Agricultural publications summit InfoExpo guide.

Agricultural writers and editors attending the Agricultural Media Summit July 31-Aug. 3 in Milwaukee will find out what's new with leading agriculture companies and organizations. Following is a list of exhibitors attending the InfoExpo, as well as new products and services they will be discussing. Marketing and communications spokespersons will be on hand to provide information and leads on the hottest products and services of the summer. The list is current as of June 21, 2005.

25 X '25- AG ENERGY WORK GROUP Lutherville, Md.

InfoExpo Focus: The Ag Energy Work Group is creating a vision for agriculture's role in ensuring U.S. energy independence. The group believes it is possible for agriculture to contribute 25 percent of the U.S. energy needs by 2025. This "25 x '25" vision is not a picture of food vs. energy; it's a vision of food, fiber and energy. For more information about 25 x '25 or the National Ag Energy Summit, visit www.agenergy.info.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Bill Richards, former chief of the USDA Soil Conservation [e-mail]; Sara Wyant, Agri-Pulse [e-mail]

AGCO Duluth, Ca.

InfoExpo Focus: AGCO Corporation will distribute the 2005 edition of the AGCO Photo Library DVD-AGCO produces a new photo disc each year for the Summit. Images are also available at agcomediaplace.com. AGCO personnel at the exhibit are ready to discuss careers with students and advisers attending the Summit. Spokespersons/contact info.: Allison Bass, media manager; Cheryl Thompson, communications manager, Challenger; Margaret Patterson, communications manager, Parts Division; and Reid Hamre, communications manager-770/813-9200

ALLEN PRESS INC. Lawrence, Kan.

InfoExpo Focus: Allen Press specializes in the printing and distribution of short-to-medium-run length publications and journals. Allen Press is known for print quality and uses a 175-line screen ruling as its standard. In addition to printing and distribution, Allen Press also provides a wide variety of publishing-related services such as composition, copy editing, advertising sales, online publishing, digital archiving, back issue warehousing/ fulfillment and association management. Also, its location near the center of the United States provides distribution advantages.

Spokesperson/contact info.: John Aamot, national sales executive-785/843-1234 ext. 128 or [e-mail]

AMERICAN MEAT INSTITUTE 

AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AGRONOMY/ CERTIFIED CROP ADVISER PROGRAM Madison, Wis.

InfoExpo Focus: The Certified Crop Adviser Program (CCA) is a certification program of the American Society of Agronomy. It is a voluntary program providing a base-level standard through testing and raising that standard through continuing education. Thirty-seven state/regional/provincial boards called "Local Boards" in the United States and Canada administer the program locally. Visit the CCA booth to discuss how our CCAs can help you in reporting agronomic information and to learn how to locate a CCA in your area.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Sara Uttech, program manager, Communications--608/268-4948 or [e-mail]; Certified Crop Adviser (TBD)

AMERICAN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION Washington, D.C.

InfoExpo Focus: Stop by and visit our recently unveiled Newsroom-the best source of agriculture information for journalists.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Tracy Taylor Grondine, director of media relations-202/406-3642 or [e-mail]

THE AUDIT BUREAU OF CIRCULATIONS Shaumburg, IL

InfoExpo Focus: With more than 4,000 members, ABC is the first and largest circulation-auditing organization in the world. Its members include the world's leading magazine and newspaper publishers, advertisers and agencies. ABC maintains the world's foremost electronic database of audited-circulation information and a growing array of verified readership, subscriber demographics and online activity data. ABC offers reports and services in a variety of flexible formats, including print, spreadsheet, CD-ROM and online at www.accessabc.com.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Mark Wacbowicz-847/879-8294; and Gladys Searcy-847/879-8259 or [e-mail]

BASF Research Triangle Park, N.C.

InfoExpo Focus: BASE the global technology leader in the development of tomorrow's crop protection answers and solutions, will provide information on its entire product line, with a special focus on Plant Health[TM]. Featured topics will include: how Headline[R] fungicide helps improve Plant Health in a wide variety of crops, from soybeans and corn to sugar beets, potatoes, peanuts and wheat; Headline SBR fungicide, a new co-pack with tebuconazole for Asian soybean rust prevention; new uses for Outlook[R] herbicide and Pristine[R] fungicide; and updates on Pentia[R] plant regulator, Prowl[R] H20 herbicide, and CLEARFIELD rice, wheat and sunflowers. BASF will also offer on-site registrations to AgMediaCentral.com, an online tool for ag journalists.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Kaye Iftner, communications manager, Corn Belt; and Joy Watson, communications manager, Diversified

BAYER CROPSCIENCE Research Triangle Park, N.C.

