tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52307562244953704592024-03-05T14:20:00.121-08:00Tyne's TakeBlogging my senior year with an Ag Journalist's spin on things...Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-72612789908841606022008-03-13T11:48:00.000-07:002008-03-13T11:49:43.853-07:00New technology that might amaze you...In our Ag J Capstone course at Mizzou, we're taking a new twist on things. We are all learning about new media tools, such as Soundslides. <br /><br /><a href="http://web.missouri.edu/~tamp54/publish_to_web/">For one of my assignments,</a> I chose to profile Dave Sasse, a Roundup Ready 2 Yield Ambassador. <br /><br />Since it's my first one, it's a little rough around the edges. But I can't wait to experiment even more with the program and see what other fun things I can create.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-18036955396468975992008-03-13T10:46:00.000-07:002008-03-13T10:57:47.928-07:00Getting fresh faces on the farm<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNqASAFlldXITXQgSsJSu-xzD0CxNw8GJyMbUQO4YD8XAZgeelURLoD7ZQ_W-EPz5VUX9-il7LOyhzknuJBbIUNms4d8Mew5aqD_UL7x50CSl6RRpzkjJHUEoYN0aiPesvCKmBtYQ-ZeA/s1600-h/farming.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNqASAFlldXITXQgSsJSu-xzD0CxNw8GJyMbUQO4YD8XAZgeelURLoD7ZQ_W-EPz5VUX9-il7LOyhzknuJBbIUNms4d8Mew5aqD_UL7x50CSl6RRpzkjJHUEoYN0aiPesvCKmBtYQ-ZeA/s320/farming.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5177286868104537698" /></a><br />It's a fact in the ag industry that noone can deny - there's a major generation gap in farmers today. The average age of a farmer in Missouri is 60... that's right, 60. So, most of these farmers will be looking to retire or get out of farming sooner rather than later. And this means a big lag in the number of farmers we have.<br /><br />So, legislation is addressing the issue. It's called the Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Act. Basically, it would encourage anyone getting out of farming, to sell their assets to someone wanting to buy it for agricultural purposes (specifically land). <a href="http://www.komu.com/satellite/SatelliteRender/KOMU.com/ba8a4513-c0a8-2f11-0063-9bd94c70b769/81209612-80ce-0971-006d-dd6ed75fb311">I talked to both a young farmer </a>that's fresh out of college and the Missouri Farm Bureau to get their take on the issue.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-60960547409990617292008-03-13T10:34:00.000-07:002008-03-13T10:46:30.858-07:00The debate that seems to never end: Animal IDAnimal ID is being debated in the Missouri state legislature. And it's not the first time. One of the biggest aspects of Animal ID people bring up is whether to make it voluntary and mandatory.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.komu.com/satellite/SatelliteRender/KOMU.com/ba8a4513-c0a8-2f11-0063-9bd94c70b769/9a6b3202-80ce-0971-0035-8fd789377a8e">I talked to a producer </a>from Osage County about the issue and he backs a voluntary system. I see the up's and down's to both sides. But watch the story and see what you think...Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-43592309666460700162008-03-13T10:26:00.000-07:002008-03-13T10:34:12.480-07:00Putting a face to the food you buy...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJoCFzeZrZba_ONjPF7RZVKUuMDkJeze7h_hABrBa5K6TpyDwZMna8Eyiw6p4y5mqXmuIQlCS3wCULbS6-jBHVSPp5W-ADF6K6GcaF_vNeMuAnmz2Gd8AaZU3pRsVf5OyL_giDeHI4Ut0/s1600-h/farmers+markets.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJoCFzeZrZba_ONjPF7RZVKUuMDkJeze7h_hABrBa5K6TpyDwZMna8Eyiw6p4y5mqXmuIQlCS3wCULbS6-jBHVSPp5W-ADF6K6GcaF_vNeMuAnmz2Gd8AaZU3pRsVf5OyL_giDeHI4Ut0/s320/farmers+markets.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5177280777840911954" /></a><br />Who says farmers' markets are a thing of the past? You could actually refer to Farmers' Markets as the hip trend right now for consumers wanting to buy fresh food. <br /><br />In Missouri, the number of markets is on the rise. <a href="http://www.komu.com/satellite/SatelliteRender/KOMU.com/ba8a4513-c0a8-2f11-0063-9bd94c70b769/76d368d1-80ce-0971-009c-8242e513d3d2">I did a story on KOMU </a>about this trend and why it's becoming such a popular choice for consumers.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-79808443457633674682008-02-19T11:47:00.000-08:002008-02-19T11:48:23.224-08:00It's a jungle out there...<a href="http://web.missouri.edu/~tamp54/Final%20Tigers%20for%20Tigers%20Podcast.mp3">Hear what action Mizzou's taking </a>to help tigers in the wild.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-1234215664809891952008-02-05T09:31:00.000-08:002008-02-05T09:45:07.391-08:00Roundup Ready 2 Yield one step closer to growers' fields<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBn0HSR25kaUAJTgSvnQbKv1K8-aLjv186EX2Pdbu7YO416XnLRm6XaU85Vp4shvu0H1yc3staUzAyRutlXdtHGOfqoyzTFyd9RLatIDermfsx9ZYyPlW8wzkpZ-q5ZypDEJqNgYi9G8/s1600-h/rr2y_tm_logo.