May 23: The National Corn Growers Association today submitted comments on the impact of the Renewable Fuel Standard to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce in response to their third white paper, “Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Other Environmental Impacts.” In these comments, NCGA addressed how the RFS has decreased greenhouse gas emissions from the nation’s vehicle fleet while leading to innovations that have made U.S. agriculture more sustainable and …

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May 22: As public awareness of the many economic and energy security benefits ethanol offers continues to grow, demand for higher blends of ethanol is also on the rise. This month, Wisconsin became the sixth state to offer E15 as a fuel option for consumers. With E15 already available in Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska and South Dakota, American drivers now have more choices at the fuel pump across a greater …

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Apr. 23: Late yesterday, the National Corn Growers Association submitted comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency supporting the Renewable Fuel Standard and incentives issued to auto manufacturers for Flex Fuel Vehicle production. These comments, which were submitted in response to EPA’s Draft Guidance for E85 Flexible Fuel Vehicle Weighting Factors, expressed concern that the Agency’s proposal does not adequately incentivize the automobile manufacturers to continue building FFVs after the …

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Apr. 10: Today, a group of House members introduced legislation calling for changes to the renewable fuel standard. Led by Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.), the legislation, called the "RFS Reform Act," would eliminate the corn-based ethanol requirements and would cap the amount of ethanol that can be blended into conventional gasoline at 10 percent. It would require the EPA to set cellulosic biofuel levels at production levels. National Corn Growers …

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Apr. 5: Last week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released the proposed “Control of Air Pollution from Motor Vehicles: Tier 3 Motor Vehicle Emission and Fuel Standards” as an update to the Tier 2 fuel emission regulations released in 2000. These standards increase the level of stringency with which vehicle emissions are regulated with the goal of decreasing air pollution. While these more stringent regulations on sulfur, nitrogen oxide and …

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Mar. 4: Delegates to the National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Congress policy meeting and corn growers elsewhere during the 2013 Commodity Classic last week talked up the importance of defending the Renewable Fuel Standard and getting a smart and strong five-year farm bill passed this year after the numerous delays of 2012.

At a time when corn yields are still rising strong, the importance of protecting a growing market …

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Feb. 28: Today, the Commodity Classic Trade Show opened, showcasing the latest farming products and innovations. With opening remarks by National Corn Growers Association Joint Venture Committee 2013 Co-Chair Mark Schwiebert closing the ribbon cutting ceremony along with his American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers and National Sorghum Producers counterparts and Jessica Simmons, the Corporate Communications Lead for Monsanto, the show flung open its doors and welcomed farm …

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Feb. 22: American Ethanol announced its plans to enhance its partnership with Richard Childress Racing and driver Austin Dillon for the 2013 NASCAR® season. Dillon will race the No. 33 American Ethanol Chevrolet in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series™ at Michigan International Speedway on June 16 and will drive a RCR-fielded entry in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series™ at Eldora Speedway on July 24 with an American Ethanol paint …

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Feb. 13: Last night, the Fuels America coalition, of which the National Corn Growers Association is one of the founding members, released the following statement on President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address:

“Tonight, President Obama laid out an agenda that includes cutting our dependence on oil, fighting climate change and creating jobs. The current administration has been a long-­time supporter of renewable fuel, which can help meet all three …

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Feb. 7: In a panel presentation this week, National Corn Growers Association CEO Rick Tolman highlighted the importance of the Renewable Fuel Standard to help increase and guarantee a vibrant domestic renewable fuel market.

“We cannot underestimate the importance of the RFS,” Tolman said. “It cut imported oil and serves as the basis for investment in infrastructure growth. It’s the single biggest reason for the prosperity across all of agriculture since …

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Jan. 24: Corn-based ethanol may offer significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions than previously believed. This realization comes following the release of a recent study performed by U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers showing that corn grown using no-till methods may sequester larger amounts of carbon more deeply than previously known.

The study, which was published in BioEnergy Research, revealed that corn grown over a 10-year period using no-till practices sequesters …

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 Jan. 23: A barrier impeding the rapid export growth of U.S. distiller's dried grains with solubles came down earlier this month as the ethanol co-product gained official classification as a non-hazardous cargo. The reclassification, which became final and mandatory under the code of the International Maritime Organization on Jan. 1, 2013, was the culmination of a process initiated by the U.S. Grains Council, of which the National Corn Growers Association …

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Jan. 14:  The political landscape in Washington changed with the November elections, including that for ethanol. In the past few months, Congress has seen fewer corn advocate members added to the freshman class and also to key committees such as the House Energy and Commerce Committee. In addition, shortly before Christmas, the White House announced the departure of EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson. It will be critical that the National Corn …

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Jan. 8: Last week, the U.S. Grains Council, of which the National Corn Growers Association is a founding member, announced an important milestone in the growth of U.S. distillers dried grains with solubles exports. According to the Ministry of Finance Customs, Japan imported more than 384,000 metric tons of U.S. DDGS between January and October 2012, marking the highest imports on record.