InfoExpo Focus: See what's brewing at Bayer CropScience including products for soybean rust, plus five new products: two herbicides, a cotton plant regulator, a miticide and an insecticide.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Stephanie Gable--919/549-2047 or [e-mail]; and Charlie Hale-919/549-2006 or [e-mail]

BOEHRINGER INGELHEIM VETMEDICA INC. St. Joseph, Mo.

InfoExpo Focus: Boebringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. will be providing the latest information regarding its vaccines and other products for the swine industry, including innovative vaccines to control ileitis and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS). Agricultural editors and publishers should stop by the BIVI booth for swine product information and a special 2005 AMS memento.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Bruce Brinkmeyer, senior marketing manager, Swine Division-816/236-2784 or [e-mail]

BOELTE-HALL LITHO Roeland Park, Kan.

InfoExpo Focus: Boelte-Hall is a Kansas City printer offering a rare combination of traditional and large-format printing products and services. Since 1967, Boelte-Hall has provided business-to-business and business-to-consumer printed communications to top companies in the Midwest and beyond. Boelte-Hall's Agri-Marketing Division specializes in magazines, catalogs, directories and promotional materials for breed associations, livestock publications and designers. Boelte-Hall features a computer-to-plate prepress department, one-to-six-color printing presses and a complete bindery with in-house mailing services. The large-format department produces trade show items such as indoor/outdoor banners, snap-ups and tabletop displays, as well as posters, POP displays, event signage, back-lit panels and floor graphics.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Don Norton, Agri-Division Sales-913/766-7726 or [e-mail]; Paul Shanks, Agri-Division Sales-913/766-7723 or [e-mail]; and Rob Giseburt, Prepress Training/ Support-913/766-7708 or [e-mail]

BRANCH SMITH PRINTING Fort Worth, Texas 

InfoExpo Focus: Providing expert solutions for publishers since 1910, Branch Smith Printing specializes in publications, directories, books and catalogs. It provides art and design, digital prepress, 40" sheet-fed presses, saddle stitching and perfect binding, inkjet mailing and fulfillment. BSP has furthered its status as a market leader, winning the 2002 Malcolm Buldrige National Quality Award for performance excellence and quality achievement.

Spokesperson/contact info.: John E Miller, national accounts manager-800/315-4110 or [e-mail]

BROCK ASSOCIATES Milwaukee

InfoExpo Focus: In addition to publishing "The Brock Report" and "Brock Daily Electronic Comments," which provide farmers, agribusinesses and the food industry with price forecasting and market strategies, Brock Associates manages grain sales for farmers and advises food companies on purchasing programs. Staff members are extremely knowledgeable and reputable and can supply agribusiness and publishing firms with a vast range of services from individual articles, quotes or regular columns to daily commentary for Web sites or customized market information services.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Richard Brock, president -414/351-5500 or [e-mail]; Doug Harper, vice president/editorial director-414/351-5500 or [e-mail]; and Teres Lambert, director of marketing-414/351-5500 or [e-mail]

CASE IH Racine, Wis.

InfoExpo Focus: Stop byte pick up your photo CD and link to the Case IH Web Press Room Image Library (www.pressroom.caseih.com/photos). Download free, high-quality, agricultural application images for your use to illustrate stories, ads, presentations and more. The library includes a wide variety of harvest, hay, planting and seeding, spraying, tillage, livestock and grounds maintenance images. On Tuesday you'll also have the opportunity to meet Frank Anglin, the new vice president for Case I H in the U.S. and Canada. Frank can share his perspective on the industry and some of his insights from his previous experience in Australia and New Zealand.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Claudia Garber, director of strategic marketing-262/636-5678 or [e-mail]; and Frank Anglin, vice president, Case IH North American Agricultural Business-262/636-7236 or [e-mail]

CATTLEMEN'S BEEF BOARD & FEDERATION OF STATE BEEF COUNCILS DIVISION OF NCBA Centennial, Colo.

