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How Do You Feel About the Proposed Child Labor Regulations?

On December 1, the American Soybean Association joined more than 60 other ag industry stakeholders in the filing of comments to the U.S. Department of Labor regarding the proposed changes to the Child Labor Regulations (RIN 1235-AA06). Since so many of our state's farmers rely on young adult workers, we are curious what you think about the proposed rule revisions. We encourage you to review information about the rule, the filed comments and then share your thoughts using the "Comment" feature under this posting.

Sharing our story

Recently I read an article about a family in Maryland going through a major ordeal because of an activist with big pockets - and incorrect information. After reading a little about them and their situation it certainly has made me more aware of how important it is to share our story about agriculture with consumers.

So, on the 7th of November I am making a new goal: I will share an agricultural fact/lesson/tidbit each day with someone who otherwise knows nothing about agriculture. I may not be able to accomplish this in person, but through all the various venues like Facebook, Blogs, etc. I think it can be done. I want to help people learn about the food they are eating and how it is produced from a farmer, not an activist. And for today:

Farm Fact: Illinois potato producers harvested 5,600 acres in 2010.

ISA Membership... the Most Valuable Holiday Gift You'll Ever Give!

When you give the gift of ISA membership, you're not only encouraging the next generation to get involved; you're also adding more voices in Springfield and Washington, D.C., helping influence key legislation that could affect your profitability and way of life. Available at a special, discounted holiday rate of $145 through January 31, 2012, a three-year ISA membership includes several valuable benefits that more than double your investment, such as $100 in biodiesel coupons, 100 units of Optimize^® 400 soybean seed treatment valued at more than $200, plus much more! 

Join now at www.ilsoy.org/membership or call (309) 663-7692.

ISA Soy Leaders: Do You Have What It Takes?

ISA has achieved many legislative successes in the past, but there is still more to do. And we need more voices united with us to accomplish these goals. That's why we've established the Soy Leaders task force! These dedicated individuals help us engage the next generation of Illinois soybean farmers by recruiting new members and affiliate members. We already have several signed up, but we're looking to fill spots in every district across the state. So, if you have a passion for protecting an industry that creates jobs and enriches lives, we encourage you to complete this online interest form today!

Membership Special Expiring Soon!

With harvest fast approaching, many of you are looking forward to working your fields. But before you get on the combine, make sure you take advantage of ISA's special discounted membership rate of $145 before it expires on September 15. That's $50 off a standard three-year membership, and it includes several valuable benefits to offset the cost of joining!

Even though membership month is coming to an end, we still need your support for those issues that are affecting Illinois soybean farmers today and in the future. If you are passionate about protecting the rights of the next generation of family farmers, we encourage you to consider becoming a member of the ISA Soy Leaders task force - just complete and submit our online interest form, and we'll contact you to answer any questions you have and discuss what your role would be.

August is here - Farm Progress Show too!

Its hard to believe summer is dwindling down. Kids have started school again, crops are changing (and I've heard reports of some corn being taken out), and days are getting shorter. All signs that summer is about over.

I'm anxious for the fall like weather - especially after the heat and humidity we've had - but I'm not exactly ready for fall. However, the end of August also means Illinois gets to host to the Farm Progress Show, an event that's always full of excitement. I'm sure this year will be no different with new equipment on display, various updates from seed dealers, and everything in between. Anyone attending is sure to find something to peak his/her interest.

Hopefully, something to peak soybean producers' interests, will be the new ISA Soy Leader Task Force being showcased at the air-conditioned Illinois Soybean Association tent during Tuesday morning's breakfast. The hour long program will no doubt be a great opportunity for anyone looking to be involved in the future of agriculture. If you are interested in attending this event, just contact ISA to be added to the count, everyone is welcome!

And in case you need more excitement added to your August, new ISA members can sign up for 3 years for $145!!!! For more information or to join today visit: http://www.ilsoy.org/_data/mediaCenter/files/1225.pdf

Hope to see you Tuesday!