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBn0HSR25kaUAJTgSvnQbKv1K8-aLjv186EX2Pdbu7YO416XnLRm6XaU85Vp4shvu0H1yc3staUzAyRutlXdtHGOfqoyzTFyd9RLatIDermfsx9ZYyPlW8wzkpZ-q5ZypDEJqNgYi9G8/s320/rr2y_tm_logo.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163553192301312434" /></a><br />Soybean growers have been speaking out and wanting better soybean technology in their fields. Well, Monsanto thinks it has the answer with its second-generation soybean technology, <a href="http://www.monsanto.com/rr2y/default.asp?WT.svl=2">Roundup Ready 2 Yield.</a> <br /><br />Today, Monsanto announced it received import regulatory approval from Japan, the Philippines and Taiwan. This is great news for the company and farmers because this means the new soybean technology is one step closer to growers fields. That also means growers are one step closer to having improved soybean yields (Monsanto says Roundup Ready 2 Yield has the yield potential for a 7-11% per bushel yield increase). Here's what Monsanto had to say:<br /><br /><em>Monsanto's Roundup Ready 2 Yield Soybeans Receive Key Approvals In Asian Countries<br />ST. LOUIS, Feb. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Monsanto Company (NYSE: MON) announced today that it has received final regulatory approval in Japan, the Philippines and Taiwan for its second-generation soybean technology, Roundup Ready 2 Yield™ (MON 89788). These approvals represent significant progress toward the commercialization of this new higher-yielding soybean technology.<br /><br />"Roundup Ready 2 Yield soybeans are poised to deliver a new yield advantage to U.S. farmers and pave the way for the development of stacked-trait offerings in this oilseed crop," said Robert T. Fraley, Ph.D., chief technology officer and executive vice president of Monsanto Company. "Importantly, this new soybean product is expected to offer farmers a novel way to get more yield out of a single acre of land, a critical step as farmers work to meet the growing food and fuel demands of our world."</em><br /><br />It looks like it's a whole new ballgame for soybean growers thanks to Monsanto!Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-13980933716958217112008-02-05T09:24:00.000-08:002008-02-05T09:31:28.962-08:00Bloggin' about Podcastin'Another portion of our Ag J capstone course will be dedicated to learning how to podcast. As a person who started broadcasting at age 16 and currently going through the broadcast sequence at MU, I am looking forward to this portion of the course. 1) I can help teach others and 2) I can learn even more about what goes into making a successful podcast.<br /><br />One of my favorite podcasts is <a href="http://www.thislife.org/">"This American Life."</a> I like it becasue of the approach they take. It's very conversational and as a listner, I like to hear people talking to me, not at me.<br /><br />As a broadcaster, I strive to do pieces that are more like this so I can connect more with our listeners. At Brownfield, my boss Cyndi always tried to get me to be more conversational. And believe, I try very hard to accomplish this. But I know still have a lot of work to do.<br /><br />As a podcast, I think this does a great job of providing information in an entertaining way, as well. <br /><br />So, I hope you enjoy this as much as I do.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-21813097395645549312008-02-04T18:59:00.000-08:002008-02-05T12:01:39.862-08:00MO Soybean Assoc. wants more biodiesel on the road<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhab9EX6NCXQP371HJuPvVEOfMjfWXE2-SZ0RYWHlceiht82iaw90giNtbEDsKp3WANctCSIsbHo7JRFD-SJ0HbaCqlN5ARIM3TUMiWpPjDKAAH8IDiZXgGopPMrVMgulTf_eLiVPdmBrU/s1600-h/bio.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhab9EX6NCXQP371HJuPvVEOfMjfWXE2-SZ0RYWHlceiht82iaw90giNtbEDsKp3WANctCSIsbHo7JRFD-SJ0HbaCqlN5ARIM3TUMiWpPjDKAAH8IDiZXgGopPMrVMgulTf_eLiVPdmBrU/s320/bio.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163562177372895682" /></a><br />My second reporting shift of the semester was on a new Biodiesel standard the Missouri Soybean Association (MSA) is pushing this legislative session. The standard would require all diesel fuel sold in the state of Missouri to contact five percent biodiesel (B5). In the legislation, the standard would only be in effect if biodiesel costs less that standard diesel. <br /><br />I found out all Breaktime locations that have biodiesel are currently selling B5. But if passed, the standard would increase availability. <a href="http://www.komu.com/satellite/SatelliteRender/KOMU.com/ba8a4513-c0a8-2f11-0063-9bd94c70b769/e6dd948b-80ce-0971-0068-07997bb9c2f4">Take a look at what MSA and one local grower have to say about the proposed standard.