InfoExpo Focus: The Cattlemen's Beef Board administers the national Beef Checkoff Program, while State Beef Councils operate checkoff programs within their respective states. Efforts of the Beef Checkoff Program, including the highly recognized "Beef. It's What's for Dinner" campaign, are aimed at growing consumer demand for beef and beef products and improving beef producers' opportunities for profit.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Monte Reese, chief operating officer for Cattlemen's Beef Board-303/220-9890 or [e-mail]; Bill Ehrke, Wisconsin producer/ Wisconsin Beef Council and CBB [e-mail]; and Diane Henderson, communications manager for Cattlemen's Beef Board--303/220-9890 or [e-mail]

CROPLIFE AMBASSADOR NETWORK St. Louis

InfoExpo Focus: The CropLife Ambassador Network (CAN) assists volunteers from across the agribusiness industry in teaching our youth about the safety and value of the modern farming system, especially crop protection methods. CAN provides volunteers with links to elementary schools and a PowerPoint presentation that can be used as a guide along with an Ag Bag of agricultural products for visuals.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Janet Braun, program coordinator-314/849-9446 or [e-mail]

DAIRYLAND SEED CO. West Bend, Wis.

InfoExpo Focus: Dairyland Seed is a recognized leader in its seed plant breeding programs, spending 15 percent of its annual revenues on research, about twice the industry average. Dairyland is the only U.S. family-owned seed company with plant breeding programs in hybrid alfalfa, soybeans and hybrid corn. It runs the largest independent breeding effort in the industry. The company's soybean research program released the world's first herbicide-tolerant soybeans and recently has brought producers stacked-trait RR/STS[R] soybean varieties for the 2005 growing season, with 12 products available for 2006. In addition, Dairyland germplasm is a key parental component used to develop zero trans fat soybean oil from 1 percent low linolenic soybeans. Soybean research is also under way studying Asian soybean rust and potential naturally resistant varieties. In addition, Dairyland Seed introduced the world's first hybrid alfalfa, HybriForce[R]-400. The company's investment, however, extends beyond the current market hybrids. Dairyland Seed is using the msSunstra[R] Hybrid Alfalfa Technology to continually work to improve alfalfa hybrids, which has brought about the first branched-root hybrid alfalfa and semi-dormant hybrid alfalfas. Dairyland is at the forefront in developing elite corn hybrids to meet the needs of today's producer.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Tom Strachota, CEO-800/236-0163 or [e-mail]; Dr. Paul Sun, vice president of research-608/676-2237 or [e-mail]; Mike Velde, alfalfa plant breeder-608/676-2237 or [e-mail]; and Derry Abraham, alfalfa product manager-920/572-7363 or [e-mail]

DELTA AND PINE LAND COMPANY Scott, Miss.

InfoExpo Focus: Delta and Pine Land Company representatives will be on hand to answer any questions editors have and to help arrange interviews with the company's technical and business leadership as needed.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Janice Person, corporate public relations manager-662/742-4380 or [e-mail]

DOW AGROSCIENCES Indianapolis

InfoExpo Focus: Traits Licensing-Introduction of corn hybrids containing the next generation of traits in the Herculex Insect Protection family-including protection against corn rootworm-is anticipated for the 2006 growing season, pending regulatory approvals; Mycogen Seeds-For the 2006 growing season, Mycogen Seeds will have several new products available to growers including 17 new grain corn hybrids, seven new silage hybrids, eight new sunflower hybrids and eight new soybean varieties. In addition, Mycogen Seeds anticipates offering Herculex[R] RW Rootworm Protection, pending regulatory approvals; and Soybean Rust--Growers continue to have questions regarding the capabilities of soybean rust products--particularly the differences between triazole and strobilurin fungicides. Find out why triazole chemistries receive the greatest market share in South America; whether "plant health" sprays in the absence of soybean rust or secondary diseases improve yield; and why American growers should also look to Bolivia and Argentina as examples for treating soybean rust.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Rosie Pitones-Dunasky, product communications manager--317/337-4571 or [e-mail]; Wally Thingelstad, traits marketing specialist--317/337-7348 or [e-mail]; and Bob Gordon, Dow AgroSciences, U.S. Agriculture-317/337-3969 or [e-mail]

