NAMA leader believes in magic.

Barry Nelson, manager, public relations for John Deere, has been involved with magic for over 40 years and thoroughly enjoys the art. He has performed close-up magic for dinner parties and small groups. In addition, he has a magic book collection and a special room at home for all his tricks and apparatus.

Nelson sees the magic in NAMA as well. "I value NAMA for the opportunity to build and enhance relationships in ag business, marketing and advertising," says Nelson.

Nelson, a NAMA member for 7 years, has served the organization as vice chair of the 2006 Agri-Marketing Conference held in Kansas City and currently serves as chair of the 2007 Agri-Marketing Conference in Dallas. As chair of the Conference Committee, Nelson is involved in all aspects on conference planning including the theme, schedule and speaker selection.

Having been with John Deere for 26 years, he currently leads the public relations and media efforts for the John Deere Agricultural Division. Prior to this position he as a territory manager for John Deere, Iowa. He cites adapting to change and continuously working to promote new products and services as the biggest challenge in his position.

As far as what faces the industry, Nelson cites another significant challenge. "All agri-marketers are constantly challenged to do more with less people, resources and dollars," he says.

Nelson graduated from Augustana College with a major in English literature and education. He is married to wife Rhonda and has two children, Megan, age 26 and Matt, age 24. His hobbies include biking, reading, travel, and of course, magic.

LOOK WHO RECRUITED A NEW MEMBER:

Becky Anway who recruited Jamie Mossbarger.

Sarah Hoban who recruited Melanie Fuller.

Crystal Jorgenson who recruited Brian Oleson.

Tom Sleight who recruited Kelly Machett.

Clark Springfield who recruited Terrell Miller.

Howard Trilling who recruited George Collinger.