“The growth of U.S. DDGS exports to …

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Dec. 27: The National Corn Growers Association thanks Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson for acting on the Obama Administration’s commitment to ethanol and other biofuels during her tenure. This statement comes on the heels of today’s public announcement of her forthcoming resignation in January.

“Administrator Jackson worked with NCGA to support the ethanol industry and promote science-based regulations during her tenure,” said NCGA Chairman Garry Niemeyer, a farmer …

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Dec. 6:  The E15 blend of ethanol. Food and fuel. Energy security. Jobs in rural America. There is a lot of discussion about ethanol these days, and plenty of need for a look at the facts. That’s why the National Corn Growers Association has created the EthanolFacts.com website as a simple place to get the facts and links to a lot more information about our favorite domestic renewable fuel.

Dec. 5: American Ethanol congratulates spokesman and driver Austin Dillon on being named 2012 NASCAR® Nationwide Series Sunoco Rookie of the Year. Now, fans have an opportunity to congratulate Dillon personally too during the American Ethanol live Twitter chat which Dillon will host next week from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. CST Monday, Dec. 10.

“All of the American Ethanol partners are so excited for Austin,” said National Corn Growers …

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Nov. 30:  The National Corn Growers Association submitted the following letter to the editor of USA Today in response to a story about the American Automobile Association’s position on the safety of E15 for cars and trucks.  Click here for more information on how E15 is one of the most tested fuels available.

“While controversy makes a better story than tried-and-true facts, the November 30 story about the American …

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Nov. 29: The National Corn Growers Association recently joined the Urban Air Initiative, an organization that promotes the human health and environmental benefits of ethanol.  Focusing on ways to reduce the impact of particulate matter emitted from automobiles, UAI brings a new coalition of partners together to support government standards that recognize the important role ethanol plays in lowering these harmful emissions.

“Joining UAI will benefit corn farmers by …

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Nov. 28:  The following is a statement from National Corn Growers Association President Pam Johnson on a report released today by the National Council of Chain Restaurants attacking the Renewable Fuel Standard:

“A half-baked report from the lobbyists for chain restaurants does not serve up an accurate picture of ethanol’s impact when it comes to boosting jobs in rural America, lowering fuel prices or helping increase energy independence by …

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Nov. 16: National Corn Growers Association President Pam Johnson released the following statement in response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s announcement to deny the request to waive the Renewable Fuel Standard:

“The National Corn Growers Association supports the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to deny the Renewable Fuel Standard waiver request.  We believe Administrator Jackson appropriately recognized petitioners did not properly prove severe nationwide economic harm had occurred thereby creating …

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Oct. 24: State corn associations across the country are working diligently to make the increased use of higher ethanol blends a reality through programs to put the necessary infrastructure in place. Laying the groundwork for a shift toward greater use of the domestically produced, environmentally friendly biofuel, a wide variety of programs currently underway will help fuel tomorrow with E15 and midlevel blends while providing easier E85 access for …

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Oct. 19: The high performance benefits of American Ethanol will be on full display in Kansas City and national television as renowned NASCAR® driver Kenny Wallace hits the track Saturday in the No. 99 American Ethanol car.

Wallace will pilot the RAB Racing with Brack Maggard entry in the Kansas Lottery 300 from Kansas Speedway. Televised coverage begins at 3 p.m. Central on ESPN, with NASCAR Nationwide Series™ qualifying round …

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Oct. 11:  In comments submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today, the National Corn Growers Association expressed strong support for the Renewable Fuel Standard and noted that granting a waiver at this point would be premature.

“NCGA and our member associations have long supported the RFS2, including the waiver provision process,” wrote NCGA President Pam Johnson, an Iowa corn grower.  In response to a 2008 waiver request, EPA …

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Oct. 5:  With significant advancements in research and experience in feeding U.S. distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS), the U.S. Grains Council has released a third edition of A Guide to Distiller's Dried Grains with Solubles.

"When you look at the increased breadth of knowledge surrounding U.S. DDGS, plus the new types of DDGS, we believe this edition will help buyers and end users stay up-to-date on this high-quality …

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Oct. 3:  There are less than two weeks left before the National Corn Growers Association’s “Ethanol Rocks” contest deadline Monday, Oct. 15. High school and college students from all backgrounds and majors are eligible to enter individually, as a group or through student organizations such as agriculture or science clubs, FFA, 4-H or art and film classes.

“We are looking for a forward looking take on how corn ethanol …

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Sept. 27: The National Corn Growers Association joined forces with a large coalition of advanced and traditional renewable fuel stakeholders that launched today to defend America’s Renewable Fuel Standard and its benefits to our nation’s economy, domestic energy supply and national security. The new coalition, Fuels America, spans the full spectrum of agriculture, national security, renewable energy and other stakeholders.