DOW AGROSCIENCES RANGE & PASTURE Indianapolis

InfoExpo Focus: Stewardship of the land presents each rancher and farmer with different challenges and requires different approaches. But it always demands ingenuity and commitment. As co-sponsor of the National Environmental Stewardship Award, Dow AgroSciences is the leading supplier of rangeland and pasture improvement products. Pending regulatory approvals, Dow AgroSciences and its Range & Pasture business anticipate bringing exciting new chemistry to rangeland and pasture management later this year.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Susan Carney, product communications manager--317/337-7919, 561/798-3331 or [e-mail]; Bob Wesolowski, Range & Pasture marketing specialist-317/337-4436 or [e-mail]; and Jason Nelson, Range & Pasture new product specialist--317/337-7519 or [e-mail]

EMERGE INTERACTIVE Ft. Worth, Texas

InfoExpo Focus: eMerge Interactive Inc. is a technology company serving the agricultural, food service and healthcare industries. The company's agricultural products include CattleLog, a suite of products and services that enable livestock producers to record information on their animals for use in source verification, herd improvement and compliance with NAIS requirements. VerifEYE food safety products are used to detect microscopic levels of contamination. Already used in several major packing plants, VerifEYE is on the cutting edge of food safety interventions.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Tim Niedecken, director of information products-817/732-6536 or [e-mail]

FARMS.COM Ames, Iowa/London, Ontario

InfoExpo Focus: Farms.com Ltd. is a leading marketing and information company that provides a wide range of innovative products and services to customers in the global agriculture and food industries. For more than 10 years, the company has grown in these challenging sectors by being steadfastly committed to delivering the knowledge required to improve our customers' businesses. Eight companies make up the Farms.com family. They include M&F Trading, PigCHAMP, AgCareers.com, Farms.com Risk Management, Farms.com Media, AgFreight.com, AgSoftware.com and eHARVEST.com.

Spokespersons/contact info.: JoAnn Alumbaugh, director of communications--641/744-2114 or [e-mail]; Joe Dales, senior vice president and director, Farms.com-877/438-5729 or [e-mail]; and Erika Brandt, central U.S. accounts manager, AgCareers.com--515/233-2551 or [e-mail]

GRANT HEILMAN PHOTOGRAPHY INC. Lititz, Pa.

InfoExpo Focus: Grant Heilman Photography's stock photo library is the world's most noted source for American agriculture images, horticulture, wildlife, lifestyle and much more. The collection contains nearly a million high-quality images available for use in print and/or electronic media. Grant Heilman also is introducing a recently acquired collection of lifestyle and travel images from the California-based Photo Network Stock.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Erika Bender, research consultant--717/626-0296 or [e-mail]; and Scott Bauer, director of communications--717/626-0296 or [e-mail]

HOBART WELDERS Appleton, Wis.

InfoExpo Focus: Hobart will provide a sneak peak at the world's easiest-to-use wire welder. With only a single control knob, the new Handler 125 EZ meets the needs of the hobby farmer getting into welding for the first time or for the handyman who demands simplicity yet wants a top-quality welder with good arc performance.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Ellen Andersen, merchandizing manager-920/735-4033 or [e-mail]

JOHN DEERE Lenexa, Kan.

InfoExpo Focus: John Deere introduces a new 9660 WTS Small Grain Combine and 615P Belt Pickup Platform to its harvesting equipment line. The new combine is specifically designed for growers that need a premium straw management system when harvesting small grains. The 9660 WTS Combine has cylinder/concave threshing and straw walker separation to ensure gentle handling of the crop to deliver high-quality straw. Also, the 615P Belt Pickup Platform is a header designed to harvest bigger windrows with faster ground speeds. It is specifically designed to optimize the productivity of the STS combines.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Barry Nelson, manager of public relations--913/310-8324

LALLEMAND ANIMAL NUTRITION

MANA (MAKHTESHIM AGAN OF NORTH AMERICA INC.) Raleigh, N.C.

InfoExpo Focus: MANA is the North American company of Makhteshim Agan Industries Ltd., Israel, the world's leading manufacturer of generic crop protection products. In the U.S. MANA markets a full range of herbicides, insecticides and fungicides as high-end proprietary products, off-patent branded products and commodity actives for both end-use and formulation. Stop by the booth to learn more about MANA's registrations for Asian soybean rust, its commitment to and defense of key older-chemistry products Diazinon and Endosulfan, and the new Silencer insecticide Freedom Rings Program. MANA also will provide information on its newest products: Orius[TM] fungicide (tebuconazole), Silencer[TM] insecticide (lambda-cyhalothrin), and Alias[TM] and Pasada[TM] insecticides (imidacloprid).

