Combined Convention and Trade Show of the National Corn Growers Association and American Soybean Association

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information contact:
Gary Bradley, NCGA, 636-733-9004
Bob Callanan, ASA, 314-576-1770

Farmers Expand Their Potential at Commodity Classic

(ST. LOUIS) January 31, 2006 − The 10th Anniversary Commodity Classic, March 2-4, 2006, in Anaheim, Calif., will bring together corn and soybean farmers from across the country who are interested in expanding their knowledge, options and opportunities. Commodity Classic is the annual convention and trade show presented by the American Soybean Association (ASA) and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).

In addition to seminars about production, marketing, management and agriculture issues, this year’s trade show includes more than 600 booths highlighting a wide variety of equipment, products and services that are important to farmers.

“I invite growers to come celebrate Commodity Classic’s 10th Anniversary and Disneyland’s 50th,” said NCGA President Gerald Tumbleson.  “Growers can learn ways they can be more profitable, and have fun at the same time.”

ASA President Bob Metz said, “This year’s Commodity Classic provides an outstanding combination of education sessions, issues updates and industry interaction ─ all designed to help growers expand their opportunities for growth and profitability.”

Noted ag commentator and U.S. Farm Report host John Phipps will once again emcee this year’s General Session. Keynote speaker Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns will share his perspectives on the 2007 farm bill.  Highlighting the event will be country music artist and speaker Michael Peterson, who will inspire the audience with his message of Americans’ duty to country and community.  Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty will discuss the future of renewable fuels in America, and noted agriculture speaker Dr. Jay Lehr will deliver a message that will motivate the agricultural audience and encourage them to spread their message of success. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has been invited to participate in the renewable fuels discussion with Governor Pawlenty.

Another highlight of Commodity Classic will be the “Evening of Entertainment” featuring award-winning, country music star Lorrie Morgan. This four-time female vocalist of the year is one of country music’s most popular and successful female artists. 

Individuals can still pre-register for Commodity Classic through Feb.16 and receive a discount of $25. Online registration is available at www.commodityclassic.com.  

For more information about the 2006 Commodity Classic, and to find out about hotel accommodations, visit www.commodityclassic.com or call 1-636-922-5551.

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The National Corn Growers Association’s mission is to create and increase opportunities for corn growers. NCGA represents nearly 33,000 members, 45 affiliated state organizations and hundreds of thousands of growers who contribute to state checkoff programs. For more information, log on to www.ncga.com.