“In joining Fuels America, NCGA joins a broad spectrum …

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By Garry Niemeyer, NCGA President -

Ethanol is a winner. This remarkable fuel, that happens to be made from corn, has been asked to be many things since it first emerged in the marketplace in the late 1970s. Remarkably, this domestically produced fuel has met all the challenges offered on every level.

Reduce our dependence on expensive foreign petroleum? Check! Improve air quality by reducing emissions of CO2 …

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Sept. 14: This weekend, American Ethanol hits the track in Chicago to educate NASCAR attendees and viewers about the many benefits of E15. The National Corn Growers Association, the Illinois Corn Growers Association, the Illinois Corn Marketing Board and Growth Energy will work together to promote the benefits of this sustainable, domestically-produced fuel blend through a display on the midway.  Here, consumers will learn more about ethanol and the …

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Sept. 10:  As the entry deadline nears for the National Corn Growers Association’s Ethanol Rocks video contest, FFA Advisor Alaina Holdgrafer has what it takes to help Mediapolis, Iowa, high school students give their take on the advantages of corn ethanol. She is now the proud owner of an NCGA backpack filled with goodies, including a Sony HandyCam, and a lot of information about ethanol, which she won recently …

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Aug. 30: This week, the Environmental Protection Agency started the 30-day comment period on the waiver request of the Renewable Fuel Standard.  Today, NCGA President Garry Niemeyer sent a letter to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson requesting an additional 30-day extension, citing harvest and the uncertainty of this year’s corn crop.

“Across the nation our members are beginning harvest, one of the busiest times of the year,” Niemeyer wrote.  “Given …

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August 23:  In celebration of the agricultural industry’s annual migration to the Farm Progress Show next week in Boone, Iowa, the National Corn Growers Association is inviting show attendees to stop by the Iowa Corn Growers Association booth to learn about what NCGA and its state affiliate are doing for their members.

“With school starting, NCGA is taking this opportunity to reach out to high school and college students, …

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Aug. 21: The National Corn Growers Association has supported a study that will be released this fall, reporting that supplementing cattle feed with corn stover actually decreases the amount of greenhouse gases created during corn ethanol production.  This study, by Life Cycle Associates, was designed to assess the impact on the carbon intensity, as measured by greenhouse gas emissions, of a corn ethanol pathway by taking into account the …

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Aug. 17:  The U.S. Appeals Court ruled today to dismiss a lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for its approval of E15. The National Corn Growers Association is pleased with the decision and supports the use of E15 for vehicles of model year 2001 or newer.  The original suit was filed by petroleum, engine, and grocery trade associations claiming the new ethanol and gasoline blend would cause damage …

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Aug. 1: Corn supply projections, research regarding the environmental impact of corn production as well as new efforts to expand uses for corn were topics for discussion when the National Corn Growers Association’s Ethanol Committee met in Washington recently.

While drought-reduced yields in the 2012 crop have gotten the attention of many elected officials in Washington, the longer-term vision of the Ethanol Committee reflected optimism for future corn production …

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July 30:  National Corn Growers Association President Garry Niemeyer released the following statement in response to the drought and the call by some for the EPA to waive provisions of the Renewable Fuel Standard.

“NCGA stands firm in its support of the Renewable Fuel Standard and will strongly oppose legislation to alter or repeal the RFS. Likewise, we believe it is premature for a waiver of the RFS provisions …

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July 19:  National Corn Growers Association President Garry Niemeyer released the following statement in response to media coverage and Capitol briefings on the drought, food prices and the Renewable Fuel Standard.

“This is a time when farmers and ranchers are suffering the nation’s worst drought in years, covering nearly two-thirds of our country’s land mass. Like any crisis, it has led to numerous inaccuracies and exaggerations, especially when it …

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July 2: Last weekend, American Ethanol raced into the Kentucky spotlight as spokesman Austin Dillon triumphed with a first-place finish in the NASCAR Nationwide Series Race.  Immediately following the victory, which pushed Dillon into first-place in the overall standings for the series, he thanked his sponsors for their support, mentioning American Ethanol by name.

“While it is always exciting to see how NASCAR fans are …

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June 25: Last week, the National Corn Growers Association took part in intensive discussions on the future of ethanol with key participants from groups representing the ethanol industry, the oil industry, auto emissions concerns, retailers and consumers during the Next Generation Engine and Fuels Forum.  Held in Washington, the conference looked at the future of a variety of fuels and the engines needed to move our nation forward.

“Leaving …

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June 18:  Corn Growers and American Ethanol were out in force at Michigan International Speedway this weekend, with the American Ethanol Green Flag literally and figuratively flying high. Because growers and the American Ethanol team distributed 3,000 flags to campers prior to the races, it was impossible to miss the E15’s presence at during the weekend.

