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

2017-convention-websitefeatureConvention 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 ofimg_0928_website 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
IMG_4318_websiteThere 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

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:

  1. “Over the Top” Deadline – All membership needs to be in the state office or postmarked by February 28th to qualify for “Over the Top” awards.
  2. 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
  3. 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 GATORtwo ways…

  1. 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!
  2. 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

IMG_4417_webcropErin 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

IMG_6187_webcrop

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 cattlemenyoung-cattlemen-logo_websized 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

Cowboy Cookoff registration is open online, and we are recruiting teams Alabama Ag Credit (2)_WEBto 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.

 

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

8a87f4c1-29ca-47c7-9bb1-86e01af4e77aIf 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! sle-logoActivities 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

2017-convention-websitefeatureYou 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…

 

(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 ofimg_0928_website 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.

 

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

 

(5) Family Fun and Networking
img_1026_websiteThere 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

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:

  1. “Over the Top” Deadline – All membership needs to be in the state office or postmarked by February 28th to qualify for “Over the Top” awards.
  2. The 2nd Renewal Notice will go out by the end of the month so get payment in for pending membership!
  3. 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
  4. 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 GATORtwo ways…

  1. 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!
  2. 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

IMG_0533_WEBEach 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

young-cattlemen-logo_websizedDo 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

Cowboy Cookoff registration is open online, and we are recruiting teams Alabama Ag Credit (2)_WEBto 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.

 

 

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 IMG_5778_WEBtime.  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! sle-logoActivities 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!

 

 

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 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

2017-convention-websitefeatureConvention 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…

 

(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.

 

(2) A SOLD OUT Trade Show
If you’ve got business that needs to be taken care of for the betterment ofimg_0928_website 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

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!

 

(5) Family Fun and Networking
img_1026_websiteThere 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! 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 Reliefimg_9835_online

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:

  1. “Over the Top” Deadline – All membership needs to be in the state office or postmarked by February 28th to qualify for “Over the Top” awards.
  2. The 2nd Renewal Notice will go out by the end of the month so get payment in for pending membership!
  3. 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
  4. 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

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.

 

YCLP Class IV Nominations Underway

young-cattlemen-logo_websizedDo 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.

 

SLE Rodeo- Don’t Miss It!sle-logo

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! 

What’s Going On Wednesday: January 4, 2017

Happy New Year! We hope everyone had a wonderful, relaxing Christmas holiday and spent plenty of time with friends and family on the farm. Not sure about you, but this weather has our heads spinning…hot, cold, rain, drought, and now they’re talking snow this weekend! Dealing with the weather is just one of the many unique facets of being an Alabama cattleman.

You may notice some aesthetic changes with today’s post, and we are excited to welcome you to the new-and-improved home of the Bama Beef Blog! This blog platform is directly connected to our website, BamaBeef.org so it helps us streamline our updates and news and get the most out of what our new website has to offer. We hope you like it!

As your taking a break from re-winterizing the farm, putting out hay and preparing for a wild weather weekend ahead, keeping reading to get your first Bama Beef Blog update of 2017. It’s going to be a great year…

 

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

2017-convention-websitefeatureConvention is just around the corner. In fact, according to our website countdown, it’s only 42 days away!! Make sure to get registered 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 an outline…

 

(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.

 

(2) An Almost 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.

If you’d like to have a booth in our trade show, time is running out! We have only 10 booths left to sell. Contact Erin Beasley by calling (334) 265-1867 to grab your spot today.

 

(3) An Array of Cattlemen’s Colleges
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!

We will also be taking care of some business at convention! We recently completed Nominating Committee work on the slate for 2017 officers to be presented at the General Membership Meeting on Thursday February 16th. Be looking forward to who will lead this association in the future!

We will also be handing out over $50,000 in scholarships at the Thursday night Awards Banquet! The scholarship committee is making final decisions on awards this week on over 100 applications. Scholarship letters will be mailed out next week.

 

NCBA Convention

ncbaACA officers, Board members and staff are getting ready to “Mosey on Down to Music City” at the 2017 NCBA Convention and Beef Industry Trade Show February 1-3! Staff will be there to attend meetings, workshops, promote associate memberships and to man our booth at the trade show!

We’ve got several Board members and state officers who are going to serve and important role, however. ACA President Bill Lipscomb and Immediate Past President Jim Akin will represent ACA on the Federation (Checkoff) Board while ACA President-Elect Richard Meadows and Past President Jimmy Holliman represent Alabama on the Policy (membership) Board. Past President Donna Jo Curtis will complete her three-year term on the NCBA Executive Committee representing the southeastern states in Region II on the Federation side. Holliman, who serves as chair NCBA’s Animal Health and Well-being Committee, is in Washington D.C. today with a meeting of all of NCBA’s Policy Committee chairs preparing for the producer committee meetings later this month in Nashville.

 

Not a Fan of GIPSA? Neither Are We…

Speaking of Washington D.C., your state Cattlemen’s Association is working with NCBA on a possible lawsuit against USDA’s recent action forcing a unpopular change in Grain Inspection Pickers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) regulations that would impact value-based marketing. Stay tuned for more details as plans unravel.

 

County Annual Meetings

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:

  1. “Over the Top” Deadline – All membership needs to be in the state office or postmarked by February 28th to qualify for “Over the Top” awards.
  2. The 2nd Renewal Notice will go out by the end of the month so get payment in for pending membership!
  3. 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
  4. Following your county meeting, send us your new officers so we can update them in our system! Simply email them to Jessica.

