the Beef Checkoff-funded National Beef Quality Assurance program will allow attendees the opportunity to participate in educational sessions, a local beef cattle tour and a valuable networking reception.

Attendees will learn cutting-edge operation techniques through demonstrations by stockmanship experts Curt Pate and Dr. Ron Gill. Cattle enthusiasts will have the option to participate in Auburn’s Beef 201 program offering education in feeder grading, value-added marketing concepts, evaluation of harvest ready cattle, fabrication of carcasses combined with economic analysis, and off the farm locally produced niche market opportunities. Additionally, participants will be offered sessions on various topics including best-practices in nutrition and Southeast U.S. forage management, tools for improved sustainability, current herd health management concepts, beef advocacy training, and a unique program designed for teen junior cattlemen members.

  • Full Registration ($100) – Access to all events & meals.
  • One Day Registrations (Friday $30, Saturday $80) – Access to events on specified day only.
  • Student Registration ($50) – Access to all events & meals with student ID

AJCA ROUND-UP SPONSORSHIPS

The 16th Annual Round-Up is coming to town NEXT WEEK! We are proud to report that 120 youth participants are registered for this summer event featuring calf shows, cattle judging, career-centered contests, a volleyball tournament, and more! Events like this are not possible without sponsorships. We are asking counties to consider a donation of $250.00. The counties that show their support of our youth by sponsoring at the amount of $250.00 or more will receive a star on the county sponsorship map that will be on display ringside. However, anyway you can support our juniors would be appreciated. Please consider supporting the AJCA Round-Up. It is requested that all donations be mailed to 201 South Bainbridge Street, Montgomery, AL 36104. Thank you in advance for your continued support of Alabama’s youth in livestock.

For the full sponsor details, please check out our event website » https://cvent.me/KRGM5z  

Alabama LMA Meets on the Coast

The Alabama Livestock Marketing Association (ALMA) met this week in Orange Beach, Alabama as all auction yards across the state were closed for the week of Fourth of July. ACA Executive Vice President Erin Beasley attended the meeting to network with market owners, provide an association update and hear market news on the state and national level.

The MOOseum, Staying Busy!

The MOOseum, the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association premiere children’s educational center, has stayed busy this summer hosting thousands of walk-up guests and scheduled tour groups. This week alone will host three summer children’s groups, and that’s not to mention all the walk-in visitors! Sydney Dougherty on our staff does an excellent job promoting and organizing tours.

The MOOseum — which highlights the beef cattle life cycle, history of the beef industry in Alabama, cattle handling, cattle nutrition, rodeo and beef cookery stations— is a great, air conditioned stop for Downtown sojourners looking to explore Alabama history, while catching a break from the Alabama heat! It continues to be an excellent avenue to educate young minds to the big picture behind the food on their plate.

Bama Beef Events Calendar

The Bama Beef Events Calendar (www.BamaBeef.org/Events) is beginning to fill up with activities as we look toward the fall months. The Producer Education tab has been updated recently, as well as the Cattlemen’s Activities. As we get closer to fall, all of the tabs (especially the sales!) will start to fill up, so check it daily to make sure you don’t miss an event near you!

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

Bama Beef Blog Update | June 29, 2022

Bama Beef Blog Update | June 29, 2022

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!


2022 REGIONAL CATTLEMEN’S COOKOUTS

We have enjoyed delicious food, fun giveaways and some very welcomed fellowship at our first two Regional Cattlemen’s Cookouts. Up next is our West Central Alabama Cookout on TOMORROW in Moundville— we’d love to see you there! Click here for a map to check out when we’ll be headed to your neck of the woods! This event is FREE for ACA members to attend— all you have to do is click here to RSVP to attend your local meeting or call us at 334-265-1867. Guests who are not members will cost $25 per plate. 

  • June 30, 2022: West Central Alabama; Gvillo Lodge, Moundville
  • July 12, 2022: East Central Alabama; Wetumpka Civic Center, Wetumpka
  • July 19, 2022: Northwest Alabama, Moulton Rec Center, Moulton
  • August 2, 2022: Northeast Alabama, Guntersville Rec Center, Guntersville

Big Fun at the Bainbridge Block Party

Last week, we hosted a successful Bainbridge Block Party with nearly 200 people attending. This was an event to showcase the top three agriculture commodities in Alabama, which all happen to have their trade organizations headquartered in downtown Montgomery on Bainbridge Street. Teachers were invited to come to the event to gain CEU hours and learn how they can best use incorporate materials and programs from Alabama agriculture commodity groups into their classrooms. About 20 teachers attended the day and joined in on the fellowship, food and fun!

SLE Summer Picnic

The Southeastern Livestock Exposition held a board meeting on June 25 to discuss exciting new ideas for the 2023 SLE Rodeo Livestock Week. After the board meeting, the membership and their families gathered to enjoy a low country boil, tailgate games and musical entertainment at the 2nd annual SLE Summer Picnic located at the new Pike Road Ag Center.

AJCA ROUND-UP Sponsorships

The 16th Annual Round-Up registration is now live! Join us July 14-17 at the Garrett Coliseum for a weekend packed full of educational events and cattle shows. We look forward to welcoming the youth of Alabama to compete and exhibit. Events like this are not possible without sponsorships. We are asking counties to consider a donation of $250.00. The counties that show their support of our youth by sponsoring at the amount of $250.00 or more will receive a star on the county sponsorship map that will be on display ringside. However, anyway you can support our juniors would be appreciated. Please consider supporting the AJCA Round-Up. It is requested that all donations be mailed to 201 South Bainbridge Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 by June 24, 2022. Thank you in advance for your continued support of Alabama’s youth in livestock.

For the full sponsor details, please check out our event website » https://cvent.me/KRGM5z  

Stockmanship & Stewardship- Coming to Auburn!