</a><br /><br />Some of you may have heard the "Food versus Fuel" debate triggered by increased ethanol production. Well the soybean industry says that's not even an issue with biodiesel production. When a soybean is crushed to produce biodiesel, the soybean oil is used to make biodiesel and then the soybean meal that's left will be used to make livestock feed (mainly for poultry and pork). So, they say with increased biodiesel production, more feed for animals will be created. And since there's enough production to meet the new standard, the Soybean Association says it won't increase the cost of food, either.<br /><br />I also need to give a "shout out" to my Broadcast 1 professor, Gary Grigsby. He went out and shot with me. So, my video is awesome thanks to Gary. He also provided great entertainment throughout the day. So, THANKS GARY!Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-78034789645699774352008-01-28T19:34:00.001-08:002008-01-28T19:47:23.849-08:00Not all green for Missouri farmers...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGKEEB1R4VHfMGqYBjJoC-A-kjcMFe8UbTa75gseE9KJxK1k-LvjF7u6z-KvSCvIISJ8dsQPFuwYqtN7L2NHsZFfTbCeMfKrsM-SVTJgCpPtVf2u3NHPsZZCXmszY-6oNENCwBFcE1yPw/s1600-h/fertilizer.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGKEEB1R4VHfMGqYBjJoC-A-kjcMFe8UbTa75gseE9KJxK1k-LvjF7u6z-KvSCvIISJ8dsQPFuwYqtN7L2NHsZFfTbCeMfKrsM-SVTJgCpPtVf2u3NHPsZZCXmszY-6oNENCwBFcE1yPw/s200/fertilizer.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5160740074621778338" /></a><br />While talking to farmers over break, I realized one of the biggest issues they are facing is rising input costs. While many Americans who are generations removed from the farm think growers have it made right now with rising grain prices, that's not the case. Higher input costs, especially fertilizer, is putting the pinch on growers.<br /><br />So, I decided to do a story for <a href="http://www.komu.com/ssi/ba8c4979-c0a8-2f11-01ab-a6aaf4c5cdb8.page">KOMU </a>, a TV news station in Columbia, Mo., on the higher costs and the affect it's having on farmers. As an Ag J student in the broadcast sequence, I will report every Monday night for KOMU. This was my first piece, but overall I learned a lot and I hope Mid-Missourians did, as well. <a href="http://www.komu.com/satellite/SatelliteRender/KOMU.com/ba8a4513-c0a8-2f11-0063-9bd94c70b769/c264c435-80ce-0971-00b0-8a5cc0ed226a">Take a look and see how my story turned out. </a>. (If you click on the player on the right-hand side of the page, you can see how it aired during the 6 o'clock news.) <br /><br />Dr. Ron Plain, a very well-known and respected University of Missouri Ag Economist, gave me statistics that made this story really hit home. Costs have increased dramatically from last spring and it looks like there's no end in sight. <br /><br /><strong>Fertilizer prices:</strong><br /><br /><em>Anhydrous ammonia</em><br /><br />Spring 2007: $523/ton<br />Current: $725/ton<br /><br /> <em>Diammonium phosphate</em><br /><br />Spring 2007: $0.221/lb<br />Current: $0.550/lb<br /><br /><em>Potash</em><br /><br />Spring 2007: $0.233/lb<br />Current $0.425/lb<br /><br />I hope you enjoyed the story and invite you to stay tuned every week to see what type of ag-related stories I decide to pursue for KOMU.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-57259277618791817512008-01-28T19:20:00.000-08:002008-01-28T19:33:51.024-08:00From one blogger to another...As part of my Ag J capstone course, we are supposed to analyze someone's blog. And since I am interested in broadcast, I am going in that direction with my analysis. I really look to <a href="http://www.buckeyeag.com/">Ohio Buckeye Ag Radio Network </a>to see how farm broadcasters are using new, innovative technology to help propel their business. So, I'm going to talk about Lindsay's blog: <a href="http://www.buckeyeag.com/blogs/index.php?blog=5">Lindsay's Lesson</a>. <br /><br />First, the general idea of the website around the barn theme is unique and catchy. To meet the broadcasters, it says "Meet the hired hands." Such cute phrases adds a great deal to the website. I also like the way Lindsay writes - it's in a very casual, reader-friendly style. This makes it nice. <br /><br />Lindsay's blog posts are short, which is helpful. Many people (including myself) don't always have time to read an entire page of information. By having short entries, it makes it easier to read more of the blog postings.<br /><br />Her blog talks about more than just agriculture. You would expect that a farm broadcaster would mostly write about ag, but that's not the case. I like this because while I'm getting ag information, I can also find out fun facts on other topics. <br /><br />Overall, I like reading Lindsay and <a href="http://www.buckeyeag.com/blogs/index.php?blog=7">Andy's blogs</a>. They keep me interested while helping me learn new things at the same time.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-10955255677140427852008-01-24T13:08:00.000-08:002008-01-24T13:11:10.256-08:00It's a new year and that means a new blogging twist...I'm back! It's been a while, but I am once again blogging. I will continue to blog for you on a weekly basis as part as my Ag Journalism Capstone class. It may take a while to get back into the swing of things, but I'm excited to be able to have the opportunity to blog once again.