“It was a terrific weekend to be at the races,” said NCGA President …

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June 7: This week, the National Corn Growers Association helped attendees of an Ethanol Industry 101 workshop explore the history of national politics as they relate to ethanol. This session, which covered political discourse from the initial development of the first Renewable Fuel Standard through the expiration of the blender tax credit, provided attendees with the background necessary to fully grasp the impact of Washington politics on the ethanol …

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By Garry Niemeyer, NCGA President:

My fellow farmers,

Sometimes it is easy to become the victim of your own success.  I think our industry has more than a bit of that going on right now, and this has me terribly concerned.

Times are pretty good right now on the farm.  Prices are relatively high and we have seen significant increases in yields and reductions in chemical and fertilizer …

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June 6: The National Corn Growers Association hopes that members and ethanol agvocates alike will join in the festivities as the Illinois Corn Marketing Board partners with Growth Energy to promote awareness of American Ethanol at the newly announced American Ethanol 225.  This race, which will be held at the Chicagoland Speedway on Saturday, July 21, is part of the 2012 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and represents the …

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June 1: The National Corn Growers Association urges members to tune in and show their support for American Ethanol as Austin Dillon races into the spotlight this weekend, making his first Nationwide Series start at Dover International Speedway.  Driving the Richard Childress Racing No. 3 Chevrolet, Dillon will again bring attention to NASCAR’s switch to E15 sporting a special paint out in the black and green colors of American …

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May 31: This week, the National Corn Growers Association brought together representation from state corn associations, members of its Ethanol Committee and various other stakeholders to discuss the importance of ethanol both to farmers and the country as a whole. 

With a full day of presentations on upcoming events in the industry and expert analysis, participants discussed short-, intermediate- and long-term goals which will be used to help NCGA …

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By Garry Niemeyer, President, National Corn Growers Association:  

May 24:  In late 2010, with our support, NASCAR announced it was switching to a 15 percent ethanol blend in all races starting with the 2011 season. We at the National Corn Growers Association and our allies in the ethanol industry saw a tremendous opportunity to spotlight the importance of ethanol and the E15 blend. With the second year of …

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By Rick Tolman, NCGA Chief Executive Officer:

May 18:  Two pieces of research that were dropped this week and then picked up in the mainstream  media clearly demonstrate that there’s something off in the way research is (1) conducted, (2) summarized, and (3) reported to the public. None of this surprises us; as an organization that often must deal with controversy, we’ve seen it all before and there …

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May 18: The National Corn Growers Association, an Official Partner of NASCAR®, is excited to provide its members with exclusive access to a website designed especially for NCGA members. NASCAR FUEL FOR MEMBERS provides opportunities to win hundreds of prizes, purchase discounted race tickets and receive hundreds of dollars in savings from many top brands.

NCGA members can sign up simply going to www.ncga.com/racing and registering today to become …

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May 15:  America’s growing use of domestically produced ethanol reduced wholesale gasoline prices by an average of $1.09 per gallon in 2011, according to updated research conducted by economics professors at the University of Wisconsin and Iowa State University.  The 2011 results, which are up from an average impact of $0.89 per gallon in 2010, were released today by the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development. To our nation’s …

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May 10: This week, Representatives John Shimkus (R-Ill.) and Collin Peterson (D-Minn.) sent an email and fact sheet refuting allegations about corn ethanol made by several of their colleagues.  The National Corn Growers Association applauds their efforts to supply their colleagues with accurate information about the importance of both the Renewable Fuels Standard and corn ethanol to our nation.

“On behalf of NCGA’s more than 37,000 farmer-members, I thank …

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May 4: In a continued effort by the administration to support the biofuels industry, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack has called on petroleum companies to increase the percentage of ethanol in America’s gas tanks by adopting E15.  The Environmental Protection Agency approved the blend as a fuel option for most vehicles in 2010, and once the blend becomes commercially available, it will support the ethanol industry’s efforts to help …

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May 3:  As the E15 ethanol fuel blend prepares for its national debut, the National Corn Growers Association calls on students to channel their “inner Spielberg” and submit entries in the Ethanol Rocks video contest.

“Today, we’re distributing Ethanol Rocks video contest application and rules packets online and to FFA chapters and members of the National Science Teachers Association,” said Chad Willis, chairman of NCGA’s Ethanol Committee. “Statistics and …

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Apr. 30: Congress returned home this week to spend some much-needed time meeting with and listening to the voters that elected them into office.  Now is the perfect time for growers to reach contact their members of Congress and remind them why the Renewable Fuel Standard is important to all Americans, such as by saving money at the gas station.

“Corn ethanol plays a pivotal role in America’s fight …

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Apr. 24: The American ethanol industry stands on the brink of bridging the final federal hurdle to E15 availability after three years of concerted efforts.  As of today, 99 ethanol producers have joined together to fund a nationwide fuel survey which will satisfy the final requirement of the partial E15 waiver granted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

“The National Corn Growers Association applauds the ethanol industry for this …

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Apr. 20: This Sunday, NASCAR, Kansas Speedway and several of NASCAR’s Official Partners will showcase the environmental sustainability programs that take place each week at racetracks across the country in celebration of Earth Day.  These efforts, taking place every day and at NASCAR races year-round, are part of the sport’s NASCAR Green initiative which shows the value NASCAR places upon the environment through real-world, sustained action.

