THE HOLIDAY SEASON is always a time for gratitude and optimism, especially in the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station. We are grateful for the strong support of our research programs by the people of this state and trust that this will be further strengthened in the future. We are particularly pleased to have a dedicated faculty and staff, who on a daily basis generate the technology necessary to move our agricultural and forest industries into the 21st century.

We have every reason to be optimistic about the future. Recent reorganization of the Experiment Station has allowed us to fine tune some things that should make us even more productive in the future. Throughout the colleges and schools that conduct work under the auspices of the Alabama Ag Experiment Station, we can all say, It is NOT business as usual here.

As the holiday season passes and 1997 arrives, I want to thank all the scientists and support staff who make up the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station for your good work and support. I want to reinforce our commitment to improving the quality of life of all Alabamians. I wish you and your family a merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.

Please stop by comer 107 to see me as your schedule permits.

James E. Marion
Director, Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station