Mark your calendars for August 12-13, 2022, to partake in the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) premiere Stockmanship & Stewardship educational experience at the Auburn University Equestrian Center.

Register Now » https://www.stockmanshipandstewardship.org/events/auburn-al

The program will feature low-stress cattle handling demonstrations, Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Educational certification, facility design sessions, industry updates and your choice of additional specialized education. The program sponsored by the NCBA, Merck Animal Health, and the Beef Checkoff-funded National Beef Quality Assurance program will allow attendees the opportunity to participate in educational sessions, a local beef cattle tour and a valuable networking reception.

Attendees will learn cutting-edge operation techniques through demonstrations by stockmanship experts Curt Pate and Dr. Ron Gill. Cattle enthusiasts will have the option to participate in Auburn’s Beef 201 program offering education in feeder grading, value-added marketing concepts, evaluation of harvest ready cattle, fabrication of carcasses combined with economic analysis, and off the farm locally produced niche market opportunities. Additionally, participants will be offered sessions on various topics including best-practices in nutrition and Southeast U.S. forage management, tools for improved sustainability, current herd health management concepts, beef advocacy training, and a unique program designed for teen junior cattlemen members.

  • Full Registration ($100) – Access to all events & meals.
  • One Day Registrations (Friday $30, Saturday $80) – Access to events on specified day only.
  • Student Registration ($50) – Access to all events & meals with student ID

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

We are headed boldly in the direction of 10,000 members, and don’t forget that June 30 Over the Top Red Coat deadline! CONGRATS to Barbour, Butler, Cullman, Dale, Dallas, Elmore, Franklin, Geneva, Hale, Henry, Lauderdale, Lowndes, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair and Washington counties for already going Over the Top— and stay tuned for the FINAL list following tomorrow’s deadline! If you are hosting an annual meeting or summertime event, please contact Jessica Kennedy at our office to let her know OR complete this online form to notify us of your meeting, assign a mailout, and request a guest speaker. As always, leaders, we encourage you to enter new members and renewals by the 15th of each month to guarantee they stay on the magazine distribution list and to deposit checks in a timely manner. Also, PLEASE send county leader updates to the state office so we can update them for future mailings, emails, etc. Contact Jessica to let her know who your county officers are!

Talkin’ Beef Cattle

On Tuesday, staffer Ali Cantrell took the steer trailer to Payne Elementary in Selma, AL. She spoke to first through fifth graders about the importance of the beef industry and how cattlemen care for their animals.

On Wednesday, Kayla Greer visited the studio of The Land Show, hosted by Jonathan Goode of Southeastern Land Group, as she spoke about upcoming ACA events, the local beef niche market, and detailed out the Down to Earth campaign. Be sure to tune in on Saturday morning to hear the 20-minute interview!

Fourth of July Recipes

To find great recipes for the Fourth of July holiday, visit tinyurl.com/GrillingFavorites. Here’s one that caught our eye for Mushroom Swiss Burgers with Jalapeño Aioli— yum!

INGREDIENTS:
  • 1 Pound Ground Beef (93% lean)
  • 2 tsp steak seasoning blend
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 5 oz sliced baby portobello mushrooms
  • 4 Swiss cheese slices
  • 4 hamburger buns, split
  • 4 lettuce leaves
  • 4 tomatoes slices

Jalapeno Aioli

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 jalapeno peppers
  • 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp fresh lime juice
  1. Combine Ground Beef and 2 tsp. steak seasoning in large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Lightly shape into four 1/2-inch thick patties. Set aside 
  2. Heat sauté pan over medium until hot. Add olive oil and mushrooms, Cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.     
  3. Place patties on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 8 to 10 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 7 to 9 minutes) until instant-read thermometer inserted horizontally into center registers 160°F, turning occasionally. About 2 minutes before burgers are done, place buns, cut sides down, on grid. Grill until lightly toasted. During last minute of grilling, top each burger with cheese slice.
JALAPENO AIOLI
  1. Place jalapeno on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill for 5 to 6 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill). Remove from grill and let cool. Once cool remove the stem and seeds, dice into 1/4 inch cubes.  
  2. In a medium size bowl combine mayo, grilled jalapeno, lime juice, and salt. Set aside.
BURGER BUILD
  1. Line top bun with 1 – 2 Tbsp. of Aioli mixture, Lettuce, and tomato. Top each burger with mushrooms and place them on bottom buns. Close the sandwiches and serve with a side.

Have a happy and safe Fourth of July holiday and ENJOY BEEF!

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

Bama Beef Blog Weekly Update | June 22, 2022

Bama Beef Blog Weekly Update | June 22, 2022

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!


BAINBRIDGE BLOCK PARTY

The staff of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Alabama Poultry and Egg Association, and Alabama Forestry Association would like to invite you to our Bainbridge Block Party on THIS Friday, June 24, 2022 at The MOOseum in downtown Montgomery. This event is meant to showcase the different ag commodities, associations, and entities within the state and how they can provide educational opportunities into your classrooms. All teachers that RSVP and attend will receive professional development hours and a certificate. Please RSVP to acantrell@bamabeef.org with your name and school by today, June 22.

We will be hosting a Sweet Grown Alabama Farmers market along with educational booths spread throughout. We encourage teachers, students, and the general public to come visit, tour The MOOseum, and head up to the 3rd floor of the building for specialty videos and booths to explore. This event will be open to the general public from 11:00am – 2:00pm and food will be served from 11:30am – 1:30pm. We will be serving burgers, chicken wings, chips, and ice cream from Blue Ribbon Dairy!

2022 REGIONAL CATTLEMEN’S COOKOUTS

We have enjoyed delicious food, fun giveaways and some very welcomed fellowship at our first two Regional Cattlemen’s Cookouts. Up next is our West Central Alabama Cookout on June 30 in Moundville— we’d love to see you there! Click here for a map to check out when we’ll be headed to your neck of the woods! This event is FREE for ACA members to attend— all you have to do is click here to RSVP to attend your local meeting or call us at 334-265-1867. Guests who are not members will cost $25 per plate. 