The National Corn …

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Apr. 13: Rev your engines! American Ethanol will race onto the scene at the Texas Motor Speedway as a group of unique visitors and millions of avid fans alike watch Austin Dillon’s No. 3 car fly by proudly displaying a full American Ethanol paint out.  To promote the benefits of higher-blend ethanol, including the E15 blend fueling every car in every race for NASCAR again this year, the National …

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Apr. 9: In a country largely dependent on oil exports, the ethanol industry is often maligned and a large target of contention and discomfort in Saudi Arabia. However, as Venezuela overtook Saudi Arabia to become the owner of the largest share of the world’s known oil reserves in 2011, Saudis are now focusing on the need to diversify their economy, with agriculture garnering significant interest as a new revenue …

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Apr. 2: Young ethanol enthusiasts and aspiring actors alike should start shoring up scripts and collecting cameras to create entries for a new video contest created by the National Corn Growers Association’s Ethanol Committee today.  This opportunity will ask high school and college students to create a video that, in two minutes or less, showcases five facts about ethanol for submission between contest opening in early May and the …

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Apr. 2:  At a time when gas prices are on the rise, the approval today by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency of E15 blended fuel, with 15 percent ethanol, is a good milestone of progress for the industry and a boon to the U.S. economy, according to the National Corn Growers Association. Today, EPA approved the first applications for registering ethanol for use in making E15; however, there are …

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Mar. 27:  The National Corn Growers Association has joined forces with biofuels organizations and renewable energy advocates to highlight the role the Renewable Fuel Standard plays in moderating gasoline prices, reducing foreign imports, and supporting the advanced and cellulosic biofuels sector.

In a letter sent to Congressional leaders today, NCGA, the American Coalition for Ethanol, Advanced Ethanol Council, Biotechnology Industry Organization, Growth Energy, Renewable Fuels Association, 25x’25 Alliance and …

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Mar. 21:  With gas prices again on the rise throughout the United States, many consumers are driving less or switching to cars and trucks that use less fuel. And gas is certainly on the rise for some time to come, with the U.S. Energy Information Agency estimating the average retail cost of gasoline to be $3.79 per gallon in 2012 and $3.72 per gallon in 2013. Some areas of …

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Mar. 12: This weekend marked major milestones for both NASCAR driver Austin Dillon and the American Ethanol partnership as the 21-year-old sensation made his first Nationwide Series start at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway while sporting an American Ethanol paint out on his No. 3 Chevrolet Impala.  Born a racer, son of former driver and RCR general manager Mike Dillon and grandson of Richard Childress, Dillon shone a spotlight on his developing …

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Feb. 24: The 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series launches this weekend as drivers compete in the Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500, which will again be fueled by Sunoco Green E15.  The ethanol-blend fuel also celebrates a milestone as NASCAR enters its second full season of races in which every car in all three series will again get the power to compete from this domestically-produced, sustainable biofuel. From fuel port …

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Feb. 22:  The ethanol story, fully told, would showcase every aspect of NCGA – the dedication of thousands of grower members, the strategic thinking, state level initiatives, policy work, research, infrastructure, sustainability, even aspects of NCGA’s biotechnology effort – and it would take a whole book.

Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, an ethanol supporter since the 1970s, remembers some of the earliest corn grower efforts to promote ethanol: “They …

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Feb. 17:  Trevor Bayne, the unlikely 2011 Daytona 500 winner, kicks off the 2012 NASCAR season today with the American Ethanol green flag in his hand. Bayne will drive his No. 21 Wood Brothers Ford over a section of the old Daytona Beach course to the track's former north turn. Following a news conference, Bayne will continue on to the speedway, where he'll present the American Ethanol green flag …

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Feb. 14:  The National Corn Growers Association, in conjunction with the Illinois Corn Growers Association and the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, has filed comments with the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration outlining several concerns with the proposed Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards. 

“We are concerned that the proposed CAFE/GHG rule is inconsistent with the RFS2 regulation and the EISA requirement to use 36 billion …

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Feb. 13:  This week, the U.S. Grains Council, a sister organization to the National Corn Growers Association that develops export markets for U.S. corn, barley, grain sorghum and related products, meets in Panama for its annual membership meeting, and a new chart provided by USGC shows how much the global corn supply has grown in previous years to meet all needs worldwide.

“Total corn use outside the United States …

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Feb. 10:  The National Corn Growers Association’s Ethanol Committee met in Kansas City, Mo., this week to review programs to promote legislation and support opportunities that foster this important market. With guest speakers including PRX economist Bill Hudson and representatives from the farm machinery and aromatics industries, the attendees updated themselves on the latest information on the markets and opportunities while staff provided input on the legislative climate in …

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By Rick Tolman

CEO, National Corn Growers Association

Feb. 10:  A writer for Fortune magazine appears to want to make his journalistic fortune with stories that betray a lack of preparation, depth and balance. What else would explain a recent article on ethanol that is one-dimensional, one-sided and full of personal opinions and petty biases?