<br /><br />Blogging is fun because it's what you make it. So, please stay tuned as my semester progresses.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-52137314593796787352007-03-02T11:27:00.000-08:002007-03-02T11:52:54.380-08:00Trade remains a key issue for producers here at the ClassicU.S. Trade Representative Susan Schwab was on hand today for producers. After she spoke upstairs in the Convention Center, she came down for a <a href="http://www.cafnrcornerpost.com/commodityclassic/schwab.MP3">short press conference</a>, and I mean short. I recorded it for your listening pleasure.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEherOr0NcDzC6vt7sZddv1sY9Uf4prZZ2ltCxpv8jp6ESPQ6eonwgarRZy9LJTLXLyI0txlNsqU0MZCwMn7fGNQo3e0LfSJoWTUE9KIDv0wxBIW3OeN2h73F_micdqAMoOOH6e1OjPnLDA/s1600-h/schwab.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEherOr0NcDzC6vt7sZddv1sY9Uf4prZZ2ltCxpv8jp6ESPQ6eonwgarRZy9LJTLXLyI0txlNsqU0MZCwMn7fGNQo3e0LfSJoWTUE9KIDv0wxBIW3OeN2h73F_micdqAMoOOH6e1OjPnLDA/s200/schwab.jpg" border="1" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5037411598044044978" /></a>Now, I thought I would go and get a great deal of information out of the press conference, but they only let her speak for a short time. ALthough she was limited to what she could say, she did have some interesting points. She is a great speaker who really captivates the audience. Trade is a major issue right now with deals needing to be made and a lot not getting done, especially with the upcoming Farm Bill. 2007 could be another tough year as far as trade goes, but we’ll see, I know everyone here is stressed out with the Farm Bill, wanting to be heard in the writing process. But, Susan answered what she had time for reminding us all, trade deals need to be made.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-8613061565367589682007-03-02T11:09:00.000-08:002007-03-02T12:14:16.695-08:00YieldGard VT new to the fieldRight after the Soy2020 press conference, <a href="http://www.agriculture.com/ag/story.jhtml?storyid=/templatedata/ag/story/data/1157059691262.xml&catref=ag1001">Monsanto</a> jumped right in to introduce YieldGard VT. Dion McBay, U.S. Marketing Manager for Asgrow and DEKALB soybeans <a href="http://www.cafnrcornerpost.com/commodityclassic/McBayInterview.mp3 ">spoke to me about the new seed technology yesterday</a>. I can tell he truly cares about the product and had a lot of good information for me, providing me with an overview of what benefit YieldGard VT will provide for farmers. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKt4HkpN3nCTLDGKJKU3RRxfbGAoZOe60Ax4NId4oi2sZgEweajszjanHTh8298kRar6l4VtbNL70VLocWse6VtNfGNQ5-WjNefdCdidL0H3BIAL_-_pcVGtXjNlnXRjfxHs8nj4qd_Z8/s1600-h/dion.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKt4HkpN3nCTLDGKJKU3RRxfbGAoZOe60Ax4NId4oi2sZgEweajszjanHTh8298kRar6l4VtbNL70VLocWse6VtNfGNQ5-WjNefdCdidL0H3BIAL_-_pcVGtXjNlnXRjfxHs8nj4qd_Z8/s200/dion.jpg" border="1" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5037422859448295106" /></a>Tami Craig Schilling mediated the press conference this morning. By the way, Alyssa and I love Tami. She is fun, entertaining and great to work for because she cares about not only how we are doing, but what we are getting out of the internship. So, now I will get off my little soap box and move on with the <a href="http://www.cafnrcornerpost.com/commodityclassic/YieldgardVT.MP3">Press Conference</a>. Ernesto Fajardo, vice president of Monsanto’s U.S. crop production business kicked things off and Dion followed with great insight to what the product will do for U.S. farmers. He talked about what kind of insect control the crop provides and the genetics that went into improving the YieldGard product.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-83910709462323237432007-03-02T11:07:00.000-08:002007-03-02T11:55:33.892-08:00Getting the most out of soy products for producersProducers always want to get the most out of their product. And soybean checkoff dollars from across the country are going towards <a href="http://www.soy2020vision.com/contactus.htm">Soy2020</a>, an industry-wide effort that strives for continued competitiveness in the global market. It also gives producers insight to the future and knowing what opportunities and challenges to expect.<br /><br />This morning they had a press conference and after it was over I caught up with the past and current chairman of the United Soybean Board. <a href="http://www.cafnrcornerpost.com/commodityclassic/soy2020.MP3 ">This is what they had to say</a>.<br /><br />I think they both bring up good points and staying competitive is extremely important for producers. And as they said, the demand is continuing to be strong and the pressure remains for the soybean industry to produce enough food, fuel and fiber for the world.