Leaders of the National Corn Growers Association were in Washington last week to witness the historic Inauguration of Donald Trump as 45th President of the United States.
“This was a once-in-a-lifetime event for me to witness the transfer of power,” said First Vice President Kevin Skunes, who farms in Arthur, North Dakota. “It was an honor and privilege to help represent the National Corn Growers Association at the week’s events.”
Among those joining Skunes were President Wesley Spurlock, Stratford, Texas; Chairman Chip Bowling, Newburg, Maryland; and NCGA CEO Chris Novak and Executive Vice President Jon Doggett.
The week’s festivities included the swearing-in ceremony and inaugural parade, and the Bipartisan Inaugural Gala Celebrating American Agriculture, commonly known as the “Ag Ball.” The Ag Ball, which was co-sponsored by NCGA, included a corn-themed photo backdrop and commemorative cups highlighting NCGA and American Ethanol. The NCGA delegation also attended a variety of Inauguration-related events connected with their home states and the agriculture industry.
“There was never a dull moment!” said Skunes. “I enjoyed everything, but my favorite part was the Ag Ball, where I got to catch up with so many people I know in the agriculture industry. It’s also a great opportunity to meet other people working in Washington who help to move our industry forward.”
Proceeds from the Ag Ball benefited DC Central Kitchen, a nonprofit organization focused on fighting hunger and poverty.
COVID-19 Resources
NCGA is taking a series of actions to do our part to help contain the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and the economic fallout it is creating for corn farmers and our customers. Short term, this means instituting policies to protect the health and safety of our stakeholders and the broader communities we serve. Long term, we’re focused on creating solutions to help corn farmers and our customers recover from the financial impacts of this crisis.
CommonGround
CommonGround is a group of farmers connecting with consumers through conversations about science and research and personal stories about food and misinformation surrounding farming. Supported by the NCGA and state corn organizations.
SHP
The Soil Health Partnership (SHP) is a farmer-led initiative that fosters transformation in agriculture through improved soil health. Administered by NCGA the partnership has more than 220 working farms enrolled in 16 states. SHP’s mission is to utilize science and data to partner with farmers who are adopting conservation agricultural practices that improve the economic and environmental sustainability of the farm.