The only source the reporter cites in his page-long screed in the Feb. …

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Feb. 7:  The House Science Committee passed a piece of legislation today that will require the Environmental Protection Agency to conduct additional testing on E15 before allowing use of the blend. H.R. 3199 is sponsored by James Sensenbrenner(R-WI) and includes an additional six cosponsors. The legislation was passed by a vote of 19-7.

“NCGA is disappointed to see the House Science Committee vote in favor of a piece of legislation …

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Jan. 25:  National Corn Growers Association Chairman Bart Schott released the following statement in response to President Obama’s State of the Union address Tuesday night, where the president called for an “all-of-the-above” policy to promote domestic energy.

“The National Corn Growers Association is pleased to hear President Obama’s continued commitment to the nation’s energy independence during his State of the Union address. Corn farmers and the American ethanol industry …

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Jan. 23: In a nod to its commitment to the sport, the American Ethanol partnership, which includes the National Corn Growers Association, on Saturday announced that it will continue relationships with Richard Childress Racing and RAB Racing for the 2012 season.

Austin Dillon, 2011 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Champion, will drive the No. 3 Chevrolet during the 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series season with American Ethanol serving as the …

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Jan. 17:  As auto makers retool engines to maximize gas mileage while minimizing emissions to meet future Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ) standards, a new study reveals that ethanol provides the higher-octane these high-efficiency engines require while remaining both affordable and environmentally friendly. 

The study, conducted by AVL, a global leader in the development of powertrain engines with internal combustion systems, was funded in part by the National Corn …

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Dec. 30: A judge in Federal District Court in Fresno, California, has sided with America's ethanol industry in ruling that the State of California's Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) is unconstitutional. Judge Lawrence J. O'Neill agreed with the arguments that the LCFS is in violation of the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

“This ruling reaffirms our position that the state of California violated the U.S. Constitution when it …

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Dec. 15: The U.S. Grains Council continued efforts to educate Chinese feed ingredient buyers about the many advantages of dried distillers grains from the United States. DDGS, an ethanol coproduct, act as a competitively priced, environmentally friendly source of protein for animals and present an excellent opportunity for both ingredient buyers and ethanol producers alike.

The Council, of which the National Corn Growers Association is a founding member, held …

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Nov. 21: Last week, representatives of the National Corn Growers Association attended the NASCAR Green Summit in Miami Beach, Fla. The day-long meeting, held in advance of the season-finale races at Homestead-Miami Speedway, highlighted the sport’s environmentally responsible efforts, and brought together the stakeholders to share ideas on furthering this green movement.

NCGA played an integral role, through the American Ethanol partnership, in NASCAR’s most visible green initiative this …

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Nov. 15: This week, the National Corn Growers Association participated in a roundtable that brought experts from various areas within agriculture to Kansas City for a discussion of upcoming issues that will impact agriculture. Focusing on issues such as the sustainability of utilizing corn stover as a biofuels feed stock, increasing grain exports from the Black Sea region and the future of ethanol, these discussions helped both the host …

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Oct. 31: American Ethanol raced into the spotlight again this weekend at the Martinsville Speedway as last week’s winner, American Ethanol spokesman Clint Bowyer, was presented with the Green Flag Restart Award, which he won last week in addition to the first-place trophy. This prize, also sponsored by American Ethanol, goes to the driver recording the fastest average speed on restarts and finishing the race in the lead lap. …

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Oct. 26: The American Ethanol coalition announced today that the No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet race car will feature a special-edition American Ethanol paint scheme at this weekend’s Martinsville Speedway NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. This car will be driven by American Ethanol spokesman and recent Talladega race winner, Clint Bowyer. Millions of TV viewers will be seeing the American Ethanol brand, as the sporty black, silver and green …

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Oct. 5: The National Corn Growers Association today urged members of Congress to oppose legislation introduced by Reps. Bob Goodlatte (R-VA) and Jim Costa (D-CA) that would significantly weaken the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS).

“The U.S. ethanol industry is an integral part of job creation and economic opportunity throughout rural America,” NCGA President Garry Niemeyer said. “This legislation would put progress made by the ethanol industry in jeopardy and …

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Sept. 21: Since the February Daytona 500, Americans with questions about ethanol’s performance characteristics have been getting answers at NASCAR races nationwide. Every driver from Dale Jr. to Clint Bowyer, in all three NASCAR racing series has been running on a 15 percent ethanol blend. Today, NASCAR confirmed what millions of viewers have seen by officially announcing mid-level ethanol blends have now demonstrated their high-performance for more than one …

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Sept. 14:  As the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy and Poultry held a hearing today examining the availability of feed and its effect on the livestock industry, the National Corn Growers Association submitted a statement for the record that reminded critics we don’t need to choose between using corn for feed or fuel.

