Debt was Focus for Carson and Pataki in Iowa

Joanna Schroeder

Republican presidential hopefuls Dr. Ben Carson and former New York Governor George Pataki took the Des Moines Register Soapbox during the Iowa State Fair Sunday with a common message of reducing America’s debt.

Ben CarsonDr. Carson, a retired neurosurgeon, focused much of his remarks on personal stories yet engaged the crowd with lessons learned. For example, he said, “The person who has the most to do with what happens in life is you.” His big campaign focus, though, is that the country is in the process of destroying the future of the next generation in part because both Democrats and Republicans are “blowing up the budget.” He stressed the real problem is the fiscal gap – program needs that don’t meet needed funding – or unfunded liabilities such as Medicare and Social Security. However, Carson made no mention of agriculture during his appearance at the fair.

Listen to why Ben Carson wants to be president here:Ben Carson at the Iowa State Fair

George PatakiPataki stood strong on both economy and the military. He was the NY Governor during 9-11 and said “we must shut down ISIS”. He wants to give “the power back to the people”. He wants to throw-out the corrupt tax codes, reduce the government workforce by 15 percent and lower tax rates for small business and families.

He also said he is the only candidate that grew up on a farm. “I don’t have a plane. I have three tractors. In fact, I was out on a tractor last week moving hay.” He spent most of his life living on a farm and he, his wife and family farm today in upstate New York. “Great, but what does that does it mean? It teaches you values,” stressed Pataki.

Listen to why George Pataki wants to be president here:George Pataki at the Iowa State Fair

Click here to read our coverage of the Des Moines Register Presidential Soapbox series at the Iowa State Fair.

Audio, politics

No #GetYourAgOn From These Candidates

Joanna Schroeder

There are a lot of candidates vying to be the next president of the United States floating around the Iowa State Fair, but for being in Iowa, many are missing the boat on two very important issues to the state – energy and agriculture. This weekend, presidential candidates Rick Santorum, former U.S. Senator of Pennsylvania (Republican); Lincoln Chafee, former Governor of Rhode Island (Democrat); and Bernie Sanders, U.S. Senator from Vermont (Independent running for the Democratic nomination) all pushed their economic and military agendas as part of the Des Moines Register Soapbox series while laying low on other major issues. Let’s recap their remarks.

Rick SantorumRick Santorum touted his military expertise by noting that “no one in this race has the record I do on national security”. If elected, he will defeat ISIS and how he will do this is being explained in his 2020 Perfect Vision for the Future. Like George Pataki (R-NY) he wants to cut corporate taxes. Santorum was silent on renewable energy, agriculture and climate change.

Listen to why Rick Santorum wants to be president here:Rick Santorum at the Iowa State Fair

Bernie SandersBernie Sanders had quite the crowd and has set himself apart as being the only candidate to speak on the soapbox so far who wants to expand social security. He plans on doing this by lifting the cap on taxable income. Several other hot button issues: make all higher education free; overhaul campaign finance; end racism by bringing about major reform in the criminal justice system; equity pay for women in the workforce; and economy – “We need an economy that works for working people”.

And, climate change is real. He said, “When we talk about our responsibilities, as adults, as parents, as citizens of this Earth, we have a moral responsibility to make certain that we leave this planet in a way that is habitable for our kids and grandchildren. The debate is over. Climate change is real. Climate change is caused by human activity. Climate change is already causing devastating problems in our country and around the world. What the United State must do, and I will do as president, is lead the world in working with other countries to transform our energy system.”

Listen to why Bernie Sanders wants to be president here:Bernie Sanders at the Iowa State Fair

Lincoln ChafeeLincoln Chafee believes that when electing legislators, voters need to look at past performance, character and vision. He told the crowd that while he was governor, he worked to curb climate change; fought for marriage equality; made investments in education a priority; and helped to lead the nation in the rollout of Obama Care. In terms of national security, he will work hard to end wars if elected saying, “Prosperity comes with peace”.

Listen to why Lincoln Chafee wants to be president here:Lincoln Chafee at the Iowa State Fair

Click here to read our coverage of the Des Moines Register Presidential Soapbox series at the Iowa State Fair.

Audio, politics

NAMA Boot Camp 2015

Chuck Zimmerman

NAMA Boot CampThe National Agri-Marketing Association’s annual Boot Camp is taking place starting with a farm tour hosted by the local MOKAN Chapter. Our Jamie Johansen is there. Follow her on Twitter where she has already broadcast live via Periscope this morning. The first stop of the farm tour is Byergo Angus.

There will be an opening general session and dinner this evening followed by a full day of professional development sessions tomorrow and on Thursday morning. Jamie will have some stories to share along with photos after she gets off the farm today.

Meanwhile, Cindy and I will be hitting the agriblogging highway tomorrow, going in different directions. Cindy will be off to Omaha for the American Coalition for Ethanol annual meeting while I head to Minneapolis and the Biodiesel and Bioheat Forum and then places beyond.