  • June 30, 2022: West Central Alabama; Gvillo Lodge, Moundville
  • July 12, 2022: East Central Alabama; Wetumpka Civic Center, Wetumpka
  • July 19, 2022: Northwest Alabama, Moulton Rec Center, Moulton
  • August 2, 2022: Northeast Alabama, Guntersville Rec Center, Guntersville

Stopping by Culinary Schools

On Tuesday, ACA Director of Education & Outreach Ali Cantrell traveled to Lawson State Community College to speak to culinary students about the beef industry. They are studying meat processing during the months of June and July, so this discussion helped explain the process of raising and fabricating beef. Ali is working with Lawson State to schedule a Beef 101 program this summer at the Auburn Meats Lab.

AJCA ROUND-UP REGISTRATION LIVE

The 16th Annual Round-Up registration is now live! Join us July 14-17 at the Garrett Coliseum for a weekend packed full of educational events and cattle shows. We look forward to welcoming the youth of Alabama to compete and exhibit. Events like this are not possible without sponsorships. We are asking counties to consider a donation of $250.00. The counties that show their support of our youth by sponsoring at the amount of $250.00 or more will receive a star on the county sponsorship map that will be on display ringside. However, anyway you can support our juniors would be appreciated. Please consider supporting the AJCA Round-Up. It is requested that all donations be mailed to 201 South Bainbridge Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 by June 24, 2022. Thank you in advance for your continued support of Alabama’s youth in livestock.

For the full sponsor details, please check out our event website » https://cvent.me/KRGM5z  

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

We are headed boldly in the direction of 10,000 members, and don’t forget that June 30 Over the Top Red Coat deadline! CONGRATS to Barbour, Butler, Cullman, Dale, Dallas, Elmore, Franklin, Geneva, Hale, Henry, Lauderdale, Lowndes, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair and Washington counties for already going Over the Top! If you are hosting an annual meeting or summertime event, please contact Jessica Kennedy at our office to let her know OR complete this online form to notify us of your meeting, assign a mailout, and request a guest speaker. As always, leaders, we encourage you to enter new members and renewals by the 15th of each month to guarantee they stay on the magazine distribution list and to deposit checks in a timely manner. Also, PLEASE send county leader updates to the state office so we can update them for future mailings, emails, etc. Contact Jessica to let her know who your county officers are!

Alabama Agribusiness Council

Erin and Sarah are currently attending the Alabama Agribusiness Conference at Fort Walton Beach where they have had the chance to network with and receive updates from industry leaders. Guest speakers covered topics including an Alabama Ag Economic Outlook, as well as an update on workforce training opportunities from a representative from the Alabama Workforce Development Initiatives. The second day of the conference was filled with ag education updates from Auburn University President Dr. Chris Roberts and Auburn University College of Agriculture Dean Dr. Paul Patterson. The conference concluded with a legislative outlook discussion panel. 

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

Bama Beef Blog Weekly Update | June 15, 2022

Bama Beef Blog Weekly Update | June 15, 2022

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!


2022 REGIONAL CATTLEMEN’S COOKOUTS

Last night hosted the second of six Regional Cattlemen’s Cookouts as we headed to Pike County for the Southeast Regional gathering. It was a great turnout with delicious food, fun giveaways and some very welcomed fellowship. Up next is our West Central Alabama Cookout on June 30 in Moundville— we’d love to see you there! Click here for a map to check out when we’ll be headed to your neck of the woods! This event is FREE for ACA members to attend— all you have to do is click here to RSVP to attend your local meeting or call us at 334-265-1867. Guests who are not members will cost $25 per plate. 

  • June 30, 2022: West Central Alabama; Gvillo Lodge, Moundville
  • July 12, 2022: East Central Alabama; Wetumpka Civic Center, Wetumpka
  • July 19, 2022: Northwest Alabama, Moulton Rec Center, Moulton
  • August 2, 2022: Northeast Alabama, Guntersville Rec Center, Guntersville

Tell the SEC to Stick to Wall Street, Not Main Street 

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is trying to expand their authority to family farms, ranches, and small businesses. The SEC is the federal agency tasked with regulating publicly traded companies and major investors on Wall Street, but recently the SEC proposed a rule with wide overreaching impacts on the cattle industry. The rule would require publicly traded companies to disclose greenhouse gas emissions from their entire supply chain. For large companies like retailers, packers, and restaurants, this rule could force cattle producers to calculate their farm or ranch-level emissions, while exposing them to legal liability. This is unacceptable. 

Cattle producers need to send a strong message to the SEC that we are united against this rule. That’s why the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association launched a grassroots letter directed at the Chairman of the SEC and members of Congress. Please click here to sign the letter todayand share with your friends, family, and fellow cattle producers. The more signatures, the better!

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

The second membership statement has hit mailboxes, targeting all non-renewed members for 2022! Hopefully you’ve started receiving some renewals. We are headed boldly in the direction of 10,000 members, and don’t forget that June 30 Over the Top Red Coat deadline! CONGRATS to Barbour, Butler, Dale, Dallas, Elmore, Franklin, Geneva, Hale, Henry, Lowndes, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair and Washington counties for already going Over the Top! If you are hosting an annual meeting or summertime event, please contact Jessica Kennedy at our office to let her know OR complete this online form to notify us of your meeting, assign a mailout, and request a guest speaker. As always, leaders, we encourage you to enter new members and renewals by the 15th of each month to guarantee they stay on the magazine distribution list and to deposit checks in a timely manner. Also, PLEASE send county leader updates to the state office so we can update them for future mailings, emails, etc. Contact Jessica to let her know who your county officers are!

Lights, Camera, Action!

