NCGA Reminds Growers of Feb. 9 Early Registration Deadline for 2006 Commodity Classic (2-8-06)

The early registration period for 10th annual Commodity Classic, the annual convention and trade show of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and the American Soybean Association (ASA), ends Thursday, Feb. 9.

This year’s event is in Anaheim, Calif., March 2-4. Attendees save $25 off the full registration package, which includes access to the trade show, the General Session, learning center and WIN sessions, the NCGA or ASA banquets and the Evening of Entertainment.

“Commodity Classic is only 21 days away, and we urge growers to take advantage of the early registration price,” said Gene Youngquist, Commodity Classic co-chairman. “The full registration package gives growers to enjoy all three days of this premier agricultural convention.”

The 2006 Commodity Classic is sure to be a great event, Youngquist said. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns will make his second appearance at Commodity Classic as the keynote speaker. Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty will participate in a lively discussion on renewable fuels. Dr. Jay Lehr will give a presentation on agriculture and the environment. And three country music stars—Lorrie Morgan, Michael Martin Murphey and Michael Peterson—will take the stage to entertain the crowds. California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has also been invited to participate in the renewable fuels discussion with Gov. Pawlenty.

Special events specifically for corn growers include:

March 1
NCGA issues briefing, 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
NCGA open forum and policy discussion, 1:45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
CornPAC auction, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
March 2
NCGA Corn Congress, 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
March 3
National Corn Yield Contest state winners awards breakfast, 7 a.m. – 9 a.m.
National Corn Yield Contest national winners awards banquet, 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
March 4
NCGA Corn Congress, 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

NCGA will have a booth on the trade show floor. Growers will be able to send personalized messages to their members of Congress, urging them to pass the Water Resources Development Act in 2006 and to continue funding for the corn genome. Those who send a message will receive a whistle in the shape of a wooden boat with the NCGA logo and “Pass WRDA in 2006.” Growers also are eligible to register for a vintage convertible pedal car when they stop by the booth.

For more information about Commodity Classic, please visit www.commodityclassic.com.