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-86052172897584342652007-03-02T10:37:00.000-08:002007-03-02T11:49:42.265-08:00DEKALB and Asgrow growers treated like stars<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjINQdw8RCkglDnxo6Yz5KsxolY4W5wpwAO_JuT6BINFpp29eK_im0Vtr1OrJ20jgj0o05lEdgUgTu5PIR7yG8ybVX32CpmIZUU1GwqQ5znzuxSJOlZ5LeByiEy1DO3qGViuNK_lYMWIWo/s1600-h/front.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5037399095394246242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjINQdw8RCkglDnxo6Yz5KsxolY4W5wpwAO_JuT6BINFpp29eK_im0Vtr1OrJ20jgj0o05lEdgUgTu5PIR7yG8ybVX32CpmIZUU1GwqQ5znzuxSJOlZ5LeByiEy1DO3qGViuNK_lYMWIWo/s200/front.JPG" border="1" /></a><br />So, do you remember that yacht I posted a picture of earlier this week? The one with the hot tub in the back? Well, I went on a yacht last night that was bigger, much bigger. And even though this yacht didn’t have a hot tub, the producers made it worthwhile. Alyssa and I grabbed a quick picture before we got on!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlAMhdjvl0Vvw5AZ0_yJtGBqBWFHeGc-178jbnKYi37KWeudznTIn_mBot1chMsjJqOn-vBHFD81Xo8fIgcmqNhSELkyO_RjBLRQ95Oq0DCShs0W-BVolPWC9Z4tFIORcMTO4xm5usnc/s1600-h/pinning.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlAMhdjvl0Vvw5AZ0_yJtGBqBWFHeGc-178jbnKYi37KWeudznTIn_mBot1chMsjJqOn-vBHFD81Xo8fIgcmqNhSELkyO_RjBLRQ95Oq0DCShs0W-BVolPWC9Z4tFIORcMTO4xm5usnc/s200/pinning.JPG" border="1" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5037400126186397346" /></a>Last night, growers who won the National Corn Growers Yield Contest with Asgrow or DEKALB seed, got the privilege of taking a boat ride. They were wined and dined and treated like stars. First, all the women were given corsages. The picture is of me actually pinning people. This woman was brave because I warned them that I would more than likely draw blood, but I got better as I went along. I admit I was slow, but the consequences were much better if I took my time. Then, when they got on the boat they got food, drinks, awards, and a great atmosphere with a live band. To top everything off and wrap up the night, we enjoyed a firework show.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGKv5sAnQ26ukxQBnQ8lb-9Fve6Oq8v7YZ9_9-sfLFYA5v9yJ4ehPt4aNtuBBzPMKXIQswtf5aTyqQVLGpdJM13pj3olZ6uamQC6n93T473oCYFx64oY30njdRvfO_Ji5FQ69SlzamZ4/s1600-h/interview.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5037399804063850130" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGKv5sAnQ26ukxQBnQ8lb-9Fve6Oq8v7YZ9_9-sfLFYA5v9yJ4ehPt4aNtuBBzPMKXIQswtf5aTyqQVLGpdJM13pj3olZ6uamQC6n93T473oCYFx64oY30njdRvfO_Ji5FQ69SlzamZ4/s200/interview.JPG" border="1" /></a>While I was having a good time, I actually did some work and <a href="http://www.cafnrcornerpost.com/commodityclassic/nebraskaproducer.MP3">interviewed a Nebraska state winner</a>. Bruce Wiles, a grower from Plattsmouth, Nebraska talked about the contest, as well as his time here in Florida. And the one thing that he is enjoying the most, is the people. I agree with him. I mean, producers put all the stress of the farm behind them and come to Classic to have a great time. Last night definitely proved that!<br /><br />Alyssa and I took time for a great photo on the boat. It was great weather and as I said before, the growers made the night enjoyable and memorable.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-73027524838749192102007-03-01T20:13:00.000-08:002007-03-01T20:26:39.911-08:00VISTIVE soybeans kicks things off...I had no idea how big of a role Monsanto plays in events like the Commodity Classic. After spending a day with the Monsanto crew and seed growers, I can say I am proud to be associated with this group.<br /><br />I am learning more and more about the vast number of products Monsanto has out there. It’ll take a long time to understand all of them fully and every company and seed variety that is through Monsanto, but I am taking it step-by-step and learning about the products along the way.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmf1qmkQo01Yh6EtcIxvXOnHeWvujVT7pc3iO8Mg5hr9QPCkg4IhRLXiIHiRaUVnBb6FRnomC9wL_rXVomgyf4uUJmMqkOk1xdbV-iTDaeZgb4wIbzNI7jddUs7Kzci0JcL6gfyhRNaRc/s1600-h/VISTIVE.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmf1qmkQo01Yh6EtcIxvXOnHeWvujVT7pc3iO8Mg5hr9QPCkg4IhRLXiIHiRaUVnBb6FRnomC9wL_rXVomgyf4uUJmMqkOk1xdbV-iTDaeZgb4wIbzNI7jddUs7Kzci0JcL6gfyhRNaRc/s200/VISTIVE.jpg" border="5" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5037177157254192690" /></a><br />Well, today the Trade Show opened and Monsanto was right there in the lead and even cut to help with the ribbon cutting ceremony. VISTIVE soybeans were the main attraction and Monsanto used great marketing techniques to grab people’s attention. They used the KFC logo to talk about the soybeans and what kind of opportunities there is for the product. In fact, KFC has switched 5,500 of their restaurants to low-linolenic soybean oil and the majority of that oil being VISTIVE. So, what a great partnership to have and the opportunities remain endless in this area.