ACA Director of Education & Outreach Ali Cantrell will film two cooking segments at WBRC in Birmingham on Thursday of this week. One of those cooking segments will star Abbey Grace Tuck, who won our Alabama Junior & Senior High School Beef Cookoff with her Rosemary Thyme Skillet Filet. These segments will air this summer as part of our Summer Grilling campaign!

AJCA ROUND-UP REGISTRATION LIVE

The 16th Annual Round-Up registration is now live! Join us July 14-17 at the Garrett Coliseum for a weekend packed full of educational events and cattle shows. We look forward to welcoming the youth of Alabama to compete and exhibit. Events like this are not possible without sponsorships. We are asking counties to consider a donation of $250.00. The counties that show their support of our youth by sponsoring at the amount of $250.00 or more will receive a star on the county sponsorship map that will be on display ringside. However, anyway you can support our juniors would be appreciated. Please consider supporting the AJCA Round-Up. It is requested that all donations be mailed to 201 South Bainbridge Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 by June 24, 2022. Thank you in advance for your continued support of Alabama’s youth in livestock.

For the full sponsor details, please check out our event website » https://cvent.me/KRGM5z  

Runoff Elections- Next Week

Don’t Forget that the Primary Runoff Election is next Tuesday, June 21! The ACA encourages all members to get out and vote again. It is vitally important to rural communities that voter attendance is strong! Visit www.AlabamaVotes.org for more information about the upcoming runoff.

ACA AT RMC

ACA Director of Education and Outreach Ali Cantrellwas in Des Moines, Iowa this week attending the Reciprocal Meat Conference (RMC). While there, she networked with fellow meat scientists, learned of trends in the meat business and heard from foodservice representatives about meat marketing across the nation. This gave Ali great insight about consumer trends and market forecasts as she explores avenues to effectively market beef to consumers.

BAINBRIDGE BLOCK PARTY

The staff of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Alabama Poultry and Egg Association, and Alabama Forestry Association would like to invite you to our Bainbridge Block Party on Friday, June 24, 2022 at The MOOseum in downtown Montgomery. This event is meant to showcase the different ag commodities, associations, and entities within the state and how they can provide educational opportunities into your classrooms. All teachers that RSVP and attend will receive professional development hours and a certificate. Please RSVP to acantrell@bamabeef.org with your name and school by June 22, 2022!

We will be hosting a Sweet Grown Alabama Farmers market along with educational booths spread throughout. We encourage teachers, students, and the general public to come visit, tour The MOOseum, and head up to the 3rd floor of the building for specialty videos and booths to explore. This event will be open to the general public from 11:00am – 2:00pm and food will be served from 11:30am – 1:30pm. We will be serving burgers, chicken wings, chips, and ice cream from Blue Ribbon Dairy!

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

Bama Beef Blog Weekly Update | June 8, 2022

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!


2022 REGIONAL CATTLEMEN’S COOKOUTS

Last night hosted our first of six Regional Cattlemen’s Cookouts as we headed to Clarke County for the Southwest Regional gathering. It was a great turnout with delicious food, fun giveaways and some very welcomed fellowship. Click here for a map to check out when we’ll be headed to your neck of the woods! This event is FREE for ACA members to attend— all you have to do is click here to RSVP to attend your local meeting or call us at 334-265-1867. Guests who are not members will cost $25 per plate.

  • June 14, 2022: Southeast Alabama; Pike County Cattleman’s Park, Troy
  • June 30, 2022: West Central Alabama; Gvillo Lodge, Moundville
  • July 12, 2022: East Central Alabama; Wetumpka Civic Center, Wetumpka
  • July 19, 2022: Northwest Alabama, Moulton Rec Center, Moulton
  • August 2, 2022: Northeast Alabama, Guntersville Rec Center, Guntersville

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

The second membership statement has hit mailboxes, targeting all non-renewed members for 2022! Hopefully you’ve started receiving some renewals. We are headed boldly in the direction of 10,000 members, and don’t forget that June 30 Over the Top Red Coat deadline! CONGRATS to Barbour, Butler, Dale, Dallas, Elmore, Franklin, Geneva, Hale, Henry, Lowndes, Randolph, St. Clair and Washington counties for already going Over the Top! If you are hosting an annual meeting or summertime event, please contact Jessica Kennedy at our office to let her know OR complete this online form to notify us of your meeting, assign a mailout, and request a guest speaker. As always, leaders, we encourage you to enter new members and renewals by the 15th of each month to guarantee they stay on the magazine distribution list and to deposit checks in a timely manner. Also, PLEASE send county leader updates to the state office so we can update them for future mailings, emails, etc. Contact Jessica to let her know who your county officers are!

Tell the SEC to Stick to Wall Street, Not Main Street 

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is trying to expand their authority to family farms, ranches, and small businesses. The SEC is the federal agency tasked with regulating publicly traded companies and major investors on Wall Street, but recently the SEC proposed a rule with wide overreaching impacts on the cattle industry. The rule would require publicly traded companies to disclose greenhouse gas emissions from their entire supply chain. For large companies like retailers, packers, and restaurants, this rule could force cattle producers to calculate their farm or ranch-level emissions, while exposing them to legal liability. This is unacceptable. 

Cattle producers need to send a strong message to the SEC that we are united against this rule. That’s why the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association launched a grassroots letter directed at the Chairman of the SEC and members of Congress. Please click here to sign the letter today and share with your friends, family, and fellow cattle producers. The more signatures, the better!

AJCA ROUND-UP REGISTRATION LIVE

The 16th Annual Round-Up registration is now live! Join us July 14-17 at the Garrett Coliseum for a weekend packed full of educational events and cattle shows. We look forward to welcoming the youth of Alabama to compete and exhibit. Events like this are not possible without sponsorships. We are asking counties to consider a donation of $250.00. The counties that show their support of our youth by sponsoring at the amount of $250.00 or more will receive a star on the county sponsorship map that will be on display ringside. However, anyway you can support our juniors would be appreciated. Please consider supporting the AJCA Round-Up. It is requested that all donations be mailed to 201 South Bainbridge Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 by June 24, 2022. Thank you in advance for your continued support of Alabama’s youth in livestock.