Spokespersons/contact info.: Troy Bettner, product manager-919/256-9311 or [e-mail]; and Kristy Boldt, media relations for Mirsky Associates--215/321-7970 or [e-mail]

MERIAL Duluth, Ga.

InfoExpo Focus: Visit with Merial about strategic parasite control methods for fall. Merial Veterinary Professional Services (VPS) recently launched its new Strategic Husbandry and Research Education (SHARE)initiative, which includes a newsletter to livestock media. Merial provides a comprehensive range of products and services to enhance the health and performance of livestock. Dairy and beef producers count on products like IVOMEC[R] Plus (ivermectin/clorsulon), TETRADURE[TM] 300 (oxytetracycline), DURALEASE[TM], RESPISHIELD[TM] and RELIANT[R] brand vaccines; the MERIAL SURE-HEALTH[TM] calf preconditioning program: and the IGENITY[TM] DNA testing service.

Spokesperson/contact info.: James Hawkins, D.V.M. associate director, Veterinary Professional Services-601/853-8442 or [e-mail]

MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA Greenville, S.C.

InfoExpo Focus: Representatives from Michelin will discuss trends in agricultural tires, the value and benefits of radial tires in agricultural applications and the importance of proper inflation pressures to optimize radial tire performance.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Kevin Lutz, technical manager; and Bill Schafer, vice president of marketing and sales

MILLER ELECTRIC Appleton, Wis.

InfoExpo Focus: Miller will exhibit its new Millermatic DVI, an all-in-one MIG welder with Miller's exclusive dual voltage input feature for location flexibility--the Millermatic DVI accepts either 115 or 230V input power. Miller also will exhibit its eye-catching new auto-darkening welding helmet designs. Auto-darkening helmets make welding easier, especially for the person who welds occasionally. Lastly, Miller will exhibit its Spectrum 625 air plasma arc cutter. For larger farms and ranches that fabricate their own equipment, a plasma cutter works faster and easier than saws or oxy-fuel cutting.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Terri Barry, public relations manager-920/735-4141 or [e-mail]

MODERN LITHO-PRINT Jefferson City, Mo.

InfoExpo Focus: Specializing in partnering with publishers for more than 65 years, Modern Litho-Print offers a full range of printing services. Magazines and journals, newsletters and directories, and conference programs and brochures are all handled under one roof. It also provides digital prepress, up to six-color printing, and a variety of binding options and mailing services.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Tim Steinbeck, account executive--800/456-5867 ext. 210 or [e-mail]; and Kim Neidert, account executive-800/456-5867 ext. 209 or [e-mail]

MONSANTO St. Louis

InfoExpo Focus: This year editors can get an update on Monsanto's work with America's Heartland television series, the 10th season of plant biotechnology, Monsanto's Vistive low-linolenic soybean project and Processor Preferred High Fermentable Corn Hybrids. Editors can also stop by for the latest news on Monsanto trait technologies--YieldGard Corn Borer, YieldGard Rootworm, YieldGard Plus, YieldGard Plus with Roundup Ready Corn 2, Roundup Ready Corn 2, Roundup Ready Alfalfa, Bollgard II and Roundup Ready Flex cotton.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Lee Quarles--314/694-4452 or [e-mail]: and Mica DeLong--314/694-2992 or [e-mail]

THE MOSAIC COMPANY Plymouth, Minn.

InfoExpo Focus: As an industry-leading crop nutrient company, Mosaic is ready with resources on the importance of a fall soil fertility program. Fertilizers such as K-Mag[R] (Sul-Po-Mag) and MicroEssentials[TM] can supply the right nutrients for next year's crops. K-Mag supplies a unique three-in-one combination of 21-22 percent potassium, 10-11 percent magnesium and 21-22 percent sulfur. And, unlike some magnesium and sulfur sources, K-Mag fertilizer is in the water-soluble sulfate form. Meanwhile, MicroEssentials provides nitrogen, P205, sulfur and zinc in every granule. It delivers a high rate of phosphorus with two forms of sulfur: the sulfate form, which is available immediately to developing roots, and the elemental form, which becomes available later in the growing season.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Randy Groff, manager of marketing communications-847/739-1525 or [e-mail]; and Mike Sevey, market development manager-847/622-0690 or [e-mail]