 

AJCA Round-Up Dates and Theme Announced!

fiestalogo5We’re excited to host our Juniors back in Montgomery at Garrett Coliseum on July 20-23, 2017 for a FIESTA! That’s right, bring your bright colors because we are going to be taking on the Round-Up with a south-of-the-border theme!

 

2017 Associate Members

We’d like to shoutout our 2017 Associate Members and thank them for their partnership with the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association. Be sure to check out their services!

 

Platinum Level Associate Member

Alfa Logo Master (CMYK C)2

 

Gold Level Associate Member

afc-coop    american-national

 

Silver Level Associate Member

new-holland-logo

 

Bronze Level Associate Member

merck-animal-health   vantage_logo_by_trimble_agriculture-576-x-288-00000003

 

 

Thanks for checking out this week’s blog post! We hope you enjoy the NEW Bama Beef Blog. We’ll see you back here next week. Be safe and stay warm! 

What’s Going On Wednesday: December 21, 2016

FOUR DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS! 
Before we close out 2016 and staff enjoys a holiday vacation next week, we would like to wish each and every one of our cattle producers, members, industry partners, county and state leaders, Junior cattlemen, YCLP students, social media followers, sponsors…..everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year! We hope Santa Claus is good to you and yours and that 2017 starts bright. 

 
We’ll see y’all again next year, but first, here’s our last weekly update from this year…

AJCA Board of Directors Meeting

The Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association Board of Directors met this Tuesday to discuss plans for the upcoming year’s events and develop ideas for growing the statewide organization. Presiding over the meeting was AJCA President Cameron Catrett, with ACA Director for Industry Relations and Youth Activities Matthew Pounds advising. The group discussed starting county chapters, themes and new contest ideas for the 2017 AJCA Round-Up and responsibilities of directors including giving reports at county Cattlemen’s annual meetings.

Matthew was very pleased as all 10 Directors were in attendance at the meeting and were eager to discuss plans and ideas. Great job, Junior leaders!

Drawing Winners

Congrats to our Early Bird Membership drawing winners! Check out the lucky cash prize recipients:
Jackie Looney, Limestone County-$250
Steve Shelton, Morgan County-$150
Larry McGhar, Macon County-$100
Congrats and thanks to all who submitted membership in time for the drawing!

New Face on the Bama Beef Blog

Big changes are coming to the Bama Beef Blog in 2017! The new website (BamaBeef.org) will be the new home to the Bama Beef Blog starting our post of 2017. It’ll be new and improved, and we are excited for this addition to our website!

The MOOseum Video Project

It’s been a long time coming, but our 21-year-old resident cowboy and tour guide of The MOOseum’s Video Gallery, Adam Bainbridge, developed a bad case of laryngitis earlier in 2016 and can no longer tell the story of Alabama’s beef cattle industry. That being said, never fear, Dr. Technology is here!
We are fortunate to still have contact with Adam Bainbridge’s creator, Wayne Sullivant, and Erin and Kayla are working alongside Wayne this month and into January to produce a new video and get Adam’s voice back so The MOOseum visitors can hear and see all about Alabama’s cattle industry in HD!

Christmas Party, Holiday Vacation and Retirements

This week is exciting as staff celebrates Christmas with the annual office party complete with a game of Dirty Santa and other gift exchanges followed by a week’s vacation. The office will be closed to observe the holiday season December 26-30, and staff will report back at their desks the morning of January 2 ready to conquer the new year!
Unfortunately, however, we will be returning without one veteran staff member. This Friday, we say goodbye to Ms. Martha Davis after 26 years of dedicated service to the ACA. Martha will spend her Christmas holiday officially in her retirement, and staffers are sad that she won’t be here to keep us all straight but excited for her and a well-earned break! Thank you, Martha, for everything!

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

The Capital City Stampede will be held Feb. 15-16, 2017 at the Renaissance Hotel and Montgomery Convention Center in Montgomery, Ala. Registration is now open online, and mail-in registration forms are available in the December issue of the Alabama Cattleman magazine. You can also 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 have three headliner speakers this year. The first is 10-year veteran of CattleFax, Clay Spearman. 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 Past President Steve Foglesong who is now serving as a member of President-Elect Donald Trump’s agricultural advisory team. Foglesong will give us a look inside the future of American agriculture under the Trump Administration. Also confirmed 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 giving an update on Checkoff efforts globally.

Also, the Trade Show is filling up! Fifty+ vendors are locked in including some great equipment vendors. WE ONLY HAVE 13 BOOTH SPACES STILL AVAILABLE. Visit www.BamaBeef.org/Convention to register now. You can also stay up-to-date with all the newest announcements by joining our Convention Event Page on Facebook.

 

60th Annual SLE Rodeo

Just in time for Christmas, SLE Rodeo tickets are NOW AVAILABLE! Rodeo tickets can be purchased online at SLERodeo.com, by calling 1-888-2RODEO2, through mail-in order forms available online, by visiting the Garrett Coliseum Box Office or at a local Publix.

 
 
Thanks for checking out this week’s blog post! We will be back with a new report on January 4, 2017. Until then, keep up with our day-to-day activities by visiting our website (BamaBeef.org), ourEvents Calendar or FOLLOW US on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!