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvby6NwCdo5GZkhmsv8qjfVB-tAxXC50VRJsNq4IJf1LMYjlnNUdArlAlLF6TRQl6bxQR7xxpGnGiKQt-elrfy_fdYF6dpgkk1JFfyLpmSA0TXxLam9MuWj1cuCRH1ejWYJasGoZ9mqg/s1600-h/KFC+1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvby6NwCdo5GZkhmsv8qjfVB-tAxXC50VRJsNq4IJf1LMYjlnNUdArlAlLF6TRQl6bxQR7xxpGnGiKQt-elrfy_fdYF6dpgkk1JFfyLpmSA0TXxLam9MuWj1cuCRH1ejWYJasGoZ9mqg/s200/KFC+1.jpg" border="5" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5037177681240202834" /></a><br /><br /><br />Kurt Wickstrom, U.S. Soybean Traits Manager for Monsanto, was the front man today and actually spoke about VISTIVE during the opening ceremony. I <a href="http://www.cafnrcornerpost.com/commodityclassic/VistiveInterview.mp3 ">spoke with him </a>about the opportunties available and what we should expect in the near future. During the opening ceremony, he was standing next to the Presidents of NCGA, ASA and NAWG who are all hosting the Classic. The crew handed out colorful buttons for people to wear on their shirts that not only grabbed people’s attention, but was a tool used to draw them into the booth. In order to get a treasure map, they had to be wearing the buttons. Then, they had to follow certain clues to fill out questions on the map. Once it was all filled out, they were able to enter it in for a drawing and have the chance to win two free plane tickets anywhere they choose. That’s something I want to win.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-o9sl1gYMlMfXjRxFpbFdaS3NRJf0ZhSdxc6vGRxb8MZzcawWEP5pZo1ho5L4a2K7zIVclxfkQUQkkZtFWMGq5_z2Q42IDIQp6aheZWsxNY3zO_hYp18zyEFVo1_ny2nJSGFf0GvVKE0/s1600-h/Opening.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-o9sl1gYMlMfXjRxFpbFdaS3NRJf0ZhSdxc6vGRxb8MZzcawWEP5pZo1ho5L4a2K7zIVclxfkQUQkkZtFWMGq5_z2Q42IDIQp6aheZWsxNY3zO_hYp18zyEFVo1_ny2nJSGFf0GvVKE0/s200/Opening.jpg" border="5" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5037177414952230466" /></a><br /><br />So, Monsanto continues to amaze me with the marketing and planning they do. Every detail is ironed out and perfected so things are able to run smooth. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings at the Trade Show!Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-71418931110644328302007-03-01T11:45:00.000-08:002007-03-01T11:52:12.395-08:00The future for corn is looking bright!The <a href="http://www.ncga.com/">National Corn Growers Association </a>is excited to be at the Classic this year. I mean what corn producer wouldn’t? $4 corn makes all growers happy and so I have a feeling they’ll be celebrating their current position in the U.S. market and the opportunities ahead.<br /><br />Although things look good, policy must be set and trying to get the upcoming Farm Bill written to fit the best interest of corn growers is still extremely important. So, I caught up with NCGA President, Ken McCauley, a corn grower from Kansas. During <a href="http://www.cafnrcornerpost.com/commodityclassic/McCauleyInterview.MP3">our interview </a>we discussed not only policy, but also challenges ahead. Most of us have heard about the Food versus Fuel Debate that many people are bringing up, saying farmers can’t produce enough corn to both feed and fuel the country. But McCauley told me he doesn’t look at it that way and they are approaching it as Food AND Fuel. This is a concept Monsanto is also trying to address. And as McCauley talks about in the interview, the kind of attention corn is receiving right now with ethanol is creating a interest for agriculture with the general public. And he has a good point, because he thinks that interest will then overflow into the livestock industry, as well.<br /><br />I have McCauley before, and he is an extremely nice and friendly guy that doesn’t forget his agricultural roots. He is excited about the future of corn and it’s good to know someone with that mindset is leading the National Corn Growers Association.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-60982199102894731142007-03-01T10:47:00.000-08:002007-03-01T11:11:03.609-08:00It's officially the first day and everything is underway...<p><img alt="Tyne" hspace="5" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/180/406974548_a93d91dcd9_m.jpg" align="right" vspace="5" hspace=”5” border="1" /></p><br />Although many people arrived yesterday and groups have already been getting together discussing issues and setting policy, today is when the Trade Show opens. That is a major part of the Classic, and I will have more on that later. Our morning started at 9 a.m. and <a href="http://alyssamonsantointern.blogspot.com/">Alyssa Bane</a>, the other intern, and I had a short walk over. So, we grabbed a quick picture overlooking some water and this is calm me. I guarantee you will be able to tell when things get really hectic by the photos and my appearance. <br /><br /><p><img alt="Tyne