NATIONAL CATTLEMEN'S BEEF ASSOCIATION Denver

InfoExpo Focus: NCBA is the largest organization representing America's cattle industry. Initiated in 1898, NCBA is the industry leader in education, influencing public policy and preserving the heritage and future of cattle producers. NCBA works every day to increase profit opportunities for cattle producers by enhancing the business climate, building consumer demand and fostering growth in the cattle and beef industries. NCBA strives to address all issues of concern to producers and to continue to grow the largest sector of American agriculture.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Glenn Rowe, regional vice president (Lorimar, Iowa)--641/763-2700 or [e-mail]; Joe Schuele, director of trade media-303/850-3360 or [e-mail]; and Curt Olson, director of publications--303/850-3358 or [e-mail]

NATIONAL PORK BOARD Des Moines, Iowa 

InfoExpo Focus: U.S. Pork exports, which are supported by the Pork Checkoff, continue to be a huge success story for pork producers. Exports grew by 27 percent in 2004 and are on pace in 2005 to eclipse that growth. Pork Checkoff promotions continue to support demand growth. The new "Don't be blah" campaign is helping young cooks understand how they can use pork to get out of the rut of bland meals. The Pork Checkoff also is promoting pork in Hispanic markets throughout the United States through foodservice and retail promotions. Pork Checkoff-supported research is paying dividends for producers in areas ranging from animal welfare to sow longevity to food safety to water and air quality, among others. Information from that research provides the foundation of an innovative series of educational courses for producers and their employees. Also, through programs such as the Pork Checkoff's Operation Main Street, producers are taking it upon themselves to tackle tough issues and to demonstrate to their neighbors the value of pork production to their communities and economies.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Mike Wegner, vice president of communications--515/223-2600 or [e-mail]; and Cindy Cunningham, assistant vice president of communications--515/223-2600 or [e-mail]

OPTIBRAND LTD. LLC Fort Collins, Colo.

InfoExpo Focus: Founded in 1998, Optibrand Ltd. LLC is the originator of the world's only retinal scanning system for livestock identification. An internal GPS receiver establishes a time, date and location trail for all animals while the tamper-resistant retinal identification satisfies the most demanding export customers. Optibrand's retinal imaging technology provides producers and regulatory authorities with the ability to underpin and audit the tag-based National Animal Identification System. The universal data collection features allow producers, feedlots, auction markets and harvest plants to use one system to digitally collect any animal data from birth to death.

Spokesperson/contact info.: John Cravens, director of marketing communications-970/490-6022 ext 121 or [e-mail]

PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL Johnston, Iowa

InfoExpo Focus: As your partner in providing useful production and management information to producers and growers, Pioneer invites you to stop by for an update on new products and services. Ask about the new corn biotech traits anticipated in 2006-Herculex RW and Herculex XTRA. Herculex RW is the new Bt trait for protection against corn rootworms. Herculex XTRA is the stacked-trait product, which combines Herculex RW with Herculex I, providing protection against corn rootworm, European and southwestern corn borer, fall armyworm, black cutworm and western bean cutworm. U.S. regulatory approval is expected in the second half of 2005.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Jerry Harrington, sales and marketing public relations manager--800/247-6803 ext. 6908 or jerry.Harrington@pioneer com

PROPANE EDUCATION AND RESEARCH COUNCIL Washington, D.C.

InfoExpo Focus: Visit the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) to learn about new innovations for the use of propane in agriculture.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Mark Leitman, agriculture programs manager

QUEBECOR WORLD

RABOBANK New York, N.Y.

InfoExpo Focus: Rabobank's plan to grow its U.S. farm lending business is one of the most newsworthy developments in ag media these days. With more than a century of ag experience, deep agricultural expertise, more than $600 billion in assets and a AAA credit rating, Rabobank is the lender of choice to agriculture worldwide.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Lynne Burns, director of corporate communications-212/808-2581 or [e-mail]; Mike Martin, vice president of marketing, Rabo AgriFinance-314/687-4000 or [e-mail]; and Lizz Hund, head of corporate banking-212/808-2581

SMITHFIELD FOODS Smithfield, Va.