NAMA

Alltech Accepting Graduate’s Applications

Kelly Marshall

AlltechAlltech is recruiting recent graduates to apply for the fourth annual Alltech Corporate Career Development Program.  Graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree programs are invited to apply now through September 30.  The program begins in February of 2016.

Exciting opportunities are available for 10 high-calibre university graduates hoping to work with experts in the fields of science, aquaculture, agriculture, marketing, sales, veterinary science, information technology, business and biotechnology. Alltech aims to develop future leaders in the agricultural industry and values long-term talent development through the Alltech Corporate Career Development Program, which started in 2012. The animal health and nutrition company has a presence in 128 countries globally and is set to grow into a $4 billion business within the next several years.

“This is a life-changing opportunity for recent graduates to interact with colleagues from other countries, develop both their technical and interpersonal skills, and share their fresh ideas,” said Dr. Aoife Lyons, director of educational initiatives for Alltech. “Previous Career Development Program members have worked in variety of areas, including internal auditing for Latin America, coordinating Alltech educational initiative efforts and developing the crop science market in Germany. We strive to match successful applicants’ interests with Alltech’s global needs.”

The program is a 12 month salaried mentorship that starts with an intensive training period at the headquarter’s of Alltech in Nicholasville, Kentucky, USA.  The participants will learn about topics such as sustainable energy, communications, marketing, and international business.  From there graduates will continue training and development while also managing projects in one of the company’s global offices, guided by a mentor.

Last year Cody Hutchins of the US was accepted into the program.  He is currently working in Beijing, China on several projects, including the partnership of five companies to create sustainable pork operation.  Hutchins is also involved in strategies for aquaculture and algae markets in China.

“My experience in Alltech has been amazing, and I am continually impressed with the passionate culture that makes the company thrive,” Hutchins said. “Alltech does a great job of empowering individuals to act quickly on opportunities, and the result is a fast-paced, fun and exciting environment. If you want to join in solving some of the world’s most challenging issues, while traveling and learning by experience, definitely apply for this program.”

Alltech, International

Gable to be Publisher of Protein Division

Kelly Marshall

Vance-GableVance Publishing Corporation is pleased to announce the addition of Stephanie Gable as Publisher of the Protein Division.  Gable will be working with publications such as; Drovers CattleNetwork, Dairy Herd Management, Cow-Calf Producer, PORK Network, and Bovine Veterinarian.

Gable has a strong background in agribusiness.  She comes to Vance from Novus Interational where she served as Executive Manager of Global Sales and Product Training as well as Global Ruminants Market Manger.  Before Novus she worked at Fort Dodge Animal Health, Bayer CropScience, the Missouri Soybean Associations, and Colle + McVoy.

“Stephanie will continue our goal of bringing customer-centric solutions to the marketplace,” says Matt Morgan, Executive Director of Agribusiness for Vance Publishing. “With her strong organizational skills, she will help us further integrate our sales and marketing strategies.”

Gable graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and a Master’s degree in Journalism Strategic Communications. She has been very involved in agricultural organizations, including the National Agri-Marketing Association, where she served as NAMA President from 2006 to 2007.

“Stephanie’s experience and credibility will be extremely valuable as we enhance our position as America’s expert business source for animal agriculture,” says Morgan. “We’re very excited to have her lead our protein brands to new levels of success.”

Agribusiness, Journalism, Publication

New Website for USDA AMS

Cindy Zimmerman

USDAUSDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has launched a redesigned website (www.ams.usda.gov) to make it more user-friendly for stakeholders.

“Whether you are looking for information about our services, want to comment on proposed regulations, or are interested in selling food to USDA, our new website makes it easier to find the right information and tools,” said AMS Administrator Anne L. Alonzo.

AMS reports price and sales data for hundreds of commodities, purchases food for USDA feeding programs, implements and enforces organic standards under the National Organic Program, and offers technical assistance and grant funding to support local and regional food systems.

In addition to new task-related menus, the website features a responsive design that makes it easy to use on mobile devices. Users who previously bookmarked AMS Market News commodity price data or other information on the old website can still use the same links on the redesigned site.

USDA

Jeb Bush Touts #Ag Support at Iowa State Fair

Joanna Schroeder

Jeb Bush at Presidential SoapboxRepublican Jeb Bush, former governor of Florida and presidential hopeful, kicked off his time on the Presidential Soapbox promoting his support of agriculture and renewable energy. Florida has a huge agriculture community. In fact, the state ranks second in value of vegetable production, just behind California, is the first in production value for oranges, grapefruit, watermelons, and more and is 12th in beef cows. Florida also ranks seventh in agricultural exports with $4 billion.

With the importance of ag to Iowans, he put the issue top of mind for Iowa State fairgoers when he began his remarks by focusing on an America in decline. But unlike his predecessors, he enveloped his support of two of Iowa’s largest industry’s – renewable energy and agriculture – at the very beginning of his talk rather than waiting until he was asked a question from the crowd his stand of the two issues.