For the full sponsor details, please check out our event website » https://cvent.me/KRGM5z   

Visiting Rodeos

This weekend, ACA’s Ali Cantrell is escorting staffer Sarah Hunter back to her home in Texas for the annual Parker County Sheriffs Posse Rodeo— a rodeo near and dear to Ali’s heart as her grandfather was one of the original organizers of the, now, annual event. The duo are out to explore new ideas and chat with organizers who have many years of rodeo planning under their belt. This summer, Sarah is taking as many opportunities as she can to explore rodeos of similar size and caliber to the SLE Rodeo in order to find new ideas to bring home to Montgomery. We’re already excited for next year’s show— coming to Montgomery March 17-19, 2023!

ACA at RMC

After a weekend in Texas, ACA Director of Education and Outreach Ali Cantrell is hopping on a plane to Iowa to attend the Reciprocal Meat Conference (RMC). There, she will network with fellow meat scientists, learn of trends in the meat business and hear from foodservice representatives about meat marketing across the nation. This will give Ali great insight about consumer trends and market forecasts as she explores avenues to effectively market beef to consumers.

BAINBRIDGE BLOCK PARTY

The staff of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Alabama Poultry and Egg Association, and Alabama Forestry Association would like to invite you to our Bainbridge Block Party on Friday, June 24, 2022 at The MOOseum in downtown Montgomery. This event is meant to showcase the different ag commodities, associations, and entities within the state and how they can provide educational opportunities into your classrooms. All teachers that RSVP and attend will receive professional development hours and a certificate. Please RSVP to acantrell@bamabeef.org with your name and school by June 22, 2022!

We will be hosting a Sweet Grown Alabama Farmers market along with educational booths spread throughout. We encourage teachers, students, and the general public to come visit, tour The MOOseum, and head up to the 3rd floor of the building for specialty videos and booths to explore. This event will be open to the general public from 11:00am – 2:00pm and food will be served from 11:30am – 1:30pm. We will be serving burgers, chicken wings, chips, and ice cream from Blue Ribbon Dairy!

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

Bama Beef Blog Update | June 1, 2022

Bama Beef Blog Update | June 1, 2022

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!


2022 REGIONAL CATTLEMEN’S COOKOUTS

After such fun success in 2021, we are looking forward to hosting the Regional Cattlemen’s Cookouts again in 2022! Click here for a map to check out your region, so you can save the date for your local event while we firm up locations! This event is FREE for ACA members to attend— all you have to do is click here to RSVP to attend your local meeting or call us at 334-265-1867.

  • June 7, 2022: Southwest Alabama; Clarke Prep School, Grove Hill
  • June 14, 2022: Southeast Alabama; Pike County Cattleman’s Park, Troy
  • June 30, 2022: West Central Alabama; Gvillo Lodge, Moundville
  • July 12, 2022: East Central Alabama; Wetumpka Civic Center, Wetumpka
  • July 19, 2022: Northwest Alabama, Moulton Rec Center, Moulton
  • August 2, 2022: Northeast Alabama, Guntersville Rec Center, Guntersville

Summer Grilling Segments, Firing Up!

ACA Director of Education & Outreach Ali Cantrell traveled to Fairhope to film two cooking segments with WKRG’s Cooking with John segment. First, she filmed with Bill E, owner of Bill E’s Restaurant in Fairhope and a 2014 graduate of our checkoff-funded Beef 101 program. Bill E makes his own bacon and enjoys serving up local beef in his restaurant. To highlight bacon AND beef, Bill E served up a delicious bacon cheeseburger! The segment will air in August. Following, Ali prepared a BBQ-rubbed T-Bone Steak from beefitswhatsfordinner.com that will air at the end of June.

NOW HIRING— DIRECTOR OF FIELD SERVICES

With the news that Morgan Desselle is leaving for a new position with Purina and Alabama Farmers Cooperative, we are seeking to fill the position of Director of Field Services. An application period is now open, and a job description can be found HEREThis position involves working with the state’s beef cattle industry, representing the ACA at producer meetings, cattle sales, county cattlemen chapter meetings and agribusinesses events. The position will be the lead staffer for coordinating the Association’s junior cattlemen programs and young producer programs.

ACA AT AACAAS

ACA Executive Vice President Erin Beasley will be a speaker at the Alabama Association of County Agricultural Agents and Specialists (AACAAS) Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference this evening. She will focus on talking to attendees about ACA’s grassroots structure and how the association represents its members in a number of arenas. The event will be held in Tuscaloosa, AL.

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

The second membership statement has hit mailboxes, targeting all non-renewed members for 2022! Hopefully you’ve started receiving some renewals.

We are headed boldly in the direction of 10,000 members, and don’t forget that June 30 Over the Top Red Coat deadline! Many counties are hosting annual meetings. Please, contact Jessica Kennedy at our office to let her know about county meeting dates and leadership changes OR complete this online form to notify us of your meeting, assign a mailout, and request a guest speaker. As always, leaders, we encourage you to enter new members and renewals by the 15th of each month to guarantee they stay on the magazine distribution list and to deposit checks in a timely manner. Also, PLEASE send county leader updates to the state office so we can update them for future mailings, emails, etc. Contact Jessica to let her know who your county officers are!

Alabama Ag in the Classroom Summer Institute

ACA’s Ali Cantrell will spend the second half of her week in Auburn for the 2022 Alabama Ag In The Classroom Summer Institute. She plans to mingle with teachers from the program to discuss what we do for educators and invite them to our upcoming Bainbridge Block Party, taking place on June 24 at The MOOseum.