InfoExpo Focus: Smithfield Foods is recognized as a leader in the food industry, and now the company is earning high marks as a leader in environmental stewardship. In April Smithfield Foods became the first in its industry to achieve the prestigious ISO 14001 certification of its Environmental Management System for all its U.S. hog production facilities and all pork and beef processing facilities, except for recent acquisitions. In May eight Smithfield Foods subsidiaries were awarded the Virginia Environmental Excellence Program's Exemplary Environmental Enterprise designation. The program, sponsored by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), recognizes Virginia companies that demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship by developing and implementing a comprehensive environmental management system.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Dennis H. Treacy, vice president, Environmental, Community and Government Affairs-757/365-3010

SRDS Des Plaines, Ill.

InfoExpo Focus: Media decision-makers rely on SRDS Media Solutions online and in print for current, comprehensive planning data. Key planners and buyers use the reliable, up-to-date advertising information in SRDS Consumer Magazine Advertising Source[TM] and Business Publication Advertising Source[R] to connect with agricultural publishers.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Christina [e-mail]; Jean [e-mail]; and Elisabeth [e-mail]

STOLLER USA Houston

InfoExpo Focus: Stoller's Crop Health Therapy is an emerging field that is neither fertilizer nor pesticide. It fits more with seed and biotechnology in terms of extracting and realizing the genetic potential of plants. Crop Health Therapy facilitates management of crops based on the most limiting production factor: Mother Nature. Stoller's Crop Health Therapy products increase crop quality and yield by balancing plant hormones throughout the growth cycle, so the plant can better withstand stress caused by unfavorable weather and pests. The products are the next generation in crop production technology, building on the progress made through plant breeding, nutrient management and pesticide advances to help growers realize the crop's full genetic potential.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Neil Stapensea, director of sales & marketing--713/461-1493 ext. 17 or [e-mail]

SYNGENTA SEEDS Golden Valley, Minn.

InfoExpo Focus: Syngenta's high-performing Agrisure[TM] Corn Traits offer corn growers exceptional insect control and herbicide tolerance. The traits will be available in elite genetics sold through Garst, Golden Harvest, NK Brand and more than 50 independent seed companies who are customers of Greenleaf Genetics. Syngenta's AgriEdge[TM] program also supports growers with products and technical expertise for both seed and crop protection. In addition, the combination of Garst, Golden Harvest and NK provides enhanced coverage throughout the Corn Belt as well as significant capabilities for integrated offerings of great value for the grower in both the crop protection and seed treatment categories.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Bev Larson, manager of advertising and public relations, NK Brand; and Thomas Gahm, director of communications, Syngenta Seeds

U.S. PREMIUM BEEF LLC Kansas City, Mo.

InfoExpo Focus: U.S. Premium Beef is a producer-owned beef marketing company that owns National Beef Packing Company LLC, the nation's fourth-largest beef processor. USPB members supply high-quality beef for National Beef's branded products. U.S. Premium Beef is the nation's only large-scale program to offer producers an opportunity to retain ownership of their cattle through value-added processing.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Bill Miller, director of communications-816/877-2525 or [e-mail]

UNITED SOYBEAN BOARD St. Louis

InfoExpo Focus: The soybean checkoff is working hard to build demand for U.S. soybeans and stay competitive in a growing global market. Visit our booth to hear about the latest updates on soybean checkoff initiatives, Select Yield and Quality, Animal Agriculture and Biodiesel.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Jason Bean, USB director and Missouri soybean farmer; and Janice Dahl, USB executive director-636/530-1777 or [e-mail]

USDA ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE Riverdale, Md.

InfoExpo Focus: Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) unveiled two documents describing the National Animal Identification System (NAIS). The voluntary system, being administered by USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) in cooperation with states and industry, is one of USDA's top priorities. It has generated a great deal of public interest. Visitors to the USDA-APHIS booth can talk to an APHIS spokesperson and get the latest news about the NAIS. Visitors can also get contact information for other APHIS issues, such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) surveillance and soybean rust surveillance. APHIS is responsible for protecting and promoting U.S. agricultural health, administering the Animal Welfare Act and carrying out wildlife damage management activities.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Amy Spillman, public affairs specialist-301/734-7253 or [e-mail]

USDA NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS SERVICE

USDA NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE Washington, D.C.