“Corn fuels nations around the world, as a food ingredient, a feedstock, a fuel, …

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Sept. 9: The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing more than $11.6 million in grants to more than 900 agricultural producers and rural small businesses to implement renewable energy and energy efficiency measures. While all of these grants aim to improve rural economies, many will directly impact corn farmers as a portion of the funds are designated for the installation of blender pumps, which allow customers the choice to …

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A recent update to the Department of Energy’s Billion Ton Study, which was first conducted in 2005, reaffirms that America has the biomass resources needed to meet oil and other fossil fuel replacement goals outlined in the 2007 Energy Bill’s Renewable Fuel Standard 2.

For a full copy of the DOE analysis, click here.

Stating that there are sufficient biomass feedstocks to meet expanded renewable fuel standard, the study …

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Aug. 9: NASCAR drove ethanol into the spotlight again last weekend at the Iowa Speedway as Nationwide series drivers raced to victory powered by Sunoco Green E15, a 15 percent ethanol blend, during the U.S. Cellular 250 in Newton, Iowa, presented by Enlist Weed Control. American Ethanol and Iowa Corn took the spotlight during these festivities as Kenny Wallace’s No. 09 car featured unique artwork promoting the organizations.

“Kenny …

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July 29: Working with a coalition of renewable energy and agriculture advocates, the National Corn Growers Association signed a letter sent to all members of the House of Representatives this week, urging opposition to amendments that would weaken efforts to reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign oil and cost U.S. jobs.

In addition to NCGA, the letter was signed by Growth Energy, Advanced Ethanol Council, American Coalition for Ethanol, …

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July 27:  A study published in the July 2011 Biomass and Bioenergy Journal on indirect land use change (ILUC) due to biofuels production indicates that the real impact of U.S. biofuels production on ILUC domestically and internationally is negligible or nonexistent.

The study, “Indirect land use change for biofuels: Testing predictions and improving analytical methodologies” was coauthored by Drs. Seungdo Kim and Bruce E. Dale of Michigan State University. …

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July 19: According to reports released by the USDA this month and data supplied by PRX, domestic and international livestock continues to be the No. 1 use for U.S. corn, totaling approximately 7.7 billion bushels per year. An estimated 1.5 billion bushels of corn, or 80 percent of projected U.S. corn exports, is used for feed overseas in the past year. Additionally, U.S. livestock consume totals 6.2 billion bushels, …

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National Corn Growers Association President Bart Schott released the following statement in response to today’s announcement of a bipartisan compromise on ethanol tax incentives. Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) have tirelessly led efforts on behalf of the ethanol industry for the past several weeks.

“NCGA is grateful to Senators Thune and Klobuchar for the hard work and dedication they have put in to reaching a final …

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July 6: If you were a Congressional subcommittee and you were going to hold a hearing "Examining the Science Behind E15," whom would you invite to testify? Would you invite some of the researchers that looked into how E15 and other mid-level blends work in automotive engines? Would you invite the ethanol industry to explain why they asked for a waiver so gas stations could offer E15 blends and …

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July 5: As the debate over ethanol policy continues in Washington, reviewing recent research on the subject of ethanol and corn prices may prove insightful especially when one set of ethanol opponents blames the biofuel as the leading cause of higher livestock and poultry feed prices.

“There is a lot of false rhetoric out there about the impact of ethanol policy on corn prices and by extension the price …

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June 29: As Congress discusses possible changes to ethanol tax incentives in the days ahead, the National Corn Growers Association and its allies in the ethanol industry are stressing the common-sense approach of their five-step Ethanol Roadmap as a concrete pathway for the future, especially the importance of the need for market access and infrastructure and consumer choice.

“Americans love being offered choices but when it comes to what …

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June 28:  This morning, National Corn Growers Association CEO Rick Tolman received the High Octane Award, in recognition of his ongoing commitment to and work on behalf of the ethanol industry. The award was presented by BBI International Vice President Tom Bryan during the Fuel Ethanol Workshop and Expo in Indianapolis, Ind.

“I am honored to be recognized by others working tirelessly on behalf of ethanol,” said Tolman. “I …

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The new label for gas pumps that will dispense E15 fuel is an improvement over what the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency initially proposed but remains a cause for concern, the National Corn Growers said Tuesday. EPA established the label requirement when it granted a waiver for E15 to be used in cars of model years 2001 and newer.

“NCGA supports the use of a label but we are still …

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Last weekend, American Ethanol supporters cheered on Clint Bowyer as he sped into a fourth-place finish during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Toyota/ Save Mart 350. The National Corn Growers Association used the race as an opportunity to highlight the environmental and economic benefits of ethanol to a group of invitees from a broad range of stakeholder groups. The focus on ethanol was generated by the American-Ethanol NASCAR partnership …

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This is the sixth installment of a series featuring interviews with executives from organizations representing corn growers at the state level on the specific issues affecting their growers.