Bush noted that the EPA, through WOTUS and the Clean Air Act, “will stifle the ability for industry to be created and agriculture to work leading the world”. “We have serious, serious problems,” continued Bush. “We need to embrace the energy revolution, and be energy secure with North American resources in a short period of time with American ingenuity, American innovation and American technology.”

Beyond these remarks, Bush didn’t focus on ag but rather, like his opponents, on how he would bring economic security back to Americans.

Listen to why Jeb Bush wants to be president here:Jeb Bush at the Iowa State Fair

Click here to read our coverage of the Des Moines Register Presidential Soapbox series at the Iowa State Fair.

Agribusiness, Audio, Energy, politics, Water

Missouri’s Agriculture Stewardship Assurance Program

Jamie Johansen

Screen Shot 2015-08-14 at 10.27.24 AMMissouri Department of Agriculture held a press conference on the opening day of the Missouri State Fair about the launch of their Agriculture Stewardship Assurance Program (ASAP). The program goals are to encourage sustainable agricultural practices throughout the state, increase consumer confidence in Missouri agriculture and provide global marketing opportunities for the state’s producers.

ASAP is a verification program that champions Missouri farmers who are responsible stewards of the land. It’s meant to acknowledge and reward those who proactively protect the environment, employ sound management practices and use science-based technology to produce safe food, fuel and fiber for consumers.

I spoke with the Missouri Director of Agriculture, Richard Fordyce, to learn more about how producers throughout the state can get involved and how the program puts them on a more competitive playing field. “It’s a great opportunity to communicate to our trading partners and consumers about what we are doing. They will literally jump with joy that we are doing this. We are very positive that this is going to be a really good thing for Missouri.”

Learn more about Missouri’s efforts to highlight how their farmers and ranchers are producing sustainable and responsible products at www.asap.farm and in my complete interview with Richard. Interview with Richard Fordyce, Missouri Department of Agriculture


Ag Groups, Farming, Livestock, Sustainability

Democrats Webb, O’Malley Tout Support for Ag, Energy

Joanna Schroeder

Democratic hopeful presidential candidates Jim Webb and Martin O’Malley touted their support for ag and energy yesterday during their speeches from the Des Moines Register’s Presidential Soapbox at the Iowa State Fair. They have some fundamental issues in common, including the need for better education and to bring the American dream back to Americans through a stronger economy and better wages. While Webb’s plans were a bit more fluid, O’Malley pitched his very specific 15 point plan to American prosperity. This includes tackling climate change and fostering global sustainably development.

Jim Webb at Presidential SoapboxIn terms of energy Jim Webb supports agriculture and renewable energy. He supports the pipeline and says that reports show environmentally the pipeline is neutral. He said he supports an “all above” energy strategy and that includes nuclear energy. He noted America has the safest, best managed nuclear program in the world and it is “totally” clean.

When asked if he supported the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) he replied that he supported renewable energy. He said Iowa is the perfect example of a place where it can work. He has visited a wind farm and an ethanol plant and said he was impressed with the technological advancements seen in the ethanol industry.

To learn more about why Jim Webb wants to be our next president listen to his speech here: Jim Webb at the Iowa State Fair

Martin O'Malley at Presidential SoapboxDuring the question and answer portion of the speech, O’Malley was asked about renewable energy, in particular the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Power Plan. He advocates for a clean energy grid by 2050 that he says will be “just in the nick of time”. He noted that in Iowa, 30 percent of electricity not only comes from wind energy, but highlighted the fact that multiple wind turbine components are manufactured in the state as well. He touted Hawaii’s goal of 100 percent renewable electricity and California’s 50 percent goal.

O’Malley also stressed that Renewable Energy Portfolios (REPs/RES) and the RFS should not only stay in place, but they should be expanded. He stressed that these are the drivers of American ingenuity in technology development and the next generation of clean energy technologies.

To learn more about why Martin O’Malley wants to be our next president listen to his speech here: Martin O'Malley at the Iowa State Fair

Agribusiness, Audio, Energy, Ethanol, politics

Zimfo Bytes

Talia Goes

Zimfo Bytes

  • The American Royal is switching things up a bit in September with a revamped business event – Boots & Business After Hours, on Wednesday, September 16 at The Gallery in the Power & Light District.
  • Marking the program’s 10th anniversary, the Lodi Winegrape Commission released Lodi Rules for Sustainable Winegrowing – 2015 Report.
  • Good Day’s Work is a web-based business-built by ag professionals for ag professionals-that combines an expanding library of employee safety-training videos with a records-keeping and reporting tool any agribusiness can use to maintain a sound workplace-safety program, with or without a safety specialist on staff.
  • The agricultural economy and the possibility of volatile times ahead will dominate the conversation at the American Bankers Association‘s 2015 National Agricultural Bankers Conference on Oct. 25 -28 at the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, Mo.
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