Interviewing" hspace="5" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/164/406974544_e132c712b8_m.jpg" align="left" vspace="5" hspace=”5” border="1" /></p><br />First thing this morning, we met with Willie Vogt, Corporate Editorial Director for <a href="http://www.farmprogress.com/ME2/default.asp">Farm Progress Companies</a>. Farm Futures and Rural Life magazine are just a couple of their publications. As I mentioned earlier, a total of 5,000 people will be here this week. Not only is that company representatives, producers and representatives from the <a href="http://www.ncga.com/">National Corn Growers Association</a>, <a href="http://www.soygrowers.com/">American Soybean Association</a> and for the first year, the <a href="http://www.wheatworld.org/">National Association of Wheat Growers</a>, but media, and specifically agricultural journalists. So, while I had Vogt cornered, I <a href="http://www.cafnrcornerpost.com/commodityclassic/VogtInterview.MP3">interviewed him </a>about how agricultural journalism has changed and where he sees it going. Vogt didn’t come in with an agricultural background, so it was interesting to see what kind of things he had to overcome within the industry.<br /><br />We also talked to Chuck Zimmerman, who linked us from his <a href="http://www.agwired.com/">blog</a>! Thanks, Chuck!Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-67408710798942357072007-02-28T12:44:00.000-08:002007-02-28T19:40:41.328-08:00Tampa Bay on the First DayWell, all the preparation and excitement has all come down to this- the 2007 Commodity Classic in Tampa, Florida. I can’t explain how glad I am to be here, enjoying beautiful weather and a great atmosphere, while leaving all the winter weather behind. In fact, on my way to the airport extremely early this morning (before 5 a.m.), I heard on the radio snow could be headed Missouri’s way tomorrow. I know Iowa is supposed to get some more as well, and after the bad winter storm that hit recently, many <a href="http://www.brownfieldnetwork.com/gestalt/go.cfm?objectid=FBAFA9EB-D5E6-22CA-BDDA852AB90DDC7C">Iowa residents are still trying to recover</a>. Also on my way in, we ran into a hailstorm. So, needless to say, I was glad to finally touch down in Tampa Bay and see gorgeous weather with sunny skies.<br /><p><img alt="Convention Center" hspace="5" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/123/406023037_bcd13fec1a_m.jpg" align="left" vspace="5" border="1" /></p>As soon as I got to Tampa, I decided to head over to the Convention Center, which is where the majority of the events for this year’s Classic will be held. I actually have a perfect view of the Center from my hotel room, which is pictured above.<br />When I got to the media room, I met Bob Callanan, Communications Director for the <a href="http://www.soygrowers.com/">American Soybean Association</a>. He was very helpful with getting me registered, and while he was helping me get squared away, we were talking about his involvement with Commodity Classic and what kind of preparation goes into an event like this. With a total of 5,000 people expected, I can’t even imagine what goes on behind the scenes. So, I did an <a href="http://www.cafnrcornerpost.com/commodityclassic/CallananInterview.MP3">interview with Callanan</a> to not only talk about the preparation involved, but to provide you background information on what the Commodity Classic is all about. He has been with ASA for 13 years and has been helping with Commodity Classic for 11 years.<br /><p><img alt="Boat " hspace="5" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/130/406023035_b349ebf6c2_m.jpg" align="left" vspace="5" border="1" /></p><br />This is a picture of a yacht I could see from my hotel room. I just added this in for your viewing pleasure. And that little circle on the back – yes, that is a hot tub. So, I may go try to find the proud owners of “Just Lucky II” and see what they do for a living, because whatever it is, I think it might be my calling.Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5230756224495370459.post-10197585772729603962007-02-22T10:03:00.000-08:002007-02-22T14:07:09.912-08:00A once in a lifetime experience...Let me start of by telling you a little bit about myself. I am a junior at the University of Missouri-Columbia majoring in <a href="http://www.ssu.missouri.edu/AgJ/index.htm">Agricultural Journalism</a>. What led me to choose this major? Well, actually, a lot of things factored into the decision. Although I didn't grow up directly on a farm, agriculture has always been a strong presence in my life.<br /><br />I have several family members that are farmers and ranchers in Missouri, which allowed me to get involved at a young age. My father is an agricultural education instructor at Santa Fe High School and he suggested I join <a href="http://www.ffa.org/">FFA</a> in high school. Looking back, I can honestly say that was one of the best decisions I ever made and one that truly was life-changing. I started participating in public speaking events, which allowed me to research current events in agriculture. By doing so, I gained a strong passion for Missouri's largest industry and a love for agriculture that is stayed with me throughout my life.