(Huntsville, Alabama) Oct. 19, 2012  —Farm Service Agency Madison County Executive Director, Thomas Atkinson said the sign-up period for the 2011 crop year Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments (SURE) program will open Oct. 22, 2012, and end June 7, 2013. The SURE program authorizes assistance to farmers and ranchers who suffered crop losses caused by natural disasters occurring through Sept. 30, 2011. 

“Any eligible producer who suffered losses during the 2011 crop year is encouraged to visit the FSA office to learn more about the SURE program and how to apply,” said Atkinson.

Production losses due to disasters occurring after Sept. 30, 2011, are not eligible for disaster program coverage.

To be eligible for SURE, a farm or ranch must have:

The next couple of days are looking brutal as we go through weekend. If you are not heading to the lake or the pool this weekend, your options in staying cool are limited. After all if you stay at home, eventually is going to get boring and the book you been meaning to finish will be finished...hopefully. I have some other options to beat the heat.

1. Time to break out Rock Band! You remember that game right? You slap the bass, have your buddy plays lead guitar, your roommate who is always mad at you beating on the drums, and find someone comfortable enough to sing in front of the rest of the group. With a huge library of songs to play from the game or download, this game will last for hours. Depending on the songs that are played, this could be a family fun affair!  You could even have theme parties where everyone has to dress like a rocker or the decade. Let your imagination run wild on this.

By Lewis Humphries

With the portents of the double-dip recession lurking around corner, now is the perfect time to start considering how you can save money on your heating and winterization costs. It is estimated that the average U.S. family spends US$1,900 annually on their utility bills. The majority of the $1,900 accounts for the gas or electrical heating systems which are installed on their properties. With this in mind, the following tips may help you to save money while keeping your loved ones warm and creating a comfortable home for the winter.