Welcoming Visitors

This week, we have had the opportunity to host summer interns from Alabama Ag Credit and the Governor’s Office as they seek to learn more about the beef cattle industry in Alabama and our association. The groups talked with staff, toured The MOOseum and the Cattlemen’s Building and learned about the unique structure of our organization. In addition to these interns, we also look forward to hosting Boys & Girls State representatives on Friday afternoon.

AJCA ROUND-UP REGISTRATION LIVE

The 16th Annual Round-Up registration is now live! Join us July 14-17 at the Garrett Coliseum for a weekend packed full of educational events and cattle shows. We look forward to welcoming the youth of Alabama to compete and exhibit. Events like this are not possible without sponsorships. We are asking counties to consider a donation of $250.00. The counties that show their support of our youth by sponsoring at the amount of $250.00 or more will receive a star on the county sponsorship map that will be on display ringside. However, anyway you can support our juniors would be appreciated. Please consider supporting the AJCA Round-Up. It is requested that all donations be mailed to 201 South Bainbridge Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 by June 24, 2022. Thank you in advance for your continued support of Alabama’s youth in livestock.

For the full sponsor details, please check out our event website » https://cvent.me/KRGM5z   

BAINBRIDGE BLOCK PARTY

The staff of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Alabama Poultry and Egg Association, and Alabama Forestry Association would like to invite you to our Bainbridge Block Party on Friday, June 24, 2022 at The MOOseum in downtown Montgomery. This event is meant to showcase the different ag commodities, associations, and entities within the state and how they can provide educational opportunities into your classrooms. All teachers that RSVP and attend will receive professional development hours and a certificate. Please RSVP to acantrell@bamabeef.org with your name and school by June 22, 2022!

We will be hosting a Sweet Grown Alabama Farmers market along with educational booths spread throughout. We encourage teachers, students, and the general public to come visit, tour The MOOseum, and head up to the 3rd floor of the building for specialty videos and booths to explore. This event will be open to the general public from 11:00am – 2:00pm and food will be served from 11:30am – 1:30pm. We will be serving burgers, chicken wings, chips, and ice cream from Blue Ribbon Dairy!

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

Bama Beef Blog Update | May 25, 2022

Bama Beef Blog Update | May 25, 2022

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!


Primary Election Recap

The primary election took place yesterday across Alabama, and several races were decided or will go to a runoff next month. A full list of results from last night can be found here. The runoff election is June 21, so get ready to go back to the voting box. The ACA sends a huge congratulations to Governor Kay Ivey for her win last night! We look forward to working with her for another four years.

2022 REGIONAL CATTLEMEN’S COOKOUTS

After such fun success in 2021, we are looking forward to hosting the Regional Cattlemen’s Cookouts again in 2022! Click here for a map to check out your region, so you can save the date for your local event while we firm up locations! This event is FREE for ACA members to attend— all you have to do is click here to RSVP to attend your local meeting or call us at 334-265-1867.

  • June 7, 2022: Southwest Alabama; Clarke Prep School, Grove Hill
  • June 14, 2022: Southeast Alabama; Pike County Cattleman’s Park, Troy
  • June 30, 2022: West Central Alabama; Gvillo Lodge, Moundville
  • July 12, 2022: East Central Alabama; Wetumpka Civic Center, Wetumpka
  • July 19, 2022: Northwest Alabama, Moulton Rec Center, Moulton
  • August 2, 2022: Northeast Alabama, Guntersville Rec Center, Guntersville

NOW HIRING— DIRECTOR OF FIELD SERVICES

With the news that Morgan Desselle is leaving for a new position with Purina and Alabama Farmers Cooperative, we are seeking to fill the position of Director of Field Services. An application period is now open, and a job description can be found HEREThis position involves working with the state’s beef cattle industry, representing the ACA at producer meetings, cattle sales, county cattlemen chapter meetings and agribusinesses events. The position will be the lead staffer for coordinating the Association’s junior cattlemen programs and young producer programs.

YCLP Reunion Recap

The Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program (YCLP) Alumni Reunion was held last weekend in south Montgomery County. Special thanks to all the sponsors who made this event possible! YCLP alumni and their families gathered for a weekend of networking, education and fun. On Friday night, the alumni enjoyed a taco bar and catching up with old friends while meeting new alumni. Saturday morning, the education began! We kicked off the morning with updates from ACA President Jim Jordan, Checkoff Staff and SLE member Tina Hammonds. Next, alumni welcomed Jeff Stolle of Nebraska Cattlemen to discuss cattle markets. Participants had the pleasure of a virtual NCBA update from Colin Woodall and Mary Bea Halimeh. The education portion of the weekend ended with hands-on media training provided by ACA Director of Communications Kayla Greer. After a morning of updates and education, the alumni spent the afternoon enjoying Kick Back Ranch amenities and a friendly goat roping competition! The weekend concluded with a steak dinner, sponsored by our friends at Ag Credit.

Summer Grilling, Ready for Lift Off!

Memorial Day Weekend is the official start to summer grilling, and checkoff dollars will go to work to kick off our Spotify, Connected TV, cooking segment and billboard campaigns across the state! ACA has partnered with NCBA to roll out Spotify and connected tv (streaming service) ads for the next five months, through October. During the summer, if you listen to Spotify or subscribe to a streaming service, you should hear or see summer grilling ads as well as some words from our “A List” beef industry spokesperson, Tony Romo, about tailgating with beef. Then in October, we will switch gears to have ads that promote Beef Month in Alabama!

As you travel down the I-65 corridor to the coastline, be on the lookout for BEEF billboards in Huntsville, Cullman, Hope Hull/Letohatchee, Rabun and on the Foley Beach Express in Robertsdale. If you see it, ask your passenger to snap a photo and share it on Facebook for all to see!

