If you want to hear the latest information and learn more about the issues affecting the Michigan corn industry, plan on attending the Michigan Corn Growers Association 2008 Annual Meeting. The meeting is set for Tuesday, February 5, at the Radisson Hotel in downtown Lansing. Registration, including a full breakfast will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the program to follow at 9:30 a.m.

Join your neighbors and industry leaders from across the state for a day full of information, networking, and much more. "This year's program includes information that will keep Michigan's corn growers informed of important issues and new opportunities," says Jody Pollok-Newsom, MCGA executive director. "It is important for corn growers to remain well informed on the issues that will affect them throughout the next year, so they can make more informed decisions that will benefit their farming operations."

This year, the MCGA Annual Meeting will include a legislative update, including an in-depth discussion on the Farm Bill, the Energy Bill and other legislative issues. Attendees will hear updates on the MCGA and its membership activities, the National Corn Growers Association, and the future of corn and ethanol production in the United States. Again this year, roundtable discussions will be held during lunch with the state's legislators.

"Since we are a grassroots association, focused on corn-friendly policy development, we have developed a strong, policy-driven program. We are holding the meeting in Lansing again this year, so it is easy for legislators and their staff to attend," says Scott Miller, MCGA president and a corn grower from Elsie. "During lunch, we hold roundtable discussions with legislators in order to provide MCGA members with the opportunity to speak directly with elected leaders about issues affecting their farming operation. We encourage our members to get to know their legislators and our roundtable discussions provide an additional outlet for increasing communication."

In addition to the legislative and educational session, MCGA members will elect directors to the Board for the upcoming year; conduct the annual business meeting; and recognize the state Corn Yield Contest winners, Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program verified farms, and the 2007 MCGA scholarship recipients. The 2008 Annual Meeting will conclude with an ice cream social at 3:00 p.m.

MCGA members may attend the Annual Meeting free of charge and non-MCGA members may attend at a cost of $20 per person. If you would like to become a member and vote during the business session of the Annual Meeting, please contact the MCGA office at 1-888-323-6601. Membership in the MCGA is $60 for one year, $155 for three years or $500 for a lifetime. Students may join the association at a cost of $20 for a one-year membership.

MCGA members will be mailed registration materials for the Annual Meeting. If you are not a member and would like to register for the Annual Meeting, contact the MCGA office or visit www.micorn.org for a registration form. The registration deadline is January 25.