Today, Off the Cob speaks with North Dakota Corn Growers Association Executive Director Tom Lilja for a look at the organizations efforts to provide consumers with both knowledge and choices at the pump. In addition to explaining these efforts, Lilja explains …

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Historically, distiller’s dried grains with solubles has been an unknown product throughout Jordan and the Middle East. Promotion of DDGS in the Middle East has two significant obstacles. Ethanol has been viewed with suspicion as a possible competitor to Middle Eastern oil and DDGS seen as an offshoot of the forbidden alcohol trade.

However, two years of marketing efforts by U.S. grain farmers, bolstered by Market Access Program and …

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The National Corn Growers Association expressed severe disappointment today that the Senate allowed petty politics to trump prudent policy in the fight for the future of the ethanol industry. The passage of Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s amendment to immediately repeal the Volumetric Ethanol Excise Tax Credit represents a tax increase on fuel that will kill jobs in rural America and hit all consumers in the pocketbook, NCGA said.

“Today the …

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The National Corn Growers Association today thanked the many senators who stood up against Sen.Tom Coburn’s amendment to immediately repeal the Volumetric Ethanol Excise Tax Credit. The amendment, which needed 60 votes to pass, failed on the Senate floor with 59 votes against and only 40 votes in favor.

“We greatly appreciate the strong message senators sent Sen. Coburn today by showing him they understand the importance of the …

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Fiscal Year 2011 applications for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Energy for America Program, which provides grants and loan guarantees for equipment improving consumer access to E-85 and mid level ethanol blends, are due Wednesday. With awards announced between July and September, consumers can expect to reap the rewards of this program through increased choices at the pump.

“Ethanol producers are already capable of providing a sustainable, affordable …

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Today, the National Corn Growers Association thanked Sens. John Thune (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) for introducing the Ethanol Reform and Deficit Reduction Act. The legislation, which is co-sponsored by a bipartisan group of 13 senators, would transition the ethanol industry into a variable tax incentive and create additional market access for ethanol by removing existing barriers of consumer choice. Other co-sponsors include Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Mike Johanns …

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Last weekend, more than 100,000 fans, including more than 1,100 American Ethanol supporters, cheered on Clint Bowyer as he drove a special-edition version of his No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet, featuring an American-Ethanol paint scheme, during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series STP 400. More than 500 farmers had the opportunity to get an up-close look at how the American-Ethanol NASCAR partnership provides ethanol many high-profile opportunities to educate …

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KANSAS CITY – When the green flag waves at the Kansas Speedway for this weekend’s NASCAR events, more than 1,100 American Ethanol supporters, including a host of farmers, will be in the stands to cheer on Clint Bowyer, driving a special-edition American Ethanol paint scheme on his No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race.

“There’s no sport more American than NASCAR, and no …

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May 26: The National Corn Growers Association today thanked Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack for his remarks in support of ethanol at the Chicago Council of Global Affairs Symposium on Global Agriculture and Food Security. During the annual symposium, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Vilsack directly confronted false statements blaming ethanol for rising food costs to attendees tasked with evaluating the efforts of private and public …

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The National Corn Growers Association has always believed that ethanol production is good for American agriculture and the economy at large, and now on the global scale we are seeing support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, which this week published a new analysis that supports the claim that biofuels could help improve food security in rural economies.

“Farmers know that ethanol has a …

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After a thorough analysis of empirical evidence, new peer-reviewed research calls into question one of the chief claims of ethanol opponents, the negative impact of so-called “indirect land use change” as a result of corn production for ethanol. To the National Corn Growers Association, this disproves yet another anti-ethanol myth that spread so easily in the mainstream media.

“It’s time for flat-earth ethanol opponents to back off on land …

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May 5: This week, National Corn Growers Association CEO Rick Tolman met with a group of agricultural leaders who were visiting Missouri to explore opportunities in the biofuels industry. At their request, Tolman spoke to the group correcting common misconceptions about ethanol with hard facts and outlining current opportunities for investment in the ethanol industry.

“So often, we find ourselves on the defensive when speaking about ethanol,” Tolman said. …

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May. 2: Last weekend, more than 100,000 NASCAR fans gathered in Richmond, Va. to cheer on their favorite drivers, but these devotees took home more than expected in the form of an education about the many benefits that American ethanol provides. Both Clint Bowyer and Kenny Wallace gave amazing performances which highlight the performance and environmental benefits of the renewable, domestically produced fuel source.

Friday night, Wallace gave …

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Apr. 28: This weekend, fans across the country watching Friday’s NASCAR Nationwide Cup Series race will see Kenny Wallace’s #09 car promoting American Ethanol yet again, with a full-body American Ethanol branding for the second time this season. Tune into the SPEED Channel at 6:30 p.m. CDT to watch the drivers compete at Richmond International Raceway for the ninth race of the 2011 series.

Viewers will learn more about …

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