Also this summer, ACA Director of Education & Outreach Ali Cantrell has lined up beef cooking segments in markets across the state. Next week, she’s set to film cooking segments with John Nodar on WKRG Mobile. She will serve up a bacon cheeseburger and a T-Bone steak to showcase for summer grilling. She’ll travel back to Mobile when WKRG finishes their new demo kitchen later this year to film three more segments with beef producer and ag teacher, Emily Dent, and Alabama Junior Cattlemen Association Director Alivia Watson.

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

The second membership statement has hit mailboxes, targeting all non-renewed members for 2022! Hopefully you’ve started receiving some renewals.

We are headed boldly in the direction of 10,000 members! Many counties are hosting annual meetings. Please, contact Jessica Kennedy at our office to let her know about county meeting dates and leadership changes OR complete this online form to notify us of your meeting, assign a mailout, and request a guest speaker. As always, leaders, we encourage you to enter new members and renewals by the 15th of each month to guarantee they stay on the magazine distribution list and to deposit checks in a timely manner. Also, PLEASE send county leader updates to the state office so we can update them for future mailings, emails, etc. Contact Jessica to let her know who your county officers are!

AJCA Round-Up Registration Live

The 16th Annual Round-Up registration is now live! Join us July 14-17 at the Garrett Coliseum for a weekend packed full of educational events and cattle shows. We look forward to welcoming the youth of Alabama to compete and exhibit. Events like this are not possible without sponsorships. We are asking counties to consider a donation of $250.00. The counties that show their support of our youth by sponsoring at the amount of $250.00 or more will receive a star on the county sponsorship map that will be on display ringside. However, anyway you can support our juniors would be appreciated. Please consider supporting the AJCA Round-Up. It is requested that all donations be mailed to 201 South Bainbridge Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 by June 24, 2022. Thank you in advance for your continued support of Alabama’s youth in livestock.

For the full sponsor details, please check out our event website » https://cvent.me/KRGM5z   

SLE Rodeo, Always at Work

ACA Director of Rodeo Programs Sarah Hunter has enjoyed visiting other rodeos in the region to study their shows and event formats in an effort to bring home new ideas to enhance our show in Montgomery! Last weekend, she visited the Franklin Rodeo in Franklin, TN and next month, she will travel west with Texan native Ali Cantrell to her hometown’s Parker County Sheriffs Posse Rodeo, just outside of Fort Worth. Sarah has also stayed busy promoting the March event and is putting in the hours to make the 2023 show bigger and better.

BAINBRIDGE BLOCK PARTY

The staff of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Alabama Poultry and Egg Association, and Alabama Forestry Association would like to invite you to our Bainbridge Block Party on Friday, June 24, 2022 at The MOOseum in downtown Montgomery. This event is meant to showcase the different ag commodities, associations, and entities within the state and how they can provide educational opportunities into your classrooms. All teachers that RSVP and attend will receive professional development hours and a certificate. Please RSVP to acantrell@bamabeef.org with your name and school by June 22, 2022!

We will be hosting a Sweet Grown Alabama Farmers market along with educational booths spread throughout. We encourage teachers, students, and the general public to come visit, tour The MOOseum, and head up to the 3rd floor of the building for specialty videos and booths to explore. This event will be open to the general public from 11:00am – 2:00pm and food will be served from 11:30am – 1:30pm. We will be serving burgers, chicken wings, chips, and ice cream from Blue Ribbon Dairy!

ACA at AACAAS

Next week, ACA Executive Vice President Erin Beasley will be a speaker at the Alabama Association of County Agricultural Agents and Specialists (AACAAS) Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference. She will focus on talking to attendees about ACA’s grassroots structure and how the association represents its members in a number of arenas. The event will be held in Tuscaloosa, AL.

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

Bama Beef Blog Update | May 18, 2022

Welcome to the Bama Beef Blog, where you can check out the latest news from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program and the Southeastern Livestock Expo. Keep reading for more info!


Now Hiring— Director of Field Services

We are sad to announce that Morgan Desselle will be leaving our staff, effective June 2, but wish her well in her new role as the Central Alabama Livestock Production Specialist (LPS) with Purina and the Alabama Farmers Cooperative. Morgan has been vital to our team the last few years and has done an outstanding job representing the association. She grew the Jr. Cattlemen’s program, developed great relationships in the countryside and took YCLP to new levels. We will really miss her enthusiasm, work ethic and organization. Her departure comes with the exception of the AJCA Round-Up as she has so graciously agreed to help see the summer show through!

This news means that we are seeking to fill the position of Director of Field Services. An application period is now open, and a job description can be found HERE. This position involves working with the state’s beef cattle industry, representing the ACA at producer meetings, cattle sales, county cattlemen chapter meetings and agribusinesses events. The position will be the lead staffer for coordinating the Association’s junior cattlemen programs and young producer programs.

Quarterly Beef Checkoff Council Meeting

The Beef Checkoff Council will meet tomorrow for a quarterly meeting. The group will focus on reviewing the financials and program areas so far for the 2022 fiscal year. Todd Johnson from NCBA will join us virtually to serve as a speaker for the group on how Alabama works and benefits from the Federation staff at the NCBA Denver office.

2022 REGIONAL CATTLEMEN’S COOKOUTS

After such fun success in 2021, we are looking forward to hosting the Regional Cattlemen’s Cookouts again in 2022! Click here for a map to check out your region, so you can save the date for your local event while we firm up locations! This event is FREE for ACA members to attend— all you have to do is click here to RSVP to attend your local meeting or call us at 334-265-1867.