InfoExpo Focus: Information will be provided on the Conservation Security Program and other voluntary conservation programs, projects and activities. Also available will be information on NRCS public affairs contacts at the national level and in each state.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Renae Anderson, public affairs director for NRCS-Wisconsin-608/662-4422 ext. 227 or [e-mail]

USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT Washington, D.C.

InfoExpo Focus: USDA Rural Development is committed to increasing economic opportunities to improving the quality of life for residents of rural communities across the country through financial and technical assistance for housing, community infrastructure, utilities and business.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Allan Johnson-202/720-1019 or [e-mail]; Tim McNeilly-202/690-0498 or [e-mail]; and Jeff Whetstine-314/746-1980 or [e-mail]

VALENT U.S.A. CORPORATION Walnut Creek, Calif.

InfoExpo Focus: Domark fungicide for Asian soybean rust.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Lori Theine, communications manager-847/966-4719 or [e-mail]; Mike Butler, management supervisor-901/523-2000 or [e-mail]; and Lauren Daniel, public relations account coordinator-901/523-2000 or [e-mail]

VALMONT/VALLEY IRRIGATION Valley, Neb.

InfoExpo Focus: Valley offers technology to save labor, water and fuel while producing the best crops possible.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Kim Lang, communications [e-mail]

VERMEER MANUFACTURING Pella, Iowa

InfoExpo Focus: 605 and 604 "M" Round Baler--6'x5' and 6'x4' round balers are dramatically different yet surprisingly simple, from the new simple baler pickup assembly to the quality, density and appearance of the bale when it rolls off the ramp; Rebel TM700 and TM800 Trailed Mowers, 9' and 10.5' cutting widths--Trailed mowers are as "easy as the drop of a pin." Remove the hassle of three-point mower hookup with a Vermeer trailed mower; Quick-Clip Blade Retention System--Quick, easy and safe ... replace or reverse a full set of disc mower blades in just a matter of minutes; BP5000 Rebel Bale Processor-Stretch your hay and feed with ease using a new economical bale processor; BP8000 Bale Processor--Now with right-hand discharge makes for easier feeding and bedding; R2300 Twin Rake- Great box-style windrows just became easier with this 23'bar rake. The R2300 now comes standard with hydraulic fold and unfolding.

Spokespersons/contact into.: Dan Belzer, agricultural marketing manager--641/621-7691 or [e-mail]; and Estee Walter, public relations manager-641/621-7626 or [e-mail]

VILLAGE PRESS

W.K. KELLOGG FOUNDATION Battle Creek, Mich.

InfoExpo Focus: Editors visiting the W.K. Kellogg Foundation booth will learn about the foundation's new $28 million rural development initiative to help invigorate rural communities; $12 million program awarding grants to six rural areas to foster local entrepreneurship and create a model for rural communities across the United States; and recent publications on rural issues to include "Media Coverage of Rural America: 2004 vs. 2002," "The Message from Rural America: The Rural Vote in 2004" and "Federal Investment in Rural America Falls Behind."

Spokesperson/contact info.: Rick Foster, vice president for programs, food systems and rural development-269/969-2159 or [e-mail]

WISCONSIN MILK MARKETING BOARD Madison, Wis.

InfoExpo Focus: The Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board is proud to showcase America's Dairyland during the 2005 Agricultural Media Summit. On Sunday before the Summit you will have a chance to experience the Wisconsin dairy industry firsthand with visits to a local processing facility and a variety of dairy operations, including a large farmstead cheese operation. On Monday night you will get to taste what Wisconsin dairy producers are so proud to make--Wisconsin cheese--in a one-of-a-kind cheese tasting event. And throughout the show be sure to stop by the WMMB booth to talk to industry representatives and find out how Wisconsin's dairy industry contributes more than $20.6 billion to the state's economy.

Spokespersons/contact info.: Matt Joyce, vice president of producer communications and programs; and Gina Bauer, producer communications and programs

WORLD AG EXPO Tulare, Calif.

InfoExpo Focus: Representatives of the World Ag Expo will be on hand to discuss new innovations at the 39th version of the world's largest ag trade show. The export interest directory and Top 10 New Products Digest will be available as well as the 2005 VI P Preview and 2005 Magazine. Lucky registrants will win California wine, World Ag Expo caps and polo shirts, and a chance to attend the 2006 World Ag Expo.

Spokesperson/contact info.: Gary Schulz, general manager-800/999-9186 or [e-mail]