APPLICATIONS SOUGHT FOR ALABAMA’S FARM OF DISTINCTION Auburn, January 9, 2003 --- The Alabama Farm-City Committee has application forms available for Alabama’s 2003 Farm of Distinction competition, which recognizes outstanding farmers and rewards them with cash and other prizes. “Operating a farm is becoming more and more challenging,” said J. Paul Till, chairman of the Alabama Farm-City Committee. “It is important we recognize farms that can serve as an example for others to follow.” Based on the applications submitted, division winners are chosen from five different areas of the state, plus one at-large winner. These six farms then compete for the state title and a $2,500 cash prize. A panel of agricultural experts who visit each farm, select division winners. The winner will be announced in Birmingham, April 28. Alabama’s winner will represent the state in competition for the Lancaster/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year in October. The Sunbelt winner receives $14,000 plus several prizes. Any size farm is eligible for the competition. Farms are judged on environmental stewardship, overall appearance, accomplishments, efficiency and leadership of the farm owner. Application forms are available on the Alfa Farmers website at http://www.alfafarmers.org/farm-city. For more information, call 1-800-392-5705, ext. 4410 or email ptill@alfafarmers.org. The deadline for application is March 15.