  • June 7, 2022: Southwest Alabama; Clarke Prep School, Grove Hill
  • June 14, 2022: Southeast Alabama; Pike County Cattleman’s Park, Troy
  • June 30, 2022: West Central Alabama; Gvillo Lodge, Moundville
  • July 12, 2022: East Central Alabama; Wetumpka Civic Center, Wetumpka
  • July 19, 2022: Northwest Alabama, Moulton Rec Center, Moulton
  • August 2, 2022: Northeast Alabama, Guntersville Rec Center, Guntersville

YCLP Reunion Weekend

The Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program Alumni Reunion is this weekend! The alumni of the program will enjoy a weekend catching up with classmates and meeting new alumni. The event will also include multiple educational opportunities. Saturday morning we will welcome Jeff Stolle from Nebraska Cattlemen to discuss cattle markets. The alumni will also get the opportunity to speak with NCBA Collin Woodall on industry hot topics. The alumni will be given updates from ACA, Checkoff, and SLE leaders and staff. The educational portion of the weekend will conclude with media training from ACA Director of Communications Kayla Greer. We look forward to seeing our young producers!

AJCA Round-Up Registration Now Live!

The 16th Annual Round-Up registration is now live! Join us July 14-17 at the Garrett Coliseum for a weekend packed full of educational events and cattle shows. We look forward to welcoming the youth of Alabama to compete and exhibit. For the full rules packet and to register, please check out our event website » https://cvent.me/KRGM5z   

Working with Partners

Yesterday, May 17, staffer Ali Cantrell traveled to Crossville High School to speak to the ag and family and consumer science students about the beef industry and Beef 101. She spoke to 240 students throughout the day and answered their questions about the beef industry in Alabama.

Today, Erin Beasley is attending the quarterly State Soil and Water Conservation Board Meeting as well as an industry working group meeting at the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. The ACA works with various agencies in the state to ensure that regulations and programming developed are helpful and not overburdensome to cattlemen.

Down to Earth Featured on RFD-TV

On Tuesday, ACA Director of Communications and Down to Earth Co-Chair Kayla Greer had the opportunity to promote the Down to Earth campaign during a live interview on RFD-TV’s Market Day Report. She was joined by her counterpart, Down to Earth Co-Chair Caleb Hicks from the Alabama Poultry and Egg Association. The duo spoke with RFD-TV’s Suzanne Alexander about the campaign, where the idea came from, and why they see a need to share the sustainability story with Alabama consumers.

This unique opportunity came to be thanks to connections at the network. Victoria Dee, daughter of Pickens County Cattleman Mike Dee, is a producer on RFD-TV’s Market Day Report and caught wind of the campaign in her home state. She then reached out to the Down to Earth team to coordinate the segment— BIG thank you to Victoria for this opportunity! We’re proud to be part of carrying the banner for a sustainability campaign that hopefully other states will soon mimic.

Watch the segment, featuring Kayla and Caleb and produced by Victoria, here.

Beef for Father’s Day

Leaders of the Alabama CattleWomen’s Association and ACA’s Erin Beasley traveled to the Capitol building on Tuesday to declare “Beef for Father’s Day.” This event is a longstanding tradition with the ACWA and the Office of the Governor. Thank you, Governor Kay Ivey, for encouraging everyone to buy beef for the fathers in your life on  June 19!

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

The second membership statement has hit mailboxes, targeting all non-renewed members for 2022! Hopefully you’ve started receiving some renewals.

We are headed boldly in the direction of 10,000 members! Many counties are hosting annual meetings. Please, contact Jessica Kennedy at our office to let her know about county meeting dates and leadership changes OR complete this online form to notify us of your meeting, assign a mailout, and request a guest speaker. As always, leaders, we encourage you to enter new members and renewals by the 15th of each month to guarantee they stay on the magazine distribution list and to deposit checks in a timely manner. Also, PLEASE send county leader updates to the state office so we can update them for future mailings, emails, etc. Contact Jessica to let her know who your county officers are!

SLE at ARC

Last week, SLE President-Elect Frank Ellis and staffers Erin Beasley and Sarah Hunter visited Las Vegas for the Association of Rodeo Committees (ARC) Global Conference where they got the chance to network with other rodeo committees as well as receive updates from PRCA ProRodeo, CowboyChannel, and more. The SLE is continually working hard to provide you with the best rodeo experience possible, and we are certainly looking forward to the excitement that’s to come in March 2023!

Bainbridge Block Party

The staff of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Alabama Poultry and Egg Association, and Alabama Forestry Association would like to invite you to our Bainbridge Block Party on Friday, June 24, 2022 at The MOOseum in downtown Montgomery. This event is meant to showcase the different ag commodities, associations, and entities within the state and how they can provide educational opportunities into your classrooms. All teachers that RSVP and attend will receive professional development hours and a certificate. Please RSVP to acantrell@bamabeef.org with your name and school by June 22, 2022!

We will be hosting a Sweet Grown Alabama Farmers market along with educational booths spread throughout. We encourage teachers, students, and the general public to come visit, tour The MOOseum, and head up to the 3rd floor of the building for specialty videos and booths to explore. This event will be open to the general public from 11:00am – 2:00pm and food will be served from 11:30am – 1:30pm. We will be serving burgers, chicken wings, chips, and ice cream from Blue Ribbon Dairy!

Set Your DVR! Beef on MASTERCHEF JUNIOR

DENVER, CO (May 17, 2022) – The stakes are high as talented young chefs bring out their aprons and return to the kitchen on the hit culinary competition series MASTERCHEF JUNIOR airing Thursdays (8:00 ET) on FOX. This week, the seven remaining junior chefs test their culinary knowledge of different cuts as contestants will choose their steak in an Operation-style game. The winner of the steak challenge will get his or her recipe published on BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com and win a trip to a cattle farm. The episode of MASTERCHEF JUNIOR, featuring Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. airs THIS Thursday, May 19 (8:00 ET) on FOX.

Primaries- Next Tuesday!

Don’t forget that the Primary Election is next Tuesday, May 24! Make sure to get out and vote. The last day to apply for an absentee ballot is tomorrow and can be done here.

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