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9yHbZUZb91s_zlXrpod-HF4EfqJi-Kwh8rRog8RAjSm93Hkp8lX_njU-bWcQodTQ_znkJdhU0F4pu4G7lQX7HA9EkO7B9xcU0QDdXCOctjonM0BNn2M6FwDJPbYPWPYnXXADx8RRW9U/s1600-h/TyneNorm2-lo.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5034465289886875858" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" hspace="5" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9yHbZUZb91s_zlXrpod-HF4EfqJi-Kwh8rRog8RAjSm93Hkp8lX_njU-bWcQodTQ_znkJdhU0F4pu4G7lQX7HA9EkO7B9xcU0QDdXCOctjonM0BNn2M6FwDJPbYPWPYnXXADx8RRW9U/s200/TyneNorm2-lo.jpg" vspace="5" border="1" /></a> Because of my public speaking experience, I began working in broadcast during high school at the age of 16. I often say opportunities fall into my lap. But the only reason I have these opportunities to begin with is because of the experience I gained through FFA. Now, as a college student, I am a farm broadcast intern for <a href="http://www.agnews.com/">Brownfield</a>, the largest ag radio network in the country. I anchor news, write web stories and interview agricultural leaders. I am surrounded my agriculture everyday at work and couldn't enjoy what I do anymore. I expanded my knowledge of broadcasting to the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources where I produce a weekly <a href="http://www.cafnrcornerpost.com/">podcast</a> (photo, taken by MU AgJ sophomore Kyle Spradley, of an interview with Former Tigers Head Basketball Coach Norm Stewart during the Ag Day BBQ). I started the podcast last semester as a way for student to keep up on news from the college and agriculture. Now, it is a way for younger Agricultural Journalism students to learn first hand about broadcasting, and in particular, farm broadcasting.<br /><br />My goal as an agricultural communicator is to tell agriculture’s story in everything I do. I am currently serving as the 2006 Missouri State Fair Queen, and Missouri’s Ambassador for Agriculture. This really puts the icing on the cake for my communications experience, because I am able to travel across the state communicating agriculture's story. My personal goal when fulfilling my duties as Missouri State Fair Queen is to allow everyone (both rural and urban residents) to truly understand the importance of agriculture in their everyday lives.<br /><br />Well, that is enough about me; let's move on to what you should expect from me next week!<br /><br />I am extremely excited about this post for two reasons: 1) It is my first blog post and I can officially call myself a "blogger" and 2) I know that I am preparing for an experience of a lifetime that will allow me to network and learn more about U.S. agriculture.<br /><br />Before I go any further, I just want to give you my own definition of a blog/blogger is. I think of a blog as a way for “bloggers” to post personal insight about anything they desire, but in a conversational format. Blogs are meant to be informative, as is any type of news or media, but are usually presented in a more fun or enjoyable format. So, a “blogger” is able to use the internet to add personal opinion about the topics they want to make public.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.monsanto.com/monsanto/layout/">Monsanto</a> is giving me the opportunity to get first-hand experience and speak to leaders from across the country through the Future Ag Journalist Fellowship program. Right now, I feel a little overwhelmed getting everything together for the trip (and school doesn't ease that pressure any) to the <a href="http://www.commodityclassic.com/">2007 Commodity Classic</a>. But I look at it this way: I am going to get out of my trip what I put in. So, I am putting in a great deal of thought into planning for the Classic because I definitely don't want to miss anything.<br /><br />Monsanto has been extremely helpful by sending me agendas, plans, etc. While looking everything over, I realized I will be extremely busy during the Classic. So, I decided to make a goal of what I want to accomplish while I am there.<br /><br />Here is what I came up with: providing Monsanto and the general public with as much news possible, so they feel like they are actually there getting the same experience I am. So, what does this mean? I will communicate what is going on at the Commodity Classic to you through stories, blog posts, audio and pictures. I know by doing this you will be able to see and hear the highlights that I am without having to be there.<br /><br />So, I hope you enjoy my posts and the total experience as much as I know I will. You can count on posts that are full of detail and personal comments that might even make you smile a time or two!Tyne Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